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Churchill Downs rporated(CHDN) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-23 13:02
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved record net revenue and record adjusted EBITDA for the third quarter of 2025, with the live and historical racing segment also reaching record levels [5][22] - The live and historical racing segment grew revenue by 21% and adjusted EBITDA by 25% compared to the prior year quarter, marking the 21st consecutive quarter of record growth for this segment [22] - Free cash flow generated was $166 million, or $2.34 per share, representing a 13% increase from the prior year quarter [25][26] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The regional gaming properties performed well, with adjusted EBITDA increasing over $3 million, and margins up 1.1 points compared to the prior year quarter [25] - The Rose gaming venue in Virginia showed significant growth, with gaming revenues increasing and a strong customer database being built [14][15] - The Exacta business benefited from the growth of HRM operations in Kentucky and Virginia, contributing to record adjusted EBITDA for the Wagering Services and Solutions segment [24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is expanding its international reach with the addition of three new points races in Dubai and Saudi Arabia, enhancing the quality of the international pathway to the Kentucky Derby [10] - Virginia has proven to be a strong investment environment, with 4,875 HRMs deployed and continued growth in gaming revenue [15][16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on five key growth catalysts for the Kentucky Derby, including ticketing revenue, broadcast rights, wagering, sponsorships, and selective renovations [7][11] - A significant investment of $280 to $300 million is planned for the construction of a new venue called Victory Run, aimed at enhancing the guest experience during Derby Week [12][13] - The company is committed to maintaining a disciplined capital management strategy while balancing share repurchases and project investments [27][40] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the long-term growth potential of the Kentucky Derby and HRM properties, citing strong customer engagement and market expansion [20][22] - The company anticipates continued improvement in margins and performance as it drives better awareness and customer engagement in its venues [61] - Management acknowledged the challenges posed by illegal gaming machines in Virginia but noted strong enforcement and progress in addressing these issues [70][72] Other Important Information - The Board of Directors approved a 7% increase in dividends, marking the 15th consecutive year of increased dividends per share [27] - The company expects to spend $200 to $240 million on project capital in 2025, with a focus on strategic investments in its flagship assets [26][28] Q&A Session Summary Question: ROI targets for Victory Run - The company targets a 20% unlevered IRR focused on year three for the Victory Run project [32] Question: Prospective opportunity for ETGs - Management sees electronic table games as an important opportunity but is cautious about predictions due to regulatory factors [36][37] Question: Capital allocation and leverage - The company is committed to reducing leverage below 4 times next year while balancing share repurchases and capital investments [40] Question: Benefits of owning properties outright - Owning real estate provides stability and predictability, which management believes is not fully recognized in the market [42][43] Question: M&A environment - There has been a recent pickup in M&A activity, and the company remains flexible in its approach to acquisitions [46][48] Question: Emerging landscape of prediction markets - The company plans to approach prediction market operators to explain the legal framework governing horse racing wagering [66][67] Question: Illegal machines in Virginia - Management reported strong enforcement against illegal machines and believes the situation is under control [70][72]
Churchill Downs rporated(CHDN) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-23 13:02
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported record net revenue and record adjusted EBITDA for the third quarter of 2025, with the live and historical racing segment also achieving record net revenue and adjusted EBITDA, growing revenue by 21% and adjusted EBITDA by 25% compared to the prior year quarter [5][22][20] - Free cash flow generated was $166 million, or $2.34 per share, representing a 13% increase from the prior year quarter [25][26] - The bank covenant net leverage was reported at 4.1x, with expectations to remain at this level by year-end and drop below 4x in 2026 [28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The live and historical racing segment achieved its 21st consecutive quarter of record growth in revenue and adjusted EBITDA [22] - The regional gaming properties