Connect with us
European Gaming Congress 2024
intralot-announces-strong-ebitda-growth-+292%-y-o-y-and-positive-earnings-after-tax-at-e3.1m-in-1q23 intralot-announces-strong-ebitda-growth-+292%-y-o-y-and-positive-earnings-after-tax-at-e3.1m-in-1q23

Latest News

INTRALOT announces strong EBITDA growth +29.2% y-o-y and positive Earnings after Tax at €3.1m in 1Q23

Published

on

Reading Time: 5 minutes

 

INTRALOT SA (RIC: INLr.AT, Bloomberg: INLOT GA), an international gaming solutions and operations leader, announces its financial results for the threemonth period ended March 31st, 2023, prepared in accordance with IFRS.

OVERVIEW

  • Group Revenue at €89.5m (8.4% yoy).
  • EBITDA at €33.7m (+29.2% yoy) in 1Q23, with EBITDA margin reaching 37.7% from 26.7% in 1Q22.
  • LTM EBITDA at €130.5m, up by 6.2% vs. FY22.
  • Substantial growth in our US operations (Revenues +13.1%, EBITDA +31.6% yoy).
  • EBT in 1Q23 shaped at 10.9m vs. €2.3m in 1Q22.
  • NIATMI (Net Income After Tax and Minority Interest) at 3.1m, vs. €5.7m a year ago.
  • Operating Cash Flow at €37.2m in 1Q23 (+115.3% yoy).
  • Group Net CAPEX in 1Q23 was €7.2m.
  • Group Cash at the end of 1Q23 at €109.2m, €6.8m higher vs. Dec22.
  • Net Debt at €471.6m at the end of 1Q23, lower by 18.9m vs. Dec22 and €29.0m vs. 1Q22.
  • Net Debt/ LTM EBITDA at 3.6x in 1Q23 vs. 4.0x in FY22.

Group Headline Figures

INTRALOT Chairman & CEO Sokratis P. Kokkalis noted:

We are extremely proud of first quarter robust organic Ebitda growth of 29% and a return to Net Earnings, along with healthy cash flows and significant reduction of Group Net Leverage Ratio down to 3.6x, providing additional momentum to INTRALOT’s successful turnaround story as a result of our consistent efforts in the past few years. With healthy financials and new technical capabilities offered through next generation solutions for Lottery digital transformation, in both the retail and online worlds, we look forward to timely addressing upcoming maturities, further improving our capital structure, and implementing an ambitious plan for strong and sustainable growth in the US and key markets around the world, creating value for all stakeholders.

OVERVIEW OF RESULTS

REVENUE

Although the reported consolidated revenue posted a decrease compared to 1Q22, leading to a total revenue for the threemonth period ended March 31st, 2023, of €89.5m (8.4%), excluding the impact from the discontinuation of Malta license, underlying revenue from continuing operations increased by 17.5%.

Advertisement
European Gaming Congress 2024 (Warsaw, Poland)
  • From a contribution perspective, Lottery Games remain our largest contributor to Group turnover with a share of 60.4%, followed by Sports Betting with a share of 17.5%, VLTs monitoring with a share of 12.5%, Technology contracts with a share of 9.5%, and Racing with a share of 0.1%.
  • Reported consolidated revenue for the threemonth period is lower by €8.2m year over year. The main factors that drove top line performance per Business Activity are:
    • 20.4m (64.5%) from our Licensed Operations (B2C) activity line with the variance driven by:
      • Lower revenue in Malta (€21.5m) due to the license expiration early July 2022 and
      • Higher revenue in Argentina (€+1.1m or +10.9% yoy), driven by local market growth. In local currency, current year results posted a +104.5% yoy increase.
    • €+6.3m (+11.4%) from our Technology and Support Services (B2B/ B2G) activity line, with the variance driven by:
      • US operations’ increased revenue (€+4.6m or +13.1% yoy), mostly driven by the growth in Numerical and Instant games, further affected by the EUR depreciation (4.3% versus a year ago in average terms) and
      • Higher revenue from rest jurisdictions (€+1.7m or +8.6%).
    • +5.9m (+54.2%) from our Management (B2B/ B2G) contracts activity line with the variance driven by:
      • Strong momentum of our Turkish3 operations (+5.8m), driven by Bilyoners improved performance, favored by the growth of the online market. In 1Q23, the local Sports Betting market expanded close to 2.2 times yoy. Performance in Euro terms was partially mitigated by the headwinds in Turkish lira (+28.1% Euro appreciation versus a year ago),
      • Higher revenue from our US Sports Betting contracts in Montana and Washington, D.C. (€+0.1m) and
      • Steady performance in Morocco.

