Latest News

Betsson Ab Interim Report April – June 2020

Published

4 years ago

July 22, 2020

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Group revenue was SEK 1,532.8 (1,277.7) million, an increase of 20% with an organic increase of 12%.
Casino revenue increased by 40%. Sportsbook revenue decreased by 34% and the sportsbook margin was 6.9% (7.8%).
Operating income (EBIT) was SEK 217.7 (196.9) million.
The EBIT margin was 14.2% (15.4%).
Operating cash flow was 343.9 (390.6) million.
SIGNIFICANT EVENTS AND OUTLOOK

Acquisition of GiG’s B2C vertical completed.
New market entries into Colorado (USA) and Kenya.
The AGM in June resolved on dividend paid to shareholders in July of SEK 2.88 per share, corresponding to SEK 393.6 million.
The daily average revenue in the third quarter 2020 until 16 July was 35% (23% organic) higher than the average daily revenue of the full third quarter 2019.

CEO COMMENT

European Gaming Congress 2024 (Warsaw, Poland)

“I am proud that Betsson has delivered all-time high revenues under the most challenging conditions.”

“The second quarter was strong and followed the positive trend from the start of the year despite market challenges during this extraordinary period. The global pandemic had immediate effect on the Company from March onwards. We responded quickly and decisively to make changes in the offer, and I am particularly pleased to see the strong performance in casino. Sports betting revenues continued to be impacted in the second quarter by the pandemic as expected, however benefited from the progressive return of football and other sporting events at the end of the quarter. Our business has remained financially robust and resilient to this impact, being both diversified and flexible.

Our key focus areas remain the health and safety of both our employees and the societies in which we operate. Early on, we proactively took actions to enable both a safe and effective working environment for the whole Group and to ensure delivery of products and services to customers with uninterrupted quality.

From March to date, we have seen many changes in habits of how people work, interact, shop and enjoy entertainment, many enabled by advancements in technology and the use of digital devices. We believe the ongoing transition from offline to online has been further accelerated as a consequence of the global lockdowns. This will benefit the strategic direction of our business both short and long term.

In the quarter, we continued executing our strategic priorities, pushing through projects in accordance with the strategic plan. Betsson successfully completed the acquisition of the B2C operation from GiG and remotely onboarded approximately 60 new colleagues. We signed an agreement with Dostal Alley Casino in Colorado to enter the high-potential US market. Initially, we will start with B2C sports betting in the state of Colorado, with the ambition to sell our proprietary sportsbook to B2B customers in the future. In this quarter, we have also taken the first steps into Kenya by partnering with local partners. After the quarter, we have taken further steps to strengthen our position in South America where Betsson has expanded its presence in the only regulated market by acquiring 70% of the Colombian based operator Colbet. This deal will give us access to the Colombian market for online sport betting and casino.

The majority of our employees have been working from home and in the true `One Betsson’ spirit, we have all continued striving towards creating the best user experiences. This has been delivered through the full dedication of the teams, enabled by the quality of both our technical infrastructure and digital content. I am enormously proud of and thankful to all our people for their continued hard work and commitment to keeping the business momentum.

During this pandemic, governments have been modelling a range of scenarios of potential impact, several governments took immediate temporary actions on our industry such as either suspending gambling both offline and online or implementing restrictions on marketing. In the beginning of the third quarter, when most countries had removed Corona-related restrictions, Sweden sadly enough implemented restrictions on online casino, without empirical evidence. This measure will unfortunately push even more consumers to play outside of the Swedish regulation.

The immediate outlook is naturally uncertain, however Betsson is in good shape and we are in it for the long term. Our proprietary technology is a strategic advantage, our diversification in markets, verticals and brands makes us resilient to market fluctuations and our financials are rock solid. This makes me optimistic about the prospects for Betsson.”

Latest News

Akne Fruits: Redefining the Future of iGaming

Published

2 days ago

January 10, 2025

Zoltan Tundik

akne-fruits:-redefining-the-future-of-igaming

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Tom Horn Gaming and AKNEYE, the innovative art initiative by AKN, have joined forces to launch a unique project, Akne Fruits. More than just a slot game, Akne Fruits fuses online casino gaming, traditional sculpture, and NFT technology to redefine the iGaming ecosystem and the future of iGaming.

