Playtech Reports Strong H1 2026 Trading as US Growth Lifts Outlook
Playtech has raised its expectations for 2026 after reporting a stronger-than-expected first half, with growth in the Americas driving results ahead of market forecasts.
The gaming technology company said trading between January and June 2026 exceeded expectations, supported by a particularly strong showing in the United States along with continued progress in Mexico, Colombia, and selected European markets. Playtech expects adjusted EBITDA for the first six months of the year to come in above €155 million.
Shares in Playtech plc rose almost 20 per cent in London following the announcement, reaching 381.03 pence per share after investors responded to the improved outlook.
US Momentum Lifts First-Half Performance
Playtech said activity in the Americas continued to improve during May and June. The company pointed to its relationship with Hard Rock Digital as a key contributor to its recent results, with the operator becoming one of Playtech’s largest customers.
The company said it had gained from being the first provider to introduce a new product based on Past Motor Racing (PMR) results with Hard Rock Digital. Playtech expects revenue from the operator to continue at a lower but more sustainable level during the second half of 2026 and into 2027.
Chief Executive Officer Mor Weizer said: “We achieved an excellent performance in the first half of 2026, reflecting continued momentum in regulated markets, notably the Americas and certain European markets. Performance in the US, driven by our partnership with Hard Rock Digital, has been exceptionally strong, and we are delighted to see returns on our investments over recent years accelerate and contribute significantly to profitability and cash flow.
Playtech continues to further establish itself in regulated and emerging markets going into the second half of the year, and we are pleased with the progress towards our medium-term targets. We look forward to publishing our interim results in a few weeks.”
Company Expects Second-Half Earnings to Moderate
Although Playtech delivered a strong opening six months, management expects adjusted EBITDA in the second half of 2026 to be lower than in the first half.
The company said this reflects several factors, including changes in revenue levels from the Hard Rock Digital partnership and ongoing investment connected with a major agreement in Brazil. Playtech has been preparing for the expected signing and launch of that partnership, which is expected to start contributing to growth in 2027.
The company will also face the full effect of the increased Remote Gaming Duty in the UK during the second half of the year. The higher duty came into effect in April 2026.
Following the improved first-half performance, Playtech now expects adjusted EBITDA for the full year ending 31 December 2026 to reach at least €270 million. This is above current analyst expectations, which were between €205 million and €225 million.
Live Casino Strength Supports Early 2026 Growth
Playtech started 2026 with improved trading across regulated markets, helped by steady live casino results and continued expansion in the Americas. The company said its US operations have benefited from previous investments, while Mexico and parts of Europe also showed positive progress.
CEO Mor Weizer described the year’s opening months as an “excellent” start, with returns from recent investments contributing more to profitability. Playtech highlighted its Caliente Interactive partnership in Mexico as an important growth area, with the FIFA World Cup expected to provide further opportunities.
Playtech’s BetBuddy Wins Industry Award for Safer Gambling Tools
Playtech has received the Product Innovation Award at the Italian Gaming Expo & Conference for BetBuddy, its safer gambling technology platform. The recognition highlights the role of the solution in helping improve player protection practices across regulated markets.
The award reflects Playtech’s continued focus on responsible gambling and the work of its teams in developing technology designed to support safer gaming environments. The company said the achievement recognizes the contribution of those involved in creating BetBuddy.
Source:
Trading Update & Notice of H1 2026 Interim Results, otp.tools.investis.com, July 9, 2026.
