Canterbury Park (US:CPHC) ZACKSยท2025-05-15 17:51Core Viewpoint - Canterbury Park Holding Corporation (CPHC) experienced a decline in financial performance for Q1 2025, with total net revenues falling by 6.8% year-over-year, primarily due to decreased Casino revenues and increased competition in the market [2][4][7]. Financial Performance - Total net revenues for Q1 2025 were $13.1 million, down from $14.1 million in Q1 2024, reflecting broad-based softness across key business segments [2]. - Casino revenues, the main income driver, decreased by 8.6% to $9.2 million [2]. - Pari-mutuel revenues fell by 8.2% to $1.08 million, while food and beverage revenues decreased by 5.9% to $1.62 million [3]. - Other revenues increased by 9.3% to $1.25 million, driven by higher admission revenues from large-scale special events [3]. Profitability Metrics - Net income turned to a loss of $299,000, or 6 cents per diluted share, compared to a profit of $998,000, or 20 cents per diluted share, in the prior-year period [4]. - Adjusted EBITDA fell by 39.6% to $1.94 million from $3.21 million a year earlier [4]. - EBITDA, excluding interest, tax, depreciation, and amortization, dropped sharply to $8,000 from over $1.76 million in the prior-year quarter, indicating significant margin pressure [5]. Operating Expenses - Operating expenses increased by 1.3% year-over-year to $12.5 million, driven by higher payroll expenses and increased property taxes and marketing expenses [6]. - Cost pressures were exacerbated by annual wage increases and state-mandated minimum wage hikes [6]. Management Insights - CEO Randy Sampson noted increased competition in the Casino segment as a primary factor for revenue decline and emphasized the need for a stronger marketing strategy [7]. - The company is investing in long-term projects, including the Canterbury Commons development, which is expected to drive future economic value [8]. Revenue Influences - The decline in Casino revenues was attributed to reduced wagering activity and a lower average collection rate due to competitive pressures [9]. - Pari-mutuel revenues were impacted by fewer race days at other tracks, affecting simulcast betting volume [10]. Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in future performance driven by event-driven revenue expansion, operational efficiencies, and ongoing real estate development [12]. - The company anticipates benefits from tax increment financing receivables and the completion of its barn relocation initiative by mid-2025 [12]. Development Initiatives - The Canterbury Commons real estate development is progressing, with Phase II of the Triple Crown Residences 95% leased and new commercial spaces opening [13][14]. - A new 16,000-square-foot entertainment venue is set to open in June 2025, and additional development land has been unlocked for future projects [15].