Bally Buys SHFL Entertainment for Big Bucks

Bloomberg reports that Bally Technologies, a leading slot manufacturer, is buying SHFL Entertainment (formerly known as Shuffle Master), for $1.3 billion.  Bally, with this acquisition, is now a top-tier gaming vendor with a full line of offerings: slots, lottery and now table games.  There are some geographic synergies as well, allowing Bally expanded market presence.

Not sure about the price, but the thinking behind the acquisition appears sound.  Other slot vendors like IGT and Aristocrat should take notice.