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Scientific Games subsidiary SciPlay files for IPO

Readies itself for potential acquisition spee; has entered into $150 million revolving credit facility

Scientific Games subsidiary SciPlay files for IPO

The social gaming business of casino equipment maker Scientific Gameshas filed for an initial public offering on the US Nasdaq.

The SciPlay subsidiary operates a number of mobile social casino and casual games, including Monopoly Slots, Jackpot Party Casino, Gold Fish Casino and Bingo Showdown. All seven of its games were said to have achieved their highest monthly revenue ever in 2018.

The proposed IPO will be for a minority interest in the business. The number of shares to be offered and the price range have not yet been determined.

Growing mobile business

In its filing, the company claims to have 2.6 million daily active users and 8.3 million monthly active users across its portfolio. The average revenue per DAU is $0.43, while payer conversion rate is said to be at 5.5 per cent.

Revenues have climbed from $275 million in 2016 to $361m in 2017 and $416m in 2018. 78% ($323m) of that is generated from mobile platforms.

The company states its aim is to be the number one casual mobile games company in the world. It described its casual games as a “blend of slots-style or bingo gameplay with adventure game features”.

As part of Scientific Games, the games division also has the rights to use other licensed brands such as James Bond, Michael Jackson, Cheers and The Godfather. Across SciPlay's five studios the company currently employs 400 staff.

Looking forward, SciPlay aims to develop new social casino games, expand further into global markets and also tap into genres such as puzzle, card, poker and board games.

The firm also plans to conduct acquisitions and in connection to its offering it's set to enter into a $150 million revolving credit facility.

Social casino will be a topic of conversation at Pocket Gamer Connects Seattle 2019 on May 13th to 14th.


Head of Content

Craig Chapple is a freelance analyst, consultant and writer with specialist knowledge of the games industry. He has previously served as Senior Editor at PocketGamer.biz, as well as holding roles at Sensor Tower, Nintendo and Develop.