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Oyster Enterprises II Raises $253M in Upsized SPAC IPO for Tech and Media Deals

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Oyster Enterprises II Acquisition Corp (OYSEU) has successfully completed its upsized IPO, raising $253 million through the sale of 25.3 million units at $10.00 per unit. Each unit comprises one Class A ordinary share and one right to receive 1/10 of a Class A ordinary share upon business combination completion.

The company is a blank check company focused on pursuing acquisition opportunities in technology, media, entertainment, sports, consumer products, financial services, real estate, and hospitality sectors, with particular interest in AI companies and the blockchain ecosystem. The management team is led by Mario Zarazua as CEO and Vice Chairman, and Heath Freeman as Chairman.

Trading began on Nasdaq Global Market on May 22, 2025, under “OYSEU”. The proceeds of $253 million have been placed in a trust account.

Oyster Enterprises II Acquisition Corp (OYSEU) ha completato con successo la sua IPO ampliata, raccogliendo 253 milioni di dollari tramite la vendita di 25,3 milioni di unità a 10,00 dollari per unità. Ogni unità comprende un’azione ordinaria di Classe A e il diritto a ricevere 1/10 di azione ordinaria di Classe A al completamento della combinazione aziendale.

L’azienda è una blank check company focalizzata sulla ricerca di opportunità di acquisizione nei settori della tecnologia, media, intrattenimento, sport, prodotti di consumo, servizi finanziari, immobiliare e ospitalità, con un particolare interesse per le società di intelligenza artificiale e l’ecosistema blockchain. Il team di gestione è guidato da Mario Zarazua come CEO e Vice Presidente, e da Heath Freeman come Presidente.

Le negoziazioni sono iniziate sul Nasdaq Global Market il 22 maggio 2025, con il simbolo “OYSEU”. I proventi di 253 milioni di dollari sono stati depositati in un conto fiduciario.

Oyster Enterprises II Acquisition Corp (OYSEU) ha completado con éxito su oferta pública inicial ampliada, recaudando 253 millones de dólares a través de la venta de 25.3 millones de unidades a 10.00 dólares por unidad. Cada unidad consta de una acción ordinaria Clase A y el derecho a recibir 1/10 de una acción ordinaria Clase A al completarse la combinación empresarial.

La compañía es una blank check company enfocada en buscar oportunidades de adquisición en los sectores de tecnología, medios, entretenimiento, deportes, productos de consumo, servicios financieros, bienes raíces y hospitalidad, con un interés particular en empresas de inteligencia artificial y el ecosistema blockchain. El equipo directivo está liderado por Mario Zarazua como CEO y Vicepresidente, y Heath Freeman como Presidente.

La negociación comenzó en Nasdaq Global Market el 22 de mayo de 2025, bajo el símbolo “OYSEU”. Los ingresos de 253 millones de dólares se han colocado en una cuenta fiduciaria.

Oyster Enterprises II Acquisition Corp (OYSEU)는 증액된 기업공개(IPO)를 성공적으로 완료하여, 단위당 10.00달러에 2,530만 단위를 판매해 2억 5,300만 달러를 조달했습니다. 각 단위는 클래스 A 보통주 1주와 사업 결합 완료 시 클래스 A 보통주 1/10주를 받을 권리 1개로 구성되어 있습니다.

이 회사는 기술, 미디어, 엔터테인먼트, 스포츠, 소비재, 금융 서비스, 부동산 및 환대 산업에서 인수 기회를 모색하는 블랭크 체크 회사로, 특히 인공지능(AI) 기업과 블록체인 생태계에 관심을 가지고 있습니다. 경영진은 Mario Zarazua가 CEO 겸 부회장으로, Heath Freeman가 회장으로 이끌고 있습니다.

2025년 5월 22일 나스닥 글로벌 마켓에서 “OYSEU”라는 티커로 거래가 시작되었으며, 2억 5,300만 달러의 자금은 신탁 계좌에 예치되었습니다.

Oyster Enterprises II Acquisition Corp (OYSEU) a réussi son introduction en bourse élargie, levant 253 millions de dollars grâce à la vente de 25,3 millions d’unités à 10,00 dollars par unité. Chaque unité comprend une action ordinaire de classe A et un droit de recevoir 1/10 d’action ordinaire de classe A lors de la finalisation de la fusion d’entreprise.

