Table of Contents
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Form 10-Q
(Mark One)
☑
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2024
or
☐
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from to
Commission File No. 1-32583
FULL HOUSE RESORTS, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware
(State or other jurisdiction
of incorporation or organization)
13-3391527
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
One Summerlin, 1980 Festival Plaza Drive, Suite 680
Las Vegas, Nevada
(Address of principal executive offices)
89135
(Zip Code)
(702) 221-7800
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each Class
Trading Symbol(s)
Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, $0.0001 par value per share
FLL
The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ☑ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes ☑ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act:
Large accelerated filer ☐
Accelerated filer ☑
Emerging growth company ☐
Non-accelerated filer ☐
Smaller reporting company ☑
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act: ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ☐ No ☑
At November 4, 2024, there were 35,601,097 shares of Common Stock, $0.0001 par value per share, outstanding.
FULL HOUSE RESORTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
FORM 10-Q
INDEX
Page
PART IFINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1.
Financial Statements (Unaudited)
3
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 and 2023
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023
4
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity for the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 and 2023
5
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 and 2023
6
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
8
Note 1 ⸺ Organization
Note 2 ⸺ Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies
Note 3 ⸺ Assets Held for Sale
14
Note 4 ⸺ Leases
15
Note 5 ⸺ Long-Term Debt
18
Note 6 ⸺ Income Taxes
20
Note 7 ⸺ Commitments and Contingencies
21
Note 8 ⸺ Earnings (Loss) Per Share
Note 9 ⸺ Segment Reporting and Disaggregated Revenue
Item 2.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
26
Item 3.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
43
Item 4.
Controls and Procedures
Item 5.
Other Information
PART IIOTHER INFORMATION
Legal Proceedings
Item 1A.
Risk Factors
Item 6.
Exhibits
44
Signatures
45
2
PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (Unaudited)
(In thousands, except per share data)
Three Months Ended
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
2024
2023
Revenues
Casino
$
56,116
50,240
162,474
131,586
Food and beverage
11,100
9,086
31,272
25,419
Hotel
4,693
2,560
11,287
7,052
Other operations, including contracted sports wagering
3,778
9,657
14,070
16,974
75,687
71,543
219,103
181,031
Operating costs and expenses
22,582
19,437
63,876
49,771
11,561
8,330
32,035
24,815
3,160
1,164
7,706
3,611
Other operations
610
691
2,391
1,878
Selling, general and administrative
26,738
22,017
76,958
61,823
Project development costs
52
55
Preopening costs
42
1,051
2,462
12,634
Depreciation and amortization
10,493
8,468
31,444
22,482
Loss on disposal of assets
—
7
Gain on sale of Stockman’s
(2,000)
73,238
61,186
214,945
177,066
Operating income
2,449
10,357
4,158
3,965
Other (expense) income
Interest expense, net
(11,047)
(5,867)
(32,320)
(16,319)
Gain on settlements
29
384
(5,838)
(15,935)
(Loss) income before income taxes
(8,598)
4,519
(28,162)
(11,970)
Income tax (benefit) provision
(126)
(74)
211
452
Net (loss) income
(8,472)
4,593
(28,373)
(12,422)
Basic (loss) earnings per share
(0.24)
0.13
(0.82)
(0.36)
Diluted (loss) earnings per share
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Unaudited)
(In thousands, except share data)
December 31,
ASSETS
Current assets
Cash and equivalents
25,936
36,155
Restricted cash
7,664
37,639
Accounts receivable, net
5,847
5,332
Inventories
2,306
1,839
Prepaid expenses and other
3,959
3,674
Assets held for sale
2,487
48,199
84,639
Property and equipment, net
450,315
457,907
Operating lease right-of-use assets, net
56,528
44,704
Finance lease right-of-use assets, net
1,312
2,318
Goodwill
19,477
21,286
Other intangible assets, net
92,200
76,271
Deposits and other
687
1,332
668,718
688,457
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities
Accounts payable
9,449
12,794
Income taxes payable
489
Construction payable
6,364
20,667
Accrued payroll and related
9,143
4,097
Accrued interest
4,744
14,248
Other accrued expenses and current liabilities
19,761
19,779
Current portion of operating lease obligations
3,964
4,784
Current portion of finance lease obligations
1,897
1,694
Liabilities related to assets held for sale
79
55,401
78,552
Operating lease obligations, net of current portion
53,122
40,248
Finance lease obligations, net of current portion
1,245
2,705
Other long-term liabilities, net of current portion
33,091
16,075
Long-term debt, net
467,389
465,153
Deferred income taxes, net
1,895
1,684
Contract liabilities, net of current portion
4,756
6,192
616,899
610,609
Commitments and contingencies (Note 7)
Stockholders’ equity
Common stock, $0.0001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized; 35,446,627 and 35,302,549 shares issued and 35,446,627 and 34,590,150 shares outstanding
Additional paid-in capital
114,804
113,329
Treasury stock; 712,399 common shares at December 31, 2023
(869)
Accumulated deficit
(62,989)
(34,616)
51,819
77,848
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY (Unaudited)
(In thousands)
Additional
Total
Common Stock
Paid-in
Treasury Stock
Accumulated
Stockholders’
Shares
Dollars
Capital
Deficit
Equity
Balance, January 1, 2024
35,302
712
Stock-based compensation
709
Net loss
(11,272)
Balance, March 31, 2024
114,038
(45,888)
67,285
Options exercised andrestricted stocks vested
(198)
(209)
256
58
740
(8,629)
Balance, June 30, 2024
114,580
503
(613)
(54,517)
59,454
Options exercised andrestricted stocks vested, net
145
(482)
(503)
613
131
706
Balance, September 30, 2024
35,447
Balance, January 1, 2023
110,590
895
(1,091)
(9,712)
99,791
Options exercised
12
(4)
17
748
(11,415)
Balance, March 31, 2023
111,350
891
(1,086)
(21,127)
89,141
(65)
(166)
202
137
655
(5,600)
Balance, June 30, 2023
111,940
725
(884)
(26,727)
84,333
Restricted stocks vested
(91)
(10)
(79)
726
Net income
Balance, September 30, 2023
112,575
715
(872)
(22,134)
89,573
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited)
Cash flows from operating activities:
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities:
Amortization of debt issuance costs, discounts and premiums
2,236
2,042
Non-cash change in ROU operating lease assets
2,199
2,810
2,155
2,129
Provision for (recovery of) credit losses
215
(13)
(384)
Other operating activities
437
Deferred income taxes
Increases and decreases in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable
(730)
(4,177)
Prepaid expenses, inventories and other
(752)
(643)
(489)
Operating lease liabilities
(1,969)
(2,654)
Contract liabilities
(5,361)
(1,611)
Accounts payable and other liabilities
203
(5,248)
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities
(993)
3,207
Cash flows from investing activities:
Capital expenditures
(44,626)
(119,898)
Proceeds from insurance settlement related to property damage
355
Proceeds from sale of Stockman’s
7,000
Acquisition of intangible assets
(1)
(50,251)
Other
(70)
Net cash used in investing activities
(37,697)
(169,794)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from Senior Secured Notes due 2028 borrowings
40,000
Payment of debt discount and issuance costs
(6,494)
Borrowings under revolving credit facility
13,000
42,950
Repayment of revolving credit facility borrowings
(13,000)
(15,950)
Repayment of finance lease obligations
(1,257)
(1,159)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options
189
75
(186)
(19)
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities
(1,254)
59,403
Net decrease in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash,including cash classified within current assets held for sale
(39,944)
(107,184)
Less: cash classified within current assets held for sale
(250)
Net decrease in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
(40,194)
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period
73,794
191,176
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period
33,600
83,992
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited) – (Continued)
Supplemental Cash Flow Disclosure:
Cash paid for interest, net of amounts capitalized
38,885
25,539
Cash paid for income taxes
Supplemental Schedule of Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities:
Payables and accruals incurred for capital expenditures
4,678
23,065
Note payable incurred for asset acquisition
1,500
Accrued liability related to asset acquisition
15,994
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for lease liabilities:
Operating leases
30,178
Right-of-use asset and liability remeasurements:
14,023
2,341
Financing leases
(151)
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
1. ORGANIZATION
Organization. Formed as a Delaware corporation in 1987, Full House Resorts, Inc. owns, leases, operates, develops, manages, and/or invests in casinos and related hospitality and entertainment facilities. References in this document to “Full House,” the “Company,” “we,” “our,” or “us” refer to Full House Resorts, Inc. and its subsidiaries, except where stated or the context otherwise indicates.
The following table presents selected information concerning our segments:
Segments and Properties
Locations
Midwest & South
American Place*
Waukegan, IL (northern suburb of Chicago)
Silver Slipper Casino and Hotel (“Silver Slipper”)
Hancock County, MS (near New Orleans)
Rising Star Casino Resort (“Rising Star”)
Rising Sun, IN (near Cincinnati)
West
Bronco Billy’s Casino (“Bronco Billy’s”) and Chamonix Casino Hotel (“Chamonix”)*
Cripple Creek, CO (near Colorado Springs)
Grand Lodge Casino (“Grand Lodge”),leased and part of the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino
Incline Village, NV(North Shore of Lake Tahoe)
Stockman’s Casino (“Stockman’s”), held for sale starting August 2024
Fallon, NV (one hour east of Reno)
Contracted Sports Wagering
One active sports wagering website (“skin”), plus two others that are currently idle
Colorado
Indiana
One active sports wagering website (“skin”), commenced in August 2023
Illinois
__________
The Company currently operates seven casinos: six on real estate that we own or lease, and one located within a hotel owned by a third party. Additionally, we benefit from three active permitted sports wagering skins – one each in Colorado, Indiana, and Illinois.
In February 2023, we opened our temporary American Place facility, which we are permitted to operate until August 2027. We have begun the design work for the permanent gaming resort facility that we plan to build on adjoining land. In August 2024, we entered into an agreement to sell Stockman’s to a privately-owned company (see Note 3). In October 2024, we completed the phased opening of Chamonix, our newest property located adjacent to our existing Bronco Billy’s Casino.
For additional information about the Company’s segments, see Note 9.
2. BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of Presentation. As permitted by the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”) have been condensed or omitted. These condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Company’s 2023 annual consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023.
