Ainsworth Board Endorses Novomatic Takeover Bid
Australian gaming supplier Ainsworth Game Technology has formally recommended shareholders accept Novomatic’s AU$1.00 per share acquisition offer, with the board’s independent committee determining the proposal represents fair value for minority investors.
Independent Assessment Supports Acquisition Terms
Ainsworth’s Independent Board Committee completed its evaluation and concluded that Novomatic’s current takeover proposal meets acceptable valuation standards. The gaming technology supplier submitted its official target statement to the Australian Securities and Investment Commission, with distribution to shareholders expected by September 17. The company anticipates deal completion by November 3, 2025.
Novomatic currently controls 58.8 percent of Ainsworth shares, having steadily increased its ownership position over recent months. The Austrian gaming company’s existing majority position means the current recommendation applies specifically to remaining minority shareholders. Investors who wish to reject the acquisition offer should take no action, while those requiring guidance have been advised to seek independent professional counsel.
Delisting Scenario Depends on Acceptance Levels
The takeover structure includes provisions for Ainsworth’s potential removal from Australian Stock Exchange trading, depending on final ownership percentages. Should Novomatic achieve 75 percent or greater control through accepted tender offers. Reaching 90 percent ownership would trigger mandatory delisting through compulsory acquisition mechanisms.
Ainsworth recently reported first-half calendar year revenue of $100 million, representing 22 percent year-over-year growth despite a 63.5 percent decline in EBITDA performance. Daniel Gladstone, Chair of the Independent Board Committee, emphasized the importance of thorough evaluation. “The Independent Board Committee strongly encourages you to read this Target’s Statement, together with the Independent Expert’s Report and the Bidder’s Statement, carefully and in their entirety before deciding how to deal with your Ainsworth Shares,” he stated. Individual shareholders must consider personal risk tolerance and investment objectives when making decisions about the acquisition proposal.
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