The online gambling industry rumour mill has been buzzing this week following reports that gaming software company Playtech could be tempted into a joint takeover of Amaya. This follows speculation in the poker media that David Baazov is looking to acquire Amaya with the help of investors and other interested parties. This would take the Canadian-listed company, for which he is currently CEO, off the market and into private ownership.
Amaya’s share price currently makes the company worth C$4.4bn ($3.1bn or €3bn), therefore Baazov would need to find a number of wealthy parties to join him in a buyout of the business. Since acquiring Pokerstars in 2014, Amaya has grown considerably, becoming a key player in the gaming industry.
Playtech are believed to be keen to make further acquisitions in 2016 and are also eying a potential move for gaming network Openbet, which has recently been linked with a series of bids.
Mor Weizer, CEO of Playtech, told the Financial Times that the company has been very active in terms of potential takeover deals.
He told the business paper: “Acquisitions are an inherent and important part of our business, our cash bed is very strong, and it will play a key role going forward.”
Playtech’s shares rose 4% this morning on news of potential interest in Amaya, suggesting the market is keen for them to consider some new acquisitions.
