PokerStars About to Change Rake Method

It seems that PokerStars [3] is about to follow major poker providers like PartyPoker and iPoker, and change their rake calculation method from dealt rake to weighted contributed rake method. The news is unofficial yet.PokerStars has sent out the following email to its partners in the last 24 hours:

[4]

"On January 1, 2012, we will be changing the way we calculate revenue share for affiliates. When calculating revenue for commission purposes, instead of rake being split between all players dealt into the hand, rake will now be calculated based on the players who contribute to the pot. This has been updated in the Terms and Conditions, which you can review at: https://www.pokerstarspartners.com/public/about/termsAndConditions.html [5]"

According to the present rake calculation method, all players who are dealt a hand share the rake. This system favours tight multi-table regulars. According to the new system, rake would be calculated based on the players who contribute to the pot, which favours players with a loose-aggressive style.

Since the email is only telling affiliates that the system changes on their part, it is also obvious that players will be subjected to the change, as such revenue calculations always use the same method as player's rake is calculated. The change will affect PokerStars' VIP system as well, VPP points will be awarded slightly differently .

The news is unofficial however, until now PokerStars couldn't confirm nor confute the information that was also posted on major poker forums. PokerStars Steve could only post the following:

"Plans do sometimes change. Unfortunately it will be at least a few more days before changes are announced"

We'll be back with more information as the change becomes official.