Canada
Boyd Gaming Reports Second-Quarter 2020 Results
Boyd Gaming Corporation reported financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2020.
Keith Smith, President and Chief Executive Officer of Boyd Gaming, said: “Across the country, our team members did a tremendous job getting our properties back open quickly and safely over the final six weeks of the quarter. And since reopening began, we are off to an excellent start. On a comparable basis at our reopened properties, we achieved Companywide EBITDAR growth and significant margin improvement while complying with state-regulated reductions in gaming capacity. During the reopening period, our Midwest & South properties posted double-digit EBITDAR gains, while our Las Vegas Locals properties also improved EBITDAR performance versus prior year. While overall visitation and revenues are down, spend per visit is robust, and we have successfully streamlined operating and marketing expenses to drive margin gains of more than 1,000 basis points in both the Midwest & South and Las Vegas Locals segments. These positive operating trends are continuing into July, giving us confidence that we can sustain increased efficiencies in our operating model.”
Smith continued: “We are also making great progress positioning our Company for the digital future of our industry. With the recent launch of our Stardust Social Casino mobile app, we established our first interactive gaming presence under the Stardust brand. We also continued to expand our strategic partnership with FanDuel Group as we introduced an online casino product in the state of Pennsylvania. With our industry-leading strategic partner and the iconic Stardust brand, Boyd Gaming is in an excellent position to capitalize on the compelling growth opportunity presented by interactive gaming and mobile sports betting.”
Due to impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, Boyd Gaming reported second-quarter 2020 revenues of $209.9 million, compared to $846.1 million in the second quarter of 2019. The Company recorded a net loss of $108.5 million, or $0.96 per share, for the second quarter of 2020, compared to net income of $48.5 million, or $0.43 per share, for the year-ago period.
Total Adjusted EBITDAR(1) was $16.1 million in the second quarter of 2020, compared to $232.6 million in the second quarter of 2019. Adjusted Earnings(1) for the second quarter of 2020 reflect a loss of $110.5 million, or $0.98 per share, compared to Adjusted Earnings of $52.5 million, or $0.46 per share, for the same period in 2019.
Operations Review
During the period from March 18 through May 19, 2020, all 29 of the Company’s properties nationwide were closed under state and local orders aimed at mitigating the spread of COVID-19. The Company resumed operations at 26 properties on the following dates.(2)
May 20: Delta Downs, Evangeline Downs, Treasure Chest
May 21: IP Casino Resort Spa, Sam’s Town Tunica
May 23: Kansas Star
May 27: Sam’s Town Shreveport, Amelia Belle
June 1: Ameristar St. Charles, Ameristar Kansas City, Diamond Jo Dubuque, Diamond Jo Worth
June 4: The Orleans, Gold Coast, Suncoast, Aliante, Cannery, Sam’s Town, Jokers Wild, California, Fremont
June 15: Blue Chip, Belterra Casino Resort
June 19: Belterra Park
June 26: Valley Forge
July 1: Par-A-Dice
The following comparisons reflect operating trends for the period from the reopening date of each property through June 30, 2020, as compared to the corresponding period of the prior year. All properties operated under significantly reduced capacity in compliance with local and state restrictions.
Combined revenues for the 16 reopened Midwest & South segment properties were down 18% from the comparable prior-year period, while combined Adjusted EBITDAR rose 16% and operating margins increased more than 1,200 basis points. The seven Las Vegas Locals properties that reopened on June 4, 2020, reported a combined revenue decrease of 28% from the prior year, while combined Adjusted EBITDAR grew 1% and operating margins increased nearly 1,300 basis points. The Company’s two reopened Downtown Las Vegas segment properties reported a combined revenue decline of 60% from the prior year while combined Adjusted EBITDAR for the reopening period was breakeven, reflecting the impact of reduced visitation to Las Vegas as well as lower business volumes from the Company’s Hawaiian customer base.
Segment results for the second quarter and year-to-date periods ended June 30, 2020, are presented in the financial tables accompanying this release.
(2) As of July 28, 2020, Eastside Cannery, Eldorado and Main Street Station remain closed to the public.
Balance Sheet Update
As of June 30, 2020, Boyd Gaming had cash on hand of $1.31 billion, and total debt of $4.98 billion. Cash and debt balances reflect the Company’s issuance of $600 million of 8.625% senior notes due 2025 on May 21, 2020, as well as $670 million drawn from the Company’s revolving credit facilities on March 16, 2020.
Conference Call Information
Boyd Gaming will host a conference call to discuss second-quarter 2020 results today, July 28, at 5:00 p.m. Eastern. The conference call number is (888) 317-6003, passcode 6244842. Please call up to 15 minutes in advance to ensure you are connected prior to the start of the call.
