Churchill Downs rporated(US:CHDN)2025-04-25 00:02Financial 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 challenges such as weather events and economic uncertainty [11][12][39] - 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] - Kentucky HRM properties increased adjusted EBITDA by $3.1 million or 6% compared to the prior year quarter [41] - 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 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 [25] - 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 strategic investments in the Kentucky Derby and HRM businesses, with a focus on long-term shareholder value [14][17] - A $900 million multiyear project at Churchill Downs Racetrack has been temporarily paused due to economic uncertainties [16][17] - The company plans to continue exploring further development in key markets, including Virginia and Kentucky [25][29] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the hesitancy in consumer spending due to macroeconomic volatility but expressed confidence in the company's ability to manage through these challenges [56][58] - The leadership team remains committed to delivering excellent total shareholder return with consistent execution over the long term [38][51] - Management expects the upcoming Kentucky Derby to deliver results comparable to last year's record performance [35][63] Other Important Information - The company announced a new common stock repurchase program of up to $500 million and repurchased nearly 800,000 shares in the first quarter [49] - The company reduced its 2025 maintenance capital projection by $10 million to $90 to $100 million [48] Q&A Session Questions and Answers Question: About the softness seen in the quarter - Management noted some hesitancy in the lower-tiered play due to macroeconomic volatility, but overall performance has been consistent [56][58] Question: Impact on international visitation for the Derby - Management indicated no material change in international visitation, with expectations for strong demand for the Derby [62][64] Question: Long-term growth for the Derby - Management discussed the potential for growth in ticket pricing and experiences, with expectations for continued strong demand [70][72] Question: Implementation of electronic table games - Management highlighted regulatory and taxation challenges but expressed optimism about the rollout of electronic table games [77][79] Question: Growth opportunities at existing properties - Management emphasized organic growth in Kentucky properties and ongoing projects in Virginia, indicating a strong pipeline for future growth [91][92] Question: Trends in Virginia for existing assets - Management expressed confidence in the Virginia market, noting that it is still early in the maturity of these assets [99][101] Question: Capital allocation and buybacks - Management stated that capital allocation decisions are ongoing, with share buybacks being one of the options considered [112][114] Question: Changes for the Derby next year - Management indicated that adjustments would be based on customer feedback and data analysis post-Derby [120][122] Question: Comparability of Derby performance this year versus last year - Management acknowledged macroeconomic uncertainties but expressed confidence that these would not materially affect Derby performance [130][131]