Connect with us

Latest News

LeoVegas AB Q1: Quarterly report 1 January – 31 March 2021

Published

on

Reading Time: 4 minutes

 

“A good start to the year and increased focus on sports”
Gustaf Hagman, Group CEO

first quarter 2021: 1 january–31 march        

  • Revenue increased by 8% to EUR 96.7 m (89.4). Organic growth in local currencies was 8%.
  • Organic growth when excluding Germany was 19%.
  • Adjusted EBITDA was EUR 10.9 m (9.0), corresponding to an adjusted EBITDA margin of 11.3% (10.0%). Reported EBITDA was EUR 10.4 m (9.0).
  • The number of depositing customers was 462,386 (413,269), an increase of 12%.
  • Adjusted earnings per share were EUR 0.07 (0.06).

events during the quarter

  • LeoVegas acquired Expekt from Betclic Group for a total purchase price of EUR 5 m. Expekt is one of the most well-known sports betting brands in Sweden and the Nordic markets, and strengthens LeoVegas’ brand portfolio ahead of the intensive sport event years in 2021 and 2022. The acquisition of Expekt is expected to be completed in May 2021.
  • LeoVegas’ shares were taken up for trading in USD on OTCQX Markets in the USA. This is a way for the company to meet a steadily growing interest from US investors.
  • Via LeoVentures, LeoVegas invested EUR 1.1 m for 25% of the shares in SharedPlay, a company that makes it possible for players to share their gaming experiences with others through the industry’s first multiplayer solution.

Events after the end of the quarter

  • Preliminary revenue in April amounted to EUR 32.7 m (37.5), representing negative growth of 13%. Excluding Germany, revenue grew 4%.
  • The Royal Panda brand has been migrated to the Group’s proprietary technical platform, Rhino. All of the Group’s wholly owned brands are now run on the Rhino platform.
  • LeoVegas has started its own game studio, Blue Guru Games, to develop new and innovative games. The studio will develop exclusive games for LeoVegas as well as for other operators. The first games will be released in late 2021.
  • LeoVegas was issued a sanction fee of SEK 2 m by the Swedish Gambling Authority. The company intends to appeal the decision.

 

COMMENT FROM GUSTAF HAGMAN – GROUP CEO

FIRST QUARTER
We are pleased with the start of the year and increased our revenue by 8% during the first quarter. Excluding Germany, which has been affected by new restrictions related to the upcoming regulation, revenue increased by 19%. Our growth has been driven mainly by our loyal customer base, which reached a new record level during the period. We have maintained a high pace of investment, and despite this we achieved adjusted EBITDA growth of 22%, driven by our scalability and good cost control.

ACQUISITION OF EXPEKT – increased FOCUS ON SPORTS BETTING
During the first quarter we acquired the well-known sports betting brand Expekt. The acquisition gives us one more leg to grow on and complements the Group’s brand portfolio and product offering in a strategically good way. We are looking forward to Expekt once again becoming a leading sports betting brand in Sweden and thereafter also in other markets. The acquisition is expected to be completed in May in connection with our migration of the brand to our own technical platform. The timing of the acquisition is perfect as we are now facing two years filled with major sports events, and we plan to launch Expekt well in advance of the UEFA European Football Championship, which starts in June.

MarKETS
During the first quarter we saw the full effect of the changes taking place in the German market. Operators in the market are acting differently with respect to implementing the new restrictions, which unfortunately has led to a skewed competitive situation. The assessment is that up to 70%-80% of the German market for casino has temporarily been shifted over to operators that have chosen to not adapt to the coming market regulation. Our hope is that this will soon be sorted out by the German authorities, which is a prerequisite for the licence system’s success, with a high level of channelisation and consumer protection. Germany generated approximately 6% of the Group’s total revenue during the first quarter, compared with 15% a quarter earlier. Despite this development in Germany we delivered good growth at the Group level, which reflects our strong performance in many other key markets, including Italy, Canada and Spain. Our business is more diversified than ever before, and growth at the Group level is proof that our data-driven way of working and allocating marketing investments is effective.

I also want to highlight Sweden, where the strength of the LeoVegas brand and our product breadth is appreciated by our customers. Our Swedish customer base set a new record during the quarter, and in March we grew on a yearly basis for the first time since the temporary Covid-19 restrictions were implemented in July 2020.

leoventures
The first quarter was an intensive period for our investment vehicle LeoVentures. Among other things we invested in SharedPlay, a company that makes it possible for players to share their gaming experiences with others through the industry’s first multiplayer solution. For a long time we have created successful,  exclusive games with the help of external providers. We are now taking the next step by starting our own game studio – Blue Guru Games. This venture will give us full control and greater flexibility in developing new games, a unique offering to our players, and also a new revenue stream for the Group.

COMMENTS ON the SECOND QUARTER
Revenue for the month of April amounted to EUR 32.7 m (37.5), corresponding to negative growth of 13%. Excluding Germany, growth in April was positive at 4%.

