Sun International Sees H1 Revenue Growth as SunBet Powers Ahead in South Africa

Sun International delivered a strong set of interim results for the six months ended 30 June 2026, with group income rising 7.4% to R6.58 billion.

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The performance was driven by SunBet, its online gaming arm, which surged 35.5% to R1.18 billion, well ahead of the broader South African online market growth of about 19%. Land‑based casinos also returned to growth for the first time in three years, while hospitality posted steady gains.

Chief Executive Ulrik Bengtsson said, “In the first half of 2026 (H1), we delivered results at the upper end of our expectations with a 7.4% revenue growth. We are very encouraged by the trajectory we are on, particularly in our Land‑based casino business reflecting strong execution and sound investment decisions.”

SunBet leads digital growth

SunBet continued to act as the group’s growth driver, recording double‑digit increases in both active player days and first‑time depositors.

Income climbed by more than a third, supported by new product launches and the rollout of a redesigned user interface in South Africa and Botswana. Adjusted EBITDA from SunBet rose 42.1%, contributing nearly a quarter of group earnings.

The company highlighted that growth was not only coming from slots and casino games but also from its expanding sportsbook offering.

Meanwhile, land‑based casinos generated R3.4 billion in income, up 1.5% year‑on‑year, marking their first return to growth in three years. Gross Gaming Revenue rose 4.4%, with market share expanding by 2.3 percentage points to 49%. 

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Investments in new slot machines, stadium games, and table game execution helped drive performance. Flagship venues such as Sunbet Arena and Grand Arena continued to attract visitors. 

Sun Slots see slight decline as hospitality grows

Hospitality delivered solid growth, with revenue up 7.7% to R1.3 billion despite global travel disruptions. Domestic demand, conferencing, and enhanced food and beverage offerings supported the segment, while Sun City posted strong gains.

Gross profit rose nearly 10%, aided by disciplined yield management and ongoing refurbishment projects.

Sun Slots, the limited payout machine division, reported a slight decline in income to R698 million, impacted by protests and weaker execution in the Western Cape, with Adjusted EBITDA falling 8.1%.

Looking ahead, Sun International plans to continue building on its five‑year value creation plan, focusing on operational efficiency, digital expansion, and responsible gambling.

Bengtsson said the group enters the second half of 2026 with “stronger capabilities, improved execution momentum and a clear pathway to value creation.” Early trading in H2 has already exceeded guidance, with revenue growth above the 6% to 8% range. The company remains committed to its strategy of becoming a digitally led, market‑leading gaming operator.

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