Denmark’s state-run gambling operator Danske Spil took a pandemic beating in the first half of 2020 but says it’s “back on track” to realize its earlier projections for its full-year performance.  

Figures released Wednesday show Danske Spil generated revenue of DKK2.3b (US$365.3m) in the six months ending June 30, down 7.8% from H1 2019. But operating profit was flat at DKK1.67b and profit slipped only 2.9% to DKK794.4m (although that decline rises to 9.4% once the 2019 divestment of its stake in games developer CEGO is factored into the mix).

The company managed to keep its ship afloat through reduced expenses, particularly on the marketing front, while gaming taxes and commissions were also lower due to COVID-19 reducing the scope of Danske Spil’s operations.

The mainstay lottery division Danske Lotteri Spil reported revenue of DKK1.3b, up 5.2% year-on-year, thanks in part to a series of extra-large prizes on offer, particularly via the Eurojackpot lottery.