Playtech challenges Evolution over alleged illegal gambling operations

Gambling technology company Playtech on Tuesday pushed back against allegations of a smear campaign from rival Evolution, accusing the company of trying to distract from its own business practices.

The suggestion that its subsidiary engaged in a smear campaign is "wholly untrue and is designed to distract from serious questions about Evolution's business practices," Playtech said in a statement.

The company said it had commissioned an independent firm to investigate Evolution following "credible and repeated concerns" from operators, suppliers and regulators.

According to Playtech, the investigation focused on Evolution's alleged activities in prohibited and sanctioned markets and its supply to unlicensed operators in regulated markets.

Playtech stated that a report from the investigation "clearly evidences that Evolution's business practices undermine lawful and compliant gambling operations."

The company added that such conduct damages trust in the credibility of the entire industry and also ultimately impacts government tax collection.

Playtech said it stands by the decision to commission the report and welcomes a court examination of its findings.