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LeoVegas AB: Fourth quarter: 1 October-31 December 2017

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LeoVegas AB: Fourth quarter: 1 October-31 December 2017
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“Three acquisitions, a listing change, unicorn status, refined strategy and one of our strongest quarters ever.”

                                                                                  Gustaf Hagman, Group CEO and co-founder

 

Fourth quarter: 1 October-31 December 2017

  • Revenue increased by 65% to EUR 67.8 m (41.2). Organic growth was 48%. Organic growth excluding markets closed in 2017 was 82%.
  • Revenue from regulated markets accounted for 29.0% (11.0%) of total revenue.
  • Mobile deposits accounted for 69% (67%) of total deposits, which increased by 62% to EUR 224.6 m (139.1).
  • The number of depositing customers was 253,299 (176,306), an increase of 44%. The number of new depositing customers was 128,409 (85,384), an increase of 50%. The number of returning depositing customers was 124,890 (90,922), an increase of 37%.
  • EBITDA was EUR 6.1 m (10.0), corresponding to an EBITDA margin of 9.0% (24.2%). EBITDA adjusted for items affecting comparability was EUR 7.1 m (10.0), corresponding to an adjusted EBITDA margin of 10.5% (24.2%).
  • Earnings per share were EUR 0.02 (0.10) before dilution and EUR 0.01 (0.10) after dilution.
  • LeoVegas’ board of directors proposes a dividend of SEK 1.20 (1.00) per share, for a total of SEK 119,634,564 (EUR 12.2 m).

Events after the end of the quarter

  • Net Gaming Revenue (NGR) totalled EUR 24.8 m (14.1) in January, representing growth of 76%. Excluding the acquisition of Royal Panda, NGR in January was EUR 20.9 m, representing growth of 48%.
  • LeoVegas acquired 51% of the shares in the company behind the streaming network CasinoGrounds.com for SEK 30 m (EUR 3.1 m), with a maximum potential earn-out of SEK 15 m (EUR 1.5 m). LeoVegas completed the acquisition and gained possession of the shares as per 1 January 2018. See page 10 for further information.
  • LeoVegas entered into an agreement to acquire, for GBP 65 m (EUR 73.5 m), assets from Intellectual Property & Software Limited and related assets from two additional companies that operate several brands, including 21.co.uk, slotboss.com, Bet UK and UK Casino. See page 10 for further information.
  • LeoVegas carried out its change in listing to Nasdaq Stockholm on 5 February.

Comment from Gustaf Hagman – Group CEO and co-founder

An incredibly eventful quarter

Q4 2017 was one of our best quarters ever, with very strong underlying growth. Compared with Q4 2016 and excluding markets that we closed in 2017, our organic growth was an incredible 82% during the quarter. We even set a record for new depositing customers.

During the Q4 LeoVegas passed an important milestone, namely, a market cap higher than a billion dollars, which means that we became a “Unicorn”.

I am very proud that we managed to carry out our first major acquisition during the fourth quarter, Royal Panda. During the last two years we have scoured the gaming market for companies that fit our overall expansion strategy, which Royal Panda does through its strong presence in the UK and its great global brand. Moreover, they earn a higher share of their revenue from mobile devices than the industry on average.

Royal Panda contributed EUR 5.6 m in revenue during the fourth quarter, which is slightly lower than their Q3 figure. This is because Royal Panda was included for only two months of the quarter, and because the company closed a number of markets during the year for the same reason that LeoVegas closed the Czech Republic and Australia. This was according to plan, and adjusted for these markets, Royal Panda grew 57% in Q4. Royal Panda is showing continued good performance in early Q1 2018, and I am very proud of how well our collaboration works already today.

During the quarter we acquired 51% of the shares in GameGrounds United AB (CasinoGrounds). The company operates the site www.casinogrounds.com, which in a short time has become a platform for casino streaming, with an active social casino forum.

In CasinoGrounds we are seeing a new behaviour in which people interested in casino games watch others play casino games via YouTube and Twitch. The combination of proprietary content and video format is creating interesting opportunities going forward and is in line with LeoVegas’ strategy to be an innovative and entrepreneur-driven company. Our ambition now is to scale up existing operations to more markets.

