Sportingbet rejects 52.5p-a-share offer from William Hill/GVC
AIM-listed online betting firm Sportingbet has rejected an indicative joint offer from sector peers William Hill and GVC Holdings for 52.5p per share.
AIM-listed online betting firm Sportingbet has rejected an indicative joint offer from sector peers William Hill and GVC Holdings for 52.5p per share.
Sportingbet announced two weeks ago that it was approached by the two companies which were drawing up a possible offer.
The company confirmed weekend press rumours on Monday by saying that the offer - comprising of 45p in cash from William Hill and 7.5p in shares in GVC - was not high enough.
MoneyWeek
Subscribe to MoneyWeek today and get your first six magazine issues absolutely FREE
Sign up to Money Morning
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
"The board of Sportingbet has responded that this indicative offer significantly undervalues the business and its future prospects," the firm said in a statement.
Prior to the initial approach on September 19th, Sportingbet's shares had been trading within 40-44p range. The announcement sparked a jump to the 50-54p mark.
Analysts at Panmure Gordon said in a research note today: "We believe Sportingbet is worth over 60p a share excluding any bid speculation and expect Wednesday's FY results to show the business continues to make strong underlying progress."
The shares were given an extra boost by the news today, trading up 3.40% at 53.25p by 15:06.
Get the latest financial news, insights and expert analysis from our award-winning MoneyWeek team, to help you understand what really matters when it comes to your finances.
MoneyWeek is written by a team of experienced and award-winning journalists, plus expert columnists. As well as daily digital news and features, MoneyWeek also publishes a weekly magazine, covering investing and personal finance. From share tips, pensions, gold to practical investment tips - we provide a round-up to help you make money and keep it.
-
Steve Webb: The triple lock is there to do a job. I’m not embarrassed or ashamed of itThe triple lock means 13 million pensioners will now get an above-inflation state pension boost in April. While the rising cost of the policy has stirred controversy, Steve Webb, who served as pensions minister when it was introduced, argues the triple lock is vital and should stay. Webb speaks to Kalpana Fitzpatrick on the new episode of MoneyWeek Talks – out now.
-
How retirement pots risk running out 11 years early if inflation remains highPension savers could find their retirement income may not last as long as they anticipated over fears that inflation may not slow down
