Boyd Gaming Expresses Interest in Acquiring Penn Entertainment
As reported by Reuters, Boyd Gaming has approached Penn Entertainment with an interest in acquiring the company, which has a market value exceeding $9 billion, including debt.
This potential merger would mark one of the most significant deals in the U.S. gambling sector since Eldorado Resorts’ $17.3 billion acquisition of Caesars Entertainment in 2020.
Market Reactions and Financial Considerations
Following the news, Penn’s shares surged 8% to $19.89, while Boyd’s stock dropped 3% to $51.90. Boyd, being the smaller entity with a market value of $7.8 billion, would require substantial financial resources to secure the acquisition.
The deal would also necessitate approval from regulators and officials across multiple states where both companies operate.
In addition to regulatory hurdles, Boyd would need to gain the support of Walt Disney, which has a partnership with Penn through its sports network ESPN.
The future of this deal remains uncertain, as there is no guarantee that Penn will enter negotiations with Boyd. Representatives for Penn, Boyd, and Disney have not commented on the matter.
Penn Entertainment’s Operations and Recent Deals
Penn Entertainment operates 43 casinos and racetracks in 20 U.S. states and offers online sports betting and casino gambling in several locations. Last year, Penn entered into a $1.5 billion licensing agreement with Disney, allowing the use of the ESPN brand for its online sportsbook.
This deal includes an initial 10-year term for Penn’s rights to the ESPN Bet brand, and ESPN holds options worth approximately $500 million to purchase Penn stock.
The ESPN deal has been a positive development for Penn CEO Jay Snowden, especially following the troubled acquisition of Barstool Sports, which was sold back to its founder Dave Portnoy for $1 after an initial $550 million purchase.
Additionally, Penn acquired Score Media and Gaming for $2.1 billion in 2021. Despite these investments, some activist investors, including the Donerail Group, have criticized Penn for its significant spending on digital ventures without substantial returns, urging the company to consider a sale.
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