Q2 brought another wave of high-profile esports industry deals. Endemic partnerships remained the most common, but the quarter also delivered its share of surprises, from the expected power players to long-awaited policy shifts that could reshape future sponsorship dynamics.

Two of the most active players this past quarter were the Esports World Cup Foundation and BLAST. The former moved fast and early, securing a broad mix of sponsors and collaborators ahead of the Esports World Cup, the year’s flagship esports event, boasting over $70 million in prize money. BLAST, on the other hand, was riding the momentum of a packed competitive calendar, including the CS2 Major, RLCS Major, and a range of partnered tournaments, all backed by new and returning sponsorships.

Team organizations were also busy, with Team Vitality and Team Liquid standing out thanks to major acquisitions and a set of headline partnerships that stretched beyond typical endemic territory. From regional telecoms to international food brands, Q2 saw teams lean further into commercial growth and global relevance.

And then there were the quiet ripples that could grow into waves, including a key decision from one of the industry’s most influential publishers, which opens the door for a new category of partnerships going forward.

Esports teams

Team Vitality continued its rapid evolution in Q2, executing several strategic moves that strengthened both its competitive reach and commercial ambitions. Chief among them was the acquisition of Bigetron Esports, a move that grants Vitality direct access to Southeast Asia’s thriving mobile esports scene. Rebranded as Bigetron by Vitality, the team now competes in titles like MLBB, PUBG Mobile, and Free Fire, marking Vitality’s official expansion into one of the fast-growing regions in the industry. The deal also brings with it a sizable digital presence, with Bigetron boasting nearly 7 million followers across social platforms.

  Team Vitality expanded into Southeast Asia through its acquisition of Bigetron Esports 

Off the server, Vitality made bold plays to scale its brand beyond competition. The launch of RushBee, its new in-house marketing agency, signals an ambition to shape the conversation around youth culture and gaming, not just participate in it. Focused on Gen Z and Gen Alpha, the agency aims to craft native-first creatives across platforms like TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Twitch, while also offering services to external clients. The team’s new partnership with Nescafé reflects that approach: launched under the “Ready to Level Up” campaign, the collaboration blended lifestyle content, performance narratives, and product integration across Vitality’s player ecosystem.

Following Vitality’s expansion, Team Liquid also doubled down on growth, making strategic moves to diversify its presence. In Q2, Liquid finalized the acquisition of Team Gullit, a Dutch EA FC academy built around the legacy of Ruud Gullit. The deal folded Gullit’s top-tier players and the Alkmaar training base into Team Liquid’s infrastructure, extending Liquid’s footprint into virtual football and giving it a stronger foothold in European talent development. With player and roster integration across EA FC (and continued sponsorship connections like Philips OneBlade), Team Liquid strengthened both its competitive lineup and club ecosystem.

On the commercial front, Team Liquid partnered with ergonomics innovator Blacklyte in a collaboration that goes beyond typical sponsorship. Together, they co-developed a custom gaming chair and desk, shaped by pro-player feedback and now featured across Liquid’s training facilities worldwide. The partnership debuted at the CS2 Austin Major with the launch of a special edition product line, accompanied by fan activations on-site.

  Blacklyte became Team Liquid’s gaming chair partner 

Q2 saw a steady flow of endemic partnerships, particularly in hardware and gaming peripherals, spanning top global teams. Industry giants like AMD, Logitech, Intel, Razer, ASUS, Pulsar, Blacklyte, AndaSeat and Anthros extended or launched new collaborations with organizations worldwide: from 100 Thieves in the US and FURIA in Brazil to Team Spirit in Europe and Paper Rex in Southeast Asia.

Alongside hardware and peripherals, energy drinks remain a pillar of endemic esports sponsorship. This quarter saw two major players cement their presence with notable signings: Red Bull extended its footprint by partnering with Team Falcons, while Monster Energy secured deals with top-tier teams, including Korea’s Hanwha Life Esports and North America’s OpTic Gaming. Both companies are doubling down where it counts, backing teams with strong regional followings and passionate fan bases, keeping energy drinks front and center in some of the world’s most-watched esports scenes.

