MGM Resorts chief leaves door open to renewed bid from People Inc.

MGM Resorts' chief executive has left open the possibility of a renewed acquisition offer from People Inc., according to a report from the Wall Street Journal, as dealmaking activity in the casino industry continues to heat up.

The Journal reported that MGM was exploring the prospect of an offer from People Inc. after the media company withdrew its earlier proposal to buy the remainder of MGM Resorts at $48.30 per share.

The report did not detail why People Inc. pulled its original bid or what terms a renewed offer might include, but it suggests talks between the two companies have not been fully closed off despite the withdrawal.

MGM Resorts operates casino and entertainment properties across the United States, and speculation about consolidation in the gaming and hospitality sector has grown in recent months as investors watch for further deal activity.

Neither MGM nor People Inc. has issued a detailed public statement confirming the status of renewed negotiations, and further details of any potential transaction were not immediately available.