Refined strategy

For several years we have been searching for acquisition candidates, and we have now successfully carried out our first acquisition. This is yet another milestone in the Company’s history. LeoVegas will always focus on organic growth, but we will also make complementary acquisitions when we believe that they will develop our overall business. I want to add, however, that in the near-term we will focus on integrating these recent acquisitions.

Our expansion strategy is to grow in regulated markets and markets that will soon become regulated, and to carry out strategic, complementary acquisitions.

Our product strategy is to be the most innovative and pioneering company in the gaming industry.

Change in management team

LeoVegas Mobile Gaming Group is striving to be the most innovative, entrepreneurial and fastest growing company in our industry. To strengthen this pursuit, we are working intensively with our company culture, among other things.

Toward this end, I have created a new position, Chief Human Resources officer (CHRO), and brought Caroline Palm onto the Group Management team. In recent years Caroline has served as head of HR for a technology and entrepreneur-driven company grouping with more than 2,000 employees.

During the quarter we have seen the strengths of Jarl Modén’s work, and as a result we have promoted him to the permanent position of Chief Product Officer (CPO) on the Group Management team.

Authentic Gaming

Authentic Gaming unveiled very exciting news with the announcement of an agreement with Foxwoods Resort Casino, the largest casino resort in the USA. This has made it possible for the first time for casino gamers in Europe to play live casino streamed directly from casino tables in the USA. The service is distributed through Authentic Gaming’s network of operators, which includes LeoVegas.

4Q’17 figures

Revenue during the fourth quarter amounted to EUR 67.8 m (41.2), an increase of 65%. Organic growth was 48%. EBITDA adjusted for items affecting comparability related to consulting services for acquisitions and our listing on Nasdaq Stockholm was EUR 7.1 m (10.0), corresponding to an adjusted EBITDA margin of 10.5% (24.2%). Revenue from regulated markets accounted for 29% (11%) of total revenue during the quarter.

2017 – The year as a whole

We grew by 53% during 2017. But our organic growth during the year, excluding markets that we closed, was a full 61%. This is outstanding performance and figures that we at LeoVegas are very proud of.

In terms of personnel we grew from 365 employees at the start of the year to 566 at year-end, which of course puts high demands on our managers and organisation.

We have expanded our offices, and during the year we moved to new premises in Stockholm – all to create the best conditions for continued growth of the Company.

Denmark

During the year Denmark went from being a small market to a very important one and has thereby shows that our model, combined with hard work, is successful. LeoVegas is now one of the absolute strongest gaming brands in Denmark and continues to grow.

Canada

During the quarter, we launched our free-to-play site, LeoVegas.net, in Canada with the hockey legend Mats Sundin as an ambassador. At LeoVegas.net you can play mobile casino games without wagering real money and this will provide good marketing opportunities.

Our position – GameTech

Ever since LeoVegas was established we have been extremely product- and technology-driven. We therefore view ourselves not only as a mobile gaming company, but as a leading tech company in the gaming industry. Explaining LeoVegas to people in our external environment when it comes to identity, culture and way of working is described best by the term GameTech.

Start of 2018

Rocket X

We began the year with another large acquisition, with focus on the UK, when we entered into an agreement to acquire assets from Intellectual Property & Software Limited (“IPS”) along with related assets from two related companies with highly-ranked brands such as 21.co.uk, Slotboss, Bet UK and UK Casino. We now refer to this collectively as Rocket X.

Since its launch in 2012 LeoVegas has had a very successful global brand strategy. Following the acquisition of Royal Panda, LeoVegas has two scalable brands. In larger markets these global brands, LeoVegas and Royal Panda, can be complemented with a local, multibrand strategy, which has now been made possible through the Rocket X acquisitions. The UK market is sufficiently large and mature to justify working with several brands. In Rocket X we have identified several features that have caught our interest, and they have great momentum – both in their growth and profitability. This, combined with one of the market’s most effective customer acquisition models, gives us a stronghold in the UK plus 85 new employees with local expertise. With this acquisition we have also get a company culture that has a sharp focus on technology and products, which is a perfect match for LeoVegas.