La société est une blank check company axée sur la recherche d’opportunités d’acquisition dans les secteurs de la technologie, des médias, du divertissement, du sport, des produits de consommation, des services financiers, de l’immobilier et de l’hôtellerie, avec un intérêt particulier pour les entreprises d’intelligence artificielle et l’écosystème blockchain. L’équipe de direction est dirigée par Mario Zarazua, PDG et vice-président, et Heath Freeman, président.

Les échanges ont débuté sur le Nasdaq Global Market le 22 mai 2025, sous le symbole “OYSEU”. Les fonds de 253 millions de dollars ont été placés sur un compte en fiducie.

Oyster Enterprises II Acquisition Corp (OYSEU) hat seinen erweiterten Börsengang erfolgreich abgeschlossen und dabei 253 Millionen US-Dollar durch den Verkauf von 25,3 Millionen Einheiten zu je 10,00 US-Dollar pro Einheit eingenommen. Jede Einheit besteht aus einer Stammaktie der Klasse A und einem Recht auf den Erhalt von 1/10 einer Stammaktie der Klasse A nach Abschluss der Unternehmenszusammenführung.

Das Unternehmen ist eine Blankoscheckgesellschaft, die sich auf Akquisitionsmöglichkeiten in den Bereichen Technologie, Medien, Unterhaltung, Sport, Konsumgüter, Finanzdienstleistungen, Immobilien und Gastgewerbe konzentriert, mit besonderem Interesse an KI-Unternehmen und dem Blockchain-Ökosystem. Das Managementteam wird von Mario Zarazua als CEO und Vice Chairman sowie Heath Freeman als Chairman geleitet.

Der Handel begann am 22. Mai 2025 am Nasdaq Global Market unter dem Symbol “OYSEU”. Die Erlöse in Höhe von 253 Millionen US-Dollar wurden auf einem Treuhandkonto hinterlegt.

Positive


  • Successfully raised $253 million through upsized IPO

  • Full exercise of over-allotment option by underwriters, indicating strong demand

  • Broad target sector focus including high-growth areas like AI and blockchain

  • 100% of IPO proceeds ($10.00 per unit) placed in trust account

Negative


  • No specific acquisition target identified yet

  • Success depends on finding and completing suitable business combination

  • Competitive SPAC market may affect ability to complete attractive deal

Insights


Oyster Enterprises II successfully raises $253M in upsized SPAC IPO with full over-allotment exercise, targeting tech, media, entertainment and AI acquisitions.

Oyster Enterprises II Acquisition Corp has successfully completed an upsized IPO raising $253 million through the sale of 25.3 million units at $10.00 per unit. The offering included 3.3 million additional units from the full exercise of the underwriters’ over-allotment option, signaling strong initial demand from investors.

Each unit consists of one Class A ordinary share and one right to receive one-tenth of a share upon business combination completion. The entire $253 million has been placed in trust, which represents $10.00 per unit – the standard arrangement for SPACs ensuring investor capital is preserved while the management team searches for acquisition targets.

The SPAC’s leadership includes CEO Mario Zarazua and Chairman Heath Freeman, with a board featuring experienced members including Divya Narendra. Their acquisition strategy targets several high-growth sectors including technology, media, entertainment, sports, consumer products, financial services, real estate, and hospitality, with a particular focus on AI companies that could disrupt these industries and businesses in the digital assets and blockchain ecosystem.

The full exercise of the over-allotment option is particularly noteworthy as it indicates strong initial investor confidence in the management team’s ability to identify and execute a valuable business combination. With BTIG serving as the sole book-runner, this SPAC now joins the market with substantial capital to pursue acquisition opportunities across its targeted industries.














Miami, Florida, May 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Oyster Enterprises II Acquisition Corp (the “Company”) (Nasdaq: OYSEU) announced today the closing of its upsized initial public offering of 25,300,000 units, which includes 3,300,000 units issued pursuant to the full exercise by the underwriters of their over-allotment option. The offering was priced at $10.00 per unit, resulting in gross proceeds of $253,000,000. 

