Entain, a major player in the global gambling industry, has announced Stella David as its permanent CEO amid impressive first-quarter results for 2025.
Key Takeaways:
- Entain reports 9% year-over-year increase in total Group Net Gaming Revenue for Q1 2025
- Online operations show significant growth, with overall online NGR up 12%
- Stella David appointed permanent CEO, replacing Gavin Isaacs
Strong Start to 2025 for Entain
Entain plc (LSE: ENT), a powerhouse in the sports betting and gaming sector, has kicked off 2025 with a bang. The company’s first-quarter results have exceeded expectations, showcasing the resilience and growth potential of the gambling industry.
For the three months ending March 31, Entain recorded a 9% year-over-year increase in total Group Net Gaming Revenue (NGR), or 11% on a constant currency basis. This performance builds on the company’s [stable 2024 financial results](https://www.gamblingnews.com/news/entain-posts-robust-2024-financials-expects-continued-growth/).
Online Operations Lead the Charge
The company’s online operations have been particularly impressive. Overall online NGR, including the U.S. market, climbed 12%, or 15% on a constant currency basis. Outside of the U.S., online revenue was up 6%, or 10% on a constant currency basis, surpassing internal expectations.
The UK & Ireland online segment was a standout performer, surging 23% on a constant currency basis. Brazil, another key growth market, posted a 31% jump in NGR, aligning with forecasts.
BetMGM Exceeds Expectations
BetMGM, Entain’s joint venture with MGM Resorts International, has also shown strong performance. The brand exceeded expectations with NGR up 34% year-on-year on a constant currency basis. BetMGM is on track to achieve EBITDA profitability in 2025 and is targeting $2.4–$2.5 billion in revenue for the year.
Retail and International Markets
Retail performance was more modest, up 2%, with softer UK gaming activity balanced by better-than-expected sports margins. International markets overall grew 5%, with strong showings in Croatia and the CEE region. However, Australia saw an 8% decline due to gambler-friendly sports results.
Stella David Takes the Helm
In a significant leadership change, Stella David has been officially named the permanent chief executive officer of Entain. David, who has been acting as [interim chief](https://www.gamblingnews.com/news/entain-ceo-to-change-again-with-gavin-isaacs-departure/) since earlier this year, will step into the role full-time with immediate effect.
David, a [board member since 2021](https://www.gamblingnews.com/news/stella-david-and-vicky-jarman-step-in-entains-board-of-directors/), brings continuity and experience to the top job. She replaces Gavin Isaacs, who stepped down as CEO two months ago.
Commenting on the Q1 results, David described the start of the year as ‘strong.’ She added that their improved operational execution helped the company ‘exit 2024 with clear momentum, which has continued in Q1.’
Looking ahead, Entain is maintaining its guidance of mid-single-digit online NGR growth for 2025 while remaining confident in hitting market expectations for EBITDA. David emphasized that the company is ‘in the early stages’ of their ‘journey of improvement’ while ‘driving ahead at pace.’