In connection with the acquisition of Royal Panda, the Group secured debt financing of EUR 100 m, of which EUR 20 m was utilised in connection with the acquisition. We thus have scope of up to EUR 80 m to settle the Rocket X acquisitions.

During the fourth quarter of 2017 Rocket X had revenue of GBP 11.7 m and adjusted EBITDA of GBP 3.8 m, for an adjusted EBITDA margin of 32.6%. Revenue for the fourth quarter grew 49% compared with a year earlier. Of total revenue, 96% comes from the UK and 73% via mobile devices.

The acquisition is contingent upon the fulfilment of conditions, and possession is expected to be transferred during the latter part of Q1’18.

If both Royal Panda and Rocket X had been part of LeoVegas during the entire fourth quarter, consolidated revenue would have been EUR 84 m.

Product news

Apple Pay and facial recognition

Fifty-five per cent of LeoVegas’ customers in the UK use iPhones. The launch of Apple Pay is thereby contributing to an improved experience for these customers. Being able to offer Apple Pay requires that the market is locally regulated, which the UK is. The UK is the first market in which LeoVegas is launching Apple Pay, but we already have plans to introduce it in more markets. Using state-of-the-art technology, LeoVegas is also launching facial recognition for log-ins and approval of payments using Apple Pay. This is possible owing to LeoVegas’ own technology paired with Apple’s new iPhone X, allowing customers to log in in a few hundredths of a second and approve payments via Apple Pay just as fast.

Expanded focus on live sport

LeoVegas is working intensively to improve and build the best sports betting experience ahead of the forthcoming UEFA World Cup. As part of this we are expanding our live streaming offering in the Nordic markets. LeoVegas Sport now has a strong offering of some 10,000 live broadcast sport events.

Exclusive games

LeoVegas is working closely with a number of game developers, including NetEnt and Yggdrasil, to come up with innovative and exclusive games, which we call LeoVegas Originals. One example is WitchCraft Academy from NetEnt, which was launched in January, and more games are in the starting blocks for launch.

Nasdaq Stockholm’s Main Market list

I am very happy to note that as from 5 February LeoVegas is traded on Nasdaq Stockholm’s Main Market list. This change in listing will strengthen the Company and give us an even better quality seal in our communication and cooperation with authorities, licensors and partners. For institutional investors – both in Sweden but even more so abroad – we will become more accessible and attractive as a company.

Other comments on Q1 2018

January has begun well, with Net Gaming Revenue (NGR) of EUR 24.8 m (14.1), representing growth of 76%. Growth excluding acquisitions and closed markets was 72%. During the first quarter we expect marketing in relation to revenue to be slightly lower than the average for 2017.

We continue to win numerous accolades – most recently at the EGR Nordics Awards, where the most successful and innovative gaming companies were highlighted. In tough competition LeoVegas won three distinctions: “Nordics Operator of the Year”, “Casino Operator of the Year” and “Sports Betting Operator of the Year. It’s always fun to win!

With several great acquisitions, awards, our change in listing and a strong start to the first quarter, all of us at LeoVegas are looking forward to an exciting 2018.

Presentation of the report – today at 09:00 CET

To participate in the conference call, and thereby be able to ask questions, please call one of the following numbers: SE: +46 (0) 8 5065 3942, UK: +44 (0) 330 336 9411, US: +1720 543 0214 code: 492 82 23 or join at the web https://edge.media-server.com/m6/p/o7um9xoi

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BOS agrees with KV’s/KO’s advertising assessment of “Trisskrapet” in TV4

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The Swedish Trade Association for Online Gambling (BOS) agrees with the Swedish Consumer Agency’s (KV) and the Consumer Ombudsman’s (KO) assessment that the daily scratch card commercial “Trisskrapet” in TV4 is an advertising feature, and thus not an editorial feature. BOS welcomes that KO is now ending that part of the process.

If Svenska Spel does not stop the advertising elements, BOS looks forward to KV following up on its earlier call to Svenska Spel to comply with the provisions on advertising identification and broadcaster declaration in section 9 of the Marketing Act and the information obligation in ch. 15. Section 3 of the Gambling Act with information on the 18-year-old age limit and where to turn in case of gambling problems.