The conference call will also be available live on the Internet at www.boydgaming.com, or: https://www.webcaster4.com/Webcast/Page/964/35870.
Following the call’s completion, a replay will be available by dialing (877) 344-7529 today, July 28, beginning at 7:00 p.m. Eastern and continuing through Tuesday, August 4 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern. The conference number for the replay will be 10146576. The replay will also be available on the Internet at www.boydgaming.com.
About Boyd Gaming:
Founded in 1975, Boyd Gaming Corporation (NYSE: BYD) is a leading geographically diversified operator of 29 gaming entertainment properties in 10 states. The Company is also a strategic partner and 5% equity owner of FanDuel Group, the nation’s leading sports-betting and iGaming operator. With one of the most experienced leadership teams in the casino industry, Boyd Gaming prides itself on offering its guests an outstanding entertainment experience, delivered with unwavering attention to customer service. For additional Company information and press releases, visit www.boydgaming.com.
SOURCE Boyd Gaming Corporation
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Canada
Group from Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe and Great Canadian Entertainment Announce Agreement for the Acquisition of Elements Casino Chilliwack
Great Canadian Entertainment and a consortium group of certain communities from the Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe, through an entity affiliated with Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe Management Ltd. (the “Ts’elxwéyeqw Group”), announced that on November 7th, 2025, they entered into a definitive agreement for the purchase by the Ts’elxwéyeqw Group from Great Canadian Entertainment of Elements Casino Chilliwack, one of the premier gaming and entertainment destinations in the Fraser Valley region of British Columbia.
The Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe constitute seven First Nation communities and are the First People of the Chilliwack River watershed. The transaction represents a transformational milestone for the communities within the Ts’elxwéyeqw Group.
Elements Casino Chilliwack serves guests across the Fraser Valley and is Chilliwack’s top destination for gaming and entertainment, featuring over 300 slots, live and electronic table games, bingo, dining, live entertainment and more.
The closing of the transaction remains subject to customary closing conditions and the receipt of regulatory and other approvals. Under the terms of the definitive agreement, Great Canadian Entertainment will continue to provide transitional services and support to the Ts’elxwéyeqw Group for a period following closing.
“This purchase marks an exciting milestone for our Nations and for the entire territory. By coming together in partnership, we are not only investing in a strong business opportunity, but also in the future of our people. The revenues generated through this acquisition will help strengthen our communities, create new opportunities, and ensure our Nations continue to play a leading role in the local economy. Additionally, we believe that local community-based ownership of Elements Casino Chilliwack will further strengthen the broader Fraser Valley community and economy. It’s a proud moment that reflects how Indigenous leadership and collaboration can build a stronger, more inclusive future for everyone,” said Chief David Jimmie, Chief of Squiala First Nation and President of Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe Management Ltd.
“We are very excited to have entered into this agreement with the Ts’elxwéyeqw Group. We have had the privilege of being part of the Chilliwack community since we opened Elements Casino Chilliwack in 2012, and we believe that under the Ts’elxwéyeqw Group’s stewardship, the business will begin an exciting new chapter. For the team members and guests of Elements Casino Chilliwack, and the local community, we can think of no better owner for the business. We look forward to the closing and then working with the Ts’elxwéyeqw Group team during the transition period,” said Matt Anfinson, CEO of Great Canadian Entertainment.
McCarthy Tétrault LLP is acting as legal advisor and KPMG Corporate Finance Inc. is acting as financial advisor to the Ts’elxwéyeqw Group. McMillan LLP is acting as legal advisor to Great Canadian Entertainment.
The post Group from Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe and Great Canadian Entertainment Announce Agreement for the Acquisition of Elements Casino Chilliwack appeared first on Americas iGaming & Sports Betting News.
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The Canadian iGaming market has evolved from an emerging opportunity into one of the most competitive and innovative digital gaming arenas worldwide. Ontario’s regulated framework has paved the way for rapid expansion, attracting established international operators alongside ambitious newcomers that are carving out share through brand differentiation and data-driven acquisition.
Methodology: How Growth Was Measured
To understand which casino brands are gaining momentum and why, the award-winning Mr. Gamble Casino Trends Meter—a proprietary performance index powered by Semrush, Ahrefs, in-house click tracking, market benchmarks, and predictive analytics—analyzed year-over-year (YoY) performance from January–June 2024 versus January–June 2025. The results point to a vibrant, fiercely competitive landscape where execution, trust, and experience are the real drivers of sustained growth.
Brands Showing Standout Growth in 2025
Strong outperformance highlights different paths to scale
Wild Tokyo posted an extraordinary +134% YoY, showing how bold branding, a distinctive identity, and targeted acquisition can resonate with players seeking unique experiences. Clean yet edgy design, paired with robust SEO execution and engagement programs, helped the brand cut through a crowded market.
