Accel Entertainment, Inc.: Form 10-Q for the period ended Mar 31, 2026
Filed with the SEC on May 5, 2026 and accepted by EDGAR at May 5, 2026, 16:19 ET.
Management's discussion and analysis
As filed, 37,468 characters, with its headings, lists and tables. Extracted from the main document; charts and exhibits are in the original on sec.gov.
You should read the following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations in conjunction with our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and the related notes and other financial information included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. This discussion and analysis contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as “believe,” “expect,” “plans,” “intend,” “may,” “strategy,” “prospects,” “estimate,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “project,” “target,” “anticipate,” and other similar words and involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual results could differ materially from the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include those discussed in the section titled “Risk Factors” included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025. Any forward-looking statements made by us speak only as of the date on which they are made. We are under no obligation to, and expressly disclaims any obligation to, update or alter its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, subsequent events or otherwise, except as required by law. This discussion and analysis should also be read in conjunction with “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations”, set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025.
Company Overview
We are a leading distributed gaming operator in the United States (“U.S.”), as well as a developer of brick-and-mortar casinos that serve local gaming markets and horse racing venues. We are a preferred partner for local business owners in the markets we serve. We offer turnkey, full-service gaming solutions to bars, restaurants, convenience stores, truck stops, and fraternal and veteran establishments across the country as well as casinos and horse racing venues. Our focus is providing unmatched customer support, guidance, and expertise so our location partners can grow their businesses with an additional revenue stream. We install, maintain, operate and service gaming terminals and related equipment for our location partners as well as redemption devices that have automated teller machine (“ATM”) functionality and stand-alone ATMs. We offer amusement devices, including jukeboxes, dartboards, pool tables, and other entertainment related equipment. These operations provide a complementary source of lead generation for our gaming business by offering a “one-stop” source of additional equipment for our location partners.
We also design and manufacture gaming terminals and related equipment. We are continuously evaluating additional opportunities that are complementary to our core business, such as our acquisition of Fairmount Park - Casino & Racing (“Fairmount”) in Collinsville, Illinois.
We currently operate in the following states:
| State | Year Operations Started or Year of Acquisition | Branding | Operations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 2012 | Accel Entertainment | •Establishments with a liquor license (Up to 6 gaming terminals) –Bars/restaurants/retail –Gaming cafes –Fraternal organizations –Veterans’ organizations •Truck stops (Up to 6 gaming terminals) •Large truck stops (Up to 10 gaming terminals) |
| Illinois | 2024 | Fairmount Park - Casino + Racing | •Operates a thoroughbred horse race track with 57 race days anticipated in 2026 •Operates a casino with ~260 gaming positions and 7 table games •Revenue share agreement with FanDuel to operate a sportsbook •Offers attractive food and beverage offerings throughout the year |
22
| State | Year Operations Started or Year of Acquisition | Branding | Operations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | 2022 | Century Gaming | •Business locations licensed to sell alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption only, including locations restricted to offering a maximum of 20 gaming terminals |
| Montana | 2022 | Grand Vision Gaming | •Designs and manufactures gaming terminals and software that are sold to Montana, South Dakota, and West Virginia •Develops proprietary gaming terminals and related software as well as other ancillary equipment for our distributed gaming routes in Montana, Nevada, Nebraska and Georgia |
| Montana | 2023 | Yellowstone Casino and other local retail/parlor locations | •Retail gaming locations licensed to sell alcoholic beverages and offering a maximum of 20 gaming terminals •Certain locations have attractive food offerings •Currently, we have five parlor locations |
| Nevada | 2022 | Century Gaming | •Non-casino locations where gaming is incidental to the primary business being conducted at the location, including: –Grocery/drug/convenience stores –Bars/restaurants/taverns –Liquor stores •Games are generally limited to 15 or fewer gaming terminals with no other forms of gaming activity permitted |
| Nebraska | 2022 | Accel Entertainment | •Operate cash devices in retail locations throughout the state •Retail establishments include any business location that is open to the public for the sale of goods other than gaming terminals and that possesses a valid sales tax permit |
| Georgia | 2020 | Bulldog Gaming | •Operates skill-based coin-operated amusement machines with winnings paid by gift cards through redemption terminals or Bulldog Wallet for noncash merchandise, prizes, toys, gift cards, or novelties |
| Louisiana | 2024 | Toucan Gaming | •Truck stop gaming parlors (up to 60 gaming terminals) •Establishments with a liquor license (up to 4 gaming terminals) –Bars/restaurants/retail –Fraternal organizations –Veterans’ organizations |
| Iowa | 2021 | Accel Entertainment | •Operate amusement concessions, including games of chance and games of skill, which we define as gaming terminals •Bars, taverns, and restaurants with a certain class of liquor license are permitted to operate up to four electrical or mechanical games of chance |
| Pennsylvania | 2023 | Accel Entertainment | •Licensed to operate at qualified truck stops •Actively exploring opportunities |
We are subject to the various gaming regulations in the states in which we operate, as well as various other federal, state and local laws and regulations.
