Matchbook has completed the acquisition of Betdaq, the peer-to-peer betting exchange founded by Dermot Desmond in 2000. The platform, run by EPS Ltd, will keep operating until 21 October 2026, with client withdrawals open until 4 November. User funds are protected under the regulatory requirements of both operators.
The deal merges the liquidity of the two exchanges into a single pool. Ronan McDonagh, CEO of Matchbook, says clients get tighter spreads, better execution and keener pricing. Matchbook has been in exchange betting for more than twenty years; it launched easyBet with easyGroup and moved into prediction markets through ADI PredictStreet, tied to the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The purchase lands as peer-to-peer betting draws a wider audience, particularly in the US, where exchanges and prediction markets are bringing new customers to market-based pricing instead of margin-based. McDonagh said the priority is a smooth transition for Betdaq clients and deeper liquidity in the combined pool. 'Everything we do, including this deal, is aimed at making the exchange the first choice,' he said.
