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Aspire Global: Interim Report Third Quarter 2021
REVENUE INCREASED 46% AND EBITDA 38% IN Q3 2021
THIRD QUARTER
- Revenues increased by 46.0% to €58.6 million (40.1).
- EBITDA increased by 38.0 % to €9.1 million (6.6).
- The EBITDA margin amounted to 15.5% (16.4%).
- EBIT increased by 38.7% to €6.8 million (4.9).
- Earnings after tax increased 68.1% to €6.4 million (3.8).
- Earnings per share increased 62.5% to €0.13 (0.08).
NINE MONTHS
- Revenues increased by 38.2% to €162.4 million (117.5).
- EBITDA increased by 46.0% to €27.5 million (18.8).
- The EBITDA margin increased to 16.9% (16.0%).
- EBIT increased by 45.7% to €21.1 million (14.5).
- Earnings after tax increased 79.0% to €19.4 million (10.8).
- Earnings per share increased 77.2% to €0.39 (0.22).
SIGNIFICANT EVENTS IN THE QUARTER AND AFTER THE END OF THE QUARTER
- Revenues increased 46.0% from Q3 2020 driven by strong development in all segments.
- Organic growth of 39.0% from Q3 2020.
- B2B revenues grew 40.5% from Q3 2020 with organic growth of 31.2%.
- Strong performance in sub-segments Aggregation and Games – Pariplay and Sports – BtoBet.
- Agreement to sell the B2C segment to Esports Technologies announced 1 October – closing expected by 30 November 2021 upon completion
of certain contingent terms. The total value of the transaction sums up to about €65 million. The transaction also includes a four-year platform and managed services agreement with an estimated gross value of €70 million. - Aspire Global signed a platform deal with Esports Technologies in September for its leading brand Gogawi.
- Pariplay further strengthened its position in the Americas – first contract in Brazil signed and granted full supplier license in West Virginia.
- Pariplay signed a deal to provide its proprietary games to Holland Casino in the newly regulated Dutch market.
- First brand live with BtoBet’s sportsbook on Aspire Global’s platform. To date six brands are already live.
- Two deals covering Aspire Global’s complete offering signed.
CEO COMMENTS
“WE CLEARLY EXECUTE OUR GROWTH STRATEGY TO BECOME A WORLD LEADING IGAMING SUPPLIER”
With the sale of the B2C segment, Aspire Global will become a clearly focused B2B company and even stronger and more profitable. The sale will also give us additional resources to further develop and enhance our B2B offering as well as the opportunity to explore new M&A activities. In Q3 2021, we have made key progress towards our objective of establishing strong positions in the US and Brazil. Our success in these markets will be important steps in reaching our goal to become a world leading B2B iGaming supplier.
The sale of the B2C segment – expected to take place at the end of November 2021 – will have a significant positive impact on Aspire Global’s position as a focused B2B company and profitability. Excluding the B2C segment, revenues increased by 36.1% to €118.9 million and EBITDA increased by 54.1% to €22.7 million in the first nine months 2021 with an EBITDA margin of 19.1%. B2B organic growth in the nine-month period amounted to 27.1%.
We initiated the review of our B2C segment in March this year, and on October 1 we announced the agreement with US-based Esports Technologies to acquire the B2C segment. The consideration sums up to about €65 million, consisting of €50 million in cash, €10 million in a promissory note and €5 million in common stock in the listed entity of Esports Technologies. The transaction also includes a four-year platform and managed services agreement with an estimated gross value of €70 million, based on present volumes. The transaction is expected to close by November 30, 2021, pending Esports Technologies receipt of financing, and other closing requirements.
A TRANSFORMATIVE, STRATEGIC MOVE
The divestment of the B2C segment is a transformative, strategic move for Aspire Global. First of all, the change in business mix will affect the revenue so that it will consist only of B2B revenues and, at the same time, the share of managed services will increase. The divestment will also provide Aspire Global with additional resources to further develop the technology platform as well as its offering in casino, sports and managed services. The managed services part of our business is essential to us, not only because it is recurring, but also because it will secure our continued deep knowledge about player behaviour. Furthermore, we expect that Aspire Global will have other peers as a focused B2B company and that investors will find it easier to value the company.
