Sportingbet, the UK online gambling group has issued a trading update today stating that is will be releasing its Q4 results for the period ending 31st July on 5th October 2011. The company chose not to comment on the speculation of talks between itself and Ladbrokes.

The management report added: "As expected, the trends experienced during the previous nine months of the year have continued into the final quarter,

"Challenging economic conditions in some of our European markets have resulted in an increased focus on cost control. Our Australian and Emerging Markets businesses continue to demonstrate the benefits of the Group's geographic diversity with resilient performances throughout the year.

"The company's proposed acquisition of Centrebet is expected to complete at the end of August 2011, with Centrebet shareholders due to vote on the acquisition on 17 August. The acquisition is in line with the company's strategy of increasing the proportion of its business derived from regulated markets.

"The Group continues to monitor regulatory developments closely and expects to take advantage as markets move towards implementing regulation.

"The Directors remain confident of the outcome for the financial year just ended."