Beyond endemic brands, Q2 saw teams branching into fresh categories, forging partnerships that highlight esports’ widening cultural reach. Fnatic teamed up with McDonald’s UK for a bold co-branded campaign around one of the burgers, while FlyQuest joined forces with Korean skincare brand BRMUD, bringing self-care into the gaming conversation.

In a unique blend of pop culture and esports, T1 partnered with Disney Korea to launch an exclusive merch collection tied to the “Mickey and Friends: Seoul Tour 2025” campaign. Meanwhile, Vietnam’s GAM Esports struck a deal with airline Vietjet, combining travel perks with fan activations and jersey branding.

Tech collaborations also made waves this quarter. Both Gen.G and Cloud9 partnered with AI startup Theta Labs to roll out smart chatbots for both organizations that engage fans through interactive content, real-time updates, and community events. 

Game publishers and tournament organizers

Shifting the spotlight to publishers and tournament organizers, Riot Games made some of the most talked-about moves of the quarter. In a decision that could reshape commercial dynamics across two of esports’ biggest titles, Riot officially lifted its ban on betting sponsorships for League of Legends and Valorant teams across the Americas and EMEA.

The policy change opens the door for teams to pursue deals with gambling brands, an opportunity long restricted in Riot-sanctioned esports. While the move is expected to unlock new revenue streams for top orgs and funnel additional funding into Tier 2 ecosystems, prize pools, and integrity initiatives, it also sparked debate around ethical boundaries and potential risks, particularly with regard to match-fixing and youth protection.

Earlier in the quarter, Riot also announced a multi-year partnership with Coinbase, naming the crypto exchange its exclusive blockchain and cryptocurrency partner for LoL and Valorant esports. The deal includes in-broadcast segments, on-site activations, and various fan-facing initiatives designed to deepen engagement and test new digital finance integrations in the competitive gaming space. Though unrelated to the betting policy shift, the Coinbase deal reinforces Riot’s interest in broadening the commercial framework around its esports properties.

  Riot Games entered the crypto space in a partnership with Coinbase 

As the Esports World Cup 2025 kicked off in Riyadh, the Esports World Cup Foundation continued its push to build a strong partner ecosystem supporting the event’s global ambitions. Among the standout collaborations is a multi-year agreement with Amazon Ads, which leverages Twitch and Prime Video to amplify fan engagement and broaden viewership worldwide.

Regional powerhouse stc Group also took center stage as a principal sponsor, providing critical support for the event’s connectivity and infrastructure across the Middle East. Meanwhile, popular anime streaming service Crunchyroll joined the roster, activating fan experiences on-site and rolling out exclusive giveaways throughout the eight-week festival. Building on this momentum, the EWCF also secured a significant partnership with PepsiCo in July, adding another major global brand to the sponsor lineup and aiming to enhance fan activations both digitally and on-site as the event unfolds.

BLAST continued to dominate the esports event scene in Q2, bolstering its portfolio with strategic partnerships across major tournaments. A standout collaboration was with Nova Wallet, a fast-growing self-custodial mobile wallet for the Polkadot ecosystem that enables seamless staking, cross-chain transfers, and access to decentralized apps, bringing innovative blockchain technology closer to esports audiences.

Alongside this, BLAST’s flagship competitions like the RLCS Major in Raleigh and CS2 Austin Major featured a wide range of sponsors spanning tech, gaming gear, and lifestyle brands (see our article for full details). Additionally, BLAST expanded its global reach via a partnership with Reliance Rise, signaling a focused effort to grow esports in India, one of the fastest-expanding markets worldwide.

  Lamborghini partners with DreamHack, becoming the latest luxury car brand to enter esports 

DreamHack (as part of ESL FACEIT Group) elevated the event experience through high-profile partnerships with luxury automotive brand Lamborghini and energy drink giant Red Bull at DreamHack Dallas. Lamborghini made its festival debut with a 300-square-meter booth featuring immersive racing simulators, Web3 activations, and a custom-liveried Revuelto car showcased both physically and digitally in the Asphalt Legends Unite game. The event also included the Lamborghini Revuelto Esports Challenge, where top players competed for exclusive merchandise and VIP experiences. Meanwhile, Red Bull, as the official energy drink partner, energized the festival with fan activations and hosted the Red Bull Home Ground Valorant tournament, culminating in live finals on the main stage.

