Gambling in the USA
Scientific Games Reports Fourth Quarter Results and Full Year 2018 Results
Operating results provide strong finish to year with path set for growth and deleveraging in 2019
Scientific Games Corporation today reported results for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2018.
Fourth Quarter 2018 Financial Highlights:
- Fourth quarter revenue rose 8 percent to $885.7 million, up from $823.0 million in the year ago period, reflecting $51.7 million in revenue from NYX, along with growth in our Lottery and Social businesses.
- Net income was $206.8 million compared to a net loss of $43.1 million in the prior year period, driven by improvement in operating income and due to a $183.1 million reversal of 55% of the previously established reserve related to the Shuffle Tech legal matter.
- Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA (“Consolidated AEBITDA”), a non-GAAP financial measure defined below, increased 6 percent to $343.5 million from $324.5 million in the prior year period, primarily driven by higher revenue and continued operational efficiencies. Consolidated AEBITDA margin, a non-GAAP financial measure defined below, was 38.8 percent, compared to 39.4 percent in the prior year period reflective of a shift in revenue mix primarily driven by NYX.
- Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities decreased to ($9.8) million from $118.1 million in the year ago period, driven primarily by making a $151.5 million payment to resolve the Shuffle Tech legal matter.
- Social Gaming IPO Filing: On December 17, 2018, our Social gaming business confidentially submitted a draft registration statement on Form S-1 to the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) relating to a possible initial public offering of a minority interest in our Social business (the “contemplated IPO”). The Company anticipates that the proceeds from the contemplated IPO would primarily be used to repay debt. On February 14, 2019, our Social gaming business confidentially submitted Amendment No. 1 to its draft registration statement on Form S-1.
Full Year 2018 Financial Highlights:
- Revenue increased 9 percent, or $279.6 million, year over year to $3,363.2 million.
- Net loss was $352.4 million compared to a net loss of $242.3 million a year ago, driven by $253.4 million in restructuring and other charges primarily consisting of the $151.5 million payment to resolve the Shuffle Tech legal matter and $27.5 million for contingent consideration associated with the higher-than-expected results from the 2017 acquisition of Spicerack.
- Consolidated AEBITDA, a non-GAAP financial measure as defined below, increased 9 percent to $1,329.7 million compared to $1,224.9 million in the prior year.
- Net cash provided by operating activities was $346.1 million compared to $507.1 million in the prior year, reflective of the $151.5 million payment to resolve the Shuffle Tech legal matter and a $52.4 million unfavorable change in accrued interest, due to the timing of our interest payments, which were modified in connection with our refinancing transactions.
Barry Cottle, CEO and President of Scientific Games, said, “This is a very exciting time for Scientific Games. We’re focused on developing the best games and the most innovative platforms to deliver outstanding gaming experiences wherever and whenever players choose to play. We are building momentum and continuing to grow our business while at the same time operating more efficiently. The entire organization is enthused about 2019 and focused on helping our customers win, which will drive our free cash flow and create meaningful value for our shareholders.”
Michael Quartieri, Chief Financial Officer of Scientific Games, added, “We continue to grow our top line driven by the strength of our products. We believe there are opportunities for further growth in 2019, both on a top line and bottom line basis as we are firmly committed to maximize free cash flow and delever our balance sheet.”