Following the divestment, we will also look into M&A possibilities with the aim to control even more of the value chain. Our successful acquisitions of Pariplay in 2019 and BtoBet in 2020 are proof of our ability to identify and integrate companies that complement our offering in the value chain. In the first nine months of 2021, Pariplay has grown by 79.4% to €21.7 million with an EBITDA margin of 27.9%. BtoBet has also demonstrated strong growth of 68.7% to €7.8 million in the nine-month period with an EBITDA margin of 23.1%.
KEY PROGRESS IN THE US AND BRAZIL
The B2C divestment also provides us with increasing opportunities to continue to invest in establishing a considerable position in above all the big and quickly growing Brazilian and US markets. In Q3 2021, we have made key progress in the US and Brazil. Pariplay signed a deal with FansUnite Entertainment, entailing that Aspire Global enters the Brazilian market for the first time. FansUnite is a Canadian sports and entertainment company, and Pariplay will supply its wide portfolio of proprietary and third-party content, via its Fusion Pariplay also further strengthened its position in Latin America by a deal with the world-famous land-based and online games provider Ainsworth Game Technology. The deal will see Ainsworth partnering exclusively with Pariplay for all new online releases in Latin America, with making its titles available to players through Pariplay’s Fusion Pariplay reached another milestone in its US expansion strategy during Q3 2021 after being granted a full iGaming Supplier License in West Virginia. Pariplay made its debut in the fast-growing US market when its content went live in New Jersey in February 2021 and Pariplay has applied for licenses in several states. DEEPER ESPORTS RELATIONSHIPS
We are also proud and happy with the relationship we have established with Esports Technologies. Esports Technologies is a leading global operator and provider of products and marketing solutions in the quickly growing esports market. Beside the B2C deal, we also signed a strategic license agreement with Esports Technologies in Q3 2021. As part of the deal, Esports Technologies will launch its esports/sportsbook Gogawi.com in certain key markets on our platform and intends to launch an additional brand on the platform in the future. In addition, we will make the Esports Technologies proprietary esports feed available to our partners around the world.
Esports Technologies are at a rapid growth phase and aim to become the world’s number one esports company. As part of the B2C agreement, Karamba and our other B2C brands will join our B2B network, and will become one of our biggest B2B partners. I’m sure that the experience and excellence of our B2C team, together with the ambition and investment of Esports Technologies, will take the brands to new heights.
PROFITABLE GROWTH IN REGULATED MARKETS
In the quarter, Germany introduced a new regulation with higher gaming duties. Despite this regulatory change, the EBITDA margin in the B2B segment increased to 18.7% from 18.0% in Q3 2020. This clearly demonstrates Aspire Global’s ability to manage a profitable operation in regulated markets. In October, the Netherlands opened for online gaming and Pariplay just a few days ago announced a deal to supply its proprietary games to Holland Casino. Holland Casino has a leading presence within the new regulated digital ecosystem in the Netherlands.
OUTLOOK
Aspire Global has consistently demonstrated its ability to execute its growth strategy, reaching its financial targets and create value. We see great growth opportunities by expanding with existing partners, gaining new partners and entering new markets. With the divestment of the B2C segment we will further enhance investments in our technology and product offering as well as geographic presence with focus on Brazil and the US. We will also put even more energy on increasing the M&A pipeline. We clearly execute our growth strategy to become a world leading iGaming supplier.
Tsachi Maimon, CEO.
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FreezeNova
10-15% Of Gamers In Florida Show Signs Of Gaming Addiction: Here Are 10 Signs Your Kid Is Suffering From It (And How You Can Help)
Recent studies indicate that 10-15% of young gamers in Florida exhibit signs of gaming addiction. These findings underscore the need for early identification of symptoms to prevent negative impacts on children’s mental and physical health. Gaming addiction, if not dealt with, can lead to poor academic performance, social withdrawal, and even health problems.