Influencers and esports athletes 

When it comes to individual influencer and pro player partnerships, Red Bull was the most active brand in Q2, steadily growing its roster across multiple esports titles. Among its newest signees was Tyson “TenZ” Ngo, the renowned Valorant star and content creator boasting millions of followers across different socials. The brand also brought on Marc “Caedrel” Lamont, a former League of Legends pro who has become a leading streamer and coach. In the Fortnite scene, Red Bull signed two major talents: Ali “SypherPK” Hassan, known for his educational content, and Kyle “Mongraal” Jackson, a British pro celebrated for his success with FaZe Clan. 

  Mongraal is now part of Red Bull’s squad of gaming creators 

Among other deals, Mathieu “ZywOo” Herbaut, a prominent Counter-Strike 2 professional, unveiled his signature gaming mouse, “The Chosen”, in collaboration with gaming peripherals brand Pulsar. Developed over several months with input from Prodigy Agency, the mouse is tailored for palm grip users, reflecting ZywOo’s personal preferences. 

DXRacer announced a global partnership with legendary Counter-Strike player Kenny “kennyS” Schrub, naming him their first-ever Global Brand Ambassador. This collaboration highlights a long-standing relationship between kennyS and DXRacer, dating back to his early days in esports. As part of the partnership, DXRacer introduced the Martian-Pro Series electric gaming chair, featuring motorized reclining adjustments, customizable lumbar support, and a high-capacity battery. 

That wraps up our Q2 esports deals overview. For more in-depth analysis, exclusive content, and extensive data across the industry, be sure to check out our monthly reports available exclusively to PRO subscribers. Dive deeper into the biggest deals of June and May, and stay ahead of the curve with all the insights you need!

MIDLAND, Mich. (WNEM) – Several current and incoming Northwood University students will compete in one of the world’s premier esports tournaments, the Esports World Cup (EWC) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The school said the students will represent top-tier professional organizations across two major titles: Call of Duty and Overwatch.

Northwood said Jeremiah Harrison, a current student from Ferris, Texas, will represent Team WaR in Call of Duty during the tournament’s July 24–27 bracket.

Meanwhile, Northwood said the Overwatch portion of the EWC will take place July 31–Aug. 3, and the Timberwolves will have its largest representation ever. Current students Joseph Cambriani, of Plano, Texas, and Julian Pizana, of El Paso, Texas, will team up with incoming students Ryan Cooper, of Hopatcong, New Jersey, and Rocco Acobacci, of Bristol, Pennsylvania, under the professional organization NTMR (Nightmare). The group will also be competing together as Northwood’s starting roster for the 2025–26 collegiate season.

“I feel as though NU has always played a significant role in my success as a professional,” said Pizana. “Being surrounded by like-minded, passionate competitors motivates me to work harder every single day. Plus, the program has always been incredibly generous and flexible with the different opportunities they’ve presented me, and they have given me a multitude of resources to help me succeed in my professional career. I couldn’t be more stoked to give Northwood some much-deserved representation at the Esports World Cup.”

Northwood Overwatch alumni Landon McGee and Diego Moran will also be competing in the event, but as opponents, making Northwood the only university with representation across multiple game titles in the 2025 Esports World Cup.

“For the program, it shows that our efforts in talent development and player scouting have been paying off,” said Northwood Esports Coach Jacob R. Jacob. “While still top talent, many of these players were just shy of qualifying for major events like the Esports World Cup in the past. Now, thanks to the environment we’ve created — surrounding players with like-minded, driven teammates — we’re seeing Northwood become a launchpad to the professional scene.”

Coach Aden Frosch said it is rare to see collegiate representation at a global level.

“Prior to this year, only one other current Northwood student had competed at the event — Aaron ‘Noxes’ Cadiz, in 2023 and 2024, as a coach for the South African Rocket League team, Limitless,” said Frosch. “Now, in 2025, we’re sending five players across two titles — more than most colleges combined. It’s a testament to what makes Northwood Esports different.”

The Esports World Cup features a $7 million prize pool across 26 titles.

For more information about Northwood’s Esports program, visit here.

