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Merkur Spielbanken Beteiligungs GmbH, a subsidiary of Merkur AG has reached an agreement to acquire a controlling interest in Société Française de Casinos (SFC).
The development marks a significant move by Merkur to expand its footprint within the French regulated gambling market.
On 27 August, Merkur signed a put option agreement with GPG Groupe Philippe Ginestet and DOFA, enabling the purchase of Casigrangi.
What is Feng Shen?
According to David, the step forms part of Entain’s broader initiative to streamline operations, increase efficiency and improve customer experience, with the company aiming to create centres of excellence across locations.
“The proposed changes are being made to ensure our business remains competitive, financially resilient and well positioned for the future as our sector faces an increasingly challenging operating environment,” David said.
“This decision has not been made lightly and our immediate priority is to support those of our colleagues who may be impacted through this transition.”
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The Commission launched its investigation into various reports of insider betting on the election date in June 2024 after Ladbrokes flagged a bet placed by Williams, who was recorded as a politically exposed person.
Further bets flagged by operators involved other politically sensitive individuals, including Metropolitan Police officers and political advisers. The Commission charged 15 people total in April 2025. Four have now pleaded guilty.
The offences relate to special betting markets that let customers wager on the exact date of the general election.