Marin Cristian-Ovidiu, CEO of FreezeNova, discusses key indicators of gaming addiction and offers practical advice for parents.
Recognizing Early Signs
“Early recognition of gaming addiction is crucial in preventing long-term negative outcomes,” Marin explains. The following signs can help parents identify if their child might be developing an addiction:
Exhaustion and Irritability
Constant tiredness and grumpiness during the day could indicate late-night gaming sessions interfering with sleep.
Gaming Obsession
If gaming dominates your child’s thoughts and conversations, and they plan their day around it while neglecting other responsibilities, it could be a sign of addiction.
Decline in Academic Performance and Lost Interests
A noticeable decline in academic performance or loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities may suggest your child is prioritizing gaming over more important tasks.
Emotional Volatility
Extreme emotional reactions to in-game outcomes, such as uncontrolled anger, known as ‘Gamer Rage’, or intense celebrations, could indicate an unhealthy attachment to gaming.
Physical Strain
Signs of repetitive strain injuries like ‘Gamer’s Thumb’ or ‘Nintendo Neck’ from prolonged screen time are warning signals.
Neglecting Basic Needs
If your child is neglecting basic needs like eating, sleeping, or hygiene to keep playing, gaming has likely taken an unhealthy control over their life.
Creating a Supportive Environment
While video games can be a great source of entertainment and connection, around 70% of people with signs of gaming addiction also experience social disorders. Marin recommends a few tips for building a supportive and open environment for your child.
Teamwork and Setting Boundaries
“Parents and children should work together to create a healthy gaming environment. Gaming addiction requires a holistic approach,” Marin advises. Start by setting clear boundaries on gaming time to ensure there’s room for schoolwork, chores, and quality family time.
Revisit activities your child once loved, like football practice or exploring new hobbies together. It’s vital for your child to take breaks from screens, so create a balanced daily routine that includes homework, chores, exercise and just some gaming time. This allows your child to enjoy their games without neglecting other aspects of their life.
Open Communication
Maintain open communication. Discuss the games your child enjoys and any concerns you might have. By understanding their world, you can work together to find solutions.
Remember, you’re not alone. If you feel overwhelmed, seek professional help from specialists in gaming addiction. Marin concludes, “By working as a team, setting clear boundaries, and fostering open communication, we can help your child develop a healthy relationship with gaming and thrive in all areas of life.”
Latest News
Week 51/2024 slot games releases
Here are this weeks latest slots releases compiled by European Gaming
PG Soft has released its epic samurai saga, Geisha’s Revenge. Set among Japan’s opulent teahouses, the game follows leading light Ayane on her quest to seek justice for her family by the ruthless samurai. Geisha’s Revenge is a video slot presented within a framework that has five reels, the first of which has five rows and the next four have six rows.
3…2…1… Get ready for blastoff in Wild Moonsters, the latest intergalactic slot adventure from in-demand studio, Silverback Gaming. Players go on a cosmic thrill tide as they navigate a hexagon game grid to create stellar clusters of 4+ matching symbols to form wins. They also need to keep their eyes out for the Wild symbol, which shoots excitement, and big win potential, into the stratosphere.
TaDa Gaming has released its latest slot game, Lucky Jaguar. With three rows, three reels and five fixed play lines, this fast gameplay slot delivers wild bonuses and multiplier bonuses alongside the TaDa Extra Bets and Lock and Respin features. The wealth of the Aztec empire is waiting in Lucky Jaguar in both the main game and the bonus game, which can trigger randomly at any time to deliver the Lock and Respin feature.
ICONIC21, the in-demand provider of live content, continues to push boundaries with the addition of slots to its growing game portfolio. The provider’s slot games will combine classic mechanics, engaging narratives and fun characters offering players an interactive experience throughout. The first slot titles to go live will be Solar Sands, Vitamin Joy, Tortuga Fortune and Juicy Coins: Hold & Win with ICONIC21 planning to launch one slot per month in 2025. The slots are high volatility ones, with max wins ranging from x300 to x36,000. Wild & Scatter Symbols, Hold & Win, Bonus Rounds, Multipliers and Free Spins ensure the games have a fluid, entertaining gameplay.