Finally I want to urge you to be on the lookout for the new launch of Expekt in Sweden towards the end of May – you won’t be disappointed!

Presentation of the report – today at 09:00 CET

  • To participate in the conference call, and thereby be able to ask questions, please call one of the following numbers: SE: +46 (0) 8 50 69 21 80, UK: +44 (0) 20 71 92 80 00, US: +1 63 15 10 74 95, Confirmation code: 6888544 or join at the web https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/x6q2utt4

This information is information that LeoVegas AB (publ) is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation 596/2014. The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact person set out below, at 08:00 CET on 6th of May 2021.

Powered by WPeMatico

Continue Reading
Advertisement

betting terminals

Meridianbet Completes Fairbet Acquisition, Expanding Malta Retail Gaming Network Under Golden Matrix Group

Published

on

meridianbet-completes-fairbet-acquisition,-expanding-malta-retail-gaming-network-under-golden-matrix-group

Meridianbet, a leading global sports betting and gaming operator and a subsidiary of Golden Matrix Group Inc. (NASDAQ: GMGI), has completed the acquisition of Fairbet Ltd., a licensed retail gaming operator in Malta.

The transaction significantly expands Meridianbet’s physical retail footprint in one of Europe’s most tightly regulated gaming jurisdictions.

Fairbet operates under Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) license B2C/195/2011, and the acquisition grants Meridianbet 100% ownership of Fairbet’s retail operations across Malta and Gozo, the archipelago’s second-largest island. The deal expands Meridianbet’s presence beyond its existing locations and further consolidates its position within the Maltese retail gaming market.

As part of the transaction, nine additional retail locations will be integrated into the Meridianbet network, increasing the company’s total number of storefronts in Malta to 20. The enlarged retail estate is expected to operate more than 60 sports betting terminals and over 120 slot machines, significantly boosting Meridianbet’s land-based gaming capacity.

The companies’ previous technology partnership will now transition into full operational integration, with Meridianbet assuming complete operational control of Fairbet’s retail network. All locations will be rebranded under the Meridianbet name, ensuring unified technology, compliance, and customer experience across the portfolio.

Malta’s retail gaming sector is governed by one of the most restrictive regulatory frameworks in Europe, with only three licensed operators permitted to operate retail betting locations: Meridianbet, Izibet (the National Lottery operator), and Fairbet. With Fairbet now wholly owned by Meridianbet, the company effectively controls two of the three retail gaming licenses in the jurisdiction.

The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) enforces strict licensing criteria, substantial capital requirements, and rigorous compliance standards that create significant barriers to market entry. These conditions limit competition and create long-term scarcity value for licensed operators that meet the regulatory threshold.

“Completing the acquisition of Fairbet strengthens our position in a market where regulatory barriers create inherent scarcity value,” said Zoran Milosevic, CEO of Meridianbet. “This transaction allows us to expand our retail infrastructure in Malta, while our technology now supports the majority of licensed retail gaming in the country. It reflects our disciplined M&A strategy, targeting high-barrier markets where limited licensing creates durable competitive advantages.”

The Fairbet acquisition aligns with Meridianbet’s broader growth strategy, which combines organic expansion with selective mergers and acquisitions in jurisdictions where regulation encourages consolidation. Malta has been a core operational hub for Meridianbet since 2008, with the company ranking among the country’s originally licensed gaming operators during the early development of the MGA framework.

Malta’s gaming industry benefits from a regulatory regime widely regarded as one of Europe’s most credible. The MGA’s oversight framework emphasizes investor protection, technical compliance, and financial stability, positioning Malta-licensed operators for trust and recognition across international markets.

Meridianbet’s expanded retail footprint across Malta and Gozo enhances its ability to serve both local customers and the island nation’s strong tourism sector. According to Malta’s National Statistics Office, tourist arrivals exceeded three million visitors in 2024, reinforcing the strategic value of a broad, well-positioned retail gaming network

The post Meridianbet Completes Fairbet Acquisition, Expanding Malta Retail Gaming Network Under Golden Matrix Group appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.

Continue Reading

Atlaslive

Atlaslive Reaches Final Shortlist for Best Live Platform Provider at SiGMA Eurasia 2026

Published

on

atlaslive-reaches-final-shortlist-for-best-live-platform-provider-at-sigma-eurasia-2026

Atlaslive, a provider of B2B iGaming platform technology, has earned a place on the shortlist for the BEST LIVE PLATFORM PROVIDER 2026 category at the SiGMA Eurasia Awards 2026.

The SiGMA Eurasia Awards spotlight excellence across the iGaming, affiliate, and online entertainment industries, honoring companies and solutions that drive innovation, sustainable growth, and measurable impact. The shortlist is announced as part of the SiGMA Eurasia Summit, taking place February 9–11, 2026, at Dubai Festival City in the United Arab Emirates.