Distributed Gaming Competitive Landscape
We compete in the distributed gaming landscape on the basis of the responsiveness of our service to our locations and players, and the popularity, content, features, quality, functionality and reliability of our products. In the distributed gaming industry, we generally operate in markets where our terminal revenue splits are either statutorily determined or negotiated, as follows:
| Statutory Splits | Negotiated Splits |
|---|---|
| Net terminal income splits are statutorily predetermined; minimum and maximum wagers are mandated by the applicable governing bodies | Net terminal income splits are negotiated |
| Pricing is not considered a factor as revenue splits with our locations are mandated by law | Pricing is a driver in contract negotiations as all revenue splits are negotiated |
| Location and customer experience are key differentiating factors for selecting us over our competitors | Our focus on player appeal, customer service and reputation are also key factors impacting competition |
| Our markets with statutory splits are: Illinois, Georgia, Pennsylvania | Our markets with negotiated splits are: Montana, Nevada, Nebraska, Iowa, Louisiana |
We also enter into space lease agreements, primarily in the Nevada market, where the location earns a fixed monthly rental fee in exchange for the right for us to operate at the location. For these agreements, we are the sole holder of the applicable gaming license that allows us to operate in that location. Under these agreements, we recognize all of the gaming revenue and record the fixed monthly rental fees as cost of revenue.
Macroeconomic Factors
Ongoing interest rate uncertainty, persistent inflation, economic impacts from the conflict in Iran, and increased and/or reciprocal tariffs may increase the risk of an economic recession and volatility in the capital or credit markets in the U.S. and other markets globally. Our location partners may be adversely impacted by changes in overall economic and financial conditions, and certain location partners may cease operations in the event of a recession or inability to access financing. Furthermore, our revenue is largely driven by players’ disposable incomes and level of gaming activity. Economic conditions that adversely impact players’ ability and desire to spend disposable income at our location partners may adversely affect our results of operations and cash flows. For the first three months of 2026, we have not observed any material impacts to our business or outlook from the macroeconomic factors noted above.
We intend to continue to monitor macroeconomic conditions closely and may determine to take certain financial or operational actions in response to such conditions to the extent our business begins to be adversely impacted.
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (the “Act”) was signed into law on July 4, 2025. The Act contains significant tax law changes impacting business tax payers with various effective dates, with certain provisions effective in 2025 and others to be implemented through 2027. Among the tax law changes that impact us are those that relate to the timing of certain tax deductions including depreciation expense, interest expense and research and development expenditures. Because these tax law changes impact the timing of these deductions, they will not reduce our overall effective tax rate. However, these tax law changes have resulted in a favorable reduction to our tax expense for the three months ended March 31, 2026, which was offset by an increase to deferred tax expense.
Components of Performance
Net revenues
Net gaming. Net gaming revenue represents net cash received from gaming activities, which is the difference between gaming wins and losses. Net gaming revenue includes the amounts earned by our location partners and is recognized at the time of gaming play.
Amusement. Amusement revenue represents amounts collected from amusement devices operated at various location partners and is recognized at the point the amusement device is used.
Manufacturing. Manufacturing revenue represents sales of gaming terminals and software as well as other ancillary equipment.
ATM fees and other. ATM fees and other consist of fees charged for the withdrawal of funds from our redemption devices and stand-alone ATMs and is recognized at the time of the ATM transaction. Revenues from our racing operations are also included.
Operating expenses
Cost of revenue. Cost of revenue consists of i) taxes on net gaming revenue that is payable to the appropriate jurisdiction, ii) licenses, permits and other fees required for the operation of our business, iii) location revenue share, which is governed by local governing bodies and location contracts, iv) ATM and amusement commissions payable to locations, v) ATM and amusement fees and vi) expenses from our casino and racing operations.
Cost of manufacturing goods sold. Cost of manufacturing goods sold consists of costs associated with the sale of gaming terminals and software as well as other ancillary equipment.
