Connect with us

Latest News

La Française des Jeux (FDJ) announces its results for the first half of 2020

Published

on

Reading Time: 14 minutes

 

The good momentum in stakes seen in the early part of the year (increase of 5% until mid-March) was halted by the consequences of the Covid-19 epidemic (decline of nearly 60% over the two months of lockdown). The gradual recovery since the lifting of lockdown in mid-May has accelerated with the gradual resumption of sporting competitions, including most of the national football championships in Europe, and the return of Amigo on 8 June. As such, the decline in stakes was limited to 18% over the half-year compared with the first half of 2019. They totalled €6.9 billion, breaking down as:

  • Lottery stakes down 13% at €5.8 billion:
    • Of which -15% for draw games to €2.2 billion and -11% for instant games to €3.6 billion;
    • A 50% increase in online stakes to €0.5 billion.
  • Sports betting stakes down 39% at €1.1 billion.
  • Half-year revenue totalled €849 million, down 15% on an adjusted basis,1 and EBITDA amounted to €174 million, a margin of 20.5%.
  • For EBITDA, the mechanical impact of the decline in activity was partially offset by the implementation of a large part of the savings plan of more than €80 million for 2020.
  • From mid-June the Group has returned to an overall level of activity comparable with that of 2019. However, in view of the many uncertainties that remain, the Group does not communicate any business or earnings forecasts for the financial year 2020 as a whole. However, it should be borne in mind that the EBITDA margin for the second half of 2019 benefited from exceptional long lottery cycles, as well as unexpected sporting results, which reduced the player payout ratio in the sports betting segment.

Stéphane Pallez, Chairwoman and Chief Executive Officer of FDJ, said: “The Group’s strong mobilisation from the onset of the health crisis and a swiftly implemented cost-cutting plan have limited the impact on the first-half results. For several weeks, we have been recording stakes at a level comparable with that of 2019. Our strategic orientations and the strength of the FDJ model have been confirmed, and we continue to invest to support the development of all our activities.”

The 2019 data used for the following analyses have been adjusted to reflect the new tax regime that came into force on 1st January 2020 and to consolidate Sporting Group over a full year (but without adjustment for long lottery cycles)

Key figures (in millions of euros)

30 June
2020

30 June 2019

adjusted

Chg. vs
adjusted

30 June 2019
published

Chg. vs
published

Stakes

6,898

8,454

(18%)

8,420

(18%)

Revenue*

849

995

(15%)

944

(10%)

Recurring operating profit

124

165

(25%)

136

(9%)

Net profit

50

96

(48%)

EBITDA**

174

208

(16%)

177

(2%)

EBITDA/revenue

20.5%

20.9%

18.8%

* Revenue: net gaming revenue and revenue from other activities
** EBITDA: recurring operating profit adjusted for depreciation and amortisation

Activity and results for H1 2020

  • Stakes of €6.9 billion, down 18.4%
  • Lottery stakes of €5.8 billion (-12.6%)

Lottery staked amounted to €5.8 billion, with a drop of 11.3% to €3.6 billion for instant games and a drop of 14.6% to €2.2 billion for draw games:

  • For instant games, the decline can be attributed in large part to the steep decline in footfall in points of sale during lockdown and the lack of activity in the product portfolio during the second quarter;
  • For draw games, the decrease can be ascribed chiefly to the suspension of Amigo, an express draw game in points of sales from 19 March to 8 June. Adjusted for Amigo, draw games stakes were down only slightly (-1.7%);
  • Online lottery stakes enjoyed good momentum, with an increase of 50% to €0.5 billion, and a marked acceleration in the second quarter, driven mainly by growth in the number of active players and the almost doubling of new registrations on fdj.fr.
  • Sports betting stakes of €1.1 billion (-38.8%)

Sports betting stakes totalled €1.1 billion. After a performance in line with objectives at the start of the year, sports betting stakes were impacted by the gradual cancellation of virtually all sporting competitions from mid-March 2020. No major sporting competitions took place during lockdown, which considerably reduced the betting offer. Since mid-May, sporting competitions, particularly football, have gradually resumed, resulting in a very significant resumption in stakes.

  • Revenue down 14.7% at €849 million

On half-yearly stakes of €6.9 billion (-18.4%), player winnings totalled €4.6 billion (-19.9%), representing a player payout (PPO) ratio of 67.3%, compared with 68.4% in the first half of 2019. The decline in the PPO reflects the change in the betting mix, with a higher share of lottery games. In addition, the sports betting PPO was reduced by unexpected results.