The Company’s units began trading on May 22, 2025 on the Nasdaq Global Market (“Nasdaq”) under the ticker symbol “OYSEU.” Each unit consists of one Class A ordinary share of the Company and one right (the “Share Right”) to receive one tenth (1/10) of one Class A ordinary share of the Company upon the consummation of an initial business combination. Once the securities constituting the units begin separate trading, the Class A ordinary shares and Share Rights are expected to be listed on Nasdaq under the symbols “OYSE” and “OYSER,” respectively.

Of the proceeds received from the consummation of the initial public offering (including the full exercise of the over-allotment option by the underwriters) and a simultaneous private placement of units, $253,000,000 (or $10.00 per unit sold in the offering) was placed in a trust account of the Company.

The Company is a blank check company formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, amalgamation, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses. The Company may pursue an acquisition opportunity in any business, industry, sector or geographical location, but is focused on industries that align with the background of the Company’s management team and advisor, including technology, media, entertainment, sports, consumer products, financial services, real estate and hospitality. The Company will also focus on AI companies positioned to complement or disrupt those industries, as well as companies within the digital assets and blockchain ecosystem.

The Company’s management team is led by Mario Zarazua, its Chief Executive Officer and Vice Chairman, and Heath Freeman, its Chairman. In addition, the Board includes Divya Narendra, Lief Haniford and Jordan Fliegel. Randall D. Smith is an Advisor to the Company, and Mike Rollins is the Chief Financial Officer.

BTIG, LLC acted as sole book-running manager for the offering.

Registration statements relating to the securities were declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on May 21, 2025. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements,” including with respect to the anticipated use of the net proceeds of the initial public offering and the simultaneous private placement, and the search for an initial business combination. No assurance can be given that the net proceeds of the offering will be used as indicated.

Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous conditions, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including those set forth in the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s registration statement and prospectus for the Company’s initial public offering filed with the SEC. Copies of these documents are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release, except as required by law.

Company Contact:

Oyster Enterprises II Acquisition Corp
801 Brickell Avenue, 8th Floor
Miami, Florida, 33131
Attn: Mario Zarazua, CEO and Vice Chairman
mario@oysteracquisition.com
(786) 744-7720
www.oysteracquisition.com










FAQ



How much did Oyster Enterprises II Acquisition Corp (OYSEU) raise in its IPO?


Oyster Enterprises II Acquisition Corp raised $253 million in its IPO through the sale of 25.3 million units at $10.00 per unit.


What industries is OYSEU targeting for acquisition?


OYSEU is targeting technology, media, entertainment, sports, consumer products, financial services, real estate, hospitality, AI companies, and blockchain ecosystem businesses.


Who leads the management team of Oyster Enterprises II SPAC?


The company is led by Mario Zarazua as CEO and Vice Chairman, and Heath Freeman as Chairman.


What does each OYSEU unit consist of?


Each unit consists of one Class A ordinary share and one right to receive one-tenth (1/10) of one Class A ordinary share upon business combination completion.


When did OYSEU begin trading on Nasdaq?


OYSEU began trading on the Nasdaq Global Market on May 22, 2025.








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Brightspeed invests $580,000 in STEM and esports, supporting North Carolina schools and programs — EdTech Innovation Hub

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The new funding announced will support schemes including $350,000 in sponsorship of the Coca Cola All Stars Golden Ticket contest, Formula STEM Esports Cup and the Player League Madden NFL tournament. 

Brightspeed will also act as a primary sponsor for two Bright Future Tech Labs in Triton High School and Orange High School, with funding worth more than $200,000. 

The company will also spend $15,000 on scholarships, equipment, and esports program travel for Wesleyan University and $10,000 on a grant supporting the Rocky Mount High School Gryphon Elite esports team. 

Brightspeed has also announced sponsorship for the Wake Forest Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Department’s four-part esports tournament, called the Battle in the Forest.

“Investing in technology education and esports is a natural extension of our commitment to North Carolina,” explains Sabrina Anderson, Local Marketing Manager at Brightspeed. 

