Core Insights - Major League Soccer (MLS) will transition all its matches to Apple TV starting in the 2026 season, marking a significant shift in both the league's and Apple's media strategy [1][2] - The previous separate subscription service, Season Pass, will be discontinued as part of this move [1][2] Group 1: Media Rights Deal - Apple and MLS signed a 10-year media rights deal in 2022, making Apple the exclusive global home for MLS [2] - Initially, Apple launched Season Pass as a separate subscription for MLS games rather than integrating them into its main streaming service [2][3] Group 2: Season Pass Performance - Season Pass, launched in 2023, costs $14.99 per month, compared to $12.99 for a standard Apple TV subscription [3] - MLS Deputy Commissioner Gary Stevenson noted that the concept of having all matches available in one place was well-received, indicating positive initial reactions to Season Pass [3][4] Group 3: Strategic Shift to Apple TV - Conversations about moving MLS games to Apple TV began as the platform grew, with both parties expressing enthusiasm for the transition [4] - The focus of the deal has been on improving distribution and accessibility for fans rather than extensive renegotiation of terms [5] Group 4: Broader Sports Strategy - Apple has been actively adding sports content to its platform, including a recent five-year exclusive deal with Formula 1 for $140 million annually [6] - The fragmentation of sports viewing has led to a need for a more unified subscription model, as highlighted by Apple Senior Vice President Eddy Cue [7] Group 5: Growth of Soccer in the U.S. - MLS has seen increased popularity, particularly with the arrival of global superstar Lionel Messi at Inter Miami CF [10][11] - The league aims to capitalize on the growing interest in soccer in the U.S., especially with the upcoming World Cup in North America [10]

Core Insights - Baron Focused Growth Fund reported a 4.83% appreciation in Q3 2025, underperforming the Russell 2500 Growth Index's 10.73% gain due to economic growth slowdown concerns affecting Consumer Discretionary stocks [1] - Competitive pressures have negatively impacted the valuations of some holdings within the fund [1] Company Analysis: Vail Resorts, Inc. (NYSE:MTN) - Vail Resorts, Inc. experienced a one-month return of -8.24% and a 52-week loss of 21.15%, with a market capitalization of $5.102 billion as of November 4, 2025 [2] - The stock declined 4.7% in Q3 2025, contributing to an 18 basis points detriment to the fund's performance, primarily due to concerns over slowing visitation levels and stagnant season pass sales [3] - In response to these challenges, Vail Resorts is refining its marketing strategy, investing in new media channels, and narrowing the pricing gap between lift tickets and season passes to boost pass sales [3] - Consumer sentiment towards Vail's pass products is improving, and the company maintains strong margins and cash flow, supporting share repurchases and a 6% dividend yield [3] - The stock is viewed as significantly undervalued compared to its historical valuation, with expectations of growth reacceleration in the coming years [3] Hedge Fund Interest - Vail Resorts, Inc. was held by 33 hedge fund portfolios at the end of Q2 2025, a slight decrease from 35 in the previous quarter, indicating a moderate level of interest among hedge funds [4] - Despite its potential, certain AI stocks are considered to offer greater upside potential and lower downside risk compared to Vail Resorts [4]

