Paf, the renowned Nordic gaming operator, has unveiled its financial results for 2023, marking a year of significant growth and achievement. The company reported a 7% increase in revenue year-on-year, reaching an impressive €177.1 million ($191.7 million). This surge in revenue contributed to a record-breaking profit of €55.1 million, up from €44.8 million in the previous year.

Record Performance and Positive Impact

2023 stands out as the most successful year in Paf’s 57-year history. Despite the positive financial results, Paf has noted impending challenges, particularly with the rise in gaming taxes across several countries in 2024. In Sweden, for instance, the gambling tax will increase from 18% to 22%, presenting new operational conditions for the company.

Contribution to Society

Reflecting on its strong performance, Paf announced an annual distribution of €31.4 million from Paf funds, aimed at supporting societal initiatives, including contributions to various third-sector organizations. This commitment underscores Paf’s dedication to making a positive impact beyond the gaming industry.

Customer Success and Responsible Gaming

Paf’s customer segments also showed promising trends. The percentage of customers who lost more than €30,000 in a year remained at 0%, highlighting Paf’s ongoing commitment to responsible gaming. Furthermore, 27.02% of players ended the year in profit, up from 21.66% in 2022, indicating improved customer satisfaction and engagement.

Leadership Changes

In addition to financial results, Paf announced a change in its board composition. Daniela Forsgård will join the board, replacing Birgitta Eriksson. This transition is part of Paf’s strategy to bring fresh perspectives and expertise to its leadership team.

CEO’s Perspective

Paf CEO Christer Fahlstedt expressed pride in the company’s achievements, stating, “We can be happy and proud of the past year. We have gained a larger customer base, and the number of active customers has increased by 27%, which explains some of it. We are also well aware that the temporarily low gaming taxes in Finland have helped the result. The trend of increasing gaming taxes will continue, and we expect to see more much-needed demands for increased responsible gaming measures. The changes will result in reduced profitability, and many operators will find it more difficult. But Paf is well prepared for the times ahead.”

Chairman’s Remarks

Jan-Mikael von Schantz, Chairman of the Paf Board, echoed these sentiments, saying, “It’s undeniably great that Paf is achieving a fantastic result, allowing us to distribute a total of €31.4 million in the form of Paf funds. The employees have done a phenomenal job over the past year, and the Board would like to thank all Paf employees who have made this possible.”

Looking Forward

As Paf navigates the evolving landscape of the gaming industry with increasing regulatory demands and tax changes, the company remains optimistic and resilient. With a strategic focus on responsible gaming and community support, Paf is well-positioned to continue its growth trajectory while maintaining its commitment to societal contributions and customer well-being.

FAQs: Paf’s 2023 Financial Results and Future Outlook

1. What were Paf’s financial results for 2023?

Paf reported a 7% increase in revenue, reaching €177.1 million ($191.7 million), and a record profit of €55.1 million, up from €44.8 million in 2022.

2. How significant was 2023 for Paf?

2023 was Paf’s most successful year in its 57-year history, achieving record financial results.

3. What challenges does Paf anticipate in 2024?

Paf expects increased gaming taxes in several countries, including a rise from 18% to 22% in Sweden, which will create different operational conditions.

4. How much will Paf distribute from its funds in 2024?

Paf will distribute €31.4 million from its funds to support societal initiatives and third-sector organizations.

5. How did Paf perform in terms of responsible gaming in 2023?

Paf maintained a 0% rate of customers losing more than €30,000 in a year, and 27.02% of players ended the year in profit, up from 21.66% in 2022.

6. Who are the new and outgoing members of Paf’s board?

Daniela Forsgård will join the board, replacing Birgitta Eriksson.

7. What did Paf CEO Christer Fahlstedt say about the company’s 2023 performance?

Christer Fahlstedt expressed pride in the company’s achievements, noting a 27% increase in the customer base and acknowledging the impact of temporarily low gaming taxes in Finland. He also emphasized Paf’s preparedness for upcoming challenges due to increasing gaming taxes.

8. What were the comments from Jan-Mikael von Schantz, Chairman of the Paf Board?

Jan-Mikael von Schantz praised the company’s results and expressed gratitude towards the employees for their efforts, highlighting the €31.4 million distribution in Paf funds.

9. What is Paf’s strategy for the future?

Paf plans to continue focusing on responsible gaming and community support while preparing for the impact of increasing gaming taxes and regulatory demands.