Hard Rock International has released the following statement denying the report from Star Entertainment Group regarding potential transactions between the companies.

“Hard Rock International would like to address recent reports regarding a proposed purchase of the Star Entertainment Group Limited (Star) in Australia. We want to make it clear that Hard Rock International is not involved in, nor has it authorized, any discussions, activities or negotiations on its behalf in connection with a proposed bid for Star. Hard Rock International has similarly not authorized the use of the Hard Rock brand in connection with any proposed bid for Star by any third party.

“Our brand is built on a legacy of integrity, excellence, and a commitment to our guests, partners, and team members worldwide. Any misuse of the Hard Rock name in unauthorized business dealings is taken very seriously. We are currently investigating this matter and will pursue all necessary legal actions to protect our brand and reputation.

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“We urge stakeholders and the public to rely only on official communications from Hard Rock International for accurate information regarding our business activities and partnerships.”

Entain, the global sports betting and gaming group, announced the conclusion of a strategic review by the Board’s Capital Allocation Committee (CapCo) of Entain’s portfolio of markets, brands and verticals, which commenced in January 2024.

With the objective of maximising shareholder value and reflecting the operational progress of the business, the conclusions of the review are:

• Entain has the appropriate portfolio of diversified strategic assets, brands, capabilities and geographic footprint to ensure it is well positioned to deliver high quality long term growth.
• There remains significant upside by focusing on delivery of the Group’s strategy of returning to organic revenue growth, expanding margins and winning in the US.
• Entain’s balance sheet and leverage position is robust and has been strengthened by the recent extension of Entain’s RCF and term loan repricing and add-ons.
• Crystalbet, the leading gaming brand in Georgia, is non-core to the Group. As such, strategic alternatives for this business will be considered, including interest already received from potential acquirers.

As part of this review, the CapCo considered developments in Entain’s key markets and the operational progress made towards its strategic objectives including:

• Brazil returning to strong double-digit revenue growth during Q2, with actions taken to improve customer acquisition and retention accelerating the performance.
• The levelling of the regulatory playing field in the UK with the new voluntary industry code on customer safer gambling checks and implementation of industry wide slots limits from September, together with improving customer offer, support expectation of returning to growth later this year.
• Delivery of the product roadmap for BetMGM is progressing well, including recently launched MLB and NBA sports betting markets supported by Angstrom’s unique capabilities, particularly in parlay products.
• On 16 May 2024, the Nevada Gaming Commission unanimously approved the applications of Entain and certain of its subsidiaries without limitation.
• Entain CEE is performing well and the outlook for online casino liberalisation in Poland is increasingly encouraging.
• Project Romer is on track to deliver targeted cost savings through simplifying Entain’s operations and improving efficiency.

Following the review, the CapCo will continue to regularly review strategic progress and consider options to maximise shareholder value, including ongoing oversight of all significant aspects of capital commitments.

Barry Gibson, Chairman of Entain, said: “I am delighted that the Capital Allocation Committee has concluded its strategic review of our portfolio. Whilst we still have more work to do to improve our operational performance, the Board is pleased with the progress Entain is making so far in 2024 in line with our strategy. The Group has the core strengths, brands and products to be competitive across its markets and continues to be a global leader in betting and gaming. The Board looks forward to updating the market further on its progress at the interim results in August.”

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