This article delves into the net worth and biography of Eric Persson, a prominent Swedish entrepreneur and businessman. Eric Persson has earned widespread recognition as the CEO and co-founder of NetEnt, a leading provider of innovative online gambling solutions.
With over two decades of extensive experience in the gaming industry, Persson has established himself as a key figure in the online gambling sector. His leadership and expertise have played a pivotal role in shaping NetEnt into a major force in the digital gaming landscape, offering cutting-edge solutions to players and operators worldwide. This post explores his professional journey, accomplishments, and financial success.
Table of Contents
Biography
Eric Persson, also known as Eric Hans Persson, is widely recognized as one of the most prominent high-stakes cash game players in the world of poker. His fearless playing style and notable presence at poker tables have earned him a distinguished reputation among enthusiasts of the game.
In addition to his poker fame, Eric Persson is the CEO and owner of Maverick Gaming, a leading company in the casino and gambling industry. Under his leadership, Maverick Gaming has grown into a prominent enterprise, with a focus on providing exceptional gaming experiences. Beyond his endeavors in the gambling world, Persson is also a successful entrepreneur with ownership of over 100 multi-brand restaurants, showcasing his diverse business portfolio and knack for leadership in multiple industries.
Early Life
Eric Hans Persson, born in 1975, grew up near the Shoalwater settlement in Hoquiam, Washington. Currently 48 years old, Persson has built a remarkable career as a businessman and poker player, gaining widespread recognition in both fields. His upbringing in Washington played a foundational role in shaping his journey to becoming one of the most notable figures in the gambling and entertainment industries.
Family
Eric Hans Persson is the son of Fridolph Hilman Persson, though details about his mother, siblings, or other relatives remain undisclosed. His family lineage traces back to his grandfather, Hilman J. Persson, an Ashkenazi Jewish Swedish immigrant who arrived in the United States during the late 1800s. Hilman married Eliza J. Armstrong, a prominent pioneer from Westport, further enriching the family’s historical connections to early European settlers in the region.
While Eric’s heritage includes Ashkenazi Jewish roots and ties to European pioneer families, there are no known Native American connections in his ancestry. His unique family background has undoubtedly contributed to the multifaceted identity that defines him today.
Education
Eric Hans Persson began his educational journey at a local school before advancing to the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree with a focus on Sociology, Criminal Justice, and Psychology. During his time at UNLV, from 1992 to 1998, he also pursued studies in Communications, showcasing his commitment to a multidisciplinary education.
For two years, Eric was a member of the Shoalwater Bay Tribe, which likely played a role in shaping his understanding of community and leadership. Following his undergraduate studies, he furthered his education by attending Georgetown University Law Center, where he earned his Juris Doctorate between 1998 and 2001. This solid academic foundation has been instrumental in his success as a businessman and entrepreneur.
Personal Life
Eric Hans Persson married his wife, Ann, in 2007, and the couple has been together ever since. Their enduring partnership reflects the strong bond they share. The entire family resides in Las Vegas, Nevada, United States, where Eric manages his business ventures and pursues his passion for poker. Their life in Las Vegas places them at the heart of one of the world’s most vibrant hubs for gaming and entertainment.
Eric Persson Son
Eric Hans Persson and his wife, Ann, are proud parents to four children, ranging in age from 2 to 15 years old. Among their children are their daughter, Anjelique, and their eldest son, Maverick. Eric’s deep connection to his family is evident in the fact that he named his gaming company, Maverick Gaming, after his son, highlighting the personal significance behind his entrepreneurial ventures. The family continues to live and thrive in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Career
Eric Hans Persson began his career in the gaming industry during the 1990s, working as a programmer for a company specializing in slot machine development. His early experience provided him with a solid foundation in the gaming world, paving the way for future success.
In 1996, Eric co-founded NetEnt alongside other industry veterans, establishing the company as a pioneer in online gaming solutions. Under his leadership, NetEnt quickly gained a reputation for innovation, offering cutting-edge technology and creative gaming content that set new standards in the industry.
