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DBRS Foresees Significant Growth In The Gambling And Betting Sector

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

June 25, 2024

A recent credit rating agency Morningstar DBRS report predicts substantial growth for the gambling and betting industry in the coming years, driven by the rising penetration of online gaming platforms. Despite differing market dynamics in the US and Europe, the global online gaming market, including sports betting, lotteries, and casino games, is expected to grow at an annual rate of 11% from 2024 to 2028.

US companies face a challenging regulatory environment but are poised for significant growth due to a large customer base and ongoing legalisation efforts. Conversely, European firms benefit from a more established regulatory framework and stable market dynamics, contributing to favourable credit profiles.

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The report highlights that the shift towards online gaming, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has increased user numbers and overall profits. With major events like Euro 2024 and the Paris Olympics on the horizon, betting activity is expected to surge, further boosting revenues for leading gambling companies.

However, DBRS warns that the long-term success of companies in this sector will depend on their ability to navigate market-specific risks and regulatory challenges, as well as their capacity for geographical diversification and brand strength. Despite the promising growth prospects, the US market’s instability presents a significant challenge for investors, while Europe’s mature market offers a more secure environment for business operations.

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Competition Authority Launches Comprehensive Review of ExxonMobil Cyprus Acquisition

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

September 16, 2025

Investigation Initiated Over Strategic Acquisition

The Competition Protection Authority has commenced a thorough investigation into the acquisition of ExxonMobil Cyprus Limited’s share capital by Petrolina Holdings Public Ltd through Med Energywise Ltd. This inquiry was formally initiated following a session held on 10 September 2025, after an in-depth review of the pertinent report by the Authority’s Service.

Concerns Over Market Compatibility

Authorities have expressed serious concerns regarding the compatibility of the transaction with established competitive practices. The review indicates that the acquisition may affect several critical petroleum markets, both horizontally and vertically, thereby raising the potential for adverse impacts on market dynamics.

Horizontal Market Dynamics

On the horizontal front, potential effects have been identified in the import market for petroleum products, as well as in both wholesale and retail distribution channels of these products. The consolidation is believed to increase the risk of price rises and coordinated actions, given the direct competitive proximity between Petrolina and ExxonMobil.

Vertical and Adjacent Market Implications

Vertical aspects of the merger are also under close scrutiny. The new entity could restrict competitors’ access to critical infrastructure such as storage facilities, supply channels, and customer bases. These restrictions could further affect the onshore distribution of fuels, the wholesale market for lubricants, and specialized technical services connected with fuel station operations.

Local Market Considerations

Particular attention is being paid to the potential concentration in the retail fuel market. The investigation suggests that a reduced competitive landscape within a four-kilometer radius of the companies’ fuel stations could lead to diminished local competition, adversely impacting consumer prices and options.

Next Steps and Industry Impact

The Competition Protection Authority, which reached a unanimous decision to pursue a full investigation, remains open to submissions from parties that might be affected by this transaction, as mandated by current legislation. A final decision is expected within four months upon receipt of all necessary evidence, potentially setting a significant precedent for future market consolidation cases in the energy sector.