Entain bids for Tabcorp’s wagering division

UK-based Entain has made a non-binding offer to buy the wagering and media division of Australia’s largest gambling company, Tabcorp Holdings.

After the first media reports appeared in Australia, Entain released a statement confirming the story, adding: “Whilst discussions are at an early stage, any transaction would be in line with Entain’s current M&A strategy of expanding across regulated international markets.

“As such, this would present an opportunity to acquire an attractive business which, if combined with Entain’s existing Australian business, would create a leading, integrated multi-channel and multi-brand wagering company.”

Tabcorp’s wagering and dedia division is second in size only to its lotteries and keno division, accounting for about 40 per cent of Tabcorp’s overall revenue. The Tabcorp division also holds a roughly 43 per cent share of Australia’s horse racing and sports betting market.

Entain is not the only suitor to buy the Tabcorp wagering division, as the Australian company released its own statement saying: “Tabcorp confirms that it has received a number of unsolicited approaches and proposals in relation to a potential transaction involving Tabcorp’s wagering and media business.

“The proposals were expressed to be confidential, indicative, non-binding and subject to numerous conditions including due diligence, financing and various regulatory approvals. There is no certainty that any transaction will occur.”

Source: Asia Gaming Brief