Bet365 Explores Potential Sale
The Coates family is exploring a possible sale or stock market listing of Bet365, with the company potentially valued at up to £9 billion. Talks with financial advisers are understood to be at an early stage, with several options under consideration.
Various Options on The Table
Bet365 is reportedly reviewing strategic options that include a full or partial sale of the business, as well as a medium-term plan to go public on a U.S. stock exchange. While no formal decisions have been made, discussions have progressed to a point where investment banks are being consulted on how best to maximize value. One scenario involves selling a minority stake to a private equity firm, allowing the Coates family to retain ownership ahead of a future listing. Another possibility is a spin-off of part of the business.
As reported by The Guardian, the Coates family has held informal talks in recent weeks with Wall Street banks and U.S. advisers. The company is believed to have reached the so-called “beauty parade” stage, during which multiple banks are approached to pitch their proposals for managing a potential transaction.
A High-Value Outcome for The Coates Family
Should a sale go ahead, it could result in a windfall of over £5 billion for Denise Coates, who owns 58% of the company. Her leadership has been central to Bet365’s rise from a modest operation in Stoke-on-Trent to a dominant player in global online betting. The company’s focus on digital innovation allowed it to outpace established names such as Ladbrokes and William Hill.