Release Date: March 27, 2025
For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.
Positive Points
- Playtech PLC (PYTCY, Financial) reported a strong financial performance in 2024, with adjusted EBITDA of EUR480 million, up 11% year on year.
- The B2B division showed significant growth, with adjusted EBITDA increasing by 22% to EUR222 million.
- The company signed two landmark agreements, including the sale of Snaitech for EUR2.3 billion, expected to complete in Q2 2025.
- Playtech PLC (PYTCY) reduced its net debt significantly from EUR283 million to EUR143 million by the end of 2024.
- The company is focusing on expanding in attractive markets like the US and Brazil, with US revenues growing over 150% in 2024.
Negative Points
- Margins are expected to be lower in 2025 due to new terms of the Caliplay contract and accounting treatment changes.
- HAPPYBET remains loss-making, with the Austrian part closed and the German part under review for potential closure or sale.
- The company faces challenges in Brazil due to strict onboarding processes causing high KYC rejection rates.
- Playtech PLC (PYTCY) identified underperforming businesses generating EUR20 million in EBITDA losses, which are under evaluation for restructuring or sale.
- The Asian market, particularly China, is not a focus, with revenues expected to be minimal following a major operator's exit.
Q & A Highlights
Q: Can you provide more details on the underperforming assets and the EUR20 million EBITDA loss mentioned? Does this include HAPPYBET?
A: Chris McGinnis, CFO: We've identified business units generating EUR70 million in revenue but over EUR20 million in EBITDA losses and EUR25 million in negative free cash flow. These will be evaluated soon. If strategic, they may be restructured; if not, they could be sold or closed. HAPPYBET is included in this group, and we may sell or shut it down.
Q: Regarding Hard Rock Digital, when will it contribute to your financials, and what are their expansion plans?
A: Chris McGinnis, CFO: We invested $85 million in Hard Rock Digital two years ago. They launched sports betting in Florida in late 2023, and 2024 was their first full year. They are expanding into other markets like New Jersey, where we partner with them. We received EUR3 million in dividends in 2024, and we expect more in the future. Mor Weizer, CEO: They are reinvesting in other territories and have plans to expand beyond New Jersey.
Q: Is Caliente capable of obtaining licenses in US states, and does Playtech have control over its marketing spend?
A: Mor Weizer, CEO: Caliente was considering entering the US market in 2021. While we are minority shareholders, I am confident in their ability to expand beyond Mexico. They are currently focusing on Peru as their first market outside Mexico. We support their potential US entry, balancing investments in Mexico and other territories.
Q: How much of the live business comes from regulated markets, and what profit margins can be expected in these markets?
A: Chris McGinnis, CFO: With Brazil's regulation effective January 1, 2025, nearly 80% of our live business is now from regulated markets. Profit margins vary by local labor costs and regulations, but there is significant room for margin expansion in live.
Q: Can you provide an update on the Board replacement process following Brian Mattingly's departure?
A: Chris McGinnis, CFO: The process is ongoing, led by Brian and other Board members. It's progressing well, and we'll update you in due course. The new Chairman will evaluate the Board's composition and make decisions on any gaps.
For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.