GROSS GAMING REVENUE & Payout

  • Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) concluded at 83.4m in 1Q23, posting an increase of 4.5% (or +3.6m) year over year. The improved performance across most key regions managed to absorb the loss of sales from Malta and the higher payout ratio in Argentina (67.7% yoy on wagers from licensed operations4). 1Q23 Payout Ratio5 was higher by 3.5pps vs. 1Q22 (62.4% vs. 58.9%).

OPERATING EXPENSES & EBITDA

  • Total Operating Expenses marginally increased by €0.9m (or +3.9%) in 1Q23 (€22.7m vs. 21.8m) driven by the improved topline performance in USA and Turkey
  • Other Operating Income from continuing operations ended at €7.8m presenting an increase of 37.0% yoy (or €+2.1m).
  • EBITDA amounted to 33.7m in 1Q23, posting a doubledigit growth of 29.2% (or +7.6m) compared to 1Q22. The main drivers underpinning this performance are attributed to the strong growth in our US operations and the boosted performance in Turkey.
  • On a yearly basis, EBITDA margin on sales climbed to 37.7%, from 26.7% in 1Q22 (+11.0pps).
  • LTM EBITDA stands at 130.5m, up by 6.2% vs. FY22.

EBT / NIATMI

  • EBT in 1Q23 amounted to 10.9m compared to 2.3m in 1Q22, largely driven by the significant EBITDA contribution, the improved results from participations and investments, the gains on net monetary position and the benefit from the lower D&A.
  • NIATMI in 1Q23 concluded at €3.1m compared to €5.7m in 1Q22.

CASH FLOW

  • Operating Cashflow in 1Q23 amounted to 37.2m, increased by €19.9m, compared to 1Q22. The positive impact arising from the higher recorded EBITDA yoy and the favorable working capital movement was partially offset by the negative variance in tax payments.
  • Net CAPEX in 1Q23 was €7.2m, higher by 2.9m compared to 1Q22, with US projects consuming most of the CAPEX needs.
  • Net Debt, as of March 31st, 2023, stood at 471.6m, decreased by €18.9m compared to December 31st, 2022. Robust cash flow generation supported the continued deleveraging, with Net Debt / EBITDA dropping to 3.6x in 1Q23, from 4.0x in Dec22. Positive gross debt movements include the capital payments towards the Term Loan in US, the lower interest accrued in comparison with Dec22 and the positive FX impact on our USD denominated debt.

OUTLOOK/RISKS

The Company Management identifies significant opportunities in the growth of the Lottery and Sports Betting online markets and the expansion of regulated ilottery markets, as well as from the recovery from the implications of the recent pandemic. Combined with the evolution of INTRALOT’s new technological solutions for Lottery digital transformation, the Company is in position to capture more technology projects with an increased profit margin compared to previous years.

World economies continue to navigate through macroeconomic uncertainties, with interest rates at high levels and relatively slow economic growth.

Increased interest rates have a direct impact on the financing servicing costs of the Intralot Group, while the outlook indicates that central banks may start to ease their monetary policy by the end of 2023.

nflation is declining more slowly than expected, having strong impact on most of the industries and regions. However, the gaming industry seems to be more resilient than other sectors of the economy, presenting above average growth in most regions.

The Management of the Company closely monitors geopolitical and economic developments and is ready to take all the necessary measures for protecting its operations.

Advertisement
European Gaming Congress 2024 (Warsaw, Poland)

Latest News

Top Online Casino Trends to Watch: Megapari’s Expert Analysis

Published

on

Top Online Casino Trends to Watch: Megapari’s Expert Analysis

 

The gambling industry is evolving rapidly, bringing new opportunities and challenges daily. To help affiliates maximize their earnings by focusing on what truly engages players, experts from Megapari discuss the latest trends and key developments shaping the future of the sector in their newest article.

Megapari Partners is an affiliate platform that welcomes traffic from more than 50 geographical regions. With revenue shares of up to 50%, as well as CPA and hybrid options, the platform boasts an active partner base of over 30,000 affiliates.

When discussing the evolution of online casinos, Megapari emphasized the ongoing growth in the popularity of crash games. Although the mechanics of these games are not new and have been recognized within the industry for some time, Megapari notes that their popularity continues to rise. Leading providers have adapted to the overwhelming demand for this category of slots by introducing their own variations of the crash game mechanics. Games like Aviator and Aviatrix have solidified their positions in the platform’s Top 5 most popular slots, combining high RTP with appealing graphics and captivating gameplay. Compared to Q4 2023, Megapari has observed an increase in the popularity of crash slots more than 60%, further confirming the hypothesis of the ongoing expansion of these types of games.

