Melco Resorts & Entertainment(MLCO) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company recorded $1.4 billion in group property EBITDA for the full year of 2025, growing by 17% compared to 2024 [4] - Group-wide adjusted property EBITDA for Q4 2025 grew 12% year-over-year to approximately $331 million [8] - Macau property EBITDA grew 24% year-over-year in Q4 2025 and 25% for the full year compared to 2024 [4] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Macau, the dedicated efforts to enhance customer experience led to significant EBITDA growth [4] - City of Dreams Mediterranean and satellite casinos in Cyprus achieved 78% year-over-year growth in property EBITDA to $21 million for Q4 2025 [7] - The Philippines faced competitive pressures and industry headwinds, impacting performance, but positive developments were noted [5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Macau market GGR increased by 24% year-over-year, with market share also rising in early 2026 [4] - The Philippines market is seeing improvements with visa-free travel for Chinese nationals and upgrades to the Manila Airport [5] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to implement new initiatives in 2026, including the opening of the renovated Countdown Hotel, expected to set a new benchmark in Macau [5] - A revamp of the retail area at COD and upgrades to food and beverage offerings are also in the pipeline [5] - The company has concluded evaluations of strategic alternatives for COD Manila, indicating confidence in future business recovery [6] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that competition in Macau remains intense but is expected to stabilize [24][28] - The company is confident in maintaining EBITDA margins due to disciplined cost management throughout 2025 [29] - Positive sentiment was expressed regarding the potential for business rebound in the Philippines and Cyprus [6][7] Other Important Information - The company had available liquidity of approximately $2.4 billion and consolidated cash on hand of approximately $1.2 billion as of the end of 2025 [9] - Total CapEx for 2026 is projected at $450 million, with significant investments in Macau [35] Q&A Session Summary Question: Impact of House of Dancing Water on traffic and conversion - Management noted a meaningful uptick in property visitation since reopening the show, driving additional spending across non-gaming areas [16][17] Question: Competitive intensity in Macau and EBITDA margin expectations - Management acknowledged intense competition but expressed confidence in maintaining margins due to disciplined reinvestment strategies [22][24][29] Question: Clarification on operating expenses and non-recurring items - Additional bad debt for the quarter was approximately $5 million, with $6 million related to the anniversary events [33] Question: CapEx breakdown for major projects - Total CapEx for the year is $450 million, with significant allocations for the Countdown Hotel and other properties [35]