Bet365 eyes partial sale, Coates family aims for private US equity deal?
Bet365, the UK-based online gambling giant, is reportedly considering a potential sale valued at up to $11.3 billion (10.5 billion), as it intensifies its focus on the rapidly expanding US market. The Coates family, founders and majority stakeholders of the company, are exploring strategic options, including a full or partial sale, or a future initial public offering (IPO) in the United States.
Denise Coates, the owner of 58 percent of Bet365, stands to personally benefit in excess of $6.56 billion (5.8 billion) from this potential sale. Under her stewardship, the company has evolved from a modest startup into one of the premier online betting platforms globally, recognised for its innovative digital gambling technologies and superior performance compared to traditional competitors.
China exit triggers next move
Additionally, in an effort to better align with regulated markets, Bet365 has recently decided to leave the Chinese market. Due to the legal ambiguity surrounding online gambling in China, the company has announced that it will stop providing its services to Chinese customers on 27 March 2025.?
Bet365 intends to reallocate its resources to areas that generate steady, long-term income. The United States, Argentina, Germany, Gibraltar, Spain, and the Netherlands are among the markets in which Bet365 operates and holds gambling licenses. The firm has also given John Coates, Denise’s brother, ownership of Stoke City Football Club. These steps were likely part of the plan to improve the company’s appeal to US investors and streamline operations.
The company has been steadily expanding its presence in the United States, obtaining licenses in 13 states, including Illinois, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and Louisiana. Its US operations are backed by a new headquarters in Denver, Colorado, where the company plans to hire up to 1,000 employees.
The US sports betting market is projected to grow significantly, with industry estimates valuing it at around 65 billion. Bet365s technological strength in in-play betting and its careful, strategic approach to the US market make it an attractive proposition for investors and private equity firms.
All speculations till now?
While Bet365 has not publicly confirmed the sale discussions, the company has reportedly reached the beauty parade stage, where investment banks are informally competing to advise on a potential deal. A phased sale, potentially involving a US partner, followed by a listing on the stock market, is thought to be the most likely route.
Analysts suggest that the timing is favourable, given Bet365s strong position and the global demand for regulated online betting platforms. However, industry observers caution that a sale could affect British horse racing and greyhound sports, which Bet365 heavily sponsors.
Denise Coates has received over 2.3 billion in pay and dividends since 2019, making her one of Britains highest-paid individuals. A potential exit, timed just before she turns 60, would mark the end of a two-decade rise from a Portakabin start-up to a global betting empire.
