Japanese entertainment and technology conglomerate Mixi has successfully cemented its control over Australian sportsbook PointsBet, increasing its voting power to a commanding 66.43%.
The move, executed through its subsidiary Mixi Australia, represents a significant jump from its previous holding of 61.59% and effectively concludes a competitive and closely watched takeover process.
The acquisition was finalized through an off-market bid where Mixi purchased shares at a cash price of AU$1.25 each.
This offer was ultimately favored by the PointsBet board, which had previously endorsed it over a rival all-scrip proposal from competitor Betr.
The board’s recommendation highlighted the superior value and certainty that the cash offer provided to its shareholders, a sentiment that was later validated by an independent expert’s report which deemed the competing Betr proposal “not considered fair.”
For Mixi, a company primarily known for its social networking and mobile gaming products in Japan, this takeover represents a major strategic pivot into the global sports betting arena.
With a controlling interest now secured, Japanese Mixi is positioned to dictate the governance and future direction of PointsBet. This new chapter for the Australian-founded brand follows a period of significant change, including the sale of its U.S. assets to Fanatics.
The takeover will likely see a renewed focus on solidifying PointsBet’s market position in Australia and leveraging Mixi’s technological expertise to enhance the platform’s offerings.
The successful bid concludes a period of uncertainty and places PointsBet firmly under new leadership, poised for a new phase of strategic development. like its first Marble Race title, reflecting a broader industry trend toward gamification within the live casino space.
