888 Holdings Gets Maltese Gambling License to Avoid Brexit Damages

888 Holdings, a gambling giant listed on the London Stock Exchange recently said that it had earned a double-digit profit growth after its strong expansion plans were executed. The company is also trying to offset the impact of Brexit on its business, for which it acquired a gambling license in Malta. The license will help the company in navigating the stricter regulatory regime in the UK post the EU-divorce.

The gambling operator further noted that it had established a server in Ireland as well which will help it in serving its European customers better and reduce the harm that Brexit brings. In the UK, the government is concerned with the rising issue of problem gambling as well as underage gambling. It is taking steps to counter the problem, and the industry also faces an advertising ban during live sporting events before the 9 pm watershed.

According to 888 Holdings CEO Itai Pazner, the company’s performance in 2018 is resilient despite the business facing difficulties in some areas. He also said that the group is experiencing consistent growth in numerous regulated markets, especially in continental Europe. Its sports betting and casino operations are also witnessing good momentum. The positive results of 2018 are also being experienced in the first quarter of 2019. The average daily revenue of the company this year has increased by 10% over the fourth quarter of 2018.

The company’s revenue fell slightly from £414.9 million in 2017 to £414 million in 2018. However, its pre-tax profit marked a stable growth to £83.2 million in 2018 from £14.4 million in 2017. The core market of the company suffered a decline last year. The revenue generated in the UK in 2018 was £130.6 million, 16% lower than in 2017. The tightening regulatory policies are behind the loss.

The company isn’t discouraged by the trends. Panzer said that trading during the new fiscal jumped by 5% on constant currency basis year-on-year. However, it doesn’t want to keep its eyes on the complex UK market alone. Overseas positions will help it remain stable as it scales globally.