New Management Takes Over eCogra

The online gambling industry has a third party accreditation organization called eCOGRA. It not only champions player protection but also ensures that casino software and operators are up to standard. eCOGRA was founded by the three heavy weights within the industry namely Microgaming, 888 and Bwin. One of the stand-out features of eCOGRA it is audited regularly further enhancing its transparency.

eCOGRA’s management has bought it out spearheaded by Andrew Beveridge its chief executive. As a result of this buy-out eCOGRA’s ownership structure will change and won’t include casino software providers, internet casinos or any other organization within the industry anymore. This delineates eCogra’s independence going forward.

The founding members noted that the time was ripe to move on and decided to sever former ties, thus enabling eCOGRA to forge new tactical and policy guidelines in future. Before the buy-out was concluded it stated that the independent directors would stay on as members of the new board, it would be chaired by Michael Hirst.

Additional directors are Bill Henbrey, Bill Galston and Frank Catania. Beveridge, as Chief Executive Officer stays on as board member. Hirst said eCOGRA’s main aim is to constantly improve the trustworthiness of the industry, to ensure proper player protection and to employ up to date policies as the casino industry progresses. He added, “These principles encapsulates eCOGRA’s main objective in a very competitive commercial environment.”

Beveridge also outlined eCogra’s future role. He said eCOGRA’s overall operational make-up will remain the same. Player dispute arbitration via the Fair Gaming Advocate would carry on. The TGTR outcomes-based software monitoring system will be broadened, in particular with non-accredited parties. The appraisal of internet casinos for awarding the Safe and Fair seal and the ensuing review as well as monitoring activity stays in place. Specialized business services and consulting remains key components pertaining to operators.

With regard to the bigger picture, Beveridge said the industry is evolving at an increasingly rapid rate and eCOGRA aims to stay abreast with any new developments. There is a leaning toward national or state regulatory regimes across the globe.  “eCOGRA within the foreseeable future aims to become a pivotal role player when it comes to the implementation of new gambling policies, professional advice and support to current and budding jurisdictions.”