The mega-deal between OPAP, a Greek company involved in game betting and lottery, and entertainment company Allwyn creates a global gambling giant, as the Financial Times (FT) reports.
“Czech billionaire Karel Komárek creates €16bn gambling giant,” the FT headline reads, with the report explaining the deal creates the second-largest gambling company listed in the world.
The FT article underlines that the merger, announced on Monday, comes after Komárek’s KKCG had raised its stake in OPAP to under 52% in 2013.
Karel Komárek, chairman of Allwyn, said the merger would “redefine the sector,” with the combined strength and scale expected to accelerate innovation and drive significant international growth.
The unified company will operate under the Allwyn name and remain listed on the Athens Stock Exchange, with an additional listing planned on another major exchange, such as London or New York.
Jan Karas, CEO of OPAP, said the deal has created “a leading gaming company with a strong Greek heritage, as well as continued presence and listing in Greece.”
Allwyn will hold approximately 78.5% of the combined group, while OPAP shareholders will retain the remaining 21.5%. KKCG is expected to control 85% of total voting rights.
Source: tovima.com
