Premier Punt merges DFS with sportsbook in new app

Scottish daily fantasy sports (DFS) operator Premier Punt has rolled out the first phase of its new product by combining fantasy sports and sportsbook betting in the same mobile application.

Users can select their fantasy team and then have the option to place traditional sports bets on their team.

Premier Punt already holds a pool betting licence for its fantasy product but was also recently awarded a sportsbook licence from the UK Gambling Commission, enabling it to develop the new offering.

The app, developed in partnership with Offshore Custom Software Solutions, is now available to download to iOS and Android devices.

John Gordon, chief executive of Premier Punt, said: “We are delighted to be unveiling our unique single wallet daily fantasy sportsbook (DFS-B) app.

“The combination wallet will help our business to increase the player value significantly while at the same time offering convenience to players that like to play both fantasy and wager on sports.

“We are convinced that this will change the Fantasy Sports and Sports Betting industry in UK and Europe.”

Gordon added that although he believes the merging of DFS and sports wagering will be the future of this industry, he does not expect major operators in the DFS to follow suit.

“The major players in the US have to make sure they are still considered a game of skill, so it makes sense for them to stay away from any form of gambling,” he said.

“Premier Punt operates in a mature gambling market and the reality is that in such a market the value of DFS players is too low.

“We think that with our new business model we will be equipped to be successful in this market.”