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GROUPE PARTOUCHE: Income 1st half year 2020/2021 – Operating performance impacted by the health issue

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During the meeting it held on the 29th of June 2021 and after having reviewed the management report of Groupe Partouche Executive Board, the Supervisory Board examined the audited accounts for the 1st half-year 2020-2021 (November to April).

Operation performance impacted by the health issue

The Covid 19 pandemic penalized the business activity during the first half of the current financial year by the interruption of the Group’s activities over the period, with the exception of the following reopening:

  • Djerba casino (Tunisia): open during the 1st half-year but forced into a curfew;
  • Meyrin casino (Switzerland): open between the 14th and the 26th December 2020 but on reduced hours;
  • Meyrin et de Crans-Montana casinos (Switzerland): reopening on 19th April 2021, without curfew but with health constraints;
  • Belgium online gaming & betting: accessible throughout the half-year;
  • Switzerland new online gaming: accessible since its launching on 16th November 2020.

The Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) over the period decreased by -80.9% compared to the previous year, reaching € 50.0 M and the turnover by -74.3% at € 47.2 M.

The Group’s EBITDA fell to -€ 42.0 M, compared to +€ 29.8 M in the first half of 2020.

The current operating income (COI) stood at -€ 73.2 M compared to +€ 0.3 M for the previous year, a degradation directly correlated with the interruption of the activity and therefore of the turnover.

Under activity divisions, the casinos’ COI reached -€ 68.2 M, compared to +€ 6.6 M in 2020 impacted by the closing of all the Group’s casinos over the period, with the exception of the Ostend casino COI with an increase of € 1.1 M thanks to the online COI.

The COI of the hotels’ division slightly decreased to -€ 2.2 M compared to -€ 1.7 M in 2020. The Aquabella hotel at Aix-en-Provence remained open over the whole period with an idling activity while the Cosmos hotel at Contrexéville remained closed.

Lastly, the deficit of COI of the “Other” division improved at -€ 2.8 M on the 1st half-year 2021, compared to -€ 4.7 M in 2020, mainly due to the significant increase of COI of Belgian sports betting (+€ 1,0 M).

Purchases & external expenses decreased by € 7.4 M (-10.9%) mainly impacted by:

  • Material purchases, advertising/marketing costs, upkeep and maintenance costs down by € 11.2 M (-69.7%), € 7.9 M (-78.4%) and € 1.4 M (-33.7%) respectively directly linked to the closure of establishments and the drop in revenue from ancillary activities;
  • Conversely, the change in subcontracting costs (+€ 16.6 M), mainly linked (i) to the increase in costs associated with online licenses in Belgium, i.e. +€ 19.6 M in costs correlatively to the increase in the turnover of this activity (online casino and sports betting); and (ii) savings in subcontracting (guarding, cleaning) made in view of the closure of establishments.

Within the above development, the increase of +€ 2.0 M in purchases and external expenses relating to the “online casino” in Switzerland, which started on 16th November 2020, should be noted.

Personnel expenses amounted to € 31.5 M, down € 42.0 M (-57.2%) following in particular the allowances received for partial unemployment from which the Group benefits, to which are added the employer’s contributions savings generated as well as the exemptions / subsidiaries obtained as part of the business assistance measures put in place by the Government in response to the health crisis.

The non-current operating income is a net expense of -€ 8.6 M, compared to -€ 2.7 M in 1st half-year 2020. In Belgium, an old dispute was won against the Belgian State leading to a non-current profit of € 5.8 M. Conversely, the continuation of the health crisis led the Group to carry out goodwill additional impairment tests from the half-yearly closing. Thus, goodwill impairment in the first half of 2021 totalled -€ 15.0 M.