– The Swedish gambling market must be characterized by a high level of consumer protection. A cornerstone of good consumer protection is that people are clear about what constitutes gambling advertising, i.e. that they are not tricked into thinking that an advertising feature would instead be an editorial feature. The daily “Trisskrapet” on TV4 has been anything but clear on that point, and we welcome that KO now finally establishes that the features constitute advertising and nothing else, says Gustaf Hoffstedt.

– Now it remains for Svenska Spel to introduce the mandatory consumer protection labelling of Trisskrapet. Since the company has not shown any excessive eagerness to introduce this voluntarily, KO should ensure that this happens as soon as possible. Every day and every “Trisskrapet” that does not contain the mandatory consumer protection label is another lost day for a safe and secure gambling market, Gustaf Hoffstedt concludes.

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Expanse Studios Launches in Bulgaria with Inbet

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Expanse Studios, a leader in online gaming innovation, has secured a Bulgarian iGaming license and is now live on Inbet’s website. This expansion brings Expanse Studios’ popular game offerings including turn-based strategies gamified for iGaming, classic slots, traditional card games and the highly-acclaimed ones like Titan Roulette, Clown Fever Deluxe, Wild Icy Fruits, White Wild Whale and Joker Poker to Bulgarian players.

Diverse Gaming Portfolio Now Available to Bulgarian Players

With the Bulgarian market entry, Expanse Studios introduces a versatile gaming experience to Inbet’s platform. The offerings include a dynamic range of games tailored to diverse player preferences:

  • Turn-based strategy games: Leveraging gamification, these games transform traditional strategy gameplay into engaging iGaming experiences, suitable for both novice and experienced players.
  • Classic slots: Players will enjoy a variety of themed slots that combine traditional gameplay with modern graphics and sound.
  • Traditional card games: A selection of popular card games offer something for every card game enthusiast.
  • Titan Roulette: This standout feature, known for its immersive experience and innovative design, continues to be a favorite among roulette players.

Commitment to Quality and Compliance

Expanse Studios not only cultivates a diverse gaming library but also adheres to stringent regulatory standards to ensure a secure and fair gaming environment. The acquisition of the Bulgarian iGaming license is a testament to Expanse Studios’ commitment to compliance and excellence in the gaming industry.

The partnership between Expanse Studios and Inbet marks a significant milestone in Expanse Studios’ expansion efforts. By combining Expanse Studios’ innovative gaming solutions with Inbet’s established market presence, both entities are set to offer a superior gaming experience to players in Bulgaria and potentially beyond. As Expanse Studios continues to develop and release new games monthly, Bulgarian players can look forward to a continually evolving and enriching gaming landscape.

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Week 17/2024 slot games releases

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Week 17/2024 slot games releases
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Here are this weeks latest slots releases compiled by European Gaming

Belatra Games, the specialist online slots developer, is on point with its latest sharply designed game, Golden øks. This Norse-inspired adventure carries on from the popular Axe of Fortune title that hit the market at the turn of the year. Golden øks is set against a 5×3 layout and is brought to life with a powerful soundtrack to heighten the atmosphere.

Belatra grows games portfolio with Golden øks title

Endorphina, has announced the release of its brand-new title, Jolly Queen, which will join its portfolio on April 27th. Jolly Queen is a 5-reel, 5-row fruit slot with 50 fixed paylines, introducing players to the lifestyle of the nobles. On top of the aristocratic ambiance, Jolly Queen provides players with Free Games, allowing them to master the reels.

Endorphina releases its newest title - Jolly Queen!

Evoplay has released Candy Craze, a vibrant slot stacked with features and modifiers, including the powerful Gum Drop Multiplier which boosts win potential. Set amidst the backdrop of sumptuous sweets within a cloudy landscape, the 5×5 cascading reels title gives players a sugary rush when the Gum Drop Multiplier activates, revealing a mystery value at the end of each winning spin up to x100, enhancing the chance for wins during the main game and Free Spins.

