The Global Popularity of Poker
 

Poker is a game which has achieved worldwide popularity. Technological advancements such as the internet has allowed poker to spread around the globe. A number of tournaments have been announced on tv, and this has also played a factor in the rising popularity of the game. More than ever before, people are playing poker on their computers. While some of these players play for as little as 2 cents, others play for more than £ 7,000. Poker is one of the most lucrative online industries in the world.
 

The legal aspects of poker in different countries
 

Despite the fame of poker, large competitions are currently not allowed to be hosted in places like the United States. Because of this, large competitions are held in either Europe or other countries. Poker is a game which has an appeal with many people. When playing the game online you can be anonymous and learn poker form the comfort of your own home. Poker is extremely popular in places like Denmark, where tournaments are regularly held. Statistics on book sales show that books related to poker are best sellers in many countries.
 

Poker tournaments
 

Many online poker companies are holding huge tournaments in which professional poker players battle against each other. Many players have become overnight celebrities, amassing a large fortune in a short period of time. An example of this would be Chris Moneymaker. Millions of people have begun betting money on poker tournaments via the internet. In less than one day, a record £ 191 million was made in bets on online websites. The industry continues to increase in revenues each month. While many may see poker as a game of chance, even investors want a piece of the action. Members of the London Stock Exchange have started making wagers in the last few years.
 

US laws which are against poker
 

While countries such as the United Kingdom are greatly embracing the game of poker, the US Justice Department has continued to outlaw poker via the telephone or the internet. Services such as Paypal now block earnings from many gaming related sites in the US. These laws are arguably useless, since American citizens will simply log onto to websites based out of foreign countries which allow poker or other forms of gambling.
 

Why poker laws are difficult to enforce
 

US laws have done little to halt the increasing revenues from online poker, which is estimated to be a multi billion dollar industry. Most experts believe that the US will eventually be forced to legalize the game, especially if online poker companies attempt to lobby the Justice Department. While this remains to be seen, one thing which is certain is that the popularity of poker will not diminish any time soon.