The interim condensed consolidated financial statements of the Company included herein reflect all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments) that are, in the opinion of management, necessary to present fairly the financial position and results of operations for the interim periods presented. The results of operations for the interim periods are not necessarily indicative of annualized results for an entire year.
The condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Full House and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Fair Value and the Fair Value Input Hierarchy. Fair value measurements affect the Company’s accounting for net assets acquired in acquisition transactions and certain financial assets and liabilities. Fair value measurements are also used in the Company’s periodic assessments of long-lived tangible and intangible assets for possible impairment, including for property and equipment, goodwill, and other intangible assets. Fair value is defined as the expected price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.
GAAP categorizes the inputs used for fair value into a three-level hierarchy:
Methods and assumptions used to estimate the fair value of financial instruments are affected by the duration of the instruments and other factors used by market participants to estimate value. The carrying amounts for cash and equivalents, restricted cash, accounts receivable, and accounts payable approximate their estimated fair value because of the short durations of the instruments and inconsequential rates of interest.
Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash. Cash equivalents include cash involved in operations and cash in excess of daily requirements that is invested in highly liquid, short-term investments with initial maturities of three months or less when purchased.
Restricted cash balances consist of funds placed into an interest-bearing account to fund the completion of the Chamonix construction project, in accordance with the Company’s debt covenants.
Accounts Receivable and Credit Risk. Accounts receivable consist primarily of casino, hotel, certain sports wagering contracts that pay us in arrears, and other receivables. Accounts receivable are typically non-interest bearing, recorded initially at cost, and are carried net of an appropriate reserve to approximate fair value. Loss reserves are estimated based on specific review of customer accounts including the customers’ willingness and ability to pay and nature of collateral, if any, as well as historical collection experience and current and expected economic and business conditions. Accounts are written off when management deems the account to be uncollectible and recoveries of accounts previously written off are recorded when received.
9
Accounts receivable consists of the following:
628
343
Trade Accounts
3,326
3,479
Other Operations, excluding Contracted Sports Wagering
196
185
Contracted Sports Wagering1
1,932
1,665
582
6,000
6,521
Less: Provision for credit losses
(153)
(1,189)
The following table shows the movement in the provision for credit losses recognized for accounts receivable that occurred during the period:
Balance at January 1
1,189
249
Current period provision for (recovery of) credit losses
Write-offs
(1,251)
Balance at September 30
153
236
At September 30, 2024, estimated loss reserves reflect activity related to two online sports wagering agreements, which remain active in Colorado and Indiana. In July 2024, the Company’s respective subsidiaries in Colorado and Indiana each amended its respective sports wagering agreement, resulting in the collection of a total of $2.1 million. Specifically, these amendments settled overdue payments owed to the Company, reduced certain future annual amounts due to the Company under the sports wagering agreements, and now requires such annual fees to be paid in advance of each annual term. Except as set forth in the respective amendments, all other terms of the sports wagering agreements remain in full force and effect.
Management regularly evaluates the adequacy of the Company’s recorded reserves. At September 30, 2024, we believe that no significant concentrations of credit risk existed for which a reserve had not already been recorded.
Other Intangible Assets. In March 2023, the Company paid $50.3 million to the Illinois Gaming Board (“IGB”) for required gaming license fees to operate the temporary American Place facility, and upon its opening, the permanent facility. Management has deemed the gaming license in Illinois as having an indefinite economic life, as such license is eligible for renewal every four years if all regulatory requirements are met. There is an additional one-time reconciliation fee, based on interim gaming revenues, which is calculated three years after commencing operations and paid over the ensuing six years. The minimum present value of this long-term obligation was determined at September 30, 2024 to be $30.9 million, which is accounted for as an increase in the cost basis for the gaming license in Illinois. See Note 7 for details.
10
The minimum present value of the long-term obligation for the Company’s gaming license in Illinois consisted of the following, as discussed above:
Minimum IGB Reconciliation Fee*
42,574
22,092
Less: Amount representing interest
(11,675)
(7,187)
Minimum present value of IGB Reconciliation Fee
30,899
14,905
Additionally, during the second quarter of 2024, the Company retired $7.8 million of fully amortized intangible assets, which consisted primarily of acquired player loyalty programs. This resulted in net accumulated amortization of $0.4 million at September 30, 2024, compared to $8.1 million at December 31, 2023.
Revenue Recognition:
Accrued Club Points and Customer Loyalty Programs: Operating Revenues and Related Costs and Expenses. The Company’s revenues consist primarily of casino gaming, food and beverage, hotel, and other revenues (such as sports wagering, golf, RV park operations, and entertainment). The majority of the Company’s revenues are derived from casino gaming, principally slot machines.
The transaction price for a casino wager is the difference between gaming wins and losses, not the total amount wagered. As such wagers have similar characteristics, the Company accounts for its gaming transactions on a portfolio basis by recognizing net win per gaming day versus on an individual basis.
The Company sometimes provides discretionary complimentary goods and services (“discretionary comps”). For these types of transactions, the Company allocates revenue to the department providing the complimentary goods or services based upon its estimated standalone selling price, offset by a reduction in casino revenues.
Many of the Company’s casino customers choose to earn points under its customer loyalty programs. As points are accrued, the Company defers a portion of its casino revenue based on the estimated standalone value of loyalty points being earned by the customer. The standalone value of loyalty points is derived from the retail value of food, beverages, hotel rooms, and other goods or services for which such points may be redeemed. A liability related to these customer loyalty points is recorded, net of estimated breakage and other factors, until the customer redeems these points for various loyalty program benefits, primarily for “free casino play,” complimentary dining, or hotel stays, among others, depending on each property’s specific offers. Upon redemption, the related revenue is recognized at retail value within the department providing the goods or services. Unredeemed points are forfeited if the customer becomes and remains inactive for a specified period of time. Such liabilities were approximately $0.9 million at September 30, 2024 and $0.8 million at December 31, 2023, and these amounts are included in “other accrued expenses and current liabilities” on the condensed consolidated balance sheets.
Revenue for food and beverage, hotel, and other revenue transactions, as described in “Other Revenues” below, includes the retail value of (i) discretionary comps and (ii) comps provided in return for redemption of loyalty points. Additionally, the Company may collect deposits in advance for future hotel reservations or entertainment, among other services, which represent obligations of the Company until the service is provided to the customer.
11
Deferred Revenues: Market Access Fees from Sports Wagering Agreements. The Company entered into several agreements with various unaffiliated companies allowing for online sports wagering within Indiana, Colorado and Illinois, as well as on-site sports wagering at American Place (the “Sports Agreements”). As part of these long-term Sports Agreements, the Company received one-time “market access” fees, which are recorded as long-term liabilities and then recognized as revenue ratably over the initial contract terms (or as accelerated due to early termination), beginning with the earlier of operations commencement or contractual commencement. In the third quarter of 2023, a contracted party ceased online operations in Indiana and Colorado, thus creating one available skin in each state. Another contracted party ceased online operations in Colorado during the second quarter of 2024, resulting in $0.9 million of accelerated revenue from market access fees.
Indiana. Under the Company’s one active Sports Agreement in Indiana that commenced in December 2021, we receive a percentage of revenues (as defined), subject to an annualized minimum amount. Additionally, a $1.0 million market access fee, received upon signing of the agreement, is being amortized over the initial 10-year term of the agreement. In July 2024, the agreement was amended to settle overdue payments and to reduce future annual amounts for the remainder of the initial term through November 2031 (as well as for any renewal periods), which resulted in minimum annualized straight-line revenues of $0.5 million through the remainder of the current term. The Company also has two idle skins, which the Company could operate itself or allow third-party operators to utilize. There is no certainty that the Company will be able to enter into agreements with other third-party operators or successfully operate the skins itself.
Colorado. Similarly in Colorado, under the Company’s one active Sports Agreement that commenced in June 2020, we receive a percentage of revenues (as defined), subject to an annualized minimum amount. Additionally, a $1.0 million market access fee, received upon signing of the agreement, is being amortized over the initial 10-year term of the agreement. In July 2024, the agreement was amended to settle overdue payments and to reduce future annual amounts for the remainder of the initial term through June 2030 (as well as for any renewal periods), which resulted in minimum annualized straight-line revenues of $0.5 million through the remainder of the current term. The Company also has two idle skins, which the Company could operate itself or allow third-party operators to utilize. There is no certainty that the Company will be able to enter into agreements with other third-party operators or successfully operate the skins itself.
Illinois. Under the Company’s Sports Agreement in Illinois, we receive a percentage of revenues (as defined), subject to a minimum of $5.0 million per year. A market access fee of $5.0 million is being amortized over the eight-year term of the Sports Agreement, which began its contractual term in August 2023.
In addition to the market access fees, deferred revenue includes annual prepayments of contracted revenue. With the July 2024 amendment of two Sports Agreements, all of the Company’s active Sports Agreements require the prepayment of contracted revenue.
Deferred revenues consisted of the following, as discussed above:
Balance Sheet Location
Deferred revenue, current
2,250
6,175
Deferred revenue, net of current portion
7,006
12,367
Other Revenues. The transaction price of rooms, food and beverage, and retail contracts is the net amount collected from the customer for such goods and services. The transaction price for such contracts is recorded as revenue when the good or service is transferred to the customer over their stay at the hotel or when the delivery is made for the food, beverage, retail and other contracts. Sales and usage-based taxes are excluded from revenues.
Revenue by Source. The Company presents earned revenue as disaggregated by the type or nature of the good or service (casino, food and beverage, hotel, and other operations comprised mainly of retail, golf, entertainment, and contracted sports wagering) and by relevant geographic region within Note 9.
Income Taxes. For interim income tax reporting for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, the Company estimates its annual effective tax rate and applies it to its year-to-date pretax income or loss.
Reclassifications. The Company made certain minor financial statement presentation reclassifications to prior-period amounts to conform to the current-period presentation. Such reclassifications had no effect on the previously reported results of operations or financial position.
Earnings (Loss) Per Share. Earnings (loss) per share is net income (loss) applicable to common stock divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share reflects additional dilutive effects for all potentially-dilutive securities, including share-based awards outstanding under the Company’s stock compensation plan, using the treasury stock method.
