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Full House Resorts Announces Strong Third Quarter Results
Full House Resorts, Inc. announced results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2021.
On a consolidated basis, revenues in the third quarter of 2021 were $47.2 million, a 12.6% increase from $42.0 million in the prior-year period. Both periods reflect a full quarter of reopened operations, as all of the Company’s properties reopened by June 2020 after closing in March 2020 due to the pandemic. Net income for the third quarter of 2021 was $4.6 million, or $0.13 per diluted common share, reflecting additional interest expense related to the funding of the Company’s Chamonix development project in Cripple Creek, Colorado, and a credit in the prior-year quarter related to warrants that were retired in early 2021. In the prior-year period, net income was $7.7 million, or $0.28 per diluted common share. Adjusted EBITDA(a) in the 2021 third quarter was $13.6 million, an 8.9% increase from $12.5 million in the third quarter of 2020. Growth in the 2021 period was due to improved results from the Company’s Nevada segment and the sale of “free play” that Indiana’s casinos are permitted to transfer to other casino operators within the state, partially offset by the temporary closure of Silver Slipper due to the passage of Hurricane Ida and the impact of wildfires in the communities surrounding Grand Lodge Casino. Results for the third quarter of 2021 also include $1.6 million of revenue related to the Company’s Contracted Sports Wagering segment, compared to $0.7 million in the prior-year period. Currently, five of the Company’s six permitted sports wagering “skins” in Indiana and Colorado are live.
“We had another strong quarter, with revenue and operating income increases despite some weather challenges,” said Daniel R. Lee, President and Chief Executive Officer of Full House Resorts. “Revenues in the third quarter of 2021 increased 12.6%, reflecting the relaxation of pandemic-related restrictions, our sale of ‘free play’ in Indiana (in this year’s third quarter instead of the fourth quarter in prior years), and a continued strong overall performance. Adjusted EBITDA increased to $13.6 million from $12.5 million in the third quarter of 2020.”
Continued Mr. Lee, “At the Silver Slipper, guest visitation remained robust except for a brief downturn as Hurricane Ida made landfall. We had little damage from the hurricane, but it significantly hampered our operations for four days. At Bronco Billy’s, we continue to try and mitigate the impact of Chamonix’s construction on Bronco Billy’s neighboring operations. Despite the loss of on-site parking, Bronco Billy’s continued to perform strongly relative to its average performance over the past decade. Rising Star continues to do well. As noted above, Rising Star benefited in the quarter from the sale of ‘free play,’ whereas prior years had a similar transaction in the fourth quarter. At our Nevada segment, Stockman’s Casino has largely returned to pre-pandemic levels, while Grand Lodge Casino was adversely affected by a low table games hold percentage and smoke from nearby wildfires, particularly over the Labor Day weekend.
“At our Chamonix project in Cripple Creek, we are currently installing footings and structural walls for the hotel tower and are preparing for the start of vertical construction. It is still relatively early in the construction process, so estimates of cost and completion dates still contain substantial uncertainty, but we are in the process of completing the bidding for a substantial portion of the construction budget.
“We also continue to pursue other growth opportunities in Waukegan, Illinois, and Terre Haute, Indiana. In Illinois, we recently presented our proposal to the Illinois Gaming Board for a new destination casino in Waukegan, a northern suburb of Chicago. Similarly, we are scheduled to present our unique proposal to the Indiana Gaming Commission next week for an iconic casino hotel in Terre Haute, approximately one hour west of Indianapolis. The respective gaming commissions have indicated that they intend to select their winning proposals on November 17 (Indiana) and by early January (Illinois). Both new casinos would be named ‘American Place.’
“Our management team at Full House has a long history of developing some of the most iconic casinos in the world. We look forward to the potential of developing both of these unique proposals over the next few years.”
Renderings and other information regarding both proposals is available at www.AmericanPlace.com.
Third Quarter Highlights and Subsequent Events
- Mississippi. The Silver Slipper Casino and Hotel’s operational performance continues to reflect a focus on marketing and labor improvements, as well as the benefit of numerous investments in the property in recent years. Such investments included a substantial renovation of the casino and the buffet, a renovated porte cochere, repainted exterior, new energy-efficient building signage, the Beach Club, the Oyster Bar, and the introduction of on-site sports betting. For the third quarter of 2021, revenues at Silver Slipper increased 7.9% to $21.5 million, reflecting the relaxation of pandemic-related business restrictions during the 2021 period. Adjusted Segment EBITDA was flat at $6.5 million, reflecting the temporary closure of the property due to Hurricane Ida in August 2021.