FDJ recorded gross gaming revenue (GGR: stakes less prizes won) down 15.1% at €2.3 billion. Net gaming revenue (NGR: GGR less contribution to the public finances) amounted to €829 million, i.e. 12.0% of stakes, with stability in the rate of public levies on games compared with that of the first half of 2019 at 63.5% of GGR, or €1.4 billion.

The FDJ Group’s revenue amounted to €849 million (-14.7%), compared with €995 million in the six months to end-June 2019.

  • EBITDA of €174 million, representing a margin of 20.5% on revenue (vs 20.9% in H1 2019)
  • Contribution margin by activity:
  • Lottery: contribution margin steady at 32.2%

The contribution margin of the Lottery BU was €219 million, i.e. a decline of €37 million (‑14.4%), for a margin on revenue of 32.2%, vs 33.2% in H1 2019 on the basis of revenue down 12.2% at €679 million.

Cost of sales, mainly the remuneration of distributors, was down 13.6% due to the drop in stakes in points of sale, while the slight increase of 6.6% in marketing and communication expenses to €65 million reflects the continued development of the product offering, partly offset by the reduction in advertising and promotional expenses.

  • Sports betting: contribution margin of 31.3%, an increase of 7 points due to the low PPO ratio

The Sports Betting BU’s contribution margin was €45 million in H1 2020, almost stable compared with the same period in 2019 (€48 million), i.e. a margin on revenue of 31.3%, up more than 7 points compared with the first half of 2019 (24.3%). Based on a drop of 38.8% in stakes, the lower half-yearly PPO ratio than in the first half of 2019 (73.1% vs 77.7%) helped limit to €50 million the decline in revenue (-25.7%) to €145 million.

The 39.3% reduction in cost of sales reflects trends in stakes, while the 15.8% decline in marketing and communication expenses to €34 million is related to the reduction in advertising and promotional initiatives against the backdrop of a reduced product offering.

  • Adjacent activities and holding company

Adjacent activities (International, Payments & Services and Entertainment) and the holding company recorded revenue of €24 million, with a contribution margin close to breakeven. Holding company costs amounted to €89 million, down €9 million compared with H1 2019.

  • EBITDA margin of 20.5%, virtually stable thanks in large part to the implementation of a savings plan of more than €80 million

From the onset of the health crisis and its first effects, the Group implemented a savings plan of more than €80 million for 2020. Two-thirds of the plan, more than half of which covered A&P expenditure, was implemented in H1, helping offset more than half of the decline in activity and thereby helping keep FDJ’s EBITDA margin above 20%.

The Group’s operating expenses were down 12.5% at €725 million, of which:

– Cost of sales of €482 million, down 17.6%, which notably includes the remuneration of €336 million for distributors, down €88 million (-21%), in line with the decline in stakes in the point-of-sale network;

– Marketing and communication expenses of €147 million, down nearly 2%;

– General and administrative expenses of €87 million, down 7%.

Depreciation and amortisation amounted to €50 million, compared with €43 million in H1 2019. Their growth was driven mainly by the amortisation of exclusive operating rights over a full half-year in 2020, compared with a single month in H1 2019.

On those bases, the FDJ Group recorded a recurring operating profit of €124 million (-24.9%) and EBITDA of €174 million (-16.4%), i.e. a margin on revenue of 20.5%, compared with 20.9% in June 2019.

  • Net income of €50 million including non-recurring items

In the first half of 2020, FDJ recorded other non-recurring operating expenses of €30 million, compared with €7 million in the first half of 2019. They related to Sporting Group, on which FDJ recorded impairment due to its sports betting activity in the United Kingdom.

The financial result for the first half of 2020 (expense of €5 million) reflects the change in the value of part of FDJ’s financial assets in a context of bearish financial markets.

After taking into account a net tax expense of €39 million, down €5 million, the Group’s net profit for the first half of 2020 was €50 million.

  • Available cash exceeding €800 million and net cash surplus of €298 million at end-June 2020

At the end of June 2020, the Group had more than €800 million in available cash.

The net cash surplus is one of the indicators of the level of net cash generated by the Group. It corresponds mainly to financial investments and gross cash (€1,154 million), less borrowings (€733 million).