Stockholders’ Equity and Stock Incentive Plans. In June 2024, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer adopted a Rule 10b5-1 Trading Plan designed to satisfy the affirmative defense conditions of Exchange Act Rule 10b5-1(c). His Rule 10b5-1 Trading Plan, which had a term until November 29, 2024, concluded in October 2024. This trading plan related to 943,834 options that were nearing their 10-year expiration date, with any stock sales intended to satisfy costs associated with the option exercise, including income taxes. Of the 943,834 options, 180,794 were returned to the Company to offset approximately $898,546 of option exercise costs. Of the remainder, 225,000 shares were sold under the Rule 10b5-1 Trading Plan (including 70,530 shares sold during the third quarter of 2024 and 154,470 shares sold during October 2024). Mr. Lee used such proceeds to pay the remaining option exercise costs due to the Company, and to pay the required withholding of income taxes related to the option exercise.
Leases. The Company determines if a contract is, or contains, a lease at inception or modification of the agreement. A contract is, or contains, a lease if there are identified assets and the right to control the use of an identified asset is conveyed for a period of time in exchange for consideration. Control over the use of the identified asset means that the lessee has both the right to obtain substantially all of the economic benefits from the use of the asset and the right to direct the use of the asset.
For material leases with terms greater than a year, the Company records right-of-use (“ROU”) assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet, as measured on a discounted basis. For finance leases, the Company recognizes interest expense associated with the lease liability, as well as depreciation (or amortization) expense associated with the ROU asset, depending on whether those ROU assets are expected to transfer to the Company upon lease expiration. If ownership of a finance lease ROU asset is expected to transfer to the Company upon lease expiration, then it is included with the Company’s property and equipment; other qualifying finance lease ROU assets, based on other classifying criteria under Accounting Standards Codification 842 (“ASC 842”), are disclosed separately as “Finance Lease Right-of-Use Assets, Net.” For operating leases, the Company recognizes straight-line rent expense.
The Company does not recognize ROU assets or lease liabilities for leases with a term of 12 months or less. However, costs related to short-term leases with terms greater than one month, which the Company deems material, are disclosed as a component of lease expenses when applicable. Additionally, the Company accounts for new and existing leases containing both lease and non-lease components (“embedded leases”) together as a single lease component by asset class for gaming-related equipment; therefore, the Company does not allocate contract consideration to the separate lease and non-lease components based on their relative standalone prices.
Finance and operating lease ROU assets and liabilities are recognized based on the present value of future minimum lease payments over the expected lease term at commencement, plus any qualifying initial direct costs paid prior to commencement for ROU assets. As the implicit rate is not determinable in most of the Company’s leases, management uses the Company’s incremental borrowing rate as estimated by third-party valuation specialists in determining the present value of future payments based on the information available at the commencement date and/or modification date. The expected lease terms include options to extend or terminate the lease when it is reasonably certain that the Company will exercise such options. Lease expense for minimum lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis over the expected lease term for operating leases. For finance leases, the ROU asset depreciates/amortizes on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the lease term or useful life of the ROU asset as applicable, and the lease liability accretes interest based on the interest method using the discount rate determined at lease commencement.
13
Preopening costs. Preopening costs are related to the preopening phases of new ventures, in accordance with accounting standards regarding start-up activities, and are expensed as incurred. These costs consist of payroll, advertising, outside services, organizational costs and other expenses directly related to both the Chamonix and American Place developments.
Debt Issuance Costs and Debt Discounts/Premiums. Debt issuance costs and debt discounts/premiums incurred in connection with the issuance of debt have been included as a component of the carrying amount of debt, and are amortized/accreted over the contractual term of the debt to interest expense, using the straight-line method, which approximates the effective interest method. When its existing debt agreements are determined to have been modified, the Company amortizes/accretes such costs to interest expense using the effective interest method over the terms of the modified debt agreement.
Accounting Pronouncements:
ASU 2023-09, Income Taxes, Topic 740, Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures (“Update 2023-09”). In December 2023, the FASB issued Update 2023-09 to improve income tax disclosure requirements, primarily related to rate reconciliations and income taxes paid. Update 2023-09 is effective for financial statements issued for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024, with early adoption permitted. The Company is evaluating the impact of the adoption of Update 2023-09 to the consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.
ASU 2023-07, Segment Reporting, Topic 280, Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures (“Update 2023-07”). In November 2023, the FASB issued Update 2023-07 to improve reportable segment disclosure requirements, primarily through enhanced disclosures about significant segment expenses. Update 2023-07 is to be applied retrospectively and is effective for financial statements issued for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2024, with early adoption permitted. The Company is evaluating the impact of the adoption of Update 2023-07 on the consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.
The Company believes that there are no other recently-issued accounting standards not yet effective that are currently likely to have a material impact on its financial statements.
3. ASSETS HELD FOR SALE
On August 28, 2024, the Company entered into an agreement with privately-owned Clarity Game Propco LLC (“Propco”) and Clarity Game Opco LLC (“Opco” and together with Propco, “Clarity”) to sell Stockman’s for total gross proceeds of $9.2 million, plus certain expected working capital adjustments at closing. The sale was designed to be completed in two phases: the sale of Stockman’s real property for $7.0 million to Propco, which closed on September 27, 2024; and the sale of certain remaining operating assets and related liabilities for $2.2 million (excluding any expected positive adjustments for working capital) to Opco, upon the receipt of customary gaming approvals. Since the disposition of Stockman’s is not expected to have a major effect on the Company’s operations and financial results, such sale does not qualify for presentation as discontinued operations.
To accommodate Clarity while it seeks its gaming approvals, the Company will temporarily continue to operate Stockman’s under the West segment. Upon the second closing that is expected to occur in early 2025, the Company will transfer all operations of Stockman’s to Opco. During the third quarter of 2024, the Company recognized a $2.0 million gain from the sale of Stockman’s real property to operating income, net of $0.7 million in transaction costs.
The carrying amounts of Stockman’s assets and liabilities held for sale consisted of the following:
Cash
250
46
Total current assets held for sale
296
378
1,809
Total assets held for sale
LIABILITIES
Total liabilities related to assets held for sale
4. LEASES
The Company has no material leases in which it is the lessor. As lessee, the Company has finance leases for a hotel and certain equipment, as well as operating leases for land, casino and office space, equipment, and buildings. The Company’s remaining material lease terms, including extensions, range from greater than one year to approximately 97 years. The Company’s lease agreements do not contain any material residual value guarantees or material restrictive covenants, but the land leases at Silver Slipper and American Place do include contingent rent, as further discussed below.
Operating Leases
Waukegan Ground Lease through February 2122 and Option to Purchase. In January 2023, the Company’s subsidiary, FHR-Illinois, LLC, entered into a 99-year ground lease (the “Ground Lease”) for approximately 32 acres of land (the “City-Owned Parcel”) with the City of Waukegan in Illinois (the “City”). The ground lease commenced concurrently with the opening of American Place on February 17, 2023. The City-Owned Parcel and an adjacent 10-acre parcel owned by the Company comprise the location of American Place, including its temporary facility. Annual rent under the Ground Lease is the greater of (i) $3.0 million (the “Annual Guaranteed Minimum Rent”), or (ii) 2.5% of gross gaming revenue (as defined in the lease) generated by American Place.
The Company has the right to purchase the City-Owned Parcel at any time during the term of the Ground Lease for $30 million. If it does so prior to the opening of the permanent American Place facility, then it must continue to pay rent due to the City under the Ground Lease until the permanent casino is open.
Silver Slipper Casino Land Lease through April 2058 and Option to Purchase. In 2004, the Company’s subsidiary, Silver Slipper Casino Venture, LLC, entered into a land lease for approximately 31 acres of marshlands and a seven-acre parcel on which the Silver Slipper Casino and Hotel is situated. Annual minimum rent is $0.9 million throughout the lease term until 2058, plus contingent rents of 3% of gross gaming revenue (as defined in the lease) in excess of $3.65 million per month.
Through October 1, 2027, the Company may buy out the lease for $15.5 million, plus a seller-retained interest in Silver Slipper Casino and Hotel’s operations of 3% of net income (as defined) for 10 years following the purchase date.
Bronco Billy’s / Chamonix Lease through January 2035 and Option to Purchase. The Company’s subsidiary, FHR-Colorado LLC, leases certain parcels, including a portion of the hotel and casino, under a long-term lease. The lease term includes six renewal options in three-year increments to 2035. The Company exercised its fourth renewal option to extend the lease term through January 2029, with current annual lease payments of $0.4 million. Annual minimum rent will increase to $0.5 million starting in February 2026 with adjustments on each anniversary thereafter, based on the consumer price index. The lease contains a $7.6 million purchase option exercisable at any time during the lease term, or as extended, and a right of first refusal on any sale of the property.
The Company’s related ROU asset and liability balances on its balance sheet factor in all renewal terms through January 2035, as the Company is deemed likely to exercise each renewal unless it exercises its purchase buyout right.
Grand Lodge Casino Lease through December 2034. The Company’s subsidiary, Gaming Entertainment (Nevada), LLC, has a lease (the “Hyatt Lease”) with Incline Hotel, LLC, the owner of the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort (“Hyatt Lake Tahoe”), to operate the Grand Lodge Casino. It is collateralized by the Company’s interests under the lease and property (as defined in the lease) and is subordinate to the liens of the Notes (see Note 5). The lessor has an option to purchase the Company’s leasehold interest and related operating assets of the Grand Lodge Casino at any time prior to lease expiration, subject to assumption of applicable liabilities. The option price is an amount equal to the Grand Lodge Casino’s positive working capital, plus Grand Lodge Casino’s earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the 12-month period preceding the acquisition (or pro-rated if less than 12 months remain on the lease), plus the fair market value of the Grand Lodge Casino’s personal property.
In July 2024, the lease was further amended to extend the term through December 31, 2034 and, additionally, permits the lessor to terminate the lease early with six months’ notice for a significant renovation of the property, on different terms than above. The current annual rent of $2.00 million will increase nominally in 2025 to $2.01 million, followed by annual increases of 2% for the remainder of the extended term. Except as set forth in the amendment, all other terms of the Hyatt Lease remain in full force and effect. Accordingly, the Company has remeasured this lease’s related ROU asset and liability balances upon the effective date of this amendment.
