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Evoke PLC, the parent of William Hill and 888, has opened a wide-ranging review of its options, saying a sale of selected assets or even the whole company is on the table. The reassessment follows a sharp step-up in UK taxes on online gambling that is set to squeeze margins and curb investment capacity.

The company emphasized that no outcome is guaranteed and discussions are at an early stage. Evoke has brought in Morgan Stanley and Rothschild & Co to advise on the process, a sign it is testing both partial divestments and a full change of control alongside other restructuring moves.

How the UK tax changes hit operators

From April 2026 the Remote Gaming Duty on online casino-style products is scheduled to jump from 21% to 40%. A year later, from April 2027, a 25% rate will apply to remote betting under General Betting Duty, while remote wagers on UK horse racing are due to remain at 15%. The government has also signaled the abolition of Bingo Duty from April 2026.

For Evoke, whose revenue mix is heavily UK-skewed, the new regime materially lifts its cost base. Management has warned of a sizable annual profit headwind once the measures fully phase in, making portfolio reshaping and capital allocation changes increasingly likely.

Possible deal paths

One scenario would see Evoke sell discrete brand families or regional units to pay down debt and concentrate on jurisdictions with steadier tax and regulatory outlooks. Another is a full sale to a buyer willing to absorb near-term tax pressure in exchange for long-term scale and brand equity.

Industry watchers point to strategic operators seeking UK market share and private equity funds as potential bidders, though price will depend on how quickly cash flows reset under the new duties. Any transaction would face complex licensing, regulatory and competition approvals across multiple markets.

Source: https://sportclan.ru/blog/evoke-rassmatrivaet-prodazhu-william-hill-i-888-iz-za-rosta-nalogov-na-gembling-v-britanii/