Additionally, Megapari’s experts point to the significance of the “retention” rate in clicker slots. These types of slots gained popularity during the first half of 2024, attracting players with their incredibly simple mechanics. While it may be too early to compare the popularity of clickers with that of crash games, Megapari believes that in the second half of 2024, the industry will likely witness further growth in this category of slots.

Advertisement
European Gaming Congress 2024 (Warsaw, Poland)

When it comes to classic and well-known mechanics, roulette games remain among the top preferences for players. American and European roulettes—classic games with familiar rules—continue to attract players with their straightforward and well-known gameplay. Despite the fact that roulettes have long been a staple among popular and widely recognized slots, Megapari has noted an increase in the popularity of this category of games, demonstrating that the appeal of classic games should not be underestimated.

Beyond the games themselves, the hardware used by players is also advancing, leading users to seek out slots with superior graphics. More and more providers are focusing not only on game mechanics but also on enhancing gameplay with visually stunning and immersive slots, such as Medusa by Spinomenal or Heist: Bank Rush. Complex animations and vibrant icons attract players, enriching their gaming experience with greater variety.

Continue Reading

Latest News

The Role of Adaptive Soundtracks in Player Engagement

Published

on

Video slot games have come a long way from their humble beginnings. Today’s gaming experience is not just about graphics or slot gameplay; sound has also taken center stage, adding depth and enhancing player immersion. One aspect that has emerged as a slot game-changer is adaptive soundtracks. These dynamic musical scores adjust in real-time based on the player’s actions, emotions, or in-slot game events. This innovation has significantly impacted player engagement, contributing to a more immersive and interactive gaming experience.

What Are Adaptive Soundtracks?

An adaptive soundtrack refers to a musical score that changes depending on what’s happening in a slot online game. Unlike static soundtracks, which play in a loop or remain the same throughout the slot game, adaptive music evolves as players progress through different levels or encounter specific challenges. The changes in the soundtrack can reflect various in-slot game elements like mood shifts, action sequences, or environmental changes, helping to create a seamless experience.

In simpler terms, adaptive soundtracks adjust to the slot game’s flow. If a player is in a high-stress situation like a battle or chase, the music might intensify to heighten the feeling of urgency. On the other hand, if the player is exploring a peaceful environment, the music may slow down or become more calming. This dynamic nature of adaptive soundtracks plays a crucial role in how engaged a player feels while playing.

How Adaptive Soundtracks Work

Adaptive soundtracks rely on a system that monitors in-slot game events, player movements, and environmental changes. Based on specific triggers, the music shifts to suit the atmosphere or slot gameplay. This can be achieved through a variety of techniques:

  • Layering: The slot game’s soundtrack is composed of multiple layers of music. Depending on the situation, different layers are added or removed to create the right mood. For instance, in a stealth slot game, the soundtrack may begin with a light, suspenseful melody, but as enemies approach, an additional layer of percussion or a faster rhythm may be introduced to increase tension.
  • Transitioning: In some slot gacor games, rather than layering, the music transitions between different themes. For example, when a player enters a combat sequence, the tranquil exploration theme may fade out and a more intense battle score takes over. The shift is smooth, ensuring that the player doesn’t feel disconnected from the slot gameplay.
  • Reacting to Player Inputs: Some adaptive soundtracks are directly influenced by the player’s decisions. In role-playing slot games (RPGs), where players make moral choices, the music may shift to reflect the emotional weight of those decisions. A heroic act may bring in uplifting music, while a villainous choice might introduce darker, more ominous tones.

Why Soundtracks Matter in Gaming

Sound is an often overlooked but essential aspect of gaming. Without it, slot games would lose a significant layer of immersion and emotional depth. Music sets the mood, adds tension, and can guide players through complex narratives without using words.

Enhancing Emotional Connection

One of the primary ways adaptive soundtracks contribute to player engagement is by enhancing emotional connections. The music in a slot game can evoke a wide range of emotions, from excitement to fear, sadness, and triumph. By adjusting the soundtrack to match the player’s experience, adaptive soundtracks ensure that the emotional impact of the slot game is felt more strongly.

Advertisement
European Gaming Congress 2024 (Warsaw, Poland)

For example, in horror slot games, sudden changes in music can signal an impending threat, causing players to feel anxious or on edge. In adventure slot games, a soaring soundtrack during a climactic moment can make players feel empowered or inspired. This emotional engagement is key to keeping players invested in the slot game.

