bwin Interactive Entertainment Group responds to the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act

On 30 September 2006 the US Congress passed the "SAFE Port Act" which also contained certain provisions known as the "Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006" (the "Act") that will affect the processing of payments between U.S. customers and online gaming companies, including bwin. The legislation is expected to be signed into law by President Bush within the next two weeks.

As the leading online gaming company in Europe, bwin generates 73 percent of its gross gaming revenues on the European market, as against 22 percent on the U.S. market. bwin does not currently offer any sports betting products to U.S. residents. The company aims to provide fair and responsible entertainment, and has continually focused on product and geographical diversification.

bwin is currently in the process of obtaining further advice with the objective of fully understanding the applicability and impact of the Act to the group's U.S. business. The company will adapt its business strategy accordingly so as to minimize any adverse effects. The board notes, however, that the Act, if signed into law, is likely to have a material adverse effect on the group's U.S. business.

bwin's non-US customers are not affected by the legislation.

Further announcements will be made in due course.