As of 30 June 2020, it amounted to €298 million, an increase of €218 million compared with 31 December 2019. The change was mainly attributable to:

– The EBITDA generated over the half-year, plus a dual positive effect on working capital surplus linked on the one hand to the change in the payment schedule for public levies (monthly in 2020 but weekly in 2019) and on the other hand to unclaimed prizes only returned to the State at the end of the year;

– Against which are charged dividends in respect of 2019 and investments for the first half of the year.

For information, the net cash surplus at the end of June cannot be extrapolated to the end of December because there are significant calendar effects on the payments of public levies, including an advance on public levies in December.

A financial presentation is available on the FDJ group’s website
https://www.groupefdj.com/en/investors/financial-publications.html.

FDJ’s Board of Directors met on 29 July 2020 and reviewed the interim consolidated financial statements at 30 June 2020, which were prepared under its responsibility. The limited review procedures on the interim consolidated financial statements have been carried out. The review report of the statutory auditors is being issued.

The Group’s next financial communication

Given the changing nature of the situation, the estimates and forward-looking statement presented by FDJ cannot constitute either a forecast or a target. The Group will announce its stakes and revenue for the September quarter after trading on 14 October and will issue its new 2020 outlook as soon as possible.

 

About La Française des Jeux (FDJ Group):

France’s national lottery and leading gaming operator, the #2 lottery in Europe and #4 worldwide, FDJ offers secure, enjoyable and responsible gaming to the general public in the form of lottery games (draws and instant games) and sports betting (ParionsSport), available from physical outlets and online. FDJ’s performance is driven by a portfolio of iconic and recent brands, the #1 local sales network in France, a growing market, recurring investment and a strategy of innovation to make its offering and distribution more attractive with an enhanced gaming experience.

FDJ Group is listed on the Euronext Paris regulated market (Compartment A – FDJ.PA) and is included in the SBF 120, Euronext Vigeo France 20, STOXX Europe 600, MSCI Europe and FTSE Euro indices.

For further information, www.groupefdj.com

Appendices

Adjusted 2019 data, with the full-year application of the new tax regime that came into force on 1 January 2020 and the consolidation of Sporting Group over 12 months.

In € million

30 June 2020

30 June 2019
published

Chg. 30 June 2020 vs
30 June 2019 published

30 June 2019
adjusted

Chg. 30 June 2020 vs
30 June 2019 adjusted

Stakes*

6,898

8,420

(18.1%)

8,454

(18.4%)

Attributable to Lottery

5,777

6,609

(12.6%)

6,609

(12.6%)

Instant lottery games**

3,558

4,012

(11.3%)

4,012

(11.3%)

Draw games

2,219

2,598

(14.6%)

2,598

(14.6%)

Attributable to Sports betting

1,108

1,810

(38.8%)

1,810

(38.8%)

Digitalised stakes***

1,391

1,652

(15.8%)

1,652

(15.8%)

Offline stakes

6,269

7,917

(20.8%)

7,917

(20.8%)

* Stakes reflect wagers by players, and do not constitute the revenue of the FDJ Group
** Mainly scratch games (point of sale and online)
*** Digitalised stakes include online and digitalised stakes at the point of sale, i.e. using a digital service/application for their preparation, prior to registration by the distributor

In € million

30 June 2020

30 June 2019
published

Chg. 30 June 2020 vs
30 June 2019 published

30 June 2019
adjusted

Chg. 30 June 2020 vs
30 June 2019 adjusted

Stakes

6,898

8,420

(18.1%)

8,454

(18.4%)

Player winnings

4,646

5,757

(19.3%)

5,799

(19.9%)

Player payout ratio

67.3%

68.4%

68.6%

Gross gaming revenue (GGR)

2,253

2,663

(15.4%)

2,654

(15.0%)

GGR as a % of stakes

32.7%

31.6%

3.3%

31.4%

4.0%

Net gaming revenue (NGR)

829

933

(11.2%)

976

(15.0%)

NGR as a % of stakes

12.0%

11.1%

8.5%

11.5%

4.1%

Revenue

849

944

(10.1%)

995

(14.7%)

Segment reporting

30 June 2020
In € millions Lottery BU Sport
Betting BU
Other
segments
Holding
company
Total before
depreciation
and amortisation
Depreciation
and
amortisation
Total Group
Stakes

