Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q2 2025, the company generated revenue of $163.6 million and EBITDA of $38.4 million, with revenue increasing by 3% and EBITDA up by 7% compared to the prior year [6][12] - The EBITDA margin improved by 170 basis points to over 46% for the Nevada locals casinos segment [6] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Nevada locals casinos segment posted its highest quarterly EBITDA in two years, with EBITDA growth of over 9% [6] - The casino resort segment experienced a 3% decline in revenue and a 5% decline in EBITDA, primarily due to low table game hold in Laughlin [7] - The Tavern business saw a 7% year-over-year revenue decline, although EBITDA stabilized in July compared to the previous year [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The occupancy rate for The Strat was 69%, down 4% from the previous year, with June occupancy falling to 60% [8] - The company anticipates stabilization of bookings in August and expects increased attendees at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Q4 and Q1 2026 [8][12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on managing its cost structure, investing in its own assets, and returning capital to shareholders, with M&A being a lower priority due to the uncertain business environment and elevated interest rates [11][12] - The company expects to benefit from recent tax legislation providing relief on tips and overtime, which will support organic growth [12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that summer business volatility is expected to abate in the fall, with positive outlooks for local properties and the Laughlin market [12] - There are expectations for improved demand dynamics and occupancy rates, particularly for weekends [22] Other Important Information - The company ended the quarter with $432 million in funded debt and $52 million in cash, having repurchased over 500,000 shares for $14.6 million in Q2 [11] - The company has $77 million remaining on its current buyback authorization [11] Q&A Session Summary Question: Expected impacts from the passing of the big beautiful bill - Management expects to benefit from accelerated depreciation, estimating an additional $10 to $15 million in tax shield, translating to $2 to $3 million in cash flow [14][15] Question: Growth outlook for the second half of the year - Management sees a positive outlook for local properties and Laughlin, with some recovery expected for The Strat post-midsummer [18][20] Question: Strategy to mitigate recent depressed prices and rates on the Strip - The company is focused on managing costs, including curtailing restaurant hours during midweek and adjusting services based on occupancy [22][24] Question: M&A landscape and opportunities - Management indicated that while there are potential targets, M&A is not a focus until the business stabilizes and interest rates decrease [28][30] Question: Customer spending at The Strat - Despite lower foot traffic, spending per trip remains consistent, with positive trends in casino metrics and strong performance from the top of the world restaurant [32][34] Question: Growth outlook for Laughlin - Management is optimistic about Laughlin's growth due to its prime location, new marketing strategies, and the expected increase in discretionary spending from customers benefiting from tax breaks [39][41]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The first quarter results were in line with expectations, primarily impacted by the absence of last year's Super Bowl in Las Vegas, particularly affecting The Strat [5] - EBITDA from other casinos increased year over year, while EBITDA from taverns stabilized [5] - The company ended the quarter with over $400 million in debt, $50 million in cash, and $225 million in remaining availability under the revolving credit facility, with a low net leverage of 2.4 times EBITDA [9][10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Strat experienced a 5% decline in occupancy for the quarter, with a 13% drop in February, leading to a $3 million EBITDA headwind [6] - In Laughlin, EBITDA increased by reducing expenses and focusing on more profitable concerts, maintaining leading market share [7] - Revenue for Nevada locals casinos was flat year over year, but EBITDA increased by 2%, with consistent performance and EBITDA margins at 46% for the second consecutive quarter [8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company observed increasing strength in the locals business in April, indicating a strong start for Q2 [8] - The tavern segment saw slight declines in revenue and EBITDA year over year, but sequentially improved over Q4 [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on a disciplined reinvestment strategy and has prioritized share repurchases over M&A opportunities due to current market conditions [10][19] - The management believes that the current macroeconomic environment allows for continued reinvestment in assets, paying dividends, and opportunistically acquiring stock [10][11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the business remains resilient and is improving despite an uncertain macroeconomic environment [11] - The company is optimistic about the upcoming months, with April showing stable operating trends and May starting strong [5][11] Other Important Information - The company has repurchased 3.2 million shares totaling nearly $100 million since the start of 2024 and paid out $35 million in dividends [10] - A nationally recognized food and beverage concept is set to open at The Strat, which is expected to enhance the property’s offerings [45] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide insights on The Strat's booking window and OTA mix? - Management indicated that the booking window is relatively short, with 25% to 30% of occupancy materializing within a seven-day period, and the OTA mix is currently around 65%, trending downward as they improve direct bookings [13][17] Question: How is the M&A environment affecting discussions? - Management stated that the current market dislocation has dampened strategic M&A discussions, with high price expectations for marketed assets [18][19] Question: Can you elaborate on the tavern business and competition from smaller operators? - Management noted increased promotional activity from smaller operators but emphasized that such trends are typically unsustainable and that their disciplined approach has led to improved performance [24][28] Question: How is the company addressing capital allocation and potential leverage for stock repurchases? - Management confirmed a commitment to aggressive stock buybacks, utilizing available liquidity, but expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of tender offers in the gaming space [66] Question: What are the key drivers for increasing hotel room rates at The Strat? - Management highlighted the importance of citywide events and improved direct booking strategies, with a focus on midweek occupancy to drive higher rates [70][72]