Betclic planning exit from Russian online gambling market?

Recent moves by Russian prosecutors to blacklist and ISP-block a number of online gambling companies, triggering speculation that a crackdown is planned by the authorities, may be the reason behind the decision by French online gambling group Betclic to emulate Betfair in preparing to depart the Russian market.

Affiliate marketers have reported being briefed by Betclic on its intention to halt new player signups and Russian marketing efforts, although for now at least existing players will be supported.

Following so closely on the heels of Betclic’s recent exit from the Belgian market after Euro 600,000 of its funds were frozen by the BGC (see previous reports), abandoning the Russian market could dent revenues significantly.

Although it has confirmed its Russian decision, Betclic has not commented further on its reasons for cutting back in the region.