5,777

1,108

14

6,898

6,898

Gross gaming revenue

1,954

298

1

2,253

2,253

Net gaming revenue

677

145

6

829

829

Revenue

679

145

24

1

849

849

Cost of sales

(395)

(65)

(3)

(464)

(18)

(482)

Marketing and communication expenses

(65)

(34)

(21)

(12)

(133)

(14)

(147)

Contribution margin

219

45

(1)

(12)

251

(32)

219

General and administration expenses

(78)

(78)

(18)

(95)

EBITDA

174

Depreciation and amortisation

(50)

Recurring operating profit

124

BU Loterie BU Paris
sportifs
ABU Holding Total avant
amort.
Amort. Total Groupe
Mises

6,610

1,810

34

0

8,454

8,454

Produit Brut des Jeux (PBJ)

2,251

403

0

0

2,654

2,654

Produit Net des Jeux (PNJ)

771

195

9

0

976

976

Chiffre d’affaires

773

195

27

0

995

995

Coût des ventes

-456

-107

-3

0

-566

-19

-585

Coûts marketing et communication

-61

-41

-22

-14

-138

-12

-150

Marge contributive

256

48

2

-14

291

-31

260

Coûts administratifs et généraux

-83

-83

-12

-95

EBITDA

208

Dotations aux amortissements

-43

Résultat Opérationnel Courant

165

30 June 2019 published
In € millions Lottery
BU
Sport Betting
BU
Other
segments
Holding
company
Total before
depreciation and
amortisation
Depreciation and
amortisation
Total Group
Stakes

6,610

1,810

8,420

8,420

Gross gaming revenue

2,257

406

2,663

2,663

Net gaming revenue

759

173

2

933

933

Revenue

761

173

11

944

944

Cost of sales

(456)

(107)

(1)

(564)

(19)

(583)

Marketing and communication
expenses

(62)

(40)

(11)

(14)

(127)

(11)

(138)

Contribution margin

243

26

(2)

(14)

253

(30)

223

General and administration
expenses

(76)

(76)

(11)

(87)

EBITDA

177

Depreciation and amortisation

(41)

Recurring operating profit

136

Consolidated income statement

In € millions 30 June 2020 30 June 2019
published
Stakes

6,898.4

8,420.0

Player payout

(4,645.5)

(5,756.9)

Gross gaming revenue

2,252.8

2,663.0

Public levies

(1,429.8)

(1,692.4)

Structural allocations to counterparty funds

0.0

(39.1)

Other revenue from sports betting

6.0

1.9

Net gaming revenue

829.0

933.4

Revenue from other activities

19.7

10.5

Revenue

848.6

944.0

Cost of sales

(481.9)

(582.9)

Marketing and communication expenses

(147.5)

(138.1)

General and administrative expenses

(87.0)

(85.6)

Other recurring operating income

0.5

0.4

Other recurring operating expenses

(9.0)

(1.8)

Recurring operating profit

123.8

135.9

Other non recurring operating income

0.2

0.1

Other non recurring operating expenses

(30.3)

(7.3)

Operating profit

93.7

128.7

Cost of debt

(2.1)

(0.8)

Other financial income

5.7

12.2

Other financial expenses

(8.9)

(0.5)

Net financial income/(expense)

(5.2)

10.9

Share of net income for joint ventures

0.5

0.6

Profit before tax

89.0

140.2

Income tax expense

(38.8)

(44.4)

Net profit for the period

50.2

95.9

Attributable to :
Owners of the parent

50.2

95.9

Non -controlling interests

0.0

0.0

Basic earnings per share (in €)

0.26

0.50

Diluted earnings per share (in €)

0.26

0.50

In € millions

30 June 2020

30 June 2019
published

June 2020 vs
June 2019 published

30 June 2019
adjusted

June 2020 vs
June 2019 adjusted

Recurring operating profit

124

136

(8.8%)

165

(24.8%)

Depreciation and amortisation

(50)

(41)

22.0%

(43)

16.3%

EBITDA

174

177

(1.8%)

208

(16.4%)

Consolidated statement of comprehensive income

In € millions 30 June 2020 30 June 2019
published
Net profit for the period

50.2

95.9

Cash flow hedging, before tax

0.1

0.2

Net investment hedge on foreign activities, before tax

6.6

0.6

Net currency translation difference, before tax

(2.4)

