Entain has seen its group net gaming revenue (NGR) increase by 7% in the first half of its financial year, as it beat expectations.

The FTSE 100 gambling firm, which co-owns BetMGM with US company, MGM Resorts, saw its online net gaming revenue beat expectations in the six months to 30 June, increasing by 5% year-on-year with strong volumes in sports and gaming.

Entain’s UK and Ireland NGR increased by 9%, with outperformance driven by stronger than expected market share and growth in player values.

Although its international NGR fell by 2%, following softness in Australia, the Netherlands and Belgium, the firm continued to record double digit online NGR growth in Georgia, Spain, Canada and Greece.

Furthermore, its group EBITDA increased by 11% to £583m, although it recorded a loss after tax of £117m, after charging separately disclosed items, finance charges, exchange differences and tax.

Chief executive officer at Entain, Stella David, said: "I am delighted by the ongoing momentum and strong performance that both Entain and BetMGM have delivered in H1 2025. Entain's transformation journey is well underway, gathering pace and is supported by our high-quality portfolio of iconic brands with podium positions in attractive markets.

"Our business is getting stronger, fitter and faster, with these results reinforcing our confidence in driving sustainable underlying growth and generating more than £500m of cash annually in the medium term."

Looking ahead, the firm, which owns brands including Coral, Ladbrokes and Sportingbet, has increased its NGR guidance from mid-single digit percentage growth to 7%.

It also expects its group EBITDA to be in the range of £1.1bn and £1.15bn.

Head of markets at interactive investor, Richard Hunter, concluded: "High investor expectations leading into these results were clearly justified, as Entain has revealed half-year numbers littered with examples of strong trading momentum.

"The group’s gamble to conquer overseas markets in addition to its core UK offering is showing signs of paying off. Entain previously revealed that its joint venture with BetMGM in the US has now become earnings positive, and elsewhere Brazil is now the fastest growing market outside of the States. While it has undoubtedly been a tough slog for the group to get to this stage, where promotional investment has been something of a necessary headwind, the benefits are beginning to appear.

"For the moment, Entain’s star is shining bright and it has any number of 'podium positions' across its sprawling geographies and brand portfolio, which includes the likes of BetMGM, Ladbrokes, Coral, Gala and Foxy Bingo. The group has decided to stay put in the FTSE100, for the time being at least, as opposed to rival Flutter’s decision to transfer to the US."

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