SUMMARY CONSOLIDATED RESULTS
Three Months Ended December 31, |
||||||||
($ in millions) |
2018 |
2017 |
||||||
Revenue |
$ |
885.7 |
$ |
823.0 |
||||
Net income (loss) |
206.8 |
(43.1) |
||||||
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities |
(9.8) |
(1) |
118.1 |
|||||
Capital expenditures |
97.7 |
79.6 |
||||||
Non-GAAP Financial Measures (2) |
||||||||
Consolidated AEBITDA |
$ |
343.5 |
$ |
324.5 |
||||
Consolidated AEBITDA margin |
38.8% |
39.4% |
||||||
Free cash flow |
$ |
(229.2) |
(3) |
$ |
9.7 |
|||
Balance Sheet Measures |
As of Dec 31, 2018 |
As of Dec 31, 2017 |
||||||
Cash and cash equivalents |
$ |
168.2 |
$ |
788.8 |
||||
Principal face value of debt outstanding (4) |
9,218.8 |
8,869.4 |
||||||
Available liquidity |
438.7 |
1,009.4 |
||||||
(1) Includes a $151.5 million payment to resolve the Shuffle Tech legal matter. |
||||||||
(2) The financial measures “Consolidated AEBITDA”, “Consolidated AEBITDA margin”, and “free cash flow” are non-GAAP financial measures defined below under “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” and reconciled to the most directly comparable GAAP measures in the accompanying supplemental tables at the end of this release. |
||||||||
(3) Includes a $151.5 million payment to resolve the Shuffle Tech legal matter, $104.2 million for the final LNS concession funding contribution, and an approximate $49.5 million change in accrued interest. |
||||||||
(4) Principal face value of outstanding 2026 Secured Euro Notes and 2026 Unsecured Euro Notes are presented at the constant foreign exchange rate at issuance of these notes. |
GAMING HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018
Three Months Ended December 31, |
Increase/(Decrease) |
|||||||||||||
($ in millions) |
2018 |
2017 |
Amount |
% |
||||||||||
Revenue |
||||||||||||||
Gaming operations(1) |
$ |
151.4 |
$ |
169.2 |
$ |
(17.8) |
(11) |
% |
||||||
Gaming machine sales |
166.7 |
189.8 |
(23.1) |
(12) |
% |
|||||||||
Gaming systems |
91.6 |
83.5 |
8.1 |
10 |
% |
|||||||||
Table products |
60.1 |
50.0 |
10.1 |
20 |
% |
|||||||||
$ |
469.8 |
$ |
492.5 |
$ |
(22.7) |
(5) |
% |
|||||||
AEBITDA |
$ |
233.2 |
$ |
237.8 |
$ |
(4.6) |
(2) |
% |
||||||
AEBITDA margin |
49.6% |
48.3% |
||||||||||||
(1) Gaming operations includes $6.8 million in WAP jackpots as a reduction to revenue in 2018, compared to the 2017 presentation in which $5.4 million of WAP jackpots was classified as cost of services. This change in classification has no impact on AEBITDA. |
- Total gaming revenue decreased $22.7 million, including an unfavorable $6.8 million impact on Gaming operations from revenue recognition accounting effective in 2018. AEBITDA decreased 2 percent, or $4.6 million, to $233.2 million, but reflects a 130 basis point improvement in the AEBITDA margin to 49.6 percent driven by product mix shift in the comparable quarter to higher margin table products and gaming systems.
- Gaming operations revenue declined $17.8 million in the fourth quarter of 2018, including the negative impact from the new revenue recognition accounting. Our WAP, premium and daily-fee participation ending installed base was impacted on a year over year basis by the long-term strategic relationship we entered into in Oklahoma in the third quarter. On a quarterly sequential basis, we experienced a 111 unit increase in the installed base and a $1.65 increase in average revenue per day. Our installed base on a quarterly sequential basis of other leased and participation games increased by 121 units with average daily revenue down $0.34, which reflects additional lower yielding units in Greece.
- Gaming machine sales revenue decreased $23.1 million year over year. The prior year included 884 units for new opening and expansion units and 700 VLT units to Canada versus only 286 units in this year’s quarter for new openings and expansions. The average sales price was $16,113, in the fourth quarter reflecting a greater mix of lower priced units.
- Gaming systems revenue increased $8.1 million to $91.6 million, primarily due to ongoing systems installations in Canada, coupled with increased hardware sales, primarily the iVIEW®4.
- Table products revenue increased $10.1 million to $60.1 million, reflecting strong global demand for shufflers and table products.
