Entain to Leave FTSE 100 Following Share Price Slump
United Kingdom.- 8 September 2026 | www.zonadeazar.com Entain will leave the FTSE 100 after six years in London’s benchmark equity index following a sharp decline in its share price and market valuation.
The Ladbrokes owner will be removed from the index at the close of trading on 18 September and will join the FTSE 250 from 21 September.
Six Years in the FTSE 100
Entain entered the FTSE 100 in June 2020.
Its shares initially recorded substantial growth during the early part of its membership.
The stock climbed from approximately £7.60 to £18 within a year before reaching a peak of £21.56 in October 2021.
More Than 75% Below Peak
The company’s share-price trajectory has changed significantly since that high.
At the time its FTSE 100 departure was confirmed, Entain shares stood at around £5.23.
That puts the stock more than 75% below its October 2021 peak.
Move to FTSE 250
FTSE Russell confirmed that Entain and housebuilder Persimmon will be removed from the FTSE 100.
Both companies will move into the FTSE 250.
They will be replaced in the benchmark index by:
- Ithaca Energy.
- EasyJet.
The changes follow the latest periodic review of the UK equity indices.
Pressure on Share Price
Entain’s share-price decline has been accompanied by several factors affecting investor sentiment over recent years.
These have included expectations around growth, operational performance, regulatory developments and the performance of strategically important businesses.
One of the latest pressure points involved BetMGM.
BetMGM Outlook
At the end of July, BetMGM said it expected full-year net revenue and adjusted EBITDA to come in at the lower end of its guidance ranges.
BetMGM is jointly owned by Entain and MGM Resorts International.
The update triggered another decline in Entain’s share price.
First-Half Performance Beat Expectations
Entain’s FTSE 100 departure comes despite a stronger-than-expected performance during the first half of 2026.
Net gaming revenue increased 5% on a constant-currency basis to approximately £2.55 billion.
The result was supported in part by strong customer engagement during the early stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Contrast Between Operations and Valuation
The figures highlight a contrast between Entain’s recent operating performance and its stock-market valuation.
While several business metrics improved during the first half, the share price remains significantly below levels reached five years ago.
FTSE index membership is ultimately driven by relative market capitalisation rather than operating performance alone.
Remote Gaming Duty Impact
The UK gaming sector is also adjusting to a significantly heavier tax environment.
Remote Gaming Duty increased from 21% to 40%, creating additional pressure for online gaming businesses.
Entain believes its scale can help it absorb those costs more effectively than some smaller competitors.
Market Share Gains
Entain Chief Financial Officer Michael Snape said the group has been gaining market share as mid-tier operators struggle to absorb the impact of the higher tax burden.
The company is seeking to use its scale and established brand portfolio to strengthen its competitive position.
Importance of FTSE 100 Membership
The FTSE 100 comprises some of the largest companies listed on the London Stock Exchange by market capitalisation.
Membership provides significant international visibility and exposure to investment funds and financial products tracking the benchmark.
Moving to the FTSE 250 therefore represents an important change in Entain’s stock-market position.
Industry Context
International betting companies are operating in an environment characterised by tighter regulation, increased taxation and growing competition across both established and emerging markets.
For listed groups, these factors also affect investor expectations around growth, profitability and shareholder returns.
Entain’s performance illustrates how positive operating results can coexist with sustained pressure on equity valuation.
Next Steps or Impact
Entain will remain a constituent of the FTSE 100 until the close of trading on 18 September 2026.
It will join the FTSE 250 from 21 September.
The group will seek to maintain operating growth, increase market share and rebuild investor confidence while navigating a more demanding regulatory and tax environment in key jurisdictions including the UK.
Editó: @fonta
