Google is to allow gambling adverts in its search results in the UK, due to a local change of rules. According to the Financial Times, this is the first time Google has included gambling ads in its search results anywhere in the world since a self-imposed moratorium in 2004.
The FT reported that analysts are estimating this could net Google an additional £100 million (US$173 million/€129 million) annually. The business has a 70% share of the paid search advertising market in the UK.
The lifting of the ban on advertising online gambling follows the UK Gambling Act allowing TV adverts for casinos and bingo. It came into play in September 2007.