Corporate Office Lease through April 2030. The Company leases 4,479 square feet of office space in Las Vegas, Nevada. In September 2024, the Company entered into an amendment with the landlord to extend the lease through April 30, 2030. The current annual rent of $0.20 million will decline in February 2025 to $0.17 million, increase in February 2026 to $0.23 million, and then increase 3% annually on each anniversary for the remainder of the extended term. The amended lease also includes one renewal at the Company’s option for five years with rent to be determined at the fair market rate. Accordingly, the Company has remeasured this lease’s related ROU asset and liability balances upon the effective date of this amendment.
Stockman’s Sale-Leaseback. In connection with the sale of Stockman’s real estate that closed on September 27, 2024, the Company’s subsidiary, Stockman’s Casino, Inc., entered into a short-term lease with Propco for use of its facilities with monthly rent of $50,000. Such leaseback will terminate upon the second closing of the Stockman’s sale, when Opco has obtained the requisite gaming approvals to operate Stockman’s. See Note 3 for details.
Finance Lease
Rising Star Casino Hotel Lease through October 2027 and Option to Purchase. The Company’s Indiana subsidiary, Gaming Entertainment (Indiana) LLC, leases a 104-guestroom hotel at Rising Star Casino Resort. At any time during the lease term, the Company has the option to purchase the hotel, and approximately 3.01 acres of land on which it resides, at a price based upon the hotel’s original cost of $7.7 million, reduced by the cumulative principal payments made by the Company during the lease term. At September 30, 2024, such potential purchase price was $1.8 million. Upon expiration of the lease term in October 2027, (i) the landlord has the right to sell the hotel to the Company, and (ii) the Company has the option to purchase the hotel. In either case, the purchase price is $1 plus closing costs.
16
The components of lease expenses are as follows:
Classification within
Lease Costs
Statement of Operations
Operating leases:
Fixed/base rent
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
2,030
2,008
5,957
5,970
Short-term payments
31
22
Variable payments
340
281
919
935
Finance leases:
Amortization of leased assets
Depreciation and Amortization
382
412
1,131
1,113
Interest on lease liabilities
Interest Expense, Net
61
89
210
309
Total lease costs
2,844
2,790
8,248
8,349
Leases recorded on the balance sheet consist of the following:
Leases
Balance Sheet Classification
Assets
Operating lease assets
Operating Lease Right-of-Use Assets, Net
Finance lease assets
Property and Equipment, Net(1)
4,284
4,409
Finance Lease Right-of-Use Assets, Net(2)
Total lease assets
62,124
51,431
Liabilities
Current
Operating
Current Portion of Operating Lease Obligations
Finance
Current Portion of Finance Lease Obligations
Noncurrent
Operating Lease Obligations, Net of Current Portion
Finance Lease Obligations, Net of Current Portion
Total lease liabilities
60,228
49,431
Maturities of lease liabilities at September 30, 2024 are summarized as follows:
Years Ending December 31,
2024 (excluding the nine months ended September 30, 2024)
2,007
2025
7,883
1,721
2026
7,147
652
2027
6,847
2028
6,895
Thereafter
326,137
Total future minimum lease payments
356,916
3,351
(299,830)
Present value of lease liabilities
57,086
3,142
Less: Current lease obligations
(3,964)
(1,897)
Long-term lease obligations
Other information related to lease term and discount rate is as follows:
Lease Term and Discount Rate
Weighted-average remaining lease term
55.6
years
67.9
Finance leases
2.2
2.8
Weighted-average discount rate
10.85
%
10.91
7.00
7.46
Supplemental cash flow information related to leases is as follows:
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
Operating cash flows for operating leases
5,727
5,813
Operating cash flows for finance leases
Financing cash flows for finance leases
1,257
1,159
5. LONG-TERM DEBT
Long-term debt consists of the following:
Revolving Credit Facility due 2026
27,000
8.25% Senior Secured Notes due 2028
450,000
Less: Unamortized debt issuance costs and discounts/premiums, net
(9,611)
(11,847)
Senior Secured Notes due 2028. On February 12, 2021, the Company issued $310.0 million aggregate principal amount of 8.25% Senior Secured Notes due 2028 (the “2028 Notes”) to refinance all of its prior notes and repurchase all of its outstanding warrants. Additionally, $180 million of bond proceeds were initially placed into a construction reserve account to fund the construction of Chamonix, which was later increased to $221 million in January 2022 to reflect an expansion of the project.
On February 7, 2022, the Company closed a private offering for an additional $100.0 million of Senior Secured Notes due 2028, which sold at a price of 102.0% of such principal amount. Proceeds from this sale were used: (i) to develop, equip and open the temporary American Place facility, which the Company intends to operate while it designs and constructs its permanent facility, (ii) to pay the transaction fees and expenses of such offer and sale, and (iii) for general corporate purposes. The additional notes from this sale were issued pursuant to the indenture, dated February 12, 2021 (the “Original Indenture”), to which the Company issued the $310.0 million of 2028 Notes described above. In connection with the issuance of the additional notes in February 2022, the Company and the subsidiary guarantors party to the Original Indenture also entered into three Supplemental Indentures with Wilmington Trust, National Association, as trustee.
On February 21, 2023, the Company issued an additional $40.0 million of senior secured notes (the “Additional Notes”), thereby increasing the outstanding borrowing under the 2028 Notes to $450.0 million (collectively, the “Notes”). Related to the issuance of the Additional Notes, the Company further amended the indenture governing the Notes (collectively, the “Amended Indenture”) and amended its revolving credit facility. Proceeds from the offering of the Additional Notes, net of related expenses and discounts, were approximately $34 million and were used: (i) to open American Place, including the payment of related Illinois gaming license fees in March 2023, and (ii) for general corporate purposes. The Additional Notes are essentially identical to the 2028 Notes, as they are treated as a single series of senior secured debt securities with the 2028 Notes and also as a single class for all purposes under the Amended Indenture, including, without limitation, waivers, amendments, redemptions and offers to purchase.
The Notes bear interest at a fixed rate of 8.25% per year and mature on February 15, 2028. There is no mandatory debt amortization prior to the maturity date. Interest on the Notes is payable on February 15 and August 15 of each year.
The Notes are guaranteed, jointly and severally (such guarantees, the “Guarantees”), by each of the Company’s restricted subsidiaries (collectively, the “Guarantors”). The Notes and the Guarantees are the Company’s and the Guarantors’ general senior secured obligations, subject to the terms of the Collateral Trust Agreement (as defined in the Amended Indenture), ranking senior in right of payment to all of the Company’s and the Guarantors’ existing and future debt that is expressly subordinated in right of payment to the Notes and the Guarantees, if any. The Notes and the Guarantees will rank equally in right of payment with all of the Company’s and the Guarantors’ existing and future senior debt.
The Notes contain representations and warranties, covenants, and restrictions on dividends customary for notes of this type. Mandatory prepayments, in whole or in part, of the Notes will be required upon the occurrence of certain events, including sales of certain assets (unless such net proceeds are reinvested in the business), upon certain changes of control, or should the Company have certain unused funds in the construction disbursement account following the completion of Chamonix.
The Company may redeem some or all of the Notes for cash at the following redemption prices:
Redemption Periods
Percentage Premium
February 15, 2024 to February 14, 2025
104.125
February 15, 2025 to February 14, 2026
102.063
February 15, 2026 and Thereafter
100.000
19
Revolving Credit Facility due 2026. On February 7, 2022, the Company entered into a First Amendment to Credit Agreement with Capital One, N.A. (“Capital One”), which, among other things, increased the borrowing capacity under the Company’s Credit Agreement, dated March 31, 2021, from $15.0 million to $40.0 million. The amended $40.0 million senior secured revolving credit facility matures on March 31, 2026 and includes a letter of credit sub-facility. The senior secured revolving credit facility may be used for working capital and other ongoing general purposes.
On February 21, 2023, the Company entered into a Second Amendment to Credit Agreement with Capital One, which, among other things, increased the amount of additional indebtedness permitted under the Company’s Credit Agreement from $25.0 million to $40.0 million (collectively, the “Credit Facility”). Such amendment permitted the issuance of the Additional Notes, as described above.
The interest rate per annum applicable to loans under the Credit Facility is currently, at the Company’s option, either (i) SOFR plus a margin equal to 3.00% and a Term SOFR adjustment of 0.15%, or (ii) a base rate plus a margin equal to 2.00%. Terms regarding the annual commitment fee, customary letter of credit fees, and repayment date of March 31, 2026, remain unchanged from the original Credit Agreement, dated March 31, 2021.
The Credit Facility is equally and ratably secured by the same assets and guarantees securing the Notes. The Company may make prepayments of any amounts outstanding under the Credit Facility (without any reduction of the revolving commitments) in whole or in part at any time without penalty.
The Credit Facility contains a number of negative covenants that, subject to certain exceptions, are substantially similar to the covenants contained in the Notes. The Credit Facility also requires compliance with a financial covenant on the last day of each fiscal quarter, such that Adjusted EBITDA (as defined) for the trailing 12-month period must equal or exceed the utilized portion of the Credit Facility, if drawn. At September 30, 2024, the Company complied with this financial covenant and $27.0 million of borrowings were outstanding under the Credit Facility.
Fair Value of Long-Term Debt. The estimated fair value of the Notes was approximately $451.3 million at September 30, 2024 and $423.0 million at December 31, 2023, which values were estimated using quoted market prices (Level 1 inputs). The fair value of the Credit Facility approximates its carrying amount, as it is revolving, variable rate debt, and is classified as a Level 2 measurement.
6. INCOME TAXES
The Company’s effective income tax rates for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 were 1.5% and (0.7%), respectively, compared to effective income tax rates of (1.6%) and (3.8%) for the corresponding prior-year periods. The changes in the effective income tax rates were primarily due to the Company’s projections for pre-tax book income in 2024, the effects of tax amortization on indefinite-lived intangibles in 2024, and changes in valuation allowances. The Company’s income tax provision or benefit for interim periods has been determined using an estimate of its annual effective tax rate (“AETR”), adjusted for discrete items.
The Company continues to assess the realizability of deferred tax assets (“DTAs”) and concluded that it has not met the “more-likely-than-not” threshold. At September 30, 2024, the Company continues to provide a valuation allowance against its DTAs that cannot be offset by existing deferred tax liabilities. In accordance with Accounting Standards Codification 740 (“ASC 740”), this assessment has taken into consideration the jurisdictions in which these DTAs reside. The valuation allowance against DTAs has no effect on the actual taxes paid or owed by the Company.
7. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Litigation
The Company is party to a number of pending legal proceedings related to matters that occurred in the normal course of business. Management does not expect that the outcome of any such proceedings, either individually or in the aggregate, will have a material effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
Contingent Gaming License Fees in Illinois
As required for its gaming licensure at American Place, the Company is required to make a “Reconciliation Payment” to the State of Illinois. The Reconciliation Payment is calculated three years after the commencement of gaming operations in Illinois in an amount equal to 75% of the adjusted gross receipts for the most lucrative trailing 12-month period of operations, offset by certain licensing fees paid by the Company in the first quarter of 2023. The Reconciliation Payment is due in annual installments over a period of six years, beginning in 2026.
8. EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE
The table below reconciles basic and diluted (loss) earnings per share of common stock:
Numerator:
Net (loss) income ─ basic
Net (loss) income ─ diluted
Denominator:
Weighted-average common shares ─ basic
34,944
34,583
34,749
34,497
Potential dilution from share-based awards
2,090
Weighted-average common and common share equivalents ─ diluted
36,673
Anti-dilutive share-based awards excluded from the calculation of diluted (loss) earnings per share
3,580
1,108
4,067
3,998
9. SEGMENT REPORTING AND DISAGGREGATED REVENUE
The Company manages its reporting segments based on geographic regions within the United States and type of income. The Company’s management views the regions where each of its casino resorts are located as reportable segments, in addition to its contracted sports wagering segment. Reportable segments are aggregated based on geography, economic characteristics, types of customers, types of services and products provided, the regulatory environments in which they operate, and their management and reporting structure.
The Company utilizes Adjusted Segment EBITDA as the measure of segment profitability in assessing performance and allocating resources at the reportable segment level. Adjusted Segment EBITDA is defined as earnings before interest and other non-operating income (expense), taxes, depreciation and amortization, preopening expenses, impairment charges, asset write-offs, recoveries, gain (loss) from asset sales and disposals, project development and acquisition costs, non-cash share-based compensation expense, and corporate-related costs and expenses that are not allocated to each segment.
The following tables present the Company’s segment information:
Three Months Ended September 30, 2024
Contracted
Sports
Wagering
41,855
14,261
8,866
2,234
2,136
2,557
Other operations, includingcontracted sports wagering
1,653
335
1,790
54,510
19,387
Adjusted Segment EBITDA
10,249
1,198
2,037
13,484
Other operating costs and expenses:
(10,493)
Corporate expenses
(1,742)
(52)
(42)
2,000
(706)
Other expense:
Loss before income taxes
Income tax benefit
Three Months Ended September 30, 2023
40,341
9,899
8,242
844
2,369
191
Other operations,including contracted sports wagering
1,601
151
7,905
52,553
11,085
11,750
2,308
7,852
21,910
(8,468)
(1,280)
(21)
(1,051)
(7)
(726)
Income before income taxes
23
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024
125,815
36,659
26,059
5,213
6,269
5,018
6,456
681
6,933
164,599
47,571
35,206
1,928
6,549
43,683
(31,444)
(5,391)
(55)
(2,462)
(18)
(2,155)
Income tax provision
24
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2023
107,474
24,112
23,032
2,387
6,638
414
6,123
10,467
143,267
27,297
31,830
2,538
10,373
44,741
(22,482)
(3,479)
(45)
(12,634)
(2,129)
Other (expense) income:
Total Assets
294,674
298,072
364,446
372,875
977
Corporate and Other
9,413
16,533
25
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
This management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Please see “Forward-Looking Statements” for a discussion of the uncertainties, risks and assumptions that may cause our actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. This discussion should be read in conjunction with our historical financial statements and related notes thereto and the other disclosures contained elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, and the audited consolidated financial statements and notes for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023, which were included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on March 15, 2024. The results of operations for the periods reflected herein are not necessarily indicative of results that may be expected for future periods. Full House Resorts, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, may be referred to as “Full House,” the “Company,” “we,” “our” or “us,” except where stated or the context otherwise indicates.
Executive Overview
Our primary business is the ownership and/or operation of casino and related hospitality and entertainment facilities, which includes offering, among other amenities, casino gambling, hotel accommodations, dining, golf, RV camping, sports betting, entertainment and retail outlets.
The following table identifies our segments, along with properties and their locations:
We currently operate seven casinos: six on real estate that we own or lease and one located within a hotel owned by a third party. Additionally, we benefit from seven permitted sports wagering skins – three in Colorado, three in Indiana, and one in Illinois.
In February 2023, we opened our temporary American Place facility, which we are permitted to operate until August 2027. We have begun the design work for the permanent gaming resort facility that we plan to build on adjoining land. In August 2024, we entered into an agreement to sell Stockman’s to a privately owned company. In October 2024, we completed the phased opening of Chamonix, our newest property located adjacent to our existing Bronco Billy’s Casino.
Our financial results are dependent upon the number of patrons that we attract to our properties and the amounts those guests spend per visit. While we provide credit at some of our casinos where permitted by gaming regulations, most of our revenues are cash-based, through customers wagering with cash or paying for non-gaming services with cash or credit cards. Our revenues are primarily derived from slot machines, but also include other gaming activities, including table games, keno and sports betting. In addition, we derive a significant amount of revenue from our hotels and our food and beverage outlets. We also derive revenues from our golf course and ferry boat service at Rising Star, our RV parks owned at Rising Star and managed at Silver Slipper, and retail outlets and entertainment. We often provide hotel rooms, food and beverages, entertainment, ferry usage, and golf privileges to customers on a complimentary basis; the value of such services is included as revenue in those categories, offset by contra-revenue in the casino revenue category. As a result, the casino revenues in our financial statements reflect patron gaming wins and losses, reduced by the retail value of complimentary services, the value of free play provided to customers, the value of points earned by casino customers that can be redeemed for services or free play, and adjustments for certain progressive jackpots offered by the Company.
We set minimum and maximum betting limits for our slot machines and table games based on market conditions, customer demand and other factors. Our gaming revenues are derived from a broad base of guests that includes both high- and low-stakes players. At Silver Slipper, our sports book operations are in partnership with a company specializing in race and sports betting. At Rising Star, Bronco Billy’s, and American Place, we have contracted with other companies to operate our online sports wagering skins under their own brands in exchange for a percentage of revenues, as defined, subject to annual minimum amounts; the same company also operates our on-site sports book at American Place. Our operating results may also be affected by, among other things, overall economic conditions affecting the disposable income of our guests, weather conditions affecting access to our properties, achieving and maintaining cost efficiencies, taxation and other regulatory changes, and competitive factors, including but not limited to, additions and improvements to the competitive supply of gaming facilities, as well as pandemics and similar widespread health emergencies.
We may experience significant fluctuations in our quarterly operating results due to seasonality, variations in gaming hold percentages, and other factors. Consequently, our operating results for any quarter, especially contrasted with different seasonal quarters, are not necessarily comparable. Results for any particular quarter or year may not be indicative of future periods’ results.
Our market environment is highly competitive and capital-intensive. Nevertheless, there are significant restrictions and barriers to entry vis-à-vis opening new casinos in most of the markets in which we operate. We rely on the ability of our properties to generate operating cash flow to pay interest, repay debt, and fund maintenance and certain growth-related capital expenditures. We continuously focus on improving the operating margins of our existing properties through a combination of revenue growth and expense management. We also assess growth and development opportunities, which include capital investments at our existing properties, the development of new properties, and the acquisition of existing properties.
Recent Developments
Stockman’s Sale. On August 28, 2024, we entered into an agreement with privately-owned Clarity Game Propco LLC (“Propco”) and Clarity Game Opco LLC (“Opco” and together with Propco, “Clarity”) to sell Stockman’s for total gross proceeds of $9.2 million, plus certain expected working capital adjustments at closing. The sale was designed to be completed in two phases: the sale of Stockman’s real property for $7.0 million to Propco, which closed on September 27, 2024; and the sale of certain remaining operating assets and related liabilities for $2.2 million (excluding any expected positive adjustments for working capital) to Opco, upon the receipt of customary gaming approvals.
To accommodate Clarity while it seeks its gaming approvals, we will temporarily continue to operate Stockman’s under the West segment while leasing back the real property. Upon the second closing that is expected to occur in early 2025, we will transfer all operations of Stockman’s to Opco and the leaseback will terminate. During the third quarter of 2024, we recognized a $2.0 million gain from the sale of Stockman’s real property to operating income, net of $0.7 million in transaction costs.
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Chamonix Casino Hotel. Designed to integrate with our adjacent Bronco Billy’s Casino, Chamonix is the only luxury casino hotel located near the Colorado Springs metropolitan area. On December 27, 2023, we began its phased opening, starting with the casino, meeting space, and approximately one-third of its 300 guestrooms. The remainder of Chamonix’s guestrooms came online gradually during the first quarter. Our high-end steakhouse, 980 Prime, began welcoming its first guests in April 2024, while our rooftop pool and portions of our spa opened in late-May 2024. We completed the opening of Chamonix in the fourth quarter of 2024 with the jewelry store and the rest of the spa.
American Place. In February 2023, we opened our temporary American Place facility in Waukegan, Illinois, which we are permitted to operate until August 2027. American Place currently includes approximately 940 slot machines, 48 table games, a fine-dining restaurant, two additional restaurants, a center bar and a sportsbook. We have begun design work for the permanent American Place facility, which is expected to include a world-class casino, state-of-the-art sportsbook, premium boutique hotel comprised of 20 luxurious villas, and various food and beverage outlets.
Grand Lodge Casino Lease Extension through December 2034. In July 2024, our lease with the owner of the Hyatt Lake Tahoe to operate the Grand Lodge Casino was amended to further extend the current term through December 31, 2034. The current annual rent of $2.0 million will increase nominally in 2025, followed by annual increases of 2% for the remainder of this extended term. In the event of a significant renovation, the lessor may terminate the lease early with six months’ notice. Similar to previous lease arrangements, the lessor also has an option to purchase our leasehold interest and related operating assets of the Grand Lodge Casino at any time prior to lease expiration, subject to assumption of applicable liabilities. The option price is an amount equal to Grand Lodge Casino’s positive working capital, plus its earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the 12-month period preceding the acquisition (or pro-rated if less than 12 months remain on the lease), plus the fair market value of Grand Lodge Casino’s personal property.
