July 9 : UK gaming firm Playtech on Thursday forecast 2026 adjusted core profit above market expectations, after strong growth in the United States and Latin America boosted first-half earnings.Shares surged nearly 19 per cent to 375.60 pence by 0750 GMT.Here are some more details:• Playtech expects 2026 adjusted core profit of at least €270 million ($308.75 million), above company-compiled analysts' average expectations of €219 million. • "Performance in the US, driven by our partnership with Hard Rock Digital, has been exceptionally strong," Chief Executive Mor Weizer said in a statement.• Hard Rock Digital is the online betting and gaming arm of Hard Rock International and is one of Playtech's largest customers.• The Douglas-based company expects adjusted core profit to rise 70 per cent