Near-Unanimous Vote Seals the Transaction (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Las Vegas – Shareholders of Golden Entertainment Inc. delivered resounding approval on March 31, 2026, for a master transaction agreement that positions the casino and tavern operator for privatization.[1][2] The special meeting saw nearly 99 percent support for the key proposal, clearing the path for Chairman and CEO Blake L. Sartini and affiliates to acquire operating assets while VICI Properties Inc. takes on seven casino properties in a sale-leaseback arrangement. This move marks a pivotal shift for the company founded in 2001, which employs about 5,000 people across Nevada gaming venues.
Near-Unanimous Vote Seals the Transaction
At the special shareholder meeting, a quorum of approximately 78 percent of the 26.4 million outstanding shares participated either in person or by proxy.[1] Proposal 1, which adopted the master transaction agreement, passed with 20.4 million votes in favor, just 208,000 against, and minimal abstentions. This equated to about 98.8 percent approval, demonstrating strong investor confidence in the strategic direction.
Two additional proposals also gained approval. The non-binding advisory vote on executive compensation related to the deal received majority support, while the adjournment proposal passed handily, though it proved unnecessary. The company plans to file certified results via Form 8-K with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.[2]
| Proposal | Votes For | Votes Against | Abstentions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Master Transaction Agreement | 20,429,630 | 208,131 | 20,158 |
| 2. Executive Compensation (Advisory) | 18,321,781 | 2,330,138 | 6,615 |
| 3. Adjournment | 19,538,974 | 1,096,295 | 23,265 |
Key Terms of the $1.16 Billion Agreement
The deal, first announced in November 2025, values the transaction at roughly $1.16 billion for the real estate component alone. Golden shareholders stand to receive 0.902 shares of VICI common stock plus $2.75 in cash per Golden share, reflecting a 41 percent premium over the November 5 closing price and totaling about $30 per share.[3][4] VICI will assume up to $426 million in debt from Golden’s senior secured credit facility as part of the sale-leaseback of seven casino assets…