Weekend Report: Revised Playtech-Caliplay deal approved, Allwyn confirms new loan, Pagcor orders licensee to pull ads from TV show

Revised Playtech-Caliplay arrangement approved in Mexico

First, Playtech has secured antitrust approval in Mexico for its revised strategic agreement with Caliplay.

Announced on 21 March, this approval will allow Playtech and Caliplay to proceed with their planned changes. Both parties expect the revised deal to come into effect on 31 March.

It should signal the end of a long-running saga between the two companies battling over unpaid fees. This related to uncertainties from Caliplay holding an option to redeem additional services fees from its strategic agreement with Playtech.

In September last year, Playtech and Caliplay sought to end the dispute by agreeing to terms on a new deal. This included Caliplay resuming paying its disputed software and services fees to Playtech.

Other elements include Playtech holding a 30.8% interest in Caliplay’s new US-incorporated holding company, Caliente Interactive. The two parties will also initiate a revised eight-year B2B software licence and services agreement.

Allwyn secures €450 million term loan B facility

Meanwhile, Allwyn International has secured a seven-year €475 million (£398 million/$515 million) term loan B facility.

Confirmed late last week, the successful syndication follows an initial announcement earlier this month. Allwyn Entertainment Financing (UK) will act as borrower, under a new senior facility agreement.

In addition, Allwyn has signed off on a $75 million fully fungible add-on to its existing USD term loan B, due 2031.

Proceeds from both will be used to repay existing indebtedness, general corporate purposes and to pay transaction fees and expenses.

“I’m pleased that with this transaction we have once again demonstrated the strength of investor support for our credit story on both sides of the Atlantic, as well as our continued focus on optimising the diversification, resilience and efficiency of our capital structure,” said Kenneth Morton, chief financial officer of Allwyn.

Sweden’s BOS welcomes BetConstruct as member

In other news, the Swedish Trade Association for Online Gambling (BOS) has announced BetConstruct as its latest member.

The technology and gaming solutions provider is already active in Sweden, with its B2C brand VBET holding a licence. BetConstruct said its BOS membership supports its ongoing efforts to support the growth of igaming in the country.

“This allows us to collaborate with key industry stakeholders to promote responsible gaming, innovation and a fair competitive environment in Sweden,” said Shacke Manukyan, head of compliance at BetConstruct.

BOS secretary general Gustaf Hoffstedt added: “With BetConstruct, we are strengthening our expertise not only in the business to consumer area, but also as a game supplier.”

Rush Street Interactive adds former Delaware governor to board

In the US, Rush Street Interactive has announced the addition of Jack Markell to its board of directors.

Markell formerly served as the governor of Delaware, after first winning elected office in 1999 as state treasurer. He was also ambassador to Italy and San Marino and ambassador to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development in France.

Prior to entering public service, Markell held executive positions for Comcast, Nextel and McKinsey and Company.

“We’re excited to welcome Jack to our board,” Rush Street Interactive CEO Richard Schwartz said. “His experience in business and government will be invaluable as we continue to expand our footprint across the Americas and enhance our offerings.”

Pagcor orders licensee to pull ads from offensive show

Finally this week, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) has ordered one of its licensees to pull advertising from an online TV programme deemed offensive.

Pagcor did not reveal the name of the programme in question but did state that it featured bra-less women. The regulator also did not disclose the identity of the licensee involved.

In its statement published last week, Pagcor said removing advertising would help to ensure the integrity of the local gaming industry. The regulator was informed about the issue via an online podcast.

Pagcor also confirmed the licensee involved does not own the online TV programme.

“We will not tolerate such advertising support by any of our licensees for such a demeaning and sex-oriented show,” said Jeremy Luglug, assistant vice president for the electronic gaming and licensing department at Pagcor.