LOTTERY HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018
Three Months Ended |
Increase/(Decrease) |
|||||||||||||
($ in millions) |
2018 |
2017 |
Amount |
% |
||||||||||
Revenue |
||||||||||||||
Instant products |
$ |
150.2 |
$ |
151.1 |
$ |
(0.9) |
(1) |
% |
||||||
Lottery systems (1) |
80.5 |
66.1 |
14.4 |
22 |
% |
|||||||||
$ |
230.7 |
$ |
217.2 |
$ |
13.5 |
6 |
% |
|||||||
AEBITDA |
$ |
105.0 |
$ |
94.6 |
$ |
10.4 |
11 |
% |
||||||
AEBITDA margin |
45.5% |
43.6% |
||||||||||||
(1) Lottery systems revenue includes $20.4 million in product sales revenue, compared to $21.5 million in 2017. |
- Total lottery revenue increased $13.5 million, or 6 percent, to $230.7 million. AEBITDA increased 11 percent to $105.0 million, compared to $94.6 million in the prior year, with AEBITDA margin improving to 45.5 percent, primarily reflecting the increased margins on domestic lottery systems revenue.
- Instant products revenue of $150.2 million was essentially flat from the prior year.
- Lottery systems revenue increased $14.4 million, or 22 percent, to $80.5 million, driven by a combination of organic growth, higher multi-state jackpot activity in the quarter, a new contract in Kansas and the addition of keno in Pennsylvania.
SOCIAL HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018
($ in millions) |
Three Months Ended |
Increase/(Decrease) |
|||||||||||||
Revenue |
2018 |
2017 |
Amount |
% |
|||||||||||
Mobile |
$ |
91.2 |
$ |
72.0 |
$ |
19.2 |
27 |
% |
|||||||
Web and other |
22.5 |
23.5 |
(1.0) |
(4) |
% |
||||||||||
$ |
113.7 |
$ |
95.5 |
$ |
18.2 |
19 |
% |
||||||||
AEBITDA |
$ |
28.3 |
$ |
21.8 |
$ |
6.5 |
30 |
% |
|||||||
AEBITDA margin |
24.9% |
22.8% |
- Social revenue grew 19 percent to $113.7 million, reflecting the ongoing popularity of Bingo ShowdownTM, the success of the recently launched MONOPOLY themed casino app and continued growth in Jackpot Party® Social Casino from new game features on our mobile platform.
- AEBITDA rose 30 percent to $28.3 million, and AEBITDA margin increased to 24.9 percent, primarily reflecting our continued scalable growth in revenue.
DIGITAL HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018
Three Months Ended |
Increase/(Decrease) |
||||||||||||||
($ in millions) |
2018 |
2017 |
Amount |
% |
|||||||||||
Revenue(1) |
|||||||||||||||
Sports and platform |
$ |
33.3 |
$ |
– |
$ |
33.3 |
nm |
||||||||
Gaming and other |
38.2 |
17.8 |
20.4 |
115 |
% |
||||||||||
$ |
71.5 |
$ |
17.8 |
$ |
53.7 |
302 |
% |
||||||||
AEBITDA |
$ |
11.8 |
$ |
5.1 |
$ |
6.7 |
131 |
% |
|||||||
AEBITDA margin |
16.5% |
28.7% |
|||||||||||||
nm – not meaningful |
|||||||||||||||
(1) Includes the results of NYX since the completion of its acquisition on January 5, 2018. |
- Total digital revenue increased to $71.5 million, due in part to $51.7 million of revenue from NYX.
- AEBITDA was $11.8 million and AEBITDA margin was 16.5 percent, reflecting the addition of NYX and the investment we are making in our domestic and international sports and platform business.