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If you’ve ever wondered where high-stakes gambling meets world-class luxury, you’re in the right place. The most expensive casinos in the world aren’t just places to roll dice—they’re billion-dollar architectural marvels that fuse elite design, hospitality, and entertainment into one seamless experience. From the shimmering skyline of Singapore to the neon glow of Las Vegas, these properties are more than casinos—they’re destination resorts built to dazzle. These mega-complexes represent the pinnacle of luxury and are responsible for attracting some of the wealthiest clientele on earth. Unsurprisingly, these also rank as the most luxurious casinos globally and consistently operate as casinos with the most money, thanks to their elite guests, jaw-dropping bets, and diversified entertainment offerings.

• These casinos blend extravagant design with multi-billion-dollar construction budgets.
• Each destination represents the global elite of luxury gambling and resort travel.

Aria Resort & Casino – Las Vegas, USA | $8.5 Billion

Leading the list of the most expensive casinos in the world is the Aria, located in the heart of Las Vegas. Part of the ambitious CityCenter complex, the Aria cost a staggering $8.5 billion to build. It features an ultra-modern design with over 4,000 rooms, a massive gaming floor, state-of-the-art entertainment venues, and even its own fine art collection. Every inch of Aria screams high-end, making it one of the most luxurious casinos in the United States. It’s also among the casinos with the most money, raking in gaming revenue, resort fees, and fine-dining profits year after year.

• Aria’s scale and sustainability set a new standard for casino design.
• It’s an iconic example of how Las Vegas reinvents itself through luxury.

Marina Bay Sands – Singapore | $6.8 Billion

Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands is not just one of the most luxurious casinos in the world—it’s a global architectural icon. The resort cost $8 billion to complete and features three interconnected towers topped by the world-famous SkyPark and infinity pool. The casino itself spans over 160,000 square feet and caters to elite gamblers from across Asia and the Middle East. Marina Bay Sands is widely recognized as one of the casinos with the most money, thanks to its massive gaming operations and luxury brand partnerships. It’s a striking combination of style, revenue, and innovation—perfectly fitting the profile of one of the most expensive casinos in the world.

• Its rooftop pool and design draw influencers and billionaires alike.
• Gaming, shopping, and fine dining fuel its multibillion-dollar annual revenue.

Resorts World Sentosa – Singapore | $5.2 Billion

Just a short drive from Marina Bay Sands is another Singaporean giant: Resorts World Sentosa. At a cost of $5.2 billion, it’s not only one of the most expensive casinos in the world but also one of the most expansive, combining a casino, a Universal Studios theme park, and the SEA Aquarium into one breathtaking resort. What makes Resorts World truly special is its ability to cater to both families and high-rolling gamblers. Its mix of entertainment and opulence solidifies its reputation among the most luxurious casinos and adds to its status as one of the casinos with the most money in Southeast Asia.

• Family attractions make it a cross-generational luxury destination.
• Casino operations are central to Singapore’s booming gambling industry.

Wynn & Encore – Las Vegas, USA | $5 Billion

Built by casino mogul Steve Wynn, the combined Wynn and Encore resorts in Las Vegas are a testament to ultra-luxury gaming. With a combined development cost of around $5 billion, they feature designer suites, Michelin-starred restaurants, and boutique shopping corridors. Wynn is consistently listed among the most luxurious casinos in the world and remains a staple of high-stakes Vegas culture. These resorts continue to be some of the casinos with the most money, thanks to their reputation for discretion, exclusivity, and exceptional guest service.

• Attracts elite clientele from finance, sports, and Hollywood.
• Interiors blend classic elegance with high-tech luxury amenities.

The Cosmopolitan – Las Vegas, USA | $3.9 Billion

With an edgy, youthful vibe and a price tag of $3.9 billion, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas redefined what it means to be trendy and upscale. Frequently listed among the most luxurious casinos, it combines contemporary architecture, art installations, and world-class nightlife into a compact yet impactful space. The Cosmo’s high roller rooms and booming nightclub scene make it one of the casinos with the most money in the Vegas market, particularly popular among younger, wealthier players.

• Designed to blend upscale art, fashion, and nightlife.
• Its profitability stems from a strong millennial and Gen Z luxury base.

