UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10‑K

10-K

(Mark One)

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017

2023

OR

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period           to           

Commission File No. 001‑36629

ELDORADO RESORTS,001-36629

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Nevada

46‑3657681

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

Delaware

(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
46-3657681
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
100 West Liberty Street, Suite 1150

12th Floor

Reno, Nevada 89501

(Address of principal executive offices)

Telephone: (775) 328‑0100

328-0100

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each class

Trading symbol

Name of each exchange on which registered

Common Stock, $.00001,$0.00001, par value

CZR

NASDAQ Stock Market

Securities registered pursuant to section 12(g) of the Act:  None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.    Yes      No  

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.    Yes      No  

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed 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 and posted on its corporate web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S‑TS-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes      No  

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§299.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non‑acceleratednon-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b‑212b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer 

Accelerated filer 

Non-accelerated filer 

Non‑accelerated filer 

(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

Smaller reporting company 

Emerging growth company

If an emerging growth company, indicate by checkmark 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 has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report.
If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act, indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant included in the filing reflect the correction of an error to previously issued financial statements.
Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are restatements that require a recovery analysis of incentive-based compensation received by any of the registrant’s executive officers during the relevant recovery period pursuant to Section §240.10D-1(b).
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b‑212b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes      No  

The aggregate market value of the common stock held by non-affiliates of the Registrant was $1.3$10.5 billion at June 30, 20172023 based upon the closing price for the shares of ERI’sCZR’s common stock as reported by The Nasdaq Stock Market.

As of February 23, 2018,15, 2024, there were 77,241,115216,299,768 outstanding shares of the Registrant’s Common Stock.

Stock, net of treasury shares.





Documents Incorporated by Reference

Portions of the Registrant’s definitive proxy statement to be filed with the Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A in connection with the Registrant’s Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “Proxy Statement”) are incorporated by reference into Part III of this report. Such Proxy Statement will be filed with the Commission not later than 120 days after the conclusion of the Registrant’s fiscal year ended December 31, 2017.

2023.



ELDORADO RESORTS,


CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.

ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2017

2023

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Part I

Page

Item 1.

1

Item 1A.

10

21

21

22

22

Part II

23

Item 6.

24

Item 7.

26

50

51

51

51

55

56

56

56

56

56

Part IV

57

58

63

INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF ELDORADO RESORTS, INC.

64

i




PART I

In this filing, Caesars Entertainment, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and its subsidiaries may be referred to as the “Company,” “CEI,” “Caesars,” “we,” “us” or “our” or the “Registrant.”
We also refer to (i) our Consolidated Financial Statements as our “Financial Statements,” (ii) our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) as our “Statements of Operations,” (iii) our Consolidated Balance Sheets as our “Balance Sheets,” and (iv) our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows as our “Statements of Cash Flows,” which are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”). References to numbered “Notes” refer to Notes to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8.

Item 1.    Business.

Eldorado Resorts, Inc., a Nevada corporation, is referred to as the “Company,” “ERI,” or the “Registrant,” and together with its subsidiaries may also be referred to as “we,” “us” or “our.”

Business

Overview

We are a geographically diversified gaming and hospitality company owningthat was founded in 1973 by the Carano family with the opening of the Eldorado Hotel Casino in Reno, Nevada. Beginning in 2005, we grew through a series of acquisitions, including the acquisition of MTR Gaming Group, Inc. in 2014, Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. in 2017, Tropicana Entertainment, Inc. in 2018, Caesars Entertainment Corporation in 2020, and operating 20 gaming facilities in ten states.William Hill PLC (the “William Hill Acquisition”) on April 22, 2021. Our properties, which are located in Ohio, Louisiana, Nevada, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Colorado, Florida, Iowa, Mississippi and Missouri, feature approximately 21,000 slot machines and video lottery terminals (“VLTs”), approximately 600 table games and over 7,000 hotel rooms. ticker symbol on the NASDAQ Stock Market is “CZR.”
Our primary source of revenue is generated by our casino properties’ gaming operations, which includes our retail and online sports betting and online gaming, and we utilize our hotels, restaurants, bars, entertainment, racing, retail shops and other services to attract customers to our properties.

We were founded in 1973 by the Carano Family with the opening of the Eldorado Hotel Casino in Reno, Nevada. In 1993, we partnered with MGM Resorts International on the Silver Legacy Resort Casino, the first mega-themed resort in Reno. In 2005, we acquired our first property outside of Reno when we acquired a casino in Shreveport, Louisiana, now known as Eldorado Shreveport. In September 2014, we merged with MTR Gaming Group, Inc. (“MTR Merger”) and acquired its three gaming and racing facilities in Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. The following year, in November 2015, we acquired Circus Circus Reno and the 50% membership interest in the Silver Legacy that was owned by MGM Resorts International (the “Circus Reno/Silver Legacy Purchase” or the “Reno Acquisition”).

On May 1, 2017, we completed our most recent – and largest - acquisition to date when we acquired Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. (“Isle” or “Isle of Capri”), adding another 13 gaming properties to our portfolio (the “Isle Acquisition” or the “Isle Merger”).

Properties

As of December 31, 2017,2023, we own, lease or manage an aggregate of 52 domestic properties in 18 states. We also operate and conduct sports wagering across 31 jurisdictions in North America, 25 of which offer online sports betting, and operate iGaming in five jurisdictions in North America. We continue to expand into additional markets as jurisdictions legalize forms of retail and online gaming and sports betting. In addition, we have other properties in North America that are authorized to use the brands and marks of Caesars Entertainment, Inc., as well as other non-gaming properties. We lease certain real property assets from third parties, including GLP Capital, L.P., the operating partnership of Gaming and Leisure Properties, Inc. (“GLPI”) and VICI Properties L.P., a Delaware limited partnership (“VICI”). See Item 2, “Properties,” for more information about our properties.
Business Operations
Our consolidated business is composed of complementary businesses that reinforce, cross-promote, and build upon each other: casino, which includes our retail and online sports betting and iGaming, food and beverage, hotel, casino management services, entertainment, retail and other business operations.
Casino Operations
Our casino operations generate revenues from approximately 51,300 slot machines, 2,700 table games, including poker, sports betting from our retail and online sportsbooks, iGaming and other games such as keno, all of which comprised approximately 55% of our total net revenues in 2023. Slot revenues generate the majority of our casino revenues.
Retail and Online Sports Betting and iGaming
We operate and conduct retail and online sports wagering across 31 jurisdictions in North America as of December 31, 2023. In addition to our online poker operations, we operate iGaming in five jurisdictions in North America and continue to leverage the World Series of Poker (“WSOP”) brand and license the WSOP trademarks for a variety of products and services. We offer hundreds of online casino games including slots, table games, live dealer and video poker and we expect to increase our product offerings as iGaming is legalized in additional states.
Table of Contents
4


We launched our Caesars Sportsbook app on our owned and operatedintegrated technology platform we have labeled Liberty (“Liberty”) in 2021. The app offers extensive pre-match and live markets, extensive odds and flexible limits, player props, and same-game parlays. In addition to the Caesars Sportsbook app, the Company and NYRABets LLC, the official online wagering platform of the New York Racing Association, Inc., launched the Caesars Racebook app in 2022. The Caesars Racebook app operates in 20 states and provides access for pari-mutuel wagering at over 300 racetracks around the world as well as livestreaming of races. Additionally, we launched our new Caesars Palace Online Casino application in states and territories where we operate iGaming in 2023. Wagers placed can earn credits towards the Caesars Rewards loyalty program or points which can be redeemed for free wagering credits. No customers under 21 years old are allowed to wager on any of our Caesars Sportsbook, Caesars Racebook and iGaming mobile apps. Growth in the Caesars Digital segment continues to be realized with the strategic expansion into new states as jurisdictions legalize retail and online sports betting and online horse race wagering.
Sports Brand Partnerships — Caesars Sportsbook has partnerships with the NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, and several individual teams. We have continued to create new partnerships among professional sports teams and, in 2021, entered into a 20-year exclusive naming-rights partnership branding the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. Our strategy includes developing local and national partnerships that align our sportsbooks, casinos, resorts and brands with sports fans. We have high-profile exclusive sports entertainment partnerships with the NFL, making Caesars the first-ever “Official Casino Sponsor” in the history of the league. This historic partnership combines the NFL’s legendary events with our properties to bring unique experiences to our patrons. This includes exclusive rights to use NFL trademarks to promote our properties and enabling Caesars to host exclusive special events and experiences. We expect to continue to host brand activations at prominent, high-profile NFL events, including the NFL Draft, NFL playoffs, and the Super Bowl during this multi-year partnership.
Food and Beverage Operations
Our food and beverage operations generate revenues from our dining venues, bars, nightclubs, and lounges located throughout our casinos and represented approximately 950,00015% of our total net revenues in 2023. Many of our properties include several dining options, ranging from upscale dining experiences to moderately-priced restaurants, some of which offer pickup or in-room delivery options.
Hotel Operations
Hotel operations generate revenues from hotel stays at our properties in our approximately 44,700 guest rooms and suites worldwide and represented approximately 18% of our total net revenues in 2023. Our properties operate at various price and service points, allowing us to host a variety of casino guests, who are visiting our properties for gaming and other casino entertainment options, and non-casino guests who are visiting our properties for other purposes, such as vacation travel or conventions.
Management and Branding Arrangements
We earn revenue from fees paid for the management of other hotels and casinos in North America. Managed properties represent Caesars-branded properties where we provide certain staffing and management services under management agreements. In addition, we authorize the use of certain brands and marks of Caesars Entertainment, Inc. from which we earn revenue from fees received based on the arrangements.
Entertainment and Other Non-Gaming Operations
We provide a variety of retail and entertainment offerings at our properties. We operate various entertainment venues across the United States, including the Colosseum at Caesars Palace Las Vegas and Bakkt Theater at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. These award-winning entertainment venues host or have announced plans to host, prominent headliners such as Garth Brooks, The Killers, Kelly Clarkson, Jerry Seinfeld, Shania Twain and Miranda Lambert.
The LINQ Promenade is an open-air dining, entertainment, and retail development located between The LINQ Hotel & Casino and Flamingo Las Vegas, which features The High Roller, a 550-foot observation wheel, and Fly LINQ, the first and only zipline on the Las Vegas Strip. The retail stores offer guests a wide range of options from high-end brands and accessories to souvenirs and decorative items.
CAESARS FORUM is a 550,000 square-foot state-of-the-art conference center located at the center of the Las Vegas Strip. CAESARS FORUM can accommodate more than 10,000 participants and features more than 300,000 square feet of casinoflexible meeting space, with approximately 21,000 slot machinesthe two largest pillarless ballrooms in the world, a LEED silver-rated FORUM Plaza, and VLTs, approximately 600 tablethe first 100,000 square-foot outdoor meeting and poker gamesevent space in Las Vegas.
Table of Contents
5


Market Activities
Trends
Economic Factors Impacting Discretionary Spending — Gaming and over 7,000 hotel rooms.

We view each operating property as an operating unit. Priorother leisure activities we offer represent discretionary expenditures which may be sensitive to our acquisitioneconomic downturns. The resurgence of Isle, we aggregatedthe Omicron variant of COVID-19 continued to impact the beginning of 2022, however, many of our properties into three reportable business segments: (i) Nevada, (ii) Louisiana and (iii) Eastern. Following our acquisitionexperienced positive trends during much of Isle, we aggregated our properties into four reportable business segments: (i) West, (ii) Midwest, (iii) South and (iv) East. For further financial information related to our segments as of and for the three years ended December 31, 2017, see Note 18, Segment Information, to our consolidated financial statements presented in Part IV, Item 15.


The following table sets forth certain information regarding our properties (listed by the segment in which each such property is reported) as of and for the year ended December 31, 2017:

 

 

Year

Opened

 

Year

Acquired

 

Slot

Machines

and VLTs

 

 

Table and

Poker Games

 

 

Hotel

Rooms

 

 

Restaurants

 

 

Bars

 

 

Casino Sq. Footage

 

 

Hotel

Occupancy (1)

 

 

Average

Daily Rate (1)

 

West Region:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Eldorado Reno

 

1973

 

N/A

 

 

1,125

 

 

 

46

 

 

 

814

 

 

 

10

 

 

 

18

 

 

 

71,500

 

 

 

73.7

%

 

$

 

100.55

 

Silver Legacy

 

1995

 

2015

 

 

1,187

 

 

 

76

 

 

 

1,711

 

 

 

7

 

 

 

14

 

 

 

92,400

 

 

 

61.2

%

 

$

 

101.00

 

Circus Reno

 

1978

 

2015

 

 

712

 

 

 

24

 

 

 

1,571

 

 

 

7

 

 

 

4

 

 

 

65,515

 

 

 

54.2

%

 

$

 

82.72

 

Isle Black Hawk (2)

 

1998

 

2017

 

 

1,026

 

 

 

36

 

 

 

402

 

 

 

3

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

27,811

 

 

 

85.0

%

 

$

 

61.99

 

Lady Luck Black Hawk (2)

 

2003

 

2017

 

 

452

 

 

 

15

 

 

N/A

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

17,614

 

 

N/A

 

 

$

N/A

 

Midwest Region:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Waterloo

 

2007

 

2017

 

 

940

 

 

 

25

 

 

 

194

 

 

 

3

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

40,286

 

 

 

71.6

%

 

$

 

66.56

 

Bettendorf

 

2000

 

2017

 

 

978

 

 

 

20

 

 

 

509

 

 

 

3

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

36,659

 

 

 

56.1

%

 

$

 

59.20

 

Boonville

 

2001

 

2017

 

 

893

 

 

 

20

 

 

 

140

 

 

 

3

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

28,000

 

 

 

83.4

%

 

$

 

69.50

 

Cape Girardeau

 

2012

 

2017

 

 

872

 

 

 

24

 

 

N/A

 

 

 

4

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

41,536

 

 

N/A

 

 

 

N/A

 

Caruthersville

 

2007

 

2017

 

 

516

 

 

 

9

 

 

N/A

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

23,816

 

 

N/A

 

 

 

N/A

 

Kansas City

 

2000

 

2017

 

 

966

 

 

 

18

 

 

N/A

 

 

 

4

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

39,788

 

 

N/A

 

 

 

N/A

 

South Region:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pompano

 

1995

 

2017

 

 

1,455

 

 

 

45

 

 

N/A

 

 

 

6

 

 

 

4

 

 

 

45,000

 

 

N/A

 

 

 

N/A

 

Eldorado Shreveport

 

2000

 

2005

 

 

1,397

 

 

 

60

 

 

 

403

 

 

 

4

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

59,000

 

 

 

81.7

%

 

$

 

67.02

 

Lula

 

2000

 

2017

 

 

875

 

 

 

20

 

 

 

486

 

 

 

3

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

56,985

 

 

 

24.7

%

 

$

 

37.59

 

Vicksburg

 

1993

 

2017

 

 

616

 

 

 

9

 

 

 

89

 

 

 

3

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

25,000

 

 

 

45.9

%

 

$

 

62.38

 

Lake Charles

 

1995

 

2017

 

 

1,173

 

 

 

47

 

 

 

493

 

 

 

3

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

26,248

 

 

 

71.4

%

 

$

 

62.43

 

East Region:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Presque Isle Downs

 

2007

 

2014

 

 

1,593

 

 

 

40

 

 

N/A

 

 

 

5

 

 

 

4

 

 

 

59,355

 

 

N/A

 

 

 

N/A

 

Nemacolin

 

2013

 

2017

 

 

600

 

 

 

28

 

 

N/A

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

31,000

 

 

N/A

 

 

 

N/A

 

Scioto Downs

 

2012

 

2014

 

 

2,245

 

 

N/A

 

 

N/A

 

 

 

6

 

 

 

8

 

 

 

83,000

 

 

N/A

 

 

 

N/A

 

Mountaineer

 

1992

 

2014

 

 

1,508

 

 

 

36

 

 

 

357

 

 

 

5

 

 

 

7

 

 

 

79,380

 

 

 

73.1

%

 

$

 

49.34

 

2022 including higher hotel occupancy and rates, particularly in Las Vegas, and increased gaming and food and beverage volumes coupled with improved product mix.

(1)

Hotel occupancy and average daily rate figures are for the period beginning May 1, 2017 and ending December 31, 2017 for properties acquired in the Isle Acquisition.

We continue to monitor the effects of recent inflation and the possible implications on certain customers most affected by lower discretionary income. Although we have seen periods of reduced visitation from those customers, visitation from customers who are not as affected by inflation remains steady or has slightly improved. In addition, our leases with VICI are impacted by inflation as they are subject to annual escalators based on the Consumer Price Index (“CPI”).

(2)

Hotel occupancy and average daily rate for Isle Black Hawk and Lady Luck Black Hawk are presented on a combined basis.

West Region

The West segment consistsWe are also continuing to monitor rising interest rates which have a direct impact on certain of five propertiesour debt instruments, in addition to an effect on consumer spending. We evaluate projected changes in interest rates when entering into borrowing arrangements and manage our mix of fixed versus variable debt.

We continue to manage the economic challenges affecting our industry and our Company that are located in Nevadaarise including labor shortages, higher labor costs, supply chain disruptions, increased costs of goods and Colorado. Threeservices, among other impacts. Further discussion of the propertieseffects of these trends are located in Reno, Nevadadescribed throughout this Form 10-K. The extent and two are located in Black Hawk, Colorado. Renoduration of these trends is located at the baseuncertain and may intensify.
Online Betting and Gaming — Online betting and gaming is a rapidly developing sector of the Sierra Nevada Mountains along Interstate 80, approximately 135 miles easte-commerce industry and we believe the digital segment of Sacramento, Californiathe global betting and 225 miles eastgaming industry will continue to grow in popularity and consumer confidence. The market for online betting platforms is being driven by the increased use of San Francisco, California. Reno, along with nearby Lake Tahoe, is a destination market that attracts year-round visitation by offering gaming, numerous summerdigital processes and winter recreational activities and popular special events. The Eldorado Reno, Silver Legacy and Circus Reno properties (the “Reno Tri-Properties”) are connected in a “seamless” manner by enclosed, climate controlled skywalks.global, growing bettor demand. We believeanticipate that the centralized locationUnited States market will continue to have a strong and critical mass of these three properties, together with the ease of access between the facilities, provide significant advantages over the freestanding hotel/casinossteady uptake in active wagers as state-by-state legislation in the RenoUnited States continues to evolve resulting in new opportunities in the United States sports betting market. Of the 31 casinos currentlyThe extent and future effects of online betting and gaming on our casino properties is uncertain but we expect that our online betting and gaming offerings will be complementary to our brick-and-mortar casino business.
Competition
The casino entertainment business is highly competitive. The industry is comprised of a diverse group of competitors that vary considerably in size and geographic diversity, quality of facilities and amenities available, marketing and growth strategies, and financial condition. In most regions, we compete directly with other casino facilities operating in the Reno market,immediate and surrounding areas. There has been increased competition from openings of newly developed casinos and plans of development in certain regions, as well as increased competition from recent legalization of casino gambling and sports betting in states such as Nebraska. In Las Vegas, our largest jurisdiction, competition is expected to increase in the coming years. In response to changing trends, Las Vegas operators have been focused on expanding their non-gaming offerings, including upgrades to hotel rooms, new food and beverage offerings, and new entertainment offerings. There have also been openings and proposals for other large scale gaming and non-gaming development projects in Las Vegas by various other developers. Our Las Vegas Strip hotels and casinos also compete, in part, with each other.
In recent years, many casino operators, including us, have been reinvesting in existing facilities, developing or rebranding new casinos or complementary facilities, and acquiring established facilities. These reinvestment and expansion efforts combined with aggressive marketing strategies by us and many of our competitors have resulted in increased competition in many regions. As companies have completed new expansion projects, supply has grown at a faster pace than demand in some areas. The expansion of properties and entertainment venues into new jurisdictions also presents competitive issues.
Our properties also compete with legalized gaming from casinos located on Native American tribal lands. While the competitive impact on operations in Las Vegas from the continued growth of Native American gaming establishments in California remains uncertain, the proliferation of gaming in California and other areas located in the same regions as our properties could have an adverse effect on our results of operations. In some instances, particularly in the case of Native American casinos, our competitors pay lower taxes or no taxes. In addition, certain states have legalized, and others may legalize, casino gaming in specific areas, including metropolitan areas from which we believe we compete principally with four other hotel‑casinostraditionally attract customers. These factors create additional challenges for us in competing for customers and accessing cash flow or financing to fund improvements for our casino and entertainment products that each generate at least $36 million in annual gaming revenues. enable us to remain competitive.
Table of Contents
6


We also compete with Native American tribes, including casinos locatedother non-gaming resorts and vacation areas, various other entertainment businesses, and other forms of gaming, such as state lotteries, on-track and off-track wagering, video lottery terminals, and card parlors. Our non-gaming offerings also compete with other retail facilities, amusement attractions, food and beverage offerings, and entertainment venues. Internet gaming and sports betting also create additional competition for our brick-and-mortar operations.
We face significant competition in northern California,our online sports betting, online horse racing wagering and iGaming businesses in jurisdictions where we currently operate and those jurisdictions in which we considerwish to expand. Although we have experienced recent success in obtaining approval for sports betting and iGaming licenses in new jurisdictions, new state launches may require significant upfront investment and may not be a significant target market.

Black Hawk is located approximately 40 miles eastsuccessful.

Resources Material to Business
Rewards Programs
We believe Caesars Rewards, one of the Denver, Colorado metropolitan arealargest loyalty programs, enables us to compete more effectively and capture a larger share of our customers’ entertainment spending when they travel among regions or engage in online wagering and gaming versus that of a standalone property, which serves as Black Hawk’s primary feeder market. Our two Black Hawk properties are connected via sky bridges. When casinos having multipleis core to our cross-market strategy.
Caesars Rewards members earn Reward Credits for qualifying gaming licensesactivities, including sports betting, online gaming and iGaming apps and wagering in the Caesars Sportsbook and Caesars Racebook apps. Members also earn Reward Credits for qualifying hotel, dining and retail spending at all Caesars Entertainment destinations in the United States and Canada. Additionally, Reward Credits are earned when members use their Caesars Rewards VISA credit card or make a purchase through a Caesars Rewards partner. Members can redeem their earned Reward Credits for those same building are combined,experiences.
Caesars Rewards is structured by member tier level (designated as Gold, Platinum, Diamond, Diamond Plus, Diamond Elite or Seven Stars) and member value. This structure allows a member to progressively access the Black Hawk/Central City market consistsfull range of 21 gaming facilities (fivebenefits available across our portfolio of which have more than 500 slot machines).


Eldorado Reno

Eldorado Reno is a premier hotel, casino and entertainment facility. The interior of the hoteldestinations as they progress through tier levels. Caesars Rewards is designed to createcultivate a European ambiancegratifying and frictionless relationship with our customers, motivating members to enhance both their frequency of visits and expenditures. Additionally, member data is utilized in conjunction with diverse marketing promotions. This includes campaigns spanning direct mail, email, our websites, mobile devices, social media, and interactive slot machines.

Intellectual Property and Resources
We use a variety of trade names, service marks, trademarks, patents and copyrights in our operations and believe that we have the rights necessary to conduct our continuing operations. The development of intellectual property is part of our overall business strategy. We regard our intellectual property to be an important element of our success. We file applications for and obtain patents, trademarks and copyrights in the United States and foreign countries where hotel guests enjoy panoramic viewswe believe filing for such protection is appropriate. While our business as a whole is not substantially dependent on any one patent, trademark, or copyright, we seek to establish and maintain our proprietary rights in our business operations and technology through the use of Reno’s skylinepatents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secret laws. We also seek to maintain our trade secrets and confidential information by nondisclosure policies and through the majestic Sierra Nevada mountain range.use of appropriate confidentiality agreements. Our United States patents have varying expiration dates.
We have not applied for the registration of all of our trademarks, copyrights, proprietary technology, or other intellectual property rights, as the case may be, and may not be successful in obtaining all intellectual property rights for which we have applied. Despite our efforts to protect our proprietary rights, parties may infringe upon our intellectual property and use information that we regard as proprietary, and our rights may be invalidated or unenforceable. The laws of some foreign countries do not protect proprietary rights or intellectual property to as great of an extent as do the laws of the United States. In addition, others may independently develop substantially equivalent intellectual property.
We own or have the right to use proprietary rights to a number of trademarks that we consider, along with the associated name recognition, to be valuable to our business, including Eldorado, Reno is centrally located in downtown Reno, Nevada.

Silver Legacy

Silver Legacy, Isle, Lady Luck, Tropicana, Circus Circus, Caesars, Flamingo, Harrah’s, Horseshoe, Paris, Planet Hollywood, Caesars Rewards, Caesars Sportsbook, William Hill and WSOP.

Table of Contents
7


As of December 31, 2023, our Caesars Sportsbook app is powered by our Liberty platform. The Liberty platform resulted in a significant upgrade to our user interface and significant product upgrades including numerous pre-match and live markets, extensive odds and flexible limits, player props, and same-game parlays. Our Liberty platform also integrates customers with the tallest buildingCaesars Rewards loyalty program. In addition, we and NYRABets LLC, the official online wagering platform of the New York Racing Association, Inc., have launched the Caesars Racebook app in northern Nevada consistingmore than 20 jurisdictions. The Caesars Racebook app provides access for pari-mutuel wagering at over 300 racetracks around the world. Wagers placed can earn credits towards the Caesars Rewards loyalty program.
Industry Overview
See Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of 37-, 34-Financial Condition and 31-floor tiers. Silver Legacy’s opulent interior showcases a casino built around Sam Fairchild’s 120-foot tall mining rig, which appearsResults of Operations.” See also Exhibit 99.1, “Gaming and Regulatory Overview,” to mine for silver. The rig is situated beneath a 180-foot diameter dome,this Annual Report on Form 10-K, which is a distinctive landmark on the Reno skyline. The Silver Legacy is centrally located in downtown Reno, Nevada and offers retail shops, exercise and spa facilities, a salon and an outdoor swimming pool and sundeck.

Circus Reno

Circus Reno is an iconic, circus‑themed hotel‑casino and entertainment complex with two hotel towers, and features a midway with 157 games, live circus acts, an arcade and a full service wedding chapel. It is conveniently located as the first casino directly off Interstate 80 when entering downtown Reno, Nevada.

Isle Casino Hotel-Black Hawk

Isle Casino Hotel-Black Hawk is one of the first gaming facilities reachedincorporated herein by customers arriving from Denver via Highway 119, the main thoroughfare connecting Denver to Black Hawk. The property includes a land-based casino and also has approximately 5,000 square feet of flex space that can be used for meetings and special events.

Lady Luck Casino-Black Hawk

Lady Luck Casino-Black Hawk is located across the intersection of Main Street and Mill Street from the Isle Casino Hotel-Black Hawk. The property consists of a land-based casino and also has approximately 2,250 square feet of flex space that can be used for meetings and special events.

Midwest Region

The Midwest segment consists of six properties, four of which are dockside casinos and two land-based casinos, located in Iowa and Missouri.

Waterloo

Our Waterloo, Iowa property is located adjacent to Highway 218 and US 20. The property consists of a single-level land-based casino and offers a wide variety of non-gaming amenities. Our Waterloo property is the only gaming facility in the Waterloo, Iowa market. We compete with other casinos in eastern Iowa.

Bettendorf

Our Bettendorf property is located off Interstate 74, an interstate highway serving the Quad Cities metropolitan area, which consists of Bettendorf and Davenport, Iowa and Moline and Rock Island, Illinois. The property currently consists of a land-based casino, includes two hotel towers and offers 40,000 square feet of flexible convention/banquet space. The Quad Cities metropolitan area currently has three gaming operations, including our gaming facility.

Boonville

Our Boonville property is located three miles off Interstate 70, approximately halfway between Kansas City and St. Louis. It is the only gaming facility in central Missouri. The property consists of a single level dockside casino and offers a 32,400 square foot pavilion and entertainment center and is the only gaming facility in central Missouri. reference.

Seasonality
We believe that business at our Boonville casino attracts customers primarily fromregional properties outside of Las Vegas is subject to seasonality, including seasonality based on the Columbia and Jefferson City areas.


Cape Girardeau

Our Cape Girardeau property is located three and a half miles from Interstate 55 in Southeast Missouri, approximately 120 miles south of St. Louis, Missouri. The property consists of a dockside casino and offers a pavilion and entertainment center with a wide variety of non-gaming amenities, including an events center, and overlooks the Mississippi river. Our Cape Girardeau property is the only gaming facilityweather in the Cape Girardeau, Missouri marketregion in which they operate and primarily competes withthe travel habits of visitors. Business in our properties can also fluctuate due to specific holidays or other gaming operationssignificant events, particularly when a holiday falls in Southwest Illinois and Southeast Missouri.

Caruthersville

Our Caruthersville property is a riverboat casino located alongdifferent quarter than the Mississippi River in Southeast Missouri. The property consistsprior year, the timing of a dockside casino, 40,000 square foot pavilion andthe WSOP tournament (with respect to our Las Vegas properties), city-wide conventions, large sporting events or concerts, or visits by our premium players. We also includes a 28-space RV Park. Our casino in Cape Girardeau is located approximately 85 miles north of our Caruthersville casino.

Kansas City

Our Kansas City property consists of a dockside casino and is the closest gaming facility to downtown Kansas City, Missouri. We believe that any seasonality, holiday, or other significant event may affect our Kansas City casino attracts customers primarily from the Kansas City metropolitan area. The Kansas City market consists of four dockside gaming facilities, a land-based facilityvarious properties or regions differently. We may also experience seasonality with retail and a Native American casino.

South Region

The South segment consists of five properties, four ofonline sports betting which are dockside casinos in Louisiana and Mississippi and one racino in Florida.

Pompano

Pompano Park, a casino and harness racing track located in Pompano Beach, Florida is located off Interstate 95 and the Florida Turnpike on a 223-acre owned site, near Fort Lauderdale, midway between Miami and West Palm Beach. Pompano Park is the only racetrack licensed to conduct harness racing in Florida. We competecoincides with seven other pari-mutuels and three Native American gaming facilities in the market.

Eldorado Shreveport

Eldorado Shreveport is a premier resort with a tri-level riverboat casino and an all-suite art deco-style hotel located in Shreveport, Louisiana adjacent to Interstate 20, a major highway that connects the Shreveport market with the attractive feeder markets of East Texas and Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas. There are currently six casinos and a racino operating in the Shreveport/Bossier City market.

Lula

Our Lula property is located off of Highway 49, the only road crossing the Mississippi River between Mississippi and Arkansas for more than 50 miles in either direction. The property consists of two dockside casinos and offers a land-based pavilion and entertainment center. Our Lula property is the only gaming facility in Coahoma County, Mississippi and draws a significant amount of business from the Little Rock, Arkansas metropolitan area, which is located approximately 120 miles west of the property. Coahoma County is also located approximately 60 miles southwest of Memphis, Tennessee. Lula competes with Native American casinos in Oklahoma and racinos in West Memphis, Arkansas and Hot Springs, Arkansas.

Vicksburg

Our Vicksburg property is located off Interstate 20 and Highway 61 in western Mississippi, approximately 50 miles west of Jackson, Mississippi, and consists of a dockside casino and a hotel. The Vicksburg market consists of five dockside casinos.


Lake Charles

Our Lake Charles property is located on a 19-acre site along Interstate 10, the main thoroughfare connecting Houston, Texas to Lake Charles, Louisiana. Lake Charles offers a dockside casino and a 14,750 square foot entertainment center comprised of a 1,142-seat specialcertain sporting events, center designed for concerts, banquets and other events, meeting facilities and administrative offices. Lake Charles is the closest gaming market to the Houston metropolitan area, which is located approximately 140 miles west of Lake Charles. The Lake Charles market consists of three dockside gaming facilities, a Native American casino and a pari-mutuel facility/racino. In addition, a Native American electronic bingo hall opened approximately 100 miles north of Houston. We believe our Lake Charles property attracts customers primarily from southeast Texas and from local residents.

East Region

The East segment consists of four properties, three of which are racinos, located in Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia.

Presque Isle Downs

Presque Isle Downs is a casino and live thoroughbred horse racing facility located along Interstate 90 in Erie, Pennsylvania. The property offers live thoroughbred horse racing conducted from May through September and on‑site pari‑mutuel wagering and thoroughbred and harness racing simulcast from other prominent tracks, as well as wagering on Presque Isle Downs’ races. Presque Isle Downs’ market is comprisedseasons of nine casinos, including Mountaineer, in West Virginia, Ohioprofessional sports teams.

Gaming Licenses and Pennsylvania.

Nemacolin

Lady Luck Nemacolin is a casino located on the 2,000 acre Nemacolin Woodlands Resort in Western Pennsylvania. Our Nemacolin property is the only casino in Fayette County, Pennsylvania. The closest competing casino to Nemacolin is approximately 60 miles away. The Nemacolin facility competes primarily with a casino and a racino in the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania area and a casino in Rocky Gap, Maryland.

Scioto Downs

Scioto Downs is a modern “racino” located in the heart of Central Ohio, off Highway 23/South High Street, approximately eight miles from downtown Columbus and is one of only two licensed gaming facilities in the Columbus area. The Scioto Downs racino also offers live standard bred harness horse racing conducted from May through mid‑September and on‑site pari‑mutuel wagering and thoroughbred, harness and greyhound racing simulcast from other prominent tracks, as well as wagering on Scioto Downs’ races.

In addition, Scioto Downs, through its subsidiary RacelineBet, Inc., also operates Racelinebet.com, a national account wagering service that offers online and telephone wagering on horse races as a marketing affiliate of TwinSpires.com, an affiliate of Churchill Downs, Inc.

Mountaineer

Mountaineer is a hotel, casino, entertainment and live thoroughbred horse racing facility located on the Ohio River at the northern tip of West Virginia’s northwestern panhandle, approximately thirty miles from the Pittsburgh International Airport and a one‑hour drive from downtown Pittsburgh. Mountaineer is a diverse gaming, entertainment and convention complex offering live thoroughbred horse racing conducted from March through December and on‑site pari‑mutuel wagering and thoroughbred, harness and greyhound racing simulcast from other prominent tracks, as well as wagering on Mountaineer’s races. Mountaineer’s market is comprised of nine casinos, including Presque Isle Downs property, in West Virginia, Ohio and Pennsylvania.


Business Strengths and Strategy

Personal service and high quality amenities

We focus on customer satisfaction and delivering superior guest experiences. We seek to provide our customers with an extraordinary level of personal service and popular gaming, dining and entertainment experiences designed to exceed customer expectations in a clean, safe, friendly and fun environment. Our senior management is actively involved in the daily operations of our properties, frequently interacting with gaming, hotel and restaurant patrons to ensure that they are receiving the highest level of personal attention. Management believes that personal service is an integral part of fostering customer loyalty and generating repeat business. We continually monitor our casino operations to react to changing market conditions and customer demands. We target both premium-play and value-conscious gaming patrons with differentiated offerings at our state-of-the-art casinos, which feature the latest in game technology, innovative bonus options, dynamic signage, customer-convenient features and non-gaming amenities at a reasonable value and price point.

Diversified portfolio across markets and customer segments

We are geographically diversified across the United States, with no single property accounting for more than 12% of our net revenues for the year ended December 31, 2017. Our customer pool draws from a diversified base of both local and out-of-town patrons. We have also initiated changes to our marketing strategy to reach more potential customers through targeted direct mailings and electronic marketing. We believe we have assembled a platform on which we can continue to grow and provide a differentiated customer experience.

Management team with deep gaming industry experience and strong local relationships

We have an experienced management team that includes, among others, Gary Carano, our Chief Executive Officer and the Chairman of the Board, who has more than thirty years of experience in the gaming and hotel industry. Mr. Carano was the driving force behind ERI’s development and operations in Nevada and Louisiana and ERI’s acquisition of Isle of Capri, MTR Gaming and Circus Reno. In addition to Gary Carano, our senior executives have significant experience in the gaming and finance industries. Our extensive management experience and unwavering commitment to our team members, guests and equity holders have been the primary drivers of our strategic goals and success. We take pride in our reinvestment in our properties and the communities we support along with emphasizing our family-style approach in an effort to build loyalty among our team members and guests. We will continue to focus on the future growth and diversification of our company while maintaining our core values and striving for operational excellence.

Governmental Gaming Regulations

The gaming and racing industries are highly regulated, and we must maintain our licenses and pay gaming taxes to continue our operations. We are subject to extensive regulation under laws, rules and supervisory procedures primarily in the jurisdictions where our facilities are located or docked.procedures. These laws, rules and regulations generally concern the responsibility, financial stability and characters of the owners, managers, and persons with financial interests in the gaming operations. If additional gaming regulations are adopted in a jurisdiction in which we operate, such regulations could impose restrictions or costs that could have a significant adverse effect on us. From time to time, various proposals have been introduced in legislatures of jurisdictions in which we have operations that, if enacted, could adversely affect the tax, regulatory, operational or other aspects of the gaming industry and us. We do not know whether or when such legislation will be enacted. Gaming companies are currently subject to significant state and local taxes and fees in addition to normal federal and state corporate income taxes, and such taxes and fees are subject to increase at any time. Any material increase in these taxes or fees could adversely affect us.

Some jurisdictions, including those in which we are licensed, empower their regulators to investigate participation by licensees in gaming outside their jurisdiction and require access to periodic reports respecting those gaming activities. Violations of laws in one jurisdiction could result in disciplinary action in other jurisdictions.

Under provisions of gaming laws in jurisdictions in which we have operations, and under our organizational documents, certain of our securities are subject to restriction on ownership which may be imposed by specified governmental authorities. The restrictions may require a holder of our securities to dispose of the securities or, if the holder refuses, or is unable to dispose of the securities, we may be required to repurchase the securities.

A more detailed description of the regulations to which we are subject is contained in Exhibit 99.1 to this Annual Report on Form 10‑K,10-K, which is incorporated herein by reference.


Internal Revenue Service Regulations

The Internal Revenue Service requires operators of casinos and online sports betting apps located in the United States to file information returns for U.S. citizens, including names and addresses of winners for certain table games, keno, bingo, slot machine and retail and online sports betting winnings in excess of stipulated amounts. The Internal Revenue Service also requires operators to withhold taxes on some table games, keno, bingo, slot machine and retail and online sports betting winnings of nonresident aliens. We are unable to predict the extent to which these requirements, if extended, might impede or otherwise adversely affect operations of, and/or income from, other games.
Regulations adopted by the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network of the Treasury Department (“FINCEN”) requires the reporting of currency transactions in excess of $10,000 occurring within a gaming day, including identification of the patron by name and social security number. This reporting obligation began in May 1985 and may have resulted in the loss of gaming revenues to jurisdictions outside the United States which are exempt from the ambit of these regulations. In addition to currency transaction reporting requirements, suspicious financial activity is also required to be reported to FINCEN.
Table of Contents
8


Other Laws and Regulations
Our businesses are subject to various federal, state and local laws and regulations in addition to gaming regulations. These laws and regulations include, but are not limited to, restrictions and conditions concerning alcoholic beverages, food service, smoking, environmental matters, employees and employment practices, currency transactions, taxation, zoning and building codes, and marketing and advertising. Such laws and regulations could change or could be interpreted differently in the future, or new laws and regulations could be enacted. Material changes, new laws or regulations, or material differences in interpretations by courts or governmental authorities could adversely affect our operating results.
The sale of alcoholic beverages is subject to licensing, control and regulation by applicable local regulatory agencies. All licenses are revocable and are not transferable. The agencies involved have full power to limit, condition, suspend or revoke any license, and any disciplinary action could, and revocation would, have a material adverse effect upon our operations.
We also deal with significant amounts of cash in our operations and are subject to various reporting and anti-money laundering regulations. Such laws and regulations could change or could be interpreted differently in the future, or new laws and regulations could be enacted. Material changes, new laws or regulations, or material differences in interpretations by courts or governmental authorities could adversely affect our operating results. See Item 1A, “Risk Factors,” for additional discussion.
Taxation
Gaming companies are typically subject to significant taxes and fees in addition to normal federal, state and local income taxes, and such taxes and fees are subject to increase at any time. We pay substantial taxes and fees with respect to our operations. From time to time, federal, state, local and provincial legislators and officials have proposed changes in tax laws, or in the administration of such laws, affecting the gaming industry. It is not possible to determine with certainty the likelihood of changes in tax laws or in the administration of such laws.
Environmental Matters
We are subject to various federal, state and local environmental, health and safety laws and regulations, including but not limited to air quality, indoor air quality, water quality, bulk storage of regulated materials, and disposal of waste, including hazardous waste. Such laws and regulations can impose liability on potentially responsible parties (owner/operators of real property) to clean up, or contribute to the cost of cleaning up, sites at which regulated materials were disposed of or released. In addition to investigation and remediation liabilities that could arise under such laws and regulations, we could face personal injury, property damage, fines or other claims by third parties concerning environmental compliance, contamination or exposure to hazardous conditions. Environmental regulatory violations also include monetary penalties assessed by the jurisdictional regulatory agency and civil or criminal penalties for intentional negligence. Occasionally and under certain circumstances, we have investigated and remediated (or contributed to remediation costs) contamination located at or near our facilities. Examples included contamination related to underground storage tanks and groundwater contamination arising from prior uses of land on which certain facilities are located. In addition, we have and continue to contain, manage, and dispose of manure and wastewater generated by concentrated animal feeding operations due to our racetrack operations; manage, abate, or remove indoor air quality concerns such as mold, lead, or asbestos-containing materials; and manage operations within applicable environmental permitting requirements. Although we have incurred and expect to incur costs related to various environmental matters such as investigations, remediation, and management of hazardous materials or conditions known or discovered to exist at our properties, those costs have not had, and are not expected to have, a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flow. However, such matters in the future could have a material adverse effect on our business.
Climate Change
There has been an increasing focus of international, national, state, regional and local regulatory bodies on greenhouse gas (“GHG”), including carbon emissions, and climate change issues. The United States is a member of the Paris Agreement, a climate accord reached at the Conference of the Parties (“COP 21”) in Paris, that set many new goals, and many related policies are still emerging. The Paris Agreement requires set GHG emission reduction goals every five years beginning in 2020. Stronger GHG emission targets were set at COP 26 in Glasgow in November 2021.
Future regulation could impose stringent standards to substantially reduce GHG emissions. Legislation to regulate GHG emissions has periodically been introduced in the U.S. Congress. The current Administration has taken steps to further regulate GHG emissions. Those reductions could be costly and difficult to implement or estimate.


Beyond financial and regulatory effects, the projected severe effects of climate change – such as property damage or supply chain issues stemming from extreme weather events – has already and may continue to directly affect our facilities and operations. Caesars recognizes the impacts of climate change and is engaged in long-term initiatives to identify, assess, and manage the risks and opportunities associated with climate change (see “Environmental Stewardship” below).
Reporting and Record‑KeepingRecord-Keeping Requirements

We are required periodically to submit detailed financial and operating reports and furnish any other information about us and our subsidiaries that gaming authorities may require. We are required to maintain a current stock ledger that may be examined by gaming authorities at any time. If any securities are held in trust by an agent or by a nominee, the record holder may be required to disclose the identity of the beneficial owner to gaming authorities. A failure to make such disclosure may be grounds for finding the record holder unsuitable. Gaming authorities may, and in certain jurisdictions do, require certificates for our securities to bear a legend indicating that the securities are subject to specified gaming laws.

Taxation

Gaming companies

Human Capital Management
We aim to provide a workplace that is engaging, empowering, inclusive and respectful for all employees (our “Team Members”), embracing a culture of openness, passion for service and recognition. Our ongoing investment in professional training and development, safety, health and wellbeing, and Team Member recognition linked to guest satisfaction are typically subjectall important drivers of our success in delivering strong financial results and creating value for our communities. We have approximately 51,000 Team Members throughout our organization, excluding the Team Members of certain of our tribal partners.
Labor Relations
Approximately 24,000, or 47% of our Team Members, are covered by collective bargaining agreements with certain of our subsidiaries. The majority of these employees in various job positions are covered by the following agreements:
Employee GroupApproximate Number of Active Employees RepresentedUnionDate on which Collective Bargaining Agreement Becomes Amendable
Las Vegas Culinary Employees11,000Culinary Workers Union, Local 226September 30, 2028
Atlantic City Food & Beverage and Hotel Employees5,400UNITE HERE, Local 54May 31, 2026
Las Vegas Dealers2,000United Auto Workers
September 30, 2023*
Las Vegas Teamsters1,100Teamsters, Local 986March 31, 2024
Las Vegas Bartenders1,300Bartenders Union, Local 165September 30, 2028
____________________
*The agreement is currently under negotiation.
Hiring and Development
We aim to significant taxes and fees in addition to normal federal, state and local income taxes, and such taxes and fees are subject to increase at any time. We pay substantial taxes and feessupport Team Members throughout their career with respect to our operations. From time to time, federal, state, local and provincial legislators and officials have proposed changes in tax laws, or in the administration of such laws, affecting the gaming industry. It is not possible to determine with certainty the likelihood of changes in tax laws or in the administration of such laws.

Internal Revenue Service Regulations

The Internal Revenue Service requires operators of casinos located in the United States to file information returns for U.S. citizens, including names and addresses of winners, for keno, bingo and slot machine winnings in excess of stipulated amounts. The Internal Revenue Service also requires operators to withhold taxes on some keno, bingo and slot machine winnings of nonresident aliens.Caesars. We are unablecommitted to predictproviding opportunities to help Team Members achieve their professional goals. We maintain a wide range of channels for diverse recruiting, including outreach to academic institutions and nonprofits that help us source diverse candidates. Our leadership receives training on our inclusive and equitable talent management recruitment and retention processes. Additionally, to support hiring initiatives across the extententerprise, we maintain a recruiting website that includes information describing our culture, benefits and diversity initiatives. The website highlights our commitment to which these requirements, if extended, might impede or otherwise adversely affect operationscorporate social responsibility (“CSR”) diversity, equity and inclusion (“DEI”), and we welcome candidates from all backgrounds.

We strive to inspire our Team Members through our mission, vision and values, and our Code of and/or income from,Commitment (described below). To evaluate our Team Member experience and our retention efforts, we monitor a number of Team Member measures, such as turnover rates and Team Member satisfaction. We send out Team Member experience surveys to help us further understand the other games.

Regulations adopted by the Financial Crimes Enforcement Networkdrivers of the Treasury Department (“FINCEN”)engagement and the Nevada Gaming Authorities require the reporting of currency transactions in excess of $10,000 occurringareas where we can improve. These surveys are completed on a regular basis alongside additional surveys targeted at specific events within a gaming day, including identificationTeam Member cycle such as new hire onboarding and exit inquiries.

Table of the patron by nameContents
10


Our compensation and social security number. This reporting obligation began in May 1985benefits programs are designed to attract, retain and may have resulted in the loss of gaming revenues to jurisdictions outside the United States which are exempt from the ambit of these regulations.motivate our Team Members. In addition to currency transaction reporting requirements, suspicious financial activity is also requiredcompetitive salaries and wages, we provide a variety of short-term, long-term and incentive-based compensation programs to be reportedreward performance relative to FINCEN.

Other Laws and Regulations

Our businesses are subjectkey metrics relevant to various federal, state and local laws and regulations in addition to gaming regulations. These laws and regulations include,our business. We offer comprehensive benefit options including, but are not limited to, restrictionsretirement savings plans, health insurance coverage (including medical, mental health, dental, vision and conditions concerning alcoholic beverages, food service, smoking, environmental matters, employeespharmacy), parental leave, educational assistance, training opportunities, company-paid life insurance and employment practices, currency transactions, taxation, zoninga Team Member assistance program.

We place utmost importance on creating a safe workplace for our Team Members, embedding procedures so that all our Team Members have the awareness, knowledge and building codes, and marketing and advertising. Such laws and regulations could change or could be interpreted differently in the future, or new laws and regulations could be enacted. Material changes, new laws or regulations, or material differences in interpretations by courts or governmental authorities could adversely affect our operating results.

The sale of alcoholic beverages is subjecttools to licensing, control and regulation by applicable local regulatory agencies. All licenses are revocable and are not transferable. The agencies involved have full power to limit, condition, suspend or revoke any license, and any disciplinary action could, and revocation would, havemake safe working a material adverse effect upon our operations.

Intellectual Property

We use a variety of trade names, service marks, trademarks, patents and copyrights in our operations and believe that we have all the licenses necessary to conduct our continuing operations. We have registered several service marks, trademarks, patents and copyrights with the United States Patent and Trademark Office or otherwise acquired the licenses to use those which are material to conduct our business. habit.

We also own patents relatingmaintain a wellness program to unique casino games. We file copyright applications to protecthelp our creative artworks, which are often featured in property branding, as well as our distinctive website content.


Seasonality

Casino, hotel and racing operations in our markets are subject to seasonal variation. Seasonal weather conditions can frequently adversely affect transportation routes to each of our properties and also may cause flooding and other effects that result in closure of our Southern properties and cancellations of live horse racing at the Eastern properties. As a result, unfavorable seasonal conditions could have a material adverse effect on our operations.

Environmental Matters

We are subject to various federal, state and local environmental,Team Members improve their health and safety lawswellbeing. This program has demonstrated improved health metrics for participating Team Members and regulations, including those relating to the use, storage, discharge, emission and disposal of hazardous materials and solid, animal and hazardous wastes and exposure to hazardous materials. Such laws and regulations can impose liability on potentially responsible parties, including the owners or operators of real property, to clean up, or contribute totheir covered family members helping reduce the cost of cleaning up, sites at which hazardous wastes or materials were disposed of or released. In additionhealthcare for Team Members and for the Company. We continue to investigation and remediation liabilities that could arise under such laws and regulations, we could also face personal injury, property damage, fines or other claims by third parties concerning environmental compliance or contamination or exposure to hazardous materials, and could be subject to significant fines or penalties for any violations. We have from time to time been responsible for investigating and remediating, or contributing to remediation costs related to, contamination located at or near certain of our facilities, including contamination related to underground storage tanks and groundwater contamination arising from prior uses of land on which certain of our facilities are located. In addition, we have been, and may in the future be, required to manage, abate, remove or contain manure and wastewater generated by concentrated animal feeding operations duemake enhancements to our racetrack operations, mold, lead, asbestos‑containing materials or other hazardous conditions foundofferings and wellness programs with a wide range of affordable options, mental health initiatives and onsite primary care clinics across the US.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
We embrace diversity and aim to create an inclusive working environment that celebrates all our Team Members as individuals. Our diversity, equity and inclusion framework identifies five pillars of activity: advocacy, Team Members, suppliers, communities and guests for a holistic approach to embedding DEI in or oneverything we do. We publish our properties. Although we have incurred,DEI data in our annual CSR report (described below).
We set goals to increase the representation of women and expect that we will continuepeople of color in leadership roles (supervisory and above). Our 2025 goals outlined 50% of management roles to incur, costs relatedbe held by women in both the mid-level and senior leadership populations, and 50% of leadership roles to be held by people of color. We also committed to increase the investigation, identification and remediationrepresentation of hazardous materials or conditions known or discovered to exist at our properties, those costs have not had, and are not expected to have, a material adverse effect on our financial condition, resultspeople of operations or cash flow.

Employees

color in senior leadership roles by 50%. As of December 31, 2017,2023, 45% of mid-level roles and 29% of senior leadership roles in the Company were held by women. Additionally, 44% of leadership roles were held by people of color and the representation of people of color in senior leadership positions has increased by 116% since October 2020.

