Playtech announced in June that it is splashing out £460m to buy the London-headquartered firm, with the deal still awaiting regulatory approval from the UK Financial Conduct Authority. Analysts have expressed concerns at the length of the time that the Plus500 deal, which was meant to be wrapped up by the end of September, is taking to close. Some have speculated that the Central Bank's intervention may influence the FCA's view on the Plus500 deal, although this is unlikely. Either way, the Punt will monitor any developments with great interest. ISME trolls English rugby Sometimes the Punt thinks that Mark Fielding writes just for the Punt's own benefit. The Irish Small and Medium Enterprises Association boss, is well-known for his often entertaining, often baffling press releases. Subject lines of emails from Fielding in the last week alone have ranged from 'High business costs must be addressed in Budget 2016' to 'My porridge was ruined this morning'.