Gambling in the USA
Caesars Entertainment Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2019 Results
Received Stockholder Approval for Merger with Eldorado Resorts
Caesars Entertainment Corporation reported fourth quarter and full-year 2019 results as summarized in the discussion below, which highlights certain GAAP and non-GAAP financial measures on a consolidated basis.
Fourth Quarter Highlights
- Fourth quarter net revenues increased 2.6%, or $54 million, from $2.12 billion to $2.17 billion.
- Fourth quarter income from operations increased 77.0%, or $77 million, from $100 million to $177 million.
- Fourth quarter net income/(loss) decreased $502 million, from income of $198 million to a loss of $304 million.
- Non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA increased 2.8%, or $16 million, from $567 million to $583 million.
- Non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA, excluding Rio, increased 3.4%, or $19 million, to $572 million.
Full Year Highlights
- Full year net revenues increased 4.2%, or $351 million, from $8.39 billion to $8.74 billion.
- Full year income from operations decreased 16.4%, or $121 million, from $739 million to $618 million.
- Full year net income/(loss) decreased $1.50 billion, from income of $303 million to a loss of $1.20 billion.
- Non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA increased 4.2%, or $97 million, from $2.31 billion to $2.41 billion.
“Caesars Entertainment delivered another quarter of solid operational performance,” said Tony Rodio, President and Chief Executive Officer of Caesars Entertainment. “Caesars’ results were largely driven by the strong demand at our Las Vegas properties, excellent cost controls, and the addition of sports betting in several states which drove increased visitation. In addition, our focus on costs and operating efficiencies across the company contributed to the excellent performance.” he added.
Additional Developments
Completed Sale of the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino
On December 5, 2019, the Company announced it has completed the previously announced sale of the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino for $516.3 million. Caesars will continue to manage and operate the Rio for a minimum of two years through a lease agreement, and the property will remain part of the Caesars Rewards network during the term of the lease.
Stockholders Approve Merger of Caesars Entertainment and Eldorado Resorts
On November 15, 2019, Caesars Entertainment and Eldorado Resorts, Inc. announced that at separate Special Meetings of Stockholders, their respective stockholders approved certain actions in connection with the Company’s proposed merger with Eldorado Resorts, Inc. (the “Merger”). The transaction is expected to be consummated in the first half of 2020 and remains subject to the receipt of certain regulatory gaming and other approvals, and other closing conditions.
Sale of Harrah’s Reno
On January 15, 2020, Caesars Entertainment and VICI Properties Inc. announced an agreement to sell Harrah’s Reno for $50 million. The proceeds of the transaction shall be split 75% to VICI and 25% to Caesars. Under the terms of the agreement, Caesars will continue to operate the property upon closing of the transaction, which will allow Caesars to cease operations at the property during the second half of 2020.
Basis of Presentation
Certain additional non-GAAP financial measures have been added to highlight the results of the Company. “Hold adjusted” results are adjusted to reflect the hold we achieved compared to the hold we expected. See the table at the end of this press release for the reconciliation of non-GAAP to GAAP presentations.
This release also includes the indicators ADR and RevPAR. See Supplemental Information in this release for information regarding how we define ADR and RevPAR. Our definition and calculation of ADR and RevPAR may be different than the definition and calculation of similarly titled indicators presented by other companies.
Financial Results
Caesars views each property as an operating segment and aggregates such properties into three regionally-focused reportable segments: (i) Las Vegas, (ii) Other U.S. and (iii) All Other, which is consistent with how Caesars manages the business. The results of each reportable segment presented below are consistent with the way management assesses these results and allocates resources, which is a consolidated view that adjusts for the effect of certain transactions between reportable segments within Caesars. “All Other” includes managed, international and other properties as well as parent and other adjustments to reconcile to consolidated Caesars results.
During the fourth quarter of 2019, net revenues increased $54 million as compared to 2018 driven by growth in all business verticals, with significant growth in Las Vegas due to healthy consumer demand and a higher cash customer mix. Other U.S. net revenues increased $18 million year over year primarily due to growth in Iowa and Indiana as a result of our new sportsbooks and better results in Atlantic City. All Other net revenues decreased $4 million year over year, primarily due to lower gaming volumes in the UK, offset by one-time payments to CIE for early terminations of WSOP licensing agreements. Across all of our casino properties, hold had a favorable impact of $5 million to $10 million this quarter compared to the prior year, and was $10 million to $15 million above our expectations.
During the year ended December 31, 2019, net revenues increased $351 million as compared to 2018 driven primarily by the acquisition of Centaur in July 2018, strong Las Vegas results and favorable hold. These positive factors were offset by lower gaming volume at our Atlantic City properties as a result of increased competition and inclement weather across some of our properties. Across all of our casino properties, hold had a favorable impact of $60 million to $65 million this year compared to the prior year and was $30 million to $35 million above our expectations.
During the fourth quarter of 2019, income from operations increased $77 million primarily due to a $54 million increase in net revenues in the fourth quarter of 2019 compared with 2018, as explained above. The decrease in operating expenses of $23 million also contributed to the increase of income from operations. The decrease in operating expenses was primarily due to a decrease in depreciation and amortization expense of $24 million, due to high accelerated depreciation in 2018 related to certain renovation projects in 2018, and lower impairment charges related to goodwill compared to 2018 and lower impairment charges related to tangible and other intangible assets related to Horseshoe Hammond in 2019. These decreases were partially offset by an increase in property, general, administrative and other primarily due to expenses related to payroll and our sports partnerships.
During the year ended December 31, 2019, income from operations decreased $121 million compared with 2018 due to an increase in operating expenses of $472 million offset by an increase in net revenue of $351 million in 2019 compared with 2018, as explained above. Operating expenses increased $223 million as a result of our acquisition of Centaur in 2018. Impairment of tangible and other intangible assets increased by $406 million due to the recognition of impairment charges in 2019 related to land and buildings and gaming rights. These increases were partially offset by a decrease of $151 million in depreciation and amortization expense, excluding Centaur, primarily due to higher depreciation expense in 2018 from disposals of property and equipment related to renovation projects at certain Las Vegas properties and accelerated depreciation of assets.
During the fourth quarter of 2019, net income/(loss) attributable to Caesars decreased $502 million from net income of $198 million to net loss of $304 million due to an increase in other loss of $627 million primarily due to a change in the fair value of the derivative liability related to the conversion option of CEC’s 5.00% convertible senior notes maturing in 2024 (the “CEC Convertible Notes”), offset by an increase of $43 million in tax benefit and an increase of $77 million in income from operations, as explained above.
During the year ended December 31, 2019, net income/(loss) attributable to Caesars decreased $1.5 billion from net income of $303 million to net loss of $1.2 billion due to an increase in other loss of $1.38 billion primarily due to a year over year change in the fair value of the derivative liability related to the CEC Convertible Notes. In addition, a $44 million change in the fair value of disputed claims liability related to Caesars Entertainment Operating Company, Inc.’s emergence from bankruptcy in 2017, and an increase in interest expense of $24 million as a result of our failed sale-leaseback financing obligations also contributed to the decrease of net income/(loss) attributable to Caesars. Income from operations also decreased $121 million in 2019 compared with 2018, as explained above. These were partially offset by an increase of $20 million in tax benefit.
During the fourth quarter of 2019, adjusted EBITDA improved $16 million as compared to 2018 driven primarily by the increase in revenues explained above and excellent cost controls across the properties and corporate office, including a reduction in payroll and professional services expenses. This increase was offset by continued investments in sports sponsorships. Across all of our casinos, hold had a favorable impact of $0 to $5 million year over year and was $5 million to $10 million above our expectations. Excluding the performance at Rio, adjusted EBITDA improved $19 million to $572 million as compared to 2018.
During the year ended December 31, 2019, adjusted EBITDA improved $97 million as compared to 2018 due to strong Las Vegas results and the acquisition of Centaur in July 2018, offset by competition in Atlantic City and increased investments in sports sponsorships. Across all of our casinos, hold had a favorable impact of $40 million to $45 million year over year and was $20 million to $25 million above our expectations.
About Caesars:
Caesars Entertainment is one of the world’s most diversified casino-entertainment providers and the most geographically diverse U.S. casino-entertainment company. Since its beginning in Reno, Nevada, in 1937, Caesars Entertainment has grown through development of new resorts, expansions and acquisitions. Caesars Entertainment’s resorts operate primarily under the CaesarsÂź, Harrah’sÂź and HorseshoeÂź brand names. Caesars Entertainment’s portfolio also includes the Caesars Entertainment UK family of casinos. Caesars Entertainment is focused on building loyalty and value with its guests through a unique combination of great service, excellent products, unsurpassed distribution, operational excellence and technology leadership. Caesars Entertainment is committed to its employees, suppliers, communities and the environment through its PEOPLE PLANET PLAY framework. For more information, please visit www.caesars.com/corporate.
Gambling in the USA
Wind Creek Chicago Southland to Open to the Public on November 11
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Wind Creek Chicago Southland has announced that it will open to the public on November 11. The state-of-the-art casino represents the first step toward delivering a full-scale integrated resort experience, scheduled for completion in spring 2025.
Spanning an impressive 70,000 square feet, Wind Creek Chicago Southland features over 1400 slot machines, 56 table games, high-limit slot areas, a high-limit table games salon, a poker room, a dynamic sportsbook, and 4 âHidden Gemsâ throughout the casino floorâoffering visitors a unique and customizable private gaming and event microenvironment. Designed with an emphasis on curated entertainment spaces, this new offering aims to redefine leisure and hospitality for the entire region.
âThe opening of Wind Creek Chicago Southland underscores our dedication to making a positive economic impact in the communities we serve. Weâre committed to create opportunities that support the region, offer competitive benefits for Team Members, and further strengthen the vibrant Southland community,â said Jay Dorris, President and CEO of Wind Creek Hospitality.
Wind Creek Chicago Southland is expected to create more than 1000 full-time jobs in fields ranging from hospitality to technology. Roles will include security, gaming attendants, food service, IT technicians, and environmental services, reinforcing Wind Creekâs commitment to strengthening the local economy. Additionally, Homewood and East Hazel Crest will benefit from gambling revenue, along with 42 other south suburban communitiesâfunding essential local services within the immediate and surrounding communities.
âWind Creek Chicago Southland is more than a casinoâitâs a community-driven destination. The Tribe and Wind Creek will continue to prioritize the Villages of Homewood and East Hazel Crest as we are committed to uplifting our neighbors,â said Stephanie Bryan, Tribal Chair and CEO, Poarch Creek Indians.
On Nov. 6th and Nov. 7th, the Illinois Gaming Board visited the casino for two mandatory test days, which also included an extended invitation to family friends and local dignitaries. Wind Creek Hospitality received notice of approval on Nov. 8th to operate on Monday, Nov. 11th at approximately 11:00 a.m.
The Nov. 11th opening marks only the beginning of what will become a flagship destination. High-limit gaming rooms, a hotel, spa, poker room, a sportsbook and more will be available for Guests seeking diverse experiences. Wind Creekâs partnership with Fabio Viviani Hospitality Group will also introduce an exceptional range of signature restaurants and food & beverage offerings to the highly anticipated property.
âWhether youâre looking for elevated dining, quick-service eateries, or something in betweenâyou wonât be disappointed as weâre creating something truly unforgettable,â said Fabio Viviani.
âFrom the start, our mission has been to create jobs, spur economic growth, and offer the ultimate entertainment escape. Weâre thrilled to welcome our Guests on Nov. 11th to experience the excitement firsthand,â said Roger Kuehn, EVP and General Manager of Wind Creek Chicago Southland.
Gambling in the USA
Spin Your Way to Political Fun in Slotland and WinADayâs Race for Office MegaMatrix Slot
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Launched in 2020, Race for Office features a lively American theme with familiar political figures set against the U.S. Capitol. Updated for 2024, revamped to include Kamala Harris and Donald Trump with their running mates in a light-hearted style. With a 5-reel MegaMatrix setup and 15 paylines, players can bet anywhere from $0.60 to $30.
As the Game of the Month on Slotland and WinADay, Race for Office will be featured with special Match bonusesâ55% at Slotland and 44% at WinADay. Players using cryptocurrency can enjoy a 75% Match on Slotland deposits of $5 to $500, and a 66% Match on WinADay deposits of $40 to $200!
Keep spinning to unlock a lucky PICK ME round and boost your balance with some extra campaign cash! Players who hit three PICK ME scatters, the handshake, can enter a bonus game. By clicking on tiles in a 5Ă5 grid, players can level up to higher prizes, creating a race to collect winnings until they hit the coveted âCOLLECTâ sign.
Players can also enter a random draw for a chance to win up to $300. Every 100 spins earns a ticket for the Monthly Contest, with winners announced by December 17, 2024. Itâs the perfect incentive to keep spinning as the political season unfolds!
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View a video version of this story
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Gambling in the USA
Gaming Americas Weekly Roundup â October 28-November 3
Welcome to our weekly roundup of American gambling news again! Here, we are going through the weekly highlights of the American gambling industry which include the latest news and new partnerships. Read on and get updated.
Latest News
Elray Resources Inc. has announced a significant milestone in the companyâs growth strategy. The company has completed the sale of proprietary technology to 180 Life Sciences Corp. (NASDAQ:ATNF), a NASDAQ-listed company in exchange for preferred stock convertible into a 40% stake in ATNF and warrants to purchase 3 million shares of ATNF common stock, the conversion/exercise of which is subject to stockholder approval. The technology stack contained within Elrayâs technology package will assist ATNF in launching an iGaming Blockchain casino.
PrizePicks, the largest daily fantasy sports operator in North America, has announced that it has been awarded Daily Fantasy Sports Operator Licenses in Delaware and Missouri. The company will launch Arena, its innovative peer-to-peer fantasy sports contest, in both states. With these new state launches, Arena will now be available in 15 states across the US.
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (Board) unanimously voted to renew the Category 2 stand-alone casino license of Wind Creek Bethlehem LLC, operator of Wind Creek Bethlehem casino in Northampton County. In making the decision, the Board determined that Wind Creek Bethlehem LLC had fulfilled the obligations under its previously approved casino operatorâs license and therefore qualified to have its license renewed for an additional five-year period.
Aristocrat announced that the company was the first international slot and online technology company to be granted a Gaming-Related Vendor license by The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), the federal entity overseeing commercial gaming activities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This announcement grants Aristocrat the ability to provide the companyâs land-based electronic gaming machines (EGMs) and online games and technology solutions to commercial gaming operators licensed by the GCGRA.
Partnerships
SCCG Management, a leading global advisory and consulting firm in the gambling industry, has entered into a strategic partnership with Slot Machines Unlimited, a premier provider of refurbished slot machines and gaming equipment. The partnership between SCCG Management and Slot Machines Unlimited leverages both companiesâ strengths: Slot Machines Unlimitedâs expertise in refurbished gaming equipment and SCCGâs deep industry insight, global network and strategic growth capabilities. The collaboration will enhance Slot Machines Unlimitedâs international sales and service operations, ensuring gaming establishments worldwide have access to high-quality slot machines and support.
Galaxy Gaming Inc. has announced that the Galaxy Operating System (GOS) is now live on over 50 ships worldwide with Carnival Corporation & PLC, the worldâs largest leisure travel company. Since the installation, tables powered by GOS have awarded over $5 million in jackpot payouts to players. GOS is the jackpot progressive system for all Carnival Corporation ships, including Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line and Princess Cruises. Launched in 2024, GOS is the next-generation game management system developed by the industryâs leading table game experts.
The hottest new game from Aristocrat Gaming, Phoenix Link, is now live on casino floors, with Yaamavaâ Resort & Casino being the first in North America to offer the highly-anticipated game. As the next evolution of the international hit game, Dragon Link, Phoenix Link features player-favourite mechanics from top games with all-new themes, features and bonuses.
The post Gaming Americas Weekly Roundup â October 28-November 3 appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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