The Venetian – Macau, China | $2.4 Billion

The Venetian Macao is a spectacle in itself. At $2.4 billion, it mirrors its Las Vegas counterpart but on an even grander scale. With more than 500,000 square feet of gaming space and 3,000 suites, it’s not only one of the most expensive casinos in the world, but also one of the largest. Its recreation of Venice’s canals and gondolas adds to its aesthetic charm, securing its spot among the most luxurious casinos in Asia. It’s also one of the busiest casinos with the most money, especially in VIP baccarat, which dominates the Asian gambling market.

• Offers one of the world’s largest casino gaming floors.
• Asia’s elite frequent it for exclusivity, luxury shopping, and prestige.

Bellagio – Las Vegas, USA | $1.6 Billion

A landmark in Las Vegas since 1998, the Bellagio remains one of the most luxurious casinos to this day. With its famed dancing fountains, fine art gallery, and Italian-inspired design, it cost $1.6 billion to build—a record at the time. Though not the most modern, it remains a cornerstone of Vegas luxury and continues to operate as one of the casinos with the most money, particularly in the high-stakes poker scene.

• Hosts some of the world’s top poker tournaments and private games.
• Maintains old-school elegance in a rapidly modernizing Strip.

Morpheus – Macau, China | $1.1 Billion

One of the most architecturally daring casinos, Morpheus cost $1.1 billion and features a futuristic exoskeleton structure designed by Zaha Hadid. It’s the crown jewel of the City of Dreams complex and focuses on attracting ultra-wealthy guests from China, Japan, and the Middle East. As one of the most expensive casinos in the world, Morpheus has redefined what it means to be visually bold and technologically advanced. Its VIP experience has quickly made it one of the casinos with the most money in Asia.

• Architectural innovation sets it apart in a city full of grandeur.
• Caters to high-limit players with privacy-first luxury experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions About the World’s Most Expensive Casinos

What is the most expensive casino in the world?

The Aria Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, part of the CityCenter complex, cost $8.5 billion to build, making it the most expensive casino in the world.

Which casinos are considered the most luxurious in the world?

Casinos like Marina Bay Sands, Wynn Las Vegas, and Morpheus in Macau are widely regarded as some of the most luxurious casinos in the world due to their design, amenities, and elite clientele.

How much money do the top casinos make annually?

The most expensive and most luxurious casinos in the world can generate billions in annual revenue, especially those in Las Vegas and Macau.

What makes a casino one of the casinos with the most money?

Casinos with the most money typically have high-stakes gaming, luxury retail, premium accommodations, and diversified revenue from entertainment and dining.

Are these casinos open to the public or only high rollers?

While most expensive casinos welcome the general public, they also feature exclusive high-limit rooms and VIP experiences tailored to ultra-wealthy patrons.

More Than Just Chips and Cards

These aren’t just casinos—they’re monuments to design, innovation, and unimaginable wealth. The most expensive casinos in the world continue to push the boundaries of what a gaming resort can be, attracting ultra-wealthy clientele and producing billions in revenue each year. As the line between entertainment and opulence continues to blur, these most luxurious casinos stand at the pinnacle of elite travel—and will likely remain the casinos with the most money for years to come.

• These venues serve as global icons of high-roller entertainment and luxury living.
• They symbolize the unmatched synergy between architecture, gaming, and affluence.

Global gaming stocks surge 28 per cent

Cyprus-based game developer and publisher GDEV was included in the latest Drake Star Global Gaming Report for the second quarter of 2025, with valuation metrics that signal stability and strong fundamentals despite recent market volatility.

As of December 31, 2024, GDEV shares were trading at $15.06, giving the company a market capitalisation of $273.4 million and an enterprise value of $135.6 million.

Its last twelve months (LTM) revenue stood at $420.9 million, with LTM EBITDA of $45.1 million.

This translates to an enterprise value-to-revenue multiple of 0.3x for both LTM and next twelve months (NTM), while the EV/EBITDA multiple was 3.5x for LTM and 3.1x for NTM.

The company posted modest but positive EBITDA growth of 4 per cent for both the LTM and expected NTM periods.

Revenue growth was negative 6 per cent in both periods, yet GDEV maintained an EBITDA margin of 10.7 per cent. In addition, its price-to-earnings multiple was 10.9x LTM and is projected at 7.6x NTM.

These metrics position GDEV favourably compared to peers in the mobile-focused gaming sector, especially in light of market averages.