performed well, with adjusted EBITDA increasing over $3 million, and margins up 1.1 points compared to the prior year quarter [25] - The Exacta business saw growth driven by the expansion of HRM operations in Kentucky and Virginia, as well as third-party relationships [18][24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is expanding its HRM entertainment venues, with the eighth venue set to open in Calvert City in Q1 2026, and significant growth in Virginia's gaming revenues [14][15] - The Rose venue in Virginia showed strong growth, with gaming revenues increasing and a strong customer database being built [15][22] - The company completed the acquisition of a 90% interest in the Casino Salem project in New Hampshire, which is expected to enhance its market presence [16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company outlined five key growth catalysts for the Kentucky Derby, including ticketing revenue, broadcast rights, wagering, sponsorships, and selective renovations [7][9][11] - A significant investment of $280 million-$300 million is planned for the construction of a new venue called Victory Run, aimed at enhancing customer experience [12][13] - The company is focused on maintaining a disciplined capital allocation strategy while balancing share repurchases and project investments [40][27] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the growth potential of the Kentucky Derby and HRM properties, citing strong customer engagement and market expansion [20][22] - The company is optimistic about the future of electronic table games (ETGs) as a growth opportunity, although regulatory approvals are still pending [36][37] - Management noted that the current economic environment, including government shutdown discussions, has not significantly impacted operations [60] Other Important Information - The Board of Directors approved a 7% increase in dividends, marking the 15th consecutive year of increased dividends per share [27] - The company anticipates a favorable impact on free cash flow due to recent tax revisions, estimating a reduction in cash tax payments of $50 million-$60 million in both 2025 and 2026 [28] Q&A Session Summary Question: ROI targets for Victory Run - The company targets a 20% unlevered IRR focused on year three for the Victory Run project [32] Question: Prospective opportunity for ETGs - Management acknowledged the importance of ETGs and is focused on regulatory approval, viewing it as a significant opportunity [36][37] Question: Capital allocation strategy - The company is committed to reducing leverage below 4x next year while balancing share repurchases and capital investments [40] Question: Benefits of owning properties outright - Owning real estate provides stability and predictability, which management believes is not fully recognized in the market [42][43] Question: M&A environment - Management noted a recent pickup in M&A activity and remains flexible in pursuing opportunities [46][48] Question: The Rose's margin ramp and government shutdown impact - Management is optimistic about The Rose's growth and does not foresee significant impact from the government shutdown discussions [60] Question: Illegal gaming machines in Virginia - Management reported strong enforcement against illegal machines and believes it has not materially affected their business [70][72]
Churchill Downs rporated(CHDN) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-23 13:00
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved record net revenue and record adjusted EBITDA in Q3 2025, with the Live and Historical Racing segment also reporting record figures [8][28] - The Live and Historical Racing segment grew revenue by 21% and adjusted EBITDA by 25% compared to the prior year quarter, marking the twenty-first consecutive quarter of record growth [29] - Free cash flow generated was $166 million or $2.34 per share, up 13% from the prior year quarter, with a free cash flow yield of approximately 10% [33][34] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Wagering Services and Solutions segment delivered record adjusted EBITDA driven by the growth of the Xacta business, benefiting from Kentucky and Virginia properties [32] - Regional gaming properties performed well, with adjusted EBITDA for wholly owned gaming properties increasing over $3 million, excluding the impact of removing HRMs from Louisiana operations [32] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is expanding its HRM operations in Kentucky and Virginia, with significant growth in gross gaming revenues and customer databases [19][20] - The Virginia market showed strong performance, with GGR per unit per day increasing every month of Q3 2025 [30] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to invest $280 million to $300 million in a new structure called Victory Run, aimed at enhancing the guest experience during Derby Week [15] - Five key growth catalysts for the Kentucky Derby were identified: ticketing revenue, broadcast rates, wagering, sponsorships, and