Latest News
Golden Matrix Provides Corporate Update on Pending (MeridianBet) Acquisition
Golden Matrix Group, Inc., a developer, licensor and global operator of online gaming and eCommerce platforms, systems and gaming content, today provided a corporate update on its pending acquisition of MeridianBet Group, one of Southeast Europe’s leading business-to-consumer (B2C) sports betting and gaming groups, with headquarters in Malta, operating in multiple markets across Europe, Africa and Latin America.
As previously reported, on September 27, 2023, the Company and the owners of MeridianBet entered into a First Amendment to Amended and Restated Purchase Agreement, pursuant to which GMGI had agreed to acquire the MeridianBet Group and its related companies. Among the various amendments to the prior agreement as set forth in the 1st amendment (as described in greater detail in the Current Report on Form 8-K filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 28, 2023), the prior agreement was amended: 1) to extend the required closing date thereof; and 2) to modify financial closing terms of the previously announced definitive agreement.
The modification to the financial closing terms allows for the use of up to $20 million of cash-on-hand of MeridianBet Group to pay a portion of the $30 million cash payable by Golden Matrix at the closing of the transaction, to the extent approved in the sole discretion of the sellers.
Subsequently, on September 29, 2023, Golden Matrix filed a Current Report on Form 8-K, disclosing excerpts from certain presentations used by GMGI in connection with the funding sought by Golden Matrix to close the transaction.
“These recent filings reinforce the importance of this strategic acquisition, and demonstrate both companies’ willingness and ability to close the transaction,” said GMGI CEO, Anthony Brian Goodman, who continued, “The amendment allowing GMGI and the sellers to use up to $20 million of the MeridianBet Group’s cash-on-hand at closing (subject to the sole discretion of the sellers), not only provides the Company with potential greater flexibility on financing, but we believe also demonstrates the sellers’ confidence in the value of creating a combined entity capable of being greater than the sum of its parts.”
Mr. Goodman noted that the MeridianBet Group has increased its year-to-date revenues considerably against last year’s revenues; and the proforma performance of the combined company, following the acquisition, is now projected to be approximately $132 million in revenues and $27 million in Adjusted EBITDA, for the October 31, 2023 fiscal year.
“Both MeridianBet Group CEO, Zoran Milosevic, and I are confident that the completion of this acquisition will drive long-term value for all our stakeholders as we seek to benefit from economies of scale and both companies’ historical revenue and profit growth. We are also working closely with our bankers in an effort to raise the most beneficial financing available for the transaction,” concluded Mr. Goodman.
Golden Matrix expects to file the required proxy statement requesting shareholder approval for the issuance of the shares of common stock issuable in connection with the transaction, and other matters, with the SEC for shareholder approval very soon.
The acquisition is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2023 or first quarter of 2024, subject to customary conditions to closing including, but not limited to GMGI shareholder approval, and Nasdaq approval, to the extent required, and other items.
For additional information regarding the purchase agreement, as amended, and the terms of the 1st amendment, including a breakdown of all of the consideration payable thereunder, please refer to Golden Matrix’s Current Report on Form 8-K, which was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 28, 2023 and is available at www.sec.gov
Gaming
10-15% Of Gamers In Florida Show Signs Of Gaming Addiction: Here Are 10 Signs Your Kid Is Suffering From It (And How You Can Help)
Recent studies indicate that 10-15% of young gamers in Florida exhibit signs of gaming addiction. These findings underscore the need for early identification of symptoms to prevent negative impacts on children’s mental and physical health. Gaming addiction, if not dealt with, can lead to poor academic performance, social withdrawal, and even health problems.
Marin Cristian-Ovidiu, CEO of FreezeNova, discusses key indicators of gaming addiction and offers practical advice for parents.
Recognizing Early Signs
“Early recognition of gaming addiction is crucial in preventing long-term negative outcomes,” Marin explains. The following signs can help parents identify if their child might be developing an addiction:
Exhaustion and Irritability
Constant tiredness and grumpiness during the day could indicate late-night gaming sessions interfering with sleep.
Gaming Obsession
If gaming dominates your child’s thoughts and conversations, and they plan their day around it while neglecting other responsibilities, it could be a sign of addiction.
Decline in Academic Performance and Lost Interests
A noticeable decline in academic performance or loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities may suggest your child is prioritizing gaming over more important tasks.
