Paddy Power plc has merged with Betfair Group plc

Two of the fastest growing online betting operators — Paddy Power plc and Betfair Group plc — have merged. The new entity, Paddy Power Betfair plc, is worth c. US$11 billion, making it one of the world’s largest public online betting and gaming companies by revenue with enlarged scale, capability and distinctive complementary brands.

Paddy Power is an international multi-channel betting and gaming group, offering online services and a chain of retail outlets throughout Ireland, Northern Ireland and Great Britain.

Betfair is an innovative online betting and gaming operator, which pioneered the betting exchange model in 2000, changing the landscape of the sports betting industry.

Paddy Power Betfair has a market-leading presence in the UK, Ireland, Australia and the USA, as well as a range of B2C and B2B operations across Europe. Since the initial proposed merger announcement, the combined equity value has increased by c. 70%, reflecting the resounding shareholder and market support for the transaction. Paddy Power Betfair will join the FTSE 100 index and will also be a constituent of MSCI European large-cap indices.

The merger was implemented by Paddy Power plc making an all paper offer for Betfair Group plc. Oaklins' team in Ireland advised Paddy Power on, inter alia, negotiation of the merger terms, deal management, financial analysis, development of the investment story and stakeholder management. Our Irish team has been a longstanding advisor to Paddy Power, advising on public offer issues, acquisition strategy and the acquisition of Sportsbet Australia (alongside Oaklins' Australian team) and Cayetano.