Kambi acquires Abios in SEK270m deal – esports betting

Kambi Expands Footprint in Esports with Acquisition of Abios for SEK270 Million

Kambi, a leading provider of sports betting solutions, has made a strategic move by acquiring esports data and technology provider Abios in a transaction valued at up to SEK270 million (£22.6 million/€26.4 million/$31.1 million). This acquisition is poised to enhance Kambi’s capabilities in a rapidly growing and dynamic sector.

The financial arrangement includes an initial payment of SEK150 million in cash, with a potential additional payment of up to SEK120 million contingent on the performance metrics of Abios’s esports operations. This performance-based structure aligns with best practices in ensuring value creation and shared growth.

Kristian Nylén, Kambi’s Chief Executive Officer and co-founder, emphasized the significance of this acquisition in broadening Kambi’s esports portfolio. “The esports category has been under our careful observation for a considerable time. We believe it is the opportune moment to deepen our involvement in this high-potential vertical. Abios brings an essential esports expertise that complements our extensive heritage in sports betting,” he stated.

Abios is a well-regarded provider of data, odds, and visualizations to leading operators, having reported revenues of SEK18 million in 2020, with clients including notable names such as Kindred, LeoVegas, and Pinnacle. Kambi has committed to maintaining Abios’s operational independence post-acquisition, ensuring that their clients continue to receive exceptional service regardless of their affiliation with Kambi.

Abios’s leadership team will remain intact, with Chief Executive Oskar Fröberg and Chief Technology Officer Anton Janér continuing in their respective roles. Nylén expressed his confidence in their leadership, stating, “Oskar and Anton have cultivated a talented team that understands the nuances of the esports landscape. I am eager to witness how the integration of Abios into Kambi’s modular platform will elevate the esports betting experience.”

Oskar Fröberg echoed this sentiment, describing the long-standing relationship between the two companies. “Kambi represents the ideal partner for Abios. They not only trust our capabilities but share our values and long-term vision,” he remarked. He further highlighted the compelling opportunities within esports, stating, “We look forward to collaborating closely with Kambi to leverage their experience and infrastructure, enhancing our entrepreneurial initiatives.”

Additionally, Abios has established itself as the official esports data partner for Clarion Gaming, sponsoring the esports sections on platforms such as iGaming Business and ICE365.com. This partnership showcases Abios’s commitment to fostering growth within the esports community and enhancing its visibility in the iGaming sector.

In conclusion, this acquisition reflects Kambi’s strategic vision to capitalize on the burgeoning esports market, a sector characterized by rapid growth and increasing consumer engagement. As they work to integrate Abios’s capabilities, Kambi is well-positioned to establish itself as a dominant force in esports betting, paving the way for future innovations and market expansion.