General and administrative. General and administrative expenses consist of operating expense and general and administrative expense. Operating expense includes compensation-related costs for service technicians, route technicians, route security, preventative maintenance personnel and marketing. Operating expense also includes vehicle fuel and maintenance, and non-capitalizable parts expenses. Operating expenses are generally proportionate to the number of locations and gaming terminals. General and administrative expense includes compensation-related costs for account managers and other corporate personnel. In addition, general and administrative expense also includes information technology, insurance, rent and professional fees.
Depreciation and amortization of property and equipment. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the individual assets. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of the useful life or the lease.
Amortization of intangible assets and route and customer acquisition costs. Route and customer acquisition costs consist of fees paid at the inception of contracts entered into with third parties and our gaming locations, which allows us to install and operate gaming terminals. The route and customer acquisition costs and route and customer acquisition costs payable are recorded at the net present value of the future payments using a discount rate equal to our incremental borrowing rate associated with our long-term debt. Route and customer acquisition costs are amortized on a straight-line basis over 18 years, which is the expected estimated life of the contract, including expected renewals.
Location contracts acquired in a business combination are recorded at fair value and then amortized as an intangible asset on a straight-line basis over the expected useful life of 15 years.
Other intangible assets acquired in a business acquisition are recorded at fair value and then amortized as an intangible asset on a straight-line basis over their estimated 7 to 20-year useful lives.
Interest expense, net
Interest expense, net consists of interest on our credit facility, amortization of financing fees, accretion of interest on route and customer acquisition costs payable, and interest (income) expense on the interest rate caplets. Interest on the current credit facility is payable monthly on unpaid balances at the variable per annum Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) rate plus an applicable margin, as defined under the terms of the credit facility, ranging from 1.75% to 2.50% depending on the first lien net leverage ratio.
Income tax expense
Income tax expense consists mainly of taxes payable to federal, state and local authorities. Deferred income taxes are recognized for the tax consequences of temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax basis of the assets and liabilities.
Results of Operations
The following table summarizes our results of operations on a consolidated basis for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025:
(in thousands, except %'s)
| Net revenues: | Three Months Ended March 31, 2026 | 2025 | Increase / (Decrease) Change ($) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Net gaming | $331,425 | $301,951 | $29,474 | 9.8% |
| Amusement | 5,825 | 5,908 | (83) | (1.4)% |
| Manufacturing | 1,240 | 3,858 | (2,618) | (67.9)% |
| ATM fees and other | 13,068 | 12,195 | 873 | 7.2% |
| Total net revenues | 351,558 | 323,912 | 27,646 | 8.5% |
| Operating expenses: | ||||
| Cost of revenue (exclusive of depreciation and amortization expense shown below) | 241,616 | 221,472 | 20,144 | 9.1% |
| Cost of manufacturing goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and amortization expense shown below) | 636 | 2,076 | (1,440) | (69.4)% |
| General and administrative | 58,048 | 53,004 | 5,044 | 9.5% |
| Depreciation and amortization of property and equipment | 13,862 | 12,301 | 1,561 | 12.7% |
| Amortization of intangible assets and route and customer acquisition costs | 6,790 | 6,290 | 500 | 7.9% |
| Other expenses, net | 3,526 | 2,817 | 709 | 25.2% |
| Total operating expenses | 324,478 | 297,960 | 26,518 | 8.9% |
| Operating income | 27,080 | 25,952 | 1,128 | 4.3% |
| Interest expense, net | 8,501 | 8,685 | (184) | (2.1)% |
| Loss from unconsolidated affiliates | 16 | 16 | — | 0.0% |
| Gain on change in fair value of contingent earnout shares | (1,476) | (2,355) | (879) | (37.3)% |
| Income before income tax expense | 20,039 | 19,606 | 433 | 2.2% |
| Income tax expense | 5,376 | 4,993 | 383 | 7.7% |
| Net income | $14,663 | $14,613 | $50 | 0.3% |
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Net revenues
Total net revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2026 were $351.6 million, an increase of $27.6 million, or 8.5%, compared to the prior-year period. This increase was primarily driven by higher net gaming revenue of $29.5 million, which reflected an increase in gaming locations, terminals and revenue from our casino operations, partially offset by a decrease in manufacturing revenue of $2.6 million, or 67.9%, due to lower equipment (timing) and software sales. Net revenues by state are presented below:
(in thousands, except %s)
| Net revenues by state: | Three Months Ended March 31, 2026 | 2025 | Increase / (Decrease) Change ($) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $252,798 | $233,479 | $19,319 | 8.3% |
| Montana | 40,636 | 41,136 | (500) | (1.2)% |
| Nevada | 29,301 | 27,617 | 1,684 | 6.1% |
| Louisiana | 10,143 | 9,025 | 1,118 | 12.4% |
| Nebraska | 11,381 | 7,230 | 4,151 | 57.4% |
| Georgia | 6,184 | 4,325 | 1,859 | 43.0% |
| Other | 1,115 | 1,100 | 15 | 1.4% |
| Total net revenues | $351,558 | $323,912 | $27,646 | 8.5% |
Cost of revenue
Cost of revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2026 was $241.6 million, an increase of $20.1 million, or 9.1%, compared to the prior-year period, driven by higher net gaming revenue and revenue from our casino operations, as described above.
