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The Express Gazette
Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Caesars Shareholders Approve Merger with Fertitta Gaming

The deal, valued at approximately $17.6 billion, is set to create one of the largest gaming empires upon completion.

Business & Markets 3 hours ago
Caesars Shareholders Approve Merger with Fertitta Gaming

Shareholders of Caesars Entertainment have approved a multibillion-dollar merger with Fertitta Gaming, a move that will create one of the largest gaming empires upon its completion. The vote took place in Reno, Nevada.

Over 133 million votes were cast in favor of the merger, with approximately 4 million votes against, according to a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The deal was initially announced in May, with Fertitta agreeing to pay $5.7 billion and assume nearly $12 billion in debt from Caesars, bringing the total value of the transaction to about $17.6 billion.

Caesars Entertainment is known for its significant presence on the Las Vegas Strip, operating properties such as Caesars Palace, the Flamingo, and Harrah's, in addition to casino resorts across the United States. Fertitta Gaming's holdings include the Golden Nugget in Las Vegas and restaurant chains like Rainforest Cafe and Morton's.

Billionaire Tilman Fertitta, the owner of Fertitta Gaming, is also a major shareholder in Wynn Resorts and the sports betting company DraftKings. Fertitta stepped back from his leadership roles in his company following his confirmation in April 2025 as the U.S. ambassador to Italy and San Marino.

Both Caesars and Fertitta must still navigate the federal antitrust review process. If the merger is approved, Caesars will transition to a privately-held company, and its shareholders will receive $31 in cash for each share they own.


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