NetEnt achieved a significant milestone in 2009 when it became publicly listed on the Stockholm Stock Exchange, marking its rise as a major player in the global gaming market. Continuing its growth trajectory, the company entered the U.S. market in 2015, further solidifying its international presence.
In 2019, NetEnt was acquired by Evolution Gaming, a leader in live casino solutions, for a staggering sum of over $2 billion. This acquisition marked a new chapter for NetEnt while underscoring its value and influence in the gaming industry. Eric Persson’s contributions were instrumental in shaping NetEnt into a globally recognized leader in the field.
Eric Persson Poker Net Worth
Eric Hans Persson began playing poker professionally at the age of 18 while attending the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). His love for the game persisted even after he graduated from Georgetown University Law Center, where he continued honing his poker skills. With over 30,000 hours spent at the poker table, Eric has enjoyed high-stakes, big-money games for more than three decades, cementing his place as one of poker’s most dedicated players.
Eric’s professional career began after law school when he worked with Michael Gaughan, the founder of Coast Casinos. From 2001 to 2003, he served as the Director of Table Games at Prairie Band Casino & Resort. He then advanced to Senior Vice President and Assistant General Manager at Wheeling Island Casino from 2003 to 2005. In 2005, he became President of Tioga Downs, overseeing the casino’s operations until 2006.
Eric’s career reached new heights when he joined Las Vegas Sands Corp. in 2010 as Corporate Senior Vice President for Slot Marketing & Operations, a role he held for seven years. In early 2017, he transitioned to Aruze Gaming as General Manager and, within months, was promoted to President and COO. During this period, Eric also embarked on his entrepreneurial journey by founding Maverick Gaming, which has grown into a significant player in the casino and gambling industry.
Eric’s passion for poker has remained a defining aspect of his life. In February 2023, he played a historic $1.9 million pot against Patrik Antonius on PokerGo, demonstrating his competitive spirit and love for high-stakes poker. This combination of business acumen and poker prowess has solidified Eric Persson’s reputation as a prominent figure in both the gaming and gambling worlds.
Eric Persson Bio-Data
| Real Name/Full Name | Eric Persson |
| Nick Name | Eric |
| Gender | Male |
| Date Of Birth | 1975 |
| Age | 48 years old |
| Birth Place | Hoquiam, Washington, United States |
| Father Name | Fridolph Hilman Persson |
| Languages | English |
| Religion | Christian |
| Nationality | American |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse Name | Ann |
| Children | 4 |
| Profession | Pro Poker Player, Businessman, and YouTuber |
| Net Worth | $40 Million |
Eric Persson Maverick Gaming Net Worth
Eric Hans Persson’s involvement in the gaming sector, particularly through his investment in Maverick Gaming, has garnered significant attention in recent years. Maverick Gaming, a rapidly expanding company, owns and operates numerous casinos and cardrooms across the United States. Persson joined Maverick Gaming’s board of directors in 2019 after making a substantial $80 million investment in the company, marking a turning point in its growth trajectory.
Since Persson’s involvement, Maverick Gaming has experienced exponential growth, fueled by a strategic series of acquisitions. Under his guidance, the company has significantly increased its footprint in the gambling industry, focusing on expanding its presence in key states such as Washington and Nevada. Through his extensive knowledge and experience in the gaming sector, Persson has played a pivotal role in identifying opportunities and driving the company’s expansion.
Today, Maverick Gaming boasts ownership of more than two dozen casinos and card rooms across six states, solidifying its position as one of the fastest-growing gaming businesses in the United States. Persson’s strategic leadership has been instrumental in securing high-profile acquisitions, positioning Maverick Gaming for continued success and growth in the competitive gaming industry.
While Eric Persson’s exact net worth is not publicly disclosed, his significant investment in Maverick Gaming and his role in its rapid expansion suggest a considerable financial standing. As Maverick Gaming continues to thrive, it is likely that Persson’s wealth will increase alongside the company’s ongoing success, further cementing his influence in the gaming world.
Maverick Gaming Website: Click Here.