selective renovations [10][14][16] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the long-term growth potential of the Kentucky Derby and HRM properties, emphasizing the importance of strategic investments [26][37] - The company is focused on maintaining a disciplined capital allocation strategy while aiming to reduce leverage below four times by 2026 [35][36] Other Important Information - The company announced a 7% increase in dividends, marking the fifteenth consecutive year of increased dividends per share [35] - The federal tax bill signed on July 4 is expected to improve free cash flow through lower cash tax payments [36] Q&A Session Summary Question: ROI targets for Victory Run - The company targets a 20% unlevered IRR, focusing on achieving this within three years [41] Question: Prospective opportunity for ETGs - Management acknowledged the importance of electronic table games as a growth opportunity but noted the need for regulatory progress [45][47] Question: Capital allocation strategy - The company is committed to balancing share repurchases with capital investments, aiming to reduce leverage while maintaining strategic growth [50][51] Question: Benefits of owning properties outright - Owning real estate provides stability and predictability, which management believes is not fully recognized in the market [53][54] Question: M&A environment - There has been a recent pickup in M&A activity, and the company remains opportunistic in both acquisitions and sales [57][59] Question: Virginia illegal machines enforcement - Management reported strong enforcement against illegal machines but acknowledged ongoing challenges, stating it has not significantly impacted business [90][92]
Churchill Downs rporated(CHDN) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-23 13:00
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved record net revenue and record adjusted EBITDA for Q3 2025, with the live and historical racing segment also reaching record levels [5][21] - The live and historical racing segment grew revenue by 21% and adjusted EBITDA by 25% compared to the prior year quarter, marking the 21st consecutive quarter of record growth for this segment [21][24] - Free cash flow generated was $166 million, or $2.34 per share, representing a 13% increase from the prior year quarter [25][27] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The wagering services and solutions segment delivered record adjusted EBITDA driven by the growth of the Exacta business [24] - The regional gaming properties performed well, with adjusted EBITDA increasing over $3 million, and margins up 1.1 points compared to the prior year quarter [24] - Virginia's HRM properties generated a combined 51% margin during the quarter, which is considered best in class [23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is expanding its HRM operations in Kentucky and Virginia, with significant growth in customer databases and gaming revenues [14][15] - The Rose venue in Virginia showed meaningful growth in gaming revenues, with increased visitation frequency [15][22] - The company completed the acquisition of a 90% interest in the Casino Salem project in New Hampshire, which is expected to enhance its market presence [16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company outlined five key growth catalysts for the Kentucky Derby, including ticketing revenue, broadcast rights, wagering, sponsorships, and selective renovations [6][11] - A significant investment of $280 to $300 million is planned for the construction of a new venue called Victory Run, aimed at enhancing customer experience [12][13] - The company is focused on maintaining a disciplined capital management strategy while balancing share repurchases and project investments [39][26] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the long-term growth potential of the Kentucky Derby and HRM properties, citing strong customer engagement and market expansion [19][27] - The company anticipates continued improvement in margins and performance as it drives awareness and customer engagement in its venues [58] - Management acknowledged the challenges posed by illegal gaming machines in Virginia but noted that enforcement has been strong and is not currently a major concern [70] Other Important Information - The Board of Directors approved a 7% increase in dividends, marking the 15th consecutive year of increased dividends per share [26] - The company expects to benefit from favorable cash taxes due to recent federal tax revisions, estimating a reduction in cash tax payments of $50 to $60 million in both 2025 and 2026 [27] Q&A Session Summary Question: ROI targets for Victory Run - The company targets a 20% unlevered IRR focused on year three, emphasizing the time needed to introduce new assets and generate word of mouth [32] Question: Prospective opportunity for ETGs - Management highlighted that electronic table games represent an important opportunity, but emphasized the need for regulatory approval [35][36] Question: Capital allocation and leverage - The company is committed to reducing leverage below 4 times next year while balancing share repurchases and capital investments [39] Question: Benefits of owning properties outright - Owning real estate provides stability and predictability, which management believes is not fully recognized in the market [41][42] Question: M&A environment - Management noted a recent pickup in M&A activity and expressed interest in being opportunistic in acquisitions [44][46] Question: Illegal machines in Virginia - Management acknowledged ongoing enforcement issues but stated that they do not currently pose a significant concern for business operations [70]
