Poll: Who is best placed to acquire OpenBet?
Supplier is subject to an array of takeover bids but which party's proposal makes most strategic sense?
The race to acquire sportsbook and gaming supplier OpenBet intensified last week when it was revealed William Hill was ready to provide the financial backing for a NYX Gaming bid.
OpenBet, which provides its back-end solution to a large number of UK-facing sportsbooks such as Paddy Power, William Hill and Sky Bet, is believed to be on the market for around ?250m.
News that private equity owner Vitruvian Partners was ready to dispose of the asset sparked a number of parties into action, including operators largely dependent on the OpenBet technology.
There is some concern among OpenBet customers that should the supplier fall into the hands of a rival operator, it would likely result a period of upheaval as customers migrate to alternative platforms.
Paddy Power Betfair (PPB) is one of the names believed to be in the shake-up for Openbet, a deal which, if successful, would almost certainly cause much disruption for its UK rivals, although also see PPB take control of an asset diminishing in value.
However, William Hill has looked to avoid such a scenario by teaming up with NYX. With William Hill positioned as a financial backer, an NYX-managed OpenBet could continue to service its current roster of clients – and retain its value – without too much conflict of interests.
Playtech is also understood to be keen on OpenBet and believes it holds a strong bargaining position with the rival supplier also standing to benefit should an operator takeover of OpenBet emerge. However, a successful Hills/NYX bid could see the supplier giant lose out on both counts.
Finally, there is also the chance OpenBet could remain in private or independent hands and EGR understands a private consortium is currently among the leading pack.
With this in mind, this week’s EGR poll asks: Which party is best placed to acquire OpenBet? Have your say on the right-hand side of the page.