BGaming takes the concept of the ever-popular premium rubber duck stores and swings open the doors to its own slot version in Lucky Ducky X-Mas Edition. This quacky festive title features the popular MergeUp™(patent pending) mechanic with nine levels, Free Spins with multipliers up to x128, and both the Buy Bonus and Chance x2 buttons.
Evoplay has launched Sea of Wealth, an underwater adventure combining engaging visuals and innovative features. The game features a 3×3 reel layout with symbols inspired by marine life and hidden treasures. Poseidon serves as the Wild symbol, while his Trident activates the Bonus Game when paired with Bonus symbols. With Trident Magic, Poseidon’s Trident collects values from Bonus symbols, while Trident Shot can trigger a transformation of random symbols on reels 1 or 3 into Bonus symbols, increasing the likelihood of activating the Bonus Game.
Nolimit City returns to the most profitable sweatshop in the business in Outsourced: Payday. Workers have been replaced by claws who never call in sick! This Labs-branded slot takes the Outsourced theme to the next level. This is yet another experimental game that changes the way players enjoy Nolimit City’s slots.
Battle the beast and claim untold riches in Jolly Roger Wild Kraken! This high-seas pirate expedition takes players deep into the Kraken’s lair, where treasures await those brave enough to face the fury of the legendary Wild Kraken. Play’n GO’s latest release brings back Captain Red Roger in an all-new nautical escapade. Having braved countless dangers in search of treasure, Roger now sets his sights on Kraken Deeps – a perilous archipelago shrouded in mystery and riches.
PopOK Gaming announced the launch of Papai Noel da Fortuna, the latest holiday-themed slot game. Just in time for the season of joy, this exciting release captures the magic of Christmas and New Year with festive fun, dazzling rewards, and immersive gameplay. Step into a winter wonderland where Santa Claus himself takes center stage, filling the reels with sparkling ornaments, golden bells, and overflowing gift bags. With Papai Noel da Fortuna, every spin is a celebration of holiday cheer and fortune.
ELA Games, a modern and trailblazing game development studio, announces the release of its latest game, Wealth of Legends. The slot aims to attract players of various audiences with its unique format, exciting graphics and captivating features. The 5×5 game pays all ways, giving players plenty of opportunities to win during the base game, keeping the playing experience engaging. Landing a coin symbol in the special zone triggers the Hold & Win feature, which begins three free re-spins. Collect special jackpot coins for a lucrative win!
The post Week 51/2024 slot games releases appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Compliance Updates
Stakelogic Secures License to the newly regulated Danish market
Industry-leading provider secures license to provide slots and live content in Denmark
Award-winning casino content provider Stakelogic has obtained a license from the Danish Gambling Authority, Spillemyndigheden, to provide its gaming content in Denmark.
The license will allow Stakelogic to bring its premium portfolio of online casino slots and live dealer content to the Danish market, including recent releases like Fire and Gold Cluster Breaker, Super Wheel Game Show, Trident of Legends, and The Watcher.
Stakelogic is able to partner up with leading Danish operators, establishing itself as a must-have provider in the country. The move further highlights Stakelogic’s commitment to strengthening its position in the European market and exploring new and exciting regulated markets.
The license also further cements the company’s presence in the Scandinavian markets, having secured a license from the Swedish authority, Spelinspektionen, in 2023 and establishing itself as a popular provider among Swedish players.
Denmark is one of Europe’s fastest-growing markets, with a strong focus on customer care and responsible gambling. Stakelogic is proud to have met all the requirements needed to obtain the license, highlighting its commitment to providing players with the best and safest gaming experiences.
Stephan van den Oetelaar, CEO at Stakelogic, said: “Denmark is one of the fastest growing markets in Europe, and we are proud to have achieved a license to the newly regulated market.
We are grateful to Spillemyndigheden for their support in us and we are excited to take our next steps into the market.”
The post Stakelogic Secures License to the newly regulated Danish market appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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