DigiPlus steps back from New Zealand gaming license bid
DigiPlus Interactive Corp. has decided to skip the final rounds of New Zealand’s auction for the right to apply for an online gaming license, following a further assessment of the market.
In a disclosure on Wednesday, the company said the decision came after “further market analysis and determination of market values.”
Overseas expansion
DigiPlus had disclosed on Aug. 4 the filing of an expression of interest to apply for a gaming license in New Zealand.
The firm’s board had earlier authorized the filing and designated signatories for the process.
The company said abstaining from the auction’s final rounds would have no impact on its businesses or alter its overseas growth plans.
“This results in no impact on the company’s businesses or deviation from the company’s international expansion strategy,” DigiPlus said.
It did not elaborate on the findings of its market assessment.
The decision comes as DigiPlus faces a separate regulatory setback in Brazil after President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva issued a provisional measure that immediately prohibited the operation, offering, intermediation and advertising of fixed-odds betting and online gaming activities.
Needs legislative nod
The measure remains subject to congressional approval within the constitutionally prescribed period, which may extend to 120 days.
DigiPlus said it was complying with the directive and prioritizing customer withdrawals and the return of customer funds within the prescribed period.
“The situation remains fluid and is not final, as the relevant legislative and legal processes continue to develop,” it said.
DigiPlus began preparations for its Brazil entry in 2024 and obtained definitive authority to operate in January 2025.
The company led by tycoon Eusebio Tanco has also obtained three licenses from South Africa’s Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board as part of its international expansion.