Contracted Sports Wagering Amendments and Settlements. In July 2024, we amended two contracted sports wagering agreements, resulting in the collection of a total of $2.1 million. Specifically, these amendments settled overdue payments owed to our subsidiaries in Colorado and Indiana, reduced certain future annual amounts due to us under the agreements, and now requires such annual fees to be paid in advance of each annual term.
Key Performance Indicators
We use several key performance indicators to evaluate the operations of our properties. These key operating measures are presented as supplemental disclosures because management uses these measures to better understand period-over-period fluctuations in our casino and hotel operating revenues. These key performance indicators include the following and are disclosed in our discussions, where applicable, for certain jurisdictions on segment performance:
Gaming revenue indicators:
Slot coin-in is the gross dollar amount wagered in slot machines and table game drop is the total amount of cash or credit exchanged into chips at table games for use by our customers. Slot coin-in and table game drop are indicators of volume, and are monitored on a consolidated basis in relation to slot and table game win. Such metrics can be influenced by marketing activity and are not necessarily indicative of profitability trends.
Slot win is the difference between customer wagers and customer winnings on slot machines. Table game hold is the difference between the amount of money or markers exchanged into chips and customer winnings paid. Slot win and table game hold percentages represent the relationship between slot win and coin-in and table game win and drop. Both the slot win and table game hold percentages are monitored on a consolidated basis in our evaluation of Company performance.
Room revenue indicators:
Hotel occupancy rate is an indicator of the utilization of our available rooms. Complimentary room sales, or the retail value of accommodations gratuitously furnished to customers, are included in the calculation of the hotel occupancy rate.
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Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Segment EBITDA, Adjusted Segment EBITDA Margin and Adjusted Property EBITDA:
Management uses Adjusted EBITDA as a measure of our performance. For a description of Adjusted EBITDA, see “Non-GAAP Financial Measure.” We utilize Adjusted Segment EBITDA, a financial measure in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), as the measure of segment profitability in assessing performance and allocating resources at the reportable segment level. For information regarding our operating segments, see Note 9. In addition, we use Adjusted Segment EBITDA Margin, which is calculated by dividing Adjusted Segment EBITDA by the segment’s total revenues.
Same-store Adjusted Segment EBITDA is Adjusted Segment EBITDA further adjusted to exclude the Adjusted Property EBITDA of properties that have not been in operation for a full year. Adjusted Property EBITDA is defined as earnings before interest and other non-operating income (expense), taxes, depreciation and amortization, preopening expenses, impairment charges, asset write-offs, recoveries, gain (loss) from asset sales and disposals, project development and acquisition costs, non-cash share-based compensation expense, and corporate-related costs and expenses that are not allocated to each property.
Results of Operations
Consolidated operating results
The following tables summarize our consolidated operating results for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023:
Increase /
(Decrease)
5.8
21.0
Operating expenses
19.7
21.4
(76.4)
4.9
Interest and other non-operating expenses, net
11,047
5,838
89.2
32,320
15,935
102.8
70.3
(53.3)
(284.5)
128.4
Increase
Casino revenues
Slots
47,007
41,215
14.1
135,609
110,764
22.4
Table games
8,997
8,898
1.1
26,539
20,497
29.5
112
127
(11.8)
326
325
0.3
11.7
23.5
Non-casino revenues, net
22.2
23.0
83.3
60.1
(60.9)
(17.1)
19,571
21,303
(8.1)
56,629
49,445
14.5
Total revenues
Slot coin-in
802,072
727,889
10.2
2,302,698
1,932,114
19.2
Slot win(1)
62,201
52,713
18.0
174,610
142,384
22.6
Slot hold percentage(2)
7.8
7.2
0.6
pts
7.6
7.4
0.2
Table game drop
55,733
47,621
17.0
150,472
113,330
32.8
Table game win(1)
9,185
8,998
2.1
27,038
20,711
30.5
Table game hold percentage(2)
16.5
18.9
(2.4)
18.3
(0.3)
The following discussion is based on our condensed consolidated financial statements for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023.
Revenues. Consolidated total revenues increased by 5.8% (or $4.1 million) and 21.0% (or $38.1 million) for the respective three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, compared to the prior-year periods. This was primarily due to a full nine months of operations in 2024 at American Place, which opened on February 17, 2023. Revenues during the 2024 periods also benefited from the phased opening of Chamonix, which began operations on December 27, 2023.
For more information, see “Supplemental Information – Same-store Operating Results.”
Operating Expenses. Consolidated operating expenses increased by 19.7% (or $12.1 million) and 21.4% (or $37.9 million) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, compared to the prior-year periods. These increases were primarily due to the commencement of operations at American Place in February 2023 and Chamonix in December 2023 and resulted in increased casino, food and beverage, hotel, selling, general and administrative and depreciation expenses. For American Place, these expenses included a $4.4 million increase in selling, general and administrative costs for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, compared to the prior-year period. For Chamonix, these expenses included a $7.2 million increase in selling, general and administrative costs, as well as a $10.8 million increase in depreciation and amortization for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, compared to the prior-year period.
See further information within our reportable segments described below.
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Interest and Other Non-Operating Expenses.
Interest Expense
Interest expense, net, consists of the following:
Interest expense (excluding bond fee amortization and discounts/premiums)
10,585
10,436
31,461
29,518
Amortization of debt issuance costs and discounts/premiums
751
Capitalized interest
(136)
(4,522)
(697)
(12,092)
Interest income and other
(798)
(680)
(3,149)
5,867
16,319
The increases in net interest expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 were primarily due to reductions in capitalized interest, as construction of the temporary American Place facility and Chamonix was largely complete during the 2024 periods. Additionally, as we invested cash into the construction of both projects, our cash balances were lower during the 2024 period, resulting in reduced interest income. Further, we issued $40.0 million of Additional Notes in February 2023, so the prior-year period reflects only a partial quarter of the related interest expense.
Other Non-Operating Expenses, Net
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, we had no other non-operating expense. For the three months ended September 30, 2023, we had other non-operating income of $29,000, consisting of net settlement proceeds from a sports wagering contract that ended in May 2022. For the nine months ended September 30, 2023, we had other non-operating income of $0.4 million, consisting primarily of insurance settlement proceeds from hurricane damage at Silver Slipper in 2020.
Income Tax Expense. We recognized an income tax benefit of $0.1 million and an income tax provision of $0.2 million for the respective three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, which resulted in effective income tax rates of 1.5% and (0.7%), respectively. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, we recognized an income tax benefit of $74,000 and an income tax provision of $0.5 million, which resulted in effective income tax rates of (1.6%) and (3.8%), respectively. The changes in the effective income tax rates were primarily due to the effects of tax amortization on indefinite-lived intangibles in 2024, as well as changes in valuation allowances.
While we paid $0.5 million in state income taxes to Illinois during the current year related to our prior-year results, we are unable to determine if we would pay any state income taxes or receive any state tax refunds related to our 2024 results until year-end. However, we do not expect to pay any federal income taxes or receive any federal tax refunds related to our 2024 results. As we have incurred losses in prior periods, we anticipate any current-year taxable income will be offset by tax carryforwards from prior years. We continue to evaluate, on a quarterly basis, the ability to realize our deferred tax assets and the need for a valuation allowance. The valuation allowance, and the potential reversal of such allowance, have no bearing on the taxes actually paid by the Company.
Operating Results – Reportable Segments
We manage our casinos based primarily on geographic regions within the United States and type of income. For more information, please refer to our earlier discussion within “Executive Overview” above.
The following table presents detail by segment of our consolidated revenues and Adjusted EBITDA; see “Non-GAAP Financial Measure” for additional information. Additionally, management uses Adjusted Segment EBITDA as the measure of segment profitability in accordance with GAAP.
3.7
14.9
74.9
74.3
(77.4)
(33.8)
Adjusted Segment EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA
(12.8)
10.6
(48.1)
(24.0)
(74.1)
(36.9)
(38.5)
Corporate
36.1
55.0
Adjusted EBITDA
11,742
20,630
(43.1)
38,292
41,262
(7.2)
Adjusted Segment EBITDA Margin
18.8
(3.6)
(0.8)
6.2
20.8
(14.6)
4.1
9.3
(5.2)
113.8
99.3
94.5
99.1
(4.6)
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Supplemental Information – Same-store Operating Results
The following table presents the financial results of our Midwest & South operations on a same-store basis for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 for revenues and Adjusted Segment EBITDA; see “Non-GAAP Financial Measure” for additional information.
Same-store operations exclude results of new and acquired operating segments that have not operated for longer than a year, starting from the date of commencement or acquisition through the end of the reporting period. Accordingly, for Midwest & South, we have excluded the results of American Place for periods subsequent to its commencement of operations.
Midwest & South same-store total revenues(1)
26,385
28,663
(7.9)
83,422
88,629
(5.9)
American Place
28,125
23,890
17.7
81,177
54,638
48.6
Midwest & South total revenues
Midwest & South same-store Adjusted Segment EBITDA(1)
2,543
4,966
(48.8)
12,533
17,341
(27.7)
6,784
13.6
22,673
14,489
56.5
Midwest & South Adjusted Segment EBITDA
Midwest & South same-store Adjusted Segment EBITDA margin(1)
9.6
17.3
(7.7)
15.0
19.6
27.4
28.4
(1.0)
27.9
26.5
1.4
Midwest & South Adjusted Segment EBITDA margin
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The following table presents the financial results of our Contracted Sports Wagering operations on a same-store basis for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 for revenues and Adjusted Segment EBITDA; see “Non-GAAP Financial Measure” for additional information.
Same-store operations exclude results of new and acquired operating segments that have not operated for longer than a year, starting from the date of commencement or acquisition through the end of the reporting period. Accordingly, for Contracted Sports Wagering, we have excluded the results in Illinois for periods subsequent to its contractual commencement of revenue payments.
Contracted Sports Wagering same-store total revenues(1)
315
1,370
(77.0)
1,690
3,932
(57.0)
Accelerated revenues due to contract terminations(2)
5,794
N.M.
893
(84.6)
1,475
741
4,350
487.0
Contracted Sports Wagering total revenues
Contracted Sports Wagering same-store Adjusted Segment EBITDA(1)
620
1,336
(53.6)
1,448
3,857
(62.5)
1,417
722
96.3
4,208
482.8
Contracted Sports Wagering Adjusted Segment EBITDA
Contracted Sports Wagering same-store Adjusted Segment EBITDA margin(1)
196.8
97.5
85.7
98.1
(12.4)
96.1
97.4
(1.3)
96.7
(0.7)
Contracted Sports Wagering Adjusted Segment EBITDA margin
N.M. Not meaningful.