In the end, the net income is a loss of € 88.0 M, compared to a loss of € 3.9 M as of 30th April 2020, after taking into account the following elements:

  • a financial result of -€ 2.3 M (compared to -€ 0.8 M in 1st half-year 2020), which does not benefit from any exchange gain due to the closure of casinos on both sides of the Franco-Swiss border and whose financial expenses reverse slightly (-€ 0.2 M) in connection with the increase in the Group’s indebtedness while the half-yearly average interest rate continued to decline;
  • a significant increase in tax (CVAE included) (-€ 4.0 M compared to -€ 0.6 M in 1st half-year 2020).

The Group’s financial structure remains healthy and solid with “cash net of levies” of € 104.1 M, shareholders’ equity of € 283.2 M and a “net debt” of € 149.7 M (set up as provided by the terms of the syndicated loan agreement, according to the former IAS 17 standard, excluding IFRS 16).

RECENT EVENTS & OUTLOOK

Ratio of leverage

Given the consequences of the health crisis on the Group’s business and the results for the half-year, the calculation of the leverage ratio at 30th April 2021 was impossible due to a negative EBIDTA. However, the Group’s financial partners have renewed their confidence in it.

Thus, the Syndicated Loan Agent, on 9th June 2021, signed a letter on behalf of the Lenders in which the later waives:

  • each of the leverage ratio calculations provided for on the two closing dates of 30th April 2021 and 31st October 2021; and
  • the delivery of each of the certificates corresponding to the leverage ratio calculations on the above dates.

Likewise, on 15th June 2021, the institutional investor carrying EuroPP waived the same ratio calculations and the delivery of certificates.

Reopening the casinos

All of the casinos in the Group have reopened:

  • In France, since 19th May and based on a progressive schedule :
  • Starting 19th May: only slot machines and electronic table games were accessible. A gauge equal to 35% of the areas receiving public (ERP) of each establishment had to be respected. Casinos opened until 9:00 p.m. under the curfew and catering was only permitted on the terrace;
  • Starting 9th June: opening of table games. The gauge rose to 50% of the ERP capacity, the casinos were open until 11 p.m. and the indoor dining areas were open again, with a limit of six people per table. In addition, the health pass was required in establishments where the operator planned to accommodate more than 1,000 people;
  • Starting 20th June: general lifting of the curfew ten days in advance, the other constraints being maintained;
  • Starting 30th June: the players are hosted in usual conditions with respect for the health barrier gestures (wearing a mask, physical distancing, etc.).
  • In Switzerland, since 19th April, no curfew but some restrictions (10 m² per person, no catering, no smoking even in smoking rooms).
  • In Belgium, since 9th June, with an obligation to close at 11:30 p.m.
  • In Tunisia, the Djerba casino remained opened during the whole half-year but had to close between the 9th and the 16th May.

Overall, gaming activities have picked up in a very satisfying trend.

Upcoming events:

– 3rd quarter financial information: Wednesday 15th September 2021, after Paris stock market close

– Turnover 4th quarter: Wednesday 15th December 2021, after Paris stock market close

Groupe Partouche was established in 1973 and has grown to become one of the market leaders in Europe in its business sector. Listed on the stock exchange, it operates casinos, a gaming club, hotels, restaurants, spas and golf courses. The Group operates 42 casinos and employs nearly 4,100 people. It is well known for innovating and testing the games of tomorrow, which allows it to be confident about its future, while aiming to strengthen its leading position and continue to enhance its profitability. Groupe Partouche was floated on the stock exchange in 1995, and is listed on Euronext Paris, Compartment

 