Corporate Social Responsibility
Caesars’ Board of Directors (the “Board”) and senior executives view CSR as an integral element in the way we had approximately 12,500 employees. Asdo business, with the belief that being a good corporate citizen helps protect the Company against risk, contributes to improved performance and helps foster positive relationships with all those with whom we connect. The Board and our executive management are committed to being an industry leader in CSR (which includes diversity, equity and inclusion, social impact, and environmental sustainability). In 2023, the Board and our leadership continued to engage with our CEO-level external CSR Advisory Board comprised of such date,experts representing DEI, sustainability, business strategy, academia and investors, and used their guidance to confirm our CSR priorities. These priorities are reflected in our 14th annual CSR report, published in 2023 in accordance with Global Reporting Initiative Standards.
CSR Committee of the Board
Caesars’ Board has a CSR committee that defines the duties and responsibilities of the Board in supporting delivery of our corporate purpose and CSR strategy.
Code of Commitment
Caesars is committed to being a responsible corporate citizen and environmental steward through our CSR strategy, PEOPLE PLANET PLAY. This is reflected in our Code of Commitment which is our public pledge to our guests, Team Members, communities, business partners and all those we had 11 collective bargaining agreements covering approximately 970 employees. Three collective bargaining agreements are scheduled to expire this year. There can be no assurancereach that we will be ablehonor the trust they have placed in us through ethical conduct and integrity. We commit to:
PEOPLE: Supporting the wellbeing of our Team Members, guests and local communities.
PLANET: Taking care of the world we all call home.
PLAY: Creating memorable experiences for our guests and leading responsible gaming practices in the industry.
PEOPLE PLANET PLAY Strategy
Our PEOPLE PLANET PLAY strategy defines how we meet the obligations of our Code of Commitment and is aligned with global priorities articulated by the United Nations as the Sustainable Development Goals. PEOPLE PLANET PLAY establishes multi-year targets in key areas of impact, including science-based greenhouse gas emissions-reduction goals aligning with global best practices on climate change action. In 2022, we conducted a comprehensive CSR assessment to extend or enter into replacement agreements. If we are ableevaluate our
Table of Contents
11


assumptions. With the help of an external specialist, our assessment gathered input from internal and external stakeholders, reviewed multiple industry and environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) disclosures, standards and frameworks and yielded 21 material topics. Our materiality assessment is available on our website at www.investor.caesars.com within the ESG resource hub on our Corporate Social Responsibility page.
Responsible Gaming
For more than thirty years, Caesars has maintained its Responsible Gaming (“RG”) program. We train tens of thousands of Team Members each year and a cohort of RG Ambassadors throughout our properties to extend or enter into replacement agreements, there can be no assurance as to whether the terms will be on comparable termsidentify guests in need of assistance and provide support. In recent years, Caesars has contributed to the National Center for Responsible Gaming, the National Council on Problem Gaming and other state programs to help advance responsible practices in the gaming industry. Caesars Digital also maintains responsible gaming programs tailored to each state in which it operates, participates in Caesars’ overarching Responsible Gaming program, and offers users in-application RG tools such as time on device restrictions and wagering limits. No customers under 21 years old are allowed to wager on any of our Caesars Sportsbook, Caesars Racebook and iGaming mobile apps.
Caesars maintains a comprehensive risk-based Bank Secrecy Act (“BSA”) and Anti-Money Laundering (“AML”) program. It includes strong governance and effective internal controls and procedures to comply with applicable BSA requirements, regulatory guidance, and any related laws, and to take measures to prevent its affiliated casinos from being used for money laundering or other criminal activity. Execution of the program is governed with reference to FINCEN’s guidance on the Culture of Compliance. Caesars’ internal AML Policy, Know Your Customer Policy and BSA Identification Policy outline the Caesars AML Program and set the minimum standards for the related procedures and internal controls of the Caesars casino affiliates. Certain employees are required to complete annual trainings related company policies, including AML.
Caesars also maintains a Code of Ethics and Business Conduct (the “Code”) that includes standards designed to deter wrongdoing and to promote, amongst other standards, honest and ethical conduct and full, fair, accurate, timely and understandable disclosure in reports and documents that the Company files with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Caesars’ Chief Legal Officer serves as the compliance officer of the Code and Caesars provides periodic training regarding the contents and importance of the Code.
Caesars also maintains an Amended and Restated Gaming Compliance Plan (the “Plan”), which is approved by various gaming regulators. The Plan is designed to implement procedures to enhance the likelihood that no activities of the Company or any affiliate of the Company will impugn the reputation and integrity of Caesars. The Plan also establishes a Compliance Committee that assists the Company in implementing its strict policy that its business be conducted with honesty and integrity, and in accordance with high moral, legal and ethical standards. Caesars’ Senior Vice President & Assistant General Counsel – Regulatory & Compliance serves as the Compliance Officer as defined by the Plan.
Environmental Stewardship
We take a proactive approach to environmental sustainability through our CodeGreen strategy established in 2007, striving to improve our performance across energy and GHG emissions efficiencies, reduction of water consumption and increasing diversion of waste from landfills. Caesars recognizes the impact climate change can play both on our business and the guests we serve. Identifying, assessing, and managing the risks and opportunities therefore plays a vital role in our long-term strategic thinking on climate and water, and how we approach our CSR goals. Our goals are based in science as part of our strategy to reduce our environmental impact. In 2023, we began the process to establish new goals to align with a 1.5-degree Celsius limit to global warming, measured against a 2019 base-year and we expect to announce our new goals in 2024.
Our existing agreementsGHG targets, established in 2018 to be in line with SBTi’s guidance to achieve a level of decarbonization required to keep global temperature increase below 2 degrees Celsius, are (i) reducing absolute Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 35% by 2025, and 100% by 2050, from a 2011 base-year and (ii) having 60% of suppliers by spend institute science-based GHG reduction targets for their operations by 2023. Between 2011 and 2022, Caesars estimated a reduction in absolute Scopes 1 and 2 GHG emissions of 41.8%, thereby achieving our interim Scope 1 and 2 reduction target ahead of schedule. We fell short of our supplier engagement goal; however, in 2023 we revisited our Scope 3 emissions and intend to set an absolute reduction target in 2024 as part of our new GHG goals that better align with a 1.5-degree Celsius pathway.
To achieve our goals, we have taken initiatives such as pursuing renewable energy sources and low-carbon options, including on site solar developments. For example, we have contracts to purchase energy from solar covered parking canopies recently completed at two Atlantic City properties and we installed solar covered parking at Harrah’s Pompano Beach. Our long-term goals include a continued focus on energy efficiency and conservation as well as evaluating renewable energy supply opportunities for each of our properties.
Table of Contents
12


We voluntarily participate in the CDP (formerly the Carbon Disclosure Project), an international nonprofit that runs a global disclosure system for investors, companies, and regions to manage their environmental impacts. In 2023, Caesars scored an A-for water security and a B for climate change. Approximately 2% of companies assessed by CDP in 2023 made the A List for either climate change or water security.
We are engaged in extensive waste reduction efforts across our facilities, including recycling, food donation, and manure composting. In 2022, we diverted 59% of our total waste from landfills.
Community Investment
Caesars contributes to our local communities to help them develop and prosper, through funding community projects, Team Member volunteering and cash donations from the Caesars Foundation, a private foundation funded from our operating income. In 2023, the Caesars Foundation contributed $3.7 million to communities across the United States. The Caesars Foundation also continued to support significant national relationships that support diversity, equity and inclusion. During 2023, our Team Members volunteered over 82,000 hours through the HERO program.
We focus on multi-faceted support of our non-profit partners. For example, in 2023 we demonstrated our commitment to the mission of Boys & Girls Clubs of America through regional giving to local Clubs, HERO volunteering, hosting fundraising events, collecting customer donations through Caesars Makes Change, in addition to providing several Caesars Foundation grants at the national and local levels, all totaling nearly $1 million in value to the organization and the communities where we operate.
We seek to encourage DEI dialogue in our communities as part of our advocacy approach to raise awareness. In 2023, we hosted our DEI Summit which bring together corporate partners, nonprofit partners, advocacy groups and suppliers in supporting and promoting efforts to advance DEI initiatives. The Summit included several educational sessions and panel discussions led by notable DEI leaders and practitioners.
Available Information
We are required to file annual, quarterly and other current reports and information with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”).

Because we submit filings to the SEC electronically, access to this information is available at the SEC’s website (www.sec.gov). This site contains reports and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC.

We make our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, our Current Reports on Form 8-K, and all amendments to these reports, available free of charge on our corporate website (www.caesars.com/corporate) as soon as reasonably practicable after such reports are filed with, or furnished to, the SEC. In addition, our Code of Ethics and Business Conduct and charters of the Audit Committee, Compensation Committee, Corporate Social Responsibility Committee, and the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee are available on our website. We will provide reasonable quantities of electronic or paper copies of filings free of charge upon request. In addition, we will provide a copy of the above referenced charters to stockholders upon request.
References in this document to our website address do not incorporate by reference the information contained on the website into this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Table of Contents
13


Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward‑LookingForward-Looking Information

This reportAnnual Report on Form 10-K includes “forward‑looking“forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward‑lookingForward-looking statements include statements regarding our strategies, objectives and plans for future development or acquisitions of properties or operations, as well as expectations, future operating results, trends and other information that is not historical information. When used in this report, the terms or phrases such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “projects,” “plans,” “intends,” “expects,” “might,” “may,” “estimates,” “could,” “should,” “would,” “will likely continue,” and variations of such words or similar expressions and their negative forms are intended to identify forward‑lookingforward-looking statements. Specifically, forward-lookingThese statements may include, among others, statements concerning:

projectionsare made on the basis of management’s current views and assumptions regarding future results of operations or financial condition;

events.

expectations regarding our business and results of operations of our existing casino properties and prospects for future development;

expectations regarding trends that will affect our market and the gaming industry generally and the impact of those trends on our business and results of operations;

our ability to comply with the covenants in the agreements governing our outstanding indebtedness;

our ability to meet our projected debt service obligations, operating expenses, and maintenance capital expenditures;

expectations regarding availability of capital resources;


our intention to pursue development opportunities and acquisitions and our ability to obtain financing for, and realize the anticipated benefits, of such development and acquisitions; and

the impact of regulation on our business and our ability to receive and maintain necessary approvals for our existing properties and future projects.

Any forward‑lookingForward-looking statements are based upon a numbercertain underlying assumptions, including any assumptions mentioned with the specific statements, as of the date such statements were made. Such assumptions are in turn based upon internal estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by us, is inherently subject to significant business,analyses of market conditions and trends, management plans and strategies, economic conditions and competitiveother factors. Such forward-looking statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, and contingencies, many of which are beyond our control, and are subject to change. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties because they relate to events and depend upon future circumstances that may not occur. Actual results of operationsand trends may varydiffer materially from any forward‑looking statements made herein. Forward‑lookingfuture results, trends, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we assume no duty to update forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements should not be regarded as a representation by us or any other person that the forward‑lookingforward-looking statements will be achieved. Undue reliance should not be placed on any forward‑lookingforward-looking statements. Some of the contingencies and uncertainties to which any forward‑lookingforward-looking statement contained herein isare subject include, but are not limited to, the following:

our sensitivity to reductions in discretionary consumer spending as a result of downturns in the economy and other factors outside our control;
projections of future results of operations or financial condition;
expectations regarding our business and results of operations of our existing casino properties and prospects for future development;
the impact of economic trends, inflation and public health emergencies on our business and financial condition;
expectations regarding trends that will affect our market and the gaming industry generally, including expansion of internet betting and gaming, and the impact of those trends on our business and results of operations;
our ability to comply with the covenants in the agreements governing our outstanding indebtedness and leases;
our ability to meet our projected debt service obligations, operating expenses, and maintenance capital expenditures;
expectations regarding availability of capital resources;
our intention to pursue development opportunities and additional acquisitions and divestitures;
the impact of regulation on our business and our ability to receive and maintain necessary approvals for our existing properties and future projects and operation of online sportsbook, poker and gaming.
the impact of the Data Incident (as defined below) and any other future cybersecurity breaches on our business, financial conditions and results of operations;
factors impacting our ability to successfully operate our digital betting and iGaming platform and expand its user base;
our ability to adapt to the very competitive environments in which we operate, including the online market;
the impact of economic downturns and other factors that impact consumer spending;
the impact of win rates and liability management risks on our results of operations;
our reliance on third parties for strategic relationships and essential services;
costs associated with investments in our online offerings and technological and strategic initiatives;
risk relating to fraud, theft and cheating;

Table of Contents
14


our ability to collect gaming receivables from our credit customers;
the impact of our substantial indebtedness and significant financial commitments, could adversely affectincluding our results of operations andobligations under our ability to service such obligations;

lease arrangements;

restrictions and limitations in agreements governing our debt and leased properties could significantly affect our ability to operate our business and our liquidity;

financial, operational, regulatory or other potential challenges that may arise as a result of leasing of a number of our facilities operate in very competitive environmentsproperties;

the effect of disruptions or corruption to our information technology and we face increasing competition;

other systems and infrastructure;

the ability to identify suitable acquisition opportunities and realize growth and cost synergies from any future acquisitions;

the impact of governmental regulation on our operations are particularly sensitive to reductions in discretionary consumer spending and are affected by changes in general economic and market conditions;

our gaming operations are highly regulated by governmental authoritiesbusiness and the cost of complying or the impact of failing to comply with such regulations;

changes in gaming taxes and fees in jurisdictions in which we operate;

risks relating to pending claims or future claims that may be brought against us;

changes in interest rates and capital and credit markets;

the effect of seasonal fluctuations;

our particular sensitivity to energy and water prices;

deterioration in our reputation or the reputation of our brands;
potential compromises of our information systems or unauthorized access to confidential information and customer data;
our reliance on information technology, particularly for our digital business;
our ability to comply with certain covenants inprotect our debt documents;

intellectual property rights;

our reliance on licenses to use the effectintellectual property of disruptions to our information technologythird parties and other systems and infrastructure;

construction factors relating to maintenance and expansion of operations;

our ability to attract and retain customers;

renew or extend our existing licenses;

weather or road conditions limiting access to our properties;

the effect of war, terrorist activity, acts of violence, natural disasters, public health emergencies and other catastrophic events;

increased scrutiny and changing expectations regarding our environmental, social and governance practices and reporting;

our reliance on key personnel and the intense competition to attract and retain management and key employees in the gaming industry;

work stoppages and

other labor problems;
our ability to retain performers and other entertainment offerings on acceptable terms; and

Otherother factors set forth under “Itemdescribed in Part II, Item 1A. Risk Factors.”

“Risk Factors” contained herein and our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K filed with the SEC.

In light of these and other risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the forward‑lookingforward-looking events discussed in this report might not occur. These forward‑lookingforward-looking statements speak only as of the date ofon which this Annual Report on Form 10‑K,statement is made, even if subsequently made available on our website or otherwise, and we do not intend to update publicly any forward‑lookingforward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances that occur after the date on which the statement is made, except as may be required by law.

Table of Contents
15


You should also be aware that while we from time to time communicate with securities analysts, we do not disclose to them any material non‑publicnon-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.


Available Information

We file annual, quarterly and special reports, proxy statements and other information with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). You may read and copy, at prescribed rates, any document we have filed at the SEC’s public reference room in Washington, D.C. Please call the SEC at 1‑800‑SEC‑0330 (1‑800‑732‑0330) for further information on the public reference room. The SEC also maintains a website that contains reports, proxy and information statements and other information regarding registrants that file electronically with the SEC (http://www.sec.gov). You also may read and copy reports and other information filed by us at the officeTable of The NASDAQ Stock Market, One Liberty Plaza, 165 Broadway, New York, NY 10006.

We make our Annual Reports on Form 10‑K, our Quarterly Reports on Form 10‑Q, our Current Reports on Form 8‑K, and all amendments to these reports, available free of charge on our corporate website (www.eldoradoresorts.com) as soon as reasonably practicable after such reports are filed with, or furnished to, the SEC. In addition, our Code of Ethics and Business Conduct and charters of the Audit Committee, Compensation Committee, and the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee are available on our website. We will provide reasonable quantities of electronic or paper copies of filings free of charge upon request. In addition, we will provide a copy of the above referenced charters to stockholders upon request.

References in this document to our website address do not incorporate by reference the information contained on the website into this Annual Report on Form 10‑K.

Contents
16


Item 1A.

Risk Factors.

Item 1A.    Risk Factors
Risks Relating to Operating Our Business
We face substantial competition and expect that such competition will continue.
The gaming industry is highly competitive and competition is intense in most of the markets in which we operate. We compete with a variety of gaming operations, including land-based casinos, dockside casinos, riverboat casinos, casinos located on racing tracks, casinos located on Native American reservations and other forms of legalized gaming such as video gaming terminals at bars, restaurants and truck stops and online gambling and sports betting. We also compete, to a lesser extent, with other forms of legalized gaming and entertainment such as bingo, pull tab games, card parlors, sportsbooks, fantasy sports websites, cruise line operations, pari-mutuel or telephonic betting on horse racing and dog racing, state-sponsored lotteries and, in the future, may compete with gaming at other venues. In addition, we compete more generally with other forms of entertainment for the discretionary spending of our Operations

customers. In some instances, particularly in the case of Native American casinos, our competitors pay lower taxes or no taxes.

In recent years, many casino and online gaming operators, including us, have reinvested in existing jurisdictions to attract new customers or to gain market share, thereby increasing competition in those jurisdictions. In particular, we and other online betting and gaming operators have undertaken extensive marketing campaigns and made significant investments in customer acquisition through pricing and promotional policies. In addition, in response to changing trends, Las Vegas operators have focused on expanding their non-gaming offerings, including upgrades to hotel rooms, new food and beverage offerings, and new entertainment offerings. The expansion of online betting and gaming in new jurisdictions and the growth of the number of competitors in the online betting and gaming market, the expansion of existing casino entertainment properties, the increase in the number of properties, and the aggressive marketing strategies of many of our competitors have increased competition in many markets in which we operate, and this intense competition is expected to continue. These competitive pressures have and are expected to continue to adversely affect our financial performance.
Our brick-and-mortar operations face increasing competition as a result of the expansion of legalized online gaming and betting, including our own online betting and gaming operations, in a number of the jurisdictions in which we operate. While we believe that we are well positioned to compete with new entrants to the betting and gaming market through our online betting and gaming offerings, the competitive dynamic is evolving and we cannot assure you that our results of operations will not be adversely impacted by the expansion of legalized online gaming and betting.
States that already have legalized casino gaming may further expand gaming, and other states that have not yet legalized gaming may do so in the future. We also compete with Native American gaming operations in California and other jurisdictions where Native American tribes operate large-scale gaming facilities or otherwise conduct gaming activities on Native American lands, which we expect will continue to expand. Further expansion of legalized casino gaming in jurisdictions in or near our markets or changes to gaming laws in states in which we have operations and in states near our operations could increase competition and could adversely affect our operations.
Increased competition may require us to make substantial expenditures in marketing, customer development and capital projects to maintain and enhance the competitive positions of our online and brick and mortar operations to increase the attractiveness and add to the appeal of our facilities and product offerings. Because a significant portion of our cash flow is required to pay obligations under our outstanding indebtedness and our lease obligations, there can be no assurance that we will have sufficient funds to undertake, or that we will be able to obtain sufficient financing to fund, such expenditures. If we are unable to make such expenditures, our competitive position could be negatively affected.
Our business is sensitive to reductions in discretionary consumer spending as a result of downturns in the economy and other factors outside our control

control.

Consumer demand for casino hotel and racetrack properties such as oursand online betting and gaming is particularly sensitive to downturns in the economy and the associated impact on discretionary spending on leisure activities. Changes in discretionary consumer spending or consumer preferences brought about by factors such as perceived or actual general economic conditions, effects of declines in consumer confidence in the economy, the impact of high energy and food costs, rising interest rates, the increased cost of travel, the potential for continued bank failures, decreased disposable consumer income and wealth, or fears of war and future acts of terrorism, or widespread illnesses or epidemics, including COVID-19, can have a material adverse effect on leisure and business travel, discretionary spending and other areas of economic behavior that directly impact the gaming and entertainment industries in general and could further reduce customer demand for the amenities and products that we offer. In addition, increases in gasoline prices, including increases prompted by global political and economic instabilities, can adversely affect our casino operations because most of our patrons travel to our properties by car or on airlines that may pass on increases in fuel costs to passengers in the form of higher ticket prices. Further, security concerns, terrorist attacks and other geopolitical events can have
Table of Contents
17


Win rates (hold rates) for our casino operations depend on a material adverse effect on leisure and business travel, discretionary spending and other areasvariety of economic behavior that directly impact the gaming and entertainment industries in general and our business in particular. Economic downturns, geopolitical events and other related factors, some of which impact discretionary consumer spending and other economic events that are beyond our control, have had direct effects on our business and the tourism industryparticipation in the pastsports betting industry exposes us to trading, liability management and could adversely affect us in the future.

pricing risks. We face substantial competition in the hotelmay experience lower than expected profitability and casino industry and expect that such competition will continue

potentially significant losses as a result of factors beyond our control or a failure to accurately determine odds.

The gaming industry is characterized by an increasingly high degreeelement of competition amongchance. Accordingly, we employ theoretical win rates to estimate what a certain type of game, on average, will win or lose in the long run. In addition to the element of chance, win rates (hold percentages) are also affected by the spread of table limits and factors that are beyond our control, such as a player’s skill, experience, and behavior, the mix of games played, the financial resources of players, the volume of bets placed, and the amount of time players spend gambling. As a result of the variability in these factors, the actual win rates at our casinos may differ from the theoretical win rates we have estimated and could result in the winnings of our gaming customers exceeding those anticipated. The variability of win rates (hold rates) also have the potential to negatively impact our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.
Our fixed-odds betting products involve betting where winnings are paid on the basis of the amounts wagered and the odds quoted. Odds are determined with the objective of providing an average return to the bookmaker over a large number of participants, including land-based casinos, dockside casinos, riverboat casinos, casinos locatedevents. However, there can be significant variation in gross win percentage event-by-event and day-by-day. We have systems and controls that seek to reduce the risk of daily losses occurring on racing tracks and casinos located on Native American reservations and other forms of legalized gaming such as video gaming terminals (VGTs) at bars, restaurants and truck stops. We also compete, to a lesser extent, with other forms of legalized gaming and entertainment such as online computer gambling, bingo, pull tab games, card parlors, sports books, fantasy sports websites, “cruise-to-nowhere” operations, pari-mutuel or telephonic betting on horse racing and dog racing, state-sponsored lotteries, jai-alai, and, in the future, may compete with gaming at other venues. In addition, we compete more generally with other forms of entertainment for the discretionary spending of our customers.


Gaming competition is intense in most of the markets in which we operate. States that already have legalized casino gaming may further expand gaming, and other states that have not yet legalized gaming may do so in the future. Legalized casino gaming in these states and on Native American reservations in or near our markets or changes to gaming laws in states in which we have operations and in states near our operations could increase competition and could adversely affect our operations. There has been significant competition in our markets as a result of the expansion of facilities by existing market participants, the entrance of new gaming participants into a market or legislative changes in prior years and expanded gaming is under consideration in certain of our markets. For example, gaming facilities in Ohio that commenced operations in recent years present significant competition for Mountaineer, Presque Isle Downs, Nemacolin and Scioto Downs. In addition, the Governor of Pennsylvania signed legislation in October 2017 expanding gaming to allow for up to ten additional casino locations, video gaming terminals (VGTs) at truck stops, interactive gaming (iGaming), gaming at airports and potentially sports wagering. Further, there are two bills pending before the Missouri General Assembly for the expansion of gaming by allowing Class B gaming licensees and daily fantasy sports licensees to conduct sports wagering and the operation of VLTs at various bars, restaurants, veterans and fraternal organizations and convenience stores throughout the state. Any such expansion of legalized gaming could adversely impact our properties.

Casino gaming is currently prohibited in several jurisdictions from which the Shreveport/Bossier City and Lake Charles markets draw customers, primarily Texas. The Texas legislature has from time to time considered proposals to legalize gaming, andgross-win basis, but there can be no assurance that casino gamingthese will not be approvedeffective in Texas in the future, which couldreducing our exposure to this risk. As a result we may experience (and we have a material adverse effect on Eldorado Shreveport and Isle Lake Charles. Additionally, since visitors from California comprise a significant portion of our customer base in Reno, we also compete with Native American gaming operations in California. Native American tribes are allowed to operate slot machines, lottery games and banking and percentage games on Native American lands. Although many existing Native American gaming facilities in northern California are modest compared to the Nevada properties, a number of Native American tribes have established large-scale gaming facilities in California. Additionally, from time to time the State of Florida has entered into or amended gaming compacts with Native American casinos or enacted, amended or discussed possible changes in gaming laws which could have positive or negative impacts on our Pompano operations. In addition, various forms of internet gaming have been approved in Nevada, New Jersey, Delaware, and Pennsylvania, and legislation permitting internet gaming has been proposed by the federal government and other states. The expansion of internet gaming in Nevada and other jurisdictions could result inexperienced) significant additional competition.

Increased competition may require us to make substantial capital expenditures to maintain and enhance the competitive positions of our properties to increase the attractiveness and add to the appeal of our facilities. Because we are highly leveraged, after satisfying our obligations under our outstanding indebtedness, there can be no assurance that we will have sufficient funds to undertake these expenditures or that we will be able to obtain sufficient financing to fund such expenditures. If we are unable to make such expenditures, our competitive position could be negatively affected.

Our operations in certain jurisdictions depend on agreements with third parties

Our operations in several jurisdictions depend on agreements with third parties. If we are unable to renew these agreements on satisfactory terms as they expire, our business may be disrupted and, in the event of disruptions in multiple jurisdictions, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. For example, Iowa law requires that each gambling venue in Iowa must have a licensed “Qualified Sponsoring Organization,” or QSO, which is a tax-exempt non-profit organization. The QSO must donate the profits it receives from casino operations to educational, civic, public, charitable, patriotic or religious uses. Each of our three Iowa properties has an agreement with a local QSO. We have the right to renew our agreements for Bettendorf and Waterloo when they expire in 2025 and 2021, respectively.

The Federal Interstate Horse Racing Act and the state racing laws in certain jurisdictions where we have racetracks require that, in order to simulcast races, we have written agreements with the horse owners and trainers at those racetracks or that we share proceeds of slot machines at the applicable racetrack. If we fail to maintain operative agreements with the horsemen at our racetracks, we will not be permitted to conduct live racing and export and import simulcasting, and may not be permitted to continue our gaming operations, at the applicable racetrack at those facilities, which could have material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We have a management agreement with Nemacolin Woodlands Resort, the owner of the gaming license issued by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board allowing operation of a casino at the resort. Under the terms of this agreement, we constructed and currently operate a casino at the resort. Our management agreement is subject to a buy-out provision on or after December 31, 2021, as well as other terms and conditions which could result in termination of the management agreement. The base term of the agreement is ten years, with four, five-year renewal options. Additionally, each party to the management agreement has certain termination rights. If the management agreement is terminated, we will no longer have the right to manage our casino at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort.


We are subject to extensive state and local regulation and licensing, and gaming authorities have significant control over our operations, which could have an adverse effect on our business

Licensing Requirements.  The ownership and operation of casino gaming, riverboat and horseracing facilities are subject to extensive federal, state, and local regulation, and regulatory authorities at the federal, state, and local levels have broad powerslosses with respect to the licensingindividual events or betting outcomes, in particular if large individual bets are placed on an event or betting outcome or series of gaming businesses and may revoke, suspend, conditionevents or limit our gaming or other licenses, impose substantial fines, and take other actions, each of which posesbetting outcomes. Any significant losses on a significant risk to our business, financial condition, and results of operations. We currently hold all state and local licenses and related approvals necessary to conduct our present gaming operations, but we must periodically apply to renew many of our licenses and registrations. We cannot assure you that we will be able to obtain such renewals. Any failure to maintain or renew our existing licenses, registrations, permits or approvals would have a material adverse effect on us. Furthermore, if additional laws or regulations are adopted or existing laws or regulations are amended, these regulations could impose additional restrictions or costs that could have a significant adverse effect on us.

Gaming authorities with jurisdiction over our operations may, in their discretion, require the holder of any securities issued by us to file applications, be investigated, and be found suitable to own our securities if they have reason to believe that the security ownership would be inconsistent with the declared policies of their respective jurisdictions. Further, the costs of any investigation conducted by any of the Gaming Authorities under these circumstances must be paid by the applicant, and refusal or failure to pay these charges may constitute grounds for a finding that the applicant is unsuitable to own the securities. If any of the Gaming Authorities determines that a person is unsuitable to own our securities, then, under the applicable gaming or horse racing laws and regulations, we can be sanctioned, including the loss of approvals that are required for us to continue our gaming operations in the relevant jurisdictions, if such unsuitable person does not timely sell our securities.

Our officers, directors, and key employees are also subject to a variety of regulatory requirements and various licensing and related approval procedures in the various jurisdictions in which we operate gaming facilities. If any of the applicable Gaming Authorities were to find an officer, director or key employee of ours unsuitable for licensing or unsuitable to continue having a relationship with us, we would have to sever all relationships with that person. Furthermore, the Gaming Authorities may require us to terminate the employment of any person who refuses to file appropriate applications. Either result could materially adversely affect our gaming operations.

Applicable gaming laws and regulations restrict our ability to issue securities, incur debt and undertake other financing activities. Such transactions would generally require approval of applicable Gaming Authorities, and our financing counterparties, including lenders, might be subject to various licensing and related approval procedures in the various jurisdictions in which we operate gaming facilities. If state regulatory authorities were to find any person unsuitable with regard to his, her or its relationship to us or any of our subsidiaries, we would be required to sever our relationships with that person, which could materially adversely affect our business.

Compliance with Other Laws.  We are also subject to a variety of other federal, state and local laws, rules, regulations and ordinances that apply to non-gaming businesses, including zoning, environmental, construction and land-use laws and regulations governing smoking and the serving of alcoholic beverages. Legislation in various forms to ban indoor tobacco smoking has been enacted or introduced in many states and local jurisdictions, including several of the jurisdictions in which we operate. If additional restrictions on smoking are enacted in our jurisdictions, we could experience a significant decrease in gaming revenue and, particularly if such restrictions are not applicable to all competitive facilities in that gaming market, our business could be materially adversely affected. Under various federal, state and local laws and regulations, an owner or operator of real property may be held liable for the costs of removal or remediation of certain hazardous or toxic substances or wastes located on its property, regardless of whether or not the present owner or operator knows of, or is responsible for, the presence of such substances or wastes. We have not identified any issues associated with our properties that could reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect on us or the results of our operations. However, several of our properties are located in industrial areas or were used for industrial purposes for many years. As a consequence, it is possible that historical or neighboring activities have affected one or more of our properties and that, as a result, environmental issues could arise in the future, the precise nature of which we cannot now predict. The coverage and attendant compliance costs associated with these laws, regulations and ordinances may result in future additional costs.


Regulations adopted by FINCEN require us to report currency transactions in excess of $10,000 occurring within a gaming day, including identification of the patron by name and social security number. U.S. Treasury Department regulations also require us to report certain suspicious activity, including any transaction that exceeds $5,000, if we know, suspect or have reason to believe that the transaction involves funds from illegal activity or is designed to evade federal regulations or reporting requirements. Substantial penalties can be imposed if we fail to comply with these regulations. FINCEN has recently increased its focus on gaming companies.

We are required to report certain customer’s gambling winnings via form W-2G to comply with current Internal Revenue Service regulations. Should these regulations change, we would expect to incur additional costs to comply with the revised reporting requirements.

Taxation and Fees. In addition, gaming companies are generally subject to significant revenue-based taxes and fees in addition to normal federal, state, and local income taxes, and such taxes and fees are subject to increase at any time. We pay substantial taxes and fees with respect to our operations. From time to time, federal, state, and local legislators and officials have proposed changes in tax laws, or in the administration of such laws, affecting the gaming industry. In addition, worsening economic conditions could intensify the efforts of state and local governments to raise revenues through increases in gaming taxes and/or property taxes. It is not possible to determine with certainty the likelihood of changes in tax laws or in the administration of such laws. Such changes, if adopted,gross-win basis could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

In addition, the odds that we offer in our sportsbook operations may occasionally contain an obvious error. Examples of such errors are inverted lines between teams, or odds that are significantly different from the true odds of the outcome in a way that all reasonable persons would agree is an error. If regulatory restrictions do not permit us to void or re-set odds to correct odds on bets associated with large obvious errors in odds making, we could be subject to covering significant liabilities.
We rely on third parties to provide services that are essential to the operation of our online betting and gaming business, including, player account management, geolocation and identity verification, payment processing and sports data.
We rely on third parties to provide services that are essential to the operation of our online betting and gaming business, including player account management, geolocation and identity verification systems to ensure we comply with laws and regulations, processing deposits and withdrawals made by our online users and providing information regarding schedules, results, performance and outcomes of sporting events to determine when and how bets are settled. The large numbersoftware, systems and services provided by our third-party providers may not meet our expectations, contain errors or weaknesses, be compromised or experience outages. A failure of statesuch third-party systems to perform effectively, or any service interruption to those systems, could adversely affect our business by preventing users from accessing our online platform, delaying payment or resulting in errors in settling bets, which could give rise to regulatory issues relating to the operation of our business. By way of example, incorrect or misleading geolocation and local governmentsidentity verification data with significantrespect to current or projected budget deficits makes it more likelypotential users received from third-party service providers may result in us inadvertently allowing access to our offerings to individuals who are not permitted to access them or otherwise inadvertently denying access to individuals who are permitted to access them, and errors or failures by our payment processors and sports data providers could result in a failure to timely and accurately process payments to and from users or errors in settling bets. Any such errors or failures could result in violations of applicable regulatory requirements and adversely affect our reputation and our ability to attract and retain our online users. Furthermore, negative publicity related to any of our third-party partners could adversely affect our reputation and brand, and could potentially lead to increased regulatory or litigation exposure.
In addition, if any of our third-party services providers terminates its relationship with us, is unable to maintain necessary regulatory approvals, or refuses to renew its agreement with us on commercially reasonable terms, we would have to find alternate service providers. We cannot be certain that those governmentswe would be able to secure favorable terms from alternative service providers that currently permitare critical to the operation of our business or enter into alternative arrangements in a timely manner. Our digital business, results of operations and prospects would be adversely impacted by our inability or delay in securing replacement services that are sufficient to support our online business or are on comparable terms.
The growth of our digital business will depend, in part, on the success of our strategic relationships with third parties.
We rely on relationships with sports leagues and teams, media companies and other third parties in order to attract users to our offerings. For example, in 2019 we entered into an exclusive sports entertainment partnership with the NFL, making us the first ever “Official Casino Sponsor” in the history of the league. These relationships, along with providers of online services, search engines, social media, directories and other websites and e-commerce businesses direct consumers to our offerings. While we
Table of Contents
18


believe there are other third parties that could drive users to our online offerings, adding or transitioning to them may disrupt our business and increase our costs, and may require us to modify, limit or discontinue certain offerings. Furthermore, sports leagues, teams and venues may enter into exclusive partnerships with our competitors which could adversely affect our ability to offer certain types of wagers. In the event that any of our existing relationships or our future relationships fail to provide services to us in accordance with the terms of our arrangement, or at all, and we are not able to find suitable alternatives, our ability to cost effectively attract consumers could be impacted and our online betting and gaming business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects could be adversely affected.
The growth of our digital business will seekrequire investments in our online offerings, technology and strategic marketing initiatives, which could be costly and negatively impact the economics of our online business.
The online betting and gaming industry is subject to fundrapid and frequent changes in standards, technologies, products and service offerings, as well as in customer demands and preferences and regulations, which will require us to continually introduce and successfully implement new and innovative technologies, marketing strategies, product offerings and enhancements to remain competitive and effectively stimulate customer demand, acceptance and engagement. The process of developing new online offerings and systems is inherently complex and uncertain, and new offerings may not be well received by users, even if they are well-reviewed and of high quality. Developing new offerings and marketing strategies can also divert our management’s attention from other business issues and opportunities. New online offerings that attain market acceptance and aggressive marketing strategies implemented in the competitive online market environment could impact the mix of our existing business, including our casino business, or the share of our patron’s wallets in a manner that could negatively impact our results of operations. In addition, online betting and gaming operates in a competitive environment that requires significant investment in marketing initiatives, including free play and use of a variety of free and paid marketing channels, including television, radio, social media platforms, such deficits withas Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly known as Twitter), and other digital channels. We cannot be sure that our investments in technology, products, service offerings and marketing initiatives will be successful or generate the return on investment that we expect. We have incurred losses in the past in our digital business and cannot be sure that our profitability will continue. If new or increased gaming taxes and/existing competitors offer more attractive offerings or property taxes,engage in marketing initiatives that are better received by customers, we may lose users or users may decrease their spending on our offerings. Further, new customer demands, superior competitive offerings, new industry standards or changes in the regulatory environment could render our offerings unattractive, unmarketable or obsolete and worsening economicrequire us to make substantial unanticipated changes to our technology or business model. Failure to adapt to a rapidly changing market or evolving customer demands, and costs required to be incurred to react to dynamic market conditions, could intensify those efforts. Any materialharm our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
We face the risk of fraud, theft, and cheating.
We face the risk that gaming customers may attempt or commit fraud or theft or cheat in order to increase winnings. Such acts of fraud, theft, or cheating could involve the adoptionuse of additional taxescounterfeit chips or fees,other tactics, possibly in collusion with our employees. Internal acts of cheating could also be conducted by employees through collusion with dealers, surveillance staff, floor managers, or other casino or gaming area staff. Additionally, we also face the risk that customers may attempt or commit fraud or theft with respect to our non-gaming offerings or against other customers. Such risks include stolen credit or charge cards or cash, falsified checks, theft of retail inventory and purchased goods, and unpaid or counterfeit receipts. Failure to discover such acts or schemes in a timely manner could result in losses in our operations. Negative publicity related to such acts or schemes could have a materialan adverse effect on our future financial results.

Income Taxes. We are subject to tax in multiple U.S. tax jurisdictions. Significant judgment is required in determining our provision for income taxes, deferred tax assets or liabilities and in evaluating our tax positions. While we believe our tax positions are consistent with the tax laws in the jurisdictions in which we conduct our business, it is possible that these positions may be overturned by jurisdictional tax authorities, which may have a significant impact on our provision for income taxes.

Tax laws are dynamic and subject to change as new laws are passed and new interpretations of the law are issued or applied. The U.S. recently enacted significant tax reform, and certain provisions of the new law may adversely affect us. In addition, governmental tax authorities are increasingly scrutinizing the tax positions of companies. If U.S. or state tax authorities change applicable tax laws, our overall taxes could increase, and our business, financial condition or results of operations may be adversely impacted.

We rely on our key personnel and we may face difficulties in attracting and retaining qualified employees for our casinos and race tracks

Our future success will depend upon, among other things, our ability to keep our senior executives and highly qualified employees. We compete with other potential employers for employees, and we may not succeed in hiring or retaining the executives and other employees that we need. A sudden loss of or inability to replace key employees could havereputation, potentially causing a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operation.

operations, and cash flows.

We extend credit to a portion of our customers, and we may not be able to collect gaming receivables from our credit customers.
We conduct our gaming activities on a credit and cash basis. Any such credit we extend is unsecured. High-stakes players typically are extended more credit than customers who tend to wager lower amounts. High-end gaming is more volatile than other forms of gaming, and variances in win-loss results attributable to high-end gaming may have a significant positive or negative impact on cash flow and earnings in a particular period. We extend credit to those customers whose level of play and financial resources warrant, in the opinion of management, an extension of credit. These large receivables could have a significant impact on our results of operations if deemed uncollectible. Gaming debts evidenced by a credit instrument, including what is commonly referred to as a “marker,” and judgments on gaming debts are enforceable under the current laws of the jurisdictions in which we allow play on a credit basis, and judgments on gaming debts in such jurisdictions are enforceable in all U.S. states under the Full Faith and Credit Clause of the U.S. Constitution; however, other jurisdictions may determine that enforcement of gaming debts is against public policy. Although courts of some foreign nations will enforce gaming debts directly and the assets in the U.S. of foreign debtors may be reached to satisfy a judgment, judgments on gaming debts from U.S. courts are not binding on the courts of many foreign nations.
Table of Contents
19


In addition, the operationChinese government has taken steps to prohibit the transfer of our business requires qualified executives, managers and skilled employees with gaming and horse racing industry experience and qualifications who are able to obtaincash for the requisite licenses and approval from the applicable Gaming Authorities. While not currently the case, there has from time to time been a shortage of skilled labor in our markets. In addition to limitations that may otherwise exist in the supply of skilled labor, the continued expansionpayment of gaming near our facilities, includingdebts. These developments may have the expansioneffect of Native Americanreducing the collectability of gaming may make it more difficult for us to attract qualified individuals. While we believe that wedebts of players from China. It is unclear whether these and other measures will continue to be able to attract and retain qualified employees, shortages of skilled labor will make it increasingly difficult and expensive to attract and retain the services of a satisfactory number of qualified employees, and we may incur higher costs than expected as a result.


Work stoppages, organizing drives and other labor problems could negatively impact our future profits

As of December 31, 2017, we had 11 collective bargaining agreements covering approximately 970 employees. A lengthy strikein effect or other work stoppages at any of our casino properties could have an adverse effect on our business and results of operations. Given the large number of employees, labor unions are making a concerted effort to recruitbecome more employeesrestrictive in the gaming industry, including at some of our properties. As a result, we cannot provide any assurance that we will not experience additional and more successful union organization activity in the future.

Some of our casinos are located on leased property. If we default on one or more leases, the applicable lessors could terminate the affected leases and we could lose possession of the affected casino

We lease certain parcels of land on which several of our properties are located. As a ground lessee, we have the right to use the leased land; however, we do not hold fee ownership in the underlying land. Accordingly, with respect to the leased land, we will have no interest in the land or improvements thereon at the expiration of the ground leases. Moreover, since we do not completely control the land underlying the property, a landowner could take certain actions to disrupt our rights in the land leased under the long-term leases which are beyond our control. If the entity owning any leased land chose to disrupt our use either permanently or for a significant period of time, then the value of our assets could be impaired and our business and operations could be adversely affected. If we were to default on any one or more of these leases, the applicable lessors could terminate the affected leases and we could lose possession of the affected land These and any improvements on the land, including the hotels and casinos. This would have a significant adverse effect onfuture foreign currency control policy developments that may be implemented by foreign jurisdictions could significantly impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.

The outbreak of pandemics and other public health matters and related impacts have had, and may once again have, a significant impact on our operations asand results of operations.
Public health issues and mitigation measures recommended or required by public health officials have had a material adverse effect on our operations. For example, all of our casino properties were temporarily closed for several weeks during 2020 due to orders issued by various government agencies and tribal bodies. Following re-opening of our properties, our operations were affected by social distancing measures, including reduced gaming operations, limitations on number of customers present in our facilities, restrictions on hotel, food and beverage outlets and limits on events that would otherwise attract customers to our properties. While restrictions on our operations were eased in 2021 and we would then be unableexperienced positive operating trends, prolonged impacts on the economy, our industry and our business continued, with increased challenges arising from labor shortages, higher labor costs, supply chain challenges, increasing costs of goods and services, inflation and rising interest rates, among other impacts. The extent and duration of the impact of such measures on our business is difficult to predict and such impacts may intensify.
Acts of terrorism, war, natural disasters, severe weather, and political, economic and military conditions may impede our ability to operate all or portionsmay negatively impact our financial results.
Terrorist attacks and other acts of war or hostility have created many economic and political uncertainties. For example, a substantial number of the affected facilities and may result in the default under our new credit facility.

Because we own real property, we will be subject to extensive environmental regulation, which creates uncertainty regarding future environmental expenditures and liabilities

We are subject to various federal, state and local environmental, health and safety laws and regulations that govern activities that may have adverse environmental effects, such as discharges to air and water, as well as the use, storage, discharge, emission and disposal of solid, animal and hazardous wastes and exposure to hazardous materials. These laws and regulations are complex and frequently subject to change. In addition, our horseracing facilities are subject to laws and regulations that address the impacts of manure and wastewater generated by Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (“CAFO”) on water quality, including, but not limited to, storm water discharges. CAFO regulations include permit requirements and water quality discharge standards. Enforcement of CAFO regulations has been receiving increased governmental attention. Compliance with these and other environmental laws can, in some circumstances, require significant capital expenditures. We have from time to time been responsible for investigating and remediating, or contributing to remediation costs related to, contamination located at or near certaincustomers of our facilities, including contamination related to underground storage tanksproperties in Las Vegas use air travel. As a result of terrorist acts that occurred on September 11, 2001, domestic and groundwater contamination arising from prior uses of land oninternational travel was severely disrupted, which certain of our facilities are located. In addition, we have been, and mayresulted in the future be, required to manage, abate, remove or contain manure and wastewater generated by concentrated animal feeding operations duea decrease in customer visits to our racetrack operations, mold, lead, asbestos‑containing materialsproperties in Las Vegas. Visitation to Las Vegas also declined for a period of time following the mass shooting tragedy on October 1, 2017. We cannot predict the extent to which disruptions in air or other hazardous conditions found in or on our properties. Moreover, violations can result in significant fines or penalties and, in some instances, interruption or cessationforms of operations.

We are also subject to laws and regulations that create liability and cleanup responsibility for releases of regulated materials into the environment. Certain of these laws and regulations impose strict, and under certain circumstances joint and several, liability on a current or previous owner or operator of property for the costs of remediating regulated materials on or emanating from its property. The costs of investigation, remediation or removal of those substances may be substantial.


An earthquake, hurricane, flood, other natural disaster or act of terrorism could adversely affect our business

The operations of our facilities are subject to disruption or reduced patronagetravel as a result of severe weather conditions, natural disastersany further terrorist act, security alerts or war, uprisings, or hostilities in places such as Iraq, Afghanistan, Israel, Ukraine, and/or Syria or other countries throughout the world, and governmental responses to those acts or hostilities, will directly or indirectly impact our business and operating results. For example, a third party that is responsible for our player account management has employees located internationally in countries impacted by such hostility and further negative developments in such countries could negatively impact our digital business. As a consequence of the threat of terrorist attacks and other casualty events. The Reno area has been, and mayacts of war or hostility in the future, premiums for a variety of insurance products have increased, and some types of insurance may no longer be subjectavailable. If any such event were to affect our properties, we would likely be adversely affected.

In addition, natural and man-made disasters such as major fires, floods, severe snowstorms, hurricanes, earthquakes, and otheroil spills could also adversely impact our business and operating results. Severe weather and natural disasters may increase in frequency and Eldorado Shreveport is located inseverity as a designated flood zone. Because manyresult of our gaming operations are located on or adjacentclimate change. Such events could lead to bodies of water, these facilities are subject to risks in addition to those associated with other casinos, includingthe loss of service due to casualty, forcesuse of nature, mechanical failure, extended or extraordinary maintenance, flood, hurricane or other severe weather conditions and other disasters. For example, flooding along the Mississippi River can impact fiveone or more of our properties for an extended period of time and resultdisrupt our ability to attract customers to certain of our gaming facilities. For example, our property in them being closed for differing periods of time. Our properties in Florida andLake Charles, Louisiana are particularly vulnerable to hurricanes, wind and storm surge. Our Pompano property was closed for four days in 2017 because of storms. In addition, severe weather such as high winds and blizzards occasionally limits accessAugust 2020 until December 2022 due to our land-based facilities in Colorado and Reno.damage resulting from Hurricane Laura. Inadequate insurance or lack of available insurance for these and other certain types or levels of risk could expose us to significant losses in the event that a catastrophe occurred for which we are underinsured. In most cases, we have insurance that covers portions of any losses from a natural disaster, but it is subject to deductibles and maximum payouts in many cases. Although we may be covered by insurance from a natural disaster, the timing of our receipt of insurance proceeds, if any, may be out of our control. In some cases, however, we may receive no proceeds from insurance. In addition, if such events increase in frequency and/or severity, insurance premiums may increase significantly or insurance may not be available to protect against future events. Further, if properties subject to our leases with VICI and GLPI are impacted by a casualty event, such leases require us to repair or restore the affected properties even if the cost of such repair or restoration exceeds the insurance proceeds that we receive. Under such circumstances, the rent under such leases is required to be paid during the period of repair or restoration even if all or a portion of the affected property is not operating. In addition to the damage caused to our properties by a casualty loss, we may suffer business disruption as a result of the casualty event or be subject to claims by third parties that may be injured or harmed. While we carry general liability insurance and business interruption insurance, there can be no assurance that insurance will be available or adequate to cover all loss and damage to which our business or our assets might be subjected.subjected and the timing and receipt of insurance proceeds, if any, may be out of our control.
Table of Contents
20


Increased scrutiny and changing expectations from investors, consumers, employees, regulators, and others regarding our environmental, social and governance practices and reporting could cause us to incur additional costs, devote additional resources and expose us to additional risks, which could adversely impact our reputation, customer attraction and retention, access to capital and employee recruitment and retention.
Companies across all industries are facing increasing scrutiny related to their environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) practices and reporting. Investors, consumers, employees and other stakeholders have focused increasingly on ESG practices and placed increasing importance on the implications and social cost of their investments, purchases and other interactions with companies. With this increased focus, public reporting regarding ESG practices is becoming more broadly expected. If our ESG practices and reporting do not meet investor, consumer or employee expectations, which continue to evolve, our brand, reputation and customer retention may be negatively impacted.
As ESG best practices and reporting standards continue to develop, we may incur increasing costs related to ESG monitoring and reporting and compliance with ESG initiatives. We publish an annual Corporate Social Responsibility Report, which highlights, among other things, our climate change mitigation activities and how we are supporting our workforce, including our diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging efforts. Our disclosures on these matters, or a failure to meet evolving stakeholder expectations for ESG practices and reporting, may potentially harm our reputation and customer relationships.
Furthermore, if our competitors’ ESG performance is perceived to be better than ours, potential or current investors may elect to invest with our competitors instead. In addition, in the event that we communicate certain casualty events,initiatives or goals regarding ESG matters, we could fail, or be perceived to fail, in our achievement of such as labor strikes, nuclear events, lossinitiatives or goals, or we could be criticized for the scope of income duesuch initiatives or goals. If we fail to terrorism, deteriorationsatisfy the expectations of investors, customers, employees and other stakeholders, or corrosion, insect or animal damage and pollution, may not be covered under our policies. Any losses we incur thatinitiatives are not adequately covered by insurance may decreaseexecuted as planned, our future operating income, require usbusiness, financial condition, results of operations and prospects could be adversely affected.
Our ability to fund replacements or repairs for destroyed property and reduce the funds available for paymentsachieve any ESG objective is subject to numerous risks, many of which are outside of our obligations. Further, we renew our insurance policies on an annual basis. Thecontrol. Examples of such risks include:
the availability and cost of coverage may become so highlow- or non-carbon-based energy sources;
the evolving regulatory requirements affecting ESG standards or disclosures;
the availability of suppliers that can meet sustainability, diversity and other ESG standards that we may needset;
our ability to further reducerecruit, develop and retain diverse talent in our policy limitslabor markets; and
the success of our organic growth and acquisitions or agreedispositions of businesses or operations.
If we fail, or are perceived to certain exclusions from coverage. Among other factors,be failing, to meet the standards or objectives included in any sustainability disclosure or the expectations of our various stakeholders, it is possible that regional political tensions, homeland security concerns, other catastrophic eventscould negatively impact our reputation, customer attraction and retention, access to capital and employee retention. In addition, new sustainability rules and regulations have been adopted and may continue to be introduced. Our failure to comply with any applicable rules or regulations could lead to penalties and adversely impact our reputation, customer attraction and retention, access to capital and employee retention.
Climate change regulations and greenhouse gas effects may adversely impact our operations.
We may become subject to legislation and regulation regarding climate change, and compliance with any changenew rules could be difficult, burdensome and costly. Concerned parties, such as legislators and regulators, stockholders and nongovernmental organizations, as well as companies in government legislation governing insurance coverage for acts of terrorism could materially adversely affect available insurance coverage and result in increased premiums on available coverage (which may cause us to electmany business sectors, are considering ways to reduce our policy limits), additional exclusions from coveragegreenhouse gas (“GHG”) emissions. Many states have announced or higher deductibles. Among other potential future adverse changes,adopted programs to stabilize and reduce GHG emissions and, in the future we may electpast, federal legislation has been proposed in Congress. We expect to not, or may not be able to, obtain any coverage for losses due to acts of terrorism.

We are subject to risks relating to mechanical failure, forces of nature, casualty, extraordinary maintenanceincur increased energy, environmental and other causes

Allcosts and capital expenditures to comply with new regulations and legislation. Further, regulation of GHG emissions may limit our facilities will generallycustomers’ ability to travel to our properties (e.g. as a result of increased fuel costs or restrictions on transport-related emissions).

Our business may be subject to the risk that operations could be halted for a temporary or extended period of time, as the result of casualty, forces of nature, mechanical failure, or extended or extraordinary maintenance, among other causes. In addition, our gaming operations could be damaged or haltedfluctuations due to extreme weather conditions. These risks are particularly pronounced at our riverboatseasonality and dockside facilities because of their locations on and adjacent to water.

We are or may become involved in legal proceedingsother factors that if adversely adjudicated or settled, could impact our business and financial condition

From time to time, we are named in lawsuits or other legal proceedings relating to our respective businesses. In particular, the nature of our business subjects us to the risk of lawsuits filed by customers, past and present employees, competitors, business partners and others in the ordinary course of business. As with all legal proceedings, no assurances can be given as to the outcome of these matters. Moreover, legal proceedings can be expensive and time consuming, and we may not be successful in defending or prosecuting these lawsuits, which could result in settlementsvolatility and have an adverse effect on our operating results.

Our business may fluctuate due to seasonality and other factors. Our casino business is impacted by weather conditions that may deter or damagesprevent customers from reaching the facilities or undertaking trips, which would particularly affect customers who are traveling longer distances to visit our properties. Our casino business can also fluctuate due to specific holidays or other significant events, particularly when the holiday falls in a different quarter than the prior year, the World Series of Poker tournament (with respect to our Las Vegas properties), city-wide conventions, a large sporting event or a concert, or visits by our premium players. Our sportsbook business may also be impacted by availability or scheduling of major sporting events or the cancellation or postponement of sporting events or races, including lockouts, strikes or similar disruptions. Seasonality,
Table of Contents
21


holiday, or other significant events may affect our digital operations, properties or regions differently. These factors, among other things, could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and operating results, cause volatility in the trading price of our stock and impact our cash flow from quarter to quarter.
Our business is particularly sensitive to energy or water prices and a rise in these prices could harm our operating results.
We are a large consumer of electricity, water and other energy and utility services and, therefore, higher prices may have an adverse effect on our results of operations. Accordingly, increases in energy costs may have a negative impact on our operating results. Additionally, higher electricity and gasoline prices that affect our customers may result in reduced visitation to our resorts and a reduction in our revenues. Further, our operations or the operations of our critical supplies could significantlybe negatively impacted by the duration of drought conditions, or other cause of water stress or shortages, such as those experienced in the southwest United States, or other areas in which we operate. We may be indirectly impacted by regulatory requirements aimed at reducing the impacts of climate change directed at up-stream utility providers, and we could experience potentially higher utility, fuel, water and transportation costs.
Any deterioration in our reputation or the reputation of our brands could adversely impact our business, financial condition, andor results of operations.