“As we build a world-class fiber network across our home state, we’re equally focused on expanding opportunities for the students who will power our communities tomorrow. These initiatives give young people hands-on access to the tools, skills and experiences that prepare them for the digital future.”

“This scholarship will help ease the financial burden my parents carry in supporting my academic journey,” adds Shafiq Nuijts, a Wesleyan University student and recipient of Brightspeed funded scholarship. “It will also allow me to focus more deeply on my education and my internship this upcoming summer. As an international student, my experience has always involved balancing the challenges of maintaining my F-1 status, keeping a high GPA and reassuring my parents that their investment in me is being put to meaningful use. This scholarship affirms that commitment and motivates me to continue striving for excellence.”



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Gaming Computers Market to Reach USD 95 Billion by 2034, Growing

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Gaming Computers Market

Gaming Computers Market

Pune, India – Exactitude Consultancy – The global Gaming Computers Market is expected to witness strong growth over the forecast period, driven by the rising popularity of esports, increasing demand for high-performance computing, and continuous advancements in graphics and processor technologies. The market, valued at approximately USD 44 billion in 2024, is projected to reach nearly USD 95 billion by 2034, expanding at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 7.9%.

Gaming computers, including desktops and laptops, are designed to deliver superior performance, high-resolution graphics, and fast processing speeds to support immersive gaming experiences. Growing online gaming communities and professional gaming platforms are further accelerating market growth.

Download Full PDF Sample Copy of Market Report

https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/request-sample/69340

Key Growth Drivers

• Rapid Growth of Esports and Online Gaming: Competitive gaming tournaments and streaming platforms are boosting demand for high-performance gaming systems.

• Advancements in Hardware Technology: Continuous improvements in GPUs, CPUs, cooling systems, and memory are enhancing gaming performance.

• Rising Disposable Income: Increasing consumer spending on premium electronics is supporting adoption of gaming computers.

• Expansion of Virtual and Augmented Reality Gaming: Demand for powerful computing systems to support VR and AR applications is increasing.

Market Segmentation Insights

By product type, gaming desktops hold a significant share due to superior customization and performance, while gaming laptops continue to gain popularity for portability.

By price range, mid-range and high-end systems dominate the market, driven by demand from professional and enthusiast gamers.

By end user, individual consumers account for the largest share, followed by gaming cafes and esports organizations.

Explore Full Report here:

https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/reports/69340/gaming-computers-market

Regional Overview

Asia-Pacific represents the largest and fastest-growing regional market, supported by a large gamer population, strong esports culture, and expanding gaming infrastructure in countries such as China, South Korea, Japan, and India.

North America shows strong growth driven by high adoption of advanced gaming hardware and a mature esports ecosystem.

Europe continues to expand steadily due to rising gaming participation and technological innovation.

Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are emerging regions, supported by increasing internet penetration and growing gaming communities.

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Competitive Landscape

The gaming computers market is highly competitive, with major players focusing on performance optimization, innovative designs, and brand partnerships. Companies are investing in advanced cooling technologies, RGB customization, and AI-enabled performance tuning to differentiate their offerings.

Market Outlook

With the gaming industry continuing to evolve rapidly, the Gaming Computers Market is expected to experience sustained growth through 2034. Increasing esports adoption, next-generation gaming technologies, and expanding digital entertainment consumption will remain key drivers of market expansion.

This report is also available in the following languages : Japanese (ゲーミングコンピュータ市場), Korean (게이밍 컴퓨터 시장), Chinese (游戏电脑市场), French (Marché des ordinateurs de jeu), German (Markt für Gaming-Computer), and Italian (Mercato dei computer da gioco), etc.

Request for a sample of this research report at (Use Corporate Mail ID for Quick Response) @

https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/request-sample/69340

Our More Reports:

Redundant EPS System Market

https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/reports/69077/redundant-eps-system-market

InGaAs Image Sensors Market

https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/reports/68951/ingaas-image-sensors-market

Ceramic Electrostatic Chucks Market

https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/reports/68953/ceramic-electrostatic-chucks-market

Electrical Wires Market

https://exactitudeconsultancy.com/reports/68955/electrical-wires-market

About Us

Exactitude Consultancy is a market research & consulting services firm which helps its client to address their most pressing strategic and business challenges. Our market research helps clients to address critical business challenges and also helps make optimized business decisions with our fact-based research insights, market intelligence, and accurate data.

