IZIGROUP CEO eyes international opportunities after ‘exceeding all targets’

IZIGROUP Founder and Group CEO Johann Schembri has said the company is entering the “next phase” of its strategy, with further investment in its Malta operations set to be accompanied by the pursuit of targeted opportunities internationally.

His comments came as IZI Finance plc announced its audited results for the financial year ended 30th June 2026, during which the group surpassed €1 billion in both turnover and player winnings for the first time.

“FY2026 marks another important milestone in the growth path of IZIGROUP,” Mr Schembri said.

“For the first time, we have surpassed €1 billion in both turnover and player winnings, while delivering significant growth in GGR, EBITDA, profitability and operating cash generation.”

The CEO said the results exceeded all of the group’s targets and reflected investments made across its operations.

“These results exceed all our targets and reflect the continued strength of our core businesses, the investments we have made in our people, technology, products and distribution capabilities, and the disciplined execution of our strategy,” he said.

He added that this growth had been achieved while maintaining the group’s focus on responsible gaming, integrity and governance.

With IZIGROUP having “substantially completed” what Mr Schembri described as its major investment programme across its Malta-based operations, attention is now turning towards the company's next stage of development.

“We are entering the next phase of our strategy from a solid foundation,” he said.

Locally, this will involve further product innovation, optimisation and expansion of the group’s distribution network, enhancements to its digital offering and a continued focus on operational efficiency.

At the same time, Mr Schembri said the company will “progressively” pursue targeted international opportunities with high barriers to entry, where IZIGROUP believes its experience, technology and operating model can generate sustainable long-term value.

The comments follow a year of considerable financial growth for the group.

Turnover increased by 27.4 per cent year-on-year to €1.172 billion, while player winnings rose by 28.4 per cent to €1.060 billion.

Gross Gaming Revenue increased by 18.3 per cent to €110.9 million, while EBITDA rose 29.1 per cent to €37.3 million. Operating profit climbed 63.8 per cent to €19.4 million, while profit before tax approximately doubled to €14.4 million.

Growth was principally driven by National Lottery plc, alongside continued strong performance from the group's casino and interactive gaming segments. IZIGROUP operates the National Lottery concession in Malta and Dragonara Casino, alongside its interactive gaming portfolio.

Its EBITDA margin on GGR improved to 33.7 per cent, from 30.8 per cent a year earlier.

Net cash generated from operating activities increased by approximately 40 per cent to €39.7 million. As at the end of June, cash and cash equivalents stood at €44.3 million, with the group's working capital position improving to a surplus of €24.3 million.

IZIGROUP also reported €41.8 million in contributions to Malta's economy and social causes during the year, comprising concession fees and gaming taxes paid to Government, together with contributions to the Social Causes Fund, Responsible Gaming Foundation and sponsorships. This represented 37.7 per cent of its GGR.

During the financial year, IZI Finance completed a €30 million 5.5 per cent unsecured bond issue due in 2036, which the company said further strengthened its capital and liquidity position and provided additional flexibility to support future investment and growth.