Our business is dependent on the quality and reputation of our Company and brands. Events beyond our control could affect the reputation of one or more of our properties, including our digital operations, or more generally impact our corporate or brand image. Other factors that could influence our reputation include the quality of the services we offer and our actions with regard to social issues such as diversity, human rights and support for local communities. Broad access to social media makes it easy for anyone to provide public feedback that can influence perceptions of us, our brands or our properties. It may be difficult to control or effectively manage negative publicity, regardless of whether it is accurate. Negative events and publicity could quickly and materially damage perceptions of us, our brands or our properties, which, in turn, could adversely impact our business, financial condition or results of operations through loss of customers, loss of business opportunities, lack of acceptance of our Company to operate in host communities, employee retention or recruiting difficulties or other difficulties.

Risks Relating to Information Systems and Technology
Compromises of our information technology and other systems are subjector unauthorized access to cyber security risk including misappropriation of customerconfidential information or other breaches ofour customers’ personal information security

could materially harm our reputation and business.

We collect and store confidential, personal information relating to our guests and employeescustomers for various business purposes, including marketing and promotionalfinancial purposes, and credit card information for processing payments. For example, we handle, collect and store personal information in connection with our customers staying at our hotels and enrolling in Caesars Rewards. We may share this personal and confidential information with vendors or other third parties in connection with processing of transactions, operating certain aspects of our business, or for marketing purposes. TheOur collection and use of personal data are governed by state and federal privacy laws and regulations enactedas well as the applicable laws and regulations in other countries in which we operate. Privacy law is subject to frequent changes and varies significantly by jurisdiction. We may incur significant costs in order to ensure compliance with the various applicable privacy requirements. In addition, privacy laws and regulations may limit our ability to market to our customers.
We assess and monitor the security of collection, storage, and transmission of customer information on an ongoing basis, including utilizing commercially available software and technologies to monitor, assess and secure our network. Further, some of the systems currently used for transmission and approval of payment card transactions and the technology utilized in payment cards themselves, all of which can put payment card data at risk, are determined and controlled by the payment card industry, and other such systems are determined and controlled by us. Although we had taken steps designed to safeguard our customers’ confidential personal information and important internal company data, on September 14, 2023, we announced that we identified suspicious activity in our information technology network resulting from a social engineering attack on one of our outsourced IT support vendors and that we determined that the unauthorized actor acquired a copy of, among other data, our loyalty program database, which includes driver’s license numbers and/or social security numbers for a significant number of members in the United States.database (the “Data Incident”). We rely on information technologytook steps to ensure that the stolen data was deleted by the unauthorized actor and are working with industry-leading third-party IT advisors, to harden our systems and implement corrective measures to protect against future attacks that could pose a threat to our systems. We have also taken steps to require that the specific outsourced IT support vendor involved in this matter implemented corrective measures to protect against future attacks that could pose a threat to our systems. While we took these actions, we cannot assure that the stolen data was deleted by the unauthorized actor or that our network and other systems to maintain and transmit this personal and financial information, credit card settlements, credit card funds transmissions, mailing lists and reservations information. Our information and processes are subject to the ever-changing threat of compromised security, in the form of a risk of potential breach, system failure, computer virus, or unauthorized or fraudulent use by customers, company employees, or employeesthose of third party vendors. The steps we take to deter and mitigate these risks mayparties, such as service providers, will not be successful, and any resulting compromisecompromised, damaged, or loss of data or systems could adversely impact, operations or regulatory compliance and could result in remedial expenses, fines, litigation, and loss of reputation, potentially impacting our financial results.

In addition, third party service providers and other business partners process and maintain proprietary business information and data related to our guests, suppliers and other business partners. Our information technology and other systems that maintain and transmit this information, or those of service providers or business partners, may also be compromiseddisrupted by a malicious third party penetrationthird-party breach of our networksystem security or that of a third party servicethird-party provider or business partner,as a result of purposeful or impacted by intentional or unintentionalaccidental actions or inactions byof third parties, our employees, or those employees of a third party, power outages, computer viruses, system failures, natural disasters, or other catastrophic events in the future. Our third-party information

Table of Contents
22


system service provider or business partner.providers face risks relating to cybersecurity similar to ours, and we do not directly control any of such parties’ information security operations. As an example, the Data Incident arose from a social engineering attack on one of our outsourced IT vendors. Advances in computer and software capabilities, encryption technology, new tools, and other developments may increase the risk of a future security breach. As a result our businessof the Data Incident, customer information guest, supplier, and other business partner data was accessed by an unauthorized actor. Any future security breach may be lost, disclosed,also result in customer information or other proprietary data being accessed or transmitted by or to a third party. Despite the measures we have implemented to safeguard our information, including actions taken without their consent.

following the Data Incident, there can be no assurance that we are adequately protecting our information.

As a result of the Data Incident, we have become subject to multiple lawsuits and inquiries from state regulators and we may become subject to additional lawsuits, claims and inquiries related to the Data Incident. While the Data Incident did not impact our customer-facing operations, we are unable to predict the full impact of the Data Incident, including any regulatory effects or changes in guest behavior in the future, including whether a change in our guests’ behavior could negatively impact our financial condition and results of operations on an ongoing basis.
We have cybersecurity insurance to respond to a breach which is designed to cover expenses associated with a cybersecurity incident, including costs related to notification, credit monitoring, investigation, crisis management, public relations and legal advice. We also carry other insurance which may cover ancillary aspects of cybersecurity events. While we have submitted claims for insurance coverage relating to the costs incurred as a result of the Data Incident, we are not certain of the extent to which such coverage or third-party indemnification will cover of such future costs.
Any suchfuture data security breaches giving rise to a loss, disclosure orof, misappropriation of, or access to guests’customers’ or business partners’other proprietary information or other breach of our information security cancould result in additional legal claims or legal proceedings, including regulatory investigations and actions, may have a serious impact onor liability for failure to comply with privacy and information security laws, including for failure to protect personal information or for misusing personal information could damage our reputation, and expose us to additional claims from customers, financial institutions, regulators, payment card associations, employees, and other persons, any of which could have an adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flow. Any such damages and claims arising from a future breach may not be completely covered or may exceed the amount of any insurance available.
Our operations, and particularly our digital betting and gaming operations, are reliant on information technology and other systems and services, and any failures, errors, defects or disruptions in our systems or services could adversely affect our operations.
Our technology infrastructure is critical to the performance of our digital betting and gaming operations and to user satisfaction and we rely significantly on our computer systems and software to receive and properly process internal and external data, including data related to Caesars Rewards. We devote significant resources to our technology infrastructure, but our systems may not be adequate to avoid performance delays or outages that could be harmful to our online business. In addition, while we believe we have taken appropriate steps, working with industry-leading third-party IT advisors, to harden our systems following the Data Incident and implement corrective measures to protect against future attacks that could pose a threat to our systems. We cannot assure you that such measures or any additional measures we take to prevent cyber-attacks and protect our systems, data and user information and to prevent outages, data or information loss, fraud and to prevent or detect security breaches will be sufficient to ensure uninterrupted operation of our digital platform and provide absolute security. We have experienced, and we may in the future experience, website disruptions, outages and other performance problems due to a variety of factors, including infrastructure changes, human or software errors and capacity constraints. Disruptions from unauthorized access to, fraudulent manipulation of, or tampering with our computer systems and technological infrastructure, or those of third parties that provide support to our operations, could result in a wide range of negative outcomes, each of which could materially adversely affect the operation of our online business and our financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
Additionally, our computer systems and software may fail or may contain errors, bugs, flaws or corrupted data, and these defects may only become apparent after the launch of our online products. These types of issues could disrupt our operations or render a product unavailable when users attempt to access it or cause access to our offerings to be slower than our users expect. Inaccessibility or slow access to our products could make users less likely to return to our digital platform as often, if at all, or to recommend our offerings to other potential users, which could harm our brand perception, cause our users to stop utilizing our online offerings, divert our resources and delay market acceptance of our online offerings.
Our information systems are not fully redundant and our disaster recovery planning cannot account for all eventualities. If our systems are damaged, breached, attacked, interrupted, or otherwise cease to function properly, we may have to make a significant investment to repair or replace them, and may experience loss or corruption of critical data as well as suffer interruptions in our business operations in the interim.
Table of Contents
23


We expect that we will continue to expand our online betting and gaming offerings as our user base grows and we enter into new markets, which will require an enhancement of our technical infrastructure, including network capacity and computing power, and may require additional reliance on third party providers to support the growth of our digital business and to satisfy our users’ needs. Such infrastructure expansion may be complex and costly, and unanticipated delays in completing these projects or availability of components may lead to increased project costs, operational inefficiencies, or interruptions in the delivery or degradation of the quality of our offerings. In addition, there may be issues related to our online infrastructure that are not identified during the testing phases of design and implementation and become evident after we have started to fully use the underlying equipment or software, which could impact the user experience or increase our costs. An inability to effectively scale our technical infrastructure to accommodate increased demands could adversely impact our ability to grow our digital betting and gaming business.
Our online business is dependent on the Internet and we rely on Amazon Web Services and other third-party technology, platforms and services to deliver our offerings to users.
A substantial portion of the infrastructure that is required to enable users to access our digital betting and gaming offerings is provided by third parties, including Internet service providers and other technology-based service providers. In particular, we currently host our online betting and gaming offerings and support our operations using Amazon Web Services (“AWS”) and other third-party technology, platforms and services. Our third-party providers may experience service interruptions, delays, outages or damage, including due to capacity constraints, an event causing an unusually high volume of Internet use (such as a pandemic or public health emergency), infrastructure changes or upgrades (such as 5G or 6G services), human or software errors, website hosting disruptions, natural disasters, cybersecurity attacks, terrorist attacks, power outages and similar events or acts of misconduct. We exercise little control over our third-party providers and any difficulties that these providers experience, including the potential of certain network traffic receiving priority over other traffic (i.e., lack of net neutrality), may adversely affect our businesses, operating resultsbusiness. Because our ability to provide our users with continuing and financial condition. Furthermore,uninterrupted access to our platform is critical to the loss, disclosure or misappropriationsuccess of our digital business, information may adversely affectwe use our reputation, businesses, operating resultsbest efforts to ensure that our facilities and financial condition.

Our operations have historically been subject to seasonal variations and quarterly fluctuations in operating results, and we can expect to experience such variations and fluctuations in the future

Historically, our operations have typically been subject to seasonal variations. Our strongest operating results for our Reno properties have generally occurred in the second and third quartersinfrastructure and the weakest results have generally occurred during the period from November through February when weather conditions adversely affected operating results. Winter conditions can frequently adversely affect transportation routes to Reno, where a significantfacilities and infrastructure of our visitors arrive by ground transportation,third-party providers support our current and certainexpected operations and are designed to mitigate the impacts of system malfunctions. Nevertheless, there can be no guarantee that such systems will be able to meet the demand of our other propertiescurrent and future digital business, the overall online betting and gaming industry and the growth of the Internet. Furthermore, if we do not maintain business relationships with our third-party providers, and in particular, AWS, we may not be able to secure required third-party services on terms that are acceptable to us or on an acceptable time frame. Any of these risks could result in a loss of revenue and cause cancellations of live horse racing. For example, the Reno-Tahoe area experienced exceptionally high levels of snowfall in the first quarter of 2017, with certain resorts in the Tahoe area reporting over 50 feet of snowfall during such time,us to incur unexpected costs that could be significant, which adversely affected visitation to our Reno properties and adversely affected our results of operations for the first quarter. As a result, unfavorable seasonal conditions could have a material adverse effect on our operations.

The concentrationonline business, financial condition, results of operations and evolutionprospects.

Our online business model depends upon the continued compatibility between our apps and the major mobile operating systems and upon third-party platforms for the distribution of our product offerings, which depend on factors beyond our control such as the design of third-party operating systems and continued access to our apps on third-party distribution platforms like the Apple App Store.
Our digital business is dependent on the interoperability of our technology with popular mobile operating systems, technologies, networks and standards as our users access our online betting and gaming product offerings primarily on mobile devices. As a result, our business model depends upon the continued compatibility between our app and the major mobile operating systems, such as the Android and iOS operating systems, and we rely upon third-party platforms for distribution of our product offerings. We do not have formal or informal relationships with parties that control design of mobile devices and operating systems and there is no guarantee that popular mobile devices will start or continue to support or feature our product offerings. Any changes, bugs, technical or regulatory issues in such operating systems, our relationships with mobile manufacturers and carriers, or in their terms of service or policies that degrade our offerings’ functionality, reduce or eliminate our ability to distribute our offerings, give preferential treatment to competitive products, limit our ability to deliver high quality offerings, or impose fees or other charges related to delivering our offerings, could adversely affect our product usage and monetization on mobile devices. In addition, if any of the slot machine manufacturing industry could impose additional costs on us

There are a limited number of slot machine manufacturers servicing the gaming industry and a large majoritythird-party platforms used for distribution of our revenues are derived from slot machines at our casinos. It is important, for competitive reasons, that we offerproduct offerings were to limit or disable the most popular and up-to-date slot machine games with the latest technology to customers.

In recent years, slot machine manufacturers have frequently refused to sell slot machines featuring the most popular games, instead requiring participating lease arrangements. Generally, a participating lease is substantially more expensive over the long-term than the cost to purchase a new slot machine.

For competitive reasons, we may be forced to acquire new slot machines, slot machine systems or gaming and hotel technology and equipment, or enter into participating lease arrangements, that are more expensive than our costs associated with the continued operationavailability of our existing slot machines, equipmentapp or advertising on their platforms, our ability to generate revenue could be harmed. These changes could materially impact the way we do business, and software. If the newer slot machines, equipment or software do not result in sufficient incremental revenues to offset the increased investment, or if we are unable to successfully implement new software or technology, itadjust to those changes quickly and effectively, there could adversely affectbe an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and profitability.

prospects.

Risks Related to Human Capital

We rely on our key personnel and we may face risks associated with growthdifficulties in attracting and acquisitions

As partretaining qualified employees for our casinos and racetracks.

Our future success will depend upon, among other things, our ability to keep our senior executives and highly qualified employees. The operation of our business strategy, we regularly evaluate opportunities for growth through developmentrequires qualified executives, managers and skilled employees with gaming and horse
Table of gaming operations in existing or new markets, through acquiring other gaming entertainment facilities or through redeveloping our existing gaming facilities. In the future, we may also pursue expansion opportunities, including joint ventures, in jurisdictions where casino gaming is not currently permitted in order to be prepared to develop projects upon approval of casino gaming.

Although we only intend to engage in acquisitions that, if consummated, will be accretive to usContents

24


racing industry experience and our stockholders, we cannot be sure that we will bequalifications who are able to identify attractive acquisition opportunities or that we will experience the return on investment that we expect. In addition, acquisitions require significant management attention and resources to integrate new properties, businesses and operations. Potential difficulties we may encounter as part of the integration process include:

the inability to successfully incorporate acquired assets in a manner that permits us to achieve the full revenue and other benefits anticipated to result from the acquired operations;

complexities associated with managing the combined business, including difficulties addressing possible differences in cultures and management philosophies and the challenge of integrating complex systems, technology, networks and other assets of each of the companies in a seamless manner that minimizes any adverse impact on customers, suppliers, employees and other constituencies; and

potential unknown liabilities and unforeseen increased expenses associated with acquired properties.  

In addition, it is possible that the integration process could result in:

diversion of the attention of our management;

the disruption of, or the loss of momentum in, our ongoing businesses; and

inconsistencies in standards, controls, procedures and policies,  

any of which could adversely affect our ability to maintain relationships with customers, suppliers, employees and other constituencies or our ability to achieve the anticipated benefits, or could reduce our earnings or otherwise adversely affect our business and financial results.

There can be no assurance that we will be able to identify, acquire, develop or profitably manage additional companies or operations or successfully integrate such companies or operations, into our existing operations without substantial costs, delays or other problems. Additionally, there can be no assurance that we will receive gaming or other necessary licenses or approvals for new projects that we may pursue or that gaming will be approved in jurisdictions where it is not currently approved.

We may experience construction delays or cost overruns during our expansion or development projects that could adversely affect our operations

From time to time, we may commence construction projects on new properties or at our current properties. We also evaluate other expansion opportunities as they become available and may in the future engage in additional construction projects. The anticipated costs and construction periods for construction projects are based upon budgets, conceptual design documents and construction schedule estimates prepared by us in consultation with our architects. Construction projects entail significant risks, which can substantially increase costs or delay completion of a project. Such risks include shortages of materials or skilled labor, unforeseen engineering, environmental or geological problems, work stoppages, weather interference and unanticipated cost increases. Most of these factors are beyond our control. In addition, difficulties or delays in obtaining any ofobtain the requisite licenses permits or authorizationsand approval from regulatory authorities can increase the cost or delay the completion of an expansion or development. Significant budget overruns or delaysapplicable gaming authorities. We compete with respect to expansionother potential employers for employees, and development projects could adversely affect our results of operations.


Our planned capital expenditureswe may not resultsucceed in our expected improvements in our business

We regularly expend capital to construct, maintainhiring or retaining the executives and renovate our properties to remain competitive, maintain the value and brand standardsother employees that we need. A sudden loss of our properties and comply with applicable laws and regulations. Our ability to realize the expected returns on our capital investments is dependent on a number of factors, including, general economic conditions; changes to construction plans and specifications; delays in obtaining or inability to obtain necessary permits, licenses and approvals; disputes with contractors; disruptions to our business caused by construction; and other unanticipated circumstances or cost increases.

While we believe that the overall budgets for our planned capital expenditures are reasonable, these costs are estimates and the actual costs may be higher than expected. In addition, we can provide no assurance that these investments will be sufficient or that we will realize our expected returnsreplace key employees could have a material adverse effect on our capital investments, or any returns at all. A failure to realize our expected returns on capital investments could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We Moreover, there has from time to time been a shortage of skilled labor in our markets and the continued expansion of gaming near our facilities, including the expansion of Native American gaming and internet betting and gaming, may make it more difficult for us to attract qualified candidates. While we believe that we will continue to be able to attract and retain qualified employees, shortages of skilled labor will make it increasingly difficult and expensive to attract and retain the services of a satisfactory number of qualified employees, and we may incur impairments to goodwill, indefinite-lived intangible assets, or long-lived assets, whichhigher costs than expected as a result.

Work stoppages and other labor problems could negatively affectimpact our operating results

future profits.

As of December 31, 2017,2023, we had $1.7 billioncollective bargaining agreements covering approximately 24,000 employees. A lengthy strike or other work stoppages at any of goodwillour casino properties could have an adverse effect on our business and results of operations. New contracts, such as the ones we signed in 2023, increase our labor costs.
From time to time, we have also experienced attempts by labor organizations to organize certain of our non-union employees, which has achieved some past success. We cannot provide any assurance that we will not experience additional and successful union activity in the future. The impact of this union activity is undetermined and could negatively impact our results of operations.
We cannot assure you that we will be able to retain our performers and other intangible assets.entertainment offerings on acceptable terms or at all.
Historically, our performers have drawn customers to our properties and have been a significant source of our revenue. We perform annual impairment testing for goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets as of October 1, or on an interim basis if indicators of impairment exist. For properties with goodwill and/cannot assure you that we will be able to retain our performers or other intangible assets with indefinite lives, these testsshows on acceptable terms or at all. In addition, the third parties that we depend on for our properties’ entertainment offerings may become incapable or unwilling to provide their services at the level agreed upon or at all. Disruptions in the performance schedule can leave us without entertainment offerings, which could requirenegatively impact our business.
Risks Relating to Our Capital Structure
Our substantial indebtedness and the comparisonfact that a significant portion of the implied fair value of each reporting unit to carrying value. During the fourth quarter of 2017, we recorded an impairment charge totaling $38.0 million to reduce the carrying value of goodwill and/or trade names related to our Lake Charles, Lula and Vicksburg reporting units.

We must make various assumptions and estimates in performing our impairment testing. The implied fair value includes estimates of future cash flows that are based on reasonable and supportable assumptions which represent our best estimates of the cash flows expected to result from the use of the assets including their eventual disposition and by a market approach based upon valuation multiples for similar companies. Changes in estimates, increases in our cost of capital, reductions in transaction multiples, operating and capital expenditure assumptions or application of alternative assumptions and definitions, could produce significantly different results.

We also evaluate long-lived assets for impairment if indicators of impairment exist. In assessing the recoverability of the carrying value of such property, equipment and other long-lived assets, we make assumptions regarding future cash flows and residual values.

Future cash flow estimates are, by their nature, subjectiveis used to make interest payments and actual results may differ materially fromrent payments under our estimates. Ifdebt and lease agreements could adversely affect our ongoing estimates of future cash flows are not met, we may haveability to recordraise additional impairment charges in future accounting periods. Our estimates of cash flows are based on the current regulatory, social and economic climates, recent operating information and budgets, and current operating plans of the various properties where we conduct operations. These estimates could be negatively impacted bycapital to fund our operations, limit our ability to react to changes in federal, statethe economy or local regulations, economic downturns, internal operating decisions, or other events affecting various forms of travelour industry and access to our properties.

Risks Related to our Capital Structureprevent us from making debt service payments and Equity Ownership

We have significant indebtedness

rent payments.

As of December 31, 2017,2023 we and our restricted subsidiaries had $2.2$12.4 billion of totaloutstanding indebtedness, outstanding consistingin addition to leases with VICI and GLPI that require an annual rent payment of $956.8 million outstanding$1.3 billion in 2024 and are subject to annual escalation, including annual escalations based on the CPI. See Note 10 for a description of our obligations under our term loan facility (the “New Term Loan Facility” or “New Term Loan”), $875.0 million in aggregate principal amountleases with VICI and GLPI and Note 12 for details regarding our debt outstanding and related restrictive covenants. As a result, a significant portion of our cash flow is applied to make interest payments with respect to our outstanding 6.0% senior notes due 2025 (the “6% Senior Notes”)debt and $375.0 million in aggregate principal amount of outstanding 7.0% senior notes due 2023 (the “7% Senior Notes”). As of December 31, 2017, we had no borrowings outstandingpayments under our $300.0 million revolving credit facility (the “New Revolving Credit Facility” and, together with the New Term Loan, the “New Credit Facility”). This indebtednessleases. These financial obligations may have important negative consequences for us, including:

limiting our ability to satisfy our obligations;

increasing our vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry conditions;


limiting our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our businesses and the markets in which we operate;

placing us at a competitive disadvantage compared to competitors that have less debt;

increasing our vulnerability to, and limiting our ability to react to, changing market conditions, changes in our industry and economic downturns;

limiting our ability to obtain additional financing to fund working capital requirements, capital expenditures, debt service, acquisitions, general corporate or other obligations;

subjecting us to a number of restrictive covenants that, among other things, limit our ability to pay dividends and distributions, make acquisitions and dispositions, borrow additional funds, and make capital expenditures and other investments;

restricting our and our wholly-owned subsidiaries ability to make dividend payments and other payments;

limiting our ability to use operating cash flow in other areas of our business because we must dedicate a significant portion of these funds to make principal and/or interest payments on our outstanding debt;

debt and lease obligations;
limiting our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our businesses and the markets in which we operate;

placing us at a competitive disadvantage compared to competitors with debt and rent obligations that are less than ours;

increasing our vulnerability to, and limiting our ability to react to, changing market conditions, public health emergencies and related public health restrictions, changes in our industry and economic downturns;
limiting our ability to obtain additional financing to fund working capital requirements, capital expenditures, debt service, acquisitions, general corporate or other obligations;
subjecting us to a number of restrictive covenants that, among other things, require us to make capital expenditures and limit our ability to pay dividends and distributions, make acquisitions and dispositions, borrow additional funds and make other investments;
exposing us to interest rate risk due to the variable interest rate on borrowings under our New Credit Facility;

credit facilities; and

causing our failure to comply with the financial and restrictive covenants contained in our current or future indebtedness, which could cause a default under such indebtedness and which, if not cured or waived, could have a material adverse effect on us; and

affecting our ability to renew gaming and other licenses necessary to conduct our business.



Our ability to service our current and future levels of indebtedness will depend upon, among other things, our future financial and operating performance, which will be affected by prevailing economic conditions, including the interest rate environment and financial, business, regulatory and other factors, some of which are beyond our control.
There is no assurance that we will generate cash flow from operations or that future debt or equity financings will be available to us to enable us to pay our indebtedness or to fund other needs and we may be forced to take actions such as reducing or delaying business activities, acquisitions, investments or capital expenditures, selling assets, restructuring or refinancing debt, reducing or discontinuing dividends we may pay in the future, or seeking additional equity capital. These actions may not be effected on satisfactory terms, or at all. Any inability to generate sufficient cash flow or refinance our indebtedness on favorable terms could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. While we expect to refinance or replace our debt facilities when they mature, we cannot be sure that we will be able to obtain financing on commercially reasonable terms.
Despite our current indebtedness levels, we and our subsidiaries may still incur significant additional indebtedness. Incurring more indebtedness could increase the risks associated with our substantial indebtedness

indebtedness.

We and our subsidiaries may be able to incur substantial additional indebtedness, including additional secured indebtedness, and may enter into financing obligations similar to our leases with VICI and GLPI in the future. As of December 31, 2017,2023, we had $291.6 million$2.1 billion of borrowing capacity under our CEI Revolving Credit Facility, after consideration of $8.4$70 million in outstanding letters of credit underand $46 million committed for regulatory purposes, and $40 million of other reserves which is only available for certain permitted uses. Further, our New Credit Facility. Our existing debt agreements currently permit, and we expect that agreements governing debt that we incur in the future will permit, us to incur certain other additional secured and unsecured debt. Further, we may incur other liabilities that do not constitute indebtedness. The risks that we face based on our outstanding indebtedness may intensify if we incur additional indebtedness or financing obligations in the future.

We may not be able

Our variable rate indebtedness exposes us to generate sufficient cashinterest rate volatility, which could cause our debt service obligations to service allincrease significantly.
Borrowings under certain of our facilities are at variable rates of interest and expose us to interest rate volatility. As of December 31, 2023, $3.2 billion of aggregate principal amount of our debt had variable rates. If interest rates increase, our debt service obligations on certain of our variable rate indebtedness will increase even though the amount borrowed remains the same.
A significant portion of our casinos are located on leased property. If we default on one or more leases, the applicable lessors could terminate the affected leases and we could lose possession of the affected casino.
We currently lease certain parcels of land on which a significant portion of our properties are located. As a ground lessee, we have the right to use the leased land; however, we do not hold fee ownership of the underlying land. Accordingly, we have no interest in the leased land or improvements thereon at the expiration of the ground leases. If our use of the land underlying our casino properties is disrupted permanently or for a significant period of time, then the value of our assets could be impaired and our business and operations could be adversely affected. Our leases provide that they may be forcedterminated for a number of reasons, including failure to takepay rent, taxes or other actions to satisfypayment obligations or the breach of other covenants contained in the leases. In particular, our obligations under our indebtedness, which may not be successful

Our ability to make scheduledleases with VICI and GLPI require annual rent payments on or to refinance our debt obligations depends on our financial condition and operating performance,of $1.3 billion in 2024, which is subject to prevailing economicescalation annually, and competitive conditions and to certain financial, business, legislative, regulatory and other factors beyond our control. We cannot assure you that we will maintain a level of cash flows from operating activities sufficient to permitobligate us to paymake specified minimum capital expenditures with respect to the principal, premium, if any, and interest on our indebtedness.

leased properties. If our cash flowsbusiness and capital resources are insufficientproperties fail to fund our debt service obligations, we may be forced to reduce or delay investments and capital expenditures, or to sell assets, seek additional capital or restructure or refinance our indebtedness. These alternative measures may not be successful and may not permit us to meet our scheduled debt service obligations. If our operating results and available cash are insufficient to meet our debt service obligations, we could face substantial liquidity problems and might begenerate sufficient earnings, the payments required to dispose of material assets or operations to meetservice the rent obligations under our debt serviceleases with VICI and other obligations. We may not be able to consummate those dispositions or to obtain the proceeds that weGLPI could realize from them,materially and these proceeds may not be adequate to meet any debt service obligations then due. Additionally, the agreements governing our existing debt limit the use of the proceeds from any disposition; as a result, we may not be allowed, under these documents, to use proceeds from such dispositions to satisfy all current debt service obligations.


The agreements governing our debt impose significant operating and financial restrictions on us and our subsidiaries, which may prevent us from capitalizing on business opportunities

The agreements governing our existing debt impose significant operating and financial restrictions on us. These restrictionsadversely limit our ability among other things, to:

incur additional debt;

create liens or other encumbrances;

pay dividends or make other restricted payments;

agree to payment restrictions affecting our restricted subsidiaries;

prepay subordinated indebtedness;

make investments, loans or other guarantees;

sell or otherwise dispose of a portion of our assets; or

make acquisitions or merge or consolidate with another entity.

In addition, the credit agreement governing the New Credit Facility contains certain financial covenants, including minimum interest coverage ratio and maximum total leverage ratio covenants.

As a result of these covenants and restrictions, we are limitedreact to changes in how we conduct our business and make acquisitions and investments in our properties. If we may be unablewere to raise additional debtdefault on any one or equity financing to compete effectivelymore of these leases, the applicable lessors could terminate the affected leases and we could lose possession of the affected land and any improvements on the land, including the hotels and casinos. A termination of our ground leases or to take advantage of new business opportunities. The restrictions caused by such covenants could also place us at a competitive disadvantage to less leveraged competitors.

A failure to complyour leases with the covenants contained in the agreements governing our existingGLPI or future indebtednessVICI could result in an event ofa default which, if not cured or waived,under our debt agreements and could result in the acceleration of the indebtedness and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. IfFurther, in the event that any lessor of our indebtedness were to be accelerated,leased properties, including GLPI or VICI, encounters financial, operational, regulatory or other challenges, there can be no assurance that such lessor will be able to comply with its obligations under the applicable lease.

Certain of our assets would be sufficientleases, including our leases with VICI and GLPI, are “triple-net” leases. Accordingly, in addition to repay such indebtedness in full. Moreover,rent, we are required to pay, among other things, the following: (1) lease payments to the underlying ground lessor for properties that are subject to ground leases; (2) facility maintenance costs; (3) all insurance premiums for insurance with respect to the leased properties and the business conducted on the leased properties; (4) taxes levied on or with respect to the leased properties (other than taxes on the income of the lessor); and (5) all utilities and other services necessary or appropriate for the leased properties and the business conducted on the leased properties. We are responsible for incurring the costs described in the eventpreceding sentence notwithstanding the fact that many of the benefits received in exchange for such indebtednesscosts shall in part accrue to the lessor


as the owner of the associated facilities. In addition, we remain obligated for lease payments and other obligations under our leases with VICI and GLPI and other ground leases even if one or more of such leased facilities is accelerated, there can be no assuranceunprofitable or if we decide to withdraw from those locations. We could incur special charges relating to the closing of such facilities including lease termination costs, impairment charges and other special charges that would reduce our net income and could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Legal and Regulatory Risks
We are subject to extensive governmental regulation, taxation policies and licensing, and gaming authorities have significant control over our operations, which could have an adverse effect on our business.
Licensing Requirements. The ownership and operation of casino gaming, online betting and gaming, riverboat and horse racing facilities are subject to extensive federal, state and local regulation, and regulatory authorities at local, state and national levels have broad powers with respect to the licensing of gaming businesses. We currently hold all state and local licenses and related approvals necessary to conduct our present gaming operations, but we must periodically apply to renew many of our licenses and registrations. We cannot assure you that we will be able to refinance it on acceptable terms,obtain such renewals. Any failure to maintain or at all.

The market price ofrenew our common stock could fluctuate significantly

The U.S. securities markets in general have experienced significant price fluctuations in recent years. The market price of our common stock may be volatile and subject to wide fluctuations. In addition, the trading volume of our common stock may fluctuate and cause significant price variations to occur. Some of the factors that could cause fluctuations in,existing licenses, registrations, permits or approvals would have a material adverse effect on the stock price or trading volume ofus. In addition, we are required to provide information relating to our common stock include:

general market and economic conditions, including market conditionsoperations to various gaming regulatory agencies. A failure to provide accurate information could result in the hotelimposition of fines or other penalties by the relevant regulatory authority. Furthermore, if additional laws or regulations are adopted or existing laws or regulations are amended or interpreted differently, these regulations could impose additional restrictions or costs that could have a significant adverse effect on us.

Gaming authorities with jurisdiction over our operations may, in their discretion, require the holder of any securities issued by us to file applications, be investigated, and casino industries;

be found suitable to own our securities, and, if a holder is found unsuitable, we can be sanctioned, including the loss of approvals that are required for us to continue our gaming operations in the relevant jurisdictions, if such unsuitable person does not timely sell our securities. Our officers, directors and key employees are also subject to similar findings of unsuitability and the gaming authorities may require us to terminate the employment of any person who refuses to file appropriate applications. See “Item 1 - Gaming Licenses and Governmental Regulations” and Exhibit 99.1 for further description of the regulations to which we are subject. We may be required under applicable gaming laws and regulations to obtain approval of applicable gaming authorities to issue securities, incur debt and undertake other financing activities and our financing counterparties, including lenders, might be subject to various licensing and related approval procedures in the various jurisdictions in which we operate gaming facilities.

actualCompliance with Other Laws. We are also subject to a variety of other federal, state and local laws, rules, regulations and ordinances that apply to non-gaming businesses, including restrictions enacted in response to public health concerns such as pandemics, zoning, environmental, construction and land-use laws and regulations governing smoking and the serving of alcoholic beverages. Our operations have been and may again be adversely impacted by regulations enacted to limit the impact of public health concerns. In addition, legislation in various forms to ban indoor tobacco smoking has been enacted or expected variationsintroduced in operating results;

differences between actualmany states and local jurisdictions, including several of the jurisdictions in which we operate. If additional restrictions are enacted in our jurisdictions, we could experience a significant decrease in gaming revenue and operating results at our properties and, those expected by investorsparticularly if such restrictions are not applicable to all competitive facilities in that gaming market, our business could be materially adversely affected. The likelihood or outcome of similar legislation in other jurisdictions and analysts;

changes in recommendations by securities analysts;

operations and stock performance of competitors;

accounting charges, including charges relating to the impairment of goodwill;

significant acquisitions or strategic alliances by us or by competitors;

sales of our common stock or other securitiesreferendums in the future cannot be predicted, though any additional limitations on our operations would be expected to negatively impact our financial performance.

Regulations adopted by FINCEN require us to report currency transactions in excess of $10,000 occurring within a gaming day. U.S. Treasury Department regulations also require us to report certain suspicious activity, including sales byany transaction that exceeds $5,000, if we know, suspect or have reason to believe that the transaction involves funds from illegal activity or is designed to evade federal regulations or reporting requirements. Substantial penalties can be imposed if we fail to comply with these regulations. FINCEN has recently increased its focus on gaming companies.
We are required to report certain customer’s gambling winnings via Form W-2G to comply with current Internal Revenue Service regulations. Should these regulations change, we would expect to incur additional costs to comply with the revised reporting requirements.
Taxation and Fees. In addition, gaming companies are generally subject to significant revenue-based taxes and fees in addition to normal federal, state and local income taxes, and such taxes and fees are subject to increase at any time. We pay substantial taxes and fees with respect to our directorsoperations. Tax laws are dynamic and officerssubject to change as new laws are passed and new interpretations of the law are issued or significant investors;

recruitment or departure of key personnel;

conditions and trends inapplied, affecting the gaming industry. The large number of state and entertainment industries;

local governments with significant current or projected budget deficits makes it more likely that those governments that currently permit gaming will seek to fund such deficits with new or increased gaming taxes and/or property taxes and worsening economic conditions


changes incould intensify those efforts. Any material increase, or the estimateadoption of theadditional taxes or fees, could have a material adverse effect on our future size andfinancial results.

The growth of our markets;online betting and

gaming business will depend on expansion of online betting and gaming into new jurisdictions and our ability to obtain required licenses.

changesOur ability to achieve growth in reserves for professional liability claims.


We cannot assure youour online betting and gaming business will depend, in large part, upon expansion of online betting and gaming into new jurisdictions, the terms of regulations relating to online betting and gaming and our ability to obtain required licenses. Following the 2018 decision of the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn the federal ban on sports betting, a number of jurisdictions have legalized sports betting and online gaming and we expect that the stock price of our common stock will not fluctuate or decline significantlyadditional jurisdictions may do so in the future. Our ability to further expand our sports betting and online operations is dependent on the adoption of regulations permitting such activities. However, the expansion of betting and online gaming in new jurisdictions is dependent on a number of factors that are beyond our control and there can be no assurances of when, or if, such regulations will be adopted or the terms of such regulations, including restrictions, tax rates and license fees and availability of such licenses to casino owners exclusively or at all.

We may not be able to protect the intellectual property rights we own or may be prevented from using intellectual property necessary for our business.
The development of intellectual property is part of our overall business strategy, and we regard our intellectual property to be an important element of our success. We rely primarily on trade secret, trademark, domain name, copyright, and contract law to protect the intellectual property and proprietary technology we own. We also actively pursue business opportunities in the United States and in international jurisdictions involving the licensing of our trademarks to third parties. It is possible that third parties may copy or otherwise obtain and use our intellectual property or proprietary technology without authorization or otherwise infringe on our rights. For example, while we have a policy of entering into confidentiality, intellectual property invention assignment, and/or non-competition and non-solicitation agreements or restrictions with our employees, independent contractors, and business partners, such agreements may not provide adequate protection or may be breached, or our proprietary technology may otherwise become available to or be independently developed by our competitors. In addition, the stocklaws of some foreign countries may not protect proprietary rights or intellectual property to as great an extent as do the laws of the United States. Despite our efforts to protect our proprietary rights, the unauthorized use or reproduction of our trademarks could diminish the value of our trademarks and our market acceptance, competitive advantages, or goodwill, which could adversely affect our business.
Our technology contains software modules licensed to us by third-party authors under “open source” licenses. Use and distribution of open source software may entail greater risks than use of third-party commercial software, as open source licensors generally do not provide support, warranties, indemnification or other contractual protections regarding infringement claims or the quality of the code. In addition, the public availability of such software may make it easier for others to compromise our technology and, under certain open source licenses, we could be required to release the source code of our proprietary software to the public. This would allow our competitors to create similar offerings with lower development effort and time and ultimately could result in general can experience considerable pricea loss of our competitive advantages.
Third parties have alleged and volume fluctuationsmay in the future allege that we are infringing, misappropriating, or otherwise violating their intellectual property rights. Third parties may initiate litigation against us without warning or may send us letters or other communications that make allegations without initiating litigation. We may elect not to respond to these letters or other communications if we believe they are without merit, or we may attempt to resolve these disputes out of court by negotiating a license, but in either case it is possible that such disputes will ultimately result in litigation. Any such claims could interfere with our ability to use technology or intellectual property that is material to the operation of our business. Such claims may be unrelatedmade by competitors seeking to obtain a competitive advantage or by other parties, such as entities that purchase intellectual property assets for the purpose of bringing infringement claims. We also periodically employ individuals who were previously employed by our performance. If the market price of our common stock fluctuates significantly,competitors or potential competitors, and we may becometherefore be subject to claims that such employees have used or disclosed the subjectalleged trade secrets or other proprietary information of securities class actiontheir former employers.
We may have to rely on litigation which mayto enforce our intellectual property rights, protect our trade secrets, determine the validity and scope of the proprietary rights of others, or defend against claims of infringement or invalidity, including with respect to technology that we believe to be “open source.” Any such litigation could result in substantial costs and athe diversion of management’sresources and the attention and resources.

We have not historically paid dividends andof management. If unsuccessful, such litigation could result in the loss of important intellectual property rights, require us to pay substantial damages, subject us to injunctions that prevent us from using certain intellectual property, require us to make admissions that affect our reputation in the marketplace, or require us to enter into license agreements that may not pay dividendsbe available on favorable terms, re-engineer our technology or discontinue or delay the provision of our offerings. Finally, even if we prevail in any litigation, the future

remedy may not be commercially meaningful or fully compensate



us for the harm we suffer or the costs we incur. Any of the foregoing could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We do not currentlyrely on licenses to use the intellectual property rights of third parties which are incorporated into our products and services. Failure to renew or expand existing licenses may require us to modify, limit or discontinue certain offerings.
We rely on products, technologies and intellectual property that we license from third parties, for use in our business-to-business and business-to-consumers offerings. Certain of our offerings and services use intellectual property licensed from third parties and we expect that our future products will require the use of third-party intellectual property. The future success of our business may depend, in part, on our ability to pay dividends on its common stock. Any determination to pay dividendsobtain, retain and/or expand licenses for popular technologies and games in a competitive market. We cannot assure that third-party licenses that may be necessary or desirable for the futureoperation of our products, or support for such licensed products and technologies, will be available to us on commercially reasonable terms, if at all. If we are unable to renew and/or expand existing licenses or obtain new licenses, including as a result of reluctance of third parties to subject themselves to regulatory review that may be required to operate as our supplier, we may be required to discontinue or limit our use of the discretionproducts that include or incorporate the licensed intellectual property, which could adversely impact our business, results of operations and prospects.
We are or may become involved in legal proceedings that, if adversely adjudicated or settled, could impact our boardbusiness and financial condition.
From time to time, we are named in lawsuits or other legal proceedings relating to our respective businesses. Some of directorsthese matters involve commercial or contractual disputes, intellectual property claims, legal compliance, personal injury claims, and will depend upon among other factors,employment claims. As with all legal proceedings, no assurances can be given as to the outcome of these matters. Moreover, legal proceedings can be expensive and time consuming, and we may not be successful in defending or prosecuting these lawsuits, which could result in settlements or damages that could significantly impact our earnings, cash requirements,business, financial condition requirements to comply with the covenants under its debt instruments, legal considerations, and other factors that our boardresults of directors deems relevant. In addition, the agreements governing our indebtedness restrict its ability to pay dividends. If we do not pay dividends, then the return on an investment in its common stock will depend entirely upon any future appreciation in its stock price. There is no guarantee that our common stock will appreciate in value or maintain its value.

operations.

Item 1B.

Unresolved Staff Comments.

Item 1B.    Unresolved Staff Comments

None.

Item 2.

Properties.

Information relating

Item 1C.    Cybersecurity
Risk management and strategy
We maintain a cybersecurity team responsible for the development and implementation of a program intended to protect the confidentiality, integrity and availability of our critical systems and information. A component of our program is a cybersecurity Incident Response Plan (“IRP”) which has been built by the team utilizing current and historical industry knowledge and experience.
Key elements of our risk management procedures and processes include:
risk assessments to help mitigate material cybersecurity risks to our critical systems, information, services, and our broader enterprise IT environment;
a team comprised of IT security, IT infrastructure, and IT compliance personnel principally responsible for directing (1) our cybersecurity risk assessment processes, (2) our security processes, and (3) our response to cybersecurity incidents;
the use of external cybersecurity service providers, where appropriate, to assess, test or otherwise assist with aspects of our security processes;
formal information security training program for all team members as well as supplemental training on specific matters such as phishing and email security best practices;
a cybersecurity incident response plan and Security Operations Center (SOC) to respond to cybersecurity incidents;
attack and response simulations at the technical level and execute tabletop response exercises at the management level;
a third-party risk management process for service providers; and
cybersecurity insurance to cover certain expenses in the event of a cybersecurity incident.
The cybersecurity team reports to the locationChief Information Officer and general characteristicsin January 2024, we hired a Chief Information Security Officer (“CISO”) with significant experience in leading cybersecurity teams to assume the leadership of management’s responsibilities and governance discussed below.


We evaluate our cybersecurity risk management processes and continue to integrate our procedures into our overall enterprise risk management program, which shares common methodologies, reporting channels and governance processes that apply across the enterprise risk management program to other legal, compliance, strategic, operational, and financial risk areas.
Incidents are investigated by the cybersecurity team as they are identified and may be resolved or escalated based upon the specific details and severity of each incident. Incidents are evaluated throughout the investigation and remediation processes and incidents determined to be insignificant may be resolved by the cybersecurity team without further escalation at that time. Incidents determined to be more severe, such as those that may have compromised the confidentiality, integrity and availability of our propertiescritical systems and information, are escalated by the cybersecurity team to notify legal counsel, our Cybersecurity & Privacy Executive Steering Committee, our Board of Directors, or various regulators, as required.
Our cybersecurity team evaluates the risk profile of new third party service providers and maintains communication channels with key third party service providers to evaluate and respond to possible effects of incidents within a service provider’s organization. We rely on, and in certain cases require, our third parties to communicate such incidents timely.
As previously disclosed, on September 14, 2023, we announced that an unauthorized actor had gained access to our information technology network as a result of a social engineering attack on an outsourced IT support vendor used by the Company, and acquired a copy of, among other data, our loyalty program database (“Data Incident”). After detecting suspicious activity in our information technology network, we activated our IRP, which included containment measures, and commenced an investigation of the incident. We also notified law enforcement and state gaming regulators, engaged legal counsel and other third-party incident response and cybersecurity professionals, as well as forensic professionals.
We have received, and continue to pursue, reimbursements from insurance carriers for costs incurred as a result of the Data Incident. Based on our assessment, the incident has not had a material impact, and we do not believe the incident has materially affected or will materially affect us, including our operations, business strategy, results of operations, or financial condition.
As a result of the Data Incident, numerous putative class action lawsuits have been filed against us purporting to represent various classes of persons whose personal information was affected by the Data Incident. These class actions assert a variety of common law and statutory claims based on allegations that we failed to use reasonable security procedures and practices to safeguard customers’ personal information, and seek monetary and statutory damages, injunctive relief and other related relief. In addition to those putative class action lawsuits, individual claims have been filed or threatened against us as well.
We have also received inquiries from numerous state regulators related to the Data Incident. We are responding to these inquiries and cooperating fully with regulators. See Note 11 for further discussion.
We face certain ongoing risks from cybersecurity threats that, if realized, are reasonably likely to materially affect us, including our operations, business strategy, results of operations, or financial condition.
Governance
Our Board considers cybersecurity risk as critical to the enterprise and is providedresponsible for reviewing our cybersecurity risk profile, including management’s design, implementation and enforcement of our cybersecurity risk management program. The Board of Directors receives periodic updates from our Chief Information Officer (“CIO”) on cybersecurity risks and threats. Board members also receive periodic presentations on cybersecurity topics from our CIO, supported by our internal security staff, or external experts as part of the Board’s continuing education on topics that impact public companies.
The Board has determined that retaining responsibility for risks related to cybersecurity oversight is appropriate, given the complexity of the risks associated with cybersecurity and the attention required to appropriately review and monitor such risks. The full Board lends its collective experience and attention to discussing and overseeing potential risks identified by management and stays up to date on management’s risk-mitigation processes related to cybersecurity.
Our CIO supervises efforts to prevent, detect, mitigate, and remediate cybersecurity risks and incidents through various means, which include briefings from internal security personnel; threat intelligence and other information obtained from governmental, public or private sources, including external cybersecurity service providers; and alerts and reports produced by security tools deployed in Part I, the IT environment.
Our CIO is responsible for assessing and managing our material risks from cybersecurity threats. Our CIO has the primary responsibility for leading our overall cybersecurity risk management program and supervises both our internal cybersecurity personnel and our external cybersecurity service providers. Our CIO has significant global experience in managing and leading IT and cybersecurity teams. Members of the cybersecurity team hold various credentials and certificates with respect to information systems and they participate in continuing education.


Item I, Business, Properties.

2.    Properties

As of December 31, 2017,2023, the following are our facilitiesproperties, including properties that were divested during the year. All amounts are approximations.
PropertyLocationCasino
Space–
Sq. Ft.
Slot
Machines
Table
Games
Hotel
Rooms and
Suites
Las Vegas Segment
Owned-Domestic
The CromwellLas Vegas, NV40,600 350 30 190 
Flamingo Las VegasLas Vegas, NV72,300 840 60 3,450 
Horseshoe Las Vegas (a)
Las Vegas, NV61,100 770 50 2,060 
The LINQ Hotel & CasinoLas Vegas, NV39,100 620 40 2,240 
Paris Las Vegas (a)
Las Vegas, NV96,700 840 70 3,670 
Planet Hollywood Resort & CasinoLas Vegas, NV63,800 820 70 2,500 
Leased
Caesars Palace Las VegasLas Vegas, NV124,500 1,310 160 3,980 
Harrah’s Las VegasLas Vegas, NV88,800 1,020 60 2,540 
Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino (b)
Las Vegas, NV117,300 910 40 2,520 
Regional Segment
Owned-Domestic
Caesars Virginia (c)
Danville, VA40,000 820 30 — 
Circus Circus RenoReno, NV65,500 420 10 1,570 
Eldorado Gaming Scioto DownsColumbus, OH108,400 1,870 — — 
Eldorado Resort Casino RenoReno, NV70,000 780 40 810 
Grand Victoria CasinoElgin, IL42,400 750 50 — 
Harrah’s Columbus Nebraska (d)
Columbus, NE6,300 240 — — 
Harrah’s Hoosier Park Racing & CasinoAnderson, IN86,100 1,170 40 — 
Horseshoe BaltimoreBaltimore, MD133,300 1,600 170 — 
Horseshoe Black HawkBlack Hawk, CO26,900 610 30 400 
Horseshoe IndianapolisShelbyville, IN99,300 1,520 90 — 
Horseshoe Lake CharlesWestlake, LA63,000 800 50 250 
Isle of Capri Casino BoonvilleBoonville, MO28,000 780 20 140 
Isle of Capri Casino LulaLula, MS59,300 520 10 150 
Harrah’s Pompano BeachPompano Beach, FL71,700 1,260 40 — 
Lady Luck Casino - Black HawkBlack Hawk, CO11,200 290 — — 
Silver Legacy Resort CasinoReno, NV90,100 840 60 1,680 
Leased
Caesars Atlantic CityAtlantic City, NJ114,800 1,750 110 1,140 
Harrah’s Atlantic CityAtlantic City, NJ150,100 1,840 130 2,580 
Harrah’s Council BluffsCouncil Bluffs, IA27,600 690 10 250 
Harrah’s Gulf CoastBiloxi, MS37,200 640 30 500 
Harrah’s JolietJoliet, IL39,000 770 20 200 
Harrah’s Lake TahoeLake Tahoe, NV54,000 720 60 510 
Harrah’s LaughlinLaughlin, NV58,200 730 30 1,510 
Harrah’s MetropolisMetropolis, IL23,500 600 20 210 
Harrah’s New OrleansNew Orleans, LA111,100 1,010 110 450 
Harrah’s North Kansas CityN. Kansas City, MO57,500 920 60 390 
Harrah’s PhiladelphiaChester, PA88,700 1,580 50 — 
Harveys Lake TahoeLake Tahoe, NV48,900 580 30 740 
Horseshoe Bossier CityBossier City, LA34,000 960 60 600 
Horseshoe Council BluffsCouncil Bluffs, IA59,200 1,230 50 150 
Horseshoe HammondHammond, IN109,600 1,650 80 — 
Horseshoe St. LouisSt. Louis, MO75,000 980 30 490 


PropertyLocationCasino
Space–
Sq. Ft.
Slot
Machines
Table
Games
Hotel
Rooms and
Suites
Horseshoe TunicaTunica, MS63,000 930 90 510 
Isle Casino BettendorfBettendorf, IA41,200 870 20 510 
Isle Casino WaterlooWaterloo, IA39,200 820 20 190 
Trop Casino GreenvilleGreenville, MS22,800 450 — — 
Tropicana Atlantic CityAtlantic City, NJ121,100 1,630 100 2,360 
Tropicana Laughlin Hotel & CasinoLaughlin, NV43,200 640 10 1,490 
Managed and Branded Segment
Managed
Harrah’s Ak-ChinPhoenix, AZ65,200 1,150 30 530 
Harrah’s CherokeeCherokee, NC222,600 3,260 160 1,830 
Harrah’s Cherokee Valley RiverMurphy, NC66,000 970 50 300 
Harrah’s Resort Southern CaliforniaFunner, CA72,900 1,450 50 1,090 
Caesars WindsorCanada100,000 1,680 80 760 
Caesars Dubai (e)
United Arab Emirates— — — 580 
Branded
Caesars Southern IndianaElizabeth, IN74,400 980 90 500 
Harrah’s Northern CaliforniaIone, CA30,100 740 10 — 
____________________
(a)In December 2023, the Company rebranded a hotel tower as the Versailles tower and moved 750 rooms from Horseshoe Las Vegas to Paris Las Vegas.
(b)As of October 2, 2023, Caesars no longer operates the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino and all operations were assumed by the lessor.
(c)Temporary gaming facility opened on May 15, 2023. The construction of the permanent facility of Caesars Virginia is expected to be completed in late 2024.
(d)Temporary gaming facility opened on June 12, 2023. The construction of the permanent facility of Harrah’s Columbus Nebraska is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2024.
(e)On November 16, 2023, the Company exited the management agreement associated with Caesars Dubai and the property was renamed under new ownership.
Certain of our properties operate off-track betting locations, including Harrah’s Hoosier Park Racing & Casino, which operates Winner’s Circle Indianapolis and Winner’s Circle New Haven, and Horseshoe Indianapolis, which operates Winner’s Circle Clarksville. Other properties of ours include The LINQ Promenade, next to The LINQ Hotel & Casino (the “LINQ”) and the CAESARS FORUM conference center in our Las Vegas segment. The LINQ Promenade is an open-air dining, entertainment, and retail promenade located on propertythe east side of the Las Vegas Strip that we own or lease, as follows:

We lease approximately 30,000features the High Roller, a 550-foot observation wheel, and the Fly LINQ Zipline attraction. The CAESARS FORUM is a 550,000 square feet on the approximately 159,000 square foot parcel on which Eldorado Reno is located, in Reno, Nevada.

