Core Viewpoint - Flutter Entertainment has announced the extension of its strategic partnership with Boyd Gaming Corporation to 2038 and the acquisition of Boyd's 5% stake in FanDuel for approximately $1.755 billion, increasing Flutter's ownership in FanDuel to 100% at an implied valuation of around $31 billion [1][2][3]. Group 1: Strategic Partnership and Acquisition - The acquisition involves a payment of approximately $1.755 billion, which includes $1.55 billion for the stake in FanDuel and $205 million for revised commercial terms [2][12]. - The strategic partnership extension with Boyd will lead to significantly reduced market access costs, expected to save Flutter approximately $65 million annually starting July 1, 2025 [2][6][12]. Group 2: Market Position and Financial Impact - FanDuel holds a 43% market share in sports betting and 27% in iGaming in the US, making it the clear market leader [6][12]. - The transaction is anticipated to enhance Flutter's long-term profitability profile and mitigate potential tax increases, with the expected annual savings contributing to a more favorable adjusted EBITDA margin [6][12]. Group 3: Financial Arrangements - Flutter has entered into a bridge credit agreement for a senior secured first lien term loan of $1.75 billion to finance the acquisition [5][7]. - The leverage ratio is expected to increase initially but is projected to decrease due to visible profitable growth opportunities, with a commitment to maintain a medium-term leverage ratio of 2.0-2.5x [3][6].