Emotional Volatility
Extreme emotional reactions to in-game outcomes, such as uncontrolled anger, known as ‘Gamer Rage’, or intense celebrations, could indicate an unhealthy attachment to gaming.
Physical Strain
Signs of repetitive strain injuries like ‘Gamer’s Thumb’ or ‘Nintendo Neck’ from prolonged screen time are warning signals.
Neglecting Basic Needs
If your child is neglecting basic needs like eating, sleeping, or hygiene to keep playing, gaming has likely taken an unhealthy control over their life.
Creating a Supportive Environment
While video games can be a great source of entertainment and connection, around 70% of people with signs of gaming addiction also experience social disorders. Marin recommends a few tips for building a supportive and open environment for your child.
Teamwork and Setting Boundaries
“Parents and children should work together to create a healthy gaming environment. Gaming addiction requires a holistic approach,” Marin advises. Start by setting clear boundaries on gaming time to ensure there’s room for schoolwork, chores, and quality family time.
Revisit activities your child once loved, like football practice or exploring new hobbies together. It’s vital for your child to take breaks from screens, so create a balanced daily routine that includes homework, chores, exercise and just some gaming time. This allows your child to enjoy their games without neglecting other aspects of their life.
Open Communication
Maintain open communication. Discuss the games your child enjoys and any concerns you might have. By understanding their world, you can work together to find solutions.
Remember, you’re not alone. If you feel overwhelmed, seek professional help from specialists in gaming addiction. Marin concludes, “By working as a team, setting clear boundaries, and fostering open communication, we can help your child develop a healthy relationship with gaming and thrive in all areas of life.”
Bally’s Interactive, the digital and sports betting division of Bally’s Corporation, has launched the all-new Bally Bet Sportsbook & Casino app in Ontario, Canada. This latest release marks another significant milestone for the company, following the recent app update in New Jersey and a series of successful app launches in the past year, including the introduction of Bally Bet Sportsbook across multiple states and Bally Casino in Rhode Island.
The updated Bally Bet Sportsbook & Casino app represents a major step forward, as it combines the functionalities of the existing Bally Casino app and Bally Bet Sportsbook app into one comprehensive platform. Powered by White Hat Gaming, this new app allows players residing in or traveling to Ontario to conveniently place wagers on both sports and casino games using a single app, account, and universal wallet.
“We are thrilled to introduce the new Bally Bet Sportsbook & Casino app, marking a significant milestone for Bally’s. This integrated platform merges the features of our previous apps, providing players in Ontario with a seamless experience for both sports and casino betting. Our commitment to enhancing the player experience remains at the forefront as we strive to personalize the enjoyment of playing Bally Bet,” said Robeson Reeves, CEO of Bally’s Corporation.
PENN Entertainment Inc. has launched its stand-alone Hollywood Casino app in Pennsylvania. Built on PENN’s proprietary technology platform, Hollywood Casino offers more than 700 iCasino games, a variety of daily promotions, and exciting jackpots.
Available on Android, iOS and desktop, customers in the Keystone State can access Hollywood Casino through either the ESPN BET app or through the new Hollywood Casino app using their same ESPN BET login credentials, allowing for a seamless experience across PENN’s online betting and casino platforms. PENN plans to launch Hollywood Casino in additional jurisdictions in 2025, subject to regulatory approvals.
Hollywood Casino features a variety of online slots, table games and live dealer content, including bespoke live dealer tables and a dedicated “Casino Floor” lobby that allows users to easily find virtual versions of their favorite slot games from PENN’s retail properties. Hollywood Casino also features original titles from PENN Game Studios, PENN’s in-house casino game development studio that has produced a number of popular online games, including Legendary LarryTM and Wuji MinesTM.
“We’re excited to launch Hollywood Casino as a stand-alone app in Pennsylvania, giving our customers access to their favorite games in a dedicated, casino-first experience. With four Hollywood Casino properties in the state, the app leverages our trusted retail brand and creates a seamless connection between our online and retail gaming experiences. We look forward to bringing this enhanced Hollywood Casino experience to more iCasino markets in early 2025, pending regulatory approvals,” said Aaron LaBerge, Chief Technology Officer at PENN Entertainment.
Hollywood Casino is also fully integrated with PENN Play, the Company’s omnichannel loyalty program that allows members to earn and redeem rewards, including PENN Cash, exclusive tier benefits and personalized services.
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