We own two parcels of property totaling 38,000conference center with 300,000 square feet acrossof flexible meeting space, two of the street from Eldorado Renolargest pillarless ballrooms in the world and two adjacent parcels totaling 18,687 square feet.

direct access to the LINQ. We own five acreswill also open our first non-gaming hotel experience in the first half of land in Reno, Nevada where2024 with the Silver Legacy is located.

Circus Reno leasesopening of Caesars Republic Scottsdale featuring more than 250 hotel rooms, approximately 36,00020,000 square feet on the approximately 10 acres on which Circus Reno is located, in Reno, Nevada.

of event space and hotel amenities including, pools, bars, lounges, and celebrity partnered restaurants.

We lease approximately nine acres of land in Shreveport, Louisiana on which Eldorado Shreveport is located.

Mountaineer is located on approximately 1,680 acres of land that we own in Chester, Hancock County, West Virginia. Included in the 1,680 acres of land is approximately 1,290 acres of land that are considered non‑operating real properties.

Scioto Downs is located on approximately 208 acres of land that we own in Columbus, Ohio.

Presque Isle Downs is located on 272 acres of land that we own in Summit Township, Erie County, Pennsylvania. In addition, we own two other parcels of land: a 213‑acre site in McKean Township, Pennsylvania and a 6‑acre site in Summit Township that formerly housed an off‑track wagering facility, each of which are considered non‑operating real properties.

We own approximately 10 acres of land in Black Hawk, Colorado for use in connection with our Black Hawk operations. The property leases an additional parcel of land adjoining the Isle-Black Hawk where the Lady Luck Hotel and parking lot are located. We own or lease approximately seven acres of land in Black Hawk, Colorado for use in connection with the Lady Luck-Black Hawk. The property leases an additional parcel of land near the Lady Luck-Black Hawk for parking as described above.

We own approximately 223 acres of land at Pompano.

We own approximately 2.7 acres and lease approximately 16.2 acres of land in Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana for use in connection with our Lake Charles operations.


We own approximately 24.6 acres of land in Bettendorf, Iowa used in connection with the operations of our Bettendorf property. We also operate under a long-term lease with the City of Bettendorf, the QC Waterfront Convention Center that is adjacent to our northernmost hotel tower. We also lease approximately eight acres of land on a month-to-month basis.

We own approximately 54 acres of land in Waterloo, Iowa used in connection with the operation of our Waterloo property.

We lease approximately 1,000 acres of land in Coahoma County, Mississippi and utilize approximately 50 acres in connection with the operations in Lula, Mississippi. We also own approximately 100 acres in Coahoma County, which may be utilized for future development.

We own approximately 60 acres in Vicksburg, Mississippi which are used in connection with the operations of our Vicksburg property.

We lease our 27 acre casino site in Boonville, Missouri.

We own approximately 22 acres in Cape Girardeau, Missouri which are used in connection with the operations of our Cape Girardeau property.

We own approximately 37 acres, including our riverboat casino in Caruthersville, Missouri.

We lease approximately 28 acres of land in connection with the operation of our Kansas City property.

We operate under a lease for 30 acres of land and building in which we operate our Nemacolin casino.

We lease our principal corporate offices in Reno, Nevada and Creve Coeur, Missouri.

We own additional property and have various property leases and options to either lease or purchase property that are not directly related to our existing operations and that may be utilized in the future in connection with expansion projects at our existing facilities or development of new projects.

Substantially all of our assets are pledged to secure our outstanding indebtedness under the senior notes and credit obligations.

Item 3.

Legal Proceedings.

Item 3.    Legal Proceedings

We are

For a party to various legal and administrative proceedings, which have arisen in the normal coursediscussion of our business. Estimated losses are accrued for these proceedings when the loss is probable and can be estimated. The current liability for the estimated losses associated with these proceedings is not material“Legal Proceedings,” refer to Note 11 to our consolidated financial condition and those estimated losses are not expected to have a material impactFinancial Statements located elsewhere in this Annual Report on our results of operations. In addition, we maintain what we believe is adequate insurance coverage to further mitigate the risks of such proceedings. However, such proceedings can be costly, time consuming and unpredictable and, therefore, no assurance can be given that the final outcome of such proceedings may not materially impact our consolidated financial condition or results of operations. Further, no assurance can be given that the amount of scope of existing insurance coverage will be sufficient to cover losses arising from such matter.

Form 10-K.

Item 4.

Mine Safety Disclosures.

Item 4.    Mine Safety Disclosures

Not applicable.



PART II

Item 5.

Market for Registrants’ Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.

Item 5.    Market for Registrants’ Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

Our Common Stock is quoted on the NASDAQ Global SelectStock Market under the symbol “ERI”“CZR”. On February 23, 2018, the NASDAQ Official Closing Price for our common stock was $33.55. As of February 23, 2018,15, 2024, there were approximately 568297 holders of record of our common stock.

We have not paid any cash dividends on our common stock. We intend to retain all of our earnings to finance the development of our business, and thus, do not anticipate paying cash dividends on our common stock for the foreseeable future. Payment of any cash dividends in the future will be at the discretion of our Board of Directors and will depend upon, among other things, our future earnings, operations and capital requirements, our general financial condition, and general business conditions. In addition,conditions and restrictions that may be in place under our senior secured credit facility and senior notes restrict, among other things, our ability to pay dividends. In addition, future financingborrowing arrangements may prohibit the payment of dividends under certain conditions. For further information relating to our and our subsidiaries’ dividend policies, see Part II, Item 7, Liquidity and Capital Resources, included in this report.

The following table sets forth the range of high and low closing sale prices for our common stock for two most recent fiscal years.

or existing lease agreements.

 

 

Stock Price

 

 

 

High

 

 

Low

 

Year ended December 31, 2017:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

First quarter

 

$

 

19.70

 

 

$

 

15.10

 

Second quarter

 

 

 

21.60

 

 

 

 

17.80

 

Third quarter

 

 

 

25.65

 

 

 

 

19.10

 

Fourth quarter

 

 

 

33.95

 

 

 

 

24.05

 

Year ended December 31, 2016:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

First quarter

 

$

 

11.60

 

 

$

 

9.17

 

Second quarter

 

 

 

15.27

 

 

 

 

11.16

 

Third quarter

 

 

 

15.32

 

 

 

 

13.59

 

Fourth quarter

 

 

 

16.95

 

 

 

 

10.80

 

Equity Compensation Plan Information

We maintain long-term incentive plans which allow for granting stock-based compensation awards for directors, employees, officers, and consultants or advisers who render services to the Company or its subsidiaries, based on Company Common Stock, including stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units (“RSUs”), performance stock units (“PSUs”), market-based performance stock units (“MSUs”), stock appreciation rights, and other stock-based awards or dividend equivalents. Forfeitures are recorded in the period in which they occur. See Note 15 for a description of our stock-based compensation plans.
The following table sets forth information as of December 31, 2017,2023, with respect to compensation plans under which equity securities that we have authorized for issuance.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Number of securities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

remaining available for

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

future issuance under

 

 

 

Number of securities to

 

 

Weighted average

 

 

equity compensation

 

 

 

be issued upon exercise

 

 

exercise price of

 

 

plans (excluding

 

 

 

of outstanding options,

 

 

outstanding options,

 

 

securities reflected

 

Plan Category

 

warrants and rights

 

 

warrants and rights

 

 

in column (a))

 

 

 

 

(a)

 

 

 

 

(b)

 

 

 

(c)

 

MTR Gaming Group, Inc. 2010 Long Term

   Incentive Plan

 

 

 

30,600

 

 

 

$

 

3.98

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. Second Amended and

   Restated 2009 Long Term Stock Incentive Plan

 

 

 

316,231

 

 

 

$

 

12.43

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Eldorado Resorts, Inc. 2015 Equity Incentive Plan

 

 

 

1,504,520

 

 

 

$

 

11.91

 

 

 

 

1,508,162

 

Plan Category
Number of securities to be issued
upon exercise of outstanding options,
warrants and rights (1)
Weighted average exercise price
of outstanding options,
warrants and rights (2)
Number of securities remaining
available for future issuance under
equity compensation plans (excluding
securities reflected in column (a))
(a)(b)(c)
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders3,122,668 $— 3,937,123 


___________________

The Eldorado Resorts, Inc. 2015 Equity Incentive Plan,

(1)Includes unvested RSUs, PSUs, and MSUs only, there were no outstanding options as of December 31, 2023.
(2)RSUs, PSUs, and MSUs do not have an exercise price.
Changes to the IsleAuthorized Shares
On June 17, 2021, following receipt of Capri Casinos, Inc. Second Amendedrequired shareholder approvals, the Company amended its Certificate of Incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares of common stock from 300 million to 500 million, and Restated 2009 Long Term Incentive Plan andauthorize the MTR Gaming Group, Inc. 2010 Long Term Incentive Plan were approved by stockholders. No future equity awards will be madeissuance of up to 150 million shares of preferred stock. As of December 31, 2023, no shares of preferred stock have been issued.
Share Repurchase Program
In November 2018, our Board authorized a common stock repurchase program of up to $150 million of stock (the “Share Repurchase Program”) pursuant to which we may, from time to time, repurchase shares of common stock on the Isleopen market (either with or without a 10b5-1 plan) or through privately negotiated transactions. The Share Repurchase Program has no time limit and may be suspended or discontinued at any time without notice. There is no minimum number of Capri Casinos, Inc. Second Amended and Restated 2009 Long Term Incentive Plan and the MTR Gaming Group, Inc. 2010 Long Term Incentive Plan. However, outstanding awards grantedshares of common stock that we are required to repurchase under the Share Repurchase Program. 
As of December 31, 2023, we have acquired plans will continue unaffected.

223,823 shares of common stock under this program since 2018 at an aggregate value of $9 million and an average of $40.80 per share. No shares were repurchased during the years ended December 31, 2023 or 2022.

Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities
None.


Stock Performance Graph

The following graph demonstrates a comparison ofdepicted below compares the cumulative total returns ofstockholder return on our common stock with the Company,cumulative total return on the NASDAQ MarketStandard & Poor's 500 Stock Index (which is considered to be a broad index)(“S&P 500”) and the Dow Jones USU.S. Gambling Total Stock Market Index (“Dow Jones U.S. Gambling”) for the period since our common stock began tradingbeginning on September 22, 2014.December 31, 2018 and ending on December 31, 2023. NASDAQ OMX furnished the data. The followingperformance graph assumes a $100 investedinvestment in our stock and each of the above groupstwo indices, respectively, on December 31, 2018, and the reinvestment ofthat all dividends if applicable.

Comparison of Cumulative Total Return

Assumes Initial Investment of $100

December 2017

Past stockwere reinvested. Stock price performance, presented for the period from December 31, 2018 to December 31, 2023, is not necessarily indicative of future results.

3886
The performance graph should not be deemed filed or incorporated by reference into any other of our filings under the Securities Act of 1933 or the Exchange Act, of 1934, unless we specifically incorporate the performance graph by reference therein.

Item 6.

Selected Financial Data.

The following table sets forth selected consolidated financial data of the Company as of and for each of the five years ended December 31, 2017. This information should be read in conjunction with “

Item 7 –6.    [Reserved]
Not used.
Item 7.    Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
The following discussion should be read in conjunction with, and is qualified in its entirety by, the audited consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto containedand other financial information included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Operating results for the periods presented below are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for future years.

The presentation of information herein for periods prior to our acquisitions of the Reno properties, MTR and Isle are not fully comparable because the results of operations for Isle, Circus Reno and MTR Gaming are not included for periods prior to such acquisitions and the results of operations of the Silver Legacy Joint Venture were not consolidated prior to our acquisition of the Reno properties (see Note 1 below).


SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA

(dollars in thousands)

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

 

2017

 

 

 

2016

 

 

 

2015

 

 

 

2014

 

 

 

2013

 

 

Consolidated Statement of Operations Data:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net operating revenues

 

$

 

1,473,504

 

 

 

$

 

892,896

 

 

 

$

 

719,784

 

 

 

$

 

361,823

 

 

 

$

 

247,186

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income

 

 

 

94,869

 

 

 

 

 

89,118

 

 

 

 

 

72,516

 

 

 

 

 

17,555

 

 

 

 

 

22,582

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net (loss) income before income taxes (1)

 

 

 

(43,330

)

 

 

 

 

38,046

 

 

 

 

 

44,603

 

 

 

 

 

(12,554

)

 

 

 

 

18,897

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

 

 

 

73,940

 

 

 

 

 

24,802

 

 

 

 

 

114,183

 

 

 

 

 

(14,322

)

 

 

 

 

18,897

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Less: Net loss attributable to non-controlling interest (2)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(103

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income (loss) attributable to the Company (2)

 

$

 

73,940

 

 

 

$

 

24,802

 

 

 

$

 

114,183

 

 

 

$

 

(14,425

)

 

 

$

 

18,897

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic net income (loss) per common share

 

$

 

1.10

 

 

 

$

 

0.53

 

 

 

$

 

2.45

 

 

 

$

 

(0.48

)

 

 

$

 

0.81

 

 

Diluted net income (loss) per common share

 

$

 

1.09

 

 

 

$

 

0.52

 

 

 

$

 

2.43

 

 

 

$

 

(0.48

)

 

 

$

 

0.81

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

At December 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

 

2014

 

 

2013

 

Consolidated Balance Sheet Data:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

 

134,596

 

 

$

 

61,029

 

 

$

 

78,278

 

 

$

 

87,604

 

 

$

 

29,813

 

Total assets

 

 

 

3,546,472

 

 

 

 

1,294,044

 

 

 

 

1,325,008

 

 

 

 

1,171,559

 

 

 

 

270,182

 

Total debt (3)

 

 

 

2,190,193

 

 

 

 

800,426

 

 

 

 

866,237

 

 

 

 

775,059

 

 

 

 

170,760

 

Stockholders’ equity

 

 

 

945,126

 

 

 

 

298,451

 

 

 

 

270,667

 

 

 

 

151,622

 

 

 

 

75,575

 

Footnotes to Selected Consolidated Financial Data:

(1)

Prior to September 19, 2014, we were taxed as a partnership under the Internal Revenue Code pursuant to which income taxes were primarily the responsibility of the partners. On September 18, 2014, as part of the merger with MTR, we became a C corporation subject to the federal and state corporate‑level income taxes at prevailing corporate tax rates. While taxed as a partnership, we were not subject to federal income tax liability but made distributions to our equity holders to cover such liabilities.

(2)

Prior to our acquisition of the Reno properties, non‑controlling interest represented the minority partners’ share of our subsidiary’s 50% joint venture interest in the Silver Legacy. The non‑controlling interest was owned by certain of our affiliates and was approximately 4%. The non‑controlling interest in the Silver Legacy was 1.9%. We acquired the remaining 50% joint venture interest pursuant to our acquisition of the Reno properties and exercised our right to acquire such non‑controlling interest.

(3)

Total debt, including current portion, is reported net of unamortized discounts and premiums, and includes capital leases of $0.9 million, $0.5 million, $0.8 million and $0.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016, 2015 and 2013, respectively. There were no capital leases in 2014.


Item 7.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

You should read the following discussion together with the financial statements, including the related notes and the other financial information, contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Eldorado Resorts,Caesars Entertainment, Inc., a NevadaDelaware corporation, isand its subsidiaries, may be referred to as the “Company,” “ERI,“CEI,” “Caesars,” “we,” “our,” “us,” or the “Registrant,“Registrant.”

We also refer to (i) our Consolidated Financial Statements as our “Financial Statements,” (ii) our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) as our “Statements of Operations,” (iii) our Consolidated Balance Sheets as our “Balance Sheets,” and together(iv) our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows as our “Statements of Cash Flows.” References to numbered “Notes” refer to Notes to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8.


The statements in this discussion regarding our expectations of our future performance, liquidity and capital resources, and other non-historical statements are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties. Our actual results may differ materially from those contained in or implied by any forward-looking statements. See “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information.”
Objective
This Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”) is intended to be a narrative explanation of the financial statements and other statistical data that should be read in conjunction with its subsidiaries may alsothe accompanying financial statements to enhance an investor’s understanding of our financial condition, changes in financial condition and results of operations. Our objectives are: (i) to provide a narrative explanation of our financial statements that will enable investors to see the Company through the eyes of management; (ii) to enhance the overall financial disclosure and provide the context within which financial information should be referredanalyzed; and (iii) to as “we,” “us” or “our.”

provide information about the quality of, and potential variability of, our earnings and cash flows so that investors can ascertain the likelihood of whether past performance is indicative of future performance.

Overview

We are a geographically diversified gaming and hospitality company owningthat was founded in 1973 by the Carano family with the opening of the Eldorado Hotel Casino in Reno, Nevada. Beginning in 2005, we grew through a series of acquisitions, including the acquisition of MTR Gaming Group, Inc. in 2014, Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. in 2017, Tropicana Entertainment, Inc. in 2018, Caesars Entertainment Corporation in 2020, and operating 20 gaming facilitiesWilliam Hill PLC (the “William Hill Acquisition”) on April 22, 2021. Our ticker symbol on the NASDAQ Stock Market is “CZR.”
We currently own, lease or manage an aggregate of 52 domestic properties in 10 states. Our properties, which are located in Ohio, Louisiana, Nevada, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Colorado, Florida, Iowa, Mississippi and Missouri, feature18 states with approximately 21,00051,300 slot machines, and video lottery terminals (“VLTs”),and e-tables, approximately 6002,700 table games and over 7,000approximately 44,700 hotel rooms.rooms as of December 31, 2023. In addition, we have other properties in North America that are authorized to use the brands and marks of Caesars Entertainment, Inc. Our primary source of revenue is generated by our casino properties’ gaming operations, which includes our retail and online sports betting and online gaming, and we utilize our hotels, restaurants, bars, entertainment, racing, retail shops and other services to attract customers to our properties.

As of December 31, 2023, we owned 22 of our casinos and leased 24 casinos in the U.S. We lease 18 casinos from VICI Properties L.P., a Delaware limited partnership (“VICI”) pursuant to a regional lease, a Las Vegas lease and a Joliet lease (collectively, “VICI Leases”). We also lease six casinos from GLP Capital, L.P., the operating partnership of Gaming and Leisure Properties, Inc. (“GLPI”), pursuant to a Master Lease (as amended, the “GLPI Master Lease”) and a Lumière lease (together with the GLPI Master Lease, the “GLPI Leases”). Additionally, we leased the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino (“Rio”) from a separate third party until October 2, 2023, at which time operations were founded in 1973assumed by the Carano Family withlessor. See descriptions below under the opening“GLPI Leases” and “VICI Leases.”


We operate and conduct retail and online sports wagering across 31 jurisdictions in Reno, Nevada.North America, 25 of which offer online sports betting. Additionally, we operate iGaming in five jurisdictions in North America. The map below illustrates Caesars Digital’s presence as of December 31, 2023:
CD map - Q4 23 (12-12-23).jpg
In 1993,2022, we partnered with MGM ResortsNYRABets LLC, the official online wagering platform of the New York Racing Association, Inc., and have launched the Caesars Racebook app within 20 states as of December 31, 2023. Caesars Racebook also went live in Illinois in January 2024. The Caesars Racebook app provides access for pari-mutuel wagering at over 300 racetracks around the world as well as livestreaming of races. Wagers placed can earn credits towards our Caesars Rewards loyalty program or points which can be redeemed for free wagering credits.
We are also in the process of continuing the expansion of our Caesars Digital footprint into other states in the near term with our Caesars Sportsbook, Caesars Racebook and iGaming mobile apps as jurisdictions legalize or provide necessary approvals. No customers under 21 years old are allowed to wager on any of our Caesars Sportsbook, Caesars Racebook and iGaming mobile apps.


We periodically divest of assets in order to raise capital or as a result of a determination that the assets are not core to our business, or due to regulatory requirements. The following is a summary of recently completed divestitures as of December 31, 2023:
SegmentPropertyDate SoldSales Price
RegionalMontBleu Casino Resort & Spa (“MontBleu”)April 6, 2021$15 million
RegionalTropicana Evansville (“Evansville”)June 3, 2021$480 million
RegionalBelle of Baton Rouge Casino & Hotel (“Baton Rouge”)May 5, 2022*
Discontinued operations:
RegionalHarrah’s Louisiana DownsNovember 1, 2021
$22 million (a)
RegionalCaesars Southern IndianaSeptember 3, 2021$250 million
N/ACaesars UK GroupJuly 16, 2021*
N/AWilliam Hill InternationalJuly 1, 2022£2.0 billion
____________________
*Not meaningful.
(a)The proceeds of this sale were split between the Company and VICI.
In addition to the divestitures above, the operations of Rio were assumed by the lessor on October 2, 2023, and we exited our management agreement with Caesars Dubai on November 16, 2023. See Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data — Note 4 for further discussion on these key transactions and any applicable gain (loss) or impairment charges recorded.
Merger and Acquisitions Related Activities
William Hill Acquisition
On April 22, 2021, we completed the William Hill Acquisition for cash consideration of approximately £2.9 billion, or approximately $3.9 billion, based on the Silver Legacy Resort Casino,GBP to USD exchange rate on the first mega-themed resortclosing date.
We acquired William Hill PLC and its U.S. subsidiary, William Hill U.S. Holdco (“William Hill US” and together with William Hill PLC, “William Hill”) to better position the Company to address the extensive usage of digital platforms, continued legalization in Reno. In 2005, we acquired our first property outside of Reno when we acquired a casino in Shreveport, Louisiana, now known as Eldorado Shreveport. In September 2014, we merged with MTR Gaming Group, Inc.additional states and acquired its three gamingjurisdictions, and racing facilities in Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. The following year, in November 2015, we acquired Circus Circus Reno andgrowing bettor demand, which are driving the 50% membership interestmarket for online sports betting platforms in the Silver LegacyU.S. In addition, we continue to leverage the World Series of Poker (“WSOP”) brand and license the WSOP trademarks for a variety of products and services across these digital platforms. At the time that the William Hill Acquisition was owned by MGM Resorts International.

consummated, our intent was to divest William Hill International and as such its results were presented in discontinued operations.

On May 1, 2017,September 8, 2021, we completed our most recent – and largest - acquisitionentered into an agreement to date whensell William Hill International to 888 Holdings Plc for approximately £2.2 billion. On April 7, 2022, we acquired Isleamended the agreement to sell William Hill International to 888 Holdings Plc for a revised enterprise value of Capri Casinos, Inc. (“Isle” or “Isle of Capri”), adding another 13 gaming properties to our portfolio.

Throughoutapproximately £2.0 billion. During the year ended December 31, 2017,2022, we owned and operated the following properties:

Eldorado Resort Casino Reno (Eldorado Reno)A 814-room hotel, casino and entertainment facility connected via an enclosed skywalkrecorded impairments to Silver Legacy and Circus Reno located in downtown Reno, Nevada that includes 1,125 slot machines and 46 table games;

Silver Legacy Resort Casino (Silver Legacy)A 1,711-room themed hotel and casino connected via an enclosed skywalk to Eldorado Reno and Circus Reno that includes 1,187 slot machines, 63 table games and a 13 table poker room;

Circus Circus Reno (Circus Reno)A 1,571-room hotel-casino and entertainment complex connected via an enclosed skywalk to Eldorado Reno and Silver Legacy that includes 712 slot machines and 24 table games;

Eldorado Resort Casino Shreveport (Eldorado Shreveport)A 403-room, all suite art deco-style hotel and tri-level riverboat dockside casino situatedassets held for sale of $503 million within discontinued operations based on the Red River in Shreveport, Louisiana that includes 1,397 slot machines, 52 table gamesrevised and an eight table poker room;

Mountaineer Casino, Racetrack & Resort (Mountaineer)A 357-room hotel, casino, entertainment and live thoroughbred horse racing facility located on the Ohio River at the northern tip of West Virginias northwestern panhandle that includes 1,508 slot machines, 36 table games, including a 10 table poker room;

Presque Isle Downs & Casino (Presque Isle Downs)A casino and live thoroughbred horse racing facility with 1,593 slot machines, 33 table games and a seven table poker room located in Erie, Pennsylvania; and

Eldorado Gaming Scioto Downs (Scioto Downs)A modern racino offering 2,245 VLTs, harness racing and a 118-room third party hotel connected to Scioto Downs located 15 minutes from downtown Columbus, Ohio.

In addition, on Mayfinal sales price. On July 1, 2017, we consummated our acquisition of Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. and acquired the following properties:

Isle Casino HotelBlack Hawk (“Isle Black Hawk”)A land-based casino on an approximately 10-acre site in Black Hawk, Colorado that includes 1,026 slot machines, 27 table games, a nine table poker room and a 238-room hotel;

Lady Luck CasinoBlack Hawk (“Lady Luck Black Hawk”)A land-based casino across the intersection from Isle Casino Hotel in Black Hawk, Colorado, that includes 452 slot machines, 10 table games, five poker tables and a 164-room hotel with a parking structure connecting Isle Casino Hotel-Black Hawk and Lady Luck Casino-Black Hawk;


Isle Casino Racing Pompano Park (“Pompano”)A casino and harness racing track on an approximately 223-acre owned site in Pompano Beach, Florida, that includes 1,455 slot machines and a 45 table poker room;

Isle Casino Bettendorf (“Bettendorf”)A land-based single-level casino located off Interstate 74 in Bettendorf, Iowa that includes 978 slot machines and 20 table games with two hotel towers with 509 hotel rooms;

Isle Casino Waterloo (“Waterloo”)A single-level land-based casino in Waterloo, Iowa that includes 940 slot machines, 25 table games, and a 194-room hotel;

Isle of Capri Casino Hotel Lake Charles (“Lake Charles”)A gaming vessel on an approximately 19 acre site in Lake Charles, Louisiana, with 1,173 slot machines, 47 table games, including 13 poker tables and two hotels offering 493 rooms;

Isle of Capri Casino Lula (“Lula”)Two dockside casinos in Lula, Mississippi with 875 slot machines and 20 table games, two on-site hotels with a total of 486 rooms and a 28-space RV Park;

Lady Luck Casino Vicksburg (“Vicksburg”)A dockside casino in Vicksburg, Mississippi that includes 616 slot machines, nine table games and a hotel with a total of 89 rooms;

Isle of Capri Casino Boonville (“Boonville”)A single-level dockside casino in Boonville, Missouri that includes 893 slot machines, 20 table games and a 140-room hotel;

Isle Casino Cape Girardeau (“Cape Girardeau”)A dockside casino and pavilion and entertainment center in Cape Girardeau, Missouri that includes 872 slot machines, and 24 table games, including four poker tables;

Lady Luck Casino Caruthersville (“Caruthersville”)—A riverboat casino located along the Mississippi River in Caruthersville, Missouri that includes 516 slot machines and nine table games;

Isle of Capri Casino Kansas City (“Kansas City”)A dockside casino located close to downtown Kansas City, Missouri offering 966 slot machines and 18 table games; and

Lady Luck Casino Nemacolin (“Nemacolin”)A casino property located on the 2,000-acre Nemacolin Woodlands Resort in Western Pennsylvania that includes 600 slot machines and 28 table games.

In addition, Scioto Downs, through its subsidiary RacelineBet, Inc., also operates Racelinebet.com, a national account wagering service that offers online and telephone wagering on horse races as a marketing affiliate of TwinSpires.com, an affiliate of Churchill Downs, Inc.

Acquisition of Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.

On May 1, 2017,2022, we completed the sale of William Hill International to 888 Holdings Plc.

We recognized acquisition-related transaction costs of $21 million and $68 million for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively, excluding additional transaction cost associated with sale of William Hill International. These costs were associated with legal, professional services and certain severance and retention costs and were primarily recorded in Transaction and other costs on our acquisitionStatements of IsleOperations.
Consolidation of Capri Casinos, Inc. pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of September 19, 2016 with Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.Horseshoe Baltimore
On August 26, 2021, we increased our ownership interest in CBAC Borrower, LLC (“Horseshoe Baltimore”), a Delaware corporation, Eagle I Acquisition Corp., a Delaware corporation and our wholly-owned subsidiary, and Eagle II Acquisition Company LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and our wholly-owned subsidiary.property which we also managed, to approximately 75.8% for cash consideration of $55 million. As a result of the acquisitionincrease in our ownership interest, our previously held investment was remeasured and we recognized a gain of Isle, Isle became$40 million for the year ended December 31, 2021. Subsequent to the change in ownership, we determined that we have a wholly-owned subsidiarycontrolling financial interest and began to consolidate the operations of ours and, at the effective time ofHorseshoe Baltimore.
Additionally, on July 10, 2023, we completed the acquisition of Isle,the remaining 24.2% equity ownership in Horseshoe Baltimore, utilizing cash on hand, for a total of $66 million.


Investments and Partnerships
We have investments in unconsolidated affiliates accounted for under the equity method which are recorded in Investment in and advances to unconsolidated affiliates on the Balance Sheets. Certain significant investments as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 are discussed below.
Pompano Joint Venture
In April 2018, we entered into a joint venture with Cordish Companies (“Cordish”) to plan and develop a mixed-use entertainment and hospitality destination expected to be located on unused land adjacent to the casino and racetrack at our Pompano property. As the managing member, Cordish will operate the business and manage the development, construction, financing, marketing, leasing, maintenance and day-to-day operation of the various phases of the project. Additionally, Cordish is responsible for the development of the master plan for the project with our input and will submit it for our review and approval. In October 2023 and June 2021, the joint venture issued capital calls and we contributed $3 million each, outstanding sharerespectively, for a total of Isle common stock converted into the right to receive $23.00$7 million in cash or 1.638 shares of our common stock, at the electioncontributions since inception of the applicable Isle shareholder and subjectjoint venture. On February 12, 2021, we contributed 186 acres to proration such that the outstanding sharesjoint venture with a fair value of Isle common stock were exchanged for aggregate consideration comprised$61 million. Total contributions of 58% cash, or $552.0approximately 209 acres of land have been made with a fair value of approximately $69 million, and 42% of our common stock,we have no further obligation to contribute additional real estate or 28.5 million newly issued shares of our common stock. The total purchase consideration was $1.93 billion.

In connection with our acquisition of Isle, we completed a debt financing transaction comprised of: (a) a senior secured credit facility in an aggregate principal amount of $1.75 billion with a (i) term loan facility of $1.45 billion and (ii) revolving credit facility of $300.0 million and (b) $375.0 million of senior unsecured notes. The proceeds of such borrowings were used to paycash. During the cash portion ofyear ended December 31, 2023, the consideration payable in the acquisition of Isle, refinance all of Isle’s existing credit facilities, redeem or otherwise repurchase all of Isle’s senior and senior subordinated notes, refinance our existing credit facility and pay transaction fees and expensesCompany recorded income related to the foregoing.

investment of $64 million, primarily due to the joint venture’s gain on the sale of land. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, our investment in the joint venture was $147 million and $80 million, respectively, and is recorded in Investment in and advances to unconsolidated affiliates on the Balance Sheets.

While we hold a 50% variable interest in the joint venture, we are not the primary beneficiary; as such the investment in the joint venture is accounted for using the equity method. We participate evenly with Cordish in the profits and losses of the joint venture, which are included in Transaction and other costs on our Statements of Operations.

Reportable Segments

NeoGames
The executive decision makeracquired net assets of William Hill included an investment in NeoGames S.A. (“NeoGames”), a global leader of iLottery solutions and services to national and state-regulated lotteries, and other investments. On September 16, 2021, we sold a portion of our companyshares of NeoGames common stock for $136 million which decreased our ownership interest from 24.5% to approximately 8.4%. Additionally, on March 14, 2022 we sold our remaining 2 million shares at fair value for $26 million. During the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, we recorded losses related to the investment in NeoGames of $34 million and $54 million, respectively, which is included within Other income (loss) on the Statements of Operations.
Reportable Segments
Segment results in this MD&A are presented consistent with the way our management reviews operating results, assesses performance and makes decisions on a “significant market” basis. Our managementManagement views each of its propertiesthe Company’s casinos as an operating segment. Operating segments are aggregated based on their similar economic characteristics, types of customers, types of services and products provided, the regulatory environments in which they operate, and their management and reporting structure. Prior to our acquisition of Isle, ourOur principal operating activities occurred in three geographic regions: Nevada, Louisiana and parts of the eastern United States. We aggregated our operations into three reportable segments based on the similar characteristics of the operating segments within the regions in which they operated as follows:

Segment

Property

State

Nevada

Eldorado Reno

Nevada

Silver Legacy

Nevada

Circus Reno

Nevada

Louisiana

Eldorado Shreveport

Louisiana

Eastern

Presque Isle Downs

Pennsylvania

Scioto Downs

Ohio

Mountaineer

West Virginia

Following our acquisition of Isle, our principal operating activities expanded and now occur in four geographic regionsreportable segments: (1) Las Vegas, (2) Regional, (3) Caesars Digital, and reportable segments based on the similar characteristics(4) Managed and Branded, in addition to Corporate and Other. See Item 2. “Properties” for listing of the operating segments within the regions in which they operate. The following table summarizes our current segments:

properties by segment.

Segment

Property

State

West

Eldorado Reno

Nevada

Silver Legacy

Nevada

Circus Reno

Nevada

Isle Black Hawk

Colorado

Lady Luck Black Hawk

Colorado

Midwest

Waterloo

Iowa

Bettendorf

Iowa

Boonville

Missouri

Cape Girardeau

Missouri

Caruthersville

Missouri

Kansas City

Missouri

South

Pompano

Florida

Eldorado Shreveport

Louisiana

Lake Charles

Louisiana

Lula

Mississippi

Vicksburg

Mississippi

East

Presque Isle Downs

Pennsylvania

Nemacolin

Pennsylvania

Scioto Downs

Ohio

Mountaineer

West Virginia

Presentation of Financial Information

The financial information included in this Item 7 for the periods prior to our acquisition of Isle are those of ERI and its subsidiaries. The presentation of information herein for periods prior to our acquisition of Isle and after our acquisition of Isle areWilliam Hill on April 22, 2021, and of the increase in our ownership percentage and subsequent consolidation of Horseshoe Baltimore on August 26, 2021, is not fully comparable becauseto the results of operations for Isle are not included for periods prior to our acquisitionthe acquisitions. In addition, the presentation of Isle. Summary financial results of Isle for the three and nine months ended January 22, 2017 are included in Isle’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (‘‘SEC’’). In conjunction with our acquisition of Isle, Isle is no longer required to file quarterly and annual reports with the SEC, and terminated its registration on May 11, 2017.


The presentation of information herein for the periods after the Company’s divestiture of various properties, described above, is not fully comparable to the periods prior to and after our acquisitionthe date of the Reno properties are not fully comparable because the results of operations for Circus Reno are not included for periods prior to our acquisition of the Reno properties and the results of operations of the Silver Legacy Joint Venture were not consolidated prior to our acquisition of the Reno properties.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“divestiture.

This MD&A”)&A is intended to provide information to assist in better understanding and evaluating our financial condition and results of operations. Our historical operating results may not be indicative of our future results of operations because of thesethe factors described in the preceding paragraph and the changing competitive landscape in each of our markets, including changes in market and societal trends, increased competition, as well as by factors or trends discussed elsewhere herein. We recommend that you read this MD&A in conjunctiontogether with our audited consolidated financial statements and the notes to those statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.



Key Performance Metrics

Our primary source of revenue is generated by our gaming operations, butwhich includes our retail and online sports betting and online gaming. Additionally, we useutilize our hotels, restaurants, bars, entertainment venues, retail shops, racing and other services to attract customers to our properties. Our operating results are highly dependent on the volume and quality of customers visiting and staying at, or visiting, our properties. properties and using our sports betting, horse racing and iGaming applications.
Key performance metrics include volume indicators such as table games drop and slotor handle, which refer to amounts wagered by our customers. The amount of volume we retain, which is not fully controllable by us, is recognized as casino revenues and is referred to as our win or hold. Slot win percentage is typically in the range of approximately 9% to 11% of slot handle for both the Las Vegas and Regional segments. Table game hold percentage is typically in the range of approximately 16% to 23% of table game drop in both the Las Vegas and Regional segments. Sports betting hold is typically in the range of 5% to 10% and iGaming hold typically ranges from 3% to 5%. In addition, hotel occupancy, and price per room designated bywhich is the average daily rate (“ADR”) arepercentage of available hotel rooms occupied during a period, is a key indicatorsindicator for our hotel business. Our calculationbusiness in the Las Vegas segment. See “Results of ADR consists of the average price of occupied rooms per day including the impact of resort feesOperations” section below. Complimentary and complimentary rooms. Complimentary room rates are determined based on an analysis of retail or cash rates for each customer segment and each type of room product to estimate complimentary rates which are consistent with retail rates. Complimentary rates are reviewed at least annually and on an interim basis if there are significant changes in market conditions. Complimentarydiscounted rooms are treated as occupied rooms in our calculation of hotel occupancy.

The key metrics we utilize to measure our profitability and performance are Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin.

Significant Factors Impacting Financial Results

The following summary highlights the significant factors impacting our financial results during the years ended December 31, 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 2015.

2021.
Acquisitions and Transaction Costs

IsleWilliam Hill Acquisition Our results On April 22, 2021, we consummated the acquisition of continuingthe entire issued and to be issued share capital (other than shares owned by the Company or held in treasury) of William Hill PLC, in an all-cash transaction of £2.9 billion, or approximately $3.9 billion. We recognized acquisition-related transaction costs of $21 million and $68 million for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively, excluding additional transaction costs associated with sale of William Hill International.

Consolidation of Horseshoe Baltimore – On August 26, 2021, we increased our ownership interest in Horseshoe Baltimore to approximately 75.8%. Prior to the purchase, we held an interest in Horseshoe Baltimore of approximately 44.3% which was accounted for as an equity method investment. Subsequent to the change in ownership, we determined we have a controlling financial interest and consolidated the operations forof Horseshoe Baltimore. As a result of the consolidation, we recognized a gain of $40 million during the year ended December 31, 2017 include incremental revenues2021. Additionally, on July 10, 2023, we completed the acquisition of the remaining 24.2% equity ownership in Horseshoe Baltimore, utilizing cash on hand, for a total of $66 million.
Divestitures and expensesDiscontinued Operations
Divestitures and Discontinued Operations – See “Overview” section above for eight months (May 2017 throughdetail of properties divested, including related discontinued operations.
The operations of Rio were assumed by the lessor on October 2, 2023, and we exited our management agreement with Caesars Dubai on November 16, 2023.
Financing Transactions
Debt Transactions We continue to utilize free cash flow to reduce our leverage, extend the maturity of our outstanding debt and balance our mix of fixed and variable debt. The following are the key financing transactions and their effects on our operations, from the use of free cash flow, unless otherwise noted:
Issued $2.0 billion CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2030 and amended the CEI Credit Agreement and incurred a new $2.5 billion CEI Term Loan B. Net proceeds received from these transactions were used to repay the $3.4 billion outstanding principal amount of the CRC Term Loan and the $1.0 billion outstanding principal amount of the CRC Incremental Term Loan on February 6, 2023.
Fully repaid $267 million of the outstanding principal balance of the Baltimore Term Loan as of July 17, 2023.
Prepaid the outstanding $400 million Forum Convention Center Mortgage Loan on May 1, 2023.


For the years ended December 2017) attributable31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, we recorded extinguishment charges of $200 million, $85 million and $236 million, respectively, which are recorded within Loss on extinguishment of debt on the Statements of Operations due to the thirteen propertiesaforementioned activity.
Refer to the Liquidity and Capital Resources section below for further discussion of our recent debt transactions, including our financing transactions subsequent to December 31, 2023, in which we acquiredissued $1.5 billion of new CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2032 and a new $2.9 billion CEI Term Loan B-1. Net proceeds received from these transactions, together with borrowings under our CEI Revolving Credit Facility, were used to tender, redeem, repurchase, defease, and/or satisfy and discharge the CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2025 and the CRC Senior Secured Notes.
Other Significant Factors
New Developments and Re-openings – During the construction of the permanent facilities for Caesars Virginia and Harrah’s Columbus Nebraska, we opened temporary gaming facilities during the second quarter of 2023. Caesars Virginia’s temporary facility opened on May 15, 2023 and Harrah’s Columbus Nebraska’s temporary facility opened on June 12, 2023. In addition to the temporary facilities, the reopening of Horseshoe Lake Charles in December 2022 has contributed to the Regional segment’s performance when compared to the prior year period.
Caesars Sportsbook, Caesars Racebook and iGaming mobile apps – During the year ended December 31, 2023, we launched Caesars Sportsbook in new jurisdictions, migrated our acquisitionsports betting platform to Liberty in Nevada, and launched our new online and mobile iGaming application, Caesars Palace Online Casino. As new states and jurisdictions have legalized sports betting, we have made varying degrees of Isle.

upfront investments executed through marketing campaigns and promotional incentives to acquire new customers and establish our presence. For example, in connection with the launch of our Caesars Sportsbook app in New York and Louisiana in January 2022, we experienced negative net revenue in the first quarter of 2022 resulting from a substantial amount of bonus cash and matched deposits issued to customers as sign-on incentives, which exceeded our gaming win. We continue to adjust our level of investment during the launch period in new jurisdictions based, in part, on prior experience and do not expect such investment to continue at elevated levels subsequent to the initial launch period. During the year ended December 31, 2023, promotional and marketing expenses have significantly decreased as compared to the prior year period.

Transaction expenses

Income Taxes – Management assesses the available positive and negative evidence to estimate if sufficient future taxable income will be generated to use existing deferred tax assets. During the second quarter of 2023, we evaluated our forecasted adjusted taxable income and objectively verifiable evidence and placed substantial weight on our 2022 and 2023 quarterly earnings, adjusted for non-recurring items, including the interest expense disallowed under current tax law. Accordingly, we determined it was more likely than not that a portion of the federal and state deferred tax assets will be realized and, as a result, during the second quarter of 2023, we reversed the valuation allowance related to our acquisitionthese deferred tax assets and recorded an income tax benefit of Isle for legal, accounting, financial advisory services, severance, stock awards$940 million. We are still carrying a valuation allowance on certain federal and state deferred tax assets that are not more likely than not to be realized in the future. We have assessed the changes to the valuation allowance, including realization of the disallowed interest expense deferred tax asset, using the integrated approach.
Economic Factors Impacting Discretionary Spending – Gaming and other costs totaled $92.8 million and $8.6 million for the years ending December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

Lake Charles Terminated Sale On August 22, 2016, Isle entered into an agreementleisure activities we offer represent discretionary expenditures which may be sensitive to sell its casino and hotel property in Lake Charles, Louisiana, for $134.5 million, subject to a customary purchase price adjustment, to an affiliate of Laguna Development Corporation, a Pueblo of Laguna-owned business based in Albuquerque, New Mexico. On November 21, 2017, we terminated the agreement. The closingeconomic downturns, such as the resurgence of the transaction was subject to certain closing conditions,Omicron variant of COVID-19 that negatively impacted the first quarter of 2022. We also monitor recent trends, including obtaining certain gaming approvals,higher inflation and was to occurinterest rates, and the related effects on or before the termination date, which had been extended by the parties to November 20, 2017. The buyer did not obtain the required gaming approvals prior to the termination date,our customers, and pursuant to the terms of the agreement, we retained the $20.0 million deposit. The $20.0 million forfeited deposit was recorded as income on the accompanying statements of income as “Proceeds from Terminated Sale.”

our operations.

In previous periods, the operations of Lake Charles have been classified as discontinued operations and as an asset held for sale.

Impairment Charges – As a result of our finalized and approved capital and operating plans and the terminationcompletion of our 2023 annual impairment testing, we recognized impairment charges during the year ended December 31, 2023 in our Regional segment. These impairments were primarily due to a decrease in projected cash flows at certain regional properties mainly due to increased competition. We identified one reporting unit where the estimated fair value of the sale, Lake Charles is no longer classified asassociated gaming rights was less than the carrying value and recorded an asset held for sale and accounted for as discontinued operations, and is includedimpairment of $81 million. In addition, we identified one reporting unit with an estimated fair value below its carrying value, resulting in total impairment of $14 million to goodwill.


During the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company recognized impairment charges in our results of operations for the eight-month period from the date we acquired Isle through December 31, 2017.

Income Taxes – On December 22, 2017, the U.S. government enacted comprehensive tax legislation commonly referredRegional segment related to as the Tax Cutsgoodwill and Jobs Act (the “Tax Act”). The Tax Act makes broadgaming rights totaling $78 million and complex changes$30 million, respectively, due to the U.S. tax code, including, but not limited to, reducing the U.S. federal corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%. In connection with our initial analysis of the impact of the Tax Act, for certain of our net deferred tax liabilities, we have recorded a decrease of $112.4 million, net ofan increase in the related change in valuation allowance, with a corresponding net adjustment to deferred income tax benefit fordiscount rates, which represents the year ending December 31, 2017higher required cost of capital as a result of the corporate rate reduction resulting inmacroeconomic environment and projected outlook.

In December 2021, we approved
a positive impact on net income.


Debt Refinancing – In connection with our acquisition of Isle, we completed a new debt financing transaction. The proceeds of the new borrowings were used to pay the cash portion of the consideration payable in the acquisition of Isle, refinance all of Isle’s existing credit facilities, redeem or otherwise repurchase all of Isle’s senior and senior subordinated notes, refinance our existing credit facility and pay transaction fees and expenses. In addition, we recognized a loss totaling $27.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 as a result of the debt refinancing transaction (See “Liquidity and Capital Resources” for more information related to the debt refinancing).

On September 13, 2017, we issuedcapital plan which included the planned rebranding of certain of our properties. We utilized an additional $500 million in aggregate principal amount of 6% Senior Notes at an issue price equalincome approach to 105.5%determine the fair value of the principal amount. We used the proceeds of the offering to repay all of the outstanding borrowings under the new revolving credit facility totaling $78.0 million and used the remainder to repay outstanding borrowings totaling $444.5 million under the new term loan plus related accrued interest. We recognized a loss of $11.1 million as a result of the issuance of additional debt and retirement of existing debt.

Impairment Charges – During the fourth quarter of 2017, we conducted annual impairment tests of our intangible assets. Based on less than expected operating performance and projected future operating results, it was determined that the value of goodwill and/or trade names associated with our Lake Charles, Vicksburg and Lula reporting units were impaired resulting in impairment charges totaling $38.0 million recorded in the current year.

Severe Weather – During the third quarter of 2017, Hurricanes Harvey and Irma negatively impacted our South region, specifically our Pompano, Lake Charles and Eldorado Shreveport properties, and made travel to those properties impossible or difficult. While Pompano did not sustain any major physical damage, we incurred incremental expenses as a result of the storms and were forced to close the casino for four days and experienced disruption to our business for a longer period of time.

Our West segment’s operations aretrademarks subject to seasonal variation, with our lowest business volume generally occurringrebranding based on their expected future cash flows, which resulted in an impairment charge of $102 million during the winter months. The northern Nevada region experienced record snowfall and severe weather conditions, including major snow storms during eleven of the fourteen weekends in the 2017 first quarter, making travel to Reno from northern California, our main feeder market, difficult or impossible due to road closures. As a result, there was a significant adverse effect on business levels, especially hotel occupancy and gaming volume, during the first quarter of 2017, and our operating performance for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared2021.

Weather Disruption During the first quarter of 2023, our Regional segment was negatively impacted by severe winter weather, particularly in northern Nevada, which caused poor and unsafe travel conditions reducing visitation to 2016.

Execution of Cost Savings Program – We continue to identify areas to improve property levelour Lake Tahoe and consolidated margins through operating and cost efficiencies and exercising financial discipline throughout the company without impacting the guest experience. In addition to cost savings relating to duplicative executive compensation, legal and accounting fees and other corporate expenses that have been eliminated as a result of our acquisitions, we have achieved savings in marketing, food and beverage costs, selling, general and administrative expenses, and other operating departments as a result of operating efficiencies and purchasing power of the combined Eldorado organization.

Property Enhancement Capital Expenditures – Property enhancement initiatives continued throughout 2016 and into 2017. In 2015 and 2016, major projects included the opening of Brew Brothers at Presque Isle Downs and Scioto Downs along with a second smoking patio at Scioto Downs.

Our master capital plan initiated in 2016 at Eldorado Reno Silver Legacy and Circus Reno (the “Tri-Properties”) continued throughout 2017. As of December 31, 2017, we have completed upgrades to nearly 1,000 hotel rooms and suites, updated food and beverage operations across the facilities with eight new or redesigned restaurants, cafes or bars, renovated the Carnival Midway, created new public spaces in all three properties and opened a new poker room and sports book. 

A 118-room Hampton Inn Hotel at Scioto Downs developed by a third party opened in March 2017 and since opening has driven visitation and spend at the property.

With the completion of our acquisition of Isle, we continue to evaluate capital improvement plans across the newly acquired properties and plan upgrades to more than 1,200 hotel rooms and add a spa at our Black Hawk properties and Brew Brothers branded outlets at certain Midwest properties in 2018.

Circus Reno/Silver Legacy PurchaseIn conjunction with the acquisition of the Reno properties in November 2015, we paid $80.2 million in cash, comprised of the $72.5 million purchase price plus $7.7 million in estimated working capital adjustments and the assumption of the amounts outstanding under Silver Legacy’s senior secured term loan facility. An additional $0.5 million was subsequently paid representing the final working capital adjustment. We funded the purchase price for our acquisition of the Reno properties and repaid the borrowings outstanding under the Silver Legacy credit facility using a portion of the proceeds from the sale of our 7% senior notes, borrowings under our revolving credit facility and cash on hand. We recorded a $35.6 million gain related to the valuation of our pre-acquisition investment in the Silver Legacy Joint Venture and incurred acquisition costs totaling $2.5 million in 2015. We incurred an additional $0.6 million in acquisition charges in 2016. In 2015, we also expensed fees totaling $0.6 million related to our equity offering initially intended to fund our


acquisition of the Reno properties. These fees were expensed as a result of our election to fund the final component of our acquisition of the Reno properties with existing revolver capacity in lieu of an equity offering.

New RegulationEffective January 1, 2016, the Ohio Lottery Commission enacted new regulation which resulted in the establishment of a $1.0 million progressive slot liability and a corresponding decrease in net slot win forproperties. During the year ended December 31, 2016. The changes are non-cash2022, we reached a final settlement agreement with the insurance carriers for the damage and relateddisruption caused by Hurricane Laura to jackpots establishedour Lake Charles property in prior years. The net non-cash impact to Scioto Down’s gaming revenues and operating income was $1.02020 for a total amount of $128 million, before our insurance deductible of $25 million. We recorded gains of $38 million and $0.6$21 million forduring the yearyears ended December 31, 2016, respectively.

2022 and 2021, respectively, which are included in Transaction and other costs in our Statements of Operations, as proceeds received for the cost to replace damaged property were in excess of respective carrying value of the assets.

Results of Operations

The following table highlights the results of our operations (dollarsoperations:
Years Ended December 31,
(Dollars in millions)202320222021
Net revenues:
Las Vegas$4,470 $4,287 $3,409 
Regional5,778 5,704 5,537 
Caesars Digital973 548 337 
Managed and Branded307 282 278 
Corporate and Other (a)
— — 
Total$11,528 $10,821 $9,570 
Net income (loss)$828 $(910)$(1,016)
Adjusted EBITDA (b):
Las Vegas$2,016 $1,964 $1,568 
Regional1,962 1,985 1,979 
Caesars Digital38 (666)(476)
Managed and Branded76 84 87 
Corporate and Other (a)
(154)(124)(168)
Total$3,938 $3,243 $2,990 
Net income (loss) margin7.2 %(8.4)%(10.6)%
Adjusted EBITDA margin34.2 %30.0 %31.2 %
___________________
(a)Corporate and Other includes revenues related to certain licensing arrangements and various revenue sharing agreements. Corporate and Other Adjusted EBITDA includes corporate overhead costs, which consist of certain expenses, such as: payroll, professional fees and other general and administrative expenses.
(b)See the “Supplemental Unaudited Presentation of Consolidated Adjusted Earnings before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization (“Adjusted EBITDA”)” discussion later in thousands):

 

 

Year Ended

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31,

 

 

Change %

 

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

 

2017 vs 2016

 

 

 

2016 vs 2015

 

 

Net revenues

 

$

 

1,473,504

 

 

$

 

892,896

 

 

$

 

719,784

 

 

 

65.0

 

%

 

 

24.1

 

%

Operating income

 

 

 

94,869

 

 

 

 

89,118

 

 

 

 

72,516

 

 

 

6.5

 

%

 

 

22.9

 

%

Net income

 

 

 

73,940

 

 

 

 

24,802

 

 

 

 

114,183

 

 

 

198.1

 

%

 

 

(78.3

)

%

Operating Results.  Isle contributed $599.6 millionthis MD&A for a description of Adjusted EBITDA and a reconciliation of net revenues fromincome (loss) to Adjusted EBITDA.

