Ainsworth Urges Shareholders to Back Novomatic’s AU$1 Takeover Bid

Ainsworth Game Technology has formally advised its remaining non-Novomatic shareholders to accept Novomatic’s ongoing AU$1.00 (US$0.67) per share takeover offer, describing the deal as both “fair and reasonable.”

Key Highlights:

• Independent experts and the Board Committee support Novomatic’s AU$1.00 per share proposal.
• Ainsworth expects the acquisition to close by 3 November 2025.
• Novomatic already controls 58.8% of Ainsworth and may seek ASX delisting if ownership exceeds 75%.

Details of the Bid

The supplier’s Independent Board Committee has issued a statement endorsing Novomatic’s offer, underlining that no alternative or superior proposals have surfaced. Currently holding 58.8% of Ainsworth, Novomatic is pushing towards a majority that would allow further corporate restructuring, including a potential delisting from the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX).

Ainsworth confirmed that shareholders should receive the official Target’s Statement by 17 September 2025, which includes the Independent Expert’s Report alongside detailed conditions of the deal.

Path to Delisting

If Novomatic achieves 75% ownership, the company plans to apply for Ainsworth’s voluntary delisting from the ASX. Should its stake rise to 90%, compulsory acquisition rules would trigger, requiring Ainsworth to be delisted.

Shareholder Guidance

The Independent Board Committee, led by Daniel Gladstone, emphasized the importance of carefully reviewing all documents before making a decision. Gladstone noted:

“We strongly encourage shareholders to read the Target’s Statement, Independent Expert’s Report, and Bidder’s Statement in full. Each investor should weigh the offer against their personal investment strategy, tax circumstances, and risk profile. Independent financial advice is recommended if there is uncertainty.”

Financial Context

Ainsworth’s recent financial results highlighted a revenue rise of AU$152.1 million in H1 2025, marking a 22% year-on-year increase. However, EBITDA fell by 63.5%, underscoring the financial pressures that may have accelerated the company’s decision to support the takeover.

With the closing date now set for 3 November 2025, Ainsworth’s shareholders face a pivotal choice that could mark the end of the supplier’s independent listing.