A Visionary Blend of Art, Technology, and iGaming

Akne Fruits is groundbreaking in its exploration of the intersection between the physical and digital worlds in an entirely new way. Inspired by AKN’s signature AKN EYE motif, the game is accompanied by nine exclusive artefacts meticulously hand-painted by Rafayel Nersesyan, a famous Armenian artist, who also played a role in shaping the game’s visuality. Each object mirrors the fruit symbols from the game and serves as a tangible representation of AKN EYE’s iconic aesthetic.

Own and Share in the Success of Akne Fruits

Available globally, Akne Fruits invites players to connect with the game on multiple levels – enjoy it in their favourite casino, invest in its digital assets, or own their own piece of its physical representation.

Through NFTs offered via the Ortak marketplace, players can acquire game-inspired NFTs and become stakeholders in the game’s ongoing success. This experience is further expanded by the introduction of nine exclusive sculptures and their NFTs. These one-of-a-kind pieces allow players and art collectors to own a physical piece of the game and gain a significant share in its financial achievements.

Official Launch and Sell-Out at Harmony VI

The exclusive physical NFT collection of Akne Fruits made its debut at BetConstruct’s prestigious Harmony VI Meetup in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE. In addition to the game’s digital collection available on ortak.me, art lovers and gaming enthusiasts had the chance to purchase one of nine exclusive physical representations of the Akne Fruits game on the spot. The response was overwhelming, with all physical NFTs selling out within just one hour of the official announcement – a historic milestone for Tom Horn Gaming and Ortak.

Pushing the Boundaries of iGaming

The partnership between Tom Horn Gaming and Ortak is redefining how the supplier perceives the future of iGaming. Akne Fruits goes beyond being just a slot game. It delivers an immersive experience that connects players and art enthusiasts with the game and its artistic assets on different levels.

“This collaboration is a perfect synergy of two innovative companies, combining our strengths to introduce new products, redefine iGaming, and multiply the success of our innovative approach to entertainment. With Akne Fruits, we’re not just delivering a game. We’re shaping the future of how players experience iGaming,” said Ondrej Lapides, CEO of Tom Horn Gaming.

Explore the Future with Akne Fruits

Players and art lovers are invited to discover the Akne Fruits experience by visiting the Ortak NFT marketplace and becoming part of this exciting journey. Whether through owning a digital NFT or acquiring a stunning physical sculpture, the possibilities are as limitless as the creativity behind the project.

By transcending the concept of a traditional slot game and embracing new technologies, Tom Horn Gaming continues to lead the iGaming industry into new frontiers, offering unique opportunities for players to engage with games and their creators.

The post Akne Fruits: Redefining the Future of iGaming appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Latest News

SOFTSWISS Game Aggregator Certified for Peru Market

Published

2 days ago

January 10, 2025

Zoltan Tundik

softswiss-game-aggregator-certified-for-peru-market

Reading Time: 2 minutes

SOFTSWISS has successfully obtained compliance certification for the Peruvian market for its Game Aggregator, the largest content hub in the iGaming sector. This milestone solidifies the company’s position as one of the first technology providers ready to work under the country’s new regulatory framework.

As part of Peru’s revised Regulatory Framework, initiated in February 2024, all operators, platforms, game providers, and technical suppliers are required to obtain certification by 1 January 2025 to legally operate in the market. SOFTSWISS achieved this certification through GLI, an accredited testing laboratory, ensuring that its product meets all technical and legal requirements set by Peruvian authorities.

The Peruvian gambling market is among the fastest-growing and most promising in Latin America, with projections estimating a CAGR of 5.97% and a market volume of USD 420.60 million by 2029. Furthermore, smartphone penetration is expected to hit 77.78% by the same year, providing significant opportunities for the iGaming industry.

“The newly regulated framework is set to attract international gaming companies and investors, paving the way for further expansion in the iGaming sector,” said Max Trafimovich, CCO at SOFTSWISS. “We’re proud to be among the first companies to complete the necessary procedures and be fully prepared for this promising market.”

This achievement comes shortly after the SOFTSWISS Game Aggregator’s certification in Brazil, showcasing the company’s ambitious plans to expand and strengthen its leadership across the Latin American region.

Currently, the SOFTSWISS Game Aggregator boasts the largest game portfolio in the market, offering over 27,000 titles, alongside consistent 99.999% uptime and top-tier services. According to a recent Kantar survey conducted in November 2024, the product received an overall satisfaction score of 8.1 out of 10 from its clients, underscoring its reputation as a reliable and industry-leading solution.

By obtaining certification in Peru, SOFTSWISS continues to demonstrate its commitment to compliance, innovation, and delivering premium services in rapidly evolving markets.