Consolidated comparison for the date we acquired Isle throughyears ended December 31, 2017 consisting primarily2023, 2022 and 2021
The following table highlights the results of gaming revenues. Including the incremental Isle net operating revenues, net revenues increased 65.0% for theour operations: Comparisons between 2023 and 2022 are described below. A discussion of changes in our results of operations between year ended December 31, 20172022 compared to 2016. Excluding incremental Isle net revenues, net revenues declined 2.1% for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to 2016 primarily due to decreased revenues associated with severe weather during the first2021 has been omitted from this Annual Report on Form 10-K and third quarterscan be found in “Item 7 - Management's Discussion and Analysis of 2017.

Net revenues increased 24.1% in 2016 compared to 2015 primarily due to incremental revenues attributable to the acquisitionFinancial Condition and Results of the Reno properties. These increases in net revenues were partially offset by decreases in net revenues in the South and East segments, which were mainly driven by declines at Mountaineer, in 2016 compared to 2015 due to lower casino revenues, attributable to a competitive opening in one of our feeder markets.

Operating income increased 6.5% for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to 2016. This increase was primarily due to $82.3 million of incremental operating income contributed by Isle for the period from the date we acquired Isle through December 31, 2017 and a $20.0 million deposit recorded as operating income in conjunction with the termination of the sale our Lake Charles property. These increases were partially offset by the $83.6 million increase in transaction expenses associated with our acquisition of Isle and the $38.0 million impairment charge recorded in 2017 to reduce the carrying value of goodwill and/or trade names related to our Lake Charles, Lula and Vicksburg reporting units.

Operating income increased 22.9% in 2016 compared to 2015 due to higher net revenues combined with improved operating margins associated with company-wide cost savings initiatives and property enhancement capital expenditures. These increases in operating income were partially offset by incremental depreciation expense resulting from the acquisition of the Reno properties along with higher acquisition costs associated with our acquisition of Isle which was announced in September of 2016.

Net income increased 198.1% in 2017 compared to 2016 primarily due to the $112.4 million net adjustment to our deferred income tax benefit for the year ending December 31, 2017 as a result of the aforementioned corporate tax rate reduction due to the Tax Act, combined with the other factors impacting operating income. This increase was partially offset by higher interest expense resulting from the issuance of new debt and the loss on the early retirement of debt recorded in 2017.

Net income decreased 78.3% in 2016 compared to 2015 despite the increase in operating income. This decline was primarily driven by a $35.6 million gain related to the valuation of the Silver Legacy Joint Venture in conjunction with the acquisition of the Reno properties combined with a $69.6 million benefit for income taxes recorded in 2015. Additionally, net income in 2016 was impacted by transaction expenses totaling $9.2 million, primarily related to our acquisition of Isle, a $0.8 million loss on the sale and disposal of a building and equipment related to the closure of a detached fitness center facility at Mountaineer and incremental depreciation associated with assets purchased in the acquisition of the Reno properties. These declines in net income were partially offset by a $10.6 million decrease in interest expense in 2016 resulting from our refinancing in July 2015 and significant debt reductions throughout 2016.


Net Revenues and Operating Income

The following table highlights our net revenues and operating income (loss) by reportable segment (dollars in thousands):

 

 

Net Revenues for the Year Ended December 31,

 

 

Operating Income (Loss) for the Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

West

 

$

 

405,202

 

 

$

 

321,922

 

 

$

 

127,802

 

 

$

 

66,329

 

 

$

 

41,620

 

 

$

 

13,989

 

Midwest

 

 

 

268,385

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

62,051

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

South

 

 

 

336,709

 

 

 

 

131,496

 

 

 

 

136,342

 

 

 

 

3,671

 

 

 

 

23,378

 

 

 

 

21,423

 

East

 

 

 

462,702

 

 

 

 

439,478

 

 

 

 

455,640

 

 

 

 

67,968

 

 

 

 

53,610

 

 

 

 

56,491

 

Corporate

 

 

 

506

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(105,150

)

 

 

 

(29,490

)

 

 

 

(19,387

)

Total

 

$

 

1,473,504

 

 

$

 

892,896

 

 

$

 

719,784

 

 

$

 

94,869

 

 

$

 

89,118

 

 

$

 

72,516

 


Operations - Year Ended December 31, 20172022 Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2016

2021” of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022.



Net Revenues
Net revenues and operating expenses were as follows (dollars in thousands):

follows:

 

 

Year Ended

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

 

Variance

 

 

Percent

 

 

Revenues:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gaming and Pari-Mutuel Commissions:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

West

 

$

 

250,463

 

 

$

 

173,439

 

 

$

 

77,024

 

 

 

44.4

 

%

Midwest

 

 

 

249,268

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

249,268

 

 

 

100.0

 

%

South

 

 

 

312,727

 

 

 

 

121,046

 

 

 

 

191,681

 

 

 

158.4

 

%

East

 

 

 

430,216

 

 

 

 

407,128

 

 

 

 

23,088

 

 

 

5.7

 

%

Total Gaming and Pari-Mutuel Commissions

 

 

 

1,242,674

 

 

 

 

701,613

 

 

 

 

541,061

 

 

 

77.1

 

%

Non-gaming:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

West

 

 

 

211,000

 

 

 

 

193,529

 

 

 

 

17,471

 

 

 

9.0

 

%

Midwest

 

 

 

37,642

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

37,642

 

 

 

100.0

 

%

South

 

 

 

64,998

 

 

 

 

37,937

 

 

 

 

27,061

 

 

 

71.3

 

%

East

 

 

 

49,769

 

 

 

 

50,117

 

 

 

 

(348

)

 

 

(0.7

)

%

Corporate

 

 

 

506

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

506

 

 

 

100.0

 

%

Total Non-gaming

 

 

 

363,915

 

 

 

 

281,583

 

 

 

 

82,332

 

 

 

29.2

 

%

Total Gross Revenues

 

 

 

1,606,589

 

 

 

 

983,196

 

 

 

 

623,393

 

 

 

63.4

 

%

Promotional allowances:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

West

 

 

 

(56,261

)

 

 

 

(45,046

)

 

 

 

(11,215

)

 

 

24.9

 

%

Midwest

 

 

 

(18,525

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(18,525

)

 

 

100.0

 

%

South

 

 

 

(41,016

)

 

 

 

(27,487

)

 

 

 

(13,529

)

 

 

49.2

 

%

East

 

 

 

(17,283

)

 

 

 

(17,767

)

 

 

 

484

 

 

 

(2.7

)

%

Total Promotional Allowances

 

 

 

(133,085

)

 

 

 

(90,300

)

 

 

 

(42,785

)

 

 

47.4

 

%

Total Net Revenues

 

 

 

1,473,504

 

 

 

 

892,896

 

 

 

 

580,608

 

 

 

65.0

 

%

Expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gaming and Pari-Mutuel Commissions:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

West

 

 

 

107,644

 

 

 

 

79,019

 

 

 

 

28,625

 

 

 

36.2

 

%

Midwest

 

 

 

110,897

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

110,897

 

 

 

100.0

 

%

South

 

 

 

164,012

 

 

 

 

66,459

 

 

 

 

97,553

 

 

 

146.8

 

%

East

 

 

 

269,318

 

 

 

 

254,634

 

 

 

 

14,684

 

 

 

5.8

 

%

Total Gaming and Pari-Mutuel Commissions

 

 

 

651,871

 

 

 

 

400,112

 

 

 

 

251,759

 

 

 

62.9

 

%

Non-gaming

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

West

 

 

 

101,914

 

 

 

 

102,063

 

 

 

 

(149

)

 

 

(0.1

)

%

Midwest

 

 

 

12,203

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12,203

 

 

 

100.0

 

%

South

 

 

 

18,560

 

 

 

 

7,333

 

 

 

 

11,227

 

 

 

153.1

 

%

East

 

 

 

22,358

 

 

 

 

30,149

 

 

 

 

(7,791

)

 

 

(25.8

)

%

Total Non-gaming

 

 

 

155,035

 

 

 

 

139,545

 

 

 

 

15,490

 

 

 

11.1

 

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Marketing and promotions

 

 

 

82,525

 

 

 

 

40,600

 

 

 

 

41,925

 

 

 

103.3

 

%

General and administrative

 

 

 

241,095

 

 

 

 

130,172

 

 

 

 

110,923

 

 

 

85.2

 

%

Corporate

 

 

 

30,739

 

 

 

 

19,880

 

 

 

 

10,859

 

 

 

54.6

 

%

Impairment charges

 

 

 

38,016

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

38,016

 

 

 

100.0

 

%

Depreciation and amortization

 

 

 

105,891

 

 

 

 

63,449

 

 

 

 

42,442

 

 

 

66.9

 

%

Total Operating Expenses

 

$

 

1,305,172

 

 

$

 

793,758

 

 

$

 

511,414

 

 

 

64.4

 

%

Years Ended December 31,VariancePercent ChangeVariancePercent Change
(Dollars in millions)2023202220212023 vs 20222022 vs 2021
Casino$6,367 $5,997 $5,827 $370 6.2 %$170 2.9 %
Food and beverage1,728 1,596 1,140 132 8.3 %456 40.0 %
Hotel2,090 1,957 1,551 133 6.8 %406 26.2 %
Other1,343 1,271 1,052 72 5.7 %219 20.8 %
Net Revenues$11,528 $10,821 $9,570 $707 6.5 %$1,251 13.1 %

Gaming Revenues and Pari-Mutuel Commissions.  Isle contributed $558.2 million of gaming

Consolidated net revenues and pari-mutuel commissions for the period from the date we acquired Isle through December 31, 2017 resulting in an increase of 77.1%increased for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to 2016.


Excluding incremental Isle gaming revenues and pari-mutuel commissions of $558.2 million, gaming revenues declined 2.5% for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to 20162023 primarily due to a decrease inhigher gaming revenues across all segments. The decline in the WestCaesars Digital segment was mainly attributableresulting from higher sports betting hold and additional state launches of our online and retail Caesars Sportsbooks. Promotional allowances offered during launches in new jurisdictions were significantly reduced year over year. Hotel occupancy rates within the Las Vegas segment continued to decreasesimprove as compared to the same prior year periods and also contributed to the increase in visitor traffic due to severe weathernet revenues. The Regional segment benefited from the northern Nevada region experienced throughoutopening of two temporary gaming facilities, Caesars Virginia on May 15, 2023 and Harrah’s Columbus Nebraska on June 12, 2023, as well as the reopening of Horseshoe Lake Charles in December 2022. Further, the Omicron variant of COVID-19 negatively impacted prior year results during the first quarter of 2017 that resulted2022 across substantially all of our properties, including disruptions to group and conventions, banquets, and scheduled concert events. These improved results were partially offset by increased competition associated with new casino resorts opening in limited access fromsome of our main feederregional markets, combined with the absence of a major bowling tournament in the Reno market. Additionally, reductions in gaming volume driven by decreased high-end play, the continued weakness in the energy sectorconstruction disruptions, and historically lower table games hold percentage impacted the Shreveport market and severeinclement weather in the third quarter of 2017 negatively impacted the South segment in 2017. Efforts to eliminate unprofitable gaming play via reductions in marketing promotions and incentives across the properties also contributed to the declinescountry, particularly in casino volume and positively impacted margins across all segments.

Non-gaming Revenues.  Isle contributed $91.7 million of non-gaming revenues for the period from the date we acquired Isle through December 31, 2017 resulting in an increase of 29.2% over 2016.

Excluding incremental Isle non-gaming revenues of $91.7 million, non-gaming revenues decreased 3.3% for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to 2016. The West segment declined for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to 2016 principally due to lower hotel, food and beverage revenues resulting from reduced customer traffic due to fewer convention room nights, severe weather in the northern Nevada, region throughoutwhich restricted travel in the first quarter of 20172023. The Company continues to expand partnerships with iconic entertainers to host concerts and the absence of a major bowling tournament during 2017. The South segment decrease in non-gaming revenues for the year ended December 31, 2017 comparedperformances, and celebrity chefs to 2016 was primarily due to decreasedoffer new food and beverage revenuesvenues to drive new and repeat visitation to our properties.

Operating Expenses
Operating expenses were as follows:
Years Ended December 31,VariancePercent ChangeVariancePercent Change
(Dollars in millions)2023202220212023 vs 20222022 vs 2021
Casino$3,342 $3,526 $3,129 $(184)(5.2)%$397 12.7 %
Food and beverage1,049 935 707 114 12.2 %228 32.2 %
Hotel570 529 438 41 7.8 %91 20.8 %
Other434 411 373 23 5.6 %38 10.2 %
General and administrative2,012 2,068 1,782 (56)(2.7)%286 16.0 %
Corporate306 286 309 20 7.0 %(23)(7.4)%
Impairment charges95 108 102 (13)(12.0)%5.9 %
Depreciation and amortization1,261 1,205 1,126 56 4.6 %79 7.0 %
Transaction and other costs, net(13)14 144 (27)*(130)(90.3)%
Total operating expenses$9,056 $9,082 $8,110 $(26)(0.3)%$972 12.0 %
___________________
*    Not meaningful.
Casino expenses consist primarily of salaries and wages associated with revisionsour gaming operations, gaming taxes and marketing and promotions attributable to marketing strategies resulting in fewer complimentaryour Caesars Digital segment. Food and beverage expenses consist principally of salaries and wages and costs of goods sold associated with our food offers and severe weather negatively impacting visitation in 2017. Non-gaming revenues in the East segmentbeverage operations. Hotel expenses consist principally of salaries and wages, supplies and costs of services associated with our hotel operations. Other expenses consist principally of salaries and wages and costs of goods sold associated with our retail, entertainment and other operations.
Casino expenses decreased for the year ended December 31, 20172023 as compared to 2016 primarilythe same prior year period due to decreaseda reduction in advertising costs from the promotion of our Caesars Sportsbook app and Caesars Digital’s expansion into new jurisdictions, particularly in the first quarter of 2022. Food and beverage and hotel expenses have increased in connection with increased revenues; however, we continue to focus on labor efficiencies to manage rising labor costs and strategically manage our marketing and advertising spend to reduce our casino expenses. Similarly, we continue to manage recent increases in food costs by focusing on efficiencies within food and beverage revenues resulting from reductions in complimentary food offersvenues and menu options.


General and administrative expenses include items such as information technology, facility maintenance, utilities, property and liability insurance, expenses for administrative departments such as accounting, compliance, purchasing, human resources, legal, internal audit, and property taxes. General and administrative expenses also include other marketing expenses indirectly related to our gaming and non-gaming operations.
Corporate expenses include unallocated expenses such as payroll, inclusive of the consolidation of restaurants in an effortannual bonus, stock-based compensation, professional fees, and other various expenses not directly related to maximize capacity utilization.

Promotional Allowances.  Promotional allowances, expressed as a percentage of gaming revenuesthe Company’s operations.

Transaction and pari-mutuel commissions, decreased to 10.7%other costs, net for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to 12.9%2023 primarily includes non-cash changes in 2016. This decline was primarily due to strategic revisions to promotional offers across all segments combinedequity method investments and a gain of $29 million associated with the incremental revenues contributed by the Isle properties, which historically have lower promotional allowances as a percentage of gaming revenues.

Gaming Expenses and Pari-Mutuel Commissions.  Isle contributed $269.5 million of gaming expenses and pari-mutuel commissions for the periodproceeds received from the date we acquired Isle through December 31, 2017 resultingsale of a potential insurance recovery. Offsetting these costs are non-cash losses on the write down and disposal of assets and pre-opening costs in an increase of 62.9% over 2016.

Excluding incremental Isle gaming expensesconnection with new temporary facility openings. Transaction and pari-mutuel commissions, gaming expenses and pari-mutuel commissions decreased 4.1%other costs, net for the year ended December 31, 20172022 primarily represents professional services for integration activities and various contract exit or termination costs, offset by a $38 million gain in the first quarter of 2022 resulting from insurance proceeds received in excess of the respective carrying value of damaged assets associated with our Lake Charles property.

Other Expense
Other expense was as follows:
Years Ended December 31,VariancePercent ChangeVariancePercent Change
(Dollars in millions)2023202220212023 vs 20222022 vs 2021
Interest expense, net$(2,342)$(2,265)$(2,295)$(77)(3.4)%$30 1.3 %
Loss on extinguishment of debt(200)(85)(236)(115)(135.3)%151 64.0 %
Other income (loss)10 46 (198)(36)(78.3)%244 *
Benefit for income taxes888 41 283 847 *(242)(85.5)%
___________________
*    Not meaningful.
For the year ended December 31, 2023, interest expense, net increased year over year due to annual escalators in our financing obligations related to our VICI Leases, including escalators based on the Consumer Price Index (“CPI”) that take effect in November of each year. In addition, although we have reduced our outstanding debt, rising interest rates have negatively impacted our borrowing rates and resulted in interest expense related to debt service to be flat compared to 2016the prior year.
For the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, loss on extinguishment of debt was primarily due to decreases in gaming volume combined with savings initiatives targeted at reducing variable expenses along with continued synergies related to the integrationprepayments of the Reno properties inCaesars Resort Collection (“CRC”) Term Loan and the West segment. Additionally, successful efforts to control costs and maximize departmental profit across all segments also droveCRC Incremental Term Loan. In addition, on July 17, 2023, we repaid the decline in expenses during the current period.

Non-gaming Expenses. Isle contributed $30.1 million of non-gaming expenses for the period from the date we acquired Isle through December 31, 2017 resulting in an increase of 11.1% over 2016.

Excluding incremental Isle non-gaming expenses, non-gaming expensesBaltimore Term Loan.

Other income decreased 11.8% for the year ended December 31, 20172023, as compared to 2016prior year, mainly due to a change in conjunction with non-gaming revenue declinesthe fair value of foreign exchange forward contracts and successful effortsa gain related to control coststhe resolution of a disputed claims liability, offset by the change in fair value of investments, all of which were recorded in the prior year.
The income tax benefit was $888 million for 2023 and maximize profit across all segments.

Marketing$41 million for 2022. The reported income tax benefit in 2023 differed from the statutory income tax benefit primarily due to the partial release of federal and Promotions Expenses.  Isle contributed $35.8state valuation allowances. During the second quarter of 2023, we reversed the valuation allowance related to certain deferred tax assets and recorded a one-time income tax benefit of $940 million, as we determined it was more likely than not that a portion of marketingour federal and promotions expensestate deferred tax assets would be realized. Refer to Item 8. - Note 17 for the period fromeffective income tax rate reconciliation.



Segment comparison for the date we acquired Isle throughyears ended December 31, 2017 resulting2023, 2022 and 2021
Las Vegas Segment
Years Ended December 31,VariancePercent ChangeVariancePercent Change
(Dollars in millions)2023202220212023 vs 20222022 vs 2021
Revenues:
Casino$1,212 $1,247 $1,226 $(35)(2.8)%$21 1.7 %
Food and beverage1,152 1,063 702 89 8.4 %361 51.4 %
Hotel1,447 1,341 968 106 7.9 %373 38.5 %
Other659 636 513 23 3.6 %123 24.0 %
Net revenues$4,470 $4,287 $3,409 $183 4.3 %$878 25.8 %
Table game drop$3,428 $3,464 $3,088 $(36)(1.0)%$376 12.2 %
Table game hold %22.2 %22.0 %20.2 %0.2 pts1.8 pts
Slot handle$11,057 $10,718 $10,309 $339 3.2 %$409 4.0 %
Hotel occupancy96.8 %92.2 %82.1 %4.6 pts10.1 pts
Adjusted EBITDA$2,016 $1,964 $1,568 $52 2.6 %$396 25.3 %
Adjusted EBITDA margin45.1 %45.8 %46.0 %(0.7) pts(0.2) pts
Net income attributable to Caesars$1,042 $1,021 $641 $21 2.1 %$380 59.3 %
The Las Vegas segment’s net revenues, net income and Adjusted EBITDA increased year over year primarily due to higher hotel, food and beverage and entertainment revenues. The increase in food and beverage revenues was mainly driven by higher restaurant covers and improved product mix associated with the additions of new casual and premier dining venues. Other revenue increased primarily due to entertainment revenues attributable to an increase in both the quality and number of 103.3% over 2016.

Excluding incremental Isle marketingheadliner performances in the current year compared to prior year. In addition, during the first quarter of 2022, the resurgence of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 had a significant negative impact on visitation, group and promotions expenses, consolidated marketingconventions, and promotions expensescheduled concert events. As a result, the Las Vegas segment experienced increased 15.1%visitation during 2023 compared to the prior year which has driven higher hotel occupancy, improved room rates, higher food and beverage revenues and additional entertainment revenues.

The increases in net revenues, net income and Adjusted EBITDA were partially offset by growth in overall union and non-union wages and headcount. Additionally, our Las Vegas segment experienced challenges in the middle of 2023, related to construction disruption and roadwork on the Las Vegas Strip. As a result, the Las Vegas segment’s Adjusted EBITDA margin decreased slightly as compared to the prior year.
Slot win percentage in the Las Vegas segment during the year ended December 31, 2023 was within our typical range.


Regional Segment
Years Ended December 31,VariancePercent ChangeVariancePercent Change
(Dollars in millions)2023202220212023 vs 20222022 vs 2021
Revenues:
Casino$4,272 $4,291 $4,305 $(19)(0.4)%$(14)(0.3)%
Food and beverage576 533 438 43 8.1 %95 21.7 %
Hotel643 616 583 27 4.4 %33 5.7 %
Other287 264 211 23 8.7 %53 25.1 %
Net revenues$5,778 $5,704 $5,537 $74 1.3 %$167 3.0 %
Table game drop$4,188 $4,270 $4,163 $(82)(1.9)%$107 2.6 %
Table game hold %21.7 %22.0 %21.0 %(0.3) pts1 pts
Slot handle$43,211 $42,853 $42,873 $358 0.8 %$(20)— %
Adjusted EBITDA$1,962 $1,985 $1,979 $(23)(1.2)%$0.3 %
Adjusted EBITDA margin34.0 %34.8 %35.7 %(0.8) pts(0.9) pts
Net income attributable to Caesars$377 $463 $637 $(86)(18.6)%$(174)(27.3)%
The Regional segment’s net revenues increased for the year ended December 31, 20172023 compared to 2016. This increase wasthe same prior year period, primarily attributablerelated to marketing promotional costsincremental net revenues generated from the reopening of Horseshoe Lake Charles in the fourth quarter of 2022 and the opening of our temporary gaming facilities at Caesars Virginia on May 15, 2023 and Harrah’s Columbus Nebraska on June 12, 2023. These increases were partially offset by competition associated with new casino initiatives that are chargedresorts opening in some of our regional markets, construction disruption from renovation projects at certain of our properties and inclement weather across the country, particularly in northern Nevada, which restricted travel in the first quarter of 2023. In addition, wage and headcount increases resulted in higher labor costs during the current year. Increased interest expense associated with our VICI Leases and additional depreciation expense related to this categoryour new gaming facilities led to provide consistency among properties following our acquisition of Isle.

General and Administrative Expenses.  Isle contributed $113.6 million of general and administrative expense fora decline in net income as compared to the period fromsame prior year period. As a result, Adjusted EBITDA decreased as compared to the date we acquired Isle throughprior year.

Slot win percentage in the Regional segment during the year ended December 31, 2017 resulting in an increase2023 was within our typical range.



Caesars Digital Segment
Years Ended December 31,VariancePercent ChangeVariancePercent Change
(Dollars in millions)2023202220212023 vs 20222022 vs 2021
Revenues:
Casino (a)
$886 $462 $296 $424 91.8 %$166 56.1 %
Other87 86 41 1.2 %45 109.8 %
Net revenues$973 $548 $337 $425 77.6 %$211 62.6 %
Sports betting handle (b)
$12,089 $12,801 $6,046 $(712)(5.6)%$6,755 111.7 %
Sports betting hold %6.3 %5.4 %4.3 %0.9 pts1.1 pts
iGaming handle$10,622 $8,073 $5,621 $2,549 31.6 %$2,452 43.6 %
iGaming hold %3.1 %3.2 %3.3 %(0.1) pts(0.1) pts
Adjusted EBITDA$38 $(666)$(476)$704 *$(190)(39.9)%
Adjusted EBITDA margin3.9 %(121.5)%(141.2)%*19.7 pts
Net loss attributable to Caesars$(91)$(790)$(580)$699 88.5 %$(210)(36.2)%
___________________
*    Not meaningful.
(a)Includes total promotional and administrative expenses, consolidated generalcomplimentary incentives related to sports betting, iGaming, and administrative expenses decreased 1.4%poker of $253 million, $542 million and $187 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to 2016. Savings associated with lower property2023, 2022 and general liability insurance costs2021, respectively. Promotional and complimentary incentives for poker were partially offset by higher expenses associated with information systems maintenance contracts$14 million, $21 million and professional services. These incremental costs resulted from information technology infrastructure projects targeted at consolidating systems for future savings and efficiencies.


Corporate Expenses.  For the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to 2016, corporate expenses increased due to payroll and other expenses associated with additional corporate expenses driven by growth related to the Isle acquisition. Also, the increase was the result of higher stock compensation expense$18 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to 2016 due to the three-year vesting schedule associated with our long-term incentive plan established in 2015 resulting in three years of grants2023, 2022 and related expense in 2017 versus two years of grants2021, respectively.

(b)Caesars Digital generated an additional $1.1 billion, $1.2 billion and related expense in 2016.

Impairment Charges. During the fourth quarter of 2017, we conducted annual impairment tests of our intangible assets. Based on less than expected operating performance and projected future operating results, it was determined that the value of goodwill and/or trade names associated with our Lake Charles, Vicksburg and Lula reporting units were impaired resulting in impairment charges totaling $38.0 million ($34.9 million related to goodwill and $3.1 million related to trade names) recorded in the current year.

Depreciation and Amortization Expense.  Isle contributed $47.1$706 million of depreciation expense for the period from the date we acquired Isle through December 31, 2017 resulting in an increase of 66.9% over 2016.  

Excluding incremental Isle depreciation and amortization expense, depreciation and amortization expense decreased 7.3%sports betting handle for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to 2016 mainly due to lower depreciation2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, which is not included in this table, for select wholly-owned and third-party operations for which Caesars Digital provides services and we receive all, segments due to assets becoming fully depreciated.

Benefit (Provision) for Income Taxes.  As further explained below in “Critical Accounting Policies – Income Taxes,” on December 22, 2017, the U.S. government enacted comprehensive tax legislation commonly referred to as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. The Tax Act makes broad and complex changes to the U.S. tax code, including, but not limited to, reducing the U.S. federal corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%. In connection with our initial analysisor a share of, the impact of the Tax Act, for certain of our net deferred tax liabilities, we have recorded a decrease of $112.4 million, net of theprofits. Hold related change in valuation allowance, with a corresponding net adjustment to deferred income tax benefitthese operations was 10.4%, 11.0% and 9.7% for the year endingended December 31, 20172023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Sports betting handle includes $45 million, $50 million and $40 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, related to horse racing and pari-mutuel wagers.

Caesars Digital reflects the operations for retail and mobile sports betting, iGaming, poker, and horse racing, which includes our Caesars Sportsbook, Caesars Racebook and iGaming mobile apps.
Caesars Digital’s net revenues, net loss, Adjusted EBITDA, and Adjusted EBITDA margin improved for the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to prior year, primarily due to higher sports betting hold combined with lower year over year promotional and marketing expenses for launches in new states and jurisdictions in 2023. The increase in iGaming handle was slightly offset by decreased hold during the period. During the third quarter of 2023, we completed the migration of sports betting operations in Nevada to the Liberty platform and launched our new Caesars Palace Online Casino application in states and territories where we operate iGaming.
We experienced negative net revenue in the first quarter of 2022 as a result of increased promotional offerings for new state launches in New York and Louisiana. We have refined our promotional intensity during the corporate rate reduction.

launch period in new jurisdictions based, in part, on prior experience and do not expect such investments to continue at elevated levels subsequent to initial launch periods.

As sports betting and online casinos expand through increased state or jurisdictional legalization, new product launches, and customer adoption, variations in hold percentages and increases in promotional and marketing expenses in highly competitive markets during promotional periods may negatively impact Caesars Digital’s net revenues, net income, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin in comparison to current or prior periods.

Year Ended

Sports betting and iGaming hold percentages for the year ended December 31, 2016 Compared2023 were within our typical range.


Managed and Branded Segment
Years Ended December 31,VariancePercent ChangeVariancePercent Change
(Dollars in millions)2023202220212023 vs 20222022 vs 2021
Revenues:
Other$307 $282 $278 $25 8.9 %$1.4 %
Net revenues$307 $282 $278 $25 8.9 %$1.4 %
Adjusted EBITDA$76 $84 $87 $(8)(9.5)%$(3)(3.4)%
Adjusted EBITDA margin24.8 %29.8 %31.3 %(5) pts(1.5) pts
Net income (loss) attributable to Caesars$101 $(301)$68 $402 *$(369)*
___________________
*    Not meaningful.
We manage several properties and license rights to the Year Ended December 31, 2015

Net revenues and operating expenses were as follows (dollars in thousands):

 

 

Year Ended

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

 

Variance

 

 

Percent

 

 

Revenues:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gaming and Pari-Mutuel Commissions:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

West

 

$

 

173,439

 

 

$

 

74,626

 

 

$

 

98,813

 

 

 

132.4

 

%

Midwest

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

%

South

 

 

 

121,046

 

 

 

 

125,371

 

 

 

 

(4,325

)

 

 

(3.4

)

%

East

 

 

 

407,128

 

 

 

 

423,261

 

 

 

 

(16,133

)

 

 

(3.8

)

%

Total Gaming and Pari-Mutuel Commissions

 

 

 

701,613

 

 

 

 

623,258

 

 

 

 

78,355

 

 

 

12.6

 

%

Non-gaming:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

West

 

 

 

193,529

 

 

 

 

72,214

 

 

 

 

121,315

 

 

 

168.0

 

%

Midwest

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

%

South

 

 

 

37,937

 

 

 

 

37,273

 

 

 

 

664

 

 

 

1.8

 

%

East

 

 

 

50,117

 

 

 

 

51,796

 

 

 

 

(1,679

)

 

 

(3.2

)

%

Total Non-gaming

 

 

 

281,583

 

 

 

 

161,283

 

 

 

 

120,300

 

 

 

74.6

 

%

Total Gross Revenues

 

 

 

983,196

 

 

 

 

784,541

 

 

 

 

198,655

 

 

 

25.3

 

%

Promotional allowances:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

West

 

 

 

(45,046

)

 

 

 

(19,038

)

 

 

 

(26,008

)

 

 

136.6

 

%

Midwest

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

%

South

 

 

 

(27,487

)

 

 

 

(26,302

)

 

 

 

(1,185

)

 

 

4.5

 

%

East

 

 

 

(17,767

)

 

 

 

(19,417

)

 

 

 

1,650

 

 

 

(8.5

)

%

Total Promotional Allowances

 

 

 

(90,300

)

 

 

 

(64,757

)

 

 

 

(25,543

)

 

 

39.4

 

%

Total Net Revenues

 

 

 

892,896

 

 

 

 

719,784

 

 

 

 

173,112

 

 

 

24.1

 

%

Expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gaming and Pari-Mutuel Commissions:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

West

 

 

 

79,019

 

 

 

 

32,908

 

 

 

 

46,111

 

 

 

140.1

 

%

Midwest

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

%

South

 

 

 

66,459

 

 

 

 

69,826

 

 

 

 

(3,367

)

 

 

(4.8

)

%

East

 

 

 

254,634

 

 

 

 

264,811

 

 

 

 

(10,177

)

 

 

(3.8

)

%

Total Gaming and Pari-Mutuel Commissions

 

 

 

400,112

 

 

 

 

367,545

 

 

 

 

32,567

 

 

 

8.9

 

%

Non-gaming

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

West

 

 

 

102,063

 

 

 

 

41,798

 

 

 

 

60,265

 

 

 

144.2

 

%

Midwest

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

%

South

 

 

 

7,333

 

 

 

 

8,134

 

 

 

 

(801

)

 

 

(9.8

)

%

East

 

 

 

30,149

 

 

 

 

29,306

 

 

 

 

843

 

 

 

2.9

 

%

Total Non-gaming

 

 

 

139,545

 

 

 

 

79,238

 

 

 

 

60,307

 

 

 

76.1

 

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Marketing and promotions

 

 

 

40,600

 

 

 

 

31,227

 

 

 

 

9,373

 

 

 

30.0

 

%

General and administrative

 

 

 

130,172

 

 

 

 

96,870

 

 

 

 

33,302

 

 

 

34.4

 

%

Corporate

 

 

 

19,880

 

 

 

 

16,469

 

 

 

 

3,411

 

 

 

20.7

 

%

Depreciation and amortization

 

 

 

63,449

 

 

 

 

56,921

 

 

 

 

6,528

 

 

 

11.5

 

%

Total Operating Expenses

 

$

 

793,758

 

 

$

 

648,270

 

 

$

 

145,488

 

 

 

22.4

 

%

Gaming Revenues and Pari-Mutuel Commissions.  West gaming revenues increased 132.4% in 2016 compared to 2015use of our brands. These revenue agreements typically include reimbursement of certain costs that we incur directly. Such costs are primarily due to incremental gaming revenues attributable to the acquisition of the Reno properties combined with improvements in gaming revenues at Eldorado Reno. Gaming revenues in the South segment decreased 3.4% in 2016 compared to 2015 due to declines in casino volume primarily due to decreased high limit play and the continued weakness in the energy sector negatively impacting the Shreveport market. Gaming revenues and pari-mutuel commissions in the East segment declined 3.8% in 2016 compared to 2015 mainly due to lower gaming revenues at Mountaineer associated with the smoking ban that has negatively impacted the property’s operations. This decrease was partially offset by continued improvements in gaming revenues at Scioto Downs in 2016 compared to 2015, despite the $1.0 million impact of the progressive liability change related to prior years during the first quarter of 2016.


Non-gaming Revenues.  Non-gaming revenues increased 168.0% in 2016 compared to 2015 due to incremental non-gaming revenues consisting of food, beverage, hotel, entertainment, retail and other revenues in the West segment primarily as a result of the acquisition of the Reno properties combined with an increase in non-gaming revenues at Eldorado Reno. The South segment’s non-gaming revenues increased 1.8% in 2016 compared to 2015 mainly due to higher food and beverage revenues due to selective menu price increases and higher beverage complimentaries. The East segment posted a decrease in non-gaming revenues primarily due to the declines resulting from strategic changes in promotional offers along with additional volume declines at Mountaineer associated with the smoking ban impact.These decreases were partially offset by incremental non-gaming revenues at Scioto Downs in 2016 compared to 2015 attributable to the opening of The Brew Brothers in October 2015.

Promotional Allowances.  Promotional allowances, expressed as a percentage of gaming revenues and pari-mutuel commissions, increased to 12.9% in 2016 compared to 10.4% in 2015. In 2016, West promotional allowances, as a percentage of gaming revenues remained relatively flat to 2015 at 26.0%. South promotional allowances, as a percentage of gaming revenues, increased to 22.7% in 2016 from 21.0% in 2015 in conjunction with higher beverage complimentaries. The East segment’s promotional allowances in 2016 declined to 4.4% as a percentage of the segment’s gaming revenues and pari-mutuel commissions compared to 4.6% in 2015. Reductions in promotional allowances, as a percentage of gaming revenues and pari-mutuel commissions in the East segment, were due to continued strategic revisions to promotional offers in an effort to increase margins and maximize profitability.

Gaming Expenses and Pari-Mutuel Commissions.  West gaming expenses increased 140.1% in 2016 compared to 2015 primarily due to incremental gaming expenses as a result of the acquisition of the Reno properties along with an increase in gaming expenses at Eldorado Reno in conjunction with increased gaming revenues. South gaming expenses decreased 4.8% in 2016 compared to 2015 as a result of lower gaming revenues combined with efforts to reduce variable operating costs. The East segment’s gaming expenses and pari-mutuel commissions declined 3.8% in 2016 compared to 2015 primarily due lower gaming expenses commensurate with decreased gaming revenues.

Non-gaming Expenses. West non-gaming expenses increased 144.2% in 2016 compared to 2015. This growth was driven by higher West non-gaming expenses due to incremental expenses associated with the acquisition of the Reno properties. Non-gaming expenses in the South segment declined 9.8% mainly due to successful efforts to controlpayroll costs while the East segment’s non-gaming expenses increased 2.9% in 2016 compared to 2015 as a result of incremental volume generated by the addition of The Brew Brothers at Scioto Downs in October 2015.

Marketing and Promotions Expenses.  Consolidated marketing and promotions expense increased 30.0% in 2016 compared to 2015. This increase was primarily attributable to incremental expenses in the West segment associated with the acquisition of the Reno properties along with higher expenses associated with a shift in promotional spend in the East segment. These increases in the East segment were offset by a decline in the South segment due to efforts to reduce advertising and promotional costs to maximize profitability.

General and Administrative Expenses.  Total general and administrative expenses increased 34.4% in 2016 compared to 2015 primarily due to incremental expenses in the West segment resulting from the operationincurred on behalf of the properties purchasedunder management. The revenue related to these reimbursable management costs has a direct impact on our evaluation of Adjusted EBITDA margin which, when excluded, reflects margins typically realized from such agreements. The table below presents the amount included in the acquisition of the Reno properties offset by declines in the Southnet revenues and East segments duetotal operating expenses related to continued efforts to decrease variable expenses via cost savings initiatives.

Corporate Expenses.  Corporate expenses totaled $19.9 million in 2016 compared to $16.5 million in 2015. This increase was partially due to higher payroll related expenditures at the corporate level subsequent to the acquisition of the Reno properties in addition to an executive team restructuring that took place during the first quarter of 2016. This restructuring resulted in the reallocation of property executive management to corporate in order to more fully utilize their skills across defined regions. This increase was partially offset by declines in general and administrative costs at the property level in 2016 compared to 2015. Additionally, $1.5 million of severance costs werethese reimbursable costs. In September 2023, we recorded in 2016 along with $0.8$25 million of additional stock-based compensation expense as a result of severanceother revenue related restricted stock units becoming fully vested in 2016. Also, stock compensation expense was higher for in 2016 compared to 2015 due to our three year vesting schedule associated with our long-term incentive plan established in 2015 resulting in two years of grants expensed in 2016 versus one year of grants expensed in 2015.

Depreciation and Amortization Expense.  Total depreciation and amortization expense increased 11.5% in 2016 compared to 2015 mainly due to additional depreciation expense associated with acquired assets in conjunction with the acquisitiontermination of the Reno properties. The West, South and East segments contributed $20.2 million, $7.9 million and $34.9 million, respectively, of depreciation and amortization expense in 2016 compared to $9.5 million, $7.6 million and $39.3 million in 2015, respectively.

Caesars Dubai management agreement, which has been excluded from Adjusted EBITDA.

Years Ended December 31,VariancePercent ChangeVariancePercent Change
(Dollars in millions)2023202220212023 vs 20222022 vs 2021
Reimbursable management revenue$206 $198 $191 $4.0 %$3.7 %
Reimbursable management cost206 198 191 4.0 %3.7 %

Corporate & Other
Years Ended December 31,VariancePercent ChangeVariancePercent Change
(Dollars in millions)2023202220212023 vs 20222022 vs 2021
Revenues:
Casino$(3)$(3)$— $— — %$(3)*
Other— — %(6)(66.7)%
Net revenues$— $— $$— *$(9)(100.0)%
Adjusted EBITDA$(154)$(124)$(168)$(30)(24.2)%$44 26.2 %
___________________
*    Not meaningful.
Supplemental Unaudited Presentation of Consolidated Adjusted Earnings before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization (“Adjusted EBITDA”) for the Years Ended December 31, 20172023, 2022 and 2016

2021

Adjusted EBITDA (defined(described below), a non-GAAP financial measure, has been presented as a supplemental disclosure because it is a widely used measure of performance and basis for valuation of companies in our industry and we believe that this non-GAAP supplemental information will be helpful in understanding the Company’sour ongoing operating results. Management has historically used Adjusted EBITDA when evaluating operating performance because we believe that the inclusion or exclusion of certain recurring and non-recurring items is necessary to provide a full understanding of our core operating results and as a means to evaluate period-to-period results. Adjusted EBITDA represents operatingnet income (loss) before interest income or interest expense net of interest capitalized, (benefit) provision for income taxes, depreciation and amortization, stock basedstock-based compensation transaction expenses, S-1 expenses, severance expense, (gain) loss on extinguishment of debt, impairment charges, other (income) loss, net income related(loss) attributable to the termination of the Lake Charles sale,noncontrolling interests, transaction costs associated with our acquisitions, developments, and divestitures, and non-cash changes in equity method investments. Adjusted EBITDA also excludes the terminated Lake Charles sale, impairment charges, equityexpense associated with certain of our leases as these transactions were accounted for as financing obligations and the associated expense is included in income of unconsolidated affiliates, (gain) loss on the sale or disposal of property and equipment, and other regulatory gaming assessments, including the impact of the change in regulatory reporting requirements, to the extent that such items existed in the periods presented.interest expense. Adjusted EBITDA is not


a measure of performance or liquidity calculated in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“US GAAP”),GAAP. Adjusted EBITDA is unaudited and should not be considered an alternative to, or more meaningful than, net income (loss) as an indicator of our operating performance. Uses of cash flows that are not reflected in Adjusted EBITDA include capital expenditures, interest payments, income taxes, debt principal repayments, and certain regulatory gaming assessments,payments under our leases with affiliates of VICI Properties Inc. and GLPI, which can be significant. As a result, Adjusted EBITDA should not be considered as a measure of our liquidity. Other companies that provide EBITDA information may calculate Adjusted EBITDA differently than we do. The definition of Adjusted EBITDA may not be the same as the definitions used in any of our debt agreements.


The following table summarizes our Adjusted EBITDA for our operating segments for the years ended December 31, 20172023, 2022 and 2016,2021 in addition to reconciling net income (loss) to Adjusted EBITDA to operating income (loss) in accordance with US GAAP (unaudited,(unaudited):

Years Ended December 31,
(In millions)202320222021
Net income (loss) attributable to Caesars$786 $(899)$(1,019)
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests42 (11)
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes— 386 30 
Benefit for income taxes(888)(41)(283)
Other (income) loss (a)
(10)(46)198 
Loss on extinguishment of debt200 85 236 
Interest expense, net2,342 2,265 2,295 
Impairment charges95 108 102 
Depreciation and amortization1,261 1,205 1,126 
Transaction costs and other (b)
90 220 
Stock-based compensation expense104 101 82 
Adjusted EBITDA3,938 3,243 2,990 
Pre-consolidation, pre-acquisition, and pre-disposition EBITDA, net (c)
(15)(20)(23)
Total Adjusted EBITDA$3,923 $3,223 $2,967 
____________________
(a)Other (income) loss primarily includes the net changes in thousands):

 

 

Year Ended December 31, 2017

 

 

 

Operating

Income (Loss)

 

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

 

Stock-Based Compensation

 

 

Transaction Expenses (5)

 

 

Other (6)

 

 

Adjusted

EBITDA

 

Excluding Pre-Acquisition:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

West

 

$

 

66,329

 

 

$

 

26,950

 

 

$

 

182

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

364

 

 

$

 

93,825

 

Midwest

 

 

 

62,051

 

 

 

 

20,997

 

 

 

 

210

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

193

 

 

 

 

83,451

 

South

 

 

 

3,671

 

 

 

 

25,307

 

 

 

 

147

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

41,144

 

 

 

 

70,269

 

East

 

 

 

67,968

 

 

 

 

30,517

 

 

 

 

14

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

369

 

 

 

 

98,868

 

Corporate and Other

 

 

 

(105,150

)

 

 

 

2,120

 

 

 

 

5,769

 

 

 

 

92,777

 

 

 

 

(19,689

)

 

 

 

(24,173

)

Total Excluding Pre-Acquisition

 

$

 

94,869

 

 

$

 

105,891

 

 

$

 

6,322

 

 

$

 

92,777

 

 

$

 

22,381

 

 

$

 

322,240

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pre-Acquisition (1):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

West

 

$

 

9,525

 

 

$

 

3,694

 

 

$

 

8

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

4

 

 

$

 

13,231

 

Midwest

 

 

 

34,819

 

 

 

 

11,952

 

 

 

 

51

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

34

 

 

 

 

46,856

 

South

 

 

 

25,086

 

 

 

 

5,693

 

 

 

 

35

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

184

 

 

 

 

30,998

 

East

 

 

 

(1,072

)

 

 

 

952

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(120

)

Corporate and Other

 

 

 

(8,811

)

 

 

 

371

 

 

 

 

1,631

 

 

 

 

286

 

 

 

 

527

 

 

 

 

(5,996

)

Total Pre-Acquisition

 

$

 

59,547

 

 

$

 

22,662

 

 

$

 

1,725

 

 

$

 

286

 

 

$

 

749

 

 

$

 

84,969

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Including Pre-Acquisition:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

West

 

$

 

75,854

 

 

$

 

30,644

 

 

$

 

190

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

368

 

 

$

 

107,056

 

Midwest

 

 

 

96,870

 

 

 

 

32,949

 

 

 

 

261

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

227

 

 

 

 

130,307

 

South

 

 

 

28,757

 

 

 

 

31,000

 

 

 

 

182

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

41,328

 

 

 

 

101,267

 

East

 

 

 

66,896

 

 

 

 

31,469

 

 

 

 

14

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

369

 

 

 

 

98,748

 

Corporate and Other

 

 

 

(113,961

)

 

 

 

2,491

 

 

 

 

7,400

 

 

 

 

93,063

 

 

 

 

(19,162

)

 

 

 

(30,169

)

Total Including Pre-Acquisition (2)

 

$

 

154,416

 

 

$

 

128,553

 

 

$

 

8,047

 

 

$

 

93,063

 

 

$

 

23,130

 

 

$

 

407,209

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31, 2016

 

 

 

Operating

Income (Loss)

 

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

 

Stock-Based Compensation

 

 

Transaction Expenses (5)

 

 

Other (6)

 

 

Adjusted

EBITDA

 

Excluding Pre-Acquisition:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

West

 

$

 

41,620

 

 

$

 

20,220

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

493

 

 

$

 

62,333

 

Midwest

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

South

 

 

 

23,378

 

 

 

 

7,861

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(41

)

 

 

 

31,198

 

East

 

 

 

53,610

 

 

 

 

34,887

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,338

 

 

 

 

89,835

 

Corporate and Other

 

 

 

(29,490

)

 

 

 

481

 

 

 

 

3,341

 

 

 

 

9,182

 

 

 

 

1,406

 

 

 

 

(15,080

)

Total Excluding Pre-Acquisition

 

$

 

89,118

 

 

$

 

63,449

 

 

$

 

3,341

 

 

$

 

9,182

 

 

$

 

3,196

 

 

$

 

168,286

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pre-Acquisition (3):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

West

 

$

 

25,682

 

 

$

 

8,901

 

 

$

 

38

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

34,621

 

Midwest

 

 

 

84,265

 

 

 

 

38,720

 

 

 

 

166

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(247

)

 

 

 

122,904

 

South

 

 

 

49,112

 

 

 

 

23,793

 

 

 

 

118

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

533

 

 

 

 

73,556

 

East

 

 

 

(4,687

)

 

 

 

3,565

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1,122

)

Corporate and Other

 

 

 

(34,213

)

 

 

 

1,319

 

 

 

 

4,670

 

 

 

 

3,852

 

 

 

 

870

 

 

 

 

(23,502

)

Total Pre-Acquisition

 

$

 

120,159

 

 

$

 

76,298

 

 

$

 

4,992

 

 

$

 

3,852

 

 

$

 

1,156

 

 

$

 

206,457

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Including Pre-Acquisition:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

West

 

$

 

67,302

 

 

$

 

29,121

 

 

$

 

38

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

493

 

 

$

 

96,954

 

Midwest

 

 

 

84,265

 

 

 

 

38,720

 

 

 

 

166

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(247

)

 

 

 

122,904

 

South

 

 

 

72,490

 

 

 

 

31,654

 

 

 

 

118

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

492

 

 

 

 

104,754

 

East (4)

 

 

 

48,923

 

 

 

 

38,452

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,338

 

 

 

 

88,713

 

Corporate and Other

 

 

 

(63,703

)

 

 

 

1,800

 

 

 

 

8,011

 

 

 

 

13,034

 

 

 

 

2,276

 

 

 

 

(38,582

)

Total Including Pre-Acquisition (2)

 

$

 

209,277

 

 

$

 

139,747

 

 

$

 

8,333

 

 

$

 

13,034

 

 

$

 

4,352

 

 

$

 

374,743

 


fair value of (i) investments held by the Company, (ii) foreign exchange forward contracts, (iii) a disputed claims liability, and (iv) the derivative liability related to the 5% convertible notes, which were fully converted during the year ended December 31, 2021, and the change in the foreign exchange rate associated with restricted cash held in GBP associated with our acquisition of William Hill.

(1)

Figures for Isle are the four months ended April 30, 2017, the day before the we acquired Isle on May 1, 2017. We report our financial results on a calendar fiscal year. Prior to our acquisition of Isle, Isle’s fiscal year typically ended on the last Sunday in April. Isle’s fiscal 2017 and 2016 were 52-week years, which commenced on April 25, 2016 and April 27, 2015, respectively. Such figures were prepared by us to reflect Isle’s unaudited consolidated historical net revenues and Adjusted EBITDA for periods corresponding to our fiscal quarterly calendar. Such figures are based on the unaudited internal financial statements and have not been reviewed by our auditors and do not conform to GAAP.

(b)Transaction costs and other primarily includes (i) net proceeds received in exchange for participation rights in a potential insurance recovery, (ii) proceeds received for the termination of the Caesars Dubai management agreement, (iii) insurance proceeds received in excess of the respective carrying value of damaged assets associated with the Lake Charles property, (iv) costs related to non-cash losses on the write down and disposal of assets, professional services for transaction and integration costs, various contract exit or termination costs, and pre-opening costs in connection with new temporary facility openings, and (v) non-cash changes in equity method investments.

(2)

Total figures for 2016 and 2017 include combined results of operations for Isle and us for periods preceding the date that we acquired Isle. Such presentation does not conform with GAAP or the Securities and Exchange Commission rules for pro forma presentation; however, we believe that the additional financial information will be helpful to investors in comparing current results with results of prior periods. This is non-GAAP data and should not be considered a substitute for data prepared in accordance with GAAP, but should be viewed in addition to the results of operations reported by us.

(c)Results of operations for Horseshoe Baltimore prior to its consolidation on August 26, 2021 and William Hill prior to its acquisition on April 22, 2021 are added to Adjusted EBITDA. The results of operations of divested properties prior to their respective divestiture dates are subtracted from Adjusted EBITDA. See Item 7 - Overview above. Such figures are based on unaudited internal financial statements and have not been reviewed by the Company’s auditors for the periods presented. The additional financial information is included to enable the comparison of current results with results of prior periods.

(3)

Figures are for Isle for the year ended December 31, 2016. Such figures were prepared by us to reflect Isle’s unaudited consolidated historical net revenues, operating income and Adjusted EBITDA for periods corresponding to our fiscal quarterly calendar. Such figures are based on the unaudited internal financial statements and have not been reviewed by our auditors and do not conform to GAAP.

(4)

Effective January 1, 2016, the Ohio Lottery Commission enacted a regulatory change which resulted in the establishment of a $1.0 million progressive slot liability and a corresponding decrease in net slot win during the first quarter of 2016. The changes are non-cash and related primarily to prior years. The net non-cash impact to Adjusted EBITDA was $0.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2016.

(5)

Transaction expenses represent costs related to the acquisition of Isle for the year ended December 31, 2017. Transaction expenses for the year ended December 31, 2016 represent costs related to the acquisitions of Isle and the Reno properties and S-1 expenses.

(6)

Other is comprised of severance expense, income totaling $20.0 million related to the termination of the Lake Charles sale, costs totaling $2.8 million associated with the termination of the Lake Charles sale, $38.0 million in impairment charges, (gain) loss on sale or disposal of property and equipment, equity in income of unconsolidated affiliate and other regulatory gaming assessments, including the item listed in footnote (4) above.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

We are a holding company and our only significant assets are ownership interests in our subsidiaries. Our ability to fund our obligations depends on theexisting cash flow ofon hand, cash flows from our subsidiaries and theour ability of our subsidiaries to distribute or otherwise make funds available to us.

raise capital. Our primary sources of liquidity and capital resources have beenare existing cash on hand, cash flowflows from operations, availability of borrowings under our revolving credit facility, and proceeds from the issuance of debt securities. We closed on our acquisition of Isle on May 1, 2017 and paid $552.0 million in cash consideration on our acquisition of Isle, refinanced the outstanding Isle indebtednessequity securities and paid acquisition expenses.

proceeds from completed asset sales. Our cash requirements canmay fluctuate significantly depending on our decisions with respect to business acquisitions or dispositionsdivestitures and strategic capital investmentsand marketing investments.