- Indiana. Rising Star Casino Resort’s revenues were $12.6 million in the third quarter of 2021, an increase from $9.6 million in the third quarter of 2020. Adjusted Segment EBITDA rose to $3.8 million in the third quarter of 2021 from $2.1 million in the prior-year period. The increase was the result of the sale of “free play,” offsetting somewhat higher operating expenses. The state’s casinos are permitted to transfer “free play” to other casino operators within Indiana. Because Indiana has a progressive gaming tax system and Rising Star is one of the smaller casinos in the state, the property has consistently sold its ability to deduct “free play” in computing gaming taxes to operators in higher tax tiers. Such sales resulted in $2.1 million of revenue and income in the third quarter of 2021. Rising Star also sold its “free play” for $2.1 million during 2020, although not until the fourth quarter.
- Colorado. This segment includes Bronco Billy’s Casino and Hotel and, upon its opening, will include Chamonix Casino Hotel. Revenues for this segment were $6.3 million in the third quarter of 2021, a decrease from $7.6 million in the third quarter of 2020. Adjusted Segment EBITDA of $1.5 million in the third quarter of 2021 compares to $3.1 million in the prior-year period. Results in the current period were impacted by the loss of all of the property’s on-site parking due to the construction of Chamonix. To alleviate the lack of on-site parking, the Company introduced complimentary valet parking, as well as a free shuttle service to an off-site parking lot. Also, the prior-year period had a $424,000 benefit from the elimination of point redemption liabilities that accrued under the property’s prior loyalty program.
As discussed above, construction continues on Chamonix Casino Hotel, located adjacent to Bronco Billy’s. When complete, Chamonix will include a new casino, approximately 300 luxury guest rooms and suites, parking garage, meeting and entertainment space, outdoor rooftop pool, spa, and fine-dining restaurant. We are currently installing footings and structural walls for the hotel towers. Vertical construction is expected to commence within the coming weeks. The three principal guestroom towers are anticipated to “top out” between April and August 2022. For detailed renderings of the project and two webcams of the construction underway, please visit www.ChamonixCO.com.
- Nevada. This segment consists of the Grand Lodge Casino, which is located within the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe luxury resort in Incline Village, and Stockman’s Casino, which is located near the Naval Air Station in Fallon. This segment is historically the smallest of the Company’s segments. During the third quarter of 2021, Stockman’s Casino continued to benefit from the relaxation of pandemic-related restrictions, including at the nearby Naval air station. Grand Lodge Casino was adversely affected in the 2021 period by significant wildfires in the region, including a great deal of smoke over the Labor Day holiday weekend. Additionally, Grand Lodge Casino’s results were adversely affected by a table games hold percentage that was 8.4 percentage points lower than the three-year average hold percentage. Revenues for the segment were $5.1 million and $4.1 million for the third quarters of 2021 and 2020, respectively. Adjusted Segment EBITDA was $1.5 million and $1.0 million, respectively.
- Contracted Sports Wagering. This segment consists of the Company’s on-site and online sports wagering “skins” (akin to websites) in Colorado and Indiana. Revenues and Adjusted Segment EBITDA were both $1.6 million in the third quarter of 2021, reflecting the launch of two additional sports wagering skins on April 1 and April 23, 2021. Currently, five of the Company’s six permitted sports wagering skins are operating. For the third quarter of 2020, when only two sports wagering skins were live, revenues and Adjusted Segment EBITDA were $679,000 and $631,000, respectively.
We receive a percentage of defined revenues of each skin, subject to annual minimums. When all six skins are in operation, we should receive a contractual minimum of $7 million per year of annualized revenues, with minimal related expenses. We also received $6 million of “market access fees” when the agreements were signed in 2019. Such fees were capitalized and are being recorded as income over the ten-year lives of the contracts.
- Corporate. Corporate expenses were higher than the prior-year period and consistent with recent quarters, largely due to additional professional fees, a gradual resumption of activities in late 2020 following the closure period, and an increase in accrued bonus compensation, reflecting the Company’s improved operating results.
- Terre Haute Casino Proposal. In September 2021, in response to an application process launched by the Indiana Gaming Commission (“IGC”), the Company submitted a proposal for an extraordinary gaming and entertainment destination for Terre Haute, Indiana. Named American Place, it would be developed on 32 acres of land that the Company currently has under contract. The site is located approximately one hour west of Indianapolis and within 100 miles of Champaign-Urbana and Decatur, Illinois, as well as Lafayette, Indiana. It is highly visible from Interstate 70 and convenient to the I-70/SR 46 interchange.
Full House’s proposed design is unique in several respects. The four-star, 100-room hotel is elevated above an interior greenscape, in a shape resembling a “happy smile.” The hotel appears to float above a fountain that surrounds its base. This design allows a majority of the guest rooms to be located on upper levels and to enjoy extended views. Atop the hotel is a pool deck and restaurant, featuring sushi and robata grill entrees, overlooking the Wabash Valley. Along the busy neighboring freeway, Full House plans to build a large greenhouse, offering a lush interior environment. Within the greenhouse, the project would have two restaurants that offer “outdoor” dining, even in winter, as well as venues for weddings and other group events. The world-class casino would be located between the hotel and the greenhouse and offer approximately 1,000 slot machines, 50 table games, and a state-of-the-art sportsbook. Atop the casino, the Company has planned for a solar energy farm, which would provide green, sustainable energy for a portion of the complex’s electrical needs.