0.3

Tax related to items that may subsequently be recycled

(2.1)

(0.2)

Items recycled or that may subsequently be recycled to profit

2.2

0.9

Actuarial gains and losses

0.3

(3.3)

Others

(0.0)

(0.0)

Tax related to actuarial gains and losses through equity

(0.1)

1.0

Items that may not subsequently be recycled to profit

0.2

(2.3)

Other comprehensive income/(expense)

2.4

(1.4)

Total comprehensive income for the period

52.7

94.5

Attributable to :
Owners of the parent

52.7

94.5

Non-controlling interests

0.0

0.0

Consolidated statement of financial position

In € millions
ASSETS 30 June 2020 31 December 2019
published
Goodwill

28.1

56.4

Exclusive operating rights

363.1

370.7

Intangible assets

162.2

148.3

Property, plant and equipment

385.7

394.0

Non-current financial assets

378.1

584.3

Investments in associates

14.9

14.5

Non-current assets

1,332.1

1,568.2

Inventories

16.3

10.5

Trade and distribution network receivables

385.8

469.8

Other current assets

302.0

314.8

Tax payable assets

6.0

18.9

Current financial assets

354.9

272.2

Cash and cash equivalents

475.6

201.5

Current assets

1,540.6

1,287.8

TOTAL ASSETS

2,872.7

2,856.0

In € millions
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 30 June 2020 31 December 2019
published
Share capital

76.4

76.4

Statutory reserves

91.7

87.5

Retained earnings (incl. Net profit for the period)

366.2

406.7

Reserves for other comprehensive income/(expense)

1.2

(1.3)

Equity attributable to owners of the parent

535.4

569.2

Non-controlling interests

0.0

0.0

Equity

535.4

569.2

Provisions for pensions and other employee benefits

56.3

56.9

Non-current provisions

48.1

49.3

Deferred tax liabilities

26.1

24.9

Non-current player funds

0.0

0.0

Non-current financial liabilities

568.6

229.7

Non-current liabilities

699.1

360.9

Current provisions

15.9

16.7

trade and distribution network payables

314.1

411.6

Tax payable liabilities

1.0

0.7

Current player funds

176.4

156.6

Public levies

540.6

414.8

Winnings payable and distributable

244.4

189.3

Other current liabilities

180.6

169.6

Payable to the French State with respect to the exclusive operating rights

0.0

380.0

Current financial liabilities

165.1

186.5

Current liabilities

1,638.2

1,925.9

TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES

2,872.7

2,856.0

Consolidated statement of cash flows

In € millions 30 June 2020 30 June 2019
published
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net consolidated profit for the period

50.2

95.9

Change in depreciation, amortisation and impairment of non-current assets

75.9

43.1

Change in provisions

4.1

6.1

Disposal gains or losses

0.2

0.1

Income tax expense

38.8

44.4

Other non-cash items from P&L

(0.2)

0.0

Net financial (income)/expense

5.2

(10.9)

Share of net income from joint ventures

(0.5)

(0.6)

Non-cash items

123.5

82.2

Use of provisions – payments

(6.5)

(4.5)

Interest received

2.5

2.3

Income taxes paid

(25.2)

(31.9)

Change in trade receivables and other current assets

(19.6)

124.2

Change in inventories

(5.7)

(1.9)

Change in trade receivables and other current liabilities

222.9

(56.5)

Change in other components of working capital

(1.6)

(1.5)

Change in operating working capital

196.0

64.3

Net cash flow from/(used in) operating activities

340.6

208.3

INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Acquisitions of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets

(423.2)

(32.4)

Acquisitions of investments

0.0

(111.8)

Disposals of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets

0.1

0.0

Change in current and non-current financial assets

145.3

(50.1)

Disposals of other financial assets

0.0

0.0

Change in loan and advances granted

(26.9)

2.8

Dividends received from associates and non-consolidated share

0.0

0.4

Other

0.5

0.0

Net cash flow from/(used in) investing activities

(304.3)

(191.0)

FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Issue of long-term debt

380.0

113.3

Repayment of the current portion of long-term debt

(8.8)

(4.0)

Repayment of lease liabilities

(4.0)

(2.9)

Dividends paid to ordinary shareholder of the parent company

(83.4)

(118.3)

Interest paid

(4.8)

(0.8)

Other

(0.6)

0.0

Net cash flow from/(used in) financing activities

278.5

(12.7)

