In order to maximise the efficiency of shareholder returns the Playtech plc Board believes returns should be balanced between dividends and share buybacks. It is the Board's intention that the overall level of capital returned to shareholders will continue to be progressive, in line with medium term earnings and cash flows. The Board has approved a share repurchase programme of €40 million and a final dividend declared of 12.0 €c per share. For shareholders wishing to receive their dividends in Sterling, the last date for currency elections is 8 May 2020.
Other financial highlights include:
Core B2B Gambling revenue growth of 15% vs. 2018 driven by Sports and Live Casino
Snaitech had an outstanding 2019 with 24% growth in Underlying Adjusted EBITDA on an annualised basis (EBITDA after excluding gambling tax headwinds and 2018 World Cup impact)
Asia remained broadly stable through H2 2019
TradeTech restructuring underway and business under review
Business rationalisation in progress with Casual Gaming now a discontinued operation
€350 million bond raised, convertible bond repaid on maturity; revolving credit facility increased and extended including new Tier 1 lender joining syndicate
Shareholder returns up 4% vs. 2018 with new €40 million share repurchase programme announced today
Board strengthened with two new non-executive directors appointed in 2019; Chairman succession nearing completion