As of December 31, 2023, our cash on hand and revolving borrowing capacity were as follows:
(In millions)December 31, 2023
Cash and cash equivalents$1,005 
Revolver capacity (a)
2,210 
Revolver capacity committed to letters of credit(70)
Revolver capacity committed as regulatory requirement(46)
Total$3,099 
___________________
(a)Revolver capacity includes $2.25 billion under our CEI Revolving Credit Facility, maturing in January 2028, less $40 million reserved for specific purposes.
During the year ended December 31, 2023, our operating activities generated operating cash inflows of $1.8 billion, as compared to maintainoperating cash inflows of $1.0 billion during the qualityyear ended December 31, 2022 due to the results of operations described above.
On February 6, 2023, we entered into an Incremental Assumption Agreement No. 2 pursuant to which we incurred a new senior secured term loan facility in an aggregate principal amount of $2.5 billion (the “CEI Term Loan B” and, together with the CEI Term Loan A, the “CEI Term Loans”) as a new term loan under the CEI Credit Agreement. The CEI Term Loan B requires scheduled quarterly principal payments in amounts equal to 0.25% of the original aggregate principal amount of the CEI Term Loan B, with the balance payable at maturity. Borrowings under the CEI Term Loan B bear interest, paid monthly, at a rate equal to, at our properties. option, either (a) a forward-looking term rate based on the Adjusted Term SOFR, subject to a floor of 0.50% or (b) a base rate (the “TLB Base Rate”) determined by reference to the highest of (i) the “Prime Rate” in the United States, (ii) the federal funds rate plus 0.50% per annum and (iii) the one-month Adjusted Term SOFR plus 1.00% per annum, in each case, plus an applicable margin. Such applicable margin is 3.25% per annum in the case of any Adjusted Term SOFR loan and 2.25% per annum in the case of any TLB Base Rate loan, subject to one 0.25% step-down based on our net total leverage ratio. The CEI Term Loan B was issued at a price of 99.0% of the principal amount and will mature in February 2030.
On February 6, 2023, concurrently with the issuance of the CEI Term Loan B, we issued $2.0 billion in aggregate principal amount of 7.00% senior secured notes (the “CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2030”) pursuant to an indenture by and among the Company, the subsidiary guarantors party thereto from time to time, U.S. Bank Trust Company, National Association, as trustee, and U.S. Bank National Association, as collateral agent. The CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2030 rank equally with all existing and future first-priority lien obligations of the Company and the subsidiary guarantors. The CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2030 will mature in February 2030, with interest paid semi-annually on February 15 and August 15 of each year, commencing August 15, 2023.
The net proceeds from the CEI Term Loan B, along with the net proceeds from the issuance of the CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2030 described above, were used to repay the outstanding principal balance, including accrued and unpaid interest, of both the CRC Term Loan and the CRC Incremental Term Loan. Upon the termination of the CRC Term Loan and the CRC Incremental Term Loan, we recorded a loss on extinguishment of debt of $197 million.
On May 1, 2023, we elected to prepay the outstanding $400 million Convention Center Mortgage Loan utilizing cash on hand.
On July 10, 2023, we completed the acquisition of the remaining 24.2% equity ownership in Horseshoe Baltimore, utilizing cash on hand, for a total of $66 million. On July 17, 2023, we permanently repaid the outstanding principal balance of the Baltimore Term Loan. In connection with the repayment, we recognized a $3 million loss on the early extinguishment of debt.
On February 6, 2024, we entered into an Incremental Assumption Agreement No. 3 pursuant to which we incurred a new senior secured incremental term loan in an aggregate principal amount of $2.9 billion (the “CEI Term Loan B-1”) under the CEI Credit Agreement. The CEI Term Loan B-1 requires quarterly principal payments in amounts equal to 0.25% of the original aggregate principal amount of the CEI Term Loan B-1, with the balance payable at maturity. Borrowings under the CEI Term Loan B-1 bear interest at a rate equal to, at our option, either (a) a forward-looking term rate based on the Term SOFR, subject to a floor of 0.50% or (b) a base rate (the “TLB-1 Base Rate”) determined by reference to the highest of (i) the “Prime Rate” in the United States, (ii) the federal funds rate plus 0.50% per annum and (iii) the one-month Term SOFR plus 1.00% per annum, in each case, plus an applicable margin. Such applicable margin is 2.75% per annum in the case of any Term SOFR loan and 1.75% per annum in the case of any TLB-1 Base Rate loan. The CEI Term Loan B-1 was issued at a price of 99.75% of the principal amount and will mature on February 6, 2031.


Additionally, on February 6, 2024, we issued $1.5 billion in aggregate principal amount of 6.50% senior secured notes due 2032 (the “CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2032”) pursuant to an indenture by and among the Company, the subsidiary guarantors party thereto, U.S. Bank Trust Company, National Association, as trustee, and U.S. Bank National Association, as collateral agent. The CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2032 rank equally with all existing and future first-priority lien obligations of the Company and the subsidiary guarantors. The CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2032 will mature on February 15, 2032, with interest paid semi-annually on February 15 and August 15 of each year, commencing August 15, 2024.
The net proceeds from the issuance of the CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2032 and the net proceeds from the CEI Term Loan B-1, together with borrowings under the CEI Revolving Credit Facility, were used to tender, redeem, repurchase, defease, and/or satisfy and discharge any and all of the principal amounts, including accrued and unpaid interest, related expenses and fees of both the 5.75% Senior Secured Notes due 2025 (the “CRC Senior Secured Notes”) and the 6.25% Senior Secured Notes due 2025 (the “CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2025”). As a result of these transactions, we estimate that we will incur approximately $50 million of loss on early extinguishment of debt.
We expect that our primary capital requirements going forward will relate to the operationexpansion and maintenance of our properties, andtaxes, servicing our outstanding indebtedness. In 2018, we plan to spend $150.0 million onindebtedness, and rent payments under our GLPI Master Lease, the VICI Leases and other leases. We make capital expenditures and $115.4 millionperform continuing refurbishment and maintenance at our properties to pay cash interest onmaintain our quality standards. Our capital expenditure requirements for 2024 include expansion projects, hotel renovations and continued investment into new markets with our Caesars Sportsbook and iGaming applications in our Caesars Digital segment. In addition, we may, from time to time, seek to repurchase or prepay our outstanding indebtedness. Any such purchases or prepayments may be funded by existing cash balances or the incurrence of debt. The amount and timing of any repurchase will be based on business and market conditions, capital availability, compliance with debt covenants and other considerations.
We have agreements with certain professional sports leagues and teams, sporting event facilities and media companies for tickets, suites, and advertising, marketing, promotional and sponsorship opportunities including communication with partner customer databases. Additionally, a selection of such partnerships provide us with exclusivity to access the aforementioned rights within the casino and/or sports betting category. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, obligations related to these agreements were $605 million and $898 million, respectively, with contracts extending through 2040. These obligations include leasing of event suites that are generally considered short term leases for which we do not record a right of use asset or lease liability. We recognize expenses in the period services are received in accordance with the various agreements. In addition, assets or liabilities may be recorded related to the timing of payments as required by the respective agreement.
We continue to expand into new markets with projects such as our partnership with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians to build and develop Caesars Virginia which is estimated to open a permanent facility in late 2024. The permanent development has a budget of $650 million and is expected to include a premier destination resort casino along with a 320-room hotel and world-class casino floor including 1,300 slot machines, 85 live table games, a WSOP Poker Room, a Caesars Sportsbook, a live entertainment theater and 40,000 square feet of meeting and convention space. Additionally, we are developing Harrah’s Columbus Nebraska which is a casino development expected to feature a new one-mile horse racing surface, a 40,000-square-foot-casino and sportsbook with more than 400 slot machines and 20 table games, as well as a restaurant and retail space, with an official opening in the second quarter of 2024. In the second quarter of 2023, temporary gaming facilities for Caesars Virginia and Harrah’s Columbus Nebraska opened while the permanent facilities are being constructed.
In 2020, we funded $400 million into escrow for a three year capital expenditure plan in the state of New Jersey. The capital plan included significant room renovations at both Caesars Atlantic City and Harrah’s Atlantic City, as well as the addition of new restaurants with celebrity partners. During the year ended December 31, 2023, we met our commitment and exhausted the remaining funds in the escrow account.
As a condition of the extension of the casino operating contract and ground lease for Harrah’s New Orleans, we are also required to make a capital investment of $325 million on or around Harrah’s New Orleans by July 15, 2024. The capital investment involves the rebranding of the property to Caesars New Orleans which includes a renovation and full interior and exterior redesign, an updated casino floor, new culinary experiences and a new 340-room hotel tower. The project has a current capital plan of approximately $430 million and, as of December 31, 2023, total capital expenditures have been $289 million since the project began.


Cash used for capital expenditures totaled $1.3 billion, $952 million and $520 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, related to our growth, renovation, maintenance, and other capital projects. The following table summarizes our estimates for 2024 capital expenditures:
(In millions)LowHigh
Growth and renovation projects$325 $375 
Caesars Digital95 115 
Maintenance projects300 400 
Total estimated capital expenditures from unrestricted cash720 890 
Caesars Virginia (a)
300 350 
Total$1,020 $1,240 
___________________
(a)We expect the joint venture to enter into a new credit facility, of approximately $375 million to $425 million, to fund future Caesars Virginia capital expenditures alongside ongoing cash flows from the temporary casino’s operations.
A significant portion of our liquidity needs are for debt service and payments associated with our leases. Our estimated debt service (including principal and interest) is approximately $915 million for 2024. We also lease certain real property assets from third parties, including VICI and GLPI. The VICI Leases are subject to annual escalations, that take effect in November of each year, based on the CPI. We estimate our lease payments to VICI and GLPI to be approximately $1.3 billion for 2024.
We have periodically divested assets to raise capital or, in previous cases, to comply with conditions, terms, obligations or restrictions imposed by antitrust, gaming and other regulatory entities. If an agreed upon selling price for future divestitures does not exceed the carrying value of the assets, we may be required to record additional impairment charges in future periods which may be material.
We expect that our current liquidity, including availability of borrowings under our committed credit facility and cash generatedflows from operations will be sufficient to fund our operations, and capital requirements and service our outstanding indebtedness for the next twelve months.

At

Debt and Master Lease Covenant Compliance
The Senior Credit Facilities, the CEI Term Loan B, and the indentures governing the CRC Senior Secured Notes, the CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2025, the CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2030, the CEI Senior Notes due 2027, and the CEI Senior Notes due 2029 contain covenants which are standard and customary for these types of agreements. These include negative covenants, which, subject to certain exceptions and baskets, limit our ability to (among other items) incur additional indebtedness, make investments, make restricted payments, including dividends, grant liens, sell assets and make acquisitions.
Following the Third Amendment, the Amended CEI Revolving Credit Facility and the CEI Term Loan A include a maximum net total leverage ratio financial covenant of 7.25:1 until December 31, 2017, we had consolidated cash2024 and cash equivalents of $134.6 million. At6.50:1 from and after December 31, 2016,2024. In addition, the Amended CEI Revolving Credit Facility and the CEI Term Loan A include a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio financial covenant of 1.75:1 until December 31, 2024 and 2.0:1 from and after December 31, 2024. From and after the repayment of the CEI Term Loan A, the financial covenants applicable to the Amended CEI Revolving Credit Facility will be tested solely to the extent that certain testing conditions are satisfied. Failure to comply with such covenants could result in an acceleration of the maturity of indebtedness outstanding under the relevant debt document. As of December 31, 2023, we had consolidated cashwere not subject to any debt covenants with respect to the new CEI Term Loan B-1 or the CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2032.
The GLPI Leases and cash equivalentsVICI Leases contain certain covenants requiring minimum capital expenditures based on a percentage of $61.0 million. This increasenet revenues along with maintaining certain financial ratios.
As of December 31, 2023, we were in cash was primarily relatedcompliance with all of the applicable financial covenants described above.
Share Repurchase Program
In November 2018, the Board authorized a $150 million common stock repurchase program (the “Share Repurchase Program”) pursuant to cashwhich we may, from time to time, repurchase shares of common stock on the open market (either with or without a 10b5-1 plan) or through privately negotiated transactions. The Share Repurchase Program has no time limit and may be suspended or discontinued at any time without notice. There is no minimum number of shares of common stock that we are required to repurchase under the Share Repurchase Program.


As of December 31, 2023, we have acquired 223,823 shares of common stock at an aggregate value of $9 million and an average of $40.80 per share. No shares were repurchased during the years ended December 31, 2023 or 2022.
Debt Obligations and Leases
CEI Term Loans and CEI Revolving Credit Facility
CEI is party to a credit agreement, dated as of July 20, 2020, with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, U.S. Bank National Association, as collateral agent, and certain banks and other financial institutions and lenders party thereto (the “CEI Credit Agreement”), which, as amended, provides for the CEI Revolving Credit Facility in our acquisitionan aggregate principal amount of Isle.

Operating Cash Flow.  In 2017, cash flows provided by operating activities totaled $130.2$2.25 billion (the “CEI Revolving Credit Facility”). The CEI Revolving Credit Facility contains reserves of $40 million comparedwhich are available only for certain permitted uses.

On October 5, 2022, Caesars entered into a third amendment to $97.6the CEI Credit Agreement (the “Third Amendment”) pursuant to which we (a) incurred a senior secured term loan in an aggregate principal amount of $750 million in 2016. The increase in operating cash was primarily due(the “CEI Term Loan A”) as a new term loan under the credit agreement, (b) amended and extended the CEI Revolving Credit Facility under the CEI Credit Agreement (the CEI Revolving Credit Facility, as so amended, the “Amended CEI Revolving Credit Facility” and, together with the CEI Term Loan A, the “Senior Credit Facilities”), (c) increased the aggregate principal amount of the CEI Revolving Credit Facility to incremental operating cash generated by$2.25 billion, and (d) made certain other amendments to the acquired Isle properties offset by transaction expenses associated with our acquisition of Isle combined with changesCEI Credit Agreement. Both the Amended CEI Revolving Credit Facility and the new CEI Term Loan A mature on January 31, 2028, subject to a springing maturity in the event certain other long-term debt of Caesars is not extended or repaid. The Amended CEI Revolving Credit Facility includes a letter of credit sub-facility of $388 million. The CEI Term Loan A requires scheduled quarterly payments in amounts equal to 1.25% of the original aggregate principal amount of the CEI Term Loan A, with the balance sheet accountspayable at maturity. We may make voluntary prepayments of the CEI Term Loan A at any time prior to maturity at par.
Borrowings under the Senior Credit Facilities bear interest, paid monthly, at a rate equal to, at our option, either (a) a forward-looking term rate based on Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“Term SOFR”) for the applicable interest period plus an adjustment of 0.10% per annum (“Adjusted Term SOFR”), subject to a floor of 0% or (b) a base rate (the “Base Rate”) determined by reference to the highest of (i) the rate of interest per annum last quoted by The Wall Street Journal as the “Prime Rate” in the normal courseUnited States, (ii) the federal funds rate plus 0.50% per annum and (iii) the one-month Adjusted Term SOFR plus 1.00% per annum, in each case, plus an applicable margin. Such applicable margin is 2.25% per annum in the case of business.

any Adjusted Term SOFR loan and 1.25% per annum in the case of any Base Rate loan, subject to three 0.25% step-downs based on our net total leverage ratio. In 2016,addition, on a quarterly basis, we generated cash flowsare required to pay each lender under the Amended CEI Revolving Credit Facility a commitment fee in respect of any unused commitments under the Amended CEI Revolving Credit Facility in the amount of 0.35% per annum of the principal amount of the unused commitments of such lender, subject to three 0.05% step-downs based on our net total leverage ratio.

On February 6, 2023, Caesars entered into an Incremental Assumption Agreement No. 2 pursuant to which we incurred a new senior secured term loan facility in an aggregate principal amount of $2.5 billion (the “CEI Term Loan B” and, together with the CEI Term Loan A, the “CEI Term Loans”) as a new term loan under the CEI Credit Agreement. The CEI Term Loan B requires scheduled quarterly principal payments in amounts equal to 0.25% of the original aggregate principal amount of the CEI Term Loan B, with the balance payable at maturity. Borrowings under the CEI Term Loan B bear interest, paid monthly, at a rate equal to, at the our option, either (a) a forward-looking term rate based on the Adjusted Term SOFR, subject to a floor of 0.50% or (b) a base rate (the “TLB Base Rate”) determined by reference to the highest of (i) the “Prime Rate” in the United States, (ii) the federal funds rate plus 0.50% per annum and (iii) the one-month Adjusted Term SOFR plus 1.00% per annum, in each case, plus an applicable margin. Such applicable margin is 3.25% per annum in the case of any Adjusted Term SOFR loan and 2.25% per annum in the case of any TLB Base Rate loan, subject to one 0.25% step-down based on our net total leverage ratio. The CEI Term Loan B was issued at a price of 99.0% of the principal amount and will mature in February 2030.
The net proceeds from operating activities of $97.6 million as compared to $56.7 million in 2015. The increase in operating cash was primarily associated with improvements in operationsthe CEI Term Loan B, along with incremental cash flow associated with the acquisition of the Reno properties, the refinancing of our debt resulting in lower interest expense and various changes in the balance sheet accounts in the normal course of business.


Investing Cash Flow and Capital Expenditures.  Net cash flows used in investing activities totaled $1.4 billion in 2017 compared to $41.1 million in 2016. Net cash flows used in investing activities in 2017 were primarily due to cash paid to acquire Isle in addition to $83.5 million in capital expenditures for various property enhancement and maintenance projects and equipment purchases partially offset by $0.4 million in reimbursementsnet proceeds from West Virginia.

Net cash flows used in investing activities totaled $41.1 million in 2016 and primarily consisted of $47.4 million in capital expenditures for various property enhancement and maintenance projects and equipment purchases partially offset by West Virginia’s reimbursement of capital expenditures totaling $4.2 million.

Financing Cash Flow.  Net cash used for financing activities in 2017 totaled $1.4 billion and consisted mainly of the issuance of debt associated with our acquisitionthe CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2030 described below, were used to repay the outstanding principal balance, including accrued and unpaid interest, of Isle,both the refinancing of our term loan and revolving credit facility in May 2017CRC Term Loan and the CRC Incremental Term Loan.

During the year ended December 31, 2023, we utilized and fully repaid the CEI Revolving Credit Facility. Such activity is presented in the financing section in the Statements of Cash Flows. As of December 31, 2023, we had $2.1 billion of available borrowing capacity under the CEI Revolving Credit Facility, after consideration of $70 million in outstanding letters of credit, $46 million committed for regulatory purposes and the reserves described above.


Subsequent Amendment to the CEI Credit Agreement and issuance of additional 6%New Senior Secured Notes in September 2017. This increase was partially offset by net payments made on our credit facilities throughout 2017 and taxes paid related
On February 6, 2024, we entered into an Incremental Assumption Agreement No. 3 pursuant to net share settlements of equity awards associated with the Isle transaction.

Net cash used for financing activities in 2016 totaled $73.7 million and consisted primarily of net payments totaling $64.5 million on the revolving credit facility and $4.3 million payments under thewhich we incurred a new senior secured incremental term loan in 2016. Additionally, $4.3 million was paidan aggregate principal amount of $2.9 billion (the “CEI Term Loan B-1”) under the CEI Credit Agreement. The CEI Term Loan B-1 requires quarterly principal payments in 2016 for debt issuance costs comprisedamounts equal to 0.25% of $3.6 million relatedthe original aggregate principal amount of the CEI Term Loan B-1, with the balance payable at maturity. Borrowings under the CEI Term Loan B-1 bear interest at a rate equal to, at our acquisitionoption, either (a) a forward-looking term rate based on the Term SOFR, subject to a floor of Isle and $0.7 million related0.50% or (b) a base rate (the “TLB-1 Base Rate”) determined by reference to the acquisitionhighest of (i) the “Prime Rate” in the United States, (ii) the federal funds rate plus 0.50% per annum and (iii) the one-month Term SOFR plus 1.00% per annum, in each case, plus an applicable margin. Such applicable margin is 2.75% per annum in the case of any Term SOFR loan and 1.75% per annum in the case of any TLB-1 Base Rate loan. The CEI Term Loan B-1 was issued at a price of 99.75% of the Reno properties.

Debt Obligations

7% Senior Notes

On July 23, 2015,principal amount and will mature on February 6, 2031.

Additionally, on February 6, 2024, we issued at par $375.0 million$1.5 billion in aggregate principal amount of 7.0%6.50% of senior secured notes due 2023 (“7%2032 (the “CEI Senior Notes”Secured Notes due 2032”) pursuant to an indenture by and among the Company, the subsidiary guarantors party thereto, U.S. Bank Trust Company, National Association, as trustee, and U.S. Bank National Association, as collateral agent. The CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2032 rank equally with all existing and future first-priority lien obligations of the Company and the subsidiary guarantors. The CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2032 will mature on February 15, 2032, with interest paid semi-annually on February 15 and August 15 of each year, commencing August 15, 2024.
The net proceeds from the issuance of the CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2032 and the net proceeds from the CEI Term Loan B-1, together with borrowings under the CEI Revolving Credit Facility, were used to tender, redeem, repurchase, defease, and/or satisfy and discharge any and all of the principal amounts, including accrued and unpaid interest, related expenses and fees of both the 5.75% Senior Secured Notes due 2025 (the “CRC Senior Secured Notes”) and the 6.25% Senior Secured Notes due 2025 (the “CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2025”). As a result of these transactions, we estimate that it will incur approximately $50 million of loss on early extinguishment of debt.
CRC Senior Secured Notes due 2025
On July 6, 2020, Colt Merger Sub, Inc. (the “Escrow Issuer”) issued $1.0 billion in aggregate principal amount of the CRC Senior Secured Notes pursuant to an indenture, dated July 6, 2020, by and among the Escrow Issuer, U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee and Credit Suisse AG, Cayman Islands Branch, as collateral agent. The CRC Senior Secured Notes ranked equally with all existing and future first priority lien obligations of CRC, CRC Finco, Inc. and the subsidiary guarantors. The CRC Senior Secured Notes were set to mature on July 1, 2025 with interest payable semi-annually in cash in arrears on January 1 and July 1 of each year.
On February 16, 2024, we completed the tender and/or redemption of the CRC Senior Secured Notes with proceeds from a new CEI Term Loan B-1, new CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2032, and borrowings under the CEI Revolving Credit Facility, as needed. See “Subsequent Amendment to the CEI Credit Agreement and issuance of New Senior Secured Notes” above.
CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2025
On July 6, 2020, the Escrow Issuer issued $3.4 billion in aggregate principal amount of the CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2025 pursuant to an indenture, dated July 6, 2020, by and among the Escrow Issuer, U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee, and U.S. Bank National Association, as collateral agent. The CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2025 ranked equally with all existing and future first-priority lien obligations of the Company and the subsidiary guarantors. The CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2025 were set to mature on July 1, 2025 with interest payable semi-annually in cash in arrears on January 1 and July 1 of each year. On April 5, 2023, we purchased $1 million in principal amount of the CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2025.
On February 7, 2024, we completed the tender, redemption, and/or satisfaction and discharge of the CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2025 with proceeds from a new CEI Term Loan B-1, new CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2032, and borrowings under the CEI Revolving Credit Facility, as needed. See “Subsequent Amendment to the CEI Credit Agreement and issuance of New Senior Secured Notes” above.


CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2030
On February 6, 2023, concurrently with the issuance of the CEI Term Loan B, we issued $2.0 billion in aggregate principal amount of 7.00% senior secured notes (the “CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2030”) pursuant to an indenture by and among the Company, the subsidiary guarantors party thereto from time to time, U.S. Bank Trust Company, National Association, as trustee, and U.S. Bank National Association, as collateral agent. The CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2030 rank equally with all existing and future first-priority lien obligations of the Company and the subsidiary guarantors. The CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2030 will mature in February 2030, with interest paid semi-annually on February 15 and August 15 of each year, commencing August 15, 2023.
Baltimore Term Loan and Baltimore Revolving Credit Facility
On July 17, 2023, following the acquisition of the remaining 24.2% equity interest in Horseshoe Baltimore, we permanently repaid the outstanding principal balance of Horseshoe Baltimore’s senior secured term loan facility (the “Baltimore Term Loan”). In connection with the repayment, we recognized a $3 million loss on the early extinguishment of debt. The Baltimore Term Loan was subject to a variable rate of interest calculated as London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus 4.00% until May 1, 2023, when the Baltimore Term Loan’s benchmark interest rate was amended from LIBOR to the Adjusted Term SOFR plus an applicable adjustment. In addition, Horseshoe Baltimore’s senior secured revolving credit facility (the “Baltimore Revolving Credit Facility”) matured on July 7, 2023. The Baltimore Revolving Credit Facility had borrowing capacity of up to $10 million, subject to a variable rate of interest calculated as Term SOFR plus 4.00%.
Convention Center Mortgage Loan
On September 18, 2020, we entered into a loan agreement with VICI, to borrow a 5-year, $400 million Forum Convention Center mortgage loan (the “Mortgage Loan”). The Mortgage Loan bears interest at a rate of, initially, 7.7% per annum, which was set to escalate annually on the anniversary of the closing date up to a maximum interest rate of 8.3% per annum. On May 1, 2023, we elected to prepay the outstanding $400 million Mortgage Loan utilizing cash on hand. In connection with the repayment, we extended VICI’s call right relating to the CAESARS FORUM convention center from December 31, 2026 to December 31, 2028.
CRC Term Loan and CRC Incremental Term Loan
Caesars Resort Collection (“CRC”) was party to a credit agreement, dated as of December 22, 2017 (as amended, the “CRC Credit Agreement”), which provided for, among other things, an initial $4.7 billion seven-year senior secured term loan (the “CRC Term Loan”), and an incremental $1.8 billion five-year senior secured term loan (the “CRC Incremental Term Loan”).
The CRC Term Loan and the CRC Incremental Term Loan were subject to the terms described below prior to repayment. We repaid the $3.4 billion outstanding principal amount of the CRC Term Loan and the $1.0 billion outstanding principal amount of the CRC Incremental Term Loan on February 6, 2023, with proceeds from a new CEI Term Loan B and new CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2030, both of which are described above. Upon the termination of the CRC Term Loan and the CRC Incremental Term Loan, we recorded a loss on extinguishment of debt of $197 million.
Borrowings under the CRC Credit Agreement were subject to interest at a rate equal to either (a) LIBOR adjusted for certain additional costs, subject to a floor of 0% or (b) a base rate determined by reference to the highest of (i) the federal funds rate plus 0.50%, (ii) the prime rate as determined by Credit Suisse AG, Cayman Islands Branch, as administrative agent under the CRC Credit Agreement and (iii) the one-month adjusted LIBOR rate plus 1.00%, in each case plus an applicable margin. Such applicable margin was (a) with respect to the CRC Term Loan, 2.75% per annum in the case of any LIBOR loan or 1.75% per annum in the case of any base rate loan and (b) with respect to the CRC Incremental Term Loan, 3.50% per annum in the case of any LIBOR loan or 2.50% in the case of any base rate loan.
CEI Senior Notes due 2027
On July 6, 2020, the Escrow Issuer issued $1.8 billion in aggregate principal amount of 8.125% Senior Notes due 2027 pursuant to an indenture, dated July 6, 2020 (the “CEI Senior Notes due 2027”), by and between the Escrow Issuer and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee. The CEI Senior Notes due 2027 rank equally with all existing and future senior unsecured indebtedness of the Company and the subsidiary guarantors. The CEI Senior Notes due 2027 will mature on July 1, 2027 with interest payable semi-annually in cash in arrears on January 1 and July 1 of each year.


CEI Senior Notes due 2029
On September 24, 2021, we issued $1.2 billion in aggregate principal amount of 4.625% Senior Notes due 2029 (the “CEI Senior Notes due 2029”) pursuant to an indenture dated as of July 23, 2015 (the “7% Senior Notes Indenture”),September 24, 2021 between us and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee.trustee. The 7%CEI Senior Notes due 2029 rank equally with all existing and future senior unsecured indebtedness of the Company and the subsidiary guarantors. The CEI Senior Notes due 2029 will mature on August 1, 2023,October 15, 2029 with interest payable semi-annually in arrears on February 1April 15 and August 1October 15 of each year.

On or after August 1, 2018,

VICI Leases
CEI leases certain real property assets from VICI under the following agreements: (i) for a portfolio of properties located throughout the United States (the “Regional Lease”), (ii) for Caesars Palace Las Vegas and Harrah’s Las Vegas (the “Las Vegas Lease”), and (iii) for Harrah’s Joliet (the “Joliet Lease”), collectively, VICI Leases. The lease agreements, inclusive of all amendments, include (i) a 15-year initial term with four five-year renewal options, (ii) initial annual fixed rent payments of $1.1 billion, subject to annual escalation provisions based on the CPI and a 2% floor which commenced in lease year two of the initial terms and (iii) a variable element based on net revenues of the underlying leased properties, commencing in lease year eight of the initial term.
The Regional Lease includes a Put-Call Right Agreement whereby we may redeem allrequire VICI to purchase and lease back (as lessor) or a portionwhereby VICI may require us to sell to VICI and lease back (as lessee) the real estate components of the 7% Senior Notes upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice, atgaming and racetrack facilities of Harrah’s Hoosier Park Racing & Casino and Horseshoe Indianapolis (the “Centaur properties”). Election to exercise the redemption prices (expressed as percentages of the principal amount) set forth below plus accrued and unpaid interest and additional interest, if any, on the 7% Senior Notes redeemed, to the applicable redemption date, if redeemedoption by either party must be made during the twelve monthelection period beginning on AugustJanuary 1, of2022 and ending December 31, 2024. Upon either party exercising their option, the years indicated below:

Year

 

Percentage

 

 

2018

 

 

105.250

 

%

2019

 

 

103.500

 

%

2020

 

 

101.750

 

%

2021 and thereafter

 

 

100.000

 

%

Prior to August 1, 2018, we may redeem all or a portion of the 7% Senior NotesCentaur properties would be sold at a price equaland leased back to 100%CEI in accordance to the terms and conditions of the 7% Senior Notes redeemed plus accruedPut-Call Right Agreement.

Our VICI Leases are accounted for as a financing obligation and unpaid interest to the redemption date, plus a make-whole premium. At any time prior to August 1, 2018, we are also entitled to redeem up to 35% of the original aggregate principal amount of the 7% Senior Notes with proceeds of certain equity financings at a redemption price equal to 107% of the principal amount of the 7% Senior Notes redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest. If we experience certain change of control events (as defined in the 7% Senior Notes Indenture), we must offer to repurchase the 7% Senior Notes at 101% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest to the applicable repurchase date. If we sell asset under certain circumstances and does not use the proceeds for specified purposes, we must offer to repurchase the 7% Senior Notes at 100% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest to the applicable repurchase date. The 7% Senior Notes are subject to redemption imposed by gaming laws and regulations of applicable gaming regulatory authorities.

The 7% Senior Notes Indenture contains certain covenants limiting, among other things, our ability and the ability of our subsidiaries (other than its unrestricted subsidiaries) to:

pay dividends or distributions or make certain other restricted payments or investments;

incur or guarantee additional indebtedness or issue disqualified stock or create subordinated indebtedness that is not subordinated to the 7% Senior Notes or the guarantees of the 7% Senior Notes;

create liens;


transfer and sell assets;

merge, consolidate, or sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of our assets;

enter into certain transactions with affiliates;

engage in lines of business other than our core business and related businesses; and

create restrictions on dividends or other payments by restricted subsidiaries.

These covenants are subject to a number of exceptions and qualifications as set forth in the 7% Senior Notes Indenture. The 7% Senior Notes Indenture also provides for customary events of default which, if any of them occurs, would permit or require the principal of and accrued interest on such 7% Senior Notes to be declared due and payable. As of December 31, 2017, we were in compliance with all of the covenants under the 7% Senior Notes Indenture relating to the 7% Senior Notes.

6% Senior Notes

On March 29, 2017, Eagle II Acquisition Company LLC (“Eagle II”), our wholly-owned subsidiary, issued $375.0 million aggregate principal amount of 6% Senior Notes due 2025 (the “6% Senior Notes”) pursuant to an indenture, dated as of March 29, 2017 (the “6% Senior Notes Indenture”), between Eagle II and U.S. Bank, National Association, as Trustee. The 6% Senior Notes will mature on April 1, 2025, with interest payable semi-annually in arrears on April 1 and October 1, commencing October 1, 2017. The proceeds of the offering, and additional funds in the amount of $1.9 million in respect of interest expected to be accrued on the 6% Senior Notes, were placed in escrow pending satisfaction of certain conditions, including consummation of our acquisition of Isle. In connection with the consummation of our acquisition of Isle on May 1, 2017, the escrowed funds were released and we assumed Eagle II’s obligations under the 6% Senior Notes and the 6% Senior Notes Indenture and certain of our subsidiaries (including Isle and certain of its subsidiaries) executed guarantees of our obligations under the 6% Senior Notes.

On September 13, 2017, we issued an additional $500.0 million principal amount of the 6% Senior Notes at an issue price equal to 105.5% of the principal amount of the 6% Senior Notes. The additional notes were issued pursuant to the 6% Senior Notes Indenture that governs the 6% Senior Notes. We used the proceeds of the offering to repay $78.0 million of outstanding borrowings under the revolving credit facility and used the remainder to repay $444.5 million outstanding borrowings under the term loan facility and related accrued interest. As a result of the offering and retirement of existing debt, we recognized a loss of $11.1 million during the year ended December 31, 2017.

On or after April 1, 2020, we may redeem all or a portion of the 6% Senior Notes upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice, at the redemption prices (expressed as percentages of the principal amount) set forth below plus accrued and unpaid interest and additional interest, if any, on the 6% Senior Notes redeemed, to the applicable redemption date, if redeemed during the 12-month period beginning on April 1 of the years indicated below:

Year

 

Percentage

 

 

2020

 

 

104.500

 

%

2021

 

 

103.000

 

%

2022

 

 

101.500

 

%

2023 and thereafter

 

 

100.000

 

%

Prior to April 1, 2020, we may redeem all or a portion of the 6% Senior Notes at a price equal to 100% of the 6% Senior Notes redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date, plus a make-whole premium. At any time prior to April 1, 2020, we are also entitled to redeem up to 35% of the original aggregate principal amount of the 6% Senior Notes with proceeds of certain equity financings at a redemption price equal to 106% of the principal amount of the 6% Senior Notes redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest. If we experience certain change of control events (as defined in the 6% Senior Notes Indenture), we must offer to repurchase the 6% Senior Notes at 101% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest to the applicable repurchase date. If we sell assets under certain circumstances and do not use the proceeds for specified purposes, we must offer to repurchase the 6% Senior Notes at 100% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest to the applicable repurchase date.

The 6% Senior Notes are subject to redemption imposed by gaming laws and regulations of applicable gaming regulatory authorities.

The 6% Senior Notes Indenture contains certain covenants limiting, among other things, our ability and the ability of our subsidiaries (other than its unrestricted subsidiaries) to:

pay dividends or distributions or make certain other restricted payments or investments;

incur or guarantee additional indebtedness or issue disqualified stock or create subordinated indebtedness that is not subordinated to the 6% Senior Notes or the guarantees of the 6% Senior Notes;


create liens;

transfer and sell assets;

merge, consolidate, or sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of our assets;

enter into certain transactions with affiliates;

engage in lines of business other than our core business and related businesses; and

create restrictions on dividends or other payments by restricted subsidiaries.

These covenants are subject to a number of exceptions and qualifications as set forth in the 6% Senior Notes Indenture. The 6% Senior Notes Indenture also provides for customary events of default which, if any of them occurs, would permit or require the principal of and accrued interest on such 6% Senior Notes to be declared due and payable. As of December 31, 2017, we were in compliance with all of the covenants under the 6% Senior Notes Indenture relating to the 6% Senior Notes.

Credit Facility

On July 23, 2015, we entered into a new $425.0 million seven year term loan and a $150.0 million five year revolving credit facility.

The term loan bore interest at a rate per annum of, at our option, either (x) LIBOR plus 3.25%, with a LIBOR floor of 1.0%, or (y) a base rate plus 2.25%. Borrowings under the 2015 revolving credit facility bore interest at a rate per annum of, at our option, either (x) LIBOR plus a spread ranging from 2.5% to 3.25% or (y) a base rate plus a spread ranging from 1.5% to 2.25%, in each case with the spread determined based on our total leverage ratio. Additionally, we paid a commitment fee on the unused portion of the 2015 revolving credit facility not being utilized in the amount of 0.50% per annum.

On May 1, 2017, all of the outstanding amounts under our 2015 credit facility were repaid with proceeds of borrowings under the new credit facility and the 2015 credit facility was terminated.

New Credit Facility

On April 17, 2017, Eagle II entered into a new credit agreement by and among Eagle II, as initial borrower, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, and the lenders party thereto dated as of April 17, 2017, consisting of a $1.45totaled $11.4 billion term loan facility and a $300.0 million revolving credit facility, which was undrawn at closing. The proceeds of the new term loan facility, and additional funds in the amount of $4.5 million in respect of interest expected to be accrued on the new term loan facility, were placed in escrow pending satisfaction of certain conditions, including consummation of our acquisition of Isle. In connection with the consummation of our acquisition of Isle on May 1, 2017, the escrowed funds were released and we assumed Eagle II’s obligations under the new credit facility and certain of our subsidiaries (including Isle and certain of its subsidiaries) executed guarantees of our obligations under the new credit facility.

As of December 31, 2017, we had $956.8 million outstanding on the new term loan. There were no borrowings outstanding under the new revolving credit facility as of December 31, 2017. We had $291.6 million2023. See Note 10 to our Financial Statements for additional information about our VICI Leases and related matters.

GLPI Leases
The GLPI Master Lease, encompassing a portfolio of available borrowing capacity, after considerationproperties within the United States, provides for the lease of $8.4 million in outstanding letters of credit, under our new revolving credit facility as of December 31, 2017. At December 31, 2017, the weighted average interest rateland, buildings, structures and other improvements on the new term loan was 3.6%,land, easements and similar appurtenances to the weighted average interest rate onland and improvements relating to the new revolving credit facility was 4.0% based upon the weighted average interest rate of borrowings outstanding during 2017.

We applied the net proceedsoperation of the newleased properties. The GLPI Master Lease, inclusive of all amendments, provides for (i) an initial term loan facilityof 20 years (through September 2038), with four five-year renewals at the our option, (ii) annual land and borrowings under the new revolving credit facility totaling $135building base rent of $24 million together with the proceedsand $63 million, respectively, (iii) escalating provisions of building base rent equal to 101.25% of the 6% Senior Notesrent for the preceding year for lease years five and cash on hand,six, 101.75% for lease years seven and eight and 102% for each lease year thereafter and (iv) relief from the operating, capital expenditure and financial covenants in the event of involuntary closures. The GLPI Master Lease does not provide us with an option to (i) paypurchase the cash portion ofleased property or the consideration payable in our acquisition of Isle, (ii) refinance all of the debt outstanding under Isle’s existing credit facility, (iii) redeem or otherwise repurchase all of Isle’s outstanding 5.875% Senior Notes due 2021 and 8.875% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2020, (iv) repay all amounts outstanding under our 2015 credit facility and (v) pay fees and costs associated with our acquisition of Isle and such financing transactions.

Ourability to terminate its obligations under the new revolving credit facility will mature on April 17, 2022. Our obligations underGLPI Master Lease prior to its expiration without GLPI’s consent.

On May 5, 2022, we consummated the new term loan facility will mature on April 17, 2024. We were requiredsale of the equity interests of Baton Rouge. On November 13, 2023, a third amendment to make quarterly principal payments in an amount equal to $3.6 million on the new term loan facility on the last day of each fiscal quarter beginning on June 30, 2017. We satisfied this requirementGLPI Master Lease was entered into as a result of the principal prepaymentsale and removal of $444.5 million on September 13, 2017 in conjunction withBaton Rouge from the issuance of the additional 6% Senior Notes. In addition, we are required to make mandatory payments of amounts outstandingproperties included under the new credit facility with the proceeds of certain casualty events, debt issuances, and asset sales and, depending on its consolidated total leverage ratio, we are required to apply a portion of its excess cash flow to repay amounts outstanding under the new credit facility.

GLPI Master Lease.

The interest rate per annum applicable to loans under the new revolving credit facility is, at our option, either (i) LIBOR plus a margin ranging from 1.75% to 2.50% or (ii) a base rate plus a margin ranging from 0.75% to 1.50%, which margin is based on our total leverage ratio. The interest rate per annum applicable to the loans under the new term loan facility is, at our option, either (i) LIBOR plus 2.25%, or (ii) a base rate plus 1.25%; provided, however, that in no event will LIBOR be less than zero or the base rate be less than 1.00% over the term of the new term loan facility or the new revolving credit facility. Additionally, we pay a commitment fee on the unused portion of the new revolving credit facility not being utilized in the amount of 0.50% per annum.

The new credit facility is secured by substantially all of our personal property assets and substantially all personal property assets of each subsidiary that guaranties the new credit facility (other than certain subsidiary guarantors designated as immaterial), whether owned on the closing date of the new credit facility or thereafter acquired, and mortgages on the real property and improvements owned or leased us or the new credit facility guarantors. The new credit facility is also secured by a pledge of all of the equity ownedLumière Lease was entered into by us and GLPI, whereby we sold the new credit facility guarantors (subjectreal estate underlying Horseshoe St. Louis, formerly known as Lumière, to certain gaming law restrictions).GLPI and leased back the property under a long-term financing obligation. The credit agreement governing the new credit facility contains a numberLumière Lease, inclusive of customary covenants that, among other things, restrict, subjectall amendments, provides for (i) an initial term commencing on September 29, 2020 and ending on October 31, 2033, (ii) four five-year renewal options, (iii) annual rent payments of $23 million, (iv) escalation provisions commencing in lease year two equal to certain exceptions, our ability and the ability101.25% of the new credit facility guarantorsrent for the preceding year for lease years two through five, 101.75% for lease years six and seven and 102% for each lease year thereafter, (v) maintaining a minimum of 1.20:1 adjusted revenue to incur additional indebtedness, create liens, engage in mergers, consolidations or asset dispositions, make distributions, make investments, loans or advances, engage inrent ratio and (vi) certain transactions with affiliates or subsidiaries or make capital expenditures.

The new credit facility contains a number of customary covenants that, among other things, restrict, subject to certain exceptions, our ability and the ability of the subsidiary guarantors to incur debt; create liens; engage in mergers, consolidations or asset dispositions; pay dividends or make distributions; make investments, loans or advances; engage in certain transactions with affiliates or subsidiaries; or modify their lines of business.

The new credit facility also includes certain financial covenants, including the requirements that we maintain throughout the term of the new credit facility and measured as of the end of each fiscal quarter, and solely with respect to loansrelief under the new revolving credit facility, a maximum consolidated total leverage ratio of not more than 6.50 to 1.00 forfinancial covenant in the period beginning on the closing date and ending with the fiscal quarter ending December 31, 2018, 6.00 to 1.00 for the period beginning with the fiscal quarter beginning January 1, 2019 and ending with the fiscal quarter ending December 31, 2019, and 5.50 to 1.00 for the period beginning with the fiscal quarter beginning January 1, 2020 and thereafter. We will also be required to maintain an interest coverage ratio in an amount not less than 2.00 to 1.00 measured on the last day of each fiscal quarter beginning on the closing date, and ending with the fiscal quarter ending December 31, 2018, 2.50 to 1.00 for the period beginning with the fiscal quarter beginning January 1, 2019 and ending with the fiscal quarter ending December 31, 2019, and 2.75 to 1.00 for the period beginning with the fiscal quarter beginning January 1, 2020 and thereafter.

The new credit facility contains a number of customary events of default, including, among others, for the non-payment of principal, interest or other amounts, the inaccuracy of certain representations and warranties, the failure to perform or observe certain covenants, a cross default to our other indebtedness including the 6% Senior Notes and 7% Senior Notes, certain events of bankruptcy or insolvency; certain ERISA events, the invalidity of certain loan documents, certain changes of control and the loss of certain classes of licenses to conduct gaming. If any event of default occurs, the lenders under the new credit facility would be entitled to take various actions, including accelerating amounts outstanding thereunderinvoluntary closures.

The GLPI Leases are accounted for as financing obligations and taking all actions permitted to be taken by a secured creditor. As of December 31, 2017, we were in compliance with the covenants under the new credit facility.

Contractual Commitments

The following table summarizes our estimated contractual payment obligationstotaled $1.3 billion as of December 31, 2017:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Less than

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

More than

 

 

 

Total

 

 

1 year

 

 

1 - 3 years

 

 

3 - 5 years

 

 

5 years

 

 

 

(in millions)

 

Contractual cash obligations:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt obligations(1)

 

$

 

2,210.2

 

 

$

 

0.6

 

 

$

 

0.6

 

 

$

 

0.3

 

 

$

 

2,208.7

 

Estimated interest payments on long-term debt(2)

 

 

 

773.4

 

 

 

 

115.4

 

 

 

 

230.8

 

 

 

 

235.0

 

 

 

 

192.2

 

Operating leases(3)

 

 

 

188.2

 

 

 

 

12.1

 

 

 

 

18.4

 

 

 

 

14.2

 

 

 

 

143.5

 

Gaming tax and license fees(4)

 

 

 

63.8

 

 

 

 

12.8

 

 

 

 

25.5

 

 

 

 

25.5

 

 

 

See note 3

 

Purchase and other contractual obligations

 

 

 

36.9

 

 

 

 

25.9

 

 

 

 

9.7

 

 

 

 

1.0

 

 

 

 

0.3

 

Minimum purse obligations(5)

 

 

 

10.5

 

 

 

 

10.5

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Contingent earn-out payments(6)

 

 

 

0.5

 

 

 

 

0.1

 

 

 

 

0.2

 

 

 

 

0.2

 

 

 

 

 

Regulatory gaming assessments(7)

 

 

 

3.3

 

 

 

 

1.4

 

 

 

 

1.5

 

 

 

 

0.4

 

 

 

 

 

Total

 

$

 

3,286.8

 

 

$

 

178.8

 

 

$

 

286.7

 

 

$

 

276.6

 

 

$

 

2,544.7

 

(1)

These amounts are included in our consolidated balance sheets, which are included elsewhere in this report. See Note 9 to our consolidated financial statements for additional information about our debt and related matters.


(2)

Estimated interest payments on long-term debt are based on LIBOR rates and principal amounts outstanding on our new credit facility at December 31, 2017.

(3)

Our operating lease obligations are described in Note 16 to our consolidated financial statements.

(4)

Includes an annual table gaming license fee of $2.5 million for Mountaineer which is due on July 1st of each year as long as Mountaineer operates table games. Includes our obligation for gaming taxes at Presque Isle Downs, which is set at a minimum of $10.0 million per year, as required by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. Also includes our obligation at Presque Isle Downs, as the holder of a Category 1 license, to create a fund to be used for the improvement and maintenance of the backside area of the racetrack with an amount of not less than $250,000 or more than $1 million annually for a five-year period beginning in 2017.

(5)

Pursuant to an agreement with the Mountaineer Park Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association, Inc. and/or in accordance with the West Virginia racing statute, Mountaineer is required to utilize its best efforts to conduct racing for a minimum of 210 days and pay average daily minimum purses established by Mountaineer prior to the first live racing date each year ($88,000 for 2017) for the term of the agreement, which expires on December 31, 2018.

(6)

In connection with the 2003 purchase of Scioto Downs, certain stockholders of Scioto Downs elected the option to receive cash and contingent earn‑out payments (“CEP Rights”) in lieu of all cash for their outstanding shares of Scioto Downs’ common stock. The triggering event occurred when Scioto Downs received its permanent VLT license in May 2012 and commenced gaming operations. As a result, we recorded a liability for the estimated ten year payout to the stockholders who elected to receive the CEP Rights. The future obligation was calculated based on Scioto Downs’ projected EBITDA for the ten calendar years beginning January 1, 2013.

(7)

These amounts are included in our consolidated balance sheets, which are included elsewhere in this report. See Note 16 to our consolidated financial statements for additional information regarding our regulatory gaming assessments.

The table above excludes certain commitments as of December 31, 2017, for which the timing of expenditures associated with such commitments is unknown, or contractual agreements have not been executed, or the guaranteed maximum price for such contractual agreements has not been agreed upon.

The repayment of our long‑term debt, which consists of indebtedness evidenced by the 6% Senior Notes, 7% Senior Notes and the new credit facility, is subject to acceleration upon the occurrence of an event of default under the indentures governing these obligations.

We routinely enter into operational contracts in the ordinary course of our business, including construction contracts for minor projects that are not material2023. See Note 10 to our business or financial condition as a whole. Our commitments relating to these contracts are recognized as liabilities inFinancial Statements for additional information about our consolidated balance sheets when services are provided with respect to such contracts.

Off Balance Sheet Arrangements

We do not currently have any off balance sheet arrangements.

Inflation

We do not believe that inflation has had a significant impact on our revenues, results of operations or cash flows since inception.

GLPI Leases and related matters.

Other Liquidity Matters

We are faced with certain contingencies, from time to time, involving litigation, andclaims, assessments, environmental remediation andor compliance. These commitments and contingencies are discussed in greater detail in “Part I, Item 3. Legal Proceedings” and Note 1611 to our consolidated financial statements,Financial Statements, both of which are included elsewhere in this report. In addition, new competition may have a material adverse effectAnnual Report on our revenues, and could have a similar adverse effect on our liquidity.Form 10-K. See “Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business” which is included elsewhere in this report.

Annual Report on Form 10-K.



Critical Accounting Policies

Our significant and Estimates

We prepare our financial statements in conformity with GAAP. In preparing our financial statements, we have made our best estimates and judgments of the amounts and disclosures included in the financial statements, giving regard to materiality. When more than one accounting principle, or method of its application, is generally accepted, we select the principle or method that we consider to be the most appropriate under specific circumstances. Application of these accounting principles requires us to make estimates about the future resolution of existing uncertainties. Certain of our accounting policies, including those in connection with income taxes, goodwill and indefinite lived intangible assets, long-lived assets, allowance for doubtful accounts related to certain gaming receivables, self-insurance reserves, and litigation, claims and assessments require that we apply significant judgment in defining the appropriate assumptions for calculating financial estimates.
We consider accounting estimates to be critical accounting policies when:
the estimates involve matters that are included in Note 2highly uncertain at the time the accounting estimate is made; and
different estimates or changes to our consolidated financial statements, which are included elsewhere in this report. These policies, along with the underlying assumptions and judgments made by our management in their application,estimates could have a significantmaterial impact on our consolidatedthe reported financial statements. Theseposition, changes in financial position, or results of operations.
By their nature, these judgments and estimates are subject to an inherent degree of uncertainty. Our judgments and estimates are based on our historical experience, terms of existing contracts, observance of trends in the industry, information gathered from customer behavior, and information available from other outside sources, as appropriate. Due to the inherent uncertainty involving judgments and estimates, actual results couldmay differ from ourthose estimates.


Business Combinations

We applied the provisions of Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 805, “Business Combinations,” in theOur most critical accounting for the merger with MTR, acquisition of the Reno properties and our acquisition of Isle. It required us to recognize the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed at their acquisition date fair values. Goodwill as of their respective acquisition dates were measured as the excess of consideration transferred over the net of the acquisition date fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed.

Accounting for business combinations required our management to make significant estimates and assumptions including our estimate of intangible assets, such as gaming licenses, trade names and loyalty programs. Although we believe the assumptions and estimates made have been reasonable and appropriate, they are inherently uncertain. For our gaming license valuation, our properties estimated future cash flows were the primary assumption in the respective intangible valuations. Cash flow estimates included assumptions regarding factors such as recent and budgeted operating performance, net win per unit (revenue), patron visits and growth percentages. The growth percentages were developed considering general macroeconomic conditions as well as competitive impacts from current and anticipated competition through a review of customer market data, operating margins, and current regulatory, social and economic climates. The most significant of the assumptions used in the valuations included: (1) revenue growth/decline percentages; (2) discount rates; (3) effective income tax rates; (4) future terminal values and (5) capital expenditure assumptions. These assumptions were developed for each of our properties based on historical trends in the current competitive markets in which they operate, and projections of future performance and competition. The primary assumptions with respect to our trade names and loyalty program intangibles primary assumptions were selecting the appropriate royalty rates and cost estimates for replacement cost analyses.

In addition, uncertain tax positions and tax related valuation allowances assumed in connection with a business combination are initially estimated as of the business combination date. We reevaluated these items quarterly based upon facts and circumstances that existed as of the business combination date with any adjustments to our preliminary estimates being recorded to goodwill if identified within the measurement period. Subsequent to the measurement period or our final determination of the tax allowance’s or contingency’s estimated value, whichever comes first, changes to these uncertain tax positions and tax related valuation allowances will affect our provision for income taxes in our consolidated statements of income and could have material impact on our results of operations and financial position.

Revenue Recognition

Gaming revenues consist of the net win from gaming activities, which is the difference between amounts wagered and amounts paid to winning patrons, and is recognized at the time wagers are made net of winning payouts to patrons. Base and progressive jackpots are accrued and charged to revenue at the time the obligation to pay the jackpot is established. Pari‑mutuel commissions consist of commissions earned from thoroughbred and harness racing, and importing of simulcast signals from other race tracks. Pari‑mutuel commissions are recognized at the time wagers are made. Such commissions are a designated portion of the wagering handle as determined by state racing commissions, and are shown net of the taxes assessed by state and local agencies, as well as purses and other contractual amounts paid to horsemen associations. We recognize revenues from fees earned through the exporting of simulcast signals to other race tracks at the time wagers are made. Such fees are based upon a predetermined percentage of handle as contracted with the other race tracks. Revenues from food and beverage are recognized at the time of sale and revenues from lodging are recognized on the date of stay. Other revenues are recorded at the time services are rendered or merchandise sold. We offer certain promotional allowances to our customers, including complimentary lodging, food and beverage, and promotional credits for free play on slot machines. The retail value of these promotional items is shown as a reduction in total revenues on our consolidated statements of income.

