Playtech Shares (PTEC) Move Higher on Trading Update

Playtech shares (LON:PTEC) jumped in early trading today, adding 2.24% following a trading update for H1 that put EBITDA estimates on the period at €90 million.

After what has been a tough year for holders, with Playtech's share price losing 42.85% since the start of 2025, today's trading update provides some welcome relief for bulls.

The improved outlook stems from strong performance in Playtech's core B2B business and a better-than-anticipated contribution from its associates, particularly Caliente Interactive. Caliente benefited from favourable sporting results during the second quarter of 2025 and has now declared and paid its first dividend under the revised strategic agreement. 

The company's trading update, released ahead of its half-year results scheduled for September 11, 2025, highlights the successful execution of its strategy to focus on its B2B operations.

This pivot was further cemented by the €2.3 billion sale of its Italian-facing business, Snaitech S.p.A., to Flutter Entertainment earlier in the year, a move that freed up capital for strategic investments and a substantial special dividend of €5.73 per share distributed in June.

While the expected headline figure for H1 2025 is a positive, Playtech remains cautious about certain headwinds, reiterating concerns on regulatory changes in Brazil and Colombia, previously flagged in May. Brazil's transition to a regulated market and Colombia's implementation of a temporary VAT charge present immediate challenges that could impact revenue in the short term.

Despite these regional challenges, Playtech is actively pursuing growth opportunities, particularly in the US. The company anticipates increased investment during the second half of 2025, having reported very strong revenue growth particularly across its Live, Casino, and Platform services.

Markets will be closely watching Playtech's half-year results in September for further details on both performance and outlook.