Merkur Group has acquired US online slots provider White Hat Studios as the German gaming company continues expanding across regulated American markets.
Founded in 2021, White Hat Studios has quickly built a presence in US iGaming, becoming the first provider to launch online slots in all seven states where online casino gaming is regulated. Its portfolio includes the “House of Brands” collection, the 7s Fire Blitz series and the Jackpot Royale progressive jackpot network.
The acquisition gives Merkur access to an established online gaming catalogue and supports its plans to develop products across digital and land-based channels.
Andy Whitworth, President of White Hat Studios, said: “Joining Merkur Group is an exciting moment for everyone associated with White Hat Studios and, fundamentally, it is the best possible move to realise our ambitions for future growth and product innovation. Working alongside the hugely experienced Merkur team will open new possibilities for us across iGaming and enhance our ability to develop a world-class omni-channel proposition that will benefit both operators and players.”
Deal Expands Merkur’s US Slot Offering
White Hat Studios offers more than 150 games across regulated US markets, including branded titles based on The Goonies, Peaky Blinders, Ted, Flintstones and Deal or No Deal. The company releases at least six new games each month and operates a progressive jackpot network.
Merkur said the deal follows its previous acquisition of Gaming Arts, a Nevada-based gaming machine and content supplier, strengthening its ability to support online and omni-channel operations.
Lars Felderhoff, Chairman of Merkur Management Board, said: “White Hat Studios has delivered impressive growth since its launch. We look forward to working with the team to continue the US success story and, in turn, Merkur’s expansion in regulated iGaming.”
Michael Gauselmann, Chairman of the Merkur Supervisory Board, added: “Having made early inroads into the online space in Europe via our Blueprint acquisition in 2012, I am delighted by this latest development and am confident that White Hat Studios will be a great addition to our group.”
Regulatory Review Pending Following Acquisition
The purchase does not include White Hat Studios’ B2B platform and white-label operations, which will remain under their existing ownership. The transition of the studio into Merkur Group remains subject to regulatory approvals, which are required for gaming industry acquisitions in the United States.
Merkur said the acquisition aligns with its wider expansion strategy across European and American markets. The company recently reopened Victoria Gate Casino in Leeds after acquiring the venue and completing a temporary closure.
The White Hat Studios transaction builds on Merkur’s efforts to combine online gaming expertise with land-based operations. The group said the partnership will support further product development and strengthen its ability to provide solutions for operators seeking connected gaming offerings.
Whitworth said the agreement creates additional opportunities for White Hat Studios to work with Merkur’s experienced team and continue developing slot products for regulated markets.
With White Hat Studios joining the group, Merkur gains a supplier that has built a significant position in US iGaming within a short period, while the acquisition supports the company’s broader objective of expanding its regulated gaming operations.
Source:
“Merkur Group Acquires White Hat Studios to Expand U.S. Slots”, news.worldcasinodirectory.com, Jul 15, 2026
The post Merkur Group Expands US iGaming Reach With White Hat Deal first appeared on RealMoneyAction.com.