DigiPlus taking its time with physical casinos

DigiPlus Interactive Corp. is keeping its options open on a possible move into land-based casinos, saying it is prepared to “walk away” from opportunities if risks outweigh potential returns.

Speaking after the company’s annual stockholders’ meeting, DigiPlus chair Eusebio Tanco said the digital gaming firm continues to explore opportunities in the brick-and-mortar casino space but is taking a cautious approach amid an uncertain business environment.

“We’re looking at the opportunities,” Tanco said. “If we can make money, we go into it. If we have to take too much of a risk, we walk away.”

The remarks suggest that any acquisition or expansion into traditional casino operations may not happen as quickly as some investors expect, particularly as economic and geopolitical challenges continue to cloud the outlook.

Tanco said DigiPlus has adopted the same discipline in its approach to international expansion plans. He cited the company’s decision to delay the relaunch of its Brazil operations rather than rushing into the market.

The company initially planned to move aggressively into Brazil, but later decided to recalibrate its strategy to improve efficiency and competitiveness before proceeding.

“We studied. Let’s hold back. Let’s not jump into it straight away. Make sure everything is okay before we go in,” Tanco said.

Despite the cautious stance, DigiPlus remains optimistic about its growth prospects.

Tanco said business performance in April and May showed signs of improvement, although he acknowledged that the company continues to face the same geopolitical pressures affecting many economies.

He said DigiPlus should continue growing, although its performance would ultimately be tied to broader economic conditions.

See Also

7-eleven sees boost from inflation-hit consumers

“All industries track the gross domestic product growth,” Tanco said, noting that companies cannot be completely insulated from a slowing economy.

Meanwhile, outgoing president Andy Tsui said the company was on track to deliver a stronger second quarter after posting what he described as stable results in the first three months of the year.

According to Tsui, DigiPlus has been implementing initiatives aimed at improving profit margins, giving management confidence that the April-to-June period would compare favorably with the previous quarter.

The company is also nearing the final stages of preparations for its Brazil relaunch, which Tsui earlier said could take place this June.

At the same time, DigiPlus has begun building the team that will support its planned South Africa venture, which is targeted for launch in 2027.