Annex

Consolidated Income

In €M – At 30th April (6 months) 2021 2020 ECART Var.
Turnover 47.2 183.6 (136.4) -74.3%
Purchases & external expenses (60.6) (68.0) 7.4 -10.9%
Tax & duties (5.6) (8.8) 3.1 -35.6%
Employees expenses (31.5) (73.6) 42.0 -57.2%
Depreciation, amortisation & impairment of fixed assets (28.5) (29.0) 0.5 -1.82%
Other current income & operating expenses 5.9 (4.0) 9.9 -247.4%
Current operating income (73.2) 0.3 (73.4) n/a
Other non-current income & operating expenses 6.4 0.0 6.4
Gain (loss) on the sale of consolidated investments
Impairment of non-current assets (15.0) (2.7) (12.3)
Non-current operating income (8.6) (2.7) (5.9)
Operating income (81.8) (2.4) (79.3) n/a
Financial income (2.3) (0.8) (1.4)
Income before tax (84.0) (3.3) (80.8)
Corporate income tax (3.6) 1.0 (4.6)
CVAE tax (0.4) (1.6) 1.2
Income after tax (88.0) (3.8) (84.2)
Share in earnings of equity-accounted associates (0.0) (0.1) 0.0
Total net Income (88.0) (3.9) (84.1) n/a
o/w Group’s share (81.6) (5.3) (76.3)
EBITDA (*) (42.0) 29.8 (71.8) n/a
Margin EBITDA / Turnover n/a 16,2% n/a

(*) taking into account the application of IFRS 16 in the half-year, which has the mechanical effect of improving EBITDA by €7.3 M.

Taxes and duties represent an expense of € 5.6 M down by –35.6%.

The change in amortization and depreciation on fixed assets, down -1.82% to € 28.5 M, reflects the slowdown in the sustained investment policy of recent years, hampered by the health crisis.

Other current operating income and expenses represent a net income of € 5.9 M compared to a net expense of € 4.0M in the first half of 2020. This is mainly due to operating grants received or receivable obtained as part of the business subsidiaries measures put in place by the Government in the face of the health crisis, in particular the fixed costs subsidiaries for € 10.0 M.

The operating income stands at -€ 81.8 M against -€ 2.4 M in the first half of 2020.

Income before tax represents a loss of € 84.0 M compared to a loss of € 3.3 M in the first half of 2020.

The tax expense (including CVAE) reached € 4.0 M, compared with € 0.6 M in the first half of 2020. The exceptional income recorded in Belgium following a dispute amounts to a tax of € 1.3 M. Conversely, CVAE’s tax charge decreased due to the shutdown of the Group’s activity over the half-year. With regard to deferred taxes, the Group has adopted the cautious position of not activating, even partially, the tax losses related to tax consolidation generated over the half-year (against a deferred tax asset of +€ 1.8 M during the 1st half-year 2020).

The quota-share of earnings of equity-accounted associate remained stable and non-material.

The consolidated net Income over the half-year is a loss of € 88.0 M against a loss of € 3.9 M at 30th April 2020, of which the Group share represents a loss of € 81.6 M compared to a loss of € 5.3 M at 30th April 2020.

Balance Sheet

Total net assets at 30th April 2021 decreased, totalling € 753.7 M against € 787.7 M at 31st October 2020. The remarkable developments during the period under review are as follows:

  • A decrease in non-current assets of € 35.2 M mainly due, on the one hand, to the decrease in the “tangible fixed assets” item to the tune of -€ 17.5 M resulting from the depreciation expense for the half-year combined with the contraction in investments, and on the other hand, the decrease in the “goodwill” item for € 15.0 M, linked to the depreciation in the half-year of goodwill of certain sensitive CGUs in this crisis context;
  • An increase in current assets of € 1.3 M, mainly due to an increase in the “receivables and other debtors” item of € 12.1 M (of which an increase of € 3.3 M in receivables from social organizations due to partial unemployment indemnities receivable in the context of the Covid-19 crisis, and € 9.4 M in subsidies receivable for fixed-cost assistance); as well as “Other current assets” of € 2.3 M (in particular VAT receivables). Conversely, we note a cash consumption of € 13.2 M.