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This release was published on openPR.



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EAG Expo to Bring Together Three Interlinked Sectors of Entertainment and Gaming in a Single Venue

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Sultan Almasoud on the Top Trends in Technology and Esports in Saudi Arabia – Tech & Sourcing @ Morgan Lewis

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Dr. Sultan Almasoud, managing partner of Morgan Lewis’s Riyadh office, has been closely involved in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s rapid evolution into a global hub for innovation. His insights on the questions below shed light on the trends reshaping technology and esports—and the opportunities they unlock for investors and operators entering the market.

Q&A: SULTAN ALMASOUD

1. What are the most significant technology trends currently driving growth in Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia is undergoing one of the most ambitious digital transformation journeys in the world. The most significant trend is the rapid adoption of AI across government, financial services, healthcare, and industrial sectors. Vision 2030 has accelerated investment in AI-ready infrastructure, digital identity, automation, and data platforms that support new digital services at scale.

We also are seeing strong momentum in cloud migration, driven by hyperscaler expansions, data localization policies, and new solutions that make it easier for public and private entities to adopt cloud-native technologies. In parallel, fintech innovation, digital payments, and open banking are creating a dynamic ecosystem of startups, investors, and regulators working together to modernize the financial landscape.

In addition, Saudi Arabia’s giga projects are acting as large-scale accelerators for advanced technologies, while strong regulatory frameworks around data, cloud, and cybersecurity are providing international investors with clarity and confidence. Combined with significant investment in digital talent and localization, this is enabling sustainable, long-term technology-driven growth across the Kingdom.

 

2. How is Saudi Arabia positioning itself as a global hub for esports?

Saudi Arabia has made esports a national priority, fundamentally reshaping the sector. The launch of the Saudi Esports Federation (SEF) and the Esports World Cup, supported by major public investment commitments, has placed the Kingdom at the center of global competitive gaming.

But the strategy extends beyond events. The country is developing training academies, production studios, esports arenas, and digital platforms that sustain year-round player and audience engagement. This ecosystem-driven approach is drawing global publishers, teams, and content creators who now view Saudi Arabia as a foundational market for long-term esports growth.

 

3. What opportunities do you see emerging for investors and companies entering the Saudi tech and esports market?

There is tremendous opportunity at the intersection of technology, entertainment, and digital infrastructure. For technology companies, opportunities are especially strong in AI solutions, cybersecurity, cloud services, digital identity, and smart city platforms.

In esports, the most compelling opportunities lie in content creation, talent development, gaming studios, tournament production, and technologies supporting broadcasting, analytics, and community engagement. Investors who understand the regulatory environment and align with the Kingdom’s long-term vision will find a market eager for strategic partnerships.

 

4. What challenges should companies keep in mind when operating in these fast-evolving sectors?

These sectors are evolving quickly, which makes regulatory navigation an important challenge. Companies need to stay aligned with requirements around licensing, content regulation, data protection, and foreign investment—areas that are developing alongside the industry itself.

Another key challenge is specialized talent. Whether it”s game design, AI engineering, or esports event management, building local capability is essential. Companies that invest early in training programs, knowledge transfer, and local partnerships will be best positioned for sustainable growth.

Ultimately, success requires a long-term commitment to the market, strong local relationships, and an understanding of national priorities as the Kingdom advances its digital transformation goals.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Saudi Arabia is positioning itself at the forefront of global innovation, with technology and esports playing central roles in the nation’s economic transformation. As investment accelerates and new digital ecosystems emerge, companies that build strategic partnerships and engage deeply with local priorities will be poised to lead. Morgan Lewis is committed to helping clients navigate this dynamic landscape and capture the opportunities shaping the Kingdom’s digital future.



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What to expect from Gaming Malta at ICE Barcelona

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From regulatory certainty and talent depth to immersive innovation, Malta will showcase its full iGaming ecosystem at ICE Barcelona 2026. The Malta experiential showcase booth promises a unified national presence highlighting why the island remains the home of gaming excellence.

