Merkur Targets U.S. Growth as Nevada Opens Its Doors Again

Nevada Gaming Commission, allowing it to manufacture and distribute its products within the state. With this approval, Merkur Gaming US reclaims its spot in one of the most competitive gambling markets in the world.

This return is more than a symbolic gesture. It’s part of a carefully calculated push to reinforce Merkur’s global footprint, especially as challenges at home push the company to look outward. It marks the first time since the early 2000s that Merkur has held a Nevada license, which it originally obtained in 1998 before stepping away from the U.S. market.

Michael Gauselmann, Chairman of Merkur’s Supervisory Board, emphasized the significance of the moment, saying, “With approval from Nevada, this moment serves to highlight and underscore the Merkur Group’s legally compliant and forward-looking approach in all areas without exception.” In a sign of confidence, Nevada regulators told the company, “Welcome back to the industry.”

Gaming Arts Acquisition Adds Muscle to U.S. Strategy

Alongside its licensing win, Merkur also gained regulatory approval to acquire Gaming Arts LLC, a Las Vegas-based company known for its extensive reach and innovation in gaming technology. The acquisition is expected to close in early Q3 2025 and will serve as a cornerstone of Merkur’s reentry strategy.

Gaming Arts is no stranger to the global market—it holds licenses in over 155 jurisdictions. The two companies have maintained a longstanding partnership, and this deal now brings that relationship to a new level. Merkur credits this partnership with smoothing the path to regulatory approval.

Lars Felderhoff, Chairman of Merkur’s Management Board, praised the cooperation: “The close and constructive partnership with Gaming Arts LLC has significantly contributed over the past months to successfully establishing all necessary prerequisites for the licensing as well as the acquisition. We are deeply grateful for the excellent cooperation.”

Gaming Arts founder David Colvin echoed the sentiment: “We congratulate Merkur for achieving this outstanding milestone and we welcome them to the state of Nevada.”

Tightening Rules at Home Prompt Global Pivot

While the Nevada approval marks a fresh start in the U.S., Merkur’s decision to reenter the American market stems from evolving conditions in . Felderhoff acknowledged that operating in the company’s home country has become more complex. “Business conditions in our home market, , have become increasingly challenging due to tightening regulatory frameworks,” he said.

Despite those hurdles, Merkur remains confident in ’s long-term prospects but is accelerating its international expansion. The company already operates in over 90 countries and has seen consistent growth across Europe and South America.

“Our re-entry into the North American casino market will significantly accelerate the international growth of the Merkur Group and place it on an even more solid footing,” Felderhoff added.

Merkur’s move follows a broader industry trend, as other European firms—including sportsbook tech provider Kambi —continue to build a presence in Nevada, reinforcing the state’s appeal as a launchpad for global operators.

Source:

“Merkur Secures Nevada License, to Acquire Gaming Arts in Q3 2025”, news.worldcasinodirectory.com, May 23, 2025