PokerStars has combined player pools in Michigan and New Jersey. Because of the move, fans from both states now have “more choice, more tournaments, more players and bigger prizes” as PokerStars becomes the first online poker operator to announce shared liquidity in these states.
The combination took place on January 1. PokerStars US Managing Director Severin Rasset stated: “Michigan and New Jersey joining forces is great news for our players in these two states, and poker, more generally, as it promises a better experience and even more value, all with the confidence provided by a trusted, licensed operator.”
“Our community will experience more breadth and depth of games, more tournaments with bigger prizes to win, amped-up promotions, and more choice. To kick start, we are offering generous guarantees on our debut multi-state tournaments that will no doubt provide lots of value for those who take to the tables,” he added.
The Michigan Gaming Control Board granted the firm approval on December 20, and New Jersey granted PokerStars permission on December 23. “We worked closely with the regulators of New Jersey and Michigan, and we hope that more will follow this great example,” noted Rasset.
With PokerStars US launching shared liquidity, WSOP will lose its unique position as the only operator to connect networks across state lines. While PokerStars will be the second operator to launch interstate online poker in the US, it will be the first to form a network involving Michigan.
As well as the benefits that come from bringing together players from Michigan and New Jersey on a shared platform, players can also enjoy an “easy-to-use lobby” that offers fast withdrawals and same-day pay-outs, “all backed by PokerStars’ security and gaming integrity.”
Back in December, the company announced its schedule for the 2023 European Poker Tour season, which includes the return of many locations and two brand-new stops on the tour. The 2023 European Poker Tour kicks off in February with EPT Paris at the Hyatt Regency Paris Etoile, in partnership with Le Club Barrière Paris from February 15 to 26.
