ere Online Luxembourg(CDRO) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported EUR 52 million in net gaming revenue for Q3 2025, which was flat compared to the prior year, impacted by unfavorable foreign exchange effects and a low sports betting margin [5][10] - Adjusted EBITDA was positive EUR 2.9 million, nearly doubling from the prior year, driven by a EUR 4 million reduction in marketing spend [11][12] - On a constant currency basis, net gaming revenue would have grown by 3% [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The casino segment contributed 65% to total net gaming revenue, which was 5 percentage points above normal levels, while sports betting revenue was negatively impacted [6][10] - The average monthly active customers increased by 11%, but average monthly spend per active customer decreased by 10% due to currency devaluation [8][12] - The company acquired 85,000 first-time depositors (FTDs), a 26% increase year-over-year, with the lowest cost per acquisition (CPA) since Q1 2023 at EUR 167 [8][12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Spain, net gaming revenue was EUR 22 million, a 5% increase from the prior year, driven by higher spend per active customer and a 4% increase in active customers [13] - In Mexico, net gaming revenue remained flat at EUR 27 million, with a nearly 5% devaluation of the peso impacting results; however, on a constant currency basis, revenue would have grown by 5% [14] - The company noted a decline in net gaming revenue from Colombia, impacted by a value-added tax on deposits [10][11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to increase its share buyback program from $5 million to $7.5 million, reflecting confidence in the business outlook [9] - The management is focused on optimizing customer acquisition strategies, particularly in Mexico, while also preparing for potential impacts from a proposed increase in gaming tax rates [15][16] - The company is monitoring regulatory changes in Spain and Colombia, with a cautious approach to future investments in Colombia due to unfavorable tax conditions [49][52] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about a re-acceleration of net gaming revenue in Q4 2025, with growth expected to continue into 2026 [6][18] - The management acknowledged challenges posed by the proposed tax increase in Mexico but remains confident in the long-term potential of the market [16][25] - The company is also exploring the use of AI tools to enhance customer experience, although current implementations have not yet met expectations [60][62] Other Important Information - The company ended Q3 2025 with EUR 48 million in total cash, with EUR 43 million available [17] - The management reiterated guidance for 2025, expecting net gaming revenue between EUR 220 million and EUR 230 million, and adjusted EBITDA in the range of EUR 10-15 million [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you share thoughts on mitigating higher taxes in Mexico? - Management is reaching out to partners to explore ways to mitigate the impact of the tax increase, which is expected to be approved soon [24][25] Question: Have you been impacted by recent AML crackdowns in Mexico? - Management stated they have not been directly impacted and continue to operate within regulatory standards [28][30] Question: What is the strategy regarding customer acquisition costs? - Management noted that lower CPA has been associated with lower player value, and they are continuously optimizing acquisition strategies [34] Question: How is the marketing strategy evolving in Spain? - Management reported positive trends in KPIs in Spain and is optimistic about the business outlook following regulatory changes [42][44] Question: What are the expectations regarding VAT in Colombia? - Management is monitoring the situation closely, with the current VAT being a significant challenge for profitability [48][52]