For information with respect to our adoption of ASU No. 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers,” (Topic 606) effective January 1, 2018, see “Note 2, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies – Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements”, in the notes to the consolidated financial statements.

following areas:

Income Taxes

We and our subsidiaries file US federal income tax returns and variouswith federal, state and localforeign jurisdictions. Our income tax returns. We do not have tax sharing agreements with the other members within the consolidated ERI group. With few exceptions, wereturns are no longer subject to US federal or state and local tax examinations by tax authorities for years before 2012.

We were notifiedexamination by the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) and other tax authorities. Positions taken in October of 2016 that its federal tax returnreturns are sometimes subject to uncertainty in the tax laws and may not ultimately be accepted by the IRS or other tax authorities. See Note 17 in the accompanying consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2014 had been selected for examination. In September 2017, the Internal Revenue Service informed us that they completed the examinationa discussion of the status and impact of examinations by tax returnauthorities.

We record income taxes under the asset and made no changes. However,liability method, whereby deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized based on the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases, and as attributable to operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. We reduce the carrying amounts of deferred tax assets by a valuation allowance if, based on the available evidence, it is more likely than not that such assets will not be realized. Management assesses the available positive and negative evidence to estimate if sufficient future taxable income will be generated to use existing deferred tax assets. During the second quarter of 2023, we mayevaluated our forecasted adjusted taxable income and objectively verifiable evidence and placed substantial weight on our 2022 and 2023 quarterly earnings, adjusted for non-recurring items, including the interest expense disallowed under current tax law. Accordingly, we determined it was more likely than not that a portion of the federal and state deferred tax assets will be subjectrealized and, as a result, during the second quarter of 2023, we reversed the valuation allowance related to these deferred tax auditsassets and recorded an income tax benefit of $940 million. We are still carrying a valuation allowance on certain federal and state deferred tax assets that are not more likely than not to be realized in the future andfuture. We have assessed the outcome of tax audits cannot be predicted with certainty. If any issues addressed in our tax audits are resolved in a manner not consistent with our expectations, we would be required to adjust our provision for income taxes in the period such resolution occurs. While we believe our reported results are materially accurate, any significant adjustments could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, cash flows and financial position.


On December 22, 2017, the U.S. government enacted comprehensive tax legislation commonly referred to as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. The Tax Act makes broad and complex changes to the U.S.valuation allowance, including realization of the disallowed interest expense deferred tax code, including, but not limited to, (1) reducingasset, using the U.S. federal corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%; (2) eliminating the corporate alternative minimum tax (AMT) and changing how existing AMT credits can be realized; (3) creating a new limitation on deductible interest expense; (4) changing rules related to uses and limitationsintegrated approach.

As of net operating loss carryforwards created in tax years beginning after December 31, 2017; (5) bonus depreciation that will allow for full expensing of qualified property; and (6) limitations on2023, the deductibility of certain executive compensation.  

The SEC staff issued Staff Accounting Bulletin (“SAB”) 118, which provides guidance on accounting for the tax effects of the Tax Act. SAB 118 provides a measurement period that should not extend beyond one year from the Tax Act enactment date for companies to complete the accounting under ASC 740. In accordance with SAB 118, a company must reflect the income tax effects of those aspects of the Tax Act for which the accounting under ASC 740 is complete. To the extent that a company’s accounting for certain income tax effects of the Tax Act is incomplete but it is able to determine a reasonable estimate, it must record a provisional estimate in the financial statements. If a company cannot determine a provisional estimate to be included in the financial statements, it should continue to apply ASC 740 on the basis of the provisions of the tax laws that were in effect immediately before the enactment of the Tax Act.

In connection with our initial analysis of the impact of the Tax Act, for certain of our net deferred tax liabilities, we have recorded a decrease of $112.4 million, net of the related change in valuation allowance, with a corresponding net adjustment to deferred income tax benefit for the year ending December 31, 2017 as a result of the corporate rate reduction. For various reasons that are discussed more fully below, we have not completed our accounting for the income tax effects of certain elements of the Tax Act, therefore, we have made reasonable estimates of the effects of the elements for which our analysis is not yet complete.

While we have not yet completed all of the computations necessary or completed an inventory of our 2017 expenditures that qualify for immediate expensing, we have recorded a provisional benefit based on our current intent to fully expense all qualifying expenditures. This did not result in any significant change to our current income tax payable or in our deferred tax liabilities due to ourCompany had federal and state net operating loss carry forwards.

For the year ended December 31, 2015, the difference between the effective ratecarryforwards of $872 million and the statutory rate is attributable primarily to the release$9.0 billion, respectively, and federal general business tax credit and research tax credit carryforwards of a majority of the federal and related state valuation allowances$145 million, which will expire on our deferred tax assets and the non-taxable gain on the fair value adjustment of a previously unconsolidated affiliate. We continue to provide for a valuation allowance against net federal and state deferred tax assets associated with non-operating land, the sale of which could result in capital losses that can only be offset against capital gains. As of December 31, 2015, we also continued to provide for a valuation allowance against net state deferred tax assets relating to operations in Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Management determined it was not more-likely-than-not that we will realize these net deferred tax assets.

For the year ended December 31, 2016, the difference between the effective rate and the statutory rate is attributable primarily to the release of a majority of the state valuation allowances on our West Virginia deferred tax assets and excess tax benefits on stock compensation under Accounting Standards Update 2016-09, Compensation – Stock Compensation, which we adopted effective the first quarter of 2016. We continue to provide for a valuation allowance against net federal and state deferred tax assets associated with non-operating land, the sale of which could result in capital losses that can only be offset against capital gains. As of December 31, 2016, we also continued to provide for a valuation allowance against net state deferred tax assets relating to operations in Pennsylvania. Management determined it was not more-likely-than-not that we will realize these net deferred tax assets.

For the year ended December 31, 2017, the difference between the effective rate and the statutory rate is attributable primarily to the impact of the Tax Act discussed more fully above, non-deductible asset impairment charges, non-deductible transaction costs incurred and changes in the effective state tax rate associated with the acquisition of Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc., and the release of the valuation allowance against certain Pennsylvania deferred tax assets. We continue to provide for a valuation allowance against net federal and state deferred tax assets associated with non-operating land, the sale of which could result in capital losses that can only be offset against capital gains. We also continue to provide for a valuation allowance against net state deferred tax assets relating to certain operations in Pennsylvania, Louisiana, Colorado and Iowa. Management determined it was not more-likely-than-not that we will realize these net deferred tax assets.

A valuation allowance is recognized if, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more-likely-than-not that some portion, or all, of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. Management must analyze all available positive and negative evidence regarding realization of the deferred tax assets and make an assessment of the likelihood of sufficient future taxable income. For the year ended December 31, 2015, we were in a three-year cumulative income position and management concluded it is more-likely-than-not to realize its federal, Louisiana and City of Columbus, Ohio deferred tax assets, with the exception of non-operating land. For the year ended December 31, 2016, we remained in a three-year cumulative income position and management concluded it is more-likely-than-not to realize its federal, Louisiana, City of Columbus, Ohio and West Virginia deferred tax assets, with the exception of non-operating land. For the year ended December 31, 2017, we remained in a three-year cumulative income position and management concluded it is more-likely-than-not to realize its


federal, City of Columbus, Ohio, City of Kansas City, Missouri, West Virginia, Missouri and certain Pennsylvania, Colorado and Florida deferred tax assets, with the exception of non-operating land. We continue to provide for a valuation allowance against net state deferred tax assets relating to certain operations in Pennsylvania, Louisiana, Colorado and Iowa. Management determined it was not more-likely-than-not that we will realize these net deferred tax assets. We will continue to evaluate the realization of its deferred tax assets on a quarterly basis and make adjustments to its valuation allowancevarious dates as appropriate.

For income tax purposes we amortize or depreciate certain assets that have been assigned an indefinite life for book purposes. The incremental amortization or depreciation deductions for income tax purposes result in an increase in certain deferred tax liabilities that cannot be used as a source of future taxable income for purposes of measuring our need for a valuation allowance against the net deferred tax assets. Therefore, we expect to record non cash deferred tax expense as we amortize these assets for tax purposes.

follows:

Year of ExpirationNet Operating LossesTax Credits
(In millions)FederalStatesFederal
2024-2028$— $604 $
2029-2033238 1,590 39 
2034-2043168 4,560 98 
Do not expire466 2,279 — 
$872 $9,033 $145 
Under the applicable accounting standards, we may recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more‑likely‑than‑more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefits recognized in the financial statements from such a position should be measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. The accounting standards also


provide guidance on de‑recognition,de-recognition, classification, interest and penalties on income taxes, accounting in interim periods and disclosure requirements for uncertain tax positions. We have recorded no liability associated with uncertain tax positions at December 31, 2017 and 2016.

Property and Equipment

Goodwill and Other Long‑LivedIndefinite-lived Intangible Assets

Property

Assessing goodwill and equipmentindefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment is a process that requires significant judgment and involves detailed qualitative and quantitative business-specific analysis and many individual assumptions which fluctuate between assessments.
We determine the estimated fair value of each reporting unit based on a combination of EBITDA, valuation multiples, and estimated future cash flows discounted at rates commensurate with the capital structure and cost of capital of comparable market participants, giving appropriate consideration to the prevailing borrowing rates within the casino industry in general. We also evaluate the aggregate fair value of all of our reporting units and other non-operating assets in comparison to our aggregate debt and equity market capitalization at the test date. EBITDA multiples and discounted cash flows are common measures used to value businesses in our industry.
We determine the fair value of our indefinite-lived intangible assets using either the relief from royalty method or the excess earnings method under the income approach or replacement cost market approach. The determination of fair value of our reporting units and indefinite-lived intangible assets requires management to make significant assumptions and estimates around the forecasts as well as the selection of discount rates and valuation multiples. Changes in these estimates could have a significant impact on the fair value of our reporting units, intangible assets and result in potential impairment.
Forecasts and the determination of appropriate discount rates and valuation multiples used to determine the fair value of our reporting units and indefinite-lived intangible assets involves significant assumptions and estimates. Assumptions include those used to assess effects of changes in the competitive environment, capital projects and new developments which may not be realized at the projected rate.
We completed our annual impairment tests as of October 1, 2023. The estimated fair values of certain of our indefinite lived intangible assets and reporting units decreased primarily due to a decrease in projected future cash flows at certain regional properties due to increased competition. Accordingly, we identified one reporting unit with which the estimated fair value of the associated gaming rights was less than the carrying value and recorded at cost, except foran impairment of $81 million. In addition, we identified one reporting unit where the estimated fair value of the respective reporting unit was below the carrying value and recorded a total impairment of $14 million to goodwill. These reporting units are within the Regional segment.
As of October 1, 2023, three reporting units in the Regional segment with goodwill totaling $1.1 billion had fair values that did not significantly exceed their respective carrying values. In addition, we identified a trademark totaling $114 million in the Las Vegas segment and a gaming right totaling $91 million in the Regional segment that do not significantly exceed their respective carrying values. The reporting units and indefinite lived intangible assets with carrying values that do not significantly exceed their estimated fair values are primarily assets acquired in the Isle, Silver Legacy, Circus RenoMerger when our discount rate was approximately 9.5%. The discount rate used in our annual impairment testing as of October 1, 2023 was approximately 10.5%. To the extent gaming volumes deteriorate in the near future, discount rates increase significantly, or we do not meet our projected performance, we may recognize further impairments, and MTR Gaming acquisitions, which were adjustedsuch impairments could be material. The discount rate represents the most sensitive input in our estimates and an increase of 1% to the discount rate would result in impairments of approximately $40 million on the assets that do not significantly exceed their carrying values. In addition, $1.0 billion of goodwill within our Regional segment is associated with reporting units with zero or negative carrying values. See Note 7 for fair value under ASC 805additional information.
Long-Lived Assets
We have significant capital invested in our long-lived assets, and are depreciated over their remaining estimated useful life or lease term. Judgmentsjudgments are made in determining the estimated useful lives andof assets, salvage values of these assets.to be assigned to assets, and if or when an asset has been impaired. The accuracy of these estimates affects the amount of depreciation and amortization expense recognized in our financial results and whether we have a gain or loss on the disposal of assets.an asset. We assign lives to our assets based on our standard policy, which is established by management as representative of the useful life of each category of asset. We review depreciation estimates and methods as new events occur, more experience is acquired, and additional information is obtained that would possibly changethe carrying value of our current estimates.

Property, equipment and other long‑livedlong-lived assets are assessed for impairment in accordance with ASC 360—Property, Plant, and Equipment. We evaluate our long‑lived assets periodically for impairment issues or, more frequently, whenever events orand circumstances indicate that the carrying amountvalue of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of these assets is determined by comparing the net carrying value to the sum of the estimated future net undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by these assets. The amount of impairment loss, if any, is measured by the difference between the net carrying value and the estimated fair value of the asset which is typically measured using a discounted cash flow model (Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy). For assets to be disposed of, impairment is recognized based on the lower of carrying value or fair value less costs of disposal, as estimated based on comparable asset sales, offers received, or a discounted cash flow model. Based on the results of our periodic reviews we have not recorded any long-lived assets impairment charges during the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015.

For undeveloped properties, including non‑operating real properties, when indicators of impairment are present, properties are evaluated for impairment and losses are recorded when undiscounted cash flows estimated to be generated by an asset or market comparisons are less than the asset’s carrying amount. The amount of the impairment loss is calculated as the excess of the asset’s carrying value over its fair value, which is determined using a discounted cash flow analysis, management estimates or market comparisons. The fair value measurements employed for our impairment evaluations, which are subject to the assumptions and factors as previously discussed, were generally based on a review of comparable activities in the marketplace, which fall within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

Goodwill and Other Indefinite‑lived Intangible Assets

Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price paid over the fair value of the net assets of the acquired business. Intangible assets acquired in business combinations are recorded based upon their fair value at the date of acquisition. Goodwill and other indefinite‑lived intangible assets are reviewed for impairment annually, during the fourth quarter, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that an asset might be impaired.

As a result of our annual impairment review, impairment charges totaling $34.9 million and $3.1 million related to goodwill and trade names, respectively, were recorded in 2017. The fair value measurements employed for our impairment evaluations, which are subject to the assumptions and factors as previously discussed, were generally based on a review of comparable activities in the marketplace, which fall within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy


Goodwill is tested by comparing the carrying value of the reporting unit to its fair value. We estimate the fair value of the reporting unit utilizing income and market approaches. The income approach is based on projected future cash flow that is discounted to present value using factors that consider the timing and risk of the future cash flows. The market approach is based on our market capitalization at the testing date.

Our indefinite‑lived intangible assets consist of racing and gaming licenses and trade names and are evaluated for impairment annually by comparing the fair value of the asset to its carrying value. Any excess of carrying value over the fair value is recognized as an impairment within the consolidated statements of income in the period of review.

The gaming and racing licenses were valued in aggregate for each respective property, as these licenses are considered to be the most significant asset of the properties and the gaming licenses could not be obtained without holding the racing licenses. Therefore, a market participant would consider the licenses in aggregate. The fair value of the licenses is calculated using an excess earnings methodology, which is an income approach methodology that allocates the projected cash flows of the property to the gaming license intangible assets less charges for the use of the other identifiable assets of the property, including working capital, fixed assets, and other intangible assets. We believe this methodology is appropriate as the gaming licenses are the primary asset to the properties, the licenses are linked to each respective facility and it’s the lowest level at which discrete cash flows can be directly attributable to the assets. Under the gaming legislation applicable to our properties, licenses are property specific and can only be acquired if a buyer acquires the existing facility. Because existing licenses may not be acquired and transferred for use at a different facility,recoverable from the estimated future cash flows expected to result from its use and eventual disposition. The factors considered by management in performing this assessment include current operating results, trends and prospects, planned construction and renovation projects, as well as the effect of each of our properties was the primary assumption in the valuation of such property.

We value trade names using the relief‑from‑royalty method with royalty rates range from 0.5% ‑ 1.0%. Trade names recorded as part of the merger with MTR are amortized on a straight‑line basis over a 3.5 year useful lifeobsolescence, demand, competition, and the trade names recorded as part of our acquisition of Isleother economic, legal, and acquisition of the Reno properties are not amortized (deemed indefinite-lived).

The loyalty programs were valued using a combination of a replacement cost and lost profits analysis and the loyalty programs are amortized on a straight‑line basis over a one- to three-year useful life.

Assessing goodwill and indefinite‑lived intangible assets for impairment is a process that requires significant judgment and involves detailed quantitative and qualitative business‑specific analysis and many individual assumptions which fluctuate between assessments. Our properties’ estimatedregulatory factors. In estimating expected future cash flows for determining whether an asset is impaired, assets are a primary assumption ingrouped at the respective impairment analyses. Unforeseen events, changes in circumstances and market conditions and material differences in estimateslowest level of futureidentifiable cash flows, could negatively affect the fair valuewhich, for most of our assets, and result in an impairment charge, which could be material. Cash flow estimates include assumptions regarding factors such as recent and budgeted operating performance, net win per unit (revenue), patron visits, growth percentages which are developed considering general macroeconomic conditions as well as competitive impacts from current and anticipated competition through a reviewis the individual property. See Note 6 for additional information.



Allowance for each property based on historical trends, the current competitive markets in which they operate, and projections of future performance and competition.

We believe we have used reasonable estimates and assumptions to calculate the fair value of our goodwill reporting units and other indefinite‑lived intangible assets; however, these estimates and assumptions could be materially different from actual results. If actual market conditions are less favorable than those projected, or if events occur or circumstances change that would reduce the fair value of our licensing intangibles below the carrying value reflected on the consolidated balance sheet, we may be required to conduct an interim test or possibly recognize impairment charges, which may be material, in future periods.

Reserve for UncollectibleDoubtful Accounts Receivable

- Gaming

We reserve an estimated amount for gaming receivables that may not be collected.collected to reduce the Company’s receivables to their net carrying amount. Methodologies for estimating bad debt reservesthe allowance for doubtful accounts range from specific reserves to various percentages applied to aged receivables. Historical collection rates and reasonable forecasts are considered, as are customer relationships, in determining specific reserves.reserves to reflect current expected credit loss. As with many estimates, management must make judgments about potential actions by third parties in establishing and evaluating our reserves for bad debts.

allowance for doubtful accounts. As of December 31, 2023, a 5% increase or decrease to the allowance determined based on a percentage of aged receivables would change the reserve by approximately $15 million.

Self-Insurance Reserves

Self‑Insurance Reserves

We are self‑insuredself-insured for various levels of general liability, employee medical insurance coverage and workers’ compensation coverage. Insurance claims and reserves include accruals of estimated settlements for known claims, as well as accruals of estimates for claims incurred but not yet reported. We utilize independent consultants to assist management in its determination of estimated insurance liabilities. While the total cost of claims incurred depends on future developments, in managements’ opinion, recorded reserves are adequate to cover future claims payments. Self-insurance reserves for employee medical claims, and workers’ compensations are included in accrued payroll and related on the consolidated balance sheets. Self‑insurance reserves for general liability claims are included in accruedwithin Accrued other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.

Loyalty Program

We offer programs wherebyBalance Sheets.

The assumptions utilized by our participating patrons can accumulate points for wagering that canactuaries are subject to significant uncertainty and if outcomes differ from these assumptions or events develop or progress in a negative manner, the Company could experience a material adverse effect and additional liabilities may be redeemed for credits for free play on slot machines, lodging, food and beverage, merchandise and in limited situations, cash. Based upon the estimated redemptions of loyalty program points, an estimated liability is established for the cost of redemption on earned but unredeemed points. The estimated cost of redemption utilizes estimates and assumptions of the mix of the various product offerings for which the points will be redeemed and costs of such product offerings. Changesrecorded in the programs, membership levels and redemption patterns of our participating patrons can impact this liability.

future.

Litigation, Claims and Assessments

We utilize estimates for litigation, claims and assessments. These estimates are based on our knowledge and experience regarding current and past events, as well as assumptions about future events. If our assessment of such a matter should change, we may have to change the estimates, which may have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

For information with respect to recent accounting pronouncements and the impact of these pronouncements on our consolidated financial statements,Financial Statements, see Note 2, Summary of Significant Accounting PoliciesRecently Issued Accounting Pronouncements, in the notes to the consolidated financial statements.

Notes.

Item 7A.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.

Item 7A.    Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

Market risk is the risk of loss arising from adverse changes in market rates and prices, such as interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates and commodity prices. We are exposed to changes in interest rates primarily from variable rate long‑termlong-term debt arrangements. At December 31, 2017,We manage our interest on borrowings under our New Credit Facility was subject to fluctuation based on changes in short-term interest rates.

As of December 31, 2017, our long‑term variable‑rate borrowings totaled $956.8 million under the New Term Loan and represented approximately 43% of our long‑term debt. In conjunction with the issuance of $500 million of additional 6% Senior Notes and the retirement of variable rate debt in September 2017, this percentage declined from 54% as of December 31, 2016. During 2017, the weighted average interest rates on our variable and fixed rate debt were 3.8% and 6.3%, respectively.

The Company evaluates its exposure to market risk by monitoring interest rates, in the marketplaceincluding future projected rates, and has, on occasion, utilized derivative financial instruments to help manage this risk. The Company does not utilize derivative financial instruments for trading purposes. There were no material quantitative changes inadjust our market risk exposure, or how such risks are managed, for the year endedmix of fixed and variable rate borrowings.

Interest Rate Risk
As of December 31, 2017.

2023, the face value of our long-term debt was $12.4 billion, including variable-rate long-term borrowings of $3.2 billion. No amounts were outstanding under our revolving credit facility.

The following table below provides information as of December 31, 20172023 about our debt obligations, including debtfixed rate and variable rate financial instruments that isare sensitive to changes in interest rates, including the cash flows associated with amortization and presents principalaverage interest rates. Principal amounts are used to calculate the payments to be exchanged under the related agreements and related weighted-average interestaverage variable rates by expected maturity dates. Impliedare based on implied forward rates in the yield curve as of December 31, 2023 and should not be considered a predictor of actual future interest rates.


The scheduled maturitiesTable of our long-termContents
58


Expected Maturity Date
(Dollars in millions)2024
2025 (a)
202620272028ThereafterTotalFair Value
Liabilities
Long-term debt
Fixed rate$$4,390 $$1,613 $$3,237 $9,246 $9,230 
Average interest rate4.3 %6.1 %4.3 %8.1 %4.3 %6.1 %6.5 %
Variable rate$63 $63 $63 $63 $585 $2,356 $3,193 $3,186 
Average interest rate6.9 %5.7 %5.4 %5.5 %4.9 %6.7 %6.5 %
____________________
(a)Maturities of $4.4 billion in 2025 of fixed rate were repaid with the net proceeds of the $2.9 billion CEI Term Loan B-1 and the $1.5 billion CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2032. Following these transactions, the balance of fixed rate debt outstanding fordecreased by $2.9 billion and the years ending December 31 are as follows:

balance of variable rate debt increased by $3.0 billion.

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

2018

 

 

2019

 

 

2020

 

 

2021

 

 

2022

 

 

Thereafter

 

 

Total

 

 

Fixed Rate Debt

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6% Senior Notes

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

875,000

 

 

$

 

875,000

 

 

7% Senior Notes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

375,000

 

 

 

 

375,000

 

 

Fixed Interest Rate

 

 

 

6.30

 

%

 

 

6.30

 

%

 

 

6.30

 

%

 

 

6.30

 

%

 

 

6.30

 

%

 

 

6.30

 

%

 

 

6.30

 

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Variable Rate Debt

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Term Loan (1)

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

956,750

 

 

$

 

956,750

 

 

Average Interest Rate

 

 

 

3.77

 

%

 

 

3.77

 

%

 

 

3.77

 

%

 

 

3.77

 

%

 

 

3.77

 

%

 

 

3.77

 

%

 

 

3.77

 

%

(1)

Based upon the weighted average interest rate of borrowings outstanding on our new credit facility as of December 31, 2017. Borrowings under the new credit facility bear interest at a rate per annum of, at our option, either LIBOR or base rate plus an applicable spread.

As of December 31, 2017,2023, borrowings outstanding under our new term loanCEI credit agreement were long-term variable-rate borrowings. Assuming a 100 basis-point increase in LIBOR (in the case of the new term loan, over the 1% floor specified in our credit agreement),Term SOFR, our annual interest cost would change by $9.6approximately $32 million based on gross amounts outstanding at December 31, 2017.

2023.
We do not purchase or hold any derivative financial instruments for trading purposes.
Table of Contents
59


Item 8.    Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF
CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.

Item 8.

Page

Table of Contents
60


REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the stockholders and the Board of Directors of Caesars Entertainment, Inc.
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Caesars Entertainment, Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023, and the related notes and the schedule listed in the Index at Item 15 (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated February 20, 2024, expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Critical Audit Matters
The critical audit matters communicated below are matters arising from the current-period audit of the financial statements that were communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that (1) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matters below, providing separate opinions on the critical audit matters or on the accounts or disclosures to which they relate.
Income Taxes – Valuation Allowance – Refer to Note 17 to the Financial Statements
Critical Audit Matter Description
The Company records income taxes under the asset and liability method, whereby deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. The carrying amounts of deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance if, based on the available evidence, it is more likely than not that such assets will not be realized. The Company assesses the available positive and negative evidence to estimate if sufficient future taxable income will be generated to use existing deferred tax assets. During the second quarter of 2023, the Company determined it was more likely than not that a portion of the federal and state deferred tax assets will be realized in the future. As a result, the Company reversed the valuation allowance related to these deferred tax assets and recorded a net income tax benefit of $940 million.
We identified that management’s determination that a portion of the deferred tax assets will be realized as a critical audit matter because of the significant management judgements in assessing the available positive and negative evidence that sufficient taxable income will be generated. This required a higher degree of auditor judgement and an increased extent of effort, including the need to involve our income tax specialists, when performing procedures to evaluate the reasonableness of managements estimates of future taxable income.
Table of Contents
61


How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit
Our audit procedures related to managements determination that in the current year it is more likely than not that sufficient future taxable income will be generated included the following, among others;
We tested the effectiveness of managements controls over:
Judgements and estimates related to the realization of deferred tax assets.
The determination of whether it is more likely than not that sufficient income will be generated in the future to realize the deferred tax assets.
With the assistance of our tax specialists, we performed the following:
Evaluated the reasonableness of methods, assumptions, and judgements used by management to determine whether a reversal of their valuation allowance was appropriate.
Evaluated management’s assessment and weighting of the positive and negative evidence used to conclude if a valuation allowance was necessary.
Evaluated the realizability of deferred tax assets, including the application of tax laws and the projections of future income.
Evaluated whether the estimates of future taxable income were consistent with evidence obtained in other areas of the audit.
Goodwill and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets Refer to Note 7 to the Financial Statements
Critical Audit Matter Description
The Company reviews goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment at least annually and between annual test dates in certain circumstances. The Company performs its impairment test by comparing the fair value of each reporting unit to the carrying amount. The Company determines the established fair value of each reporting unit based on a combination of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (“EBITDA”), valuation multiples, and estimated future cash flows discounted at rates commensurate with the capital structure and cost of capital of comparable market participants, considering the prevailing borrowing rates within the casino industry in general, and expected sales proceeds. The Company further evaluates the aggregate fair value of all reporting units and other non-operating assets in comparison to its aggregate debt and equity market capitalization at the test date.
Indefinite-lived intangible assets consist primarily of trademarks, Caesars Rewards, and gaming rights. The Company uses the Excess Earnings Method and Cost Approach to determine the estimated fair value of gaming rights and uses the relief from royalty method to determine the estimated fair value of trademarks and Caesars Rewards.
The Company performed its annual impairment assessment as of October 1, 2023. The Company’s goodwill balance was $10,990 million as of December 31, 2023 of which we identified: (1) $1.3 billion and $105 million was related to two reporting units in the Las Vegas segment and one reporting unit in the Regional segment, respectively, had estimated fair values that did not significantly exceed their carrying values and (2) $1.2 billion related to one Reporting Unit in the Caesars Digital segment which had an increased level of sensitivity with management forecasts and selected discount rate and valuation multiples.
The Company’s indefinite-lived intangibles balance was $3,577 million as of December 31, 2023, of which trademarks totaling $254 million and $523 million in the Las Vegas and Corporate segments, respectively, had estimated fair values that did not significantly exceed their carrying values.
The determination of the Company’s reporting units and indefinite-lived intangible assets fair value requires management to make significant assumptions and estimates around forecasts and the selection of discount rates and valuation multiples. Therefore, our audit procedures to evaluate the reasonableness of management’s forecasts required a higher degree of auditor judgment, increased level of audit effort, and use of more experienced audit professionals, as well as the involvement of valuation specialists.
How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit
Our audit procedures related to management’s forecasts and the selection of discount rates and valuation multiples used by management to determine the fair value of the Company’s reporting units and indefinite-lived intangible assets included the following, among others:
We tested the effectiveness of the Company’s internal controls over valuation inputs including management’s forecasts and the selection of discount rates and valuation multiples.
Table of Contents
62


We evaluated management’s ability to accurately forecast by comparing management’s historical projections to actual performance.
We evaluated the reasonableness of the assumptions and estimates included in management’s forecasts by:
Comparing forecasts to information included in the Company’s communications to the Board of Directors, projected information in industry reports, and analyst reports for the Company and peer companies.
Conducting inquiries with property management.
Considering the impact of changes in the competitive, regulatory, and economic environment on management’s projections.
Assessing the reasonableness of strategic plans incorporated by management into the projections.
Evaluating management’s estimate and the impact of any related expansion of gaming activities by analyzing historical information.
With the assistance of our valuation specialists, we evaluated the discount rates selected by management by:
Assessing the impact of the uncertainty in the forecasts on the discount rates, including testing the underlying market-based source information used in the selection of the discount rates and the mathematical accuracy of the discount rate calculations.
Developing a range of independent estimates and comparing those to discount rates selected by management.

/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Las Vegas, Nevada
February 20, 2024
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2020.

Table of Contents
63


CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
December 31,
(Dollars in millions, except par value)20232022
ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash and cash equivalents$1,005 $1,038 
Restricted cash122 131 
Accounts receivable, net608 611 
Inventories46 59 
Prepayments and other current assets264 263 
Total current assets2,045 2,102 
Investments in and advances to unconsolidated affiliates157 94 
Property and equipment, net14,756 14,598 
Goodwill10,990 11,004 
Intangible assets other than goodwill4,523 4,714 
Deferred tax asset47 — 
Other long-term assets, net848 1,015 
Total assets$33,366 $33,527 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Accounts payable$408 $314 
Accrued interest369 318 
Accrued other liabilities1,848 1,928 
Current portion of long-term debt65 108 
Total current liabilities2,690 2,668 
Long-term financing obligation12,759 12,610 
Long-term debt12,224 12,659 
Deferred tax liability102 987 
Other long-term liabilities871 852 
Total liabilities28,646 29,776 
Commitments and contingencies (Note 11)
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:
Preferred stock, $0.00001 par value, 150,000,000 shares authorized, no shares issued and outstanding— — 
Common stock, $0.00001 par value, 500,000,000 shares authorized, 215,800,650 and 214,671,754 issued and outstanding, net of treasury shares— — 
Additional paid-in capital7,001 6,953 
Accumulated deficit(2,523)(3,309)
Treasury stock at cost, 363,016 and 363,016 shares held(23)(23)
Accumulated other comprehensive income97 92 
Caesars stockholders' equity4,552 3,713 
Noncontrolling interests168 38 
Total stockholders’ equity4,720 3,751 
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity$33,366 $33,527 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
Table of Contents
64


CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
Years Ended December 31,
(In millions, except per share data)202320222021
NET REVENUES:
Casino$6,367 $5,997 $5,827 
Food and beverage1,728 1,596 1,140 
Hotel2,090 1,957 1,551 
Other1,343 1,271 1,052 
Net revenues11,528 10,821 9,570 
OPERATING EXPENSES:
Casino3,342 3,526 3,129 
Food and beverage1,049 935 707 
Hotel570 529 438 
Other434 411 373 
General and administrative2,012 2,068 1,782 
Corporate306 286 309 
Impairment charges95 108 102 
Depreciation and amortization1,261 1,205 1,126 
Transaction and other costs, net(13)14 144 
Total operating expenses9,056 9,082 8,110 
Operating income2,472 1,739 1,460 
OTHER EXPENSE:
Interest expense, net(2,342)(2,265)(2,295)
Loss on extinguishment of debt(200)(85)(236)
Other income (loss)10 46 (198)
Total other expense(2,532)(2,304)(2,729)
Loss from continuing operations before income taxes(60)(565)(1,269)
Benefit for income taxes888 41 283 
Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income taxes828 (524)(986)
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes— (386)(30)
Net income (loss)828 (910)(1,016)
Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests(42)11 (3)
Net income (loss) attributable to Caesars$786 $(899)$(1,019)
Net income (loss) per share - basic and diluted:
Basic income (loss) per share from continuing operations$3.65 $(2.39)$(4.69)
Basic loss per share from discontinued operations— (1.80)(0.14)
Basic income (loss) per share$3.65 $(4.19)$(4.83)
Diluted income (loss) per share from continuing operations$3.64 $(2.39)$(4.69)
Diluted loss per share from discontinued operations— (1.80)(0.14)
Diluted income (loss) per share$3.64 $(4.19)$(4.83)
Weighted average basic shares outstanding215 214 211 
Weighted average diluted shares outstanding216 214 211 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
Table of Contents
65


CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
Years Ended December 31,
(In millions)202320222021
Net income (loss)$828 $(910)$(1,016)
Foreign currency translation adjustments34 (45)
Change in fair market value of interest rate swaps, net of tax— 21 47 
Other— (1)
Other comprehensive income, net of tax55 
Comprehensive income (loss)833 (855)(1,015)
Amounts attributable to noncontrolling interests:
Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests(42)11 (3)
Foreign currency translation adjustments— 
Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests(42)12 (2)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Caesars$791 $(843)$(1,017)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
Table of Contents
66


CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Caesars Stockholders' Equity
Preferred StockCommon StockTreasury Stock
(In millions)SharesAmountSharesAmountAdditional Paid-in CapitalAccumulated DeficitAccumulated Other Comprehensive IncomeAmountNoncontrolling InterestsTotal Stockholders' Equity
Balance, January 1, 2021— $— 208 $— $6,382 $(1,391)$34 $(9)$18 $5,034 
Stock-based compensation— — — 83 — — — — 83 
Issuance of common stock, net— — — 456 — — (14)— 442 
Net income (loss)— — — — — (1,019)— — (1,016)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax— — — — — — — (1)
Shares withheld related to net share settlement of stock awards— — — — (44)— — — — (44)
Transactions with noncontrolling interests— — — — — — — — 41 41 
Balance, December 31, 2021— — 214 — 6,877 (2,410)36 (23)61 4,541 
Stock-based compensation— — — 102 — — — — 102 
Net loss— — — — — (899)— — (11)(910)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax— — — — — — 56 — (1)55 
Shares withheld related to net share settlement of stock awards— — — — (26)— — — — (26)
Transactions with noncontrolling interests— — — — — — — — (11)(11)
Balance, December 31, 2022— — 215 — 6,953 (3,309)92 (23)38 3,751 
Stock-based compensation— — — 104 — — — — 104 
Net income— — — — — 786 — — 42 828 
Other comprehensive income, net of tax— — — — — — — — 
Shares withheld related to net share settlement of stock awards— — — — (27)— — — — (27)
Transactions with noncontrolling interests— — — — (29)— — — 88 59 
Balance, December 31, 2023— $— 216 $— $7,001 $(2,523)$97 $(23)$168 $4,720 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
Table of Contents
67


CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Years Ended December 31,
(In millions)202320222021
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income (loss)$828 $(910)$(1,016)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes— 386 30 
Depreciation and amortization1,261 1,205 1,126 
Amortization of deferred financing costs and discounts200 297 347 
Provision for doubtful accounts41 25 26 
Loss on extinguishment of debt200 85 236 
Non-cash lease amortization51 54 39 
(Gain) loss on investments(5)54 107 
Stock-based compensation expense104 101 82 
Loss on sale of businesses and disposal of property and equipment22 11 
Impairment charges95 108 102 
Deferred income taxes(888)(41)(283)
(Gain) loss on derivatives— (73)127 
Foreign currency transaction gain— — (21)
Other non-cash adjustments to net (income) loss(40)(57)(8)
Change in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable(82)(143)(135)
Prepaid expenses and other assets39 (15)(67)
Income taxes (receivable) payable(27)(7)13 
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities10 (82)482 
Other— 
Net cash provided by operating activities1,809 993 1,199 
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchase of property and equipment(1,264)(952)(520)
Acquisition of William Hill, net of cash acquired— — (1,581)
Purchase of additional interest in Horseshoe Baltimore, net of cash consolidated— — (5)
Acquisition of gaming rights and trademarks(30)(11)(312)
Proceeds from sale of businesses, property and equipment, net of cash sold39 726 
Proceeds from the sale of investments126 239 
Proceeds from insurance related to property damage— 36 44 
Investments in unconsolidated affiliates(3)— (39)
Other36 (6)— 
Net cash used in investing activities(1,256)(768)(1,448)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Proceeds from long-term debt and revolving credit facilities5,460 1,500 1,308 
Repayments of long-term debt and revolving credit facilities(6,106)(2,738)(1,977)
Financing obligation payments(8)(3)(5)
Debt issuance and extinguishment costs(79)(12)(56)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock— 
Cash paid to settle convertible notes— — (367)
Taxes paid related to net share settlement of equity awards(27)(27)(45)
Payments to acquire ownership interest in subsidiary(66)— — 
Contributions from noncontrolling interest owners116 — — 
Distributions to noncontrolling interest(3)(3)(2)
Net cash used in financing activities(713)(1,282)(1,141)
Table of Contents
68


Years Ended December 31,
(In millions)202320222021
CASH FLOWS FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS:
Cash flows from operating activities— (18)(27)
Cash flows from investing activities— 386 (1,475)
Cash flows from financing activities— — 591 
Net cash from discontinued operations— 368 (911)
Change in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash classified as assets held for sale— — 10 
Effect of foreign currency exchange rates on cash— (29)32 
Decrease in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash(160)(718)(2,259)
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period1,303 2,021 4,280 
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period$1,143 $1,303 $2,021 
RECONCILIATION OF CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND RESTRICTED CASH TO AMOUNTS REPORTED WITHIN THE CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS:
Cash and cash equivalents$1,005 $1,038 $1,070 
Restricted cash122 131 319 
Restricted and escrow cash included in other noncurrent assets16 134 323 
Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash in discontinued operations— — 309 
Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash$1,143 $1,303 $2,021 
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Cash interest paid for debt$846 $805 $831 
Cash interest paid for rent related to financing obligations1,286 1,205 1,092 
Income taxes paid, net26 22 
NON-CASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Payables for capital expenditures169 145 100 
Convertible notes settled with shares— — 440 
Land contributed to joint venture— — 61 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
Table of Contents
69


CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Caesars Entertainment, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and notesits consolidated subsidiaries which may be referred to consolidatedas the “Company,” “CEI,” “Caesars,” “we,” “our,” “us,” or the “Registrant” within these financial statements,statements.
We also refer to (i) our Consolidated Financial Statements as our “Financial Statements,” (ii) our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) as our “Statements of Operations,” (iii) our Consolidated Balance Sheets as our “Balance Sheets,” and (iv) our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows as our “Statements of Cash Flows,” which are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”). References to numbered “Notes” refer to Notes to our Consolidated Financial Statements included herein.
Note 1. Organization and Basis of Presentation
Organization
The Company is a geographically diversified gaming and hospitality company that was founded in 1973 by the Carano family with the opening of the Eldorado Hotel Casino in Reno, Nevada. Beginning in 2005, the Company grew through a series of acquisitions, including the reportacquisition of Ernst & Young LLP thereon,MTR Gaming Group, Inc. in 2014, Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. in 2017, Tropicana Entertainment, Inc. in 2018, Caesars Entertainment Corporation in 2020, and William Hill PLC (the “William Hill Acquisition”) on April 22, 2021. The Company’s ticker symbol on the NASDAQ Stock Market is “CZR”.
The Company owns, leases, brands or manages an aggregate of 52 domestic properties in 18 states with approximately 51,300 slot machines, video lottery terminals and e-tables, approximately 2,700 table games and approximately 44,700 hotel rooms as of December 31, 2023. The Company operates and conducts sports wagering across 31 jurisdictions in North America, 25 of which offer online sports betting, and operates iGaming in five jurisdictions in North America. In addition, the Company has other properties in North America that are authorized to use the brands and marks of Caesars Entertainment, Inc., as well as other non-gaming properties. The Company’s primary source of revenue is generated by its casino properties’ gaming operations, which includes retail and online sports betting and online gaming, and the Company utilizes its hotels, restaurants, bars, entertainment, racing, retail shops and other services to attract customers to its properties.
The Company’s operations for retail and online sports betting, iGaming, and online poker are included at pages 68 through 118under the Caesars Digital segment. The Company has made significant investments into the interactive business in recent years with, among other investments, the William Hill Acquisition, strategic expansion into new markets as legalization permits, and marketing campaigns with distinguished actors, former athletes and media personalities promoting the Caesars Sportsbook app. The Company expects to continue to expand its operations in the Caesars Digital segment as new jurisdictions legalize retail and online gaming and sports betting.
The Company has divested certain properties and other assets, including non-core properties and divestitures required by regulatory agencies. See Note 4 for a discussion of this Annual Reportproperties recently sold and Note 19 for segment information.
Basis of Presentation
Our Financial Statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, which requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. Management believes the accounting estimates are appropriate and reasonably determined. Actual amounts could materially differ from those estimates.
The presentation of financial information herein for the periods after the Company’s acquisitions or before divestitures of various properties is not fully comparable to the periods prior to their respective purchase or after the sale dates. See Note 3 for further discussion of the acquisitions and related transactions and Note 4 for properties recently divested.
Our Financial Statements include the accounts of Caesars Entertainment, Inc. and its subsidiaries after elimination of all intercompany accounts and transactions. See Note 2 for policy on Form 10‑K.

consolidation of subsidiaries.

Item 9.

Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure.

Table of Contents

None.

70

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

Item 9A.  Controls

Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Additional significant accounting policy disclosures are provided within the applicable Notes to the Financial Statements.
Consolidation of Subsidiaries and Procedures.

EvaluationVariable Interest Entities

We consolidate all subsidiaries in which we have a controlling financial interest and variable interest entities (“VIEs”) for which we or one of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

We have established and maintain disclosure controls and proceduresour consolidated subsidiaries is the primary beneficiary. Control generally equates to ownership percentage, whereby (i) affiliates that are more than 50% owned are consolidated; (ii) investments in affiliates of 50% or less but greater than 20% are generally accounted for using the equity method where we have determined that we have significant influence over the entities; and (iii) investments in affiliates of 20% or less are generally accounted for as investments in equity securities.

We consider ourselves the primary beneficiary of a VIE when we have both the power to direct the activities that most significantly affect the results of the VIE and the right to receive benefits or the obligation to absorb losses of the entity that could be potentially significant to the VIE. We review investments for VIE consideration if a reconsideration event occurs to determine if the investment qualifies, or continues to qualify, as a VIE. If we determine an investment qualifies, or no longer qualifies, as a VIE, there may be a material effect to our Financial Statements.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash equivalents include investments in money market funds that can be redeemed immediately at the current net asset value per share. A money market fund is a mutual fund whose investments are primarily in short-term debt securities designed to ensuremaximize current income with liquidity and capital preservation, usually maintaining per share net asset value at a constant amount, such as one dollar. The carrying amounts approximate the fair value because of the short maturity of those instruments (Level 1). Cash and cash equivalents also include cash maintained for gaming operations.
Restricted Cash
Restricted cash includes cash equivalents held in certificates of deposit accounts or money market type funds, that information requiredare not subject to be disclosed in our reports that we fileremeasurement on a recurring basis, which are restricted under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), is recorded, processed, summarized, evaluated and reported within the time periods specifiedcertain operating agreements or restricted for future capital expenditures in the rules and formsnormal course of the SEC, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

In designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives, and management necessarily is required to apply its judgmentbusiness.

Advertising
Advertising costs are expensed in evaluating the cost‑benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures.

Management, under the supervision and with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer (principal executive officer) and Chief Financial Officer (principal financial officer), evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) promulgated under the Exchange Act) as of the end of the period covered by this Form 10-K Annual Reportthe advertising initially takes place. Advertising costs were $259 million, $571 million and as required by Rules 13a-15(b) and 15d-15(b) promulgated under the Exchange Act. Based on this evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2017, at a reasonable assurance level.

Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) or 15d-15(e) promulgated under the Exchange Act) for Eldorado Resorts, Inc. and its subsidiaries.


This system is designed to provide reasonable assurance to the Company’s management regarding the reliability of financial reporting and preparation of consolidated financial statements for external purposes.

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, evaluated and assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of the end of the period covered by this Form 10-K Annual Report based upon the framework set forth in the Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued in 2013 by the Committee of Sponsoring Organization of the Treadway Commission. Based on this evaluation and assessment, management believes that, as of December 31, 2017, our internal control over financial reporting was effective based on those criteria.

The Company completed its acquisition of Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. (“Isle”) on May 1, 2017 (the “Isle Acquisition”). Since the Company has not yet fully incorporated the internal controls and procedures of Isle into the Company’s internal control over financial reporting, management excluded Isle from its assessment of the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017. The Isle Acquisition constituted 53% of total assets as of December 31, 2017, and 41% of net revenues$518 million for the year then ended.

Ernst & Young LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, has issued an attestation report on our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017, which report follows below.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Except as noted below, during the quarteryears ended December 31, 2017, there were no significant changes in our internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, and are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

On May 1, 2017, we completedincluded within operating expenses. During the acquisition of Isle. See Part IV, Item 15, Financial Statement Schedules, Note 3: Isle Acquisition and Reno Acquisition and Preliminary Purchase Accounting, for a discussion of the acquisition and related financial data. The Company is in the process of integrating Isle and our internal control over financial reporting. As a result of these integration activities, certain controls will be evaluated and may be changed. Excluding the Isle Acquisition, there were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonable likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.



Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm


The Board of Directors and Stockholders

Eldorado Resorts, Inc.

Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

We have audited Eldorado Resorts, Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017, based on criteria established in Internal Control— Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) (the COSO criteria). In our opinion, Eldorado Resorts, Inc. (the Company) maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017, based on the COSO criteria.  

As indicated in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting included in Item 9A, management’s assessment of and conclusion on the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting did not include the internal controls of Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc., which is included in the 2017 consolidated financial statements of the Company and constituted 53% of total assets as of December 31, 2017 and 41% of net revenues for the year then ended. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting of the Company also did not include an evaluation of the internal control over financial reporting of Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated balance sheets of Eldorado Resorts, Inc. as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, stockholders' equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2017,2022 and the related notes and the financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 15 (a)(ii) of2021, the Company launched significant television, radio and our report dated February 27, 2018 expressedinternet marketing campaigns promoting the Caesars Sportsbook. Advertising costs related to the Caesars Digital segment are primarily recorded in Casino expense.

Interest Expense, Net
Years Ended December 31,
(In millions)202320222021
Interest expense$2,394 $2,303 $2,320 
Capitalized interest(40)(26)(9)
Interest income(12)(12)(16)
Total interest expense, net$2,342 $2,265 $2,295 
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
Pronouncements to Be Implemented in Future Periods
In December 2023, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2023-09, “Income Taxes: Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures,” which requires disaggregated information about an unqualified opinion thereon.

Basisentity’s effective tax rate reconciliation as well as information on income taxes paid. These updates apply to all entities subject to income taxes and will be effective for Opinion

The Company’s managementannual periods beginning after December 15, 2024. Early adoption is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’s Reportpermitted. Updates will be applied on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting included in Item 9A. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registeredprospective basis with the PCAOB and are requiredoption to be independent with respectapply the standard retrospectively. We do not expect the amendments in this update to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.  

Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effectimpact on our Financial Statements.

Table of Contents
71

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-07, “Segment Reporting: Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures,” which requires public entities to disclose information about their reportable segments’ significant expenses on an interim and annual basis. This guidance is effective for years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim period within years beginning after December 15, 2024. Early adoption is permitted. Amendments in this update should be applied retrospectively to all prior periods presented in the financial statements.


Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may We do not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectivenessexpect the amendments in this update to future periods are subjecthave a material impact on our Financial Statements.

In October 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-06, “Disclosure Improvements: Codification Amendments In Response to the risk that controls may become inadequate becauseSEC’s Disclosure Update and Simplification Initiative,” to clarify or improve disclosure and presentation requirements on a variety of changestopics and align the requirements in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Roseville, California
February 27, 2018


Item 9B.

Other Information.

Not applicable.


PART III

Item 10.

Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance.

The information required by this Item is hereby incorporated by reference to our definitive Proxy Statement for our Annual Meeting of Stockholders (our “Proxy Statement”) to be filedFASB accounting standard codification with the Securities and Exchange Commission regulations. This guidance is effective for the Company no later than June 30, 2027. We do not expect the amendments in this update to have a material impact on our Financial Statements.