On the liabilities side, shareholders’ equity including minority interests fell from € 371.9 M as of 31st October 2020 to € 283.2 M as of 30th April 2021, weighed down by the net result for the half-year. Financial debt increased by €53.7M. Consideration should be given to:

  • the subscription, in mid-April 2021, of a second loan guaranteed by the State for € 59.5 M and new bank loans for + € 4.5 M;
  • the quarterly maturity of the syndicated loan settled on 30th April 2021 in the amount of -€ 2.7 M, the maturity of 31st January 2021 having been postponed to 2026, as well as the repayment of other bank loans for -€ 1.9 M;
  • the postponement of the 12-month maturities (in capital and, for the most part, in interest) of the Group’s bank debts, the resumption of repayments having taken place for some in March but for the majority in April 2021.

In addition, it should be noted that, due to the negative EBIDTA induced by the closure of the Group’s establishments over the half-year, the institutional investor carrying the EuroPP as well as all the banks making up the banking pool of the syndicated loan have given up the calculation of the leverage ratio provided for on the closing date of 30th April 2021. This with a retroactive effect from 30th April 30, 2021. However, the waiver having taken place after the closing, the application of IAS 1 has forced the Group to restate all of the outstanding amounts relating to the bond loan and the syndicated loan as a current share this half-year.

Financial structure – Summary of net debt

One can consider the Group’s financial structure using the following table (set up as provided by the terms of the syndicated loan contract, according to the old IAS 17 standard, excluding IFRS 16):

In €M 30/04/2021 31/10/2020 30/04/2020
Equity 283.2 371.9 384.1
Gross debt (*) 253.7 194.7 168.8
Cash less gaming levies 104.1 103.1 78.9
Net debt 149.7 91.5 89.9
Ratio Net debt / Equity (« gearing ») 0.5x 0.2x 0.2x
Ratio Net debt / Consolidated EBITDA (« leverage ») (**) N/A (***) 2.3x 1.7x

(*)The gross deb includes bank borrowings, bond loans and restated leases (with the exception of old leases restated according to the new IFRS 16 standard), accrued interest, miscellaneous loans and financial debts, bank loans and financial instruments.

(**) The EBITDA used to determine the “leverage” is calculated over a rolling 12-month period, according to the old IAS 17 standard (that is to say before application of IFRS 16), at namely € 39.8 M at 31/10/2020, and € 54.3 M at 30/04/2020.

(***)The bond and banking partners have waived the calculation of the “leverage ratio” expected at the closing date of 30th April 2021 due to negative EBITDA over the period.

Glossary

The “Gross Gaming Revenue” corresponds to the sum of the various operated games, after deduction of the payment of the winnings to the players. This amount is debited of the “levies” (i.e. tax to the State, the city halls, CSG, CRDS).

The «Gross Gaming Revenue» after deduction of the levies, becomes the “Net Gaming Revenue “, a component of the turnover.

“Current Operating Income” COI includes all the expenses and income directly related to the Group’s activities to the extent that these elements are recurrent, usual in the operating cycle or that they result from specific events or decisions pertaining to the Group’s activities.

Consolidated EBITDA is made up of the balance of income and expenses of the current operating income, excluding depreciation (allocations and reversals) and provisions (allocations and reversals) linked the Group’ business activity included in the current operating income but excluded from Ebitda due to their non-recurring nature.

George Miller (Gyorgy Molnar) started his career in content marketing and has started working as an Editor/Content Manager for our company in 2016. George has acquired many experiences when it comes to interviews and newsworthy content becoming Head of Content in 2017. He is responsible for the news being shared on multiple websites that are part of the European Gaming Media Network.

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G2’s 10yr Anniversary Celebrations Continue with their First-Ever Anime Capsule Collaboration with Solo Leveling

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  • The limited-edition G2 x Solo Leveling capsule collection launches November 14, featuring streetwear pieces that capture the spirit of a generation raised on anime, gaming, and fashion, with quiet confidence stitched into every piece
  • The capsule marks G2’s first-ever anime collaboration and Solo Leveling’s debut entry into the world of esports
  • The collection will be available for purchase exclusively via G2’s shop front
  • Solo Leveling took the anime world by storm becoming the most-rated series ever on Crunchyroll

G2, one of the world’s leading entertainment and esports brands, is proud to unveil its first-ever anime collaboration with Solo Leveling, the globally acclaimed anime phenomenon, for the launch of a limited-edition capsule collection. With gaming and anime blurring the lines more than ever, this new collaboration unites the worlds of competitive gaming, anime and street fashion, and continues to disrupt the esports fashion space.

