Century Casinos(US:CNTY)2025-05-12 15:02Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenues for Q1 were $130.4 million, with EBITDAR at $20.2 million, maintaining operating margins consistent with Q1 of the previous year despite challenges [4][5] - The impact of weather, leap year, and reduced sports betting revenue in Colorado was estimated to be around $2 million compared to Q1 last year [5] - Carded gaming revenue increased by 1%, while uncarded gaming revenue decreased by 2.5% across all U.S. properties [5] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Missouri, the new Carratus property saw carded gaming revenue grow by 12% and uncarded revenue increase by 23%, leading to a total gaming revenue increase of 17% or $2.1 million compared to Q1 last year [6][7] - The Century Casino and Hotel in Cape Girardeau experienced a 5% increase in patrons and a 2% increase in trips, although gaming win was flat due to lower hold [12] - In Colorado, carded revenue grew by 7% in Central City, while uncarded revenue decreased by 36% [13][14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total visitor volume decreased by 3%, with a notable reduction in visits from the 50 age group, partially offset by a 1% increase from younger guests [6] - The number of patrons living more than 75 miles from the Carratus property increased by 34%, contributing to a 23% increase in total visitors [9] - In the East segment, high-end customers outperformed low to mid-tier customers, with gaming revenue from the upper segment increasing by 10% [16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on expanding its market presence, particularly in Missouri, with plans for sports betting to go live towards the end of the year [13] - There is a commitment to operational discipline and efficiency improvements, with expectations for higher EBITDA and cash flow moving forward [24] - The company plans to balance a conservative CapEx program with returning capital to shareholders, including stock buybacks [28] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about improving consumer behavior and spending patterns since mid-March, with April showing an estimated 5% increase in EBITDA compared to last year [25][26] - Despite economic uncertainties, management is more confident in the long-term prospects of the company than in the previous year [26] - The company does not anticipate significant competitive supply impacting its operations this year or next [27] Other Important Information - The company's cash and cash equivalents at the end of the quarter were $85 million, with a total principal amount of debt outstanding at €340 million [23] - The company expects to spend $4 million on growth projects and $14 million on maintenance CapEx this year [24] - The company is in discussions regarding the potential sale of its Polish operations, with two interested parties emerging [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Have you noticed any softening in consumer behavior for your Canadian assets? - Management indicated that lower revenue is not significant and attributed it to weather and one less gaming day, expressing no concerns [33] Question: Can you provide an update on initiatives at Rocky Gap? - Management mentioned completed renovations and marketing initiatives targeting the Baltimore and Washington DC areas to attract higher net worth guests [36] Question: What has changed regarding year-end leverage targets? - Management noted a positive trend since mid-March but remained cautious about projecting this trend for the full year [44] Question: Are you looking to monetize your casino database in Alberta? - Management mentioned potential partnerships with the Alberta Gaming Commission for database sharing but did not see other opportunities at this time [48] Question: What is the strategy for revenue growth in Missouri? - Management confirmed a proactive approach to push revenue up while maintaining cost discipline, particularly targeting the 75+ mile customer base [55] Question: What is the timeline for the sale of Polish assets? - Management believes the sale could happen in 2025 but acknowledged previous misestimations regarding the timeline [57] Question: What is the capacity for stock buybacks? - Management indicated plans to start stock buybacks with a single-digit million dollar volume between now and the next earnings release [59]