LuckyDays delivered +110% YoY by striking a balance between simplicity and substance. A minimalistic UX, a vast game library, and strong affiliate relationships have positioned it as a trusted destination for Canadian players.
BetVictor, a legacy operator with deep roots, recorded +107% YoY. Its evolution from traditional bookmaker to diversified iGaming powerhouse underscores how credibility and adaptability can translate into modern growth.
Agile mid-tier brands are also accelerating: SlotsMagic at +94% and Betibet at +88% demonstrate how focused SEO, analytics-led decision making, and smart promotional strategy can punch above weight.
Crypto-forward momentum and broader market depth
The joint rise of BetFury and SmokAce—both at +74%—signals growing acceptance of crypto and blockchain-based gaming among Canadian users, driven by transparency, fast payments, and a tech-forward ethos.
Meanwhile, Paripesa, Mond, and ComeOn maintained robust double-digit YoY growth, underscoring the market’s depth and diversity beyond a handful of headline names.
Market Maturity: Compliance, Trust, and UX Win
As more provinces explore regulated frameworks modeled on Ontario, competition is intensifying. The brands pulling ahead are those investing in compliance, transparency, and player satisfaction—prioritizing product quality and retention over short-term promotions.
“Players are becoming more selective, more informed, and more focused on trust,” says Paul Puolakka, CMO at Mr. Gamble. “We’re seeing a clear shift toward quality brands that prioritize experience, safety, and innovation—the ones achieving real, sustained growth.”
Puolakka adds: “Data doesn’t just tell us who’s growing—it shows us why. The operators succeeding in Canada are those that deeply understand their audience, use insights effectively, and build long-term value instead of chasing short-term hype.”
Trends Shaping the Next Phase of iGaming in Canada
- Branding + data-led acquisition let emerging brands challenge incumbents more effectively than ever.
- Crypto-friendly casinos are moving from niche to mainstream consideration for Canadian users.
- SEO, content strategy, and affiliate partnerships remain reliable, capital-efficient growth levers.
- Compliance, transparency, and UX are central to sustainable market share gains.
Looking Ahead
The fastest-growing casino brands capture more than impressive statistics—they reflect a market in transformation. With Wild Tokyo setting creative benchmarks and veterans like BetVictor and ComeOn proving that brand equity still matters, Canada’s iGaming sector is entering a phase defined by intelligent growth, regulatory maturity, and player empowerment.
As the industry continues to evolve, the Mr. Gamble Casino Trends Meter remains a useful compass for players, affiliates, and operators navigating this fast-changing landscape.
The post Canadian iGaming Growth Trends 2025: Data, Strategy, and the Brands Defining the Market appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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Ezugi, an innovative live dealer casino supplier known for pushing the boundaries of live gaming, retention, and distribution solutions, is proud to announce a new partnership with PokerStars, the world’s largest online poker site.
Through this partnership, PokerStars’ players in the UK and Ontario will gain access to Ezugi’s standout portfolio, including Revolution Roulette, Ultimate Roulette, Unlimited Blackjack and Lucky 7 online casino games.
PokerStars, launched in 2001, is one of the world’s leading online poker and casino brands and operates as part of Flutter Entertainment. It has grown to become the largest poker site globally, offering the widest selection of online games and hosting prestigious live tournaments.
Formed in 2012, Ezugi is a global live casino provider with a focus on meeting operator and player needs with best-of-breed localised content. The Ezugi games portfolio includes a wide range of live dealer games, many of which are unique. Ezugi became part of Evolution in 2018 and continues to build on its reputation for providing unique and innovative games and solutions for online casino and retail betting shop operators.
Gilad Ben-Ami, Chief Executive Officer at Ezugi, said: “PokerStars’ players already enjoy a wide range of live casino and online slot games from Evolution brands such as Evolution, NetEnt, Red Tiger and Big Time Gaming. Now Ezugi is delighted and honoured to add even more choice for PokerStars’ players with our own innovative games.”
Ben-Ami continued: “The release of Ezugi games to PokerStars clearly demonstrates the rich variety and innovative features of the Ezugi games portfolio. Ultimate Roulette is a unique multiplier Roulette that blends circus-themed fun and TV game show excitement; Revolution Roulette puts a unique spin on classic Roulette by adding special multiplier pockets to the wheel; Unlimited Blackjack allows an unlimited number of players to play at the table, while also featuring Auto-Split functionality and a choice of four side bets – Perfect Pairs, 21+3, Perfect 11 and Ten20; and Lucky 7 is a very popular game with its origins in the Indian subcontinent – a fast-paced, simple and exciting Hi-Lo card game.”
Ben-Ami concluded: “We are confident that PokerStars’ players will love playing these games and we look forward to adding more Ezugi titles for them in the future.”
The post Ezugi partners with PokerStars to further extend live casino game choice for players appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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