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Our Midwest & South segment includes Silver Slipper, Rising Star and American Place. Total revenues for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 increased by 3.7% (or $2.0 million) and 14.9% (or $21.3 million), respectively, due to the continued ramp-up of operations at American Place. Additionally, the nine-month period in 2023 reflects only a partial period of operations at American Place, which opened in February 2023. Excluding results from American Place, same-store revenues declined by 7.9% (or $2.3 million) and 5.9% (or $5.2 million) for the respective three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, in part due to adverse winter weather over several weekend periods during the first quarter of 2024, followed by severe storms and tornados in the second quarter, as well as an active storm season in the Silver Slipper’s Mississippi Gulf Coast area, where several significant storms adversely impacted visitation to the property during the third quarter of 2024.
Reflecting the February 2023 opening of American Place, casino revenue increased by 3.8% (or $1.5 million) and 17.1% (or $18.3 million) for the respective three and nine months ended September 30, 2024. For the three months ended September 30, 2024, slot revenue for the segment increased by 5.3% (or $1.8 million), while table games revenue declined by 3.2% (or $0.2 million). For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, slot revenue for the segment increased by 14.5% (or $13.1 million), and table games revenue increased by 31.4% (or $5.3 million). Excluding results from American Place, same-store casino revenue declined by 10.5% (or $1.9 million) and 9.1% (or $5.1 million) for the respective three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, primarily due to lower slot and table games volumes at Silver Slipper and Rising Star. In addition to the adverse weather noted above, Rising Star continues to compete with a racetrack casino that opened in September 2022 in Northern Kentucky.
Non-casino revenue increased by 3.6% (or $0.4 million) and 8.4% (or $3.0 million) for the respective three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, primarily due to increases in food and beverage revenue. Food and beverage revenue rose 7.6% (or $0.6 million) and 13.1% (or $3.0 million) for the respective current-year periods, reflecting increased operating hours and the February 2024 opening of a new restaurant at American Place.
Adjusted Segment EBITDA declined by 12.8% (or $1.5 million), but rose by 10.6% (or $3.4 million) for the respective three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, reflecting improved efficiencies at American Place versus its first year of operations. Adjusted Property EBITDA at American Place was $7.7 million and $22.7 million for the respective 2024 periods. Such amounts reflect growth of 13.6% and 56.5% when compared to Adjusted Property EBITDA of $6.8 million and $14.5 million for the respective 2023 periods. Same-store Adjusted Segment EBITDA declined from $5.0 million to $2.5 million (or 48.8%), and from $17.3 million to $12.5 million (or 27.7%), for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, primarily due to overall declines in casino revenues and adverse weather through the third quarter of 2024 at Silver Slipper.
Our West segment includes Bronco Billy’s, Chamonix, Grand Lodge, and Stockman’s, which is currently held for sale (see Note 3). The market in Cripple Creek, Colorado, is typically seasonal, favoring the summer months. Our Nevada operations have historically been seasonal, with the summer months accounting for a disproportionate share of annual revenues. Additionally, snowfall levels during the winter months can often affect operations, as Grand Lodge is located near several major ski resorts. While Grand Lodge typically benefits from a “good” snow year, resulting in extended periods of operation at the nearby ski areas, excessive snow levels can also result in challenging driving conditions or the closure of roads leading to the property.
Total revenues increased by 74.9% (or $8.3 million) and 74.3% (or $20.3 million) for the respective three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, primarily due to the phased opening of Chamonix, which was designed to integrate with existing operations at Bronco Billy’s.
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Casino revenue increased by 44.1% (or $4.4 million) and 52.0% (or $12.5 million) for the respective three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, reflecting contributions from Chamonix and improved operating conditions at Bronco Billy’s. Slot revenue accounted for most of the increases in the respective 2024 periods. It increased by 49.5% (or $4.0 million) and 57.5% (or $11.8 million), despite decreases in slot volumes at Grand Lodge for the current-year periods. Table games revenue rose by $0.3 million (or 18.7%) and $0.7 million (or 20.4%) for the respective three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, attributable mostly to our Colorado operations.
Non-casino revenue increased by 331.9% (or $3.9 million) and 242.4% (or $7.7 million) for the respective three and nine months ended September 30, 2024. Food and beverage revenues increased by $1.4 million and $2.8 million for the respective 2024 periods, and hotel revenues rose by $2.4 million and $4.6 million, respectively. These improvements came from Chamonix, which gradually opened its approximately 300-room hotel throughout the first quarter of 2024. Guest volume increases from Chamonix’s new hotel also benefited food and beverage venues throughout Chamonix and Bronco Billy’s.
Adjusted Segment EBITDA declined by $1.1 million and $0.6 million for the respective three and nine months ended September 30, 2024. Current-period results reflect the phased opening of Chamonix, which is currently operating less efficiently than we expect it to in future quarters. Elevated expenses include the training of new employees and additional marketing costs expected to benefit future operations, as well as the cost of operating many amenities at the new resort while continuing to complete construction. Results in the current-year period also reflect significant snowfall over several weekends, when guest traffic at our casinos is typically strongest, and the loss of electrical power to the entire city of Cripple Creek for three days, both in the first quarter of 2024.
The Contracted Sports Wagering segment consists of our on-site and online sports wagering skins in Colorado, Indiana and Illinois.
For the three months ended September 30, 2024, revenues declined by 77.4%, from $7.9 million in the prior-year period to $1.8 million, and Adjusted Segment EBITDA declined by 74.1%, from $7.9 million to $2.0 million. For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, revenues declined by 33.8%, from $10.5 million in the prior-year period to $6.9 million, and Adjusted Segment EBITDA declined by 36.9%, from $10.4 million to $6.5 million. These results reflect contract terminations in the prior-year period, which resulted in the acceleration of deferred revenues totaling $5.8 million. During the current nine-month period, a sports wagering agreement in Colorado was terminated early in April 2024, resulting in $0.9 million of accelerated revenues. Additionally, settlement payments from a contracted sports wagering operator resulted in the reversal of certain prior-period credit loss provisions. As a result, $0.2 million of earnings was recaptured in the third quarter of 2024, and the Adjusted Segment EBITDA margin rose to 113.8%.
The segment’s results also reflect the launch of our permitted Illinois sports skin in August 2023. Under the Illinois sports wagering agreement, we receive a percentage of online revenues (as defined), subject to an annualized minimum of $5 million, with minimal expected expenses. We also receive a percentage of on-site sports revenue, as defined. For the three months ended September 30, 2024, this agreement contributed $1.5 million to revenues and $1.4 million to Adjusted Segment EBITDA. For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, such amounts were $4.4 million and $4.2 million, respectively. For both of the prior-year periods, the Illinois sports wagering agreement contributed $0.7 million to revenues and also to Adjusted Segment EBITDA.
We currently have two idle sports skins in each of Indiana and Colorado. We continue to evaluate whether to operate these idle skins ourselves or to have other third-party operators utilize them. However, there is no certainty that we will be able to enter into agreements with other third-party operators or successfully operate the skins ourselves.
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Corporate expenses for the respective three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 rose by 36.1% (or $0.5 million) and 55.0% (or $1.9 million), primarily due to increases in accrued bonus compensation, as compared to the prior-year periods. Corporate expenses were $1.7 million and $1.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively. For the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, corporate expenses were $5.4 million and $3.5 million, respectively.
Non-GAAP Financial Measure
“Adjusted EBITDA” is earnings before interest and other non-operating income (expense), taxes, depreciation and amortization, preopening expenses, impairment charges, asset write-offs, recoveries, gain (loss) from asset sales and disposals, project development and acquisition costs, and non-cash share-based compensation expense. Adjusted EBITDA information is presented solely as supplemental disclosure to measures reported in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”) because management believes this measure is (i) a widely used measure of operating performance in the gaming and hospitality industries and (ii) a principal basis for valuation of gaming and hospitality companies. In addition, a version of Adjusted EBITDA (known as Consolidated Cash Flow) is utilized in the covenants within the Credit Facility, although not necessarily defined in the same way as above. Adjusted EBITDA is not, however, a measure of financial performance or liquidity under GAAP. Accordingly, this measure should be considered supplemental and not a substitute for net income (loss) or cash flows as an indicator of the Company’s operating performance or liquidity.
The following table presents a reconciliation of net (loss) income and operating income to Adjusted EBITDA:
(29)
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The following tables present reconciliations of operating income (loss) to Adjusted Segment EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA.
Adjusted
Segment
Depreciation
Gain on
Project
Stock-
EBITDA and
Income
and
Sale of
Development
Preopening
Based
(Loss)
Amortization
Stockman’s
Costs
Compensation
EBITDA
Reporting segments
4,091
6,158
(1,141)
4,297
4,987
10,455
(2,538)
38
Loss on
Disposal
of Assets
4,156
7,828
(241)
406
1,292
12,414
8,438
(2,057)
Operating expenses deducted to arrive at operating income (loss) in the above tables for the three-month periods ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, included facility rents related to: (i) Midwest & South of $1.4 million during each of 2024 and 2023, and (ii) West of $0.6 million in 2024 and $0.5 million in 2023.
16,134
18,935
119
(10,827)
12,412
2,343
11,856
31,347
(7,698)
97
1,322
20,640
9,861
(1,985)
1,750
2,773
9,710
22,390
(5,745)
92
Operating expenses deducted to arrive at operating income (loss) in the above tables for the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, included facility rents related to: (i) Midwest & South of $4.1 million in 2024 and $3.7 million in 2023, and (ii) West of $1.9 million in 2024 and $1.5 million in 2023.
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Liquidity and Capital Resources
Cash Flows
At September 30, 2024, we had $33.6 million of cash and equivalents, including $7.7 million of restricted cash dedicated to Chamonix’s construction. In October 2024, we substantially completed construction of Chamonix, which began opening in phases since December 2023. We estimate that between $10 million and $15 million of cash is used in our current day-to-day operations, including on-site cash in our slot machines, change and redemption kiosks, and cages. We believe that current cash balances, together with the available borrowing capacity under our revolving credit facility and cash flows from operating activities, will be sufficient to meet our liquidity and capital resource needs for the next 12 months of operations. Over the last several years, we invested in two large construction projects that are now open to the public: American Place, which opened in February 2023, and Chamonix, as noted above. Such construction activity is now substantially completed.