Churchill Downs Incorporated 2025 Third Quarter Financial Results Conference Call Invitation
Globenewswire· 2025-09-15 21:30
Core Points - Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) will release its third quarter 2025 financial results after market close on October 22, 2025 [1] - A conference call to discuss the quarterly results will take place on October 23, 2025, at 8 a.m. ET [1] - Investors can access the call via an online webcast or by registering for a teleconference [2] - An online replay of the call will be available by noon ET on October 23, 2025 [2] - A news release with financial and statistical information will be accessible on the company's website [3] Company Overview - Churchill Downs Incorporated has been providing entertainment experiences for over 150 years, starting with the Kentucky Derby [4] - The company is headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, and has expanded through acquisitions and operations in live and historical racing, online wagering, and regional casino gaming [4]
Churchill Downs rporated(CHDN) - 2025 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-07-24 14:02
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported all-time record net revenue of $934 million and adjusted EBITDA of $451 million for the second quarter of 2025, marking the fifth consecutive second quarter of record results [8][29] - Adjusted EBITDA for the Live and Historical Racing segment grew by $17 million or 6% compared to the prior year, driven primarily by HRM growth in Kentucky and Virginia [30] - The company generated $455 million or $6.29 per share of free cash flow in the first half of the year, with a reduction in maintenance capital projection by $10 million to $80 million to $90 million [35][36] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Churchill Downs Racetrack adjusted EBITDA was down $1 million, less than 1%, due to a high prior year comparison from the 150th Kentucky Derby [30] - All HRM properties in Kentucky delivered growth in the second quarter, with strong performance from Northern Kentucky and Louisville venues [31] - The Exacta business contributed over $3 million to adjusted EBITDA growth from third-party customers and HRM properties [32] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Wagering on the Derby race increased by 11% over last year's all-time high, with Derby Day wagering up 9% and Derby Week wagering rising 6% [15] - Virginia properties collectively delivered over $8 million of growth compared to the prior year, despite a higher handle tax rate [31] - The company expects to close the transaction for the Casino Salem project in New Hampshire in the third quarter, targeting a state-of-the-art gaming and entertainment destination [23] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to grow Derby Week through ticketing revenue, broadcast rights, wagering, sponsorships, and selective renovations [10][18] - A new seven-year contract with NBC is expected to provide a $10 million increase in adjusted EBITDA for 2026 [13] - Strategic investments in capital improvements are planned to enhance guest experiences and broaden appeal [19][20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the growth potential in Virginia and Kentucky, with a strong focus on building customer relationships and brand awareness [21][92] - The company anticipates generating significant growth for Derby Week in 2026 based on various catalysts [20] - Management highlighted the importance of international marketing efforts to enhance the global presence of the Kentucky Derby [50] Other Important Information - The company announced a new common stock repurchase program of up to $500 million, reflecting confidence in future growth [36] - The federal tax bill is expected to reduce cash taxes by $50 million to $60 million in 2025, with similar benefits anticipated for 2026 [37][56] Q&A Session Summary Question: Expectations around pricing at the Starting Gate Pavilion - Management expects increased demand and pricing for the Starting Gate Pavilion due to positive word-of-mouth from last year's introduction [40] Question: Discussion on the New Hampshire market - Management indicated that the Salem location is strategically positioned to tap into both New Hampshire and Massachusetts markets, with a strong demographic outlook [44] Question: International attendance and marketing for the Derby - Management noted that thoroughbred racing is a global sport, and efforts are underway to build international connections and sponsorships [50] Question: Impact of the federal tax bill on future cash flow - Management expects similar cash tax savings for 2026 as in 2025, with a focus on strategic capital management and shareholder returns [56][58] Question: Growth potential for HRM properties in Kentucky and Virginia - Management believes there is substantial runway for growth in both states, with strong metrics supporting continued expansion [61] Question: Strategies for driving visitation to The Rose - Management emphasized the importance of building brand awareness and customer relationships in the Northern Virginia market [90]
Churchill Downs rporated(CHDN) - 2025 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-07-24 14:00
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported all-time record net revenue of $934 million and adjusted EBITDA of $451 million for the second quarter of 2025, marking the fifth consecutive second quarter of record results [6][26] - Adjusted EBITDA for the Live and Historical Racing segment grew by $17 million or 6% compared to the prior year quarter, driven primarily by HRM growth in Kentucky and Virginia [27][29] - The company generated $455 million or $6.29 per share of free cash flow in the first half of the year, with a reduction in 2025 maintenance capital projection by $10 million to $80 million to $90 million [32][35] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Churchill Downs Racetrack experienced a slight decline in adjusted EBITDA by $1 million, less than 1%, due to a high prior year comparison from the 150th Kentucky Derby [27] - All HRM properties in Kentucky delivered growth in the second quarter, with particularly strong performance from Northern Kentucky and Louisville venues [28] - The Exacta business contributed over $3 million to adjusted EBITDA growth from both third-party customers and HRM properties [29] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Average viewership for the Kentucky Derby broadcast reached nearly 18 million, a 6% increase over 2024, with peak viewership climbing to almost 22 million, up 8% from last year [10] - Social media impressions during Derby Week totaled over 285 million, a 67% increase from 2024 [11] - Wagering on the Derby race was up 11% over last year's all-time high, with Derby Day wagering increasing by 9% [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to grow Derby Week through ticketing revenue, broadcast rights, wagering, sponsorships, and selective renovations [8][15] - A new seven-year contract with NBC will provide a $10 million increase in adjusted EBITDA for 2026, with prime-time coverage for the Kentucky Oaks race expected to enhance visibility and engagement [11][12] - Strategic investments in renovations and expansions at Churchill Downs Racetrack are aimed at elevating guest experiences and broadening appeal [16][18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about continued growth in Derby Week driven by ticket revenue, strategic investments, and increased wagering [18][24] - The company is focused on building brand awareness and customer relationships in new markets, particularly in Virginia and New Hampshire [19][20] - Management highlighted the importance of capital management and disciplined allocation to support long-term growth [32][35] Other Important Information - The company is targeting to close the acquisition of 90% of the Casino Salem project in New Hampshire in the third quarter, with plans for a state-of-the-art gaming and entertainment destination [21] - The company has retained rights to the associated HRM license in Salem and is evaluating alternative uses for a second HRM license [22] - The company is working on implementing HRM-based electronic table games and has developed a new HRM roulette product [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: Expectations around pricing at the Starting Gate Pavilion - Management expects increased demand and pricing for the Starting Gate Pavilion due to positive reviews and word-of-mouth from last year [38] Question: Discussion around the New Hampshire market - Management indicated that further details will be shared post-transaction closure, emphasizing the strong market demographics and location advantages [41][44] Question: International attendance and marketing for the Derby - Management noted that thoroughbred racing is a global game and emphasized ongoing efforts to build international connections and sponsorships [49][50] Question: Federal tax bill impact on cash flow and capital allocation - Management expects similar cash tax savings for 2026 as in 2025, with a focus on strategic investments and share repurchases when stock value is not reflective of long-term potential [55][56] Question: Growth potential in Kentucky and Virginia HRM markets - Management believes there is substantial runway for growth in