Flutter Entertainment Announces $1.05 Billion Debt Sale to Optimize Capital Structure
Flutter Entertainment has sold $1.05 billion in senior secured notes that will mature in 2029 as part of the company’s strategy to restructure its debt and enhance financial flexibility.
Purpose of the Debt Sale
The proceeds from this debt offering, which comprises both dollar- and euro-denominated bonds, will be allocated towards repaying borrowings under a credit facility that Flutter secured back in July 2018.
Additionally, funds will be used to clear debts under the existing multi-currency revolving credit facility. This strategic financial maneuver is designed to streamline the company’s debt profile and reduce overall borrowing costs.
The company, primarily listed on the London Stock Exchange (LSE), is now seeking to shift its primary listing to the NYSE in a bid to widen its investor base and tap into more dynamic capital markets. This transition is set to be discussed with investors at the company’s upcoming annual meeting.
Positive Shift in Credit Outlook
Concurrently with the debt sale, S&P Global Ratings has issued a “BBB-” rating for the new Flutter debt and reaffirmed the company’s overall credit grade at “BB+.” More notably, S&P has revised Flutter’s credit outlook from ‘stable’ to ‘positive.’
The research firm emphasized Flutter’s effective management of its leverage, which is moving towards a healthier ratio of 3.0x S&P Global Ratings-adjusted leverage. This, coupled with robust free operating cash flow (FOCF) generation and a consistent financial policy, supports the improved outlook.
FanDuel’s Impact on Flutter’s Profitability
Flutter owns a commanding 95% stake in FanDuel, currently the largest online sportsbook operator in the U.S. S&P’s report underlines the role of the U.S. market in Flutter’s portfolio, noting the company’s leading position with 53.4% of the online sports betting market share (based on net revenue) and 26% of the iGaming market as of the fourth quarter of 2023.
Looking ahead, Flutter estimates that the U.S. addressable sports betting and iGaming market will expand to over $40 billion by 2030, up from $9 billion in 2022.
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