Maintaining Immersion

Another critical factor in player engagement is immersion. When players are fully immersed in a slot game, they lose track of time and become deeply involved in the slot game world. Adaptive soundtracks help maintain this immersion by creating a consistent and reactive audio environment that responds to the player’s actions.

If the music didn’t change to reflect what’s happening in the slot game, players might feel disconnected or disoriented. Imagine playing a slot game where the music remains calm and peaceful during a high-stakes battle; it would break the immersion and reduce the overall intensity of the experience. By constantly evolving to match the slot gameplay, adaptive soundtracks keep players in the moment, making every action and decision feel significant.

Increasing Replayability

Replayability is an important aspect of modern slot games, and adaptive soundtracks can contribute to this in a big way. slot games with dynamic music systems offer a fresh experience each time a player plays, as the soundtrack can vary based on different actions or choices. This variability can make players want to come back and explore different possibilities, knowing that even the music will change to match their new path.

For instance, in slot games with branching narratives, the music will adapt to the storyline the player chooses, offering a unique soundtrack for each playthrough. This keeps the experience fresh and engaging, encouraging players to revisit the slot game multiple times.

Advertisement
European Gaming Congress 2024 (Warsaw, Poland)

Conclusion

Adaptive soundtracks have transformed the gaming experience by enhancing emotional connections, maintaining immersion, and increasing replayability. By responding to in-slot game events and player actions, these dynamic soundtracks keep players engaged and invested in the slot game world. As technology evolves, the role of adaptive soundtracks in player engagement will only continue to grow, offering slot gamers an ever-deepening connection to the virtual worlds they explore.

From iconic titles like The Legend of Zelda to intense shooters like DOOM, adaptive soundtracks are proving to be a vital component of modern video slot game design, making each gaming experience truly unique and unforgett

Continue Reading

Latest News

SOFTSWISS Joins Pink October Movement

Published

on

SOFTSWISS Joins Pink October Movement

 

SOFTSWISS, a global tech company with over 15 years of expertise in iGaming, supports the global Pink October initiative to attract attention to preventing breast cancer.

This year’s Pink October campaign at SOFTSWISS is themed “A Minute Today, a Future Ahead” and emphasises the importance of early detection and preventative care. Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women, and early diagnosis is key in the fight against the disease. When it is noticed early, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%.

Early detection involves doing monthly breast self-exams and planning regular clinical breast exams and mammograms. Half of the 2,000 SOFTSWISS employees are women, and the company will refund each of them for ultrasounds and mammograms in October and November.

Pink October at SOFTSWISS offers a wide range of activities throughout the month. In addition to reimbursing for medical examinations, an online webinar on mental health will provide valuable insights for those who face the disease. To support the international charity movement “Butterfly Support Mission”, women from SOFTSWISS will take part in a themed race.

Advertisement
European Gaming Congress 2024 (Warsaw, Poland)

The company’s employees also personally support the initiative. To further raise awareness, prominent female influencers from the SOFTSWISS community share information about the campaign across social media, amplifying the message of self-care and vigilance.

“Health is a crucial value beyond everything. Here, at SOFTSWISS, we aim to help and support our employees’ well-being and health every day. By promoting the Pink October initiative, we want to stress the importance of well-timed self-care and make this issue visible both within the iGaming industry and beyond,” shares Chief Marketing Officer at SOFTSWISS, Valentina Bagniya.

Notably, the iGaming industry recognised SOFTSWISS’ strong dedication to ensuring the best working conditions for its employees. A few weeks ago, SOFTSWISS received the esteemed accolade “Employer of the Year” at the SBC Awards.

Supporting the Pink October initiative for the second year in a row, SOFTSWISS continues to lead by example, emphasising the importance of preventive health measures and community support. Through this initiative, the company hopes to inspire its employees and society to take action today for a healthier tomorrow.

 

Advertisement
European Gaming Congress 2024 (Warsaw, Poland)

About SOFTSWISS

SOFTSWISS is an international technology company with over 15 years of experience in developing innovative solutions for the iGaming industry. SOFTSWISS holds a number of gaming licences and provides comprehensive software for managing iGaming projects. The company’s product portfolio includes the Online Casino Platform, the Game Aggregator with over 23,500 casino games, the Affilka affiliate platform, the Sportsbook software and the Jackpot Aggregator. In 2013, SOFTSWISS revolutionised the industry by introducing the world’s first Bitcoin-optimised online casino solution. The expert team, based in Malta, Poland, and Georgia, counts over 2,000 employees.

Continue Reading

Trending