Evolution Gaming’s $2.1b bid for NetEnt to create online casino powerhouse

The online casino technology supplier segment is joining the gambling industry’s consolidation craze as live dealer specialists Evolution Gaming launched a takeover bid for random number generator (RNG) online slots stars NetEnt.

On Wednesday, the Stockholm-listed Evolution announced an SEK19.6b (US$2.11b) offer to acquire fellow Swedes NetEnt in a bid to create what Evolution called “the world leader in the online gaming industry.” The official offer document will be published in mid-August with a deadline for acceptance of October 26 and possible completion of the acquisition by November 2.

The offer values NetEnt’s shares at just under SEK80, a 43% premium over the company’s Tuesday closing price. NetEnt’s board has unanimously recommended that shareholders accept the offer, which Evolution has warned it will not increase.

NetEnt’s largest long-term family shareholders, who represents 68.2% of votes and 29.5% of the company’s capital, have either signed irrevocable undertakings to accept the offer or made statements indicating their intention to sign such undertakings.