Skycity considers takeover bids while preparing for new digital gambling market

Skycity Entertainment Group is inviting structured takeover proposals while pursuing two new online casino licenses.

Written by the BettingEdgeHub desk, 23 October 2026

Skycity Entertainment Group is opening its doors to potential buyers through a structured acquisition process. Chairman Julian Cook explained at the annual general meeting that the board wants to test the market value properly after rejecting earlier takeover bids this year. The company has hired advisers to assist interested parties with due diligence and formal proposals.

Exploring company sale

Cook told shareholders that no improved offers have arrived since the previous bids were turned down. The board remains confident in its standalone strategy but will evaluate any offer that brings better value to investors. Executives warned that this formal evaluation will take time and might not result in an actual company sale.

Targeting digital permits

Chief executive Jason Walbridge updated investors on plans to enter the regulated online casino sector in New Zealand. The operator is applying for two digital licenses instead of the maximum three allowed. Management believes this scaled approach fits their capital allocation targets and risk models.

Facing new competition

The business plans to use its thirty years of land based casino experience to compete in the digital space. Executives highlighted their existing compliance frameworks regarding anti money laundering and host responsibility. The new online market is expected to launch in the second half of the financial year.

Monitoring market launch

Competition will likely be intense once the regulated online betting environment officially opens. Skycity intends to monitor advertising rules closely as the launch date approaches. The firm aims to cross promote its digital services alongside its physical casino operations.

What it means for a bet

Punters watching the regulated online market launch should expect strong brand promotion from established operators.

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