Full House is slated to present, in person, its American Place proposal to the IGC on November 17. The IGC has indicated that it expects to select its favored proposal from the four submittals on that same day. If awarded the gaming license, the Company has proposed to operate a temporary casino during construction of the larger permanent facility, subject to IGC approval. For detailed renderings of the project, please visit www.AmericanPlace.com.
- Waukegan Casino Proposal. In October 2019, the Company submitted a proposal to the Illinois Gaming Board (“IGB”) to develop and operate a casino and entertainment destination in Waukegan, Illinois, also to be named American Place. It would include a world-class casino with a state-of-the-art sports book; a premium boutique hotel comprised of twenty luxurious villas, each ranging from 1,500 to 2,500 square feet with full butler service; a 1,500-seat live entertainment venue; a gourmet restaurant that will rival the finest restaurants in Chicago; additional eateries and bars; and other amenities that will attract gaming and non-gaming patrons from throughout Chicagoland and beyond. A second phase of American Place is expected to include a four-star hotel with 150 rooms.
Full House is one of two finalists, each of which presented the merits of its Waukegan proposal to the IGB in October 2021. The IGB has indicated that it expects to select its favored developer for the Waukegan gaming license by early January 2022. If selected, Full House intends to operate a temporary casino during construction of the larger, more lavish, permanent facility.
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A Decade in iGaming: From Newcomer to a CMO
Wow, time flies! Can’t believe it’s been ten years since stepping into the exhilarating world of online gambling – a field that initially seemed like a short-term stint quickly turned into a new-found passion.
Moving to Malta, and eventually finding a home in Tallinn, I’ve had the privilege to watch the highs and lows as well as the many progressions and transformations. Today, I am proud to form part of the Mr. Gamble team that is ambitiously expanding into new markets, and pushing the boundaries.
From Customer Support to CMO
My journey in iGaming kicked off in Customer Support at Betsson – a leap from my telecom sales management role back in Finland. While this move puzzled my family and friends alike, it was a necessary step. Over the months and years, I worked my way up through various roles including Affiliate Coordinator, Affiliate Manager and Head of Affiliates, learning the various intricate parts of the industry, while at the same time adapting to new technological changes.
One thing is for sure, the iGaming industry is a fast-paced one, and each role has helped me to thrive and adapt to the various changes. Flexibility is key when working in this industry.
Venturing into Entrepreneurship: My Own Affiliate Business
Following many years of corporate experience, I took the leap to start up my own affiliate business with the aim of creating my own business from scratch. Handling everything from SEO and content strategy to fostering brand partnerships and growth strategies gave me an overall view of the affiliate industry’s many complexities. This entrepreneurial journey instilled insight and resilience, especially in terms of the value of the diverse skill sets found within a team.
By 2023, I joined Mr. Gamble as CMO, bringing my own entrepreneurial experience into this company’s growth strategy. Drawing on my background in SEO, content management and brand development and alongside a knowledgeable team, we have successfully strengthened Mr. Gamble’s presence in established markets, while also setting our sites on new markets.
New Markets and New Possibilities
Since the online gambling industry is continually evolving and expanding, it also brings with it a surge in growth when it comes to new and emerging markets. While we have made huge strides in launching Mr. Gambe USA, we are also eyeing promising regions in Asia, Latin America and Africa, where digital adoption and regulations are evolving creating new opportunities.
As we continue to solidify our presence in the US, these emerging markets represent the next frontier.
An Ever-Changing and Evolving Gambling Industry
Over the past decade, the online gambling industry has quickly evolved from a somewhat fragmented field to a high-powered professional space. Conferences and expos, once informal gatherings have become hubs for talent.
Events such as SiGMA, SBC, iGB, NEXT.io and Hiphter Events today celebrate the progression of iGaming, while highlighting the various advances in technology and market inclusivity.
The shift toward hybrid work in recent years has also paved the way for industry shakeups. While digital operations are convenient, the importance of face-to-face meetings and connections remains. In an industry highly reliant and built on personal relationships, meeting in person strengthens partnerships and opens doors to new opportunities.
A Bright Future for Mr. Gamble
As CMO of Mr. Gamble, I along with the team are committed to expanding our brand’s influence, not only in traditional markets, but also in new and emerging ones. iGaming is constantly evolving and our strategies must evolve too, adapting and driving on the windy road to success. This entails adapting to changes in technology, user behaviour and experience, and most importantly navigating regulatory landscapes.
