FTSE 250 company 888 has been granted licence to operate its online betting products in the US state of Nevada.

The online gambling provider was given the green light as an interactive gaming service provider by the Nevada Gaming Commission in Las Vegas on Thursday.

"This is an historic moment for 888," said Chief Executive Officer Brian Mattingley.

"This is the first time a company uniquely providing online gaming has been licensed by any US jurisdiction."

The approval was expected after the state gaming control board voted to recommend the grant earlier this month to the company, which operates casino, poker and bingo games.

888 has already signed a deal with Las Vegas operator Treasure Island to launch online poker in Nevada.

Internet betting in the US was explicitly barred by Congress in 2006, but the restrictions are set to loosen with federal legislation to be introduced in the spring.

RD

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