Impact of exchange rates change

(0.4)

0.9

Net increase/(decrease) in net cash

314.3

5.5

Cash and cash equivalent as at 1 January

201.5

167.2

Cash and cash equivalent as at 31 December

475.6

179.0

Current bank overdrafts as at 1 January

(40.2)

(7.2)

Current bank overdrafts as at 31 December

0.0

(13.6)

Consolidated statement of changes in equity

In € millions

Share capital

Statutory reserves

Retained earnings (incl. Net profit for the period)

Cash flow hedging

Net investment hedge on foreign activities

Net currency translation difference

Actuarial gains and losses

Reserves for other comprehensive income/
(expense)

Equity attributable to owners of the parent

Non-controlling interests

Total equity

 

 Equity as at 31 December 2018 

 76.4   

  85.3   

   401.1   

    0.2   

       0.0   

       2.1   

   (1.2)  

                  1.1   

   563.9   

       0.0   

  563.9   

 Net profit for the period 

     95.9   

      95.9

      0.0   

   95.9   

 Other comprehensive income/(expense)

     0.2

        0.4

        0.3

    (2.3)

                (1.4)

      (1.4)

    (1.4)

 Total comprehensive income/(expense) for the period 

   0.0   

    0.0   

     95.9   

    0.2   

       0.4   

       0.3   

   (2.3)  

               (1.4)  

     94.5   

    (0.0)  

    94.5   

 Appropriation of 2018 profit/(loss)

    2.0

      (2.0)

 2018 dividends paid

  (122.0)

  (122.0)

 (122.0)

 Equity as at 30 June 2019 

 76.4   

  87.4   

   372.8   

    0.4   

       0.4   

       2.4   

   (3.5)  

               (0.3)  

   536.2   

    (0.0)  

  536.2   

 Equity as at 31 December 2019 

 76.4   

  87.5   

   406.7   

  (0.1)  

     (1.4)  

       4.1   

   (3.9)  

               (1.3)  

   569.2   

       0.0   

  569.2   

 Net profit for the period 

     50.2   

     50.2   

   50.2   

 Other comprehensive income/(expense)

     0.1

        4.5

      (2.4)

     0.2

                  2.5

        2.5

      2.5

 Total comprehensive income/(expense) for the period 

   0.0   

    0.0   

     50.2   

    0.1   

       4.5   

     (2.4)  

     0.2   

                  2.5   

     52.7   

       0.0   

    52.7   

 Appropriation of 2019 profit/(loss)

    4.2

      (4.2)

 2019 dividends paid

    (86.0)

    (86.0)

   (86.0)

 Other

      (0.6)

      (0.6)

    (0.6)

 Equity as at 30 June 2020 

   76.4   

    91.7   

     366.1   

      0.0   

         3.1   

         1.7   

     (3.7)  

                    1.2   

     535.4   

        0.0   

    535.4   

Net cash surplus

In € millions 30 June 2020 31 December 2019
published
Non-current financial assets at amortised cost

160.0

440.0

Non-current assets fair value through profit or loss

131.3

90.4

Other non-current financial assets excluding deposits

32.4

29.3

Total non-current investments (a)

323.7

559.8

Current financial assets at amortised cost

349.0

253.0

Current financial assets at fair value through profit or loss

5.0

16.1

Current derivatives

0.8

0.9

Total current investments (b)

354.8

270.0

Total current and non-current investments

678.5

829.8

Investments, cash equivalents

185.0

121.2

Cash at bank and in hand

290.7

80.3

Total cash and cash equivalents

475.7

201.5

Total gross investments and cash

1,154.2

1,031.3

Long-term financial debt

546.1

205.0

Non-current lease liabilities

22.0

24.4

Total non-current financial debt (c)

568.1

229.4

Short-term financial debt

27.2

8.2

Current lease liabilities

7.2

7.0

Current derivatives

0.2

0.7

Other

130.5

170.5

Total current financial debt excluding deposits (d)

165.1

186.4

Total financial debt

733.2

415.8

INVESTMENTS AND NET CASH

421.0

615.5

Payable to the French State with respect to the exclusive operating rights

0.0

(380.0)

Reclassification of online players wallets not yet covered by trust

0.0

(26.9)

Restricted cash

(4.5)

(5.3)

Sums allocated exclusively to Euromillions winners

(72.6)