Cost of manufacturing goods sold
Cost of manufacturing goods sold for the three months ended March 31, 2026 was $0.6 million, a decrease of $1.4 million, or 69.4%, due to the previously mentioned decrease in equipment and software sales.
General and administrative
General and administrative expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2026 were $58.0 million, an increase of $5.0 million, or 9.5%, compared to the prior-year period. The increase was primarily attributable to higher compensation-related costs, as we continue to grow our operations.
Depreciation and amortization of property and equipment
Depreciation and amortization of property and equipment for the three months ended March 31, 2026 was $13.9 million, an increase of $1.6 million, or 12.7%, compared to the prior-year period due to an increased number of gaming terminals.
Amortization of intangible assets and route and customer acquisition costs
Amortization of intangible assets and route and customer acquisition costs for the three months ended March 31, 2026 were $6.8 million, an increase of $0.5 million, or 7.9%, compared to the prior-year period due to higher amortization expense on route and customer acquisition costs.
Other expenses, net
Other expenses, net for the three months ended March 31, 2026 were $3.5 million, a increase of $0.7 million, or 25.2%, compared to the prior-year period. The increase was primarily attributable to higher fair value adjustments associated with the revaluation of contingent consideration liabilities and losses on sales of assets, partially offset by lower non-recurring expenses, and lower non-recurring lobbying and legal expenses related to new markets.
Interest expense, net
Interest expense, net for the three months ended March 31, 2026 was $8.5 million, which was a decrease of $0.2 million, or 2.1%, compared to the prior-year period. We experienced lower interest rates, partially offset by a lower benefit realized on our interest rate caplets and an increase in average outstanding debt. For the three months ended March 31, 2026, the weighted average interest rate, excluding the impact of our interest rate caplets, was approximately 5.5% compared to 6.5% in the prior-year period.
Gain on change in fair value of contingent earnout shares
The change in the fair value of contingent earnout shares for the three months ended March 31, 2026 was a gain of $1.5 million, compared to a gain of $2.4 million the prior-year period. The change was primarily due to the change in the market value of our Class A-1 common stock, which is the primary input to the valuation of the contingent earnout shares.
Income tax expense
Income tax expense for the three months ended March 31, 2026 was $5.4 million, an increase of $0.4 million, or 7.7%, compared to the prior-year period. The effective tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2026 was 26.8% compared to 25.5% in the prior-year period. Our effective income tax rate can vary from period to period depending on, among other factors, the amount of permanent tax adjustments and discrete items. The change in the fair value of the contingent earnout shares is considered a permanent, non-taxable item for tax purposes and can be the primary driver for the fluctuations in the tax rate year over year.
Key Business Metrics
We use statistical data and comparative information commonly used in the gaming industry to monitor the performance of the business, none of which are prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP, and therefore should not be viewed as indicators of operational performance. Our management uses these key business metrics for financial planning, strategic planning and employee compensation decisions. The key business metrics include:
- Number of locations;
- Number of gaming terminals; and
- Location hold-per-day
We also periodically review and revise our key business metrics to reflect changes in our business.
Number of locations
The number of locations is based on a combination of third-party portal data and data from our internal systems. We utilize this metric to continually monitor growth from existing locations, organic openings, purchased locations, and competitor conversions. Competitor conversions occur when a location chooses to change terminal operators.
The following table sets forth information with respect to our primary locations:
| As of March 31, 2026 | 2025 | Increase / (Decrease) Change | Change (%) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 2,678 | 2,745 | (67) | (2.4)% |
| Montana | 627 | 618 | 9 | 1.5% |
| Nevada | 450 | 355 | 95 | 26.8% |
| Louisiana | 99 | 96 | 3 | 3.1% |
| Nebraska | 290 | 267 | 23 | 8.6% |
| Georgia | 396 | 310 | 86 | 27.7% |
| Total | 4,540 | 4,391 | 149 | 3.4% |
Number of gaming terminals
The number of gaming terminals in operation is based on a combination of third-party portal data and data from our internal systems. We utilize this metric to continually monitor growth from existing locations, organic openings, purchased locations, and competitor conversions.
