Entain has reported that its group net gaming revenue (NGR) landed ahead of expectations in the six months to 30 June, rising by 5% year-on-year.

The betting firm, which owns brands including Ladbrokes, Coral and the joint venture BetMGM, said its online revenue in this period increased by 7%, reflecting continued strong volume growth, and stronger than expected performances in the UK, Ireland and Australia.

However, across this period, its earnings dropped by 2% to £479m, as its NGR outperformance more than offset the impact of increased UK online gambling tax. This figure did land ahead of expectations.

The firm also recorded a loss of £11.4m, which is a £74m year-on-year improvement, which was attributed to a net benefit on financial instruments.

In its outlook, Entain reiterated its current guidance, with online NGR set to grow by between 5% and 7%.

It also said it remains comfortable with market earnings expectations, which is set to land in the midpoint of its £910m and £960m guidance range.

CEO at Entain, Stella David, stated: "I am pleased with Entain's start to 2026 with strong momentum and volume growth continuing as well as strong player engagement across the Group throughout the World Cup tournament. This performance reflects our strengthening operations and focused execution which reinforces the resilience of our globally scaled business and its ability to consistently deliver high-quality growth.

"We have continued to take decisive strategic actions to deliver shareholder value, including our phased exit of Entain CEE. Entain is becoming a sharper, fitter, and better connected business. I am confident our disciplined focus on growth and optimisation will deliver strong future cash-generation, and that Entain remains well positioned to be a long-term industry winner."

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