Given the sweeping reforms proposed and passed in iGaming jurisdictions worldwide in recent times, it is hardly surprising that ‘regulation’ has remained the most pressing issue for operators over the past two years.

In a turbulent landscape though, Malta has nurtured a long-established reputation for regulatory stability that has enabled the picturesque Mediterranean republic, with a population of just over half a million people, to punch well above its weight.

At ICE Barcelona 2026 in January, the island’s qualities as an iGaming jurisdiction will be showcased to the sector like never before at the Malta booth.

Designed to promote the destination as the world’s online igaming jurisdiction and the home of gaming excellence, the Malta space will be a hub of activity throughout gaming’s biggest show, with a virtual reality roulette experience created by Malta-based Draw & Code offering a compelling centrepiece.

“We have built the world’s iGaming Silicon Valley in Malta, and the expo space will be testament to our relentless approach in this regard,” says GamingMalta CEO Ivan Filletti. GamingMalta is an independent non-profit foundation jointly established by the Government of Malta and the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA).

A coordinated national presence

The Malta booth will serve as a live ecosystem, bringing together leading industry voices, including founders, operators, service-providers and regulators, with visitors able to discover first-hand how businesses scale from Malta.

Notably, a coordinated national presence will be on show at gaming’s most influential annual gathering. For the first time, GamingMalta and the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)  will be joined by government’s economic development agency Malta Enterprise, Malta’s largest bank, Bank of Valletta (BOV) and Identita responsible for citizens’ identity management and the implementation of migration processes will come together to present a united front.

This collaborative representation is not only designed to amplify Malta’s credibility – by enabling questions to be answered on a range of topics in the same place, from licensing and banking to staffing. It also signals unity in action.

“Going as a unified front communicates government and ecosystem alignment; that Malta isn’t a loose cluster but a coherent jurisdiction that supports long-term business,” GamingMalta explains. “This is especially persuasive to institutional investors and regulated operators.”

Such alignment is illustrated by Malta’s relatively predictable regulatory outlook. With GamingMalta’s ongoing R.E.S.P.E.C.T. campaign spear heading reputation management for the industry through the pillars of responsible gambling, entertainment, speed, professionalism, enhanced due diligence, consistency and talent, the focus is now on cementing Malta’s status as the home of gaming excellence.

Embracing the sector

According to GamingMalta, though, the attraction of Malta is “a sum of all the parts rather than one silver bullet”.

Regulatory certainty, international recognition and reducing market entry friction are important factors, while the ecosystem density on the island ensures experienced suppliers are plentiful.

Additionally, as a springboard to the European Economic Area, with English in use as the language of business, and with substantial talent and immigration pathways, there are a multitude of reasons for gambling businesses to land in Malta.

Above all, GamingMalta believes the island has established a jurisdiction that has fully embraced the sector, from cross-political support to initiatives like the iGaming Council – a GamingMalta-led initiative that brings together operators and policy-makers.

A cornerstone of the Maltese economy

Underpinning Malta’s presence at ICE will be the government’s recently published Envision 2050 long-term strategy, which sets out clear and measurable targets for the nation’s development.

At the heart of this, Malta is targeting a more sustainable average annual GDP growth rate of 5% by 2035 driven by strategic investment in seven priority sectors – one of which is gaming.

Moreover, gaming has already proven itself to be a cornerstone of the Maltese economy. According to Envision 2050 projections, the sector’s contribution is expected to rise from €1.5bn (£1.31bn/$1.76bn) to between €2.3-€2.8bn, making up 6-7% of the nation’s projected GVA by 2035.

With a focus on strengthening leadership in the gaming industry, ensuring transparency, player protection and fair competition, Envision 2050 will ensure the sector continues to be a major contributor towards the national economy.

According to GamingMalta, this blueprint signals a clear north star, showing how Malta is “a safe and resilient nation, inspired by heritage and driven by progress, fostering a healthy quality of life for all”.

‘Make It In Malta’ campaign

The creative thread which will support this drive at ICE is the ‘Make It In Malta’ campaign, highlighting success stories and case studies from a mature and practical ecosystem for growth.