The following table sets forth information with respect to the number of gaming terminals in our primary locations:
| As of March 31, 2026 | 2025 | Increase / (Decrease) Change | Change (%) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 15,413 | 15,624 | (211) | (1.4)% |
| Montana | 6,675 | 6,526 | 149 | 2.3% |
| Nevada | 3,348 | 2,623 | 725 | 27.6% |
| Louisiana | 728 | 614 | 114 | 18.6% |
| Nebraska | 1,053 | 949 | 104 | 11.0% |
| Georgia | 1,136 | 844 | 292 | 34.6% |
| Total | 28,353 | 27,180 | 1,173 | 4.3% |
Location hold-per-day
Location hold-per-day is calculated by dividing net gaming revenue in the period by the average number of locations, which is then further divided by the number of operational days. We utilize this metric to compare market and location performance on a normalized basis. The percent change in location hold-per-day is the underlying metric we use to determine the change in same-store sales.
The following tables set forth information with respect to our location hold-per-day in our primary locations for the three months ended:
| Three Months Ended March 31, 2026 | 2025 | Increase / (Decrease) Change ($) | Change (%) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $962 | $885 | $77 | 8.7% |
| Montana | 639 | 610 | 29 | 4.8% |
| Nevada | 713 | 802 | (89) | (11.1)% |
| Louisiana | 1,101 | 972 | 129 | 13.3% |
| Nebraska | 412 | 263 | 149 | 56.7% |
| Georgia | 165 | 145 | 20 | 13.8% |
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Non-GAAP Financial Measure
Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure, but is a key metric management uses to monitor ongoing core operations. Adjusted EBITDA excludes the effects of certain non-cash items or represent certain nonrecurring items that are unrelated to core performance. Management believes this non-GAAP financial measure enhances the understanding of our underlying drivers of profitability and trends in our business and facilitates company-to-company and period-to-period comparisons. Management also believes that this non-GAAP financial measure is used by investors, analysts and other interested parties as a measure of financial performance and to evaluate our ability to fund capital expenditures, service debt obligations and meet working capital requirements.
Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net income plus:
- Amortization of intangible assets and route and customer acquisition costs
- Stock-based compensation expense
- Loss from unconsolidated affiliates
- Gain on change in fair value of contingent earnout shares
- Other expenses, net which consists of i) non-cash expenses including the remeasurement of contingent consideration liabilities, ii) non-recurring lobbying and legal expenses related to distributed gaming expansion in current or prospective markets, iii) other non-recurring expenses, and beginning in 2026 iv) gain or loss on sale of fixed assets, which were previously presented in general and administrative expenses. Prior periods have not been recast to reflect this change.
- Depreciation and amortization of property and equipment
- Interest expense, net
- Emerging markets which reflects the results, on an Adjusted EBITDA basis, for non-core jurisdictions where our operations are developing
- Markets are no longer considered emerging when we have installed or acquired at least 500 gaming terminals in the jurisdiction, or when 24 months have elapsed from the date we first install or acquire gaming terminals in the jurisdiction, whichever occurs first.
- Prior to June 2025, Pennsylvania was considered an emerging market.
- As of June 2025, we no longer have any emerging markets.
- Income tax expense
Adjusted EBITDA
(in thousands, except %s)
| Three Months Ended March 31, 2026 | 2025 | Increase / (Decrease) Change ($) | Change (%) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Net income | $14,663 | $14,613 | $50 | 0.3% |
| Adjustments: | ||||
| Amortization of intangible assets and route and customer acquisition costs | 6,790 | 6,290 | 500 | 7.9% |
| Stock-based compensation expense | 2,499 | 2,091 | 408 | 19.5% |
| Loss from unconsolidated affiliates | 16 | 16 | — | —% |
| Gain on change in fair value of contingent earnout shares | (1,476) | (2,355) | 879 | (37.3)% |
| Other expenses, net (1) | 3,526 | 2,817 | 709 | 25.2% |
| Depreciation and amortization of property and equipment | 13,862 | 12,301 | 1,561 | 12.7% |
| Interest expense, net | 8,501 | 8,685 | (184) | (2.1)% |
| Emerging markets | — | 63 | (63) | (100.0)% |
| Income tax expense | 5,376 | 4,993 | 383 | 7.7% |
| Adjusted EBITDA | $53,757 | $49,514 | $4,243 | 8.6% |
(1) Loss on sale of fixed assets was $0.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and is included in Other expenses, net. Loss on sale of fixed assets was $0.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and is presented in general and administrative expenses, which is not an adjustment for EBITDA.