Yggdrasil, a leading iGaming publisher, has revived the gold rush in a jackpot-filled game that embodies the spirit of old west prospecting in Gold Frontier Jackpots FastPot5™. Fans of lower volatility slots with straightforward mechanics that get fortune seekers right to the heart of the action are tasked with gathering keys to enter the treasure bonus game.

Relax Gaming is offering players some opulence in its latest release Sultan Spins. This high volatility slot sees its gold-trimmed reels set against a sprawling desert metropolis. Players have the chance to rack up riches via an entertaining free spins feature and lucrative local jackpot.

Greentube has introduced its latest title in the popular Diamond Link ™ series, Diamond Link ™: Mighty Dwarves Inc. Set deep in underground mines, this adventurous 5×3 slot is packed with innovative features for ample chance to win across its 25 paylines when players spin the reels adorned with hammers, hard hats and laser symbols.

Get your eyes ready because it’s time to take a trip to the pet centre to meet the ugliest, quirkiest, wildest-looking pets you’ve ever seen in the brand new slot, Fugly Pets, from Stakelogic. Fugly Pets takes players to a banged-up old pet store to explore its collection of weird and charming, downright ugly pets. Meet a scruffy parrot, a catnip crazed kitty, and an unfortunate-looking little dog.

 

 

Load your tackle box, bait your hook and get ready to reel in the catch of the day in Fishin’ The Biggest from Apparat Gaming, the in-demand German software provider’s latest splash hit slot that sees players trawl the sea for free spins and massively multiplied prizes. Played over five reels, three rows and ten fixed paylines, Fishin’ The Biggest is a highly-volatile title with an outdoor angling theme.

Thunderkick has announced the launch of Midas Golden Touch 2, the highly-anticipated sequel to the acclaimed 2019 original. This latest release invites players to rediscover an enchanted realm where everything King Midas touches turns to gold. The 3×5 video slot boasts 15 paylines and showcases Thunderkick’s signature high-quality design and innovative features.

Belatra Games, the specialist online slots developer, has served up another classic with its tasty Chef’s Sticky Fruits slot. This latest release from Belatra’s studio  is a vibrant and juicy addition to its renowned catalogue of slots. It’s a 5×4 slot game bursting with colour that’s heightened with an upbeat, retro soundtrack that perfectly captures the essence of fun at the heart of every play.

Belatra serves up tasty Chef’s Sticky Fruits slot

3 Oaks Gaming has launched 3 China Pots: Hold and Win, the first time the company has integrated the popular 3 Pots mechanic within a Far East-themed title. The latest instalment from 3 Oaks to incorporate the 3 Pots functionality sees players transported to the allure of the Orient, where the Extra, Double and Multi modifiers influence the Bonus Game once activated.

3 Oaks Gaming presents a feature-rich trip to the Far East in 3 China Pots: Hold and Win

Pragmatic Play has unleashed roaming wild re-spins and random guaranteed wins in Release the Bison. Symbols of the American frontier abound in this 5×4 slot, where hitting four or more rampaging bison triggers the wild re-spin feature, during which all wilds roam the reels to boost win potential.

Blueprint Gaming’s latest slot release tasks players to look for the leprechaun’s pot of gold under the water rather than at the end of the rainbow in Plenty O’ Fish, a 6×4 hybrid of sea creatures and shimmering rewards. Players must look to unlock a tackle box of treasure with a jaunty leprechaun being the key to wins, lurking behind a dynamically coloured underwater background that changes when the bonus game is triggered.

Booming Games has launched its latest sweet sensation to its collection of engaging slot games – Fruit Heaven Hold and Win™. This is a deliciously designed 5×3 slot game with 25 paylines, which promises players an exciting experience full of fantastic fruity features and Stacked Wilds.

Wazdan is multiplying jackpots in the follow-up to its top-performing game Mighty Wild™: Panther Grand Gold Edition. Venturing to the depths of the jungle where a black panther rules the reels on a 5×3 gameboard, the new edition provides even larger win potential. With the increased value of the Cash symbols and Cash Infinity™ symbols, there is also a more lucrative Grand Jackpot of 1500x the base bet.

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