Cash flows – operating activities. On a consolidated basis, cash used in operations during the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was $1.0 million, compared to cash provided by operations of $3.2 million in the prior-year period. Trends in our operating cash flows tend to follow trends in operating income, excluding non-cash charges, but are also affected by changes in working capital. During the current period, we benefited from a full nine months of operations at American Place, which opened in February 2023. Net interest expense rose when compared to the prior-year period, the result of declines in both interest income and capitalized interest, as we began the phased opening of Chamonix in December 2023.
Cash flows – investing activities. On a consolidated basis, cash used in investing activities during the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was $37.7 million. These investments primarily related to the construction of Chamonix, partially offset by proceeds from the sale of Stockman’s. Cash used in investing activities during the prior-year period was $169.8 million, which included a gaming license payment of $50.3 million required to open American Place, as well as capital expenditures to construct Chamonix and American Place.
Cash flows – financing activities. On a consolidated basis, cash used in financing activities during the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was $1.3 million, compared to cash provided by financing activities of $59.4 million in the prior-year period. During 2023, net borrowings from the Credit Facility totaled $27.0 million, and we received $40.0 million of gross proceeds from the issuance of our Additional Notes to open American Place.
Other Factors Affecting Liquidity
We have significant outstanding debt and contractual obligations. Our principal debt matures in February 2028. Certain planned capital expenditures designed to grow the Company, such as the permanent American Place facility, may require additional financing and/or temporarily reduce the Company’s ability to repay debt.
Our operations are subject to financial, economic, competitive, regulatory and other factors, many of which are beyond our control. Such future developments are highly uncertain and cannot be accurately predicted at this time.
Debt
Long-term Debt. At September 30, 2024, we had $450.0 million of principal indebtedness outstanding under the Notes and $27.0 million outstanding under the Credit Facility. We also owe $1.8 million related to our finance lease of a hotel at Rising Star. With the exception of the Credit Facility, all of our debt is at fixed interest rates. See Note 5 for details on our debt obligations.
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Capital Investments. In addition to normal maintenance capital expenditures, we made significant capital investments related to the completion of Chamonix, and we expect to do the same for the permanent American Place facility.
Chamonix. We completed the phased opening of Chamonix in October 2024, with the property’s high-end steakhouse opening in April 2024, its rooftop pool and portions of its spa opening in May 2024, and completion of its spa and jewelry store in the second half of 2024. To fund Chamonix’s construction, we issued our 2028 Notes and placed a portion of such proceeds into a restricted cash account dedicated to the completion of its construction (see Note 5). At September 30, 2024, the balance of such restricted cash account was approximately $7.7 million.
American Place. We were selected by the IGB to develop and operate American Place in Waukegan, Illinois. While the larger permanent facility is under development, we are operating the temporary American Place facility, which opened in February 2023. Lawsuits were filed by an unsuccessful bidder for the Waukegan gaming license, against parties unrelated to us. As a result of such lawsuits, we sought and received an extension period in which we can operate the temporary casino, which now extends to August 2027. We expect to internally generate a portion of the needed funds to complete American Place, but we will likely need additional financing. While there is no certainty that we will be able to do so, we intend to arrange such additional funding with the refinancing of our existing debt. Such debt is currently callable and otherwise scheduled to mature in February 2028.
Other Capital Expenditures. Additionally, we may fund various other capital expenditure projects, depending on our financial resources. Our capital expenditures may fluctuate due to decisions regarding strategic capital investments in new or existing facilities, and the timing of capital investments to maintain the quality of our properties. No assurance can be given that any of our planned capital expenditure projects will be completed or that any completed projects will be successful. Our annual capital expenditures typically include some number of new slot machines and related equipment; to some extent, we can coordinate such purchases to match our resources.
We evaluate projects based on a number of factors, including profitability forecasts, length of the development period, the regulatory and political environment, and the ability to secure the funding necessary to complete the development or acquisition, among other considerations. No assurance can be given that any additional projects will be pursued or completed or that any completed projects will be successful.
Hyatt Owner’s Option to Purchase our Leasehold Interest and Related Assets. Our lease with the owner of the Hyatt Lake Tahoe to operate the Grand Lodge Casino has been extended several times and currently expires on December 31, 2034. In the event of a significant renovation, the lessor may terminate the lease early with six months’ notice. Similar to previous lease arrangements, the lessor also has the ability to purchase our leasehold interest and related casino operating assets at any time prior to lease expiration. See Note 4 for more information.
Off-balance Sheet Arrangements
We have no off-balance sheet arrangements, as defined in Item 303(a)(4)(ii) of Regulation S-K, that have, or are reasonably likely to have, a current or future effect on our financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures, or capital resources that are material to investors.
Critical Accounting Estimates and Policies
We describe our critical accounting estimates and policies in Note 2, Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023. We also discuss our critical accounting estimates and policies in Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, in our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023. There has been no significant change in our estimation methods since the end of 2023.
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Forward-Looking Statements
This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”) for which the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a safe harbor. These forward-looking statements can be identified by use of terms such as “believes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “plans,” “intends,” “objectives,” “goals,” “aims,” “projects,” “forecasts,” “future,” “possible,” “seeks,” “may,” “could,” “should,” “will,” “might,” “likely,” “enable,” or similar words or expressions, as well as statements containing phrases such as “in our view,” “we cannot assure you,” “although no assurance can be given,” or “there is no way to anticipate with certainty.” Examples of forward-looking statements include, among others, statements we make regarding our plans, beliefs or expectations regarding our growth strategies; our expected construction budgets, estimated commencement and completion dates, expected amenities, and our expected operational performance for Chamonix and American Place, including its permanent facility; our expectations regarding the legal proceedings related to the process whereby we were granted the gaming license for American Place; our expectations regarding our ability to generate operating cash flow and to obtain debt financing on reasonable terms and conditions for the construction of the permanent American Place facility; our investments in capital improvements and other projects, including the amounts of such investments, the timing of commencement or completion of such capital improvements and projects, and the resulting impact on our financial results; our sports wagering contracts with third-party providers, including the expected revenues and expenses and our expectations regarding the operation and usage of our available idle sports wagering contracts, our ability to replace any terminated sports wagering contracts or our ability to operate sports wagering contracts ourselves; adequacy of our financial resources to fund operating requirements and planned capital expenditures and to meet our debt and contractual obligations; expected sources of revenue; anticipated sources of funds; anticipated or potential legislative actions; beliefs in connection with our marketing efforts; factors that affect the financial performance of our properties; adequacy of our insurance; competitive outlook; outcome of legal and litigation matters; impact of recently issued accounting standards; and estimates regarding certain accounting and tax matters, among others.
Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on our current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding the future of our business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Our actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, among others, those risks discussed in Part I, Item 1A—Risk Factors and throughout Part II, Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, and in Part II, Item 1A—Risk Factors and elsewhere of this Form 10-Q. In addition, you should consult other disclosures made by us (such as in our other filings with the SEC or in company press releases) for other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those projected by us. You should read this Form 10-Q, and the documents that we reference in this Form 10-Q and have filed with the SEC, and our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, with the understanding that our actual future results, levels of activity, performance, and events and circumstances may be materially different from what we expect.
We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements as a result of future developments, events or conditions, except as required by law. New risks emerge from time to time and it is not possible for us to predict all such risk factors, nor can we assess the impact of all such risk factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ significantly from those forecast in any forward-looking statements. You should also be aware that while we communicate from time to time with securities analysts, we do not disclose to them any material non-public information, internal forecasts or other confidential business information. Therefore, you should not assume that we agree with any statement or report issued by any analyst, irrespective of the content of the statement or report. To the extent that reports issued by securities analysts contain projections, forecasts or opinions, those reports are not our responsibility and are not endorsed by us.
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
Not applicable.
Item 4. Controls and Procedures
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures — At September 30, 2024, we completed an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in the Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)). Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that, at September 30, 2024, our disclosure controls and procedures are effective at a reasonable assurance level in timely alerting them to material information relating to us, which is required to be included in our periodic SEC filings.
We have established controls and procedures designed at the reasonable assurance level to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms and is accumulated and communicated to management, including the principal executive officer and the principal financial officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting — There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the last fiscal quarter that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Item 5. Other Information
Insider Trading Arrangements — On August 22, 2024, Lewis Fanger, our Chief Financial Officer, modified a trading arrangement for the sale of securities of our common stock (a “Rule 10b5-1 Trading Plan”) that is intended to satisfy the affirmative defense conditions of Exchange Act Rule 10b5-1(c). Mr. Fanger’s Rule 10b5-1 Trading Plan, which has a term until January 29, 2025, provides for the sale of up to 250,000 shares of common stock pursuant to one or more market or limit orders. This trading plan relates to certain options that are nearing their 10-year expiration date.
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
We are subject to various legal and administrative proceedings relating to personal injuries, employment matters, commercial transactions and other matters arising in the normal course of business. We do not believe that the final outcome of these matters will have a material adverse effect on our condensed consolidated financial position or results of operations. We maintain what we believe is adequate insurance coverage to further mitigate the risks of such proceedings.
Item 1A. Risk Factors
There were no material changes from the risk factors set forth under Part I, Item 1A “Risk Factors” section of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Item 6. Exhibits
ExhibitNumber
Description
31.1*
Certification of principal executive officer pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(a)/15(d)-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
31.2*
Certification of principal financial officer pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(a)/15(d)-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.1**
Certification of principal executive officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.2**
Certification of principal financial officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
101.INS*
Inline XBRL Instance Document
101.SCH*
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CAL*
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEF*
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
101.LAB*
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE*
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
104*
Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL with applicable taxonomy extension information contained in Exhibits 101)
* Filed herewith.
** Furnished herewith.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, the Company has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
Date: November 6, 2024
By:
/s/ DANIEL R. LEE
Daniel R. Lee
Chief Executive Officer
(on behalf of the Registrant and as principal executive officer)
/s/ LEWIS A. FANGER
Lewis A. Fanger
Chief Financial Officer
(on behalf of the Registrant and as principal financial officer and as principal accounting officer)