Playtech Raises Full-Year 2026 EBITDA Guidance After Strong First Half Performance
2026-07-09
Source: iGaming Future
Playtech has increased its full-year 2026 adjusted EBITDA guidance to at least €270 million, following a strong first half driven by growth in the Americas, particularly the US. The company expects over €155 million in adjusted EBITDA for H1 2026 but anticipates a moderation in the second half due to specific product cycles, investment in Brazil, and the full impact of the UK's Remote Gaming Duty.
Playtech has announced an upward revision to its earnings forecast for the full year 2026, attributing the change to an exceptional first-half performance that surpassed initial market projections. The iGaming technology provider highlighted significant growth in the Americas as a key driver.
For the six-month period ending June 30, 2026, Playtech anticipates reporting an adjusted EBITDA exceeding €155 million. This impressive result was fueled by substantial expansion in the United States, alongside consistent strong trading activity in Latin American markets such as Mexico and Colombia, and select European regions. The company observed a notable acceleration in its Americas operations during May and June.
Building on this momentum, Playtech now projects its adjusted EBITDA for the entire fiscal year 2026 to reach a minimum of €270 million. This updated target places the company's expectations above the current consensus among financial analysts.
Looking ahead, Playtech forecasts that its adjusted EBITDA for the second half of 2026 will be lower than the first half. Several factors contribute to this expectation, including the anticipated moderation of revenue from its Past Motor Racing (PMR) product, which saw an initial surge after launching with Hard Rock Digital. While Hard Rock Digital will remain a significant client, the partnership's revenue is expected to stabilize at a more sustainable level through late 2026 and into 2027. Additionally, the company is undertaking substantial investments in a planned partnership in Brazil, with revenue contributions from this venture not expected until 2027. The full financial impact of the increased UK Remote Gaming Duty, enacted in April 2026, will also be absorbed in the latter half of the year.
Mor Weizer, Playtech’s Chief Executive Officer, commented on the results, stating, "We achieved an excellent performance in the first half of 2026, reflecting continued momentum in regulated markets, notably the Americas and certain European markets." He further emphasized, "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 is scheduled to release its detailed interim results for the first six months of 2026 on September 10, 2026.