(77.2)

Net liability associated with the permanent fund surplus

(46.1)

(46.1)

NET CASH SURPLUS

297.8

79.9

(a) Non-current investments correspond to non-current financial assets (as set out in the notes to the consolidated financial statements – statement of financial position), excluding Euromillions deposits and guarantee deposits
(b) Current investments correspond to current financial assets (as set out in the notes to the consolidated financial statements – statement of financial position), excluding given deposits and guarantees
(c) Long-term financial debt corresponds to non-current financial liabilities (as set out in the notes to the consolidated financial statements – statement of financial position), excluding received deposits and guarantees
(d) Short-term financial debt corresponds to non-current financial liabilities (as set out in the notes consolidated financial statements – statement of financial position)

———————————————

1 Restated to reflect the new tax regime that came into force on 1 January 2020 and consolidating Sporting Group on a full-year basis. Based on 2019 reported figures, half-year revenue would have been down 10%.

Continue Reading
Advertisement

Latest News

Heavyweight Club by GR8 Tech Signals New Era of Operator Ambition at iGB L!VE

Published

on

heavyweight-club-by-gr8-tech-signals-new-era-of-operator-ambition-at-igb-l!ve
Reading Time: 3 minutes

 

The iGaming industry got a taste of heavyweight ambition at iGB L!VE London 2025, where GR8 Tech unveiled its Heavyweight Club—an exclusive community that takes domination in iGaming markets as seriously as world champion Oleksandr Usyk takes defending his undisputed heavyweight title.

“iGB L!VE London was the ignition point for the Heavyweight Club. We showcased top-tier tech and connected with operators ready to lead, scale, and dominate. The energy, the conversations, the demand for real performance confirmed what we’ve always believed: the iGaming industry is hungry for heavyweight solutions and GR8 Tech is here to deliver,” said Sergey Ghazaryan, GR8 Tech’s CRO.

Industry Response Points to Market Appetite

With increased competition making differentiation more challenging, speed-to-market pressure intensifying as new markets emerge, and technology debt from legacy systems hindering operators’ growth, the industry is at a critical juncture. In 110 meetings with the sales team and over 65 conducted demos, operator feedback consistently centered on these exact challenges.

This shift is evident across the ecosystem. Mariia Shmelova, CEO of Aff.Tech—GR8 Tech’s proprietary affiliate management platform—observed similar patterns: “One major trend is the demand for greater transparency and performance accountability. Operators want to see exactly what’s driving traffic, conversions, and ROI. That’s why we’ve been doubling down on data—not just analytics, but actionable insights that affiliates and operators can use in real time. We’re also seeing growing interest in multi-geo, multi-brand campaigns, and our platform is built to support those kinds of complex setups with ease. Flexibility, automation, and smart integrations are the future.

The conversations revealed a clear understanding: champion ambitions require champion tools. Operators emphasized the need for high-performance solutions that deliver geo-specificity for local market domination and margin mastery that turns competitive pressure into profit advantage. The response highlighted how operators are seeking partners who understand that every champion needs exactly the right tools for their specific fight.

GR8 Tech’s approach resonated because it addresses this reality with three key solutions designed for different use scenarios:

  • Hyper Turnkey, which delivers fully managed casino and sportsbook operations that scale with ambition;
  • ULTIM8 Sportsbook iFrame with its lightning-fast integration and market-specific customization capabilities;
  • Infinite Casino Aggregation, offering premium gaming experiences with an operator-first flexibility.

This comprehensive approach ensures every operator gets precisely what they need to overcome their unique market challenges and achieve championship-level performance.

Heavyweight Club Momentum Builds Toward Next Championship Round

The “Fight for Greatness” collection drew significant attention on the show floor. Attendees’ enthusiasm for the showcased apparel and accessories, paired with strong performance of the online store, confirmed that the Heavyweight Club resonates far beyond technology—it’s a mindset people want to embody and a philosophy they want to wear.

GR8 Tech’s AR experience featuring Oleksandr Usyk became a magnet for attendees, with over 80 participants stepping into the champion’s world in one of the most memorable activations on the show floor. Winners of the AR experience didn’t just walk away with impressive pictures—they earned tickets to witness Usyk defend his undisputed heavyweight title against Daniel Dubois this July.