both states, with strong metrics supporting ongoing optimism [59] Question: Impact of prediction markets on horse racing - Management does not see prediction markets as a significant risk due to the nature of pari-mutuel wagering and existing legal protections [64][66] Question: Future M&A opportunities in New Hampshire - Management is focused on executing the Salem project but is open to evaluating future opportunities in the region [68] Question: Strategic goals for the Oaks schedule change - The change aims to enhance national visibility for the Oaks and drive attendance and wagering leading into the Derby [72][74] Question: Plans for the area between the First Turn and Sky Terrace - Management confirmed that this area will not disrupt the 2026 Derby and will be detailed in future communications [80] Question: Sponsorship relationships and growth - Management emphasized a strategic approach to sponsorships, focusing on building win-win partnerships and increasing international interest [86]
For First Time Ever, NBC Sports to Present Kentucky Oaks in Primetime – Friday, May 1, 2026, on NBC and Peacock
Globenewswire· 2025-07-24 12:30
Core Points - NBC Sports will present the Kentucky Oaks in primetime for the first time on May 1, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock, enhancing the event's visibility and audience reach [2][3] - The Kentucky Derby, America's oldest major sporting event, will take place on May 2, 2026, and the previous year's event was the most-watched since 1989, peaking at 21.8 million viewers [3] - Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) has extended its partnership with NBC Sports, making NBC the longest-running broadcaster of the Kentucky Derby, covering 32 editions from 2001 to 2032 [4] Company Overview - Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) has been creating entertainment experiences for over 150 years, with a focus on the Kentucky Derby and expansion into live racing, online wagering, and casino gaming [5]
Churchill Downs Incorporated Announces New $500 Million Share Repurchase Program
Globenewswire· 2025-07-23 20:05
Company Announcement - Churchill Downs Incorporated ("CDI") announced a new $500 million share repurchase program, replacing the previous $500 million program authorized in March 2025 [1] - The new program allows for share repurchases at management's discretion, either in the open market or through privately negotiated transactions, and has no time limit [1] Company Background - CDI has been in operation for over 150 years, with its most iconic asset being the Kentucky Derby [2] - The company is headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, and has expanded through acquisitions and the operation of live and historical racing venues, online wagering businesses, and regional casino gaming properties [2]
Churchill Downs Incorporated Reports 2025 Second Quarter Results
GlobeNewswire News Room· 2025-07-23 20:01
Company Highlights - Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) reported record net revenue of $934.4 million for Q2 2025, an increase of $43.7 million or 5% compared to Q2 2024 [6] - Net income attributable to CDI was $216.9 million, up $7.6 million or 4% year-over-year [6] - Diluted earnings per share (EPS) increased to $2.99 from $2.79 in the prior year [6] - Adjusted EBITDA reached an all-time high of $450.9 million, up $6.1 million or 1% from the previous year [6] Segment Results Live and Historical Racing - Revenue for this segment was $540.9 million in Q2 2025, up from $490.2 million in Q2 2024, reflecting a $50.7 million increase [5] - Adjusted EBITDA for Live and Historical Racing increased to $296.5 million from $279.2 million [5] Wagering Services and Solutions - Revenue increased to $168.4 million in Q2 2025 from $159.9 million in Q2 2024, a rise of $8.5 million [9] - Adjusted EBITDA for this segment rose to $48.0 million from $46.2 million [9] Gaming - Revenue decreased to $266.3 million in Q2 2025 from $274.4 million in Q2 2024, a decline of $8.1 million [11] - Adjusted EBITDA for Gaming fell to $127.3 million from $140.7 million [11] All Other - Revenue increased to $2.3 million in Q2 2025 from $1.9 million in Q2 2024 [13] - Adjusted EBITDA improved slightly to -$20.9 million from -$21.3 million [13] Capital Management - The company repurchased 2,565,964 shares at a total cost of $250.4 million during Q2 2025 [14] - As of June 30, 2025, approximately $184.2 million of repurchase authority remained under the 2025 Stock Repurchase Program [14] Subsequent Events - CDI announced the acquisition of 90% of Casino Salem in New Hampshire for $180 million, which will include the development of a charitable gaming and entertainment destination [16] - A new $500 million stock repurchase program was approved by the Board of Directors on July 22, 2025 [17] Financial Position - As of June 30, 2025, total assets were $7,375.7 million, up from $7,275.9 million at the end of 2024 [33] - Total liabilities increased to $6,311.6 million from $6,172.6 million [33]