Betsson Group experienced a promising start of the new year, achieving an 18% revenue growth compared to the same quarter last year, with a revenue of 293,7 million euros.
Strong performance
The increase can be explained by their strong performance in both their regular platform revenues (a 18% growth) and sports betting revenues (a 22% growth) Although, the margin regarding sports was 8%, slightly lower than the previous quarter, it still outperformed the first quarter of 2024.
Let’s take a closer look at the other revenue numbers as well: Profit from core activities (EBIT) has risen by 11% to 64 million euros. And total earnings before interest, taxes and other expenses (EBITDA) has risen by 9% to 77,7 million euros. Net profit amounted to 48,4 million euros. Betsson also experienced a strong cash flow of 86,4 million euros and maintained a negative debt position.
Their financial performance remains solid, despite seasonal pressures. The first quarter typically sees a slower pace after the holiday season and fewer sports events are held during this period.
Consolidating position in international markets
Betsson Group continues to expand globally by investing in technology and entering new markets, such as Latin America, where their activities are also growing, thereby strengthening its position in international markets.
By implementing AI-supported processes, offering new payment solutions, and further enhancing sports betting, they aimed to maintain a position as market leader.
Even for the second quarter, which is only one month in, Betsson is already seeing positieve prospects. The company reported an average daily revenue that was 17% higher than in the second quarter of 2024. The sportsbook margin even exceeded the average of the previous eight quarters, indicating a continued increase in interest in their sports offering.
These trends show that Betsson is making the most of continued customer interest and a strong position in both casino and sportsbook.
Latin American region crucial factor in strategic growth
Considering that Latin America accounted for 25% of total revenue in the first quarter, this highlights the strategic focus on the region, which is why Betsson has even opened a new office in Buenos Aires. They have also extended their sponsorship with Boca-Juniors, a well-known football team in Argentina.
Their goal is to further establish a foothold in Brazil and Paraguay. In Brazil, Betsson started offering their services under a new license and in Paraguay they started technical activities after obtaining a local casino license.
Overall, revenues from locally regulated markets increased by 60%, accounting for 59% of total group revenues, compared to 43,6% a year earlier. This growth strengthens the company’s position in key regions.
Acquisition Goldrun casino still not approved
The Swedish gaming company also wants to enter the Dutch market through the planned acquisition of Goldrun’s parent company Holland Gaming Technology. In February 2024, Betsson already announced their plans for which they paid 27,5 million euros.
Their latest annual report shows that the acquisition has still not been approved by the Dutch gaming authority. (KSA) In acquisitions within the gambling sector, new owners and directors must go through an integrity check, and such an investigation can cause delay.
At Betsson, they don’t communicate about the potential reason for the delay, as CEO Pontus Lindwall prefers not to comment further on the matter. However, it is remarkable that Goldrun is already using a logo with the Betsson name.