PlayAGS, Incorporated, a global gaming supplier of high-performing slot, table, and interactive products, today announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to be acquired by affiliates of Brightstar Capital Partners (“Brightstar”), a middle market private equity firm focused on investing in industrial, manufacturing, and services businesses.

The Company’s Board of Directors has unanimously approved, and recommended that the Company’s stockholders approve, the agreement. AGS shareholders will receive $12.50 per share in cash. The per share purchase price represents a 41% premium to the Company’s volume-weighted average share price over the last 90 days and a 40% premium to AGS’ closing price on May 8, 2024.

AGS is a global company focused on creating a diverse mix of entertaining gaming experiences for every kind of player. Powered by high-performing slot products, an expansive table products portfolio, and highly rated online casino content, the Company believes it offers an unmatched value proposition for its casino partners.

“We are very pleased to reach this agreement, which we believe provides our stockholders with compelling, certain cash value. Joining forces with Brightstar represents an exciting new chapter for AGS and our mission to provide exceptional gaming solutions for our operator partners,” said David Lopez, CEO & President of AGS. “With Brightstar’s resources and strategic guidance, we believe AGS will be well-positioned to make targeted investments in R&D, top talent, operations, and industry-leading innovation, which should accelerate our global footprint.”

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“We look forward to working with David and the AGS team to capitalize on opportunities by taking a long-term approach to creating value,” said Andrew Weinberg, Founder & CEO of Brightstar. “AGS has a strong pipeline of new products, and we believe the Company’s innovative approach to game development provides significant potential for continued growth.”

“We have been impressed by AGS’ award-winning products, differentiated culture, and outstanding reputation in this expanding industry,” said Roger Bulloch, Partner at Brightstar. “We trust that partnering with AGS and executing on our shared vision can accelerate the Company’s ability to create even greater value for its customers and players around the world.”

Macquarie Capital is serving as financial advisor and Cooley LLP is serving as legal counsel to AGS. Jefferies LLC is serving as lead financial advisor to Brightstar. Barclays and Citizens JMP Securities are also serving as financial advisors to Brightstar. Kirkland & Ellis LLP is serving as legal counsel to Brightstar.

First Quarter 2024 Financial Results

In light of the proposed transaction, AGS has canceled its previously announced conference call to discuss its first quarter 2024 financial results, which had been scheduled for Thursday, May 9, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. EDT. Additionally, AGS will not be issuing a quarterly earnings release. The Company expects to file its 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2024 with the SEC later today.

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Timing and Approvals

The proposed transaction, which is expected to close in the second half of 2025 is subject to customary closing conditions, including the receipt of regulatory approvals and approval by a majority of AGS stockholders. Upon completion of the transaction, AGS will become a privately held company and shares of AGS common stock will no longer be listed on any public market.

Caesars becomes the first operator to bring fan-favorite slot game to ‘The Garden State’ both in-person and online

Caesars Entertainment Incorporated (NASDAQ: CZR) (Caesars) and PlayAGS Incorporated (NYSE: AGS) today celebrated the exclusive and first cross-platform launch of the thrilling new slot game Rakin’ Bacon Odyssey in New Jersey.

To commemorate the launch, well-known online gaming influencer Francine Maric – better known as ‘Lady Luck HQ’ – was on hand at Caesars Atlantic City alongside Caesars representatives to pull the lever for the ceremonial first spin unveiling the new slot now exclusively live in New Jersey for the first time on Caesars Palace Online Casino and at Caesars Atlantic City, Tropicana Atlantic City and Harrah’s Atlantic City.

“The simultaneous launch of Rakin’ Bacon Odyssey on Caesars Palace Online Casino and at our world-class destinations in Atlantic City is an example of the exciting omni-channel experience we can bring to our players,” the Senior Vice-President and Chief iGaming Officer for Caesars Digital, Matthew Sunderland, said. “We’ve seen how popular this game is in other jurisdictions, and we’re confident our casino players and guests in New Jersey will enjoy it. Thank you to our great partners at AGS for this exclusive launch and to ‘Lady Luck HQ’ for coming out to celebrate with us.”

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‘Lady Luck HQ’ is a gambling content creator who produces unique gaming-centric content across YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. The innovative approach to her content has led to her channels commanding the single largest online presence in gaming as the most daily viewed gambling influencer in the world.

AGS’ Rakin’ Bacon Odyssey is a brand extension of the player-favorite slot game Rakin’ Bacon, which has quickly become a fan-favorite on casino floors in select jurisdictions across North America. Its gameplay features ‘Cornsquealius’, a loveable pig cartoon adorned in a Caesar-esque laurel and white robe. The slot shines on casino floors through the popular Spectra49 cabinet by AGS with unique reel configurations of 3×5 that expand up to 6×5 during free spins with a staggering 7,776 ways to win.

In celebration of this launch, Caesars Digital is offering users 21 and older the chance to take advantage of its first omni-channel promotions linked to a new slot with entry available both in-person at Caesars destinations in Atlantic City and via the Caesars Palace Online Casino app.

“This exclusive launch illustrates the connection we’re continuing to build between our world-class destinations and our online casino platforms,” the Senior Vice-President and General Manager of Caesars Atlantic City, Karen Worman, said. “That connection is something we’re uniquely positioned to deliver to our customers and we look forward to celebrating more of these moments that bring best-in-class offerings to life across the in-person and digital experience.”

“Launching Rakin’ Bacon Odyssey with Caesars expands the stardom of our ‘golden pig’ and reflects our commitment to offering the same high-quality gaming experience to online players,” the Vice-President of Interactive for AGS, Zoe Ebling, said. “This collaboration not only aligns with our strategic vision but also showcases our ability to execute complex, omni-channel launches that set industry standards. We’re elevating the gaming experience across platforms, demonstrating our leadership in the industry and our dedication to excellence. This launch marks a significant step in delivering exceptional entertainment to players everywhere.”

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Caesars Palace Online Casino launched in July of 2023 as the crown jewel of Caesars’ iGaming portfolio alongside Caesars Sportsbook & Casino, Tropicana Online Casino, Harrah’s Online Casino and WSOP. com. Those 21 and older in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan and West Virginia can now download the Caesars Palace Online Casino app on iOS and Android or visit CaesarsPalaceOnline. com to enjoy a fully immersive online casino experience with exclusive games and a true omni-channel experience complete with promotions provided by the largest casino-entertainment company in North America.

Caesars is a trailblazer in responsible gaming and remains committed to responsible gaming education and providing a safe and responsible digital experience for Caesars Palace Online Casino users. The company enforces an enhanced 21+ gaming policy that ensures Caesars Rewards accounts are only available to individuals 21 and older, where permitted by law, and Caesars Digital online platforms have tools in place to encourage responsible play.

For real-time updates on new content offerings and to join the empire of like-minded Caesars, players can engage with the Caesars Palace Online Casino social handles on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram and Facebook. Players can follow Rakin’ Bacon and the adventures of its lovable pig on Instagram and TikTok at @ Rakin.Bacon.