FTSE gambling group accused of hiring ex-Mossad agents for ‘smear campaign’

Core Viewpoint - Playtech is accused of conducting a smear campaign against its competitor Evolution by hiring Black Cube, an Israeli intelligence firm, to investigate alleged illegal activities of Evolution in banned markets [1][3]. Group 1: Allegations and Investigations - Playtech allegedly paid £1.8 million to Black Cube for a report that utilized undercover methods, including secret recordings and false identities [2]. - The report accused Evolution of operating in illegal markets, including Iran, Sudan, Syria, and Hong Kong, and was submitted to New Jersey gambling regulators in 2021 [4]. Group 2: Legal and Financial Implications - Evolution is pursuing a defamation lawsuit against Playtech and Black Cube, claiming the report contains "highly inflammatory and knowingly false" allegations that have caused "multi-billion dollar damage" to its business [5][6]. - Playtech's shares fell by as much as 39% before closing down 22% following the allegations [3]. Group 3: Company Responses - Playtech has defended its actions, stating that the claims of a smear campaign are "wholly untrue" and intended to distract from serious questions regarding Evolution's business practices [7][8]. - Playtech asserts that it commissioned the investigation due to credible concerns raised by operators, suppliers, and regulators about Evolution's activities in prohibited markets [8].