Summary
- Bet365 is considering selling part or all of its private ownership.
- The company is reportedly considering selling a portion of its stake before listing on the U.S. stock exchange.
- Denise Coates, the owner of Bet365, could secure up to £5 billion from a possible sale.
Bet365, one of the most influential private gambling companies, is reportedly in discussions with Wall Street banks and U.S. advisors about partially or completely selling its assets and potentially going public through an Initial Public Offering (IPO) in the United States.
Partial or full sale of Bet365 to precede public listing
According to the Guardian, a reputable UK media outlet, sources have revealed that there are ongoing discussions about selling a portion of bet365 to a private equity investor. The Coates family, who founded and currently control the company, would maintain a stake following the partial sale. This move could lead to the business pursuing an IPO. The potential acquisition of bet365 is valued at £9 billion, and Denise Coates, the 57-year-old majority owner of the company, stands to gain substantially. With her 58% ownership, she could earn £5 billion from the transaction. Bet365 has consistently delivered strong financial performance, benefiting from the booming sports betting market in the United States. While the company has yet to achieve significant market penetration, it has established strong positions and invested heavily in local operations. This strategic approach has helped it thrive in the competitive sports betting industry in the U.S., despite facing challenges like increased taxes, tighter regulations, and reduced margins due to heightened competition. Currently, bet365 operates in 13 states and is planning further expansions, demonstrating its resilience amidst broader market challenges.
Good exit option for Denise Coates
Paul Leyland, director of the gambling consultancy Regulus Partners, has expressed opinions on a potential sale and public listing, suggesting it could provide a favorable exit for Coates while presenting investors with a successful example in the gambling industry for those looking to invest wisely. Bet365's progress is notably different from that of PENN Entertainment, which is struggling to make an impact in the U.S. sports betting market, despite having the recognizable ESPN Bet brand that should attract sports fans. Bet365 has faced some controversy, particularly due to its involvement in the Chinese market, where it operates illegally. However, the company announced in early 2025 that it plans to gradually cease operations there. Meanwhile, bet365 continues to expand steadily in new markets, especially in Latin America.
