FDJ Q1 2024: Analysis of growth and acquisitions

Lea Hogg April 18, 2024

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FDJ Q1 2024: Analysis of growth and acquisitions

La Fran?aise des Jeux (FDJ), France’s leading gaming operator, has reported a solid start to the year 2024. The company’s total group revenue for Q1 2024 was €710 million ($755.6 million), marking a 7 percent increase from the €662 million reported in the same period last year. However, on a like-for-like basis, this reflects a marginal growth of 1.1 percent.

The gaming revenue in France rose by 3 percent to €645 million.?A significant portion of FDJ’s total quarterly earnings came from online games, which accounted for €100 million, representing 15 percent of its total gaming revenue.

The most notable growth metric was reported from other activities, which include payment and services and international operations. This segment grew 77.4 percent from Q1 2023’s €37 million to this year’s €65 million. However, on a like-for-like basis, €65 million reflects a decline of 3.7 percent.

Sports betting and competitive online gaming saw a 9.5 million year-on-year increase at €141 million. However, when excluding Zeturf, which was acquired in October and later integrated, the growth was 0.9 million.

Lottery remained the largest contributor to overall group revenue at €504 million, up 1.4 percent from last year’s €497 million. Part of this growth was attributed to the €5 ticket (Ticket d’Or) which was launched in January. However, it was also noted that, were Amigo to be excluded from the results, lottery revenue would be up 4 percent.

FDJ’s acquisition of Kindred shares

FDJ’s tender offer for Kindred went live on 20 February. The operator announced its intention to acquire the company in a €2.6 billion buyout in late January. It published its intention to acquire the company later in February, with Kindred’s shareholders approving amendments to facilitate the acquisition in March.

During Q1, FDJ acquired 2.4 million Kindred shares for SEK 294 million ($26.7 million). The operator now holds 1.1 million of Kindred’s outstanding shares. Irrevocable commitments, including New York-based investment firm Eminence Capital, now represent 26.8 million of outstanding Kindred shares.

FDJ’s Chairwoman and CEO, Stéphane Pallez, (pictured above), has expressed confidence in the company’s growth and the ongoing acquisition of Kindred. This strategic move is expected to further strengthen FDJ’s position in the gaming industry.

In conclusion, FDJ’s Q1 2024 financial results reflect a promising start to the year, with significant revenue growth and strategic acquisitions. The company’s focus on expanding its online gaming business and other activities demonstrates its commitment to diversification and growth in the gaming industry. The acquisition of Kindred shares is a clear indication of FDJ’s strategic direction and ambition to become a leading player in the international gaming market.