LIQUIDITY
Three Months Ended |
Increase/ |
|||||||||||||
($ in millions) |
2018 |
2017 |
(Decrease) |
|||||||||||
Net income (loss) |
$ |
206.8 |
$ |
(43.1) |
$ |
249.9 |
||||||||
Non-cash adjustments included in net income (loss) |
136.0 |
169.7 |
(33.7) |
|||||||||||
Non-cash interest |
6.6 |
3.8 |
2.8 |
|||||||||||
Changes in deferred income taxes and other |
(33.5) |
(9.6) |
(23.9) |
|||||||||||
Distributed earnings from equity investments |
8.5 |
12.9 |
(4.4) |
|||||||||||
Change in legal reserves (1) |
(334.6) |
– |
(334.6) |
|||||||||||
Changes in working capital accounts |
0.4 |
(15.6) |
16.0 |
|||||||||||
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities (2) |
$ |
(9.8) |
$ |
118.1 |
$ |
(127.9) |
||||||||
(1) Includes reversal of a portion of the previously established legal reserve. |
||||||||||||||
(2) Includes a $151.5 million settlement payment to resolve the Shuffle Tech legal matter. |
- Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities decreased to ($9.8) million from $118.1 million in the year ago period, principally related to the $151.5 million payment to resolve the Shuffle Tech legal matter and a $49.5 million impact from the timing of our interest payments, which were modified in connection with our refinancing transactions.
- Capital expenditures totaled $97.7 million in the fourth quarter of 2018, compared to $79.6 million in the prior-year period. The increase from the prior year was related to several long-term and highly accretive projects, including ongoing platform development in Digital, the acceleration of our installed base of participation games and WAP games, including the successful rollout of our James Bond franchise, and our 7-year contract extension with Ladbrokes Coral in the U.K.
- For 2019, we expect capital expenditures to be below 2018 and within a range of $345–$375 million, based on existing contractual obligations and planned strategic investments that we believe will be highly accretive to our future cash flow generation.
About Scientific Games:
Scientific Games Corporation (NASDAQ: SGMS) is a leading developer of technology-based products and services and associated content for the worldwide gaming, lottery, social and digital gaming industries. Our portfolio of revenue-generating activities primarily includes supplying gaming machines and game content, casino-management systems and table game products and services to licensed gaming entities; providing instant and draw-based lottery products, lottery systems and lottery content and services to lottery operators; providing social casino solutions to retail consumers and regulated gaming entities, as applicable; and providing a comprehensive suite of digital RMG and sports wagering solutions, distribution platforms, content, products and services. We also gain access to technologies and pursue global expansion through strategic acquisitions and equity investments.
Source: Scientific Games Corporation
Gambling in the USA
California Gambling Control Commission Advances Licensing, Tribal Partnerships, and Responsible Gaming Initiatives

Sacramento, CA — In a meeting packed with regulatory updates and licensing decisions, the California Gambling Control Commission (CGCC) convened on April 24 to advance numerous agenda items impacting the state’s gambling landscape—from tribal gaming approvals to responsible gambling programs and operator renewals.
Problem Gambling & Public Health Takes the Stage
The Commission meeting opened with a presentation by Sosha Marasigan-Quintero from the California Department of Public Health, offering an overview and update on the California Problem Gambling Treatment Services Program. While no specific staff recommendations were provided, the update underscores California’s continued focus on behavioral health in gambling.
Tribal Revenue Distribution Approved
The Commission approved the quarterly distribution of payments from the Revenue Sharing Trust Fund to eligible recipient Indian Tribes. This routine, yet vital, procedure ensures the equitable distribution of revenue to support tribal sovereignty and infrastructure across the state.
Cardroom Licensing: Approvals and Extensions
Among key licensing matters:
-
500 Club Casino (K & M Casinos, Inc.) received both initial and renewal owner-type license approvals through January 2027.
-
Casino Chico, Hollywood Park Casino, and Lake Bowl Cardroom were granted renewals and short-term extensions, some with conditions such as improving record-keeping systems or ensuring regulatory compliance ahead of reopening.
-
Hotel Del Rio & Casino was granted a 60-day extension under several strict conditions, including updated safety plans and the restatement of commingled financial records.
Key Employee Licensing Actions
The Commission approved several initial and renewal key employee licenses. Notably:
-
Jeffrey Thompson was approved with a condition prohibiting involvement in illegal gambling activities.