Across the broader sample analysed by Drake Star, the average EV/EBITDA multiple was 6.0x for LTM and 4.0x for NTM, with average revenue growth of negative 3 per cent LTM and a projected 8 per cent increase NTM.

GDEV’s efficient capital structure and consistent margins suggest a measured and sustainable operational approach, despite facing declining revenue.

Meanwhile, the Drake Star Gaming Index, which tracks 35 major listed gaming companies, rose by 28 per cent in the first half of 2025, outperforming the S&P 500’s 5 per cent gain, reflecting renewed investor interest in gaming stocks.

Top performers included Square Enix, Roblox, and Konami, while in Europe, CD Projekt RED, everplay group, and MTG led the charge.

Furthermore, in terms of the US market, Roblox, Corsair, and Take-Two posted strong gains.

Gaming mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity remained steady in the second quarter of 2025, with 46 deals announced.

The largest transaction was Krafton’s $516 million acquisition of ADK, a Japanese firm with interests in advertising, animation, and mobile game development.

Other major deals included Epic Games acquiring Loci, Apple purchasing RAC7, and PlayVS acquiring Generation Esports and PlayFly College Esports.

PC and console gaming tied with blockchain gaming for the highest number of M&A deals, following a sharp rise in blockchain-related transactions.

Venture capital activity also saw a high-profile exit with CVC’s investment in Dream Games, valued at approximately $2.5 billion.

Other notable financings included Tencent’s $80 million investment in Arrowhead, $28 million raised by Wolves Esports Club from Lvfa Group, and $27 million secured by AI gaming startup Sett.

Additional funding rounds were completed by Turkish mobile studio Bigger Games, which raised $25 million, and Hybe IM with $21 million.

Key investors over the past year included Play Ventures, BITKRAFT, and Makers Fund, while at the seed stage, Goodwater, TIRTA, and 1AM Gaming led activity.

On the strategic side, major players such as Krafton, Tencent, and Samsung were the most active, while Animoca, Spartan, and Gam3Girl Ventures were leaders in blockchain gaming investments.

On the public market side, Take-Two Interactive announced plans for a $1 billion public stock offering, with an option to sell an additional $150 million.

GameStop also announced a debt raise exceeding $2 billion, while Embracer plans to spin off Coffee Stain Group as a separate publicly listed entity by year-end.

The report also stated that Discord is reportedly in advanced talks with banks regarding a potential IPO.

Drake Star further stated that it anticipates that the strong performance of gaming stocks in early 2025 will drive a new wave of M&A activity in late 2025 and 2026, as companies leverage higher equity valuations to pursue growth.

The report also expects a resurgence in IPO activity supported by a broader market recovery.

Moreover, private equity is projected to remain active, with a mix of take-private deals and growth equity placements.

Finally, key growth areas include AI and technology platforms, although later-stage funding is expected to remain difficult to secure.

The gaming industry’s shift to digital-first engagement has created a critical inflection point for operators like Caesars Entertainment (CZR). As traditional brick-and-mortar casinos face saturation in key markets, Caesars is leveraging its iconic brand equity and strategic partnerships to dominate the online gambling space. Central to this strategy is its 2025 trilogy of live dealer studios, culminating in the Michigan launch—a move that underscores the company’s ability to blend physical legacy with cutting-edge digital innovation. This article examines how Caesars is accelerating its digital growth through bespoke studios, jurisdictional expansion, and ESG-driven credibility, while offering investors a compelling entry point into a still-underappreciated growth story.

The Michigan Launch: A Masterclass in Bespoke Digital Experience

Caesars’ Michigan studio, launched in July 2025, marks the third installment in its 2025 live dealer rollout, following successful launches in Pennsylvania (January 2025) and New Jersey (April 2025). Each studio is designed to replicate the opulence of Caesars Palace on the Las Vegas Strip, complete with custom-branded felts, partnerships with sports teams, and VIP-exclusive tables offering 1-to-1 high-limit blackjack interactions. This “Las Vegas in your living room” approach is no gimmick: the Michigan studio alone features five blackjack tables (including one VIP table), roulette, and baccarat, all streamed in high definition via Evolution Gaming’s advanced technology.

