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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

Core Points - Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) will release its second quarter 2025 financial results on July 23, 2025, after market close [1] - A conference call to discuss the quarterly results will take place on July 24, 2025, at 9 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 July 24, 2025 [2] - A news release with financial and statistical information will be accessible on CDI'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 racing, online wagering, and regional casino gaming [4]

Core Insights - Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) set new all-time records for wagering during the Kentucky Derby Day program and Derby Week, indicating strong growth in the betting segment [3][4][5] Wagering Records - Total wagering on Kentucky Derby Day reached $349.0 million, surpassing last year's record of $320.5 million [3] - Wagering on the Kentucky Derby race alone hit a record of $234.4 million, up from $210.7 million last year [3] - All-sources handle for Derby Week increased to $473.9 million, exceeding last year's $446.6 million [3] Performance of TwinSpires - TwinSpires, the official betting partner, recorded a new high of $108.0 million in wagering for the Kentucky Derby Day program, compared to $92.1 million last year [4] - TwinSpires' handle for the Kentucky Derby race was $73.0 million, up from $60.9 million in the previous year [4] Company Financial Expectations - CDI anticipates that Adjusted EBITDA for Derby Week will rank among the top two results in the company's history, although it is expected to be $2 to $4 million lower than last year's record [5] - The company expressed optimism about future growth following the successful 151st running of the Kentucky Derby [6] Company Overview - CDI has been a leader in entertainment experiences for over 150 years, primarily through the Kentucky Derby and has expanded into various gaming and wagering sectors [8]

Core Insights - Churchill Downs Inc. has paused a nearly $1 billion revamp of its racetrack facilities due to rising uncertainty surrounding construction costs influenced by tariffs and macroeconomic conditions [5][9][10] Group 1: Planned Projects - The company had initially planned to invest up to $920 million in capital projects to enhance and expand the Kentucky Derby racetrack, including the installation of 13,300 seats and new premium hospitality experiences [1][2] - Additional plans included constructing new permanent structures in the infield for premium ticket holders and general admission areas [4] Group 2: Economic Factors - The decision to halt the projects was attributed to significant inflation risks and unquantifiable cost increases in materials due to tariffs imposed by the U.S. government [7][9] - CEO Bill Carstanjen indicated that the evolving economic landscape would be assessed to determine the timing and sequencing of the multi-year projects [9][10] Group 3: Ongoing Investments - Despite the pause on the major revamp, Churchill Downs announced smaller renovations costing between $25 million to $30 million for existing facilities like the Finish Line suites and Trophy Room [11] - The company remains committed to long-term growth of the Kentucky Derby through prudent capital investments [10] Group 4: Economic Impact - The Kentucky Derby significantly contributes to the local economy, with an estimated economic impact of $400 million from last year's race [13]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported record first quarter net revenue of $643 million and adjusted EBITDA of $245 million, reflecting strong performance despite various challenges [11][12] - The live and historical racing segment increased revenue by nearly $28 million or 11% compared to the prior year quarter [40] - The company generated $234 million or $3.15 per share of free cash flow in the first quarter [47] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The live and historical racing segment delivered record first quarter revenue and adjusted EBITDA, primarily due to the opening of new venues [39][40] - The Kentucky HRM properties increased adjusted EBITDA by $3.1 million or 6% compared to the prior year quarter [41] - The Virginia HRM properties saw a decrease in adjusted EBITDA by $2.2 million or 3% compared to the prior year quarter, impacted by weather and competition [41][43] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Northern Virginia HRM venues collectively contributed nearly $10 million of adjusted EBITDA during the first quarter, up nearly $4 million from the prior year quarter [41] - The company experienced meaningful sequential growth in gross gaming revenues each month of the first quarter [26] - The Terre Haute Casino Resort in Indiana delivered nearly $12 million of adjusted EBITDA in the first quarter, performing well compared to regional gaming properties [46] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is committed to growing the Kentucky Derby through prudent timing of capital investments, pausing a $900 million multiyear project to reassess economic conditions [16][17] - Smaller projects at Churchill Downs Racetrack, costing approximately $25 to $30 million, are expected to deliver strong shareholder returns [19][20] - The company plans to implement electronic table games in existing HRM locations by the end of 2025, focusing on regulatory and taxation challenges [34][78] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged increased economic uncertainty and inflation risks due to tariffs, impacting cost assessments for projects [16][17] - The leadership team expressed confidence in navigating economic cycles and maintaining growth through strategic investments [37][51] - Management remains optimistic about the upcoming Kentucky Derby, expecting results comparable to last year's record performance [35][131] Other Important Information - The company has reduced its 2025 maintenance capital projection by $10 million to $90 to $100 million [48] - A new common stock repurchase program of up to $500 million was approved, with nearly 800,000 shares repurchased in the first quarter [49][50] - The bank covenant net leverage was 4.0 times at the end of the first quarter, expected to remain stable throughout the year [50] Q&A Session Summary Question: About softness in the quarter and its acceleration - Management noted hesitancy in the lower-tiered play due to macroeconomic volatility, but consistent performance in higher-tiered segments [56][58] Question: Impact on international visitation for Derby 151 - No material change in international visitation was observed, with expectations for strong attendance [62][64] Question: Long-term growth for the Derby and capital plans - Management indicated that the NBC contract will enhance growth, with expectations for pricing power in new areas introduced [70][72] Question: Implementation of electronic table games and tax rates - The rollout will be cautious due to regulatory and taxation challenges, with a focus on gradual acceptance [78] Question: Growth opportunities at existing properties amid macro uncertainty - Management emphasized organic growth in Kentucky properties and ongoing projects in Virginia, with a focus on managing costs [91][92] Question: Trends in Virginia for existing assets - Management expressed optimism about Virginia's market potential, despite recent challenges [100][101] Question: Consumer segment trends and performance - Management highlighted the importance of customer data for managing performance, particularly in less mature properties [106][108] Question: Capital allocation and buybacks - Management indicated that capital allocation decisions will be based on where the best returns can be achieved, including potential buybacks [112][114] Question: Changes for the Derby next year - Management plans to evaluate customer feedback and adjust offerings based on data collected post-Derby [120][122] Question: Comparability of Derby performance this year versus last year - Management acknowledged macroeconomic uncertainties but remains confident in strong demand for the event [130][131]

Core Points - Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) announced renovations for the Finish Line Suites and The Mansion at Churchill Downs Racetrack, expected to be completed by April 2026 [1][3] - CDI has decided to pause the development of The Skye, Conservatory, and Infield projects due to uncertainties in construction costs and macro-economic conditions [1][4] - The renovations will enhance the existing 15 suites, increasing capacity to 750 guests, and will also improve the Trophy Room with updated finishes and a new feature bar [2][3] Financial Aspects - CDI plans to invest approximately $25-30 million in the renovation projects for the Finish Line Suites and The Mansion [3] Strategic Decisions - The decision to pause the Skye Terrace and Infield projects was made to maintain financial discipline in light of recent economic changes, despite the desire to meet fan expectations [4] - CDI remains committed to long-term growth and providing unique experiences for guests while ensuring best-in-class shareholder returns [4] Company Background - CDI has been creating entertainment experiences for over 150 years, with a focus on live and historical racing, online wagering, and regional casino gaming properties [7]