-
Kevin Lee and George Rahme received 120-day extensions for renewal processing.
Third-Party Proposition Player Services Under Scrutiny
The Commission approved both initial and temporary licenses for Fortune Players Group, Inc., with a lengthy list of conditions tied to the conduct of a former associate, Rene Medina. These conditions highlight the Commission’s ongoing vigilance in monitoring third-party player services and maintaining compliance across operations.
Progressive Gaming, LLC was also approved for an initial license, further expanding third-party service provider capacity.
Gaming Resource Suppliers & Tribal Approvals
Initial suitability findings for several prominent tribal gaming resource suppliers were approved, including:
-
HCAL, LLC
-
JCM Global
-
Konami Gaming, Inc.
-
PDS Gaming, LLC
Dozens of tribal gaming employees were also approved for key positions at tribal casinos across California, reflecting the Commission’s continued support of tribal gaming operations and the necessary workforce to support it.
Notable Withdrawals and Denials
In two notable cases, requests to withdraw license applications—Josephine Hoang and Jesus Bojorquez—were denied, signaling the Commission’s increased scrutiny and emphasis on applicant accountability.
A Broader Look Ahead
With regulatory reform on the horizon and ongoing efforts to promote responsible gaming, the April 2025 CGCC meeting showcased a mix of routine license management and deeper engagement with emerging compliance issues. As the Commission prepares for the next quarter, the groundwork laid in this session will likely influence policy developments and enforcement trends across California’s gambling sector.
Gambling in the USA
NEW YORK CASINO IN MEXICO WELCOMES CONCEPT AND NEW GAMES FROM ZITRO

The renowned Mexican operator Logrand has installed Zitro’s new CONCEPT cabinets and a selection of its latest games at the New York Casino in Monterrey.
Building on its global success, the CONCEPT cabinet line stands out for its Magic Lighting, immersing players in a synchronized light display, resulting in a unique sensory experience. Furthermore, the cabinet’s large Screen Deck blends comfort with intuitive functionality, optimizing the experience for players and operational teams.
The installation of the CONCEPT cabinets is complemented by the addition of the medieval-themed multi-game Legendary Sword, in which players can double their prizes through unique mechanics with the help of a magic sword.
On the other hand, Fairyland Quest takes players to an enchanted forest where Magic Mushrooms give access to a different bonus each, while a friendly Fairy will give a special bonus that doubles the playing area.
Juan David Baracaldo, Director of Operations and Product, highlighted: “The addition of Zitro’s CONCEPT cabinets is a great step to continue offering unique and high-quality experiences to our players. The unique combination of technology, spectacular graphics, and the experience these cabinets offer will further elevate our casino’s entertainment offering.”
For his part, Johnny Ortiz Viveiros, founder of Zitro, expressed: “We are very excited to strengthen our partnership with Logrand, a strategic partner that shares our vision of providing exceptional gaming experiences. The new CONCEPT cabinets and games like Legendary Sword and Fairyland Quest are just the beginning of what will transform how players enjoy entertainment.”
Gambling in the USA
Sky River Casino Guest Wins Half-million Dollars Playing Progressive Blackjack

Sky River Casino has announced that an Elk Grove resident has won a whopping $511,311 while playing progressive blackjack on March 31, 2025. The Sky River Rewards member hit the big win after playing the table game for less than an hour.
“Our progressive table games and slot machines continue to be really hot here at Sky River Casino. Our players have had an impressive number of life-changing jackpots and our winning streak continues. We look forward to the next big win and welcome adults near and far to visit to explore and enjoy our high-energy atmosphere, lively promotions, exciting gaming, and unparalleled dining experiences,” said Michael J. Facenda, President of Sky River Casino.
The lucky local guest plans to use her winnings to renovate a kitchen and build a house back home.
“Without question, the best part of my job is watching our valued members and guests experience jaw dropping wins like this one. We all share in the incredible excitement that is absolutely contagious and can be felt throughout the casino,” said Charleen Ripley, VP of Casino Operations for Sky River Casino.
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