Boyd Gaming (US:BYD)2025-10-23 22:02Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported revenues exceeding $1 billion for the third quarter, with EBITDA at $322 million, maintaining a margin of 37% [4][17] - The total leverage ratio improved from 2.8 times to 1.5 times following the sale of a stake in FanDuel, with lease-adjusted leverage declining from 3.2 times to 2.0 times [23][22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Las Vegas Locals segment generated revenues of $211 million and EBITDA of $92 million, with year-over-year growth of 2% in both metrics when excluding the Orleans [5][6] - The Midwest and South segment achieved its strongest third-quarter performance in three years, with revenues rising 3% to $539 million and EBITDA growing to $202 million, exceeding 2% over the prior year [9][10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The broader Las Vegas Locals market saw gaming revenue growth of over 3% in the last 12 months, supported by solid wage growth of more than 6% in Southern Nevada [7][8] - The company noted improvements in play from both core and retail customers, indicating a positive trend in customer demand across the country [12][18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on capital investments to enhance property offerings, with a budget of $100 million per year for growth capital projects [14][21] - Significant developments include the $750 million resort in Norfolk, Virginia, scheduled to open in November 2027, and the Cadence Crossing project in Las Vegas, set to replace the Joker's Wild Casino [15][16] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the resilience of the Southern Nevada economy and the ongoing growth potential of the Las Vegas Locals business [9][18] - The company anticipates continued strong performance in the fourth quarter, supported by improving customer trends and ongoing capital investments [12][24] Other Important Information - The company repurchased $160 million in stock during the quarter and paid $15 million in dividends, returning a total of $637 million to shareholders year-to-date [17][22] - The company is maintaining a disciplined approach to marketing spend, despite increased competition in some markets [56] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the main drivers of weakness in the destination business? - Management noted that the weakness is primarily in the destination business, particularly at the Orleans, while core and locals customers continue to perform well [26][28] Question: Can you share thoughts on the M&A pipeline? - Management indicated a disciplined approach to M&A, monitoring opportunities but not seeing a significant increase in pitch books [31] Question: How did the Midwest and South properties perform? - Performance was generally broad-based, with notable growth at Treasure Chest, indicating strong results across the portfolio [36] Question: What is the expected impact of the tax bill? - Management believes the tax bill will provide incremental benefits but has not quantified its impact on revenue and EBITDA [66] Question: How is the company managing disruption from renovations? - Management stated that while there is disruption, performance at properties like Suncoast remains in line with prior year results, and they are managing through the construction effectively [60][62] Question: What is the outlook for the balance sheet and leverage? - Management plans to maintain leverage around 1.5 to 2 times, gradually increasing as capital plans are executed, while remaining prudent about future opportunities [90][92]