Just as Usyk will defend his title at Wembley, the Heavyweight Club will continue its championship journey beyond iGB L!VE. The next epic edition awaits at SBC Summit in September, where the movement will expand with new challenges and opportunities for operators ready to dominate their markets.

Ready to fight for greatness? Connect with GR8 Tech and step into the ring.

 

GR8 Tech. Platform for Champions

GR8 Tech is an award-winning provider, delivering high-performance sportsbook and iGaming solutions that empower operators to lead and win in competitive markets. Key elements of GR8 Tech’s comprehensive portfolio include the Hyper Turnkey solution, ULTIM8 Sportsbook iFrame,  Infinite Casino Aggregation, and Platform Acceler8 suite, featuring its proprietary affiliate management platform, Aff.Tech.

With a geo-specific approach to solutions, a focus on practical innovations, and an operator-first mindset, GR8 Tech helps its clients achieve measurable results in their target markets quickly and efficiently. Trusted by top operators worldwide, GR8 Tech has over 100 successful cases and earned multiple recognitions, including the title of the Best Sports Betting Provider in CEE by GamingTECH Awards 2025.

The post Heavyweight Club by GR8 Tech Signals New Era of Operator Ambition at iGB L!VE appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Continue Reading

Latest News

Booming Games Goes Live on Ivy Casino, Strengthening UK Market Presence

Published

on

booming-games-goes-live-on-ivy-casino,-strengthening-uk-market-presence
Reading Time: < 1 minute

 

Booming Games is pleased to announce the successful integration of its slot titles with Ivy Casino, one of the UK’s fastest-rising online gaming brands. The partnership marks an exciting milestone as Booming Games continues to gain traction across the UK market.

Ivy Casino players now have access to a growing portfolio of Booming Games’ titles, including the standout hit 64 Gold Coins Hold & Win. Known for its engaging mechanics and strong performance on some of the UK’s biggest platforms, Booming Games is quickly becoming a go-to provider for UK players seeking fresh, high-quality content.

Matt Attard, Account Management Team Lead at Booming Games, commented: “We’re thrilled to see our games now live on Ivy Casino, a brand that’s already establishing itself as a serious player in the UK market. Our titles, especially 64 Gold Coins Hold & Win, are designed to deliver excitement and engagement, and we’re confident Ivy Casino’s players will respond well to our growing portfolio.”

Mark Good, representing Ivy Casino, added: “Booming Games brings a fresh and exciting addition to Ivy Casino’s growing library. Their titles, especially 64 Gold Coins, have been getting great exposure across established UK brands, and Ivy Casino is pleased to now offer them directly to its players. It’s a great fit as Ivy Casino continues expanding the premium content available to its users.”

The integration is now live, with more titles expected to follow in the coming months as both teams collaborate to bring even more variety and innovation to UK players.

The post Booming Games Goes Live on Ivy Casino, Strengthening UK Market Presence appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Continue Reading

Ahmed Baker Chief Commercial Officer at Incentive Games

INCENTIVE GAMES SECURES MICHIGAN GAMING LICENSE

Published

on

incentive-games-secures-michigan-gaming-license

 

Incentive Games, a leading B2B games provider, is proud to announce that it has been awarded a Provisional Michigan gaming licence by the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB), effective today. This achievement allows the company to bring its innovative suite of Real-Money Games to operators and players across the state.

The Michigan licence represents Incentive Games’ first foray into the North American regulated market. This comes shortly after the launch of Incentive Studios, the company’s dedicated Real-Money Gaming division, which is set to drive its ambitious growth in this sector. The licence underscores the company’s unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest standards of compliance, security, and operational integrity. Obtaining this licence, which requires excellence in areas such as robust security protocols and comprehensive responsible gaming measures, provides access to one of the most dynamic iGaming markets in the United States.

Ahmed Baker, Chief Commercial Officer at Incentive Games, said, “Securing our Michigan licence marks an exciting new chapter for Incentive Games. It’s a testament to our unwavering commitment to meeting the highest regulatory standards and unlocks a significant opportunity for us in a critical North American growth market. This will allow Incentive Games to forge new partnerships and bring our highly engaging Real-Money Games directly to players in Michigan. We’re very grateful to the MGCB for this achievement, which is a pivotal step in our global expansion strategy as we continue to deliver world-class products and build strong partnerships in the region.”

The post INCENTIVE GAMES SECURES MICHIGAN GAMING LICENSE appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.

Continue Reading

Trending