DigiPlus Interactive Corp. is venturing into offline entertainment by acquiring a controlling economic stake in Hong Kong-listed International Entertainment Corp. (IEC) through convertible notes to connect its digital platforms with hospitality and gaming venue.
The company said Tuesday that upon conversion of the HK$1.6 billion, approximately P12 billion, Notes, it will hold roughly 53.89 percent of IEC’s issued capital stock, enhancing brand activation, player engagement, and customer experience across both online and offline touchpoints.
“Through this transaction, we are expanding our omnipresent ecosystem—bridging digital innovation with real-world experiences—to create a new era of entertainment that is engaging, responsible, and globally competitive,” DigiPlus Chairman Eusebio Tanco said.
The convertible notes will be subscribed in two tranches, with the first tranche of HK$800 million closing upon satisfaction of customary conditions and the second following within three months under mutually agreed terms.
The Notes carry a 3 percent annual interest rate and can be converted or redeemed at 108 percent after five years.
The transaction still requires approval from IEC shareholders at an Extraordinary General Meeting, as well as clearances from the Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong, the HKEx, and the Philippine Competition Commission.
IEC owns New Coast Hotel Manila, a five-star hotel and casino complex licensed by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp.
Formerly New World Hotel Manila, the property is under renovation, with the casino set to reopen in January 2026 and the hotel by the third quarter. The complex features 203 guest rooms, 96 gaming tables, and 495 slot machines.
DigiPlus is the digital entertainment provider behind BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone.