Gambling in the USA

Caesars Entertainment Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2019 Results

Published

6 years ago

February 26, 2020

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 Caesars®, Harrah’s® and Horseshoe® 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.

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American gambling industry

Gaming Americas Weekly Roundup – October 27-November 2

Published

4 days ago

November 4, 2025

Niji Narayan

gaming-americas-weekly-roundup-–-october-27-november-2

Reading Time: 2 minutes

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

The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) announced the addition of the Texas Coalition on Problem Gambling and the Vermont Council on Gaming and Health as its newest state Affiliate members, joining a growing community of organisations dedicated to advancing prevention, education, treatment and recovery for those impacted by problem gambling. While NCPG advocates for problem gambling programmes, policies and funding at the national level, its state affiliates focus efforts closer to home – connecting individuals and families with local resources, community partners and culturally relevant support. With these new additions, NCPG now has Affiliates in 37 states.

The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has taken further enforcement action against unlicensed gambling operators, issuing cease-and-desist letters to eight online casinos found to be illegally offering internet gaming to Michigan residents. The letters were recently sent to Aussie Play, CryptoGames, FortuneJack, Hugewin Casino, My Stake Casino, Play at Harry’s Casino, RuneChat and Slots Garden. Michigan’s regulated internet gaming and sports betting markets are reserved exclusively for operators licensed and monitored by the MGCB. Any site that offers gambling without state authorisation violates multiple statutes, including the Lawful Internet Gaming Act, the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act and sections of the Michigan Penal Code.

Great Canadian Entertainment announced that 10 of its casinos from coast to coast have successfully achieved RG Check reaccreditation, one of the world’s most comprehensive and rigorous responsible gambling accreditation programmes. RG Check is governed by the Responsible Gambling Council (RGC), an independent non-profit organisation recognised internationally for advancing responsible gambling standards. The programme evaluates gaming facilities on a broad set of best-practice criteria, including player safeguards, staff training, self-exclusion options, advertising standards and continuous improvement practices.

Partnerships

CT Interactive is expanding its presence in Peru with a new content launch on Te Apuesto, offering players a curated selection of top-quality games proven successful in other regulated markets. As part of the launch, Te Apuesto will offer exclusive access to Duck of Luck Buy Bonus from CT Interactive’s popular Buy Bonus series. The game features an innovative one-level Buy Bonus mechanic, delivering more strategic gameplay and greater player control. Another exclusive title, Lucky Clover 10, features vintage-inspired graphics and a strong mathematical model, delivering a smooth, engaging gameplay experience. In addition the exclusive titles, Te Apuesto players will also enjoy a variety of new games, including Enchanted Woods, The Shining Globe, Hyper Cuber, The Wild Rhino and Kyoto Magic.

Betsson Group has announced a new partnership with the Peruvian Volleyball Federation (FPV), becoming the Official Sponsor and Naming Partner of Peru’s premier women’s volleyball competition, now officially called the Betsson Peruvian Volleyball League. The 2025/2026 season of the Betsson Peruvian Volleyball League will take place from 25 October 2025 to 3 May 2026, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Peruvian volleyball. This partnership aims to elevate the visibility, professionalism and competitive standards of the sport, strengthening its presence both nationally and internationally. During an official press conference, FPV President Gino Vegas highlighted the key developments of the organisation of the tournament and expressed his enthusiasm for Betsson’s involvement as the league’s new main partner.

The post Gaming Americas Weekly Roundup – October 27-November 2 appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

American gambling industry

Gaming Americas Weekly Roundup – September 29-October 5

Published

1 month ago

October 7, 2025

Niji Narayan

gaming-americas-weekly-roundup-–-september-29-october-5

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Latest News

Jackpot Digital Inc. has announced that it has been granted a Manufacturer and Distributor License by the Mississippi Gaming Commission. This approval authorizes Jackpot Digital to supply gaming equipment to licensed casino operators throughout Mississippi. This marks the Company’s second state-level manufacturer’s license in the US. Additional licensing applications are currently pending in other jurisdictions as part of the Company’s ongoing growth strategy. Mississippi is one of the nation’s premier destination gaming markets, generating over $2.4 billion in gross gaming revenue in 2023. The state’s Gulf Coast and Biloxi regions are particularly well known for their vibrant casino tourism and established gaming brands.

iDEA (iDevelopment and Economic Association), the leading trade association representing the U.S. online gaming industry, launched the definitive online destination for all things online gambling: ideagrowth.org. The new website provides the media, and U.S. legislators and regulators, a comprehensive resource for data-driven research, policy insights, and responsible gaming resources. The new website provides the industry’s most vital statistics and research — from consumer protections to economic development — in an engaging, accessible format designed for maximum impact.

CT Interactive has further strengthened its international presence by expanding its certified game portfolio on the regulated Peruvian market with 20 new titles. This milestone underscores the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality, engaging gaming content tailored specifically to regional markets. The newly certified portfolio features titles from CT Interactive’s popular Buy Bonus product line, including fan favorites such as Duck of Luck, Fruits & Sweets, Doctor Winstein, and Nanook the White Ghost. These enhanced editions deliver dynamic gameplay with one- or three-level Buy Bonus options, giving players new tools for diverse strategies and greater control over the game’s pace and excitement. A highlight of the newly certified titles is the launch of Lucky Clover 10, the latest addition to the acclaimed Clover-themed series.

Partnerships

CT Interactive has entered a new phase of its Latin American growth by launching its complete portfolio of games on Rushbet in Mexico and Peru. This collaboration with Rush Street Interactive—one of the region’s leading online casino and sportsbook operators—marks a significant step in the company’s international expansion. Players on Rushbet now have access to proven favorites like Lucky Clover, 40 Treasures, Win Storm and Big Chilli, along with the engaging Hot Luck three-level jackpot, designed to enhance player excitement and retention. This partnership underscores CT Interactive’s commitment to long-term collaboration and delivering tailored gaming solutions across diverse Latin American markets.

Hard Rock International has announced its 26th annual PINKTOBER campaign in partnership with Sports Illustrated Swimsuit ahead of this Breast Cancer Awareness Month. As a global entertainment and hospitality brand guided by the principle “All is One,” Hard Rock is leveraging every touchpoint to support the cause throughout October, from a limited-edition retail collection to special menu items and events. A portion of proceeds from PINKTOBER sales each year are donated to the Hard Rock Heals Foundation, the charitable arm of Hard Rock, to support breast cancer awareness and research worldwide. The program has raised over $13 million for breast cancer research since its inception.

The post Gaming Americas Weekly Roundup – September 29-October 5 appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

American gambling industry

Gaming Americas Weekly Roundup – September 22-28

Published

1 month ago

September 30, 2025

Niji Narayan

gaming-americas-weekly-roundup-–-september-22-28

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Latest News

The Brazilian Institute of Responsible Gaming (IBJR), an entity that brings together the leading operators of regulated sports betting and online gaming in Brazil and worldwide, is beginning a process of leadership transition. Fernando Vieira is leaving the executive presidency of the institution to pursue a new professional opportunity in another sector. The association has already started the process of selecting Fernando’s successor, and during this transition period, André Gelfi, current director, board member and one of the founders of the entity, will serve as interim president. During his tenure, Fernando was one of the most active voices in consolidating the regulated betting sector in Brazil, helping to shape the public debate, expanding the responsible gaming agenda and leading the fight against the illegal market, which still represents a large portion of activity in the country.

Genius Sports Limited has announced that it has acquired Sports Innovation Lab, the leader in sports fan data. The acquisition fast-tracks the expansion of Genius Sports’ media business, combining the most comprehensive official game data with the deepest fan intelligence available. Together, the two companies will deliver a 360° view of the modern fan journey, uniting on-field performance with off-field transactions, unlocking new value and innovation across the global sports ecosystem. This combination creates the most comprehensive fan database in sports and entertainment, tracking billions of annual transactions, including purchases, attendance and viewership. It enables brands and agencies to target fans with unmatched precision, directly connect campaigns to real behaviours and transactions, and deliver measurable ROI across every channel.

Partnerships

CT Gaming has announced another successful installation in the Latin American region, strengthening its footprint in one of the most dynamic gaming markets worldwide. In partnership with Group Caliente, CT Gaming has introduced the Diamond King 4 multigame on the cutting-edge NEXT cabinet at the operator’s venue in the region of Tijuana, Mexico. This installation brings a premium gaming experience, combining next-generation hardware with one of CT Gaming’s most celebrated multigames. This is not the first collaboration between CT Gaming and Group Caliente, as the two companies have built a strong and lasting partnership over the years. However, the new project represents an important step forward, further enhancing the gaming offerings available to players in the region.

BetMGM has announced a new content partnership making BetMGM the presenting sponsor of Playmaker HQ’s “Roommates Show” with Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart. Playmaker HQ, part of Better Collective’s global House of Brands, is also debuting “No Limit” under its dedicated casino content arm, All In – a new show featuring former NBA star Iman Shumpert. BetMGM will serve as the presenting sponsor. “Roommates Show” is a weekly video podcast hosted by Josh Hart and Jalen Brunson, two of the NBA’s top rising stars and backcourt dynamic duo of the New York Knicks. Joining Josh and Jalen is their best friend and college roommate, Matt Hillman, serving as the show’s third co-host. The latest season began September 6 with BetMGM as the presenting sponsor.

The post Gaming Americas Weekly Roundup – September 22-28 appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.