The strategic brilliance lies in jurisdictional dominance. By establishing studios in states like Michigan—a market with robust online gaming demand but limited high-end offerings—Caesars is capitalizing on its brand equity. Players in these regions are not just betting; they’re engaging with a trusted name synonymous with luxury, a moat no pure-play online operator can replicate.

The Evolution Partnership: Tech as a Competitive Weapon

Caesars’ collaboration with Evolution Gaming, a global leader in live dealer solutions, is pivotal. Evolution’s technology ensures seamless streaming, real-time interaction, and proprietary software that mimics the tactile feel of a physical casino. For instance, the VIP blackjack tables in Michigan use AI-driven cameras to track player bets and dealer interactions, creating a 1-to-1 experience previously confined to land-based venues.

This tech integration isn’t just about user experience—it’s about monetization. High rollers, traditionally a land-based demographic, now have a reason to stay engaged online. Meanwhile, Evolution’s operational expertise has already delivered tangible benefits: the New Jersey studio alone created 200 jobs, a testament to the economic multiplier effect of these investments.

Loyalty Integration: Bridging Online and Offline Worlds

Caesars Rewards, the company’s loyalty program, is the glue holding its digital and physical ecosystems together. Online players in Michigan, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey can now earn rewards redeemable at over 50 physical Caesars properties, including hotels, restaurants, and spas. This integration creates a virtuous cycle: online engagement drives foot traffic to casinos, while physical customers are incentivized to try digital platforms.

The data speaks to success: Caesars’ Digital segment reported a 53% year-over-year surge in iGaming revenue in Q1 2025, with Adjusted EBITDA jumping from $5 million to $43 million. This margin expansion—driven by lower reinvestment costs and higher hold percentages—suggests the business is finally scaling efficiently.

ESG and Responsible Gaming: A Necessary Foundation

Skepticism around online gambling’s social impact remains a regulatory and reputational hurdle. Caesars has preemptively addressed this with RG Check accreditation in Ontario (2024) and a National Council on Problem Gambling award for its corporate social responsibility efforts. Its strict 21+ policy and access to counseling resources ensure it adheres to the highest standards, a critical differentiator in markets where scrutiny is intensifying.

Financials: Margin Improvements and Analyst Optimism

The Michigan launch and broader digital expansion are underpinning Caesars’ margin turnaround. While total debt remains elevated at $12.3 billion, the company’s free cash flow (FCF) is improving. CFO Bret Yunker highlighted “significant FCF growth in 2025” due to lower capex and interest costs, enabling debt reduction and share buybacks. In April .

Analysts are taking notice. Though StockStory labeled CZR “Underperform” due to debt concerns, consensus estimates project a 12-month price target of $38.80, up from $28.36 post-earnings. Bullish calls from JP Morgan ($47 target) and CFRA’s “Strong Buy” ($39 target) reflect optimism about the digital moat’s scalability.

Risks and Considerations

• Debt Overhang: Caesars’ leverage ratio (6.19x) remains a liability, though FCF improvements are a mitigant.
• Regulatory Hurdles: State-by-state licensing and ESG compliance demands could slow expansion.
• Competition: Rivals like MGM Resorts and DraftKings are also investing in live dealer tech, though Caesars’ brand power offers a defensible edge.

Investment Thesis: Capitalize on the Underappreciated Digital Moat

Caesars’ live dealer trilogy is more than a tech play—it’s a reinvention of its core business model. The Michigan launch exemplifies how the company is leveraging its legacy to dominate emerging markets, while its ESG and loyalty strategies reduce reputational risk. With Digital EBITDA up 860% year-over-year and FCF turning positive, the stock trades at 1.6x forward EV/EBITDA, well below its historical average.

Actionable Takeaway: Investors should consider a gradual accumulation of CZR at current levels. The stock’s 7.09% drop in average price targets since early 2025 reflects overdone pessimism about debt. As FCF improves and digital margins scale, a re-rating to 2.5x EV/EBITDA could unlock 40% upside.

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Historical data shows that CZR has a strong track record around earnings calls, with a 75% win rate over three days and 60% over ten days post-announcements since 2022. The maximum return during this period reached 1.73% on the tenth day, further bolstering the case for short-term momentum following key disclosures.