Eric Persson Net Worth
As of 2024, Eric Hans Persson’s net worth is estimated at $40 million. He is the CEO and founder of Maverick Gaming, a rapidly growing casino and gaming company that has become a prominent player in the industry. Maverick Gaming is valued at over $1 billion, reflecting its significant success and expansion under Persson’s leadership. His strategic vision and hands-on approach have played a critical role in positioning Maverick Gaming as one of the most valuable and influential gaming companies in the United States.
Maverick Gaming Net Worth
Eric Persson, the CEO, and Justin Beltram, the COO (formerly Vice President of Slots at Bellagio and Marina Bay Sands), co-founded Maverick Gaming in December 2017. Together, they bring over 30 years of combined experience in the global gaming industry, leveraging their expertise to build a formidable presence in the market.
Based in Nevada, Maverick Gaming, LLC operates a diverse portfolio of casinos across Washington and Nevada. The company is committed to providing a comprehensive gaming experience, with 31 casinos featuring 2,700 slots, 1,300 hotel rooms, 360 table games, and 50 restaurants. Additionally, Maverick Gaming has a significant presence in sports betting, striving to make it possible for anyone to bet on sports online.
In 2023, Maverick Gaming made a notable acquisition, purchasing four cardrooms in Washington for $80.5 million. This expansion helped further solidify its position in the industry. Eric Persson, who has long dreamed of owning a casino, played a pivotal role in this acquisition, funding the purchase with a mix of personal and private investment company funds.
The company operates over 22 card rooms in Washington and Nevada, and in total, Maverick Gaming boasts a portfolio of 27 casinos. Persson’s commitment to the business is reflected in his vision for the future, as he aims to expand the company further. The name “Maverick” was inspired by Tom Cruise’s character in Top Gun, and Eric chose the name as a tribute to his son. As the company grows, Eric has expressed his desire to eventually pass it on to his son, continuing the legacy.
In a recent interview, Eric shared that Maverick Gaming currently holds an enterprise value of approximately $1 billion, with ambitious plans to reach a $5 billion valuation in the next five years.
Personal influence in the world of online gambling
Eric Hans Persson has had a profound impact on the online gambling industry, thanks to his leadership and innovation. As the CEO and co-founder of NetEnt, Persson played a pivotal role in establishing the company as a leader in the field. NetEnt became known for its commitment to quality, cutting-edge technology, and its focus on innovation. Under Persson’s guidance, the company set new standards in the industry, inspiring others to follow suit and elevate the overall gaming experience. His vision and leadership were instrumental in shaping the online gambling landscape, contributing significantly to its growth.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Persson is also dedicated to philanthropy. He has been actively involved in charitable causes, particularly those related to education and children’s health. His charitable contributions reflect his strong belief in making a positive impact on the world and supporting the well-being of others. Persson’s philanthropic efforts are a testament to his character, demonstrating his commitment to using his success to help others and make a meaningful difference in society.
Eric Persson Vs Phill Hellmuth
Both are two prominent figures in the world of poker. I have tried to differentiate the personas, but truly these two are unique according to their lifestyles and careers. Let’s go through the table.
| Eric Persson | Phil Hellmuth |
| Co-founder and CEO of Maverick Gaming, a casino and card room company | Record holder of seventeen World Series of Poker bracelets |
| Senior Vice President at Las Vegas Sands Corporation and President and COO of Azure Gaming | Known for flamboyant personality and frequent outbursts at the poker table |
| Born and raised in Hoquiam, Washington, and a member of the Shoalwater Bay Indian Nation | Born in Madison, Wisconsin, in 1964 |
| Notable for a high-stakes cash game poker match with a $1,978,000 pot | Turned professional in the early 1980s and won his first World Series of Poker bracelet in 1989 |
| Well-respected figure in both the business and poker worlds, known for intelligence, drive, and ambition | Successful tournament player across various poker games, including No-Limit Hold’em, Seven-Card Stud, and Pot-Limit Omaha |
| Generous philanthropist who has donated to charities like the Shoalwater Bay Tribe Foundation and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas | Regular on the World Poker Tour and the European Poker Tour |
| – | Popular poker commentator and contributor to poker magazines and websites |
| – | Polarizing figure in the poker world, with some admiring his success and personality while others find him arrogant and obnoxious |
Social Media Profiles
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