Rio Stars

What is Rio Stars?

The Wednesday announcement promised the merger of the two listed gaming giants would create the second-largest listed global gaming and sports betting operator, with a pro forma adjusted EBITDA of approximately €2 billion ($2.3 billion).

Angelozzi, who is set to lead the combined company as CEO, told analysts on the post-announcement call that the deal was expected to be a “low-risk proposition” given the consistent growth demonstrated by both Lottomatica and Cirsa in recent years.

Between H1 2024 to H1 2026, Lottomatica and Cirsa have grown their revenues at CAGRs of 13% and 11% respectively.

What is Rio Stars?

“ARGN was created because problem gambling is becoming a bigger issue across Africa and most responsible gambling efforts still happen within individual countries,” Akolade tells iGB. “While many organisations are doing great work, there has been limited opportunity to learn from each other, share research, or work together on common challenges.

“We felt there was a gap for a continent-wide network that could connect organisations, encourage collaboration, and help build a stronger collective voice on player protection. ARGN is not here to replace national organisations or regulators. Its purpose is to support and strengthen the work already being done by bringing people and organisations together.”

But while the ARGN intends to enhance collaboration between stakeholders across the continent, Akolade asserts the aim is to promote “common principles rather than identical regulations”.

How to play Rio Stars

Mobile-first games developer OneTouch has launched its highly acclaimed gaming suite with Latin American brand Sellatuparley. The LatAm-based operator will introduce its extensive player base to OneTouch’s widely celebrated collection of slots, table and arcade games, including perennial player favourites Forgotten Pharaoh, MVP Hoops and Tiki Terror.

The supplier has gone from strength-to-strength on the continent, having extended its reach through comprehensive commercial partnerships with the likes of Jazz Gaming Solutions.

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