Entain launches Bectha in NZ to tackle offshore operations

Entain has announced the launch of Bectha – a new betting platform for the New Zealand market.

The new brand, which is aimed at younger demographics in the region, has been introduced as a ‘direct response’ to the increasing threat of offshore betting operators. 

Entain Australia and New Zealand Managing Director – New Zealand, Cameron Rodger, said: “In the three months to the end of June 2024, New Zealanders’ spending with offshore betting operators grew by 30%, continuing a trend over the last three or more years. 

“Offshore spending is now estimated to be over $180m per annum and this is led by the growth in offshore spending doubling in the 18-29-year-old age band in the last five years. 

“Their betting activity provides little to no benefit for the New Zealand racing and sports industries, and these offshore operators are under no obligation to provide the same level of harm minimisation support and account management tools that Betcha will make available for Kiwis.” 

Although run by Tab and Entain, Betcha won’t provide bettors with tote betting on racing. Unlike Tab, only fixed odds and will be run as two separate platforms, with current Tab customers needing to register a new account in order to use the Betcha platform. 

“This new brand will emphasise the social and competitive value of sports and racing and introduce New Zealanders to the next generation of betting,” added Entain Chief Marketing Officer, Mel Kenneday.

“This means we’ll be focusing on some of those events and sports that the newer generation have really shown interest in, like football, basketball and UFC, with Betcha confirmed as New Zealand’s official wagering partner for UFC.” 

This week, Entain also announced that it has upgraded its full-year 2024 guidance due to stronger-than-expected Q2 results, with revised regulatory timings helping the execution of key upgrades.

Posting its H1 trading statement, the FTSE100 gambling group underscored its ‘improved operational execution’ ahead of Gavin Isaacs beginning his tenure as new the CEO on 2 September 2024.