The Bally Corporation experienced extraordinary success in the second quarter of 2022, with their earnings soaring to an impressive $552.5 million. This represents a remarkable increase of over double the $226.7 million generated during the corresponding period in the previous year. In comparison to their rivals, Bally’s performance was nothing short of exceptional. Caesars Entertainment reported an 11% rise in revenue, MGM Resorts witnessed a 44% surge, and Penn Entertainment saw a 5% uptick. Trailing behind was Boyd Gaming, with a marginal gain of a mere 0.1%.
Despite achieving a net income of $59.5 million, Bally’s profit margin contracted to 10.8% from the previous year’s 25.8% on earnings of $68.9 million. However, their adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) painted a more positive picture, reaching $141.2 million with a 25.6% margin. This contrasts with $82.8 million and a 30.9% margin recorded in the same period last year.
Chief Executive Officer Lee Fenton attributed this remarkable outcome to the sustained strength of their Casinos & Resorts division, unprecedented profit margins in their International Interactive division, and ongoing expansion in their North American Interactive division, particularly at BallyCasino.com in New Jersey. He acknowledged the obstacles encountered, including substantial foreign exchange headwinds and difficulties in Atlantic City. Fenton stressed the company’s contentment with their record-setting operating cash flow for the quarter and their dedication to strategies that will sustain this cash influx.
In a calculated maneuver, Bally finalized a modified “Dutch auction” tender offer in July. They repurchased a significant 4.7 million shares of their common stock at a price of $22.00 per share, amounting to a substantial $103.3 million. This action underscores their commitment to investing in their future prospects.
Ballys has secured a significant advertising agreement with the New York Yankees, solidifying their position as the exclusive sports wagering collaborator of the iconic baseball organization. This represents a substantial triumph for Bally’s, signifying their inaugural alliance with a New York athletic entity. This action expands upon their recent achievements within the state, as they emerged as the ninth digital sports betting platform to debut in New York in July 2022.