Adjusted EBITDA for the three months ended March 31, 2026, was $53.8 million, an increase of $4.2 million, or 8.6%, compared to the prior-year period. The increase was attributable to an increase in the number of locations and gaming terminals.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
We believe that our cash and cash equivalents, cash flows from operations and borrowing availability under the Credit Agreement (as defined below) will be sufficient to meet our capital requirements for the next twelve months and the foreseeable future thereafter. Our primary short-term cash needs are paying operating expenses and contingent earnout payments, purchases of property and equipment, servicing outstanding indebtedness, and funding our Board of Directors (“Board”) approved share repurchase program and near-term acquisitions. As of March 31, 2026, we had $274.1 million in cash and cash equivalents.
Credit Agreement
In order to refinance our prior credit facility, we entered into a Credit Agreement, dated as of September 10, 2025 (the “Credit Agreement”), by and among us, Accel Entertainment LLC (the “Borrower”), the lenders from time to time party thereto, CIBC Bank USA, as administrative agent and collateral agent for the lenders and lead arranger, Fifth Third Bank, National Association, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., U.S. Bank National Association, and Truist Securities, Inc., as joint lead arrangers, and Bank of America, N.A. as documentation agent.
The Credit Agreement establishes a:
- $300.0 million revolving credit facility, including a letter of credit facility with a $15.0 million sublimit and a swing line facility with a $25.0 million sublimit, and
- $600.0 million term loan facility.
The maturity date of the Credit Agreement is September 10, 2030.
Proceeds of the initial borrowings under the Credit Agreement were used to repay in full all outstanding indebtedness and terminate all commitments under our prior credit agreement, dated as of November 13, 2019, as amended.
As of March 31, 2026, the weighted-average interest rate on our borrowings under the Credit Agreement was approximately 5.5%.
We were in compliance with all debt covenants under the Credit Agreement as of March 31, 2026 and expect to remain in compliance for the next 12 months.
Other Financing Activities
From time to time, we may take advantage of favorable financing terms offered by vendors for purchases of property and equipment. Financed property and equipment totaled $4.5 million and $4.8 million as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively, of which $1.7 million is recorded in accounts payable and other accrued expenses for both periods with the remaining $2.8 million and $3.1 million recorded in other long-term liabilities on the condensed consolidated balance sheets for the years ended March 31, 2026, and December 31, 2025, respectively.
Interest rate hedging instruments
We manage our exposure to interest rate risk through the use of interest rate hedging instruments, which are derivative financial instruments.
On January 12, 2022, we hedged the variability of the cash flows attributable to changes in the 1-month SOFR interest rates on the first $300 million of the term loan under the prior credit agreement by entering into a 4-year series of 48 deferred premium caplets (“caplets”), which expired in January 2026.
On January 30, 2026, following the expiration of the caplets and to continue to hedge the variability of the cash flows attributable to the changes in the 1-month Term SOFR interest rate, we entered into an interest rate collar. The collar, which is designated as a cash flow hedge, establishes a cap interest rate of 4.00% and a floor interest rate of 2.9215%. The interest‑rate collar is structured so its notional amount and timing exactly match the term loan’s outstanding balance and scheduled principal payments. The interest rate collar matures in September 2029.
We recognized an unrealized loss, net of taxes, on the change in fair value of the interest rate hedging instruments of less than $0.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026. In comparison, we recognized an unrealized loss, net of taxes, of $1.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. We also recognized interest income on the caplets of $0.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026. In comparison, we recognized interest income on the caplets of $1.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. These amounts are reflected in interest expense, net in the condensed consolidated statements of operations and other comprehensive income. As of March 31, 2026 there has been no realized gain or loss on the interest rate collar.
