Caesars Entertainment stock surges! Rumored acquisition talks with billionaire Fertitta at a 31% premium

According to Wallstreet News, citing sources familiar with the matter, American restaurant and hotel magnate and billionaire Tilman Fertitta has entered exclusive negotiations to acquire Caesars Entertainment (CZR.US) for approximately $7 billion. Boosted by this news, Caesars Entertainment closed up nearly 12% in U.S. trading on Wednesday.

Reports indicate that Fertitta’s company is discussing acquiring this casino and hotel operator at around $34 per share, representing a 31% premium over Caesars’ closing price on Tuesday, and exceeding the previous all-cash buyout offer of $33 per share proposed by Icahn Enterprises (IEP.US). However, the reports also add that the deal is not close to being announced, and talks may still fall through.

Fertitta owns the Golden Nugget casino chain as well as Landry’s restaurant group, and is also the owner of the NBA team Houston Rockets. Caesars Entertainment operates about 50 U.S.-based gaming properties in Las Vegas and other regional markets. In addition, the company manages trustee properties and digital assets. Brands under Caesars include Caesars, Harrah’s, Tropicana, Bally’s, Isle, and Flamingo. The company also owns the U.S. operations of the digital sports betting platform William Hill (having sold its international business in 2022).