Winking Studios, a major player in game art outsourcing, plans to list on London’s AIM market.
- Already listed in Singapore, the company seeks to tap into UK tech investments for growth.
- CEO Johnny Jan cites London’s understanding of the gaming sector as a key factor.
- The studios plan to use cash reserves and AIM capital to expand in Europe and North America.
- This move follows Keywords Studios’ delisting and changes in London’s AIM companies.
Winking Studios, a significant name in the game art outsourcing domain, has announced its intention to enter the London Stock Exchange’s AIM market. This strategic move aims at enhancing its presence in Western economies. The company, already listed on Singapore’s Catalist board, regards the dual listing as a significant opportunity to tap into the extensive technological investment resources available in the UK, bolstering its expansion in the rapidly growing industry.
Founded in 2004 by CEO Johnny Jan, Winking Studios has established itself as a leading entity, ranking third in Asia and fourth worldwide in terms of revenue. With nine offices spanning Asia and collaborations with 22 of the top 25 global game developers, including industry giants like Ubisoft, EA, Activision, and Tencent, the studio has contributed to high-profile franchises such as FIFA, Call of Duty, and Assassin’s Creed.
Jan expressed that London was a logical choice for this strategic venture, highlighting the city’s comprehensive understanding of the global gaming sector and its reputation for supporting growth-oriented international companies. Jan stated, “We believe Winking Studios has a significant opportunity to expand its presence globally, and dual listing on AIM will further support our global ambitions and position us to accelerate growth.”
The firm plans to leverage its existing cash reserves, which exceed $30 million, alongside capital raised from the AIM listing to enhance its presence in Europe and North America. This includes plans to establish a UK regional hub and pursue acquisitions of smaller studios in these regions. Moreover, Winking Studios is keen on advancing its AI capabilities, ensuring competitiveness in the ever-evolving gaming industry.
This announcement coincides with recent market shifts, including the delisting of British video game developer Keywords Studios following a substantial take-private offer. Such developments have seen the number of AIM-listed companies dip below 700 for the first time since 2001. Notably, recent government confirmation of partial retention of an inheritance tax break led to the largest single-day increase in stocks in four years.
Winking Studios’ strategic move to list on AIM reflects its ambition to solidify its global footprint and leverage growth opportunities in Western markets.
