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the United States Supreme Court has upheld a regulation that might enable states throughout the nation to legalise betting on sports.
It endorsed a 2014 state regulation in New Jersey which allows sports betting in casinos and at horse race tracks.
Plenty of main US sports our bodies had opposed the transfer, together with the National Basketball Association and Major League Baseball.
The National Collegiate Athletic Association mentioned it was a risk to the "integrity of athletic competitors".
However, Justice Samuel Alito wrote on behalf of the Supreme Court: "The legalisation of sports playing requires a necessary coverage alternative, however the alternative isn't ours to make.
"Congress can regulate sports playing instantly, but when it elects not to take action, every state is free to behave by itself."
Shares in UK-based bookmakers jumped on the ruling. Paddy Power Betfair's share value rose 10.5%, 888 Holdings jumped 14%, William Hill's inventory gained 9.4% and GVC Holdings rallied 6%.
The Supreme Court determination strikes down a 1992 federal regulation that prohibited sports betting in most states.
It is barely allowed in states reminiscent of Nevada, dwelling to Las Vegas.