Final Note: A Legacy Brand Reborn

In an industry where digital disruption often spells obsolescence, Caesars is proving that brand equity can be a rocket fuel for innovation. The Michigan studio isn’t just a casino—it’s a bridge between the glitter of Las Vegas and the screens of tomorrow. For investors, this is a rare chance to back a proven leader in a sector primed for growth.

Disclosure: The author holds no position in CZR at the time of writing. Research and analysis are based on publicly available data. Always conduct your own due diligence before making investment decisions.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – The Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) today announced the return of Mastercard as an official event supplier for the 2025 Esports World Cup, the world’s largest esports event, set to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from July 7 to August 24. The renewed partnership underscores Mastercard’s continued commitment to elevating digital experiences, championing youth engagement, and supporting the Kingdom’s rapidly growing gaming ecosystem.    

Through the collaboration with the Esports World Cup, Mastercard will introduce a range of immersive on-ground activations and seamless payment solutions designed to enhance the overall fan journey. This will include creating a bespoke version of the Mastercard Gamer Academy, where Mastercard, in collaboration with G2 Esports and Esports World Cup, designed a one-of-a-kind experience that will provide 10 successful applicants with the opportunity to be mentored by professionals on how they could pursue a career in esports. Further, fans can collect Priceless Points by interacting with the games and activities available at the Mastercard booth for the chance to win ultimate gaming gear that will be rewarded to the top scoring players. Further, there will be live appearances by G2 Esports players to be hosted as fireside chats to talk about areas like pro esports. The brand’s presence will emphasize the intersection of technology, gaming, and culture, anchored by initiatives that highlight and support local Saudi talent.

“Mastercard’s return as a partner reflects the Esports World Cup’s evolution from a tournament into a global cultural platform,” said Mohammed Al Nimer, Chief Commercial Officer, Esports World Cup Foundation. “Together, we’re creating impactful experiences that go beyond gameplay, uniting youth empowerment, digital inclusion, and immersive fan engagement. Mastercard’s focus on Priceless experiences and innovation makes them an ideal partner to help us inspire the next generation of gamers and connect with fans in meaningful and memorable ways.”

Saud Swar, Country Manager, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan and other Levant, Mastercard added, “We are proud to deepen our partnership with the Esports World Cup Foundation as we continue to unlock the potential of gaming in the Kingdom. In line with Saudi Vision 2030, Mastercard is committed to connecting people to their passions, driving innovation, and inspiring the next generation. Our priceless experiences help empower youth, promote digital inclusion, and celebrate Saudi Arabia’s vibrant esports culture.”

This partnership builds on Mastercard’s long-standing global support for the gaming and esports industry, including its strategic sponsorship of Riot Games’ League of Legends and VALORANT. It reinforces Mastercard’s leadership in digital payments and its role in shaping future-facing experiences through youth engagement and innovation.

The 2025 Esports World Cup will host 25 tournaments across 24 game titles, bringing together over 2,000 elite players and 200 Clubs from more than 100 countries. With a record-breaking prize pool of over $70 million, the event will offer fans a comprehensive entertainment experience, from high-stakes competition and live music to anime cafés, retro arcades, cosplay showcases, and more, cementing Riyadh’s position as a global esports and entertainment hub.

To learn more about EWC, visit esportsworldcup.com and follow Esports World Cup Foundation on LinkedIn.

About Mastercard

Mastercard powers economies and empowers people in 200+ countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we’re building a sustainable economy where everyone can prosper. We support a wide range of digital payments choices, making transactions secure, simple, smart and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help people, businesses and governments realize their greatest potential. www.mastercard.com

About The Esports World Cup

The Esports World Cup (EWC) is a premier annual sporting event and global celebration of competitive excellence and esports fandom. The competition features a unique cross-game format that pits the world’s top esports clubs against one another for the largest prize pool in esports history. Returning to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in the summer of 2025, the EWC will bring gaming and esports communities together again to crown the next Esports World Cup Club Champion. esportsworldcup.com

Esports World Cup media contact:

Anna Rozwandowicz

Head of PR

a.rozwandowicz@worldcupfoundation.org

Esports World Cup media contact:

press@worldcupfoundation.org

Mastercard media contact:

Sami Alshorafa

Communications Director – West Arabia

Sami.Alshorafa@mastercard.com

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