Core Insights - Vail Resorts, Inc. is set to report its fourth-quarter fiscal 2025 results on September 29, with adjusted earnings having previously beaten estimates by 5.4% in the last quarter [1][8] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the upcoming quarter indicates a loss per share of $4.78, a slight improvement from $4.80, while net revenues are expected to rise by 1.7% to $270 million compared to $265.4 million in the prior year [2][8] Revenue and Performance Factors - The anticipated top-line performance for Vail Resorts in Q4 is expected to be bolstered by the strength of its Season Pass program, which is central to its growth strategy [3] - The company is likely to see solid unit growth in Epic Day Pass products, driven by renewing pass holders and increased interest from lower-frequency skiers, particularly with the introduction of the Epic Australia four-day pass [3] - Mountain net revenues are projected to grow by 4.2% year over year to $183.3 million, while Lodging revenues are expected to decline by 1.7% to $87.9 million [4] Expense and Margin Considerations - A rise in operating expenses is anticipated to negatively impact margins, with total segment operating expenses expected to increase by 3.4% year over year to $394 million [5] Earnings Prediction Model - The current model does not predict a definitive earnings beat for Vail Resorts, as it holds an Earnings ESP of +4.69% and a Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell) [6]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q2 2025, comparable store sales decreased by 3% compared to the prior year period, with a noted decline of 2.2% in the first five weeks of the quarter [11][12] - Revenue for the quarter was $557 million, with a net income of $11 million or $0.32 per diluted share, and adjusted EBITDA of $130 million, resulting in an adjusted EBITDA margin of 23% [13][14] - The company generated $34 million in operating cash flow during the quarter, ending with $12 million in cash and $443 million in total liquidity [13][14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The special events business saw a revenue increase of nearly 10% year-over-year, contributing positively to overall performance [25] - The company opened three new stores in Q2 and has a total of eight new store openings year to date, with expectations for 11 new store openings in fiscal 2025 [17][18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is focusing on international franchising as a growth driver, with agreements for over 35 additional stores in the coming years [18] - The company has seen a significant improvement in its special events business, which is driving brand engagement and awareness [25] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The management is committed to reinforcing a guest-first culture, delivering memorable experiences, and driving growth in sales and shareholder value [9][10] - The strategic focus includes improving marketing effectiveness, enhancing food and beverage offerings, and introducing new games to attract customers [26][28] - The company aims to simplify its marketing message and improve value perception among customers [38][79] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges macroeconomic headwinds but believes that delivering value will help the brand prosper [78] - The company is optimistic about improving performance through focused execution and believes the stock is undervalued with significant upside potential [20][32] Other Important Information - The company has implemented a new prototype for remodels that is expected to drive better results at a lower cost [23] - A sale-leaseback transaction for real estate assets has provided approximately $77 million in funds, enhancing liquidity for future investments [16] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the comparable store sales trends for Q3? - Management did not quantify the numbers but indicated trends are consistent with Q2 [35] Question: Can you elaborate on value perception challenges? - Management believes the confusion in marketing has affected value perception and is working on simplifying messaging [36][38] Question: What are the near-term margin expectations? - Management anticipates moderated EBITDA margins in the second half of the year due to improved top-line performance and fewer one-off costs [44] Question: How is the eat and play combo performing? - The eat and play combo is seeing an 8% to 10% opt-in rate, with food upgrades contributing positively to sales [45] Question: How does the brand's transformation compare to past experiences? - Management sees similarities in brand distinctiveness and value perception challenges but acknowledges the complexity of the entertainment aspect [49][51] Question: What is the outlook on new store growth and CapEx discipline? - Management remains bullish on new store growth, expecting to maintain a 6% to 7% growth rate through new unit additions [53][55] Question: What changes have been made to game pricing? - The company has simplified game pricing to enhance value perception and increase customer dwell time [58][60] Question: Will marketing investments need to increase? - Management believes the current marketing spend is sufficient and will focus on refining the media mix for effectiveness [66] Question: What is the new adjusted EBITDA target? - The new target is set at $675 million, which management believes is achievable within the committed timeline [75]

Core Insights - Six Flags Entertainment Corporation's shares increased following an update on improving summer traffic and strong demand for upcoming seasonal events [1][5] - The company reported welcoming 17.8 million guests over the nine weeks ending August 31, marking a 2% increase compared to the same period in 2024 [1][4] Attendance and Revenue - August attendance rose by 3%, equating to approximately 172,000 additional visits, with management maintaining full-year adjusted EBITDA guidance of $860 million to $910 million [2][3] - Preliminary revenue for the nine-week period was around $1.1 billion, reflecting a 2% year-over-year decline, primarily due to a 7% drop in admissions per capita [4] Strategic Initiatives - The company emphasized that the rebound in attendance aligns with 2025 expectations, driven by investments in new rides, food and beverage upgrades, and enhanced guest experiences [3] - Early sales of 2026 season passes are outpacing last year, with average pricing up about 3%, indicating strong interest in the all-park add-on [3] Financial Position - Reducing leverage remains a top priority for the company, which noted no near-term debt maturities or covenant pressures, allowing flexibility for strategic investments [5]

Core Insights - Six Flags reported strong attendance growth and increased season pass unit sales through Labor Day weekend, indicating robust consumer interest and engagement in their offerings [1] Attendance and Sales Performance - The company experienced significant attendance growth, which reflects a positive trend in visitor numbers compared to previous periods [1] - Season pass unit sales also saw an increase, suggesting that customers are committing to longer-term visits, which can enhance revenue stability [1] Future Guidance - Six Flags reaffirmed its guidance for 2025, indicating confidence in its strategic direction and operational performance moving forward [1]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter fell well below plan, reflecting a significant decline in attendance due to macro factors and extreme weather conditions [20][24][34] - The company ended the quarter with approximately $107 million in cash and cash equivalents, with total liquidity of $540 million [20] - Gross debt outstanding at the end of the second quarter was approximately $5.3 billion, with net debt to annualized second quarter adjusted EBITDA at approximately 6.2 times, above the target range of sub four times [22][34] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Attendance at Legacy Cedar Fair parks was up 3% during July, while per capita spending on admissions increased by 4% [25][30] - Per capita spending on in-park products at Legacy Cedar Fair parks was up 3%, driven by higher guest spending on food, beverage, and merchandise [25] - The company introduced a reimagined pass structure for the 2026 season pass program to enhance appeal and attract new customers [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Combined attendance was down 12% over a six-week period due to severe weather, while attendance was flat during the first seven weeks of the quarter when weather was not an issue [24] - Attendance in July was up 1%, with preliminary net revenues down approximately 3% due to pressure on guest spending [29][34] - The company experienced a surge in demand for parks in July, with season pass sales climbing rapidly [11][29] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on optimizing assets and reducing net leverage while executing integration efforts [10][18] - A significant restructuring was completed to flatten leadership layers and improve agility, aiming for annualized labor cost reductions of over $20 million [17] - The company is actively pursuing divestitures of non-core assets to accelerate deleveraging [22][58] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged that the challenges faced in the first half of the year are largely transient and not indicative of a fundamental change in consumer behavior [49] - The company anticipates stronger second-half results with normalized weather conditions and improved demand trends [37][39] - Management remains committed to reducing leverage and is evaluating opportunities to monetize non-core assets [38][39] Other Important Information - The company incurred $11 million in non-recurring merger-related integration costs and $28 million in adjusted EBITDA add-backs during the quarter [27] - The company expects to reduce full-year operating costs and expenses by 3% compared to last year's combined cost base [18][35] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarification on macro pressures - Management clarified that macro pressures include significant weather impacts and some pressure on lower-income consumers, but overall spending behavior at parks remains strong [44][46] Question: Impact of weather on long-term targets - Management believes the challenges faced are transient and not reflective of long-term potential, with a focus on finishing 2025 strong and building momentum for 2026 [49][50] Question: Details on divestitures - Management is actively pursuing two non-core asset sales and evaluating other potential divestitures to optimize the portfolio [58][59] Question: Cost savings and synergies - Management confirmed that the goal for permanent cost savings remains at $120 million, with a focus on realizing these synergies in the second half of the year [61][62] Question: Guidance on attendance and pricing - Management indicated that attendance is expected to be flat for the second half, with pricing strategies being adjusted based on demand trends observed in recent weeks [34][91]