The SOFTSWISS team will be available to discuss partnerships in Brazil and other markets at the first major iGaming event of 2025 – ICE Barcelona, taking place on 20–22 January, at stand 2G42.

About SOFTSWISS

SOFTSWISS is an international technology company with over 15 years of experience in developing innovative solutions for the iGaming industry. SOFTSWISS holds a number of gaming licences and provides comprehensive software for managing iGaming projects. The company’s product portfolio includes the Online Casino Platform, the Game Aggregator with over 23,500 casino games, the Affilka Affiliate Platform, the Sportsbook Software and the Jackpot Aggregator. In 2013, SOFTSWISS revolutionised the industry by introducing the world’s first Bitcoin-optimised online casino solution. The expert team, based in Malta, Poland, and Georgia, counts over 2,000 employees.

The post SOFTSWISS Game Aggregator Certified for Peru Market appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

1/ST

New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing and 1/ST Unveil Partnership to Elevate Global Thoroughbred Racing

Published

2 days ago

January 10, 2025

GamingAmericas.com

new-zealand-thoroughbred-racing-and-1/st-unveil-partnership-to-elevate-global-thoroughbred-racing

New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) is excited to announce a transformative partnership with 1/ST, the premier North American Thoroughbred racing, gaming and entertainment company. Known for its iconic venues, including Santa Anita Park (California) and Gulfstream Park (Florida), 1/ST is a leader in modernizing horse racing by blending live racing with innovative gaming, hospitality and lifestyle experiences.

As leaders of world-class racing, hospitality and entertainment events, 1/ST is also committed to advancing racing’s global profile through cutting-edge technology and international collaboration. This partnership brings a unique opportunity to connect three prestigious racedays: Auckland Thoroughbred Racing’s Champions Day (March 8 – featuring The G1 Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes, named after legendary 1987 Australian Horse of The Year Champion and NZ Hall of Famer, Bonecrusher) alongside 1/ST’s Pegasus World Cup (January 25) and California Crown (September 27).

This collaboration will introduce “Golden Ticket” pathways, offering the winning horses direct entry into marquee races including:

From the Pegasus World Cup (25 January 2025) to Champions Day (8 March 2025):

The US$500,000 Group 2 Pegasus World Cup Filly & Mare Turf (1600m) winner earns entry to the NZ$600,000 Group 1 World Pool New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes (1600m).
The US$1,000,000 Group 1 Pegasus World Cup Turf (1800m) winner gains entry to the NZ$1,000,000 Group 1 Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes (2000m).

From Champions Day (8 March 2025) to California Crown (27 September 2025):

The NZ$500,000 Rich Hill Stud Champion Middle Distance Series winner secures a Golden Ticket to the US$750,000 Group 1 California Crown John Henry Turf (2000m).
The NZ$500,000 Sport Nation Champion Sprint Series winner earns entry to the US$750,000 Group 2 California Crown US$750,000 Eddie D Turf Sprint (1300m).

To further enhance the partnership, NZTR and 1/ST will cover travel and freight costs for Golden Ticket-winning horses travelling internationally to compete in the respective countries.

“This partnership marks an exciting milestone in showcasing New Zealand racing on the world stage,” commented Chief Operating Officer of NZTR, Darin Balcombe. “The Golden Ticket concept creates a unique pathway for international competition, enriching the experience for racing participants and fans alike.”

Aidan Butler, President of 1/ST, added: “This partnership with NZTR exemplifies our commitment to elevating Thoroughbred racing globally. By linking these iconic racedays and supporting international competition, we’re looking to drive innovation, collaboration and global excitement in the sport.”

Lachlan Fitt, Deputy CEO of Entain Australia and New Zealand, operators of the NZ TAB, also welcomed the announcement:

“Congratulations to NZTR and 1/ST on reaching this exciting outcome. The partnership will continue the opportunity for NZ racing to be showcased to racing fans globally and is another new pathway for NZ racing participants to consider. And through our Trackside and Sport Nation media brands, we look forward to bringing the best of US racing to our wagering customers in NZ.”

This partnership paves the way for significant growth in Thoroughbred racing across both regions, with both NZTR and 1/ST excited to build on this promising foundation moving forward.

For more information about the partnership and Golden Ticket races, contact NZTR’s Head Handicapper Bruce Sherwin by emailing [email protected].

The post New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing and 1/ST Unveil Partnership to Elevate Global Thoroughbred Racing appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.