Temporary equity
In 2024, we acquired 85% of the ownership interests in both Toucan Gaming, LLC and LSM Gaming, LLC (herein referred to as “Toucan Gaming”), two Louisiana-based operators and owners of multiple licensed video poker establishments. Concurrent with the acquisition, we entered into a redemption agreement with the noncontrolling interest holder in the form of put and call options that would allow us to eventually own 100% of Toucan Gaming. The noncontrolling interest holder may exercise its put option after seven years, or if we have a change in control event. We may exercise our call option after ten years or upon termination of key employees of Toucan Gaming for cause. The redemption provisions are not currently considered probable. As these redemption features are not solely within our control, they cause the noncontrolling interests to be redeemable. As a result, we recorded the redeemable noncontrolling interest to temporary equity at its acquisition date fair value based on the proportionate share in net assets of Toucan Gaming, which is reported in the mezzanine section between total liabilities and shareholders’ equity in the condensed consolidated balance sheets. These redeemable noncontrolling interests are subsequently recorded at carrying value, which is adjusted for the noncontrolling interests’ share of net income or loss. If the redemption criteria become probable, the redeemable noncontrolling interests are recorded at the greater of carrying value, which is adjusted for the noncontrolling interests’ share of net income or loss, or estimated redemption value at each reporting period. If the carrying value, after the income or loss attribution, is below the estimated redemption value at each reporting period, we will remeasure the redeemable noncontrolling interests to its redemption value at which point any measurement period adjustments are recorded to equity and a corresponding adjustment to earnings per share.
Tax credit purchases
On May 1, 2026, we purchased $18.2 million of 2025 production tax credits for a total cost of $16.9 million. We will use the purchased tax credits on our 2025 federal tax return. Any excess credits that are not used on the 2025 federal tax return will be carried back to tax years 2022-2024 and will be fully utilized.
Cash Flows
The following table summarizes net cash provided by or used in operating activities, investing activities and financing activities for the periods indicated and should be read in conjunction with our condensed consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in this filing:
(in thousands, except %s)
| Three Months Ended March 31, 2026 | 2025 | Increase / (Decrease) Change ($) | Change (%) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Net cash provided by operating activities | $42,743 | $44,752 | $(2,009) | (4.5)% |
| Net cash used in investing activities | (23,069) | (26,186) | 3,117 | 11.9% |
| Net cash used in financing activities | (42,145) | (27,932) | (14,213) | (50.9)% |
Net cash provided by operating activities
For the three months ended March 31, 2026, net cash provided by operating activities was $42.7 million, a decrease in cash of $2.0 million compared to the prior-year period due primarily to favorable changes in working capital adjustments for accounts payable and accrued expenses, partially offset by unfavorable changes related to income taxes.
Net cash used in investing activities
For the three months ended March 31, 2026, net cash used in investing activities was $23.1 million, a decrease in cash used of $3.1 million compared to the prior-year period. The decrease in cash used was primarily attributable to less cash used for the purchase of property, plant and equipment. We anticipate our capital expenditures will be approximately $60-70 million in 2026.
Net cash used in financing activities
For the three months ended March 31, 2026, net cash used in financing activities was $42.1 million, an increase in cash used of $14.2 million compared to the prior-year period. The increase is primarily attributable to higher payments on debt and higher repurchases of our Class A-1 common stock.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
In preparing our condensed consolidated financial statements, we applied the same critical accounting policies as described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, that affect judgments and estimates of amounts recorded for certain assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses.
Seasonality
Our results of operations can fluctuate due to seasonal trends and other factors. For example, the gross revenue per machine per day is typically lower in the summer when players will typically spend less time indoors at our locations, and higher in cold weather between February and April, when players will typically spend more time indoors at our locations. Our horse racing operations only operate during the months where the weather is conducive to racing, which is typically from late spring through the early fall. Holidays, vacation seasons, and sporting events may also cause our results to fluctuate.
Market risk
As filed, 1,931 characters, with its headings, lists and tables. Extracted from the main document; charts and exhibits are in the original on sec.gov.
Market risk represents the risk of loss that may impact our financial position due to adverse changes in financial market prices and rates. Market risk exposure is primarily the result of fluctuations in interest rates.
Interest rate risk
We are exposed to interest rate risk in the ordinary course of business. Borrowings under our credit facility were $585.0 million as of March 31, 2026. If the underlying interest rates were to increase by 1.0%, or 100 basis points, the increase in interest expense on our floating rate debt could negatively impact future earnings and cash flows by approximately $5.9 million annually, assuming the balance outstanding under the credit facility remained at $585.0 million.