Core Insights - Vail Resorts reported a 3% year-to-date increase in resort reported EBITDA despite a 3% decline in skier visits, with updated guidance for fiscal 2025 EBITDA set between $831 million and $851 million [1] - The company is implementing a $100 million Resource Efficiency Transformation Plan aimed at achieving annualized cost savings by the end of fiscal 2026, with $35 million expected in fiscal 2025 [2][3] - Season pass sales decreased by 1% in units but increased by 2% in dollar value, reflecting a 7% price increase, while overall visitation declined by 7% [4][5] - Vail Resorts maintains a conservative capital allocation strategy with $1.6 billion in total liquidity and a net leverage ratio of 2.6 times EBITDA, having repurchased $30 million in shares during the quarter [6][7] - Management's updated guidance for fiscal 2025 includes a net income forecast of $264 million to $298 million and emphasizes the importance of advanced commitment in its business model [8]

Core Insights - Vail Resorts, Inc. reported third-quarter fiscal 2025 results with earnings exceeding estimates but revenues falling short, leading to a 1.3% decline in shares post-results [1][3][10] Financial Performance - Earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter was $10.54, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $10, and up from $9.54 in the prior year [3][10] - Quarterly net revenues reached $1,295.6 million, missing the consensus estimate of $1,303 million, but reflecting a 1% year-over-year increase [3][10] Segment Analysis - **Mountain Segment**: Generated net revenues of $1.2 billion, a 1.4% increase year-over-year, with dining revenues up 1.4% to $111 million, while retail/rental revenues decreased by 7.8% to $113.7 million [5][6] - **Lodging Segment**: Reported total net revenues of $82.9 million, down 4.8% year-over-year, with EBITDA declining to $12.3 million from $15.8 million in the previous year [6][7] Operating Results - Consolidated EBITDA for the quarter was $654.1 million, slightly up from $653.3 million year-over-year, with operating expenses totaling $650 million compared to $631.1 million in the prior year [8] Balance Sheet - Cash and cash equivalents as of April 30, 2025, were $467 million, down from $705.4 million a year ago [9] - Net long-term debt stood at $2.1 billion, reduced from $2.7 billion as of April 30, 2024 [11] Future Guidance - For fiscal 2025, net income is now estimated between $285 million and $313 million, with total reported EBITDA expected to be between $848 million and $870 million [14]

Financial Targets & Growth Strategy - The company aims for approximately 6% CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) in sustainable revenue growth from 2025 to 2028[29] - The company is targeting a Modified EBITDA margin of approximately 40% by 2028[29] - The company anticipates a ~$400 million increase in Free Cash Flow in 2028 compared to the projected 2025[30] - The company is targeting net total leverage to be less than 40x by the end of 2026[29] - The company projects net revenues of ~$38 billion in 2028[32] Synergies & Cost Savings - The company is targeting ~$180 million in synergies by the end of 2026[20, 29] - The company plans to achieve cost savings through headcount/labor reductions and non-headcount/labor reductions[194] Attendance & Guest Experience - The company aims to regain approximately 10 million visits through new rides, improved marketing, and a unified season pass strategy[21, 90, 91] - The company is focused on improving guest satisfaction to drive attendance at underpenetrated parks[22, 95, 97] - The company's strategy includes expanding low penetration parks to half of high penetration parks level, which would yield 10 million in new attendance[63] Market Position & Revenue Drivers - The company is the largest regional amusement park operator in North America, entertaining 50 million guests in 2024 on a combined basis[36] - The company aims to grow in-park revenue and expand attendance, targeting ~$38 billion in revenue by 2028[85]