“This approach reinforces the ‘home of gaming excellence’ brand by showing evidence – such as deals, hires, regulatory clarity and investment – rather than simply asserting it,” adds GamingMalta, which underscored the strength of “operator-led storytelling”.

GamingMalta adds, “Nobody promotes a jurisdiction better than the companies who have grown there. They supply credibility, concrete metrics and relatable roadmaps for peers. Success breeds success and Malta is the perfect stage for your global ambitions.”

A talented workforce

There is solid evidence to back up such claims. At a recent iGaming Council meeting, new investments totalling €60m by different operators were confirmed.

Furthermore, Malta’s 14,000-strong gaming industry workforce, as well as its safe and stable work environment, is widely recognised as a key growth driver. According to an MGA survey last year, 85% of gaming operators based in Malta were satisfied or highly satisfied with the availability of skilled personnel and the quality and cost-effectiveness of local training opportunities versus other leading jurisdictions.

Similarly, around 80% of respondents were satisfied or highly satisfied with the ease of labour mobility, with favourable perceptions regarding workforce ethics even higher at 87%. Malta also offers an appealing quality of life attracting top tier talent to the island many working in the igaming industry.

From a gaming workforce perspective, GamingMalta stresses that Malta’s pool of talent will be the key differentiator in the next phase of growth.

“Talent scales businesses,” says GamingMalta, who added that institutions like the Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST) offer courses targeted at individuals who aim to progress in the gaming industry. 

“Without a pipeline of developers, ops staff and compliance specialists, operators stall. That’s why migration policy and skills programmes – including Identità and Malta Enterprise initiatives – are critical. Business-friendliness remains the accelerant, but stable regulation and accessible talent are the engine.”

“Nobody promotes a jurisdiction better than the companies who have grown there… Success breeds success and Malta is the perfect stage for your global ambitions”

A technological convergence

Malta is also benefiting from a timely convergence of technology through the simultaneous growth of esports, game development and immersive innovations.

“The respective ecosystems can feed into and collaborate with each other, albeit as different animals,” GamingMalta says. “Ultimately, it all boils down to entertainment and how consumers are attracted or relate to entertainment platforms.

“We will be consolidating the gambling sector by focusing on a strong regulatory framework ensuring transparency and fair competition and simultaneously accelerate interactive entertainment sectors through fiscal initiatives, technological innovation and talent development.

“Malta’s long-term strategy is to build a resilient, innovation-driven, high-value economy. The gaming, esports and interactive media sectors align perfectly with this national direction because they represent the type of future-proofed, knowledge-intensive industries Malta aims to anchor over the next 25 years.”

GamingMalta’s own ‘Manifesto’ builds on this drive with a blueprint designed to build on 20 years of success to secure the future of Malta as an in-demand destination for operators.

Among the key pillars of the Manifesto’s 10-point plan are a focus on keeping corporate tax competitive, maintaining political support, improving sector skills and developing off-island relations, as well as driving up responsible gaming standards and encouraging innovation.

Attracting and retaining operators

With a strong regulatory framework, competitive gaming tax structure and strategic position as a gateway to European gambling, casino and lottery markets, over 350 operators are already based on the island.

However, Malta’s gaming industry stakeholders are laser-focused on providing a framework that encourages further growth – and, like the operators it hosts, the desire is to attract, as well as retain.

Some of the industry’s biggest names have relocated to the republic. Meanwhile, at the end of 2023, across Malta’s largest 100 operators by turnover, the average period of operation on the island was 13 years -illustrating that once major players arrive, they tend to stay.

As GamingMalta CEO ​​Filletti says following ICE earlier this year: “Malta may be small in size, but our impact on the iGaming industry continues to be immense.”

Now, as a small nation with a big reputation, Maltese stakeholders are aligning to harness opportunities at major events like ICE, so the island can build on its status as the gold-standard of iGaming industry destinations.

Book your meeting today with GamingMalta, MGA or any of the co-participants at ICE on: https://www.gamingmalta.org/make-it-in-malta/ and visit the Make it in Malta booth Hall 4 Booth 4C40.

Ivan Filletti, GamingMalta CEO



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