In order to protect against higher interest rates in the future on our credit facility, we hedged the variability of the cash flows attributable to the changes in the 1-month SOFR interest rate on the first $300 million of the term loan by entering into a 4-year series of 48 caplets on January 12, 2022, which expired in January 2026. The caplets protected our exposure when the 1-month SOFR interest rate exceeded 2%. On January 30, 2026, the Company continued to hedge the variability of the cash flows attributable to the changes in the 1-month Term SOFR interest rate by entering into an interest rate collar. The collar, which is designated as a cash flow hedge, establishes a cap interest rate of 4.00% and a floor interest rate of 2.9215%. The interest‑rate collar is structured so its notional amount and timing exactly match the term loan’s outstanding balance and scheduled principal payments. The interest rate collar matures in September 2029.
Cash and cash equivalents are held in cash vaults, highly liquid checking and money market accounts, gaming terminals, redemption terminals, ATMs, and amusement equipment. As a result, these amounts are not materially affected by changes in interest rates.
Controls and procedures
As filed, 967 characters, with its headings, lists and tables. Extracted from the main document; charts and exhibits are in the original on sec.gov.
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
The Company’s management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”, serving as our Principal Executive Officer) and our Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”, serving as our Principal Financial Officer), conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (“Exchange Act”)) as of the end of the period covered by this report. As a result of this evaluation, our CEO and CFO concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of March 31, 2026.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
There were no changes during the quarter ended March 31, 2026, in our internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Risk factors
As filed, 1,369 characters, with its headings, lists and tables. Extracted from the main document; charts and exhibits are in the original on sec.gov.
An investment in our Class A-1 common stock involves a high degree of risk. You should carefully consider the risk factors described under Part I - Item 1A. “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 and our condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes contained in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q in analyzing an investment in our Class A-1 common stock. If any such risks occur, our business, financial condition, and results of operations would likely suffer, the trading price of our Class A-1 common stock would decline, and you could lose all or part of your investment. In addition, the risk factors and uncertainties could cause our actual results to differ materially from those projected in our forward-looking statements, whether made in this report or other documents we file with the SEC, or our annual report to stockholders, future press releases, or orally, whether in presentations, responses to questions, or otherwise. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or those we currently view to be immaterial may also materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
There have been no material changes in the risk factors described in Item 1A. “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025.
Figures reported in this filing
Standardized line items from the XBRL in this filing, for the period ended 2026-03-31. Comparative periods it repeats are left out.
| Line item | Period | Value | XBRL concept |
|---|---|---|---|
| Revenue | 3 months2026-01-01 to 2026-03-31 | $351.6m | us-gaap:RevenueFromContractWithCustomerIncludingAssessedTax |
| Operating income | 3 months2026-01-01 to 2026-03-31 | $27.1m | us-gaap:OperatingIncomeLoss |
| Income tax | 3 months2026-01-01 to 2026-03-31 | $5.4m | us-gaap:IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit |
| Net income | 3 months2026-01-01 to 2026-03-31 | $14.7m | us-gaap:NetIncomeLoss |
| Diluted EPS | 3 months2026-01-01 to 2026-03-31 | $0.17 | us-gaap:EarningsPerShareDiluted |
| Basic EPS | 3 months2026-01-01 to 2026-03-31 | $0.18 | us-gaap:EarningsPerShareBasic |
| Diluted shares (weighted) | 3 months2026-01-01 to 2026-03-31 | 84,094,000 shares | us-gaap:WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding |
| Operating cash flow | 3 months2026-01-01 to 2026-03-31 | $42.7m | us-gaap:NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities |
| Capital expenditure | 3 months2026-01-01 to 2026-03-31 | $22.9m | us-gaap:PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment |
| Share repurchases | 3 months2026-01-01 to 2026-03-31 | $12.1m | us-gaap:PaymentsForRepurchaseOfCommonStock |
| Cash and equivalents | At period end2026-03-31 | $274.1m | us-gaap:CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue |
| Current assets | At period end2026-03-31 | $317.3m | us-gaap:AssetsCurrent |
| Total assets | At period end2026-03-31 | $1.07bn | us-gaap:Assets |
| Current liabilities | At period end2026-03-31 | $117.2m | us-gaap:LiabilitiesCurrent |
| Total liabilities | At period end2026-03-31 | $794.9m | us-gaap:Liabilities |
| Long-term debt | At period end2026-03-31 | $550.6m | us-gaap:LongTermDebtNoncurrent |
| Current portion of debt | At period end2026-03-31 | $30.0m | us-gaap:LongTermDebtCurrent |
| Shareholders' equity | At period end2026-03-31 | $272.3m | us-gaap:StockholdersEquity |
Source: SEC EDGAR, the filing index for accession 0001698991-26-000037. Last ingested by Listed: Nov 15, 2026, 02:26 ET. Listed shows no prices and gives no investment advice.