Playtech confirmed that, following recent media speculation regarding a possible offer for the company, it has received an approach from Gopher Investments.
According to Sky News, Gopher Investments is working with Rothschild bankers on an offer worth around £3 billion ($4.05 billion).
The speculation follows an offer of 2.1 billion pounds sterling to buy Playtech from Australian company Aristocrat Leisure.
Playtech shares surged last month when it announced that its board was endorsing a 680p-per-share bid from the Australian group.
Aristocrat noted that it is aware of Gopher’s interest, but said it “will continue to work with Playtech to make progress on the recommended acquisition and urges Playtech shareholders to vote in favor of Aristocrat’s recommended acquisition at shareholders’ meetings once a Document of Business has been published”.
Gopher Investments holds a 4.97% stake in Playtech, with the former now seeking access to certain ‘due diligence’ information in order to explore terms for a possible bid for all of the equity capital issued and to be issued.
“Discussions with Gopher are at an early stage and ongoing,” read a statement from Playtech, “As such, there can be no certainty that Gopher’s approach will result in an offer to the company, nor as to the terms in which any offer can be made.
“This announcement was made without the prior consent of Gopher or Aristocrat,” added Playtech. “Another announcement will be made as and when appropriate.”
About Playtech
Founded in 1999 and with premium shares listed on the main market of the London Stock Exchange, the company is a market leader in the gaming and financial transactions sectors and has 6,400 employees in 24 countries.
The brand offers business intelligence driven gaming platform software, services, content and technology across the industry’s most popular product verticals including casino, live casino, sports betting, virtual sports, bingo and poker.