Of course, Google’s frequent algorithm updates keep us our our toes, pushing us to refine our approach to stay competitive and ever more relent.
Reflecting on the last 10 years, I am energised and optimistic for the future. With a talented team and untapped markets in tow, Mr. Gamble is well-prepared for substantial growth and impact. Here is to the journey ahead and to everyone – mentors, peers, and friends who have been part of this rewarding path. The next decade holds great potential, and I look more than forward to what is yet to come.
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MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL SELECTS SPORTRADAR TO TRANSFORM PLAYER TALENT SCOUTING FOR ALL 30 CLUBS
Sportradar today announced a multiyear agreement with Major League Baseball (MLB) to offer unparalleled sports performance analysis of amateur baseball prospects, through its Synergy Coaching and Scouting solution, to the league and its 30 Clubs. This new partnership will revolutionize player talent scouting through Sportradar’s advanced, proprietary technology and highlights Sportradar’s commitment to delivering innovative and game-changing solutions to the league.
Under the agreement, MLB and its 30 Clubs will gain access to an unprecedented depth of player analysis and insights with event coverage expanding significantly, from 3,300 to more than 20,000 games – an over 600% increase. This includes college, international, professional partner leagues and leading amateur leagues, such as the MLB Draft League, the Appalachian League and MLB Develops events, and, for the first time, top high school events.
The Synergy Coaching and Scouting solution is uniquely positioned to address the player evaluation needs of MLB as it leverages Sportradar’s expertise ingesting and transforming millions of data points from video into detailed metrics, actionable insights and dynamic visualizations. This, combined with Sportradar’s AI-powered sports performance technology, enables Synergy to provide unparalleled, in-depth analysis of every player, play and game situation, and equips MLB and Club scouts with the information and insights they need to streamline the evaluation process, guide draft decisions and support the development of future MLB players.
“Sportradar’s cutting-edge technology, alongside our reputation as a trusted partner to leading US sports leagues, is driving the transformation of sports performance analysis,” said Eduard Blonk, Chief Commercial Officer, Sportradar. “Through Synergy we are pleased that we are expanding our relationship with MLB, equipping them with the deep data and insights they need to identify the next generation of players. We are eager to continue bringing innovative solutions to MLB.”
“We are excited to expand our relationship with Sportradar and ensure equal access to the Synergy video and data services for all 30 MLB Clubs. This platform has become a key resource for Clubs in the domestic and international scouting process and we look forward to continuing our work with Sportradar in the coming years,” said John D’Angelo, MLB’s Sr. Vice President of Amateur and Medical Operations.
Financial reports
Commercial Gaming Revenue Growth Continues in Q3 2024, Driving Industry’s 15th Consecutive Quarter of Growth
U.S. commercial gaming revenue reached $17.71 billion in Q3 2024, the industry’s highest-grossing Q3 on record, according to the American Gaming Association’s (AGA) Commercial Gaming Revenue Tracker. This makes Q3 2024 the industry’s 15th consecutive quarter of annual revenue growth, with September marking the 43rd straight month of rising year-over-year commercial gaming revenue.
Through the first nine months of the year, nationwide commercial gaming revenue stands at $53.24 billion, pacing 8.0 percent ahead of 2023 and putting the industry on track for a fourth straight record revenue year.
In Q3 2024, 29 of the 35 commercial gaming jurisdictions operational last year saw increased year-over-year revenue. This growth resulted in an 8.9 percent year-over-year increase in state and local taxes tied directly to gaming revenue, with commercial gaming operators contributing $3.79 billion in taxes across the quarter.
Quarterly revenue from land-based gaming – encompassing casino slots, table games and retail sports betting – totaled $12.56 billion, 0.62 percent lower than Q3 2023. Meanwhile, combined revenue from online sports betting and iGaming totaled $5.14 billion in Q3 2024 as online gaming made up 29.0 percent of commercial gaming revenue, a significantly higher share than in Q3 2023.
Looking at each sector in Q3 2024:
- Traditional Gaming: Traditional brick-and-mortar casino gaming generated quarterly revenue of $12.38 billion, a contraction of 0.9 percent year-over-year.
- Legal Sports Betting: Americans legally wagered $30.3 billion on sports, generating $3.24 billion in quarterly revenue (+42.4% YoY). Recent market launches in Kentucky, Maine, North Carolina and Vermont contributed to this growth.
- iGaming: iGaming generated $2.08 billion in revenue, marking a 30.3 percent year-over-year increase.
“Q3 2024 continued gaming’s momentum from the first half of the year, with online casino and sports betting driving strong growth. At the same time, new brick-and-mortar casino openings bolstered traditional gaming, which still accounts for the bulk of industry revenue,” said AGA Vice President of Research David Forman. “More than a quarter of commercial revenue now regularly comes from online sources, raising the importance of continued sustainable growth with consumers in those states.”
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