In the latest developments in the gambling industry, Flutter Entertainment and Playtech, two prominent London-listed gambling companies, are reportedly engaged in a bidding war over SKS365, the operator renowned for the PlanetWin365 brand. According to City sources, the bidding is anticipated to reach between £500 million and £600 million. Additionally, Italian gambling group Lottomatica has expressed interest in acquiring SKS365.
Originally founded in Austria and presently headquartered in Malta, SKS365 operates various brands in Italy’s gambling market, spanning both retail and online sectors. PlanetWin365, with approximately 1,000 betting shops across Italy, holds a significant presence in the land-based sector. SKS365 also manages its own payments division, PlanetPay365, along with news portals Calcio.com and PlanetWin365.news.
The auction for SKS365 is being overseen by bankers from the global financial services firm Lazard. Playtech has confirmed its active participation in the acquisition process, acknowledging the presence of other interested parties. Flutter Entertainment, having recently completed the acquisition of Italian gambling giant Sisal, is yet to provide an official comment on the matter. Further updates from both companies are anticipated in due course.