Inspired by Solo Leveling’s signature dark visuals and its powerful, underdog narrative, the collection channels the spirit of transformation that defines both the anime and G2’s competitive ethos. The design direction is deliberately dark and understated, with flashes of lightning and sparks that echo Solo Leveling hero Jin-Woo’s bursts of power as he levels up in the shadows of underground dungeons and daily grinds. Each item in the drop balances minimalist silhouettes and tonal palettes with refined visual cues – subtle details that speak volumes to those who IYKYK.

This collaboration is more than merchandise; it is a wearable narrative, tapping into the mindset of a generation raised on glow-ups, grind culture, and story-driven self-expression. Crafted for people who exist online and offline simultaneously, the G2 x Solo Leveling capsule fits seamlessly into the language of modern high-low streetwear, designed for everyday wear while remaining rooted in story and symbolism.

Solo Leveling has quickly become one of the most successful anime series of recent years. Since its premiere in early 2024, it has built a devoted global fanbase and earned nine awards at the 2025 Crunchyroll Anime Awards, including Anime of the Year. The series tells the story of Sung Jin-Woo, a once-weak hunter who rises in secret to become the most powerful player in a gamified world, a character arc that strongly aligns with G2’s own “zero to hero” journey. The first two seasons are available to stream exclusively on Crunchyroll.

The capsule collection is the latest in a line of exclusive drops from G2, following high-profile collaborations with Ralph Lauren, Warner Bro’s Batman, and iconic lifestyle brand Smiley. It’s another step forward in G2’s journey as a cultural leader, redefining what it means to be an esports organisation.

“We’ve wanted to release an anime collaboration for the longest time so we’re more than excited to kick off our first ever anime drop with Solo Leveling. It feels like the perfect fit for G2’s story – relentless, transformative, and built from the grind up.” says Sabrina Ratih, COO of G2 Esports. “This is more than a fashion drop, it’s a statement of where gaming, anime, and street culture are headed. We’re not just celebrating a shared story of power and perseverance, we’re inviting fans to wear that story, live it and own it. This collection continues our quest to reshape esports fashion and create subtle statement pieces that bridge the gap between fandom and lifestyle.”

Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, the organisation continues to evolve from an elite competitive force into a global lifestyle brand. With over 40 million fans worldwide and entering into new ventures such as its own media house, 62, and a recent expansion into traditional sports via Gerard Piqué’s Kings League.

The G2 x Solo Leveling Capsule Collection will be available for purchase exclusively through G2’s online store g2esports.com from November 14.

 

The post G2’s 10yr Anniversary Celebrations Continue with their First-Ever Anime Capsule Collaboration with Solo Leveling appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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Clever Advertising opens new Malta office, launches fully paid work experience programme for young local talent

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Clever Advertising, a performance marketing agency for tier one iGaming operators and Fintechs, has today officially launched its new strategic office in Malta, reinforcing the island’s growing reputation as a European hub for digital and technology-driven industries.

The new office, located over two floors at the Wembley Business Centre in Msida, will serve as the company’s main base outside Portugal. Its opening marks an important step in Clever Advertising’s global expansion and will bring new career opportunities to Malta’s digital sector.

From Portugal to the world

Founded in Porto, Portugal, in 2007, Clever Advertising has grown into a global leader in affiliate and performance marketing, specialising in the iGaming and Financial Services industries. The company helps international brands attract new customers through a mix of digital advertising, SEO, mobile campaigns, influencer partnerships, and other online marketing channels. Clever Advertising operates on a partnership model – investing its own resources upfront to acquire customers for its clients and earning revenue only when those campaigns succeed.

