AUS
NZ
UK
CA
USA
IND
Highlights
- Laurence Escalante proposes full acquisition of Virtual Gaming Worlds
- Deal values the company at $3.2 billion
- Offer price set at $5.05 per share
Perth-based entrepreneur Laurence Escalante, founder of Virtual Gaming Worlds, is moving to take complete ownership of the company in a high-stakes proposal that values the online gambling and gaming business at an estimated $3.2 billion. The company, trading under the ticker (VGW), has long been one of Australia's standout private tech success stories, with Escalante at the helm since its inception.
Currently holding a 70% majority stake, Escalante has initiated a plan to acquire the remaining shares held by minority investors through a new special-purpose entity. The proposed acquisition price stands at $5.05 per share, adjusted for any dividends declared or paid during the period. This would bring the entire value of the deal to a level that reflects approximately three times the company’s EBITDA for the 12 months ending 31 December 2024.
Escalante’s latest move comes after reported tensions with minority shareholders, who have expressed concern over reduced transparency and governance. In May, frustrations boiled over in a group chat, where Escalante reacted strongly to criticism about the company's disclosure standards.
The acquisition will require shareholder approval through a vote, with Escalante and his related entities excluded from participating in the decision-making process. If the vote passes, it would consolidate Escalante’s control over (VGW) and mark a pivotal moment in the company’s evolution.
Virtual Gaming Worlds has experienced robust growth in recent years, which contributed to Escalante’s net worth reaching $4.5 billion, as per the 2025 Australian Financial Review Rich List — up 20% year-on-year. The company’s digital gaming products have seen substantial traction, particularly in international markets, underpinning its impressive revenue momentum.
This development places (VGW) in sharp focus for investors looking at the broader Australian equity landscape, especially those following the ASX300 index. While (VGW) is not currently listed on the ASX, this kind of activity may draw attention to similar gaming and tech names that are part of the ASX300, which features a range of high-growth and income-generating businesses.
Investors focused on ASX dividend stocks might also take an interest in how corporate governance and buyout activities influence valuations, shareholder returns, and market sentiment across comparable sectors.
Escalante’s proposal underscores the growing trend of founders and major shareholders seeking to tighten control over high-performing private companies. As this move progresses toward a shareholder vote, all eyes will be on the implications it may carry for the gaming sector and investor confidence in founder-led firms.
