PokerStars has become the first licensed online casino and poker operator under the Czech Republic’s new gaming regulation following the approval of Amaya Inc. by the Czech State Supervision of Gambling and Lotteries Department. Amaya was awarded the Live Games license on 28 January and is set to launch on PokerStars.cz in the coming days.

PokerStars will offer Czech players a wide range of poker games and tournament formats across its shared global liquidity, as well as popular multiplayer casino games Classic Blackjack, Premium Blackjack, European Roulette and Double Ball Roulette, on desktop (Windows and Mac) and mobile (iOS and Android).

The launch follows new online gaming regulation which came into effect from 1 January in the Czech Republic. Amaya is a leading proponent of online gaming regulation and PokerStars is the most licensed online gaming brand, now holding licenses or related operating approvals in 17 jurisdictions. Amaya has applied for a license to offer sports betting through BetStars in the Czech Republic and also expects to seek appropriate approval to expand its offering of online casino games on PokerStars Casino in due course.

“We are very proud to be the first online casino and poker operator to be awarded a license and support the newly regulated Czech market,” said Guy Templer, Chief Operating Officer. “This underscores our commitment to supporting local regulations and obtaining local licenses wherever possible.”

PokerStars maintains the highest levels of player fund protection in the industry and segregates Czech player funds under trust agreements held separately from operating funds, as is done in all markets where PokerStars offers its services.