Novomatic Extends Ainsworth Takeover Bid Deadline to Jan 2026

Novomatic AG confirmed in a filing to the Australian Securities Exchange that the revised closing date replaces all previous references to 3 December 2025. The decision, approved by the company’s board, ensures that the AUD1.00 per-share unconditional offer remains available to all eligible Ainsworth shareholders for an extended period. The extension was communicated to regulators, Ainsworth Game Technology, and shareholders in accordance with section 650D(1) of the Corporations Act.

Ainsworth’s independent board committee continues to unanimously recommend acceptance, citing the Independent Expert’s conclusion that the offer is fair and reasonable in the absence of a superior proposal. The valuation places Ainsworth at approximately AUD336.8 million on a fully diluted basis. This bid, first launched in August, has already been extended multiple times as Novomatic works to increase its ownership beyond the current 61.6%.

Complicating the process is a proportional takeover proposal submitted by Kjerulf Ainsworth, offering AUD1.30 per share for 2.9% of each shareholder’s holdings. While the price is higher, the company has clarified that the proposal does not constitute a superior offer and that Novomatic does not intend to participate. The independent committee has also advised that required documentation for assessment remains incomplete.

Leadership changes and regulatory considerations are influencing dynamics. Former COO Ryan Comstock stepped in as acting CEO in October following Harald Neumann’s resignation after licensing issues in Nevada. Meanwhile, compliance checks for Kjerulf Ainsworth continue across nearly 30 jurisdictions.

As ownership thresholds loom 75% for delisting and over 90% for compulsory acquisition the extended deadline gives shareholders additional time to evaluate their stance in one of the sector’s most closely watched takeovers.