Playtech Expects EBITDA Above €300 Million Driven by Americas Growth
United Kingdom – 12 November 2026 – www.zonadeazar.com Playtech, an international gambling technology provider, has raised its financial outlook for 2026 following stronger-than-expected performance across the United States, Mexico and Colombia.
The company now expects adjusted EBITDA to exceed €300 million for the full year, surpassing analyst forecasts ranging from €271 million to €285 million.
The trading update, published on 10 November, covers the period between 1 July and 31 October 2026.
Hard Rock Digital Drives US Performance
One of the main contributors to growth was Playtech’s strategic partnership with Hard Rock Digital.
The collaboration enabled the launch of a product based on historical motor racing results, known as Past Motor Racing (PMR), in the US market.
Playtech highlighted that its first-to-market position generated significant commercial benefits during the first half of the year.
The product continued performing strongly during the second half of 2026, contributing to the company’s profitability and cash generation.
However, Playtech expects stronger competition during 2027 as other suppliers introduce similar products.
Mexico and Colombia Strengthen Regional Growth
Alongside its US operations, Playtech highlighted positive performance in Mexico and Colombia.
Both markets benefited from increased commercial activity following the 2026 Men’s FIFA World Cup.
The company believes these results reinforce Latin America’s importance within its international growth strategy.
During the first half of 2026, Playtech’s underlying Latin American revenue increased by 29% year-on-year, while the United States and Canada recorded combined growth of 161%.
These figures provide context for the company’s regional momentum rather than representing third-quarter results.
Financial Outlook Exceeds Market Expectations
Playtech’s revised forecast is above the consensus estimates of financial analysts.
Before the announcement, seven analysts expected adjusted EBITDA for 2026 to range between €271 million and €285 million, with an average forecast of €279 million.
The company now expects to exceed €300 million, surpassing the upper end of its previously established medium-term financial target of €250 million to €300 million.
The upgrade reflects the positive contribution of technology investments and commercial partnerships with international operators.
Brazil Creates Uncertainty for 2027
Despite the positive results, Playtech warned about the consequences of Brazil’s recent online gambling prohibition.
The company believes it can absorb approximately three months of financial impact during 2026.
However, it expects a more significant effect on earnings in 2027 if the Brazilian market remains closed.
Regulatory uncertainty is affecting the commercial outlook for suppliers and operators that invested in the country’s previously licensed market.
Playtech will continue monitoring political and legal developments in Brazil.
UK Tax Increase Adds Pressure
Another factor affecting future performance is the increase in the United Kingdom’s online gambling taxation.
From 1 April 2026, Remote Gaming Duty increased from 21% to 40%.
Playtech stated that it continues to absorb the commercial consequences of this change.
The company also expects 2027 to be the first full financial year under the higher rate, alongside additional tax increases in other European markets.
These developments could affect operators’ profit margins and investment decisions.
Statements from Mor Weizer
Mor Weizer, CEO of Playtech, highlighted the company’s strong performance throughout 2026 and the importance of regulated markets across the Americas.
He explained that the partnership with Hard Rock Digital continues contributing significantly to profitability and cash flow, while Mexico and Colombia remain important growth markets.
Looking ahead to 2027, Weizer identified three main challenges:
- Increasing competition from PMR suppliers in the United States.
- Political and regulatory uncertainty in Brazil.
- The full-year impact of higher UK gambling taxation.
Despite these pressures, he expressed confidence in Playtech’s technology capabilities and expansion opportunities.
Industry Impact and Next Steps
Playtech’s performance demonstrates the growing importance of the Americas within the international gambling technology industry.
The company will continue prioritising expansion across regulated and regulating markets, supported by commercial partnerships and proprietary technology.
In 2027, the main challenge will be maintaining growth across North and Latin America while navigating higher taxes, regulatory changes and increasing competition.
With adjusted EBITDA expected to exceed €300 million, Playtech is strengthening its financial performance in 2026 through growth in the United States, Mexico and Colombia, while preparing for a more challenging operating environment next year.
Editó: @fonta
