On September 8, 2025, Webis Holdings, a key player in licensed international pool wagering, announced a strategic partnership with XST Capital Group, a leading investment bank in the digital gaming sector. This collaboration marks a significant step for both entities as they aim to explore and capitalize on strategic opportunities within the rapidly evolving digital gaming landscape.
Webis Holdings and XST have agreed to this partnership with the immediate objective of exploring mergers, acquisitions, and strategic opportunities that will enhance shareholder value. Importantly, Webis has made clear that the agreement excludes its existing horse racing license at Cal Expo in Sacramento, California, ensuring the focus remains solely on new avenues of growth.
Ed Comins, the managing director of Webis, shared his excitement about the collaboration, underscoring that the partnership with XST comes at a pivotal time as Webis moves into the last quarter of 2025. For Webis, this partnership is not just a business transaction but a strategic initiative that could redefine its future in the digital wagering space. Comins reassured stakeholders that they would be kept informed about any major developments arising from this collaboration.
Joel H. Simkins, the CEO of XST Capital Group, also expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. He highlighted Webis’s strengths, including its robust regulatory licenses, trusted brand, and dedicated customer base, which he believes will be instrumental in seizing opportunities presented by the digital gaming market’s transformation. XST is committed to aiding the Webis Board in exploring strategic options that will help realize the company’s full potential.
The strategic alliance is set to particularly benefit Webis’s US operations through its subsidiary, WatchandWager.com LLC. Headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area and operating out of Lexington, Kentucky, WatchandWager is poised to leverage this partnership to enhance its service offerings. The company specializes in pari-mutuel pool betting and wagering services across the United States via various distribution channels.
WatchandWager is well-positioned in the US market, holding a US pari-mutuel license for its Advance Deposit Wagering (ADW) operations. It is uniquely authorized by both the North Dakota and California Horse Racing Boards, in addition to being licensed in Kentucky, New York, and several other critical states. This extensive licensing framework offers a solid foundation for growth under the new strategic partnership.
Focusing on horse and greyhound racing, WatchandWager maintains partnerships with several esteemed racetrack entities, including Churchill Downs, the New York Racing Association (NYRA), and Monarch Content Management. These alliances afford WatchandWager privileged access to the prestigious Triple Crown series, most notably the Kentucky Derby, as well as other premier racing events across the country. Such access not only positions Webis to benefit from increased visibility but also offers a competitive edge in the digital wagering market.
From a market perspective, this partnership comes at a time when the digital gaming industry is seeing rapid transformations driven by technological advancements and shifting consumer preferences. The collaboration between Webis and XST could serve as a catalyst for both companies to navigate these changes effectively. Simkins noted that the digital wagering environment is ripe with possibilities, and with XST’s expertise, Webis is well-placed to explore and exploit these opportunities.
However, there are potential challenges that the partnership must navigate. The digital gaming sector, characterized by regulatory variability across jurisdictions, could pose challenges in terms of compliance and operational consistency. Additionally, the competitive nature of the market necessitates continuous innovation and strategic agility to maintain and grow market share.
While the alliance holds promise, it also invites scrutiny from stakeholders who may be cautious about the inherent risks involved in strategic mergers and acquisitions. The success of this partnership will depend on careful execution and transparent communication with all stakeholders involved.
Looking ahead, Webis and XST’s joint efforts might not only reshape their respective business landscapes but could also set a precedent for similar collaborations in the industry. The coming months will be crucial as both companies begin to outline and implement their strategic roadmap. Stakeholders will be watching closely, eager to see how this partnership unfolds and what new opportunities it will unlock for both Webis and XST in the digital gaming domain.
Garry Sputnim is a seasoned journalist and storyteller with over a decade of experience in the trenches of global news. With a keen eye for uncovering stories that resonate, Alex has reported from over 30 countries, bringing light to untold narratives and the human faces behind the headlines. Specializing in investigative journalism, Garry has a knack for technology and social justice issues, weaving compelling narratives that bridge tech and humanity. Outside the newsroom, Garry is an avid rock climber and podcast host, exploring stories of resilience and innovation.
