Playtech to Move Forward with Caliplay After Antitrust Green Light

Playtech has obtained antitrust approval for its updated strategic agreement with online gambling operator Grupo Caliente. Caliplay

In Mexico, Playtech is set to implement its revised agreement with Caliplay, the online gambling subsidiary of Grupo Caliente, on March 31, following the receipt of antitrust clearance. This approval will effectively put an end to a prolonged dispute regarding unpaid fees.

The disagreement arose from different interpretations concerning Caliplay’s ability to impose additional service fees under their strategic agreement related to the Caliente.MX joint venture. Caliplay had initiated legal action aiming to terminate its partnership with Playtech. However, in September, both parties reached an agreement on the new terms.

As part of the revised deal, Caliplay will resume payments for the disputed software and service fees owed to Playtech. Additionally, Playtech will acquire a 30.8% stake in Caliplay’s US-based holding company, Caliente Interactive. The two companies will also enter into a new eight-year B2B software licensing and services agreement.

This announcement coincided with Playtech’s confirmation that Flutter had acquired its Italian-facing B2C business, Snaitech, for €2.30 billion. Flutter now owns 100% of Snaitech, further establishing its foothold in Italy, where it has owned the lottery operator Sisal since 2021. For Playtech, this strategic move reinforces its commitment to focus on B2B operations.