AI Summary
Sign in to listen

Fortuna expands into Montenegro with majority stake in Lob

The agreement represents a significant expansion for the Czech-based operator into Southeast Europe and has been described as one of Montenegro's largest foreign direct investments in recent years.

3 min read
FEG acquires Lob
Key Points
Fortuna Entertainment Group has acquired 51% of Lob, with an option to increase the stake over time
Lob generated €30m in 2024 revenue, operating primarily online (77%) with 300+ employees and approximately 100 retail locations across Montenegro
The acquisition forms part of FEG's expansion strategy, with planned investments in technology modernisation and AI-powered platform enhancements

Fortuna Entertainment Group (FEG) has entered the Montenegrin market with the acquisition of a 51% stake in Lob, Montenegro's second-largest sports betting and gaming operator.

The deal includes an option for Fortuna to increase its stake over time and marks one of the largest recent foreign direct investments in the country's entertainment sector.

Founded more than 25 years ago and headquartered in Podgorica, Lob operates both retail and digital channels, with 77% of its business conducted online.

The company generated €30m ($34.7m) in revenue in 2024 and employs over 300 people across a network of around 100 outlets.

Its operations focus primarily on sports betting, which accounts for 65% of its business, while gaming makes up the remaining 35%.

Commenting on the acquisition, Dieter John, Group CEO of FEG, stated: "Montenegro is a market with great potential and a clear EU direction. We will significantly invest into Lob, drive its growth and establish best in class capabilities and best-practices.

"Through our partnership with Lob, our goal is to contribute to the modernisation of the entertainment sector, enhance transparency and develop innovative solutions that improve user experience."

Lob's Chairman of the Board, Goran Knežević, added: "The partnership opens a new chapter for our company. Cooperation with an international investor who shares our values of professionalism and responsible business will enable further development and growth within the sports entertainment sector."

The acquisition aligns with FEG's broader regional expansion strategy, following leadership restructuring earlier this year and ongoing investment in AI-driven personalisation, analytics and responsible gaming practices.

Good to know

FEG is currently in the final stages of obtaining international G4 certification, which validates responsible business practices and player protection standards.

Reaction Board

Set Global Gaming Insider to be your preferred search result

News Analysis

View All
Ballys Analysis

Boom or bust: Which of Bally’s new US developments holds the most potential?

As the operator prepares to launch new casino-resorts in Las Vegas, Chicago and New York, recent concerns regarding Bally’s financials may cast doubt on each’s long-term potential. But which one offers the most?

7 min read • • By Kirk Geller
Fedbet analysis

Romania under pressure: Institutional stability should be a priority – Fedbet President

Global Gaming Insider speaks to Fedbet President Alexandru Domșa about Romania’s changing gambling landscape.

4 min read • • By Marieta Lezaic
Makeberry Affiliates Editorial

Makeberry Affiliates: Driving growth through stability

Oleksandr Kulyk, VP of Makeberry Partnerships, speaks to Global Gaming Insider about Makeberry Affiliates’ expanding portfolio, partner expectations and plans for SBC Summit and SiGMA Central Europe.

4 min read • • By Marieta Lezaic

In The News

View All
Hard Rock Tampa donations
[STANDARD IMPORTANCE]

Hard Rock Tampa donates $100,000 to local organizations for Hispanic Heritage Month

Each of the 10 local community organizations received $10,000 donations from the operator, as the month-long initiative looks to celebrate contributions of Hispanic and LatAm communities.

· Financial + 4