Entain plc (LSE:ENT) has reported a 2% increase in group net gaming revenue (NGR) for the third quarter of 2026, supported by growth in its UK and Ireland operations, while trading in Brazil and customer-favourable sports betting results affected performance in other markets.
The international sports betting and gaming group recorded 3% growth in online NGR during the period, with gaming activity contributing to revenue growth despite the impact of sports results that favoured customers.
Entain’s UK and Ireland business reported an 8% increase in overall NGR, including 14% growth in online revenue.
The company said the performance reflected increased activity across its domestic operations and contributed to market share gains during the quarter.
Online operations in New Zealand, Spain and Canada also recorded double-digit revenue growth, providing additional contributions to the group’s international trading performance.
However, Entain reported a substantial decline in Brazil, which offset part of the growth achieved elsewhere in the business.
The company also identified customer-favourable sports betting outcomes as a factor affecting revenue during the quarter.
Full-Year 2026 Guidance Maintained
Following the third-quarter trading performance, Entain reaffirmed its financial guidance for the year ending December 2026.
The group continues to expect online net gaming revenue growth of between 4% and 6% for the full year.
Underlying EBITDA is forecast to be towards the lower end of the previously announced range of £910 million to £960 million.
The guidance reflects management’s current expectations for trading across its online and retail businesses, including the effects of differing market conditions and sports betting results.
Entain also confirmed that BetMGM, its US joint venture, expects its full-year revenue and EBITDA to be towards the lower end of its respective guidance ranges.
The supplied update did not specify the monetary values of BetMGM’s guidance ranges.
Central and Eastern European Portfolio Restructuring
Entain reported further progress in its planned phased withdrawal from Central and Eastern European (CEE) operations.
The group confirmed a divestment involving a 20% ownership stake as part of its strategy to reduce its exposure to the region.
The transaction forms part of Entain’s wider portfolio management activities, which include reviewing its geographical operations and allocating resources across its remaining markets.
The company did not provide additional financial terms or a detailed timetable for completing the wider CEE exit in the supplied update.
UK Gambling Tax Developments
Entain also addressed the potential implications of further increases in UK gambling taxation.
Management warned that additional tax rises could affect the financial viability of retail betting shops, particularly where operating costs and tax obligations increase relative to revenue.
The company operates a substantial retail betting estate in the United Kingdom, alongside its online sports betting and gaming businesses.
Entain said changes to the UK gambling tax framework could influence the economics of its retail operations and future business decisions.
The group continues to monitor regulatory and fiscal developments while maintaining its existing financial guidance.
Management also reiterated its focus on long-term cash generation, supported by the group’s online operations, retail network and international gaming activities.
The third-quarter update reflects revenue growth in several markets, particularly the UK and Ireland, alongside lower revenue in Brazil and the impact of customer-favourable sports results.
About Entain plc
Entain plc (LSE:ENT) is an international sports betting and gaming company operating online and retail businesses across the United Kingdom, Ireland and other international markets.
The group’s activities include sports wagering, online casino gaming and retail betting services.
Entain operates through a portfolio of consumer brands and maintains a presence in regulated gambling markets.
Its operations also include BetMGM, a joint venture focused on the United States sports betting and gaming market.
The company’s business strategy encompasses digital gaming operations, retail betting, regulatory compliance and the management of its international portfolio.
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