A leading UK bookie, Betfred, recently declared a challenging financial year, concluding on September 27, 2015, with an operational deficit of £76.7 million. This presents a stark difference compared to the prior year, which witnessed earnings of £31.5 million.
The firm ascribes this downturn to several primary elements. Mainly, a singular expense of £83.7 million impacted their accounts, and the enactment of the UK’s distant gaming levy in December 2014, a 15% tax on betting firms’ profits, also substantially affected their net income.
Moreover, Betfred’s choice to close its Australian ventures in December 2014 further added to the decrease.
Notwithstanding these hurdles, the corporation maintains a positive outlook. Disregarding the one-time expense, their modified EBITDA rests at a robust £56.5 million. Furthermore, aggregate revenue for the 52 weeks preceding September 27, 2015, achieved a notable £10.4 billion. This equates to a weekly revenue of £200.7 million, a considerable jump from the £170 million weekly revenue documented in the preceding year.
Betfred attributes this expansion to a surge in its clientele and a rise in the average sum wagered per client. The firm remains committed to its UK retail system, its digital platforms (betfred.com and totesport.com), and its horse racing activities through Totepool. This dedication, combined with strategic allocations, positions Betfred for future prosperity in the vibrant UK wagering sector.
This year, Betfred experienced a setback. Despite increased revenue, their earnings decreased. They attribute this to elevated gaming levies in Britain and unfavorable betting outcomes.
Their digital platforms, betfred.com and totesport.com, were significantly impacted, resulting in considerably lower profits.
However, on a brighter note, Betfred secured an agreement to broadcast all of Sky’s athletic programming in their 1360 wagering establishments throughout the UK.