Entain reported strong growth in its Australian operations during its first half earnings call on Thursday, with online revenue climbing 13% year-over-year on a constant currency basis. The company also saw a 21% increase in revenue from New Zealand for the same period.
CEO Stella David and new CFO Michael Snape noted that enhanced offerings, including improvements to their bet builder and native applications, contributed to increased market share in Australia. To complement its existing TAB racing partnership, Entain launched the sports-first digital brand Betcha in New Zealand in August 2024.
In August 2025, Andrew Vouris was appointed as the new CEO for Australia and New Zealand, bringing with him 17 years of experience from the local gambling industry. David remarked, "If you take Australia, we’re in healthy, double-digit growth because of changes that we’ve made to the way that we operate. So we think that is sustainable based on good inputs, focusing on broader sports, a less exclusive focus on racing, for example, streamlining the way that we operate, focusing in on the things that really move the dial."
She also expressed optimism about opportunities in Austria, where Entain has maintained a presence. Regarding New Zealand, David highlighted the potential for growth as the market prepares to liberalize iGaming regulations by 2027. "New Zealand, which is in double-digit growth at the moment, it’s very exciting that we’re going to get the casino regulations starting at the beginning of 2027, which is a new opportunity for us," she explained.
The company previously indicated plans to bid for three online licenses in New Zealand, including for its TAB racing monopoly. The market will allow a total of 15 licenses, with Betway’s Super Group also planning to pursue three.
Entain's international business overall saw a net gaming revenue (NGR) increase of 7% in the first half compared to the prior year. Spain was specifically mentioned as a high performer during this period, with the Bwin brand showing a remarkable NGR growth of 28%.
David noted, "We’re in great growth in Spain. We have great momentum there. We've got a great brand with Bwin. And so we think that the inputs are going to continue to generate market share growth." She also mentioned a fourfold increase in brand presence, a doubling of player acquisition, and substantial revenue growth.
Looking ahead, David and Snape reaffirmed their strategy to exit the Central and Eastern European (CEE) market, a decision announced in June. This move aims to de-leverage the firm's balance sheet and return capital to shareholders. Snape stated that proceeds from the CEE exit would help reduce reported leverage below the 3x mark.
“There’s no fire sale taking place here,” David reassured stakeholders. “We have really good value businesses that we continue to invest and grow. But the CEE feel is a good example of adding value.” Snape added, “We’re very firmly focused on shareholder value and unlocking value from the portfolio.”
Industry analysts have noted that Entain’s previous agreement with EMMA facilitated a swift divestiture. Concerns regarding Poland's iGaming monopoly and new tax increases have made the market less attractive. During the first half, CEE's NGR experienced a 2% growth before the business was discontinued in June, with online growth at 7% and a 22% decline in retail.
