International Game Technology PLC(IGT) - 2024 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In 2024, the company generated over $1 billion in consolidated cash from operations and approximately$660 million of free cash flow, with more than 80% of that free cash flow coming from lottery operations [7][31] - The revenue for the year was $2.5 billion, consistent with 2023, with EBITDA of$1.2 billion at a 47% margin [8][27] - The company reported Q4 revenue of $651 million, down from$681 million in the prior year, primarily due to lower U.S. multi-state jackpot sales [23][24] - Adjusted EBITDA for the full year was $1.17 billion, down from$1.21 billion in the prior year [27] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Instant ticket and draw game sales increased by 4% in Q4, with a 7% same-store sales growth in Italy [10][23] - U.S. multi-state jackpot sales declined by $29 million due to lower jackpot activity compared to the previous year [25] - iLottery sales rose by 28$4 billion, allowing a singular focus on its lottery business [6][21] - Future investments will focus on new game content and technologies to fuel sales growth and strengthen industry leadership [20] - The company is identifying structural cost savings to enhance efficiency and financial profile [21][33] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the core recurring business, expecting revenue growth aligned with long-term expectations [36] - The company anticipates a challenging first half of 2025 due to lower U.S. multi-stage jackpot activity impacting service revenue [37][39] - The increase in Mega Millions ticket price to $5 is expected to positively impact sales in the latter half of 2025 [88][92] Other Important Information - The company plans to allocate at least$2 billion of the proceeds from the gaming and digital sale for debt reduction [31][45] - Annual CapEx is expected to be in the range of $400 million to$450 million for 2025 and 2026, with significant investments required for the Italy Lotto contract [34][35] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you expand on the $25 million investment into new contract extensions and growth initiatives? - Management indicated that these costs are primarily temporary and necessary for securing new contracts and technology setups [50][54] Question: What are the expected uses of proceeds from the gaming and digital business sale? - Management confirmed a commitment to$2 billion for debt repayment, with further discussions on additional allocations to occur around the closing date [59][60] Question: Can you provide an update on the Italy lotto rebid process? - The RFP was issued in early January, with bids due by March 17, and the award is expected in Q2 [74][75] Question: How significant are carriers for driving draw-based sales? - Management noted that the impact of carriers varies by jurisdiction, with minimal effect on overall sales for IGT [78][82] Question: What is the expected impact of the Mega Millions price increase? - Management believes the price increase will lead to fewer tickets sold but at a higher price point, potentially increasing overall revenue [88][92] Question: Can you discuss the new printing press and its expected returns? - The new press is expected to improve both capacity and efficiency, leading to better margins and competitive positioning [100][101] Question: What is the status of the Texas lottery renewal process? - The bid has been submitted, and feedback is expected in the first half of 2025 [121] Question: What is the situation regarding LMA incentives for the first semester? - Management indicated a combination of shortfall and lower incentives compared to the previous year, with a conservative outlook for the first half of 2025 [122][124]