DoubleDown Interactive to Acquire WHOW Games
Deal News | Jul 08, 2025 | Globenewswire
DoubleDown Interactive has entered into an agreement to acquire WHOW Games GmbH, a social casino developer based in Hamburg, Germany, from Azerion Tech Holding for an initial consideration of approximately $64.7 million. The deal also includes an earn-out payment of up to $10 million contingent upon performance targets. The purchase will be funded through DoubleDown's cash reserves and is expected to close in Q3 2025. DoubleDown aims to leverage WHOW Games' expertise in the European market, aiming for growth and enhanced competitiveness particularly in Germany. The acquisition aligns with DoubleDown's strategy to expand their reach within the social casino segment in Europe.
Sectors
- Gaming
- Digital Entertainment
Geography
- Germany – WHOW Games is based in Hamburg, Germany, and the acquisition targets growth in the German market.
- South Korea – DoubleDown Interactive, the acquirer, is based in Seoul, South Korea.
- Europe – The acquisition signifies DoubleDown's strategic expansion in the European social casino market.
Industry
- Gaming – The article discusses DoubleDown Interactive, a gaming company acquiring WHOW Games, a social casino operator.
- Digital Entertainment – DoubleDown Interactive and WHOW Games are involved in digital gaming and entertainment, particularly in online social casino spaces.
Financials
- €55 million – Initial consideration for acquiring 100% ownership interest in WHOW Games.
- $64.7 million – USD equivalent of the initial acquisition price considering the exchange rate.
- €10 million – Potential earn-out payment contingent on performance targets over two years.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| DoubleDown Interactive Co., Ltd. | Buyer | Company | A leading gaming company delivering digital player experiences, acquiring WHOW Games to enhance its presence in the European market. |
| WHOW Games GmbH | Target Company | Company | A German-based developer and operator of social casino games, known for brands like MyJackpot and Lounge77. |
| Azerion Tech Holding B.V. | Selling Company | Company | A large digital advertising and entertainment media platform, selling WHOW Games to DoubleDown Interactive. |
| In Keuk Kim | Individual | People | Chief Executive Officer of DoubleDown Interactive. |
| Giovanni Valerio Valeriota | Individual | People | Chief Executive Officer of WHOW Games. |
| Eilers & Krejcik Gaming, LLC | Research Firm | Company | Provided research insights on the European social casino market. |