SBC News Voice of the Sports Betting Industry
Italian news sources are reporting that Lottomatica (IGT) has entered talks for the potential acquisition of Italian betting operator Sisal Italia.
The merger of Lottomatica and Sisal, would create Italy’s biggest gambling operator in a deal rumoured to be in excess of £1 billion.
The acquisition of Sisal, would see Lottomatica expand its presence within the Italian retail sector taking over Sisal Matchpoint assets.
Italian newspaper La Repubblica, has stated that Sisal governance had revised its options regarding a buy-out, following its cancelled IPO in July 2014.
Following a review of market conditions and potential suitors, Lottomatica is said to the operators leading choice. La Repubblica reports that negotiations between the two parties have been ongoing since early 2015, but have recently seen a break due to talks entering the Italian summer season.
At present both companies’ governances have remained quiet on negotiations and detailing insight on the takeover
Italian industry analysts have noted that the Italian betting market may see substantial corporate consolidation in the coming months/years, as operators have been impacted by higher taxes and declines in player wagering.