“Platform performance is measured in milliseconds, uptime, and player trust. Being shortlisted in this category reflects the technical discipline and delivery standards our teams bring to operators every day.”
—Anastasiia Poltavets, CMO at Atlaslive

Partners, supporters, and members of the community can participate in the awards process through public voting by submitting their support using the following form:
https://share.hsforms.com/11aCinm5wS92yCSiAtXDGUg3s9oo

Taking place during summit week, the awards ceremonies create a key moment for industry professionals to connect, share insights, and celebrate innovation at one of the year’s most prominent gaming events.

About Atlaslive

Atlaslive delivers flexible, scalable iGaming platform technology to operators in regulated markets. Focused on performance, reliability, and continuous product development, Atlaslive enables sportsbook and casino operations aligned with diverse business models.

This document is provided to you for your information and discussion only. This document was based on public sources of information and was created by the Atlaslive team for marketing usage. It is not a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any gambling-related product. Nothing in this document constitutes legal or business development advice. This document has been prepared from sources Atlaslive believes to be reliable, but we do not guarantee its accuracy or completeness and do not accept liability for any loss arising from its use. Atlaslive reserves the right to remedy any errors that may be present in this document.

About Atlaslive

Atlaslive is a B2B software development company that specializes in creating a multifunctional and automated platform to optimize the workflow of sports betting and casino operators. Key components of the Atlaslive Platform include Sportsbook, Casino, Risk Management and Anti-Fraud Tools, CRM, Bonus Engine, Business Analytics, Payment Systems, and Retail Module. Follow the company on LinkedIn to stay updated with the latest news in iGaming technology.

The post Atlaslive Reaches Final Shortlist for Best Live Platform Provider at SiGMA Eurasia 2026 appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.

Continue Reading

Atlaslive

Atlaslive Reaches Final Shortlist for Best Live Platform Provider at SiGMA Eurasia 2026

Published

on

atlaslive-reaches-final-shortlist-for-best-live-platform-provider-at-sigma-eurasia-2026

Atlaslive, a provider of B2B iGaming platform technology, has earned a place on the shortlist for the BEST LIVE PLATFORM PROVIDER 2026 category at the SiGMA Eurasia Awards 2026.

The SiGMA Eurasia Awards spotlight excellence across the iGaming, affiliate, and online entertainment industries, honoring companies and solutions that drive innovation, sustainable growth, and measurable impact. The shortlist is announced as part of the SiGMA Eurasia Summit, taking place February 9–11, 2026, at Dubai Festival City in the United Arab Emirates.

“Platform performance is measured in milliseconds, uptime, and player trust. Being shortlisted in this category reflects the technical discipline and delivery standards our teams bring to operators every day.”
—Anastasiia Poltavets, CMO at Atlaslive

Partners, supporters, and members of the community can participate in the awards process through public voting by submitting their support using the following form:
https://share.hsforms.com/11aCinm5wS92yCSiAtXDGUg3s9oo

Taking place during summit week, the awards ceremonies create a key moment for industry professionals to connect, share insights, and celebrate innovation at one of the year’s most prominent gaming events.

About Atlaslive

Atlaslive delivers flexible, scalable iGaming platform technology to operators in regulated markets. Focused on performance, reliability, and continuous product development, Atlaslive enables sportsbook and casino operations aligned with diverse business models.

This document is provided to you for your information and discussion only. This document was based on public sources of information and was created by the Atlaslive team for marketing usage. It is not a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any gambling-related product. Nothing in this document constitutes legal or business development advice. This document has been prepared from sources Atlaslive believes to be reliable, but we do not guarantee its accuracy or completeness and do not accept liability for any loss arising from its use. Atlaslive reserves the right to remedy any errors that may be present in this document.

About Atlaslive

Atlaslive is a B2B software development company that specializes in creating a multifunctional and automated platform to optimize the workflow of sports betting and casino operators. Key components of the Atlaslive Platform include Sportsbook, Casino, Risk Management and Anti-Fraud Tools, CRM, Bonus Engine, Business Analytics, Payment Systems, and Retail Module. Follow the company on LinkedIn to stay updated with the latest news in iGaming technology.

The post Atlaslive Reaches Final Shortlist for Best Live Platform Provider at SiGMA Eurasia 2026 appeared first on Americas iGaming & Sports Betting News.

Continue Reading

Trending

Get it on Google Play

Fresh slot games releases by the top brands of the industry. We provide you with the latest news straight from the entertainment industries.

The platform also hosts industry-relevant webinars, and provides detailed reports, making it a one-stop resource for anyone seeking information about operators, suppliers, regulators, and professional services in the European gaming market. The portal's primary goal is to keep its extensive reader base updated on the latest happenings, trends, and developments within the gaming and gambling sector, with an emphasis on the European market while also covering pertinent global news. It's an indispensable resource for gaming professionals, operators, and enthusiasts alike.

Contact us: [email protected]

Editorial / PR Submissions: [email protected]

Copyright © 2015 - 2024 - Recent Slot Releases is part of HIPTHER Agency. Registered in Romania under Proshirt SRL, Company number: 2134306, EU VAT ID: RO21343605. Office address: Blvd. 1 Decembrie 1918 nr.5, Targu Mures, Romania