Company information
Betfair was launched in 2000, and has since developed into one of the world's largest online betting exchanges. The company has physical addresses in the UK, Malta and Australia, and operating licenses with the UK gambling commission, the Malta LGA and the Tasmanian gambling commission; addresses and licences are listed on the regulatory information page.
On the corporate site you can find more company information and background; the key data page lists the company's financial details.
Software
The casino, first launched in 2005, uses Chartwell software. They have apparently signed a new license agreement with Playtech, but the new casino software hasn't been launched yet.
Games
Aside from the usual handful of Chartwell also-rans, the casino includes the Betfair unique "Zero Lounge": four games - blackjack, baccarat, roulette and video poker - which have full 100% player returns.
Customer service
Telephone and email support is adequate. I have, however, tried and failed to get any comment from Betfair about the above-mentioned playtech software deal.
UK freephone number: 0844 871 0000
International number: +44 (0)208 834 8060
Reliability
A while back there were a couple of bonus funds confiscation issues that I wasn't altogether happy about. However, I've played at Betfair myself a lot, and received a lot of bonuses without any problem.
You cannot clear Betfair bonus wagering requirements using the Zero Lounge games. In addition to which, Betfair does not like the use of autoclick robot programmes whether or not bonuses are in the mix - see the terms & conditions:
All wagers must be placed through the user interface provided on the Casino. Any wagering through other
means, including the use of a "robot" player, is strictly forbidden without the express consent of Betfair.
...so I'd seriously advise against using them. As long as you don't touch the Zero games when you've got a pending bonus and you don't use autoclick programmes, you should be fine.
Overall rating
I rate Betfair overall at seven and a half out of ten.
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