A multi-billion dollar offer last week to take two gambling companies private both shocked markets and raised questions about the increased role of private equity in the space.

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Last week, Apollo Funds announced the purchases of IGT’s digital and gaming business and Everi Holdings Inc. The companies entered into definitive agreements to be acquired by a newly formed holding company that’s owned by funds managed by affiliates of Apollo Global Management, Inc. The all-cash deal, announced July 26, values the combined companies at $6.3 billion.

Under the deal, Everi shareholders will receive $14.25 per share representing a 56% premium to the prior day’s closing price.