As the economic crisis persists in the United States, many companies are looking to prevent foreclosure and bypass financial struggles by creating mergers with complimentary companies within their respective industries. As major financial companies such as Merrill Lynch lead the way, online corporations are not far behind in creating partnerships that not only further expose dual advertising, but also help with cost cutting for contributory participants.

This week has seen a number of deals being made, not the least of which is an exclusive television contract struck between World Poker Tour Enterprises and Full Tilt Poker.net. The contract creates an alliance that joins television poker and the world of online poker in an innovative measure to benefit both companies. WPT has reported to the media that the deal marks the first of its kind between the two mediums, creating a model for future relationships for the sports and gambling television industries, as well as increased exposure for the World Series of Poker. The deal gives Full Tilt Poker principal commercial rights, as well as exclusive advertising for the online casino community in addition to title sponsorship for the poker events themselves. The WPT episodes are set to air on Fox Sports Net in the US, and all advertising bonuses apply to those Season VII episodes set to air in Mexico, as well.

Steve Lipscomb, the founder of the World Poker Tour Enterprises, as well as acting president and CEO, had the following to say on the agreement: "We are delighted to be in partnership with Full Tilt Poker.net and bring together two very strong brands with proven global reach and loyal networks of poker fans. With WPT's incredible brand value and TV distribution through FSN, coupled with Full Tilt Poker.net's massive online following, this partnership opens more channels to reach new fans and continue feeding the appetite for new poker content."