Silvio Schembri, Minister for Economy, Enterprise and Strategic Projects commented “Clever Advertising’s decision to expand in Malta is another proof of the confidence investors continue to place in our country. Their growth reflects the direction we are taking through Malta Vision 2050, strengthening high-value sectors and creating quality careers for our youths. I particularly welcome their commitment to developing local talent through the Clever Launchpad, which aligns perfectly with our efforts to equip our youths with valuable skills in this fast-evolving sector. As a government, we will keep fostering the right environment for innovative companies to grow.”

Ivan Filletti, CEO of Gaming Malta commented: “Today, we are not only celebrating the inauguration of new offices, but also the continued strengthening of Malta’s gaming ecosystem. We are delighted to welcome Clever Advertising — a company whose energy, values, and investment in both people and interactive entertainment align with the Malta Vision 2050 framework, our roadmap for sustainable growth and resilience.”

“This is an exciting milestone for Clever Advertising,” said Alberto Simões, Managing Director for Malta. “Malta was a natural strategic choice for us. The island offers a thriving talent pool, close proximity to key clients, and a solid regulatory environment in both the Gaming and Financial Services sectors – all of which make it one of the best places in Europe to grow a tech business.

“Our company operates on a true partnership model. We invest upfront to acquire new customers for our clients and share in the resulting revenue. This success-based structure means that when our clients grow, we grow. It’s a win–win model that will directly contribute to the Maltese economy, help generate sustainable jobs, and build long-term partnerships rather than short-term campaigns.

“We’re here to be part of Malta’s business community for the long term, not only as employers, but as partners helping to advance innovation and professional skills on the island.”

Creating jobs and developing skills

The company today also announced its intention to invest in local talent development through the Clever Launchpad,  a paid work experience initiative designed for Maltese youth who have recently finished school and are not yet in work or further education.

The programme offers hands-on experience, mentorship, and international exposure within the fast-growing digital sector. Participants will also have the opportunity to spend time at Clever Advertising’s headquarters in Porto. The scheme will be fully funded by Clever Advertising.

“We believe opportunity should be accessible to everyone,” added Simões. “The Clever Launchpad scheme tackles the misconception that digital jobs at international companies in Malta aren’t for the local residents. It’s designed to open doors for young people,  even those without a university degree, and give them the chance to build a global career from right here in Malta.”

 

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Blacklyte Joins StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 as its Official Furniture Partner

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StarLadder is proud to welcome Blacklyte as the Official Furniture Partner of the StarLadder Budapest Major 2025, bringing premium-grade desks and chairs to support the world’s best Counter-Strike players during one of the biggest esports events of the year.

All player setups at the Major – including on-stage booths and backstage practice areas – will be equipped with Blacklyte’s high-performance gaming furniture, including the Blacklyte Athena Pro Gaming Chair and the Blacklyte Atlas Lite Standing Desk, designed specifically for professional esports environments.

“Comfort and stability are crucial in high-pressure matches,” said Alex Liu, Founder and CEO of Blacklyte. “We’re excited to support the players at StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 with gear that’s built for champions.

The partnership ensures that every pro player competing from December 11 to 14 will have the ergonomic support and functionality required to perform at their highest level — whether in practice or under the spotlight on stage.

“Blacklyte’s dedication to quality, design, and player comfort makes them the ideal partner for the Major,” said Viacheslav Shcherbakov, Head of Sales & Partnerships at StarLadder. “We’re proud to showcase their products on the biggest stage of the CS2 season.”

Fans attending the event will also be able to visit the Blacklyte PlayZone, where they can experience the same chairs and desks used by the pros, participate in giveaways, and take home exclusive merch.

For more information about Blacklyte and their activation at the event, follow us on social media or visit major.starladder.com 

 

The post Blacklyte Joins StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 as its Official Furniture Partner appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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