First half results are expected to be significantly ahead of market expectations following continued growth in the Americas
Shares in Playtech soared by nearly 20 per cent in London Thursday morning as the company revealed that results for the first half of 2026 would be “significantly” ahead of market expectations.
The strong trading for the six-month period ended 30 June was driven by the Americas, with an “excellent” performance in the United States and continued growth in Mexico, Colombia and certain European markets.
Playtech said that its performance in the Americas continued to accelerate through May and June, with the company now expecting to deliver adjusted EBITDA of more than €155 million in H1 2026.
“We achieved an excellent performance in the first half of 2026, reflecting continued momentum in regulated markets, notably the Americas and certain European markets,” said Playtech CEO Mor Weizer. “Performance in the US, driven by our partnership with Hard Rock Digital, has been exceptionally strong, and we are delighted to see returns on our investments over recent years accelerate and contribute significantly to profitability and cash flow.
“Playtech continues to further establish itself in regulated and regulating markets going into the second half of the year, and we are pleased with the progress towards our medium-term targets. We look forward to publishing our interim results in a few weeks.”
Looking ahead to the second half of the year, Playtech expects adjusted EBITDA to be lower than the first half period for several reasons.
While Hard Rock Digital has become one of Playtech’s largest customers and is expected to remain so going forward, the company said that revenue with the operator is likely to continue at a lower but more sustainable level in H2 2026 and into 2027.
In addition, the company has invested in developing a new product based on Past Motor Racing (PMR) results, with Playtech being first to market with Hard Rock Digital.
Elsewhere, Playtech has been investing into a significant partnership in Brazil, ahead of expected signing and launch, which is likely to begin contributing to growth in 2027.
During the second half period, Playtech will also absorb the full impact of increased Remote Gaming Duty in the United Kingdom, which became effective in April 2026.
As a result, the company now expects adjusted EBITDA for the 2026 year to be at least €270 million, significantly above the current analyst consensus of between €205 million and €225 million.
Playtech will report its interim results for the first six months of the year on 10 September.
Shares in Playtech plc (LSE:PTEC) soared by 19.00 per cent to 381.03 pence per share in London following the announcement Thursday.