Flutter Entertainment, the leading global online sports betting and iGaming operator, is making a big move into Brazil. The company announced it will acquire a 56% stake in NSX Group, a key player in the Brazilian market known for the Betnacional brand, for approximately $350 million. This deal is set to secure Flutter’s spot among the top operators in Brazil’s fast-growing and soon-to-be-regulated betting market.
Flutter’s acquisition aligns with its strategy to strengthen its market position internationally, particularly in high-growth regions like Brazil. NSX Group, which owns Betnacional, is currently the fourth-largest operator in Brazil. With this deal, Flutter aims to enhance its competitive edge as Brazil moves towards full regulation of its sports betting and iGaming market in early 2025.
Peter Jackson, Flutter’s CEO, highlighted the significance of this move: “I am excited to announce the addition of NSX, operator of Betnacional a leading Brazilian sports betting and iGaming brand, to the Flutter portfolio.”
Key Details of the Acquisition
The deal involves Flutter paying around $350 million in cash and contributing its Betfair Brazil business for a 56% stake in the newly combined entity, Flutter Brazil. Flutter also has options to increase its ownership through put and call arrangements in the fifth and tenth years after the deal closes.
The acquisition will help Flutter to bolster its local presence in Brazil, adding NSX’s growing brands to its portfolio. Betnacional has quickly captured 12% of the sports betting market and 9% of the total online market since launching in 2021.
Brazil’s population of over 200 million, combined with a strong culture of sports, makes it a highly attractive market for online betting. Sports betting has seen rapid growth, with annual gross gaming revenue increasing by 38% since 2018, reaching nearly $3 billion in 2023. Once regulation kicks in, established operators like Flutter are expected to benefit from their local focus and compliance capabilities.
This acquisition is more than just expanding market share; it also brings local management expertise and a proprietary tech platform developed in Brazil. These assets will allow the combined Flutter Brazil business to respond quickly to market needs.
Synergies and Future Growth
Flutter plans to leverage its global expertise and resources to drive growth in the newly combined Flutter Brazil. By sharing its proprietary pricing, risk management capabilities, and iGaming content, Flutter aims to enhance the product offering for Brazilian customers. This move is expected to create synergies that will boost the revenue potential of NSX and Betnacional.
Despite anticipated start-up losses of $90-100 million in 2025, Flutter sees a strong future for its Brazilian venture, similar to its strategy in other regulated markets like the U.S. This acquisition is part of Flutter’s broader approach to investing in market leadership positions that can deliver long-term profitability.
Looking Ahead
Flutter’s investment in NSX demonstrates a commitment to expanding its footprint in Brazil and other promising markets. The deal is expected to close by Q2 2025, pending regulatory approvals. Flutter will provide more details on this acquisition and its growth plans at its Investor Day on September 25.
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