Note 3. Acquisitions, Purchase Price Accounting and Pro forma Information
Acquisition of William Hill
On April 30, 2018, pursuant22, 2021, we completed the acquisition of William Hill PLC for cash consideration of approximately £2.9 billion, or approximately $3.9 billion, based on the GBP to Regulation 14AUSD exchange rate on the closing date.
We acquired William Hill PLC and its U.S. subsidiary, William Hill U.S. Holdco (“William Hill US” and together with William Hill PLC, “William Hill”) to better position the Company to address the extensive usage of digital platforms, continued legalization in additional states and jurisdictions, and growing bettor demand, which are driving the market for online sports betting platforms in the U.S. In addition, we continue to leverage the World Series of Poker (“WSOP”) brand and license the WSOP trademarks for a variety of products and services across these digital platforms. At the time that the William Hill Acquisition was consummated, the Company’s intent was to divest William Hill International.
On September 8, 2021, the Company entered into an agreement to sell William Hill International to 888 Holdings Plc for approximately £2.2 billion. On April 7, 2022, the Company amended the agreement to sell William Hill International to 888 Holdings Plc for a revised enterprise value of approximately £2.0 billion. During the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company recorded impairments to assets held for sale of $503 million within discontinued operations based on the revised and final sales price. On July 1, 2022, the Company completed the sale of William Hill International to 888 Holdings Plc.
Prior to the acquisition, the Company accounted for its investment in William Hill PLC as an investment in equity securities and William Hill US as an equity method investment. Accordingly, the acquisition was accounted for as a business combination achieved in stages, or a “step acquisition.”
As mentioned above, the total purchase consideration for William Hill was approximately $3.9 billion. The purchase consideration in the acquisition was determined with reference to its acquisition date fair value.
(In millions)Consideration
Cash for outstanding William Hill common stock (a)
$3,909 
Fair value of William Hill equity awards30 
Settlement of preexisting relationships (net of receivable/payable)
Settlement of preexisting relationships (net of previously held equity investment and off-market settlement)(34)
Total purchase consideration$3,912 
____________________
(a)William Hill common stock of approximately 1.0 billion shares as of the acquisition date was paid at £2.72 per share, or approximately $3.77 per share using the GBP to USD exchange rate on the acquisition date.
Table of Contents
72

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Final Purchase Price Allocation
The fair values are based on management’s analysis, including work performed by third-party valuation specialists, and were finalized over the one-year measurement period. The following table summarizes the allocation of the purchase consideration to the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed of William Hill, with the excess recorded as goodwill as of December 31, 2022:
(In millions)Fair Value
Other current assets$164 
Assets held for sale4,337 
Property and equipment, net55 
Goodwill1,154 
Intangible assets (a)
565 
Other noncurrent assets317 
Total assets$6,592 
Other current liabilities$242 
Liabilities related to assets held for sale (b)
2,142 
Deferred income taxes251 
Other noncurrent liabilities35 
Total liabilities2,670 
Noncontrolling interests10 
Net assets acquired$3,912 
____________________
(a)Intangible assets consist of gaming rights valued at $80 million, trademarks valued at $27 million, developed technology valued at $110 million, reacquired rights valued at $280 million and user relationships valued at $68 million.
(b)Includes the fair value of debt of $1.1 billion related to William Hill International at the acquisition date.
The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed were determined using the market, income, and cost approaches, or a combination. Valuation methodologies under both a market and income approach used for the identifiable net assets acquired in the William Hill Acquisition make use of Level 3 inputs, such as expected cash flows and projected financial results. The market approach indicates value for a subject asset based on available market pricing for comparable assets.
Trade receivables and payables and other current and noncurrent assets and liabilities were valued at the existing carrying values as they represented the estimated fair value of those items at the William Hill acquisition date.
Assets and liabilities held for sale substantially represented William Hill International which was valued using a combination of approaches including a market approach based on valuation multiples and EBITDA, the relief from royalty method and the replacement cost method. In addition to the approaches described, our estimates were updated to reflect the sale price of William Hill International in the sale to 888 Holdings Plc, described above.
The acquired net assets of William Hill included certain investments in common stock. Investments with a publicly available share price were valued using the share price on the acquisition date. Investments without publicly available share data were valued at their carrying value, which approximated fair value.
Other personal property assets such as furniture, equipment, computer hardware, and fixtures were valued using a cost approach which determined that the carrying values represented fair value of those items at the William Hill acquisition date.
Trademarks and developed technology were valued using the relief from royalty method, which presumes that without ownership of such trademarks or technology, the Company would have to make a series of payments to the assets’ owner in return for the right to use their brand or technology. By virtue of their ownership of the respective intangible assets, the Company avoids any such payments and records the related intangible value. The estimated useful lives of the trademarks and developed technology were approximately 15 years and six years, respectively, from the acquisition date.
Online user relationships are valued using a cost approach based on the estimated marketing and promotional cost to acquire the new active user base if the user relationships were not already in place and needed to be replaced. We estimated the useful life of the user relationships to be approximately three years from the acquisition date.
Table of Contents
73

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Operating agreements with non-Caesars entities allowed William Hill to operate retail and online sportsbooks as well as online gaming within certain states. These agreements were valued using the excess earnings method, estimating the projected profits of the business attributable to the rights afforded through the agreements, adjusted for returns of other assets that contribute to the generation of this profit, such as working capital, fixed assets and other intangible assets. We estimated the useful life of these operating agreements to be approximately 20 years from the acquisition date and have included them within amortizing gaming rights.
The reacquired rights intangible asset represents the estimated fair value of the Company’s share of William Hill’s forecasted profits arising from the prior contractual arrangement with the Company to operate retail and online sportsbooks and online gaming. This fair value estimate was determined using the excess earnings method, an income-based approach that reflects the present value of the future profit William Hill expected to earn over the remaining term of the contract, adjusted for returns of other assets that contribute to the generation of this profit, such as working capital, fixed assets and other intangible assets. The forecasted profit used within the valuation was adjusted for the settlement of the preexisting relationship in order to avoid double counting of the settlement. Reacquired rights are amortizable over the remaining contractual period of the contract in which the rights were granted and estimated to be approximately 24 years from the acquisition date.
Goodwill is the result of expected synergies from the operations of the combined company and future customer relationships including the brand names and strategic partner relationships of Caesars and the technology and assembled workforce of William Hill. The goodwill acquired will not generate amortization deductions for income tax purposes.
The fair value of long-term debt assumed was calculated based on market quotes.
The Company recognized acquisition-related transaction costs of $21 million and $68 million for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively, excluding additional transaction costs associated with sale of William Hill International. These costs were associated with legal, professional services, and certain severance and retention costs and were primarily recorded in Transaction and other costs, net in our Statements of Operations.
For the period of April 22, 2021 through December 31, 2021, the operations of William Hill generated net revenues of $183 million, excluding discontinued operations (see Note 4), and a net loss of $415 million.
Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information
The following unaudited pro forma financial information is presented to illustrate the estimated effects of the William Hill Acquisition as if it had occurred on January 1, 2020. The pro forma amounts include the historical operating results of the Company and William Hill prior to the acquisition, with adjustments directly attributable to the acquisition. The pro forma results include adjustments and consequential tax effects to reflect incremental amortization expense to be incurred based on preliminary fair values of the identifiable intangible assets acquired, eliminate gains and losses related to certain investments and adjustments to the timing of acquisition related costs and expenses incurred during the year ended December 31, 2021. The unaudited pro forma financial information is not necessarily indicative of the financial position or results that would have occurred had the William Hill Acquisition been consummated as of the dates indicated, nor is it indicative of any future results. In addition, the unaudited pro forma financial information does not reflect the expected realization of any synergies or cost savings associated with the acquisition.
(In millions)Year Ended December 31, 2021
Net revenues$9,696 
Net loss(893)
Net loss attributable to Caesars(896)
Consolidation of Horseshoe Baltimore
On July 10, 2023, the Company completed the acquisition of the remaining 24.2% equity ownership in Horseshoe Baltimore, utilizing cash on hand, for a total of $66 million.
On August 26, 2021 (the “Consolidation Date”), the Company increased its ownership interest in Horseshoe Baltimore, a property which it also managed, to approximately 75.8% for cash consideration of $55 million. Our previously held investment was remeasured as of the date of the change in ownership and the Company recognized a gain of $40 million during the year ended December 31, 2021. Subsequent to the change in ownership, the Company was determined to have a controlling financial interest and began to consolidate the operations of Horseshoe Baltimore.
Table of Contents
74

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Prior to the purchase, the Company held an interest in Horseshoe Baltimore of approximately 44.3% which was accounted for as an equity method investment.
(In millions)Consideration
Cash for additional ownership interest$55 
Preexisting relationships (net of receivable/payable)18 
Preexisting relationships (net of previously held equity investment)81 
Total purchase consideration$154 
Final Purchase Price Allocation
The fair values are based on management’s analysis, including work performed by a third-party valuation specialist, and were finalized over the one-year measurement period. The following table summarizes the allocation of the purchase consideration to the identifiable assets and liabilities of Horseshoe Baltimore, with excess recorded as goodwill as of December 31, 2022:
(In millions)Fair Value
Current assets$60 
Property and equipment, net317 
Goodwill63 
Intangible assets (a)
53 
Other noncurrent assets183 
Total assets$676 
Current liabilities$26 
Long-term debt272 
Other long-term liabilities182 
Total liabilities480 
Noncontrolling interests42 
Net assets acquired$154 
____________________
(a)Intangible assets consist of gaming rights valued at $43 million and customer relationships valued at $10 million.
The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed were determined using the market, income, and cost approaches, or a combination. Valuation methodologies under both a market and income approach used for the identifiable net assets of Horseshoe Baltimore on the Consolidation Date make use of Level 3 inputs, such as expected cash flows and projected financial results. The market approach indicates value for a subject asset based on available market pricing for comparable assets.
Trade receivables and payables and other current and noncurrent assets and liabilities were valued at the existing carrying values as they represented the estimated fair value of those items on the Consolidation Date.
Other personal property assets such as furniture, equipment, computer hardware, and fixtures were valued at the existing carrying values as they closely represented the estimated fair value of those items on the Consolidation Date.
The fair value of the buildings and improvements were estimated via the income approach. The remaining estimated useful life of the buildings and improvements on the Consolidation Date is 40 years.
The right of use asset and operating lease liability related to a ground lease for the site on which Horseshoe Baltimore is located was recorded at fair value and will be amortized over the estimated remaining useful life due to changes in the underlying fair value and estimated remaining useful life of the building and improvements. Renewal options are considered to be reasonably certain. The income approach was used to determine fair value, based on the estimated present value of the future lease payments over the lease term, including renewal options, using an incremental borrowing rate of approximately 7.6%.
Customer relationships are valued using an income approach, comparing the prospective cash flows with and without the customer relationships in place to estimate the fair value of the customer relationships, with the fair value assumed to be equal to the discounted cash flows of the business that would be lost if the customer relationships were not in place and needed to be replaced. We estimate the useful life of these customer relationships to be approximately seven years from the Consolidation Date.
Table of Contents
75

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
The fair value of the gaming rights was determined using the excess earnings method, which is an income approach methodology that estimates the projected cash flows of the business attributable to the gaming license intangible asset, which is net of charges for the use of other identifiable assets of the business including working capital, fixed assets and other intangible assets. The acquired gaming rights are considered to have an indefinite life.
The goodwill acquired will generate amortization deductions for income tax purposes.
The fair value of long-term debt has been calculated based on market quotes.
For the period of August 26, 2021 through December 31, 2021, the operations of Horseshoe Baltimore generated net revenues of $72 million, and a net income of $4 million.
Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information
The following unaudited pro forma financial information is presented to illustrate the estimated effects of the Horseshoe Baltimore consolidation as if it had occurred on January 1, 2020. The pro forma amounts include the historical operating results of the Company and Horseshoe Baltimore prior to the consolidation. The pro forma results include adjustments and consequential tax effects to reflect incremental amortization expense to be incurred based on preliminary fair values of the identifiable intangible assets acquired and the adjustments to eliminate certain revenues and expenses which are considered intercompany activities. The unaudited pro forma financial information is not necessarily indicative of the financial results that would have occurred had the consolidation of Horseshoe Baltimore occurred as of the dates indicated, nor is it indicative of any future results. In addition, the unaudited pro forma financial information does not reflect the expected realization of any synergies or cost savings associated with the consolidation.
(In millions)Year Ended December 31, 2021
Net revenues$9,693 
Net loss(1,049)
Net loss attributable to Caesars(1,056)
Note 4. Divestitures and Discontinued Operations
The Company periodically divests assets to raise capital or, in previous cases, to comply with conditions, terms, obligations or restrictions imposed by antitrust, gaming and other regulatory entities. The carrying value of the net assets held for sale are compared to the expected selling price and any expected losses are recorded immediately. Gains or losses associated with the disposal of assets held for sale are recorded within other operating costs, unless the assets represent a discontinued operation.
Rio, Baton Rouge, Evansville and MontBleu Divestitures
On October 2, 2023, the Company’s lease term related to certain assets of Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino (“Rio”) ended and all operations were assumed by the lessor. Rio was reported within the Las Vegas segment.
On May 5, 2022, the Company consummated the sale of the equity interests of Belle of Baton Rouge Casino & Hotel (“Baton Rouge”) to CQ Holding Company, Inc., resulting in a loss of $3 million.
On June 3, 2021, the Company consummated the sale of the real property and equity interests of Tropicana Evansville (“Evansville”) to Gaming and Leisure Properties, Inc. (“GLPI”) and Bally’s Corporation, respectively, for $480 million, resulting in a gain of $12 million.
On April 6, 2021, the Company consummated the sale of the equity interests of MontBleu Casino Resort & Spa (“MontBleu”) to Bally’s Corporation for $15 million, resulting in a gain of less than $1 million. The Company received the payment in full on April 5, 2022.
Prior to their respective closing dates, Baton Rouge, Evansville and MontBleu did not meet the requirements for presentation as discontinued operations. All properties were previously reported in the Regional segment.
Table of Contents
76

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
The following information presents the net revenues and net income (loss) of recent divestitures:
Year Ended December 31, 2023
(In millions)Rio
Net revenues$145 
Net income15 
Year Ended December 31, 2022
(In millions)RioBaton Rouge
Net revenues$199 $
Net income (loss)18 (1)
Year Ended December 31, 2021
(In millions)RioBaton RougeEvansvilleMontBleu
Net revenues$205 $17 $58 $11 
Net income (loss)22 (2)26 
Discontinued operations
On July 20, 2020, the closing date of the merger between Eldorado Hotel Casino and Caesars Entertainment Corporation (the “Merger”), Harrah’s Louisiana Downs, Caesars Southern Indiana and Caesars UK Group, met held for sale criteria. The operations of these properties, until their respective date of divestiture, have been presented within discontinued operations. In addition, at the time that the William Hill Acquisition was consummated, the Company’s intent was to divest William Hill International. Accordingly, the assets and liabilities of these reporting units were classified as held for sale with operations presented within discontinued operations.
On November 1, 2021, the Company consummated the sale of the equity interests of Harrah’s Louisiana Downs to Rubico Acquisition Corp. for $22 million and proceeds were split between the Company and VICI Properties L.P., a Delaware limited partnership (“VICI”). The annual base rent payments under the Securities Act.

We have adopted a code of ethicsRegional Master Lease between Caesars and business conduct applicable to all directors and employees, includingVICI remained unchanged.

On September 3, 2021, the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer. The code of ethics and business conduct is posted on our website, http://www.eldoradoresorts.com (accessible throughCompany consummated the “Corporate Governance” captionsale of the Investor Relations page)equity interests of Caesars Southern Indiana to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (“EBCI”) for $250 million, resulting in a gain of $12 million. In connection with this transaction, the Company’s annual base rent payments to VICI under the Regional Master Lease were reduced by $33 million. Additionally, the Company and EBCI entered into a 10-year brand license agreement, for the continued use of the Caesars brand and Caesars Rewards loyalty program at Caesars Southern Indiana. The agreement contains cancellation rights in exchange for a termination fee at the buyer’s discretion following the fifth anniversary of the agreement.
On July 16, 2021, the Company completed the sale of Caesars UK Group, in which the buyer assumed all liabilities associated with the Caesars UK Group, and recorded an impairment of $14 million within discontinued operations.
The following information presents the net revenues and net income (loss) for the Company’s properties that are part of discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2022 and 2021:
Year Ended December 31, 2022
(In millions)William Hill International
Net revenues$820 
Net loss(448)
Year Ended December 31, 2021
(In millions)Harrah’s Louisiana DownsCaesars UK GroupCaesars Southern IndianaWilliam Hill International
Net revenues$48 $30 $155 $1,221 
Net income (loss)10 (30)27 (18)
Table of Contents
77

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Note 5. Investments in and Advances to Unconsolidated Affiliates
The Company has investments in unconsolidated affiliates accounted for under the equity method which are recorded in Investment in and advances to unconsolidated affiliates on the Balance Sheets. Certain significant investments as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 are discussed below.
Pompano Joint Venture
In April 2018, the Company entered into a joint venture with Cordish Companies (“Cordish”) to plan and develop a mixed-use entertainment and hospitality destination expected to be located on unused land adjacent to the casino and racetrack at the Company’s Pompano property. As the managing member, Cordish will operate the business and manage the development, construction, financing, marketing, leasing, maintenance and day-to-day operation of the various phases of the project. Additionally, Cordish will be responsible for the development of the master plan for the project with the Company’s input and will submit it for the Company’s review and approval. While the Company holds a 50% variable interest in the joint venture, it is not the primary beneficiary; as such the investment in the joint venture is accounted for using the equity method. The Company participates evenly with Cordish in the profits and losses of the joint venture, which are included in Transaction and other costs on the Statements of Operations.
As of December 31, 2023, the Company has contributed a total of $7 million in cash contributions since inception of the joint venture, which includes capital calls totaling $3 million each in October 2023 and June 2021 that the Company elected to participate in. Additionally, the Company has contributed approximately 209 acres of land with a total fair value of approximately $69 million, which includes a contribution of 186 acres of land, with a fair value of $61 million, on February 12, 2021. The Company has no further obligation to contribute additional real estate or cash. During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company recorded $64 million of income related to the investment, primarily due to the joint venture’s gain on the sale of a land parcel. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company’s investment in the joint venture was $147 million and $80 million, respectively.
NeoGames
The acquired net assets of William Hill included an investment in NeoGames S.A. (“NeoGames”), a global leader of iLottery solutions and services to national and state-regulated lotteries, and other investments. On September 16, 2021, the Company sold a portion of its shares of NeoGames common stock for $136 million which decreased its ownership interest from 24.5% to approximately 8.4%. Additionally, on March 14, 2022 the Company sold its remaining 2 million shares at fair value for $26 million. During the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, the Company recorded losses related to the investment in NeoGames of $34 million and $54 million, respectively, which is included within Other income (loss) in the Statements of Operations.
Note 6. Property and Equipment
Property and equipment are stated at cost, except for assets acquired in our business combinations which were adjusted for fair value under Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 805. Internal use software costs are capitalized during the application development stage. Costs of major improvements are capitalized, while costs of normal repairs and maintenance are charged to expense as incurred. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the asset as noted in the table below, or the term of the lease, whichever is less. Gains or losses on the disposal of property and equipment are included in operating income. Useful lives of each asset class are generally as follows:
Buildings and improvements3 to 40 years
Land improvements12 to 40 years
Furniture, fixtures and equipment3 to 15 years
Riverboats30 years
A portion of our property and equipment is subject to various operating leases for which we are the lessor. Leased property includes our hotel rooms, convention space and retail space through various short-term and long-term operating leases. See Note 10 for further discussion of our leases.
Table of Contents
78

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
The Company evaluates its property and equipment and other long-lived assets for impairment whenever indicators of impairment exist. The Company compares the estimated future cash flows of the asset, on an undiscounted basis, to the carrying value of the asset. If the undiscounted cash flows exceed the carrying value, no impairment is indicated. If the undiscounted cash flows do not exceed the carrying value, then an impairment charge may be recorded for any difference between fair value and the carrying value. All recognized impairment losses are recorded as operating expenses, unless the assets represent a discontinued operation. See Note 4 for further discussion of impairment on assets previously held for sale.
Property and Equipment, Net
December 31,
(In millions)20232022
Land$2,088 $2,092 
Buildings, riverboats, and leasehold and land improvements13,543 13,094 
Furniture, fixtures, and equipment2,409 2,054 
Construction in progress762 351 
Total property and equipment18,802 17,591 
Less: accumulated depreciation(4,046)(2,993)
Total property and equipment, net$14,756 $14,598 
Depreciation Expense
Years Ended December 31,
(In millions)202320222021
Depreciation expense$1,117 $1,018 $987 
Depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the asset or the related lease.
Note 7. Goodwill and Intangible Assets, net
The purchase price of an acquisition is allocated to the underlying assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon their estimated fair values at the date of acquisition. The Company determines the estimated fair values after review and consideration of relevant information including discounted cash flows, quoted market prices, and estimates made by management. To the extent the purchase price exceeds the fair value of the net identifiable tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed, such excess is recorded as goodwill.
Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets must be reviewed for impairment at least annually and between annual test dates in certain circumstances. The Company performs its annual impairment tests as of October 1 of each fiscal year. The Company performs this assessment more frequently if impairment indicators exist. We utilized a combined income approach using a discounted cash flow method and a printed copy will be deliveredguideline public company method to determine the fair value of our goodwill. The Company performed the annual goodwill impairment test by comparing the fair value of each reporting unit with its carrying amount. The Company determines the estimated fair value of each reporting unit based on request by writinga combination of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”), valuation multiples, and estimated future cash flows discounted at rates commensurate with the capital structure and cost of capital of comparable market participants, giving appropriate consideration to the Corporate Secretary at Eldorado Resorts, Inc., c/o Corporate Secretary, 100 West Liberty Street, Suite 1150, Reno, NV 89501. We intend to satisfyprevailing borrowing rates within the disclosure requirement regarding certain amendments to, or waivers from, provisionscasino industry in general, and expected sales proceeds. The Company also evaluates the aggregate fair value of all of its codereporting units and other non-operating assets in comparison to its aggregate debt and equity market capitalization at the test date. EBITDA multiples and discounted cash flows are common measures used to value businesses in the industry.
Indefinite-lived intangible assets consist primarily of ethicstrademarks, Caesars Rewards and expenditures associated with obtaining racing and gaming licenses. Indefinite-lived intangible assets are not subject to amortization but are subject to an annual impairment test. If the carrying amount of an indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess amount.
Trademarks and Caesars Rewards were valued using the relief from royalty method, which presumes that without ownership of such trademarks or loyalty program, the Company would have to make a stream of payments to a brand or franchise owner in return for the right to use their name or program. By virtue of this asset, the Company avoids any such payments and records the related intangible value of the Company’s ownership of the brand name or program.
Table of Contents
79

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Gaming rights represent intangible assets acquired from the purchase of a gaming entity located in a gaming jurisdiction where competition is limited, such as when only a limited number of gaming operators are allowed to operate in the jurisdiction. These gaming license rights are not subject to amortization as the Company has determined that they have indefinite useful lives. For gaming jurisdictions with high barriers of renewal of the gaming rights, such as material costs of renewal, the gaming rights are deemed to have a finite useful life and are amortized over the expected useful life. We used the Excess Earnings Method and a Cost Approach for estimating fair value for these gaming rights.
Finite-lived intangible assets consist of trade names, customer relationships, reacquired rights, and technology acquired in business conduct by posting such informationcombinations. Amortization is recorded using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the asset. The Company evaluates for impairment whenever indicators of impairment exist. When indicators are noted, the Company then compares estimated future cash flows, undiscounted, to the carrying value of the asset. If the undiscounted cash flows exceed the carrying value, no impairment is recorded. Impairment charges are presented on the statements of operations.
As a result of the finalized and approved capital and operating plans and the completion of the annual impairment testing for the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company recognized impairment charges in our website.

Regional segment. These impairments were primarily due to a decrease in projected future cash flows at certain regional properties due increased competition. The Company identified one reporting unit with an estimated fair value of the associated gaming rights below the carrying value and recorded an impairment of $81 million. In addition, the Company identified one reporting unit with an estimated fair value below its carrying value and we recorded an impairment of $14 million to goodwill.
During the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company recognized impairment charges in our Regional segment related to goodwill and gaming rights totaling $78 million and $30 million, respectively, due to an increase in the related discount rates, which represents the higher required cost of capital as a result of the macroeconomic environment and projected outlook.
In December 2021, the Company approved a capital plan which included the planned rebranding of certain of our properties. The Company utilized an income approach to determine the fair value of the trademarks subject to rebranding based on their expected future cash flows, which resulted in an impairment charge of $102 million during the year ended December 31, 2021. The adjusted carrying values of these trademarks were amortized over their respective useful lives.
Changes in Carrying Value of Goodwill by Segment
(In millions)Las VegasRegionalCaesars DigitalManaged and BrandedCEI Total
Gross Goodwill:
Balance as of January 1, 2022$6,889 $3,093 $1,198 $— $11,180 
Other (a)
— — — 
Balance as of December 31, 20226,889 3,093 1,204 — 11,186 
Accumulated Impairment:
Balance as of January 1, 2022— (104)— — (104)
Impairment— (78)— — (78)
Balance as of December 31, 2022— (182)— — (182)
Net carrying value, as of December 31, 2022$6,889 $2,911 $1,204 $— $11,004 
Gross Goodwill:
Balance as of January 1, 2023$6,889 $3,093 $1,204 $— $11,186 
Other— — — — — 
Balance as of December 31, 20236,889 3,093 1,204 — 11,186 
Accumulated Impairment:
Balance as of January 1, 2023— (182)— — (182)
Impairment— (14)— — (14)
Balance as of December 31, 2023— (196)— — (196)
Net carrying value, as of December 31, 2023 (b)
$6,889 $2,897 $1,204 $— $10,990 
____________________
(a)See Note 3 for further detail. Purchase price allocation finalized in 2022.
(b)$1.0 billion of goodwill within our Regional segment is associated with reporting units with zero or negative carrying value.
Table of Contents
80

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Changes in Carrying Amount of Intangible Assets Other than Goodwill
AmortizingNon-AmortizingTotal
(In millions)202320222023202220232022
Balance as of January 1$1,060 $1,209 $3,654 $3,711 $4,714 $4,920 
Impairment— — (81)(30)(81)(30)
Amortization expense(144)(187)— — (144)(187)
Acquisition of gaming rights and trademarks30 10 34 11 
Other— 28 — (28)— — 
Balance as of December 31$946 $1,060 $3,577 $3,654 $4,523 $4,714 
Gross Carrying Amount and Accumulated Amortization of Intangible Assets Other Than Goodwill
December 31, 2023December 31, 2022
(Dollars in millions)Useful LifeGross Carrying AmountAccumulated AmortizationNet Carrying AmountGross Carrying AmountAccumulated AmortizationNet Carrying Amount
Amortizing intangible assets
Customer relationships3 - 7 years$587 $(360)$227 $587 $(276)$311 
Gaming rights and other10 - 34 years242 (28)214 212 (16)196 
Trademarks15 years313 (91)222 313 (73)240 
Reacquired rights24 years250 (28)222 250 (17)233 
Technology6 years110 (49)61 110 (30)80 
$1,502 $(556)946 $1,472 $(412)1,060 
Non-amortizing intangible assets
Trademarks1,998 1,998 
Gaming rights1,056 1,133 
Caesars Rewards523 523 
3,577 3,654 
Total amortizing and non-amortizing intangible assets, net$4,523 $4,714 
Amortization expense with respect to intangible assets for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 totaled $144 million, $187 million and $139 million, respectively, which is included in Depreciation and amortization in the Statements of Operations.
Estimated Five-Year Amortization
Years Ended December 31,
(In millions)20242025202620272028
Estimated annual amortization expense$130 $122 $122 $80 $43 

Item 11.

Executive Compensation.

Note 8. Fair Value Measurements

Marketable Securities 
Marketable securities consist primarily of trading securities held by the Company’s captive insurance subsidiary and deferred compensation plans. The estimated fair values of the Company’s marketable securities are determined on an individual asset basis based upon quoted prices of identical assets available in active markets (Level 1), quoted prices of identical assets in inactive markets, or quoted prices for similar assets in active and inactive markets (Level 2), and represent the amounts the Company would expect to receive if the Company sold these marketable securities. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company held $2 million in Level 1 securities and as of December 31, 2022 held an additional $2 million in Level 2 securities.
The Company held common shares of Flutter Entertainment PLC, which is a publicly traded company with a readily determinable share price. On July 7, 2021, the Company sold the remaining shares for $9 million and recorded a loss of $1 million on the sale date. Gains and losses have been included in Other income (loss) in the Statements of Operations.
Derivative Instruments
The Company does not purchase or hold any derivative financial instruments for trading purposes.
Table of Contents
81

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Forward contracts
The Company entered into several foreign exchange forward contracts with third parties to hedge the risk of fluctuations in the foreign exchange rates between USD and GBP. During the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, the Company recorded a gain of $73 million and $23 million, respectively, related to forward contracts, which was recorded in the Other income (loss) in the Statements of Operations. All forward contracts were settled as of July 1, 2022.
Interest Rate Swap Derivatives
The Company assumed Caesars Entertainment Corporation’s interest rate swaps to manage the mix of assumed debt between fixed and variable rate instruments. During the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company was party to four interest rate swap agreements to fix the interest rate on $1.3 billion of variable rate debt related to the CRC Credit Agreement. The interest rate swaps were designated as cash flow hedging instruments. The difference to be paid or received under the terms of the interest rate swap agreements was accrued as interest rates changed and recognized as an adjustment to interest expense at settlement. The term of the interest rate swaps ended on December 31, 2022.
Valuation Methodology
The estimated fair values of our interest rate swap derivative instruments were derived from market prices obtained from dealer quotes for similar, but not identical, assets or liabilities. Such quotes represented the estimated amounts we would receive or pay to terminate the contracts. The interest rate swap derivative instruments were included in either Other long-term assets, net or Other long-term liabilities on our Balance Sheets. Our derivatives were recorded at their fair values, adjusted for the credit rating of the counterparty if the derivative was an asset, or adjusted for the credit rating of the Company if the derivative was a liability. None of our derivative instruments were offset and all were classified as Level 2.
Financial Statement Effect
The effect of interest rate swaps designated as hedging instruments on the Balance Sheets for amounts transferred into Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (“AOCI”) before tax was a gain of $28 million during the year ended December 31, 2022. AOCI reclassified to Interest expense on the Statements of Operations was $12 million for year ended December 31, 2022. Net settlement of these interest rate swaps resulted in the reclassification of deferred gains and losses within AOCI to be reclassified to the income statement as a component of interest expense as settlement occurred.
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
The changes in AOCI by component, net of tax, for the periods through December 31, 2023 and 2022 are shown below.
(In millions)Unrealized Net Gains on Derivative InstrumentsForeign Currency Translation AdjustmentsOtherTotal
Balances as of December 31, 2021$73 $(36)$(1)$36 
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications35 — 44 
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income12 — — 12 
Total other comprehensive income, net of tax21 35 — 56 
Balances as of December 31, 2022$94 $(1)$(1)$92 
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications— 
Total other comprehensive income, net of tax— 
Balances as of December 31, 2023$94 $— $$97 
Table of Contents
82

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Note 9. Accrued Other Liabilities
Accrued other liabilities consisted of the following:
December 31,
(In millions)20232022
Contract and contract related liabilities (See Note 13)
$749 $747 
Accrued payroll and other related liabilities283 283 
Accrued taxes202 195 
Self-insurance claims and reserves (See Note 11)
200 203 
Disputed claims liability26 26 
Operating lease liability (See Note 10)
23 50 
Accrued marketing23 20 
Other accruals342 404 
Total accrued other liabilities$1,848 $1,928 
Disputed Claims Liability
The disputed claims liability represents certain remaining unsecured claims related to Caesars Entertainment Corporation’s bankruptcy assumed from the Merger for which we have estimated the fair value of the remaining liability.
Note 10. Leases
The Company has operating and finance leases for various real estate and equipment. Certain of the Company’s lease agreements include rental payments based on a percentage of sales over specified contractual amounts, rental payments adjusted periodically for inflation and rental payments based on usage. The Company’s leases include options to extend the lease term one month to 74 years. The Company’s lease agreements do not contain any material restrictive covenants, other than those described below.
Lessee Arrangements
Operating Leases
The Company leases real estate and equipment used in operations from third parties. As of December 31, 2023, the remaining term of the Company’s operating leases ranged from 1 to 68 years with various extension options available, if the Company elects to exercise them. However, the Company’s remaining terms only include extension options that we have determined are reasonably certain as of December 31, 2023. In addition to minimum rental commitments, certain of the Company’s operating leases provide for contingent rentals based on a percentage of revenues in excess of specified amounts. The Company does not include costs associated with non-lease components in the lease costs disclosed in the table below. During the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company obtained $41 million and $43 million, respectively, of right-of-use (“ROU”) assets in exchange for new lease liabilities. During the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company disposed of $7 million and $12 million, respectively, of ROU assets and lease liabilities.
Leases recorded on the balance sheet consist of the following:
December 31,
(In millions)Classification on the Balance Sheet20232022
Assets:
Operating lease ROU assets (a)
Other long-term assets, net$622 $639 
Liabilities:
Current operating lease liabilities (a)
Accrued other liabilities23 50 
Non-current operating lease liabilities (a)
Other long-term liabilities728 710 
___________________
(a)As noted above, the Company has elected the short-term lease measurement and recognition exemption and do not establish ROU assets or liabilities for operating leases with terms of 12 months or less.
Table of Contents
83

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Lease Terms and Discount RateDecember 31,
20232022
Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term (in years)32.132.2
Weighted Average Discount Rate8.1 %8.3 %
Components of Lease Expense
Years Ended December 31,
(In millions)202320222021
Operating lease expense$96 $132 $128 
Short-term and variable lease expense159 138 104 
Total operating lease costs$255 $270 $232 
Supplemental cash flow information related to leases is as follows:
Cash payments included in the measurement of lease liabilities
Years Ended December 31,
(In millions)202320222021
Operating cash flows for operating leases$116 $110 $96 
Maturities of Lease Liabilities
(In millions)Operating Leases
2024$81 
202577 
202676 
202776 
202874 
Thereafter1,919 
Total future minimum lease payments2,303 
Less: present value factor(1,552)
Total lease liability$751 
Finance Leases
The Company has finance leases for certain equipment and real estate. As of December 31, 2023, the Company’s finance leases had remaining lease terms of up to approximately 35 years, some of which include options to extend the lease terms in one month increments. The Company’s finance lease ROU assets and liabilities were $69 million and $77 million as of December 31, 2023, respectively, and $73 million and $78 million as of December 31, 2022, respectively.
Financing Obligations
VICI Leases & Golf Course Use Agreement
The fair value of the real estate assets and the related failed sale-leaseback financing obligations were estimated based on the present value of the estimated future lease payments over the lease term of 15 years, plus renewal options, using an imputed discount rate of approximately 11.01%.
CEI leases certain real property assets from VICI under the following agreements: (i) for a portfolio of properties located throughout the United States (the “Regional Lease”), (ii) for Caesars Palace Las Vegas and Harrah’s Las Vegas (the “Las Vegas Lease”), and (iii) for Harrah’s Joliet (the “Joliet Lease”), (collectively, “VICI Leases”). The lease agreements, inclusive of all amendments, include (i) a 15-year initial term with four five-year renewal options, (ii) initial annual fixed rent payments of $1.1 billion, subject to annual escalation provisions based on the Consumer Price Index (“CPI”) and a 2% floor which commenced in lease year two of the initial terms and (iii) a variable element based on net revenues of the underlying leased properties, commencing in lease year eight of the initial term.
Table of Contents
84

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
The Regional Lease includes a Put-Call Right Agreement whereby the Company may require VICI to purchase and lease back (as lessor) or whereby VICI may require the Company to sell to VICI and lease back (as lessee) the real estate components of the gaming and racetrack facilities of Harrah’s Hoosier Park Racing & Casino and Horseshoe Indianapolis (the “Centaur properties”). Election to exercise the option by either party must be made during the election period beginning January 1, 2022 and ending December 31, 2024. Upon either party exercising their option, the Centaur properties would be sold at a price and leased back to CEI in accordance to the terms and conditions of the Put-Call Right Agreement.
The Golf Course Use Agreement between the Company and VICI has a 35-year term (inclusive of all renewal periods), whereby the Company agrees to pay initial annual membership and use fees totaling $14 million, subject to annual escalation provisions similar to those described above in the Regional Lease, as well as certain per-round fees set forth in the agreement.
GLPI Leases
The fair value of the real estate assets and the related failed sale-leaseback financing obligations were estimated based on the present value of the estimated future lease payments over the lease term of 35 years, including renewal options, using an imputed discount rate of approximately 9.75%. The value of the failed sale-leaseback financing obligations is dependent upon assumptions regarding the amount of the lease payments and the estimated discount rate of the lease payments required by a market participant.
CEI leases certain real property assets from GLPI under the Master Lease (as amended, the “GLPI Master Lease”). The GLPI Master Lease, encompassing a portfolio of properties within the United States, provides for the lease of land, buildings, structures and other improvements on the land, easements and similar appurtenances to the land and improvements relating to the operation of the leased properties. The GLPI Master Lease, inclusive of all amendments, provides for (i) an initial term of 20 years (through September 2038), with four five-year renewals at the Company’s option, (ii) annual land and building base rent of $24 million and $63 million, respectively, (iii) escalating provisions of building base rent equal to 101.25% of the rent for the preceding year for lease years five and six, 101.75% for lease years seven and eight and 102% for each lease year thereafter and (iv) relief from the operating, capital expenditure and financial covenants in the event of involuntary closures. The GLPI Master Lease does not provide the Company with an option to purchase the leased property or the ability to terminate its obligations under the GLPI Master Lease prior to its expiration without GLPI’s consent.
On May 5, 2022, the Company consummated the sale of the equity interests of Baton Rouge. On November 13, 2023, a third amended and restated master lease was entered into as a result of the removal of Baton Rouge from the properties included under the GLPI Master Lease.
The Lumière Lease was entered into by the Company and GLPI, whereby the Company sold the real estate underlying Horseshoe St. Louis, formerly known as Lumière, to GLPI and leased back the property under a long-term financing obligation. The Lumière Lease, inclusive of all amendments, provides for (i) an initial term commencing on September 29, 2020 and ending on October 31, 2033, (ii) four five-year renewal options, (iii) annual rent payments of $23 million, (iv) escalation provisions commencing in lease year two equal to 101.25% of the rent for the preceding year for lease years two through five, 101.75% for lease years six and seven and 102% for each lease year thereafter, (v) maintaining a minimum of 1.20:1 adjusted revenue to rent ratio and (vi) certain relief under the financial covenant in the event of involuntary closures.
The Company continues to reflect the real estate assets related to the failed sale-lease back transactions on the Balance Sheets in Property and equipment, net as if the Company was the legal owner, and continues to recognize depreciation expense over their estimated useful lives.
The future minimum payments related to the GLPI Leases, including the Lumière Lease, and VICI Leases financing obligation, as amended, at December 31, 2023 were as follows:
(In millions)GLPI LeasesVICI Leases
2024$112 $1,205 
2025113 1,221 
2026115 1,239 
2027117 1,260 
2028119 1,292 
Thereafter4,368 43,937 
Total future payments4,944 50,154 
Less: Amounts representing interest(3,926)(39,614)
Plus: Residual values240 893 
Financing obligation$1,258 $11,433 
Table of Contents
85

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Cash payments made relating to the Company’s long-term financing obligations during the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 were as follows:
GLPI Leases (a)
VICI Leases (a)
December 31,December 31,
(In millions)202320222021202320222021
Cash paid for principal$$— $— $$$
Cash paid for interest111 110 109 1,175 1,095 983 
____________________
(a)For the initial periods of the VICI and GLPI Leases, cash payments are less than the interest expense recognized, which causes the failed-sale leaseback obligation to increase during the initial years of the lease term.
Lease Covenants
The GLPI Leases and VICI Leases contain certain covenants requiring minimum capital expenditures based on a percentage of net revenues along with maintaining certain financial ratios. The Company was in compliance with all applicable covenants as of December 31, 2023.
Lessor Arrangements
Lodging Arrangements
Lodging arrangements are considered short-term and generally consist of lease and nonlease components. The lease component is the predominant component of the arrangement and consists of the fees charged for lodging. The nonlease components primarily consist of resort fees and other miscellaneous items. As the timing and pattern of transfer of both the lease and nonlease components are over the course of the lease term, we have elected to combine the revenue generated from lease and nonlease components into a single lease component based on the predominant component in the arrangement. During the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, we recognized $2.1 billion, $2.0 billion and $1.6 billion, respectively, in lease revenue related to lodging arrangements, which is included in Hotel revenues in the Statements of Operations.
Conventions
Convention arrangements are considered short-term and generally consist of lease and nonlease components. The lease component is the predominant component of the arrangement and consists of fees charged for the use of meeting space. The nonlease components primarily consist of food and beverage and audio/visual services. Revenue from conventions is included in Food and beverage revenue in the Statement of Operations, and during the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, lease revenue related to conventions was $40 million, $34 million and $7 million, respectively.
Real Estate Operating Leases
We enter into long-term real estate leasing arrangements with third-party lessees at our properties. As of December 31, 2023, the remaining terms of these operating leases ranged from 1 to 82 years, some of which include options to extend the lease term for up to five years. In addition to minimum rental commitments, certain of our operating leases provide for contingent payments including contingent rentals based on a percentage of revenues in excess of specified amounts and reimbursements for common area maintenance and utilities charges. As the timing and pattern of transfer of both the lease and nonlease components are over the course of the lease term, we have elected to combine the revenue generated from lease and nonlease components into a single lease component based on the predominant component in the arrangement. In addition, to maintain the value of our leased assets, certain leases include specific maintenance requirements of the lessees or maintenance is performed by the Company on behalf of the lessees. During the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, we recognized $166 million, $168 million and $149 million, respectively, of real estate lease revenue, which is included in Other revenue in the Statement of Operations.Real estate lease revenue includes $68 million, $64 million and $45 million of variable rental income for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
Table of Contents
86

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Maturities of Lease Receivables
(In millions)Operating Leases
2024$70 
202564 
202662 
202756 
202850 
Thereafter689 
Total$991 
Note 11. Litigation, Commitments and Contingencies
Litigation
General
We are a party to various legal proceedings, which have arisen in the normal course of our business. Such proceedings can be costly, time consuming and unpredictable and, therefore, no assurance can be given that the final outcome of such proceedings will not materially impact our consolidated financial condition or results of operations. Estimated losses are accrued for these proceedings when the loss is probable and can be estimated. While we maintain insurance coverage that we believe is adequate to mitigate the risks of such proceedings, no assurance can be given that the amount or scope of existing insurance coverage will be sufficient to cover losses arising from such matters. The current liability for the estimated losses associated with these proceedings is not material to our consolidated financial condition and those estimated losses are not expected to have a material impact on our results of operations.
Cybersecurity Incident
On September 14, 2023, we announced that an unauthorized actor had gained access to our information technology network as a result of a social engineering attack on an outsourced IT support vendor used by the Company, and acquired a copy of, among other data, our loyalty program database (“Data Incident”).
As a result of the Data Incident, numerous putative class action lawsuits have been filed against us purporting to represent various classes of persons whose personal information was affected by the Data Incident. These putative class actions assert a variety of common law and statutory claims based on allegations that we failed to use reasonable security procedures and practices to safeguard customers’ personal information, and seek monetary and statutory damages, injunctive relief and other related relief. In addition to those putative class action lawsuits, individual claims have been filed or threatened against us as well.
In addition, we have received inquiries from numerous state regulators related to the Data Incident. We have responded or are in the process of responding to these inquiries and are cooperating fully with regulators.
While we intend to vigorously defend ourselves in the above-described proceedings, we believe it is reasonably possible that we may incur losses associated therewith. It is not possible at this Itemtime to estimate the amount of loss or range of loss, if any, that might result from adverse judgments, settlements, or other resolution given the stage of these proceedings, the absence of specific allegations regarding the alleged damages, the uncertainty as to the certification of a class or classes and the size of any certified class, if applicable, and/or the lack of resolution of significant factual and legal issues. Moreover, additional lawsuits and claims related to the Data Incident may be asserted and governmental agencies may open additional inquiries or investigations into the Data Incident. We have received, and continue to pursue, reimbursements from insurance carriers for costs incurred as a result of the Data Incident.
We have incurred, and may continue to incur, certain expenses related to the Data Incident, including expenses to respond to, remediate and investigate this matter. The full scope of the costs and related impacts of this incident, including the extent to which these costs will be offset by our cybersecurity insurance or potential indemnification claims against third parties, has not been determined. We are unable to predict the full impact of this incident and its impact on guest behavior in the future, including whether a change in our guests’ behavior could negatively impact our financial condition and results of operations on an ongoing basis. Based on our assessment, the incident has not had a material impact, and we do not believe the incident has materially affected or will materially affect us, including our operations, business strategy, results of operations, or financial condition.
Table of Contents
87

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Contractual Commitments
Capital Commitments
Harrah’s New Orleans
In April 2020, the Company and the State of Louisiana, by and through the Louisiana Gaming Control Board, entered into an Amended and Restated Casino Operating Contract. Additionally, the Company, New Orleans Building Corporation and the City entered into a Second Amended and Restated Lease Agreement. Based on these amendments related to Harrah’s New Orleans, the Company is hereby incorporatedrequired to make a capital investment of $325 million on or around Harrah’s New Orleans by July 15, 2024. The capital investment will involve the rebranding of the property to Caesars New Orleans which includes a renovation and full interior and exterior redesign, updated casino floor, new culinary experiences and a new 340 room hotel tower. The project has a current capital plan of approximately $430 million, and as of December 31, 2023, total capital expenditures have been $289 million since the project began.
Atlantic City
As required by the New Jersey Gaming Control Board, in 2020, the Company funded $400 million in escrow to provide funds for a three year capital expenditure plan in the state of New Jersey. The capital plan included significant room renovations at both Caesars Atlantic City and Harrah’s Atlantic City, as well as the addition of new restaurants with celebrity partners. During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company met its commitment and exhausted the remaining funds in the escrow account.
Sports Sponsorship/Partnership Obligations
The Company has agreements with certain professional sports leagues and teams, sporting event facilities and media companies for tickets, suites, and advertising, marketing, promotional and sponsorship opportunities including communication with partner customer databases. Additionally, a selection of such partnerships provide Caesars with exclusivity to access the aforementioned rights within the casino and/or sports betting category. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, obligations related to these agreements were $605 million and $898 million, respectively, with contracts extending through 2040. These obligations include leasing of event suites that are generally considered short term leases for which we do not record a right of use asset or lease liability. The Company recognizes expenses in the period services are received in accordance with the various agreements. In addition, assets or liabilities may be recorded related to the timing of payments as required by the respective agreement.
Self-Insurance
The Company is self-insured for workers compensation and other risk insurance, as well as health insurance and general liability. The Company’s total estimated self-insurance liability was $200 million and $203 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, which is included in Accrued other liabilities in our Balance Sheets.
The assumptions utilized by our actuaries are subject to significant uncertainty and if outcomes differ from these assumptions or events develop or progress in a negative manner, the Company could experience a material adverse effect and additional liabilities may be recorded in the future.
Contingencies
Weather Disruption - Lake Charles
On August 27, 2020, Hurricane Laura made landfall on Lake Charles as a Category 4 storm severely damaging the Isle of Capri Casino Lake Charles (“Lake Charles”). During the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company reached a final settlement agreement with the insurance carriers for a total amount of $128 million, before our insurance deductible of $25 million. The Company has received a total of $103 million related to damaged fixed assets, remediation costs and business interruption.
The Company recorded gains of $38 million and $21 million during the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively, which are included in Transaction and other costs, net in our Statements of Operations, as proceeds received for the cost to replace damaged property were in excess of respective carrying value of the assets. The construction of our new land-based casino, Horseshoe Lake Charles, was completed and reopened in December 2022.
Table of Contents
88

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Note 12. Long-Term Debt
December 31, 2023December 31, 2022
(Dollars in millions)Final MaturityRatesFace ValueBook ValueBook Value
Secured Debt
CEI Revolving Credit Facility2028variable$— $— $— 
CEI Term Loan A2028variable712 710 747 
CEI Term Loan B2030variable2,481 2,432 — 
CRC Senior Secured Notes (a)
20255.75%989 983 979 
CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2025 (a)
20256.25%3,399 3,374 3,360 
CEI Senior Secured Notes due 203020307.00%2,000 1,978 — 
Baltimore Revolving Credit FacilityN/AN/A— — — 
Baltimore Term LoanN/AN/A— — 262 
Convention Center Mortgage LoanN/AN/A— — 400 
CRC Incremental Term LoanN/AN/A— — 972 
CRC Term LoanN/AN/A— — 3,243 
Unsecured Debt
CEI Senior Notes due 202720278.125%1,611 1,593 1,589 
CEI Senior Notes due 202920294.625%1,200 1,188 1,186 
Special Improvement District Bonds20374.30%45 45 47 
Long-term notes and other payables
Total debt12,439 12,305 12,787 
Current portion of long-term debt(65)(65)(108)
Deferred finance charges associated with the CEI Revolving Credit Facility— (16)(20)
Long-term debt$12,374 $12,224 $12,659 
Unamortized discounts and deferred finance charges$150 $318 
Fair value$12,416 
____________________
(a)Refer to “Subsequent Amendment to the CEI Credit Agreement and issuance of New Senior Secured Notes” for a discussion of the repayment of these notes.
Annual Estimated Debt Service Requirements
Years Ended December 31,
(In millions)2024
2025 (a)
202620272028ThereafterTotal
Annual maturities of long-term debt$65 $4,453 $65 $1,676 $587 $5,593 $12,439 
Estimated interest payments850 800 520 510 360 450 3,490 
Total debt service obligation (b)
$915 $5,253 $585 $2,186 $947 $6,043 $15,929 
____________________
(a)Maturities of $4.4 billion in 2025 were repaid with the net proceeds of the $2.9 billion CEI Term Loan B-1 and the $1.5 billion CEI Senior Secured Notes, due 2032. See “Subsequent Amendment to the CEI Credit Agreement and issuance of New Senior Secured Notes” below.
(b)Debt principal payments are estimated amounts based on contractual maturity and scheduled repayment dates. Interest payments are estimated based on the forward-looking SOFR curve, where applicable. Actual payments may differ from these estimates.
Current Portion of Long-Term Debt
The current portion of long-term debt as of December 31, 2023 includes the principal payments on the term loans, other unsecured borrowings, and special improvement district bonds that are contractually due within 12 months. The Company may, from time to time, seek to repurchase or prepay its outstanding indebtedness. Any such purchases or repayments may be funded by existing cash balances or the incurrence of debt. The amount and timing of any repurchase will be based on business and market conditions, capital availability, compliance with debt covenants and other considerations.
Table of Contents
89

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Debt Discounts or Premiums and Deferred Finance Charges
Debt discounts or premiums and deferred finance charges incurred in connection with the issuance of debt are amortized to interest expense based on the related debt agreements primarily using the effective interest method. Unamortized discounts are written off and included in our gain or loss calculations to the extent we extinguish debt prior to the original maturity or scheduled payment dates.
Net amortization of the debt issuance costs and the discount and/or premium associated with the Company’s indebtedness totaled $48 million, $139 million and $177 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Amortization of debt issuance costs is computed using the effective interest method and is included in interest expense.
Fair Value
The fair value of debt has been calculated primarily based on the borrowing rates available as of December 31, 2023 and based on market quotes of our publicly traded debt. We classify the fair value of debt within Level 1 and Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy.
Terms of Outstanding Debt
CEI Term Loans and CEI Revolving Credit Facility
CEI is party to a credit agreement, dated as of July 20, 2020, with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, U.S. Bank National Association, as collateral agent, and certain banks and other financial institutions and lenders party thereto (the “CEI Credit Agreement”), which, as amended, provides for the CEI Revolving Credit Facility in an aggregate principal amount of $2.25 billion (the “CEI Revolving Credit Facility”). The CEI Revolving Credit Facility contains reserves of $40 million which are available only for certain permitted uses.
On October 5, 2022, Caesars entered into a third amendment to the CEI Credit Agreement (the “Third Amendment”) pursuant to which the Company (a) incurred a senior secured term loan in an aggregate principal amount of $750 million (the “CEI Term Loan A”) as a new term loan under the credit agreement, (b) amended and extended the CEI Revolving Credit Facility under the CEI Credit Agreement (the CEI Revolving Credit Facility, as so amended, the “Amended CEI Revolving Credit Facility” and, together with the CEI Term Loan A, the “Senior Credit Facilities”), (c) increased the aggregate principal amount of the CEI Revolving Credit Facility to $2.25 billion, and (d) made certain other amendments to the CEI Credit Agreement. Both the Amended CEI Revolving Credit Facility and the new CEI Term Loan A mature on January 31, 2028, subject to a springing maturity in the event certain other long-term debt of Caesars is not extended or repaid. The Amended CEI Revolving Credit Facility includes a letter of credit sub-facility of $388 million. The CEI Term Loan A requires scheduled quarterly payments in amounts equal to 1.25% of the original aggregate principal amount of the CEI Term Loan A, with the balance payable at maturity. The Company may make voluntary prepayments of the CEI Term Loan A at any time prior to maturity at par.
Borrowings under the Senior Credit Facilities bear interest paid monthly, at a rate equal to, at the Company’s option, either (a) a forward-looking term rate based on Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“Term SOFR”) for the applicable interest period plus an adjustment of 0.10% per annum (“Adjusted Term SOFR”), subject to a floor of 0% or (b) a base rate (the “Base Rate”) determined by reference to our Proxy Statement,the highest of (i) the rate of interest per annum last quoted by The Wall Street Journal as the Prime Rate in the United States, (ii) the federal funds rate plus 0.50% per annum and (iii) the one-month Adjusted Term SOFR plus 1.00% per annum, in each case, plus an applicable margin. Such applicable margin is 2.25% per annum in the case of any Adjusted Term SOFR loan and 1.25% per annum in the case of any Base Rate loan, subject to be filedthree 0.25% step-downs based on the Company’s net total leverage ratio. In addition, on a quarterly basis, the Company is required to pay each lender under the Amended CEI Revolving Credit Facility a commitment fee in respect of any unused commitments under the Amended CEI Revolving Credit Facility in the amount of 0.35% per annum of the principal amount of the unused commitments of such lender, subject to three 0.05% step-downs based on the Company’s net total leverage ratio.
Table of Contents
90

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
On February 6, 2023, Caesars entered into an Incremental Assumption Agreement No. 2 pursuant to which the Company incurred a new senior secured term loan facility in an aggregate principal amount of $2.5 billion (the “CEI Term Loan B” and, together with the Securities and Exchange Commission no later than April 30, 2018, pursuant to Regulation 14ACEI Term Loan A, the “CEI Term Loans”) as a new term loan under the Securities Act.

Item 12.

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters.

CEI Credit Agreement. The information required by this Item is hereby incorporatedCEI Term Loan B requires scheduled quarterly principal payments in amounts equal to 0.25% of the original aggregate principal amount of the CEI Term Loan B, with the balance payable at maturity. Borrowings under the CEI Term Loan B bear interest, paid monthly, at a rate equal to, at the Company’s option, either (a) a forward-looking term rate based on the Adjusted Term SOFR, subject to a floor of 0.50% or (b) a base rate (the “TLB Base Rate”) determined by reference to the highest of (i) the “Prime Rate” in the United States, (ii) the federal funds rate plus 0.50% per annum and (iii) the one-month Adjusted Term SOFR plus 1.00% per annum, in each case, plus an applicable margin. Such applicable margin is 3.25% per annum in the case of any Adjusted Term SOFR loan and 2.25% per annum in the case of any TLB Base Rate loan, subject to one 0.25% step-down based on the Company’s net total leverage ratio. The CEI Term Loan B was issued at a price of 99.0% of the principal amount and will mature in February 2030.

The net proceeds from the CEI Term Loan B, along with the net proceeds from the issuance of the CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2030 described below, were used to repay the outstanding principal balance, including accrued and unpaid interest, of both the CRC Term Loan and the CRC Incremental Term Loan.
During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company utilized and fully repaid the CEI Revolving Credit Facility. Such activity is presented in the financing section in the Statements of Cash Flows. As of December 31, 2023, the Company had $2.1 billion of available borrowing capacity under the CEI Revolving Credit Facility, after consideration of $70 million in outstanding letters of credit, $46 million committed for regulatory purposes and the reserves described above.
Subsequent Amendment to the CEI Credit Agreement and issuance of New Senior Secured Notes
On February 6, 2024, the Company entered into an Incremental Assumption Agreement No. 3 pursuant to which the Company incurred a new senior secured incremental term loan in an aggregate principal amount of $2.9 billion (the “CEI Term Loan B-1”) under the CEI Credit Agreement. The CEI Term Loan B-1 requires quarterly principal payments in amounts equal to 0.25% of the original aggregate principal amount of the CEI Term Loan B-1, with the balance payable at maturity. Borrowings under the CEI Term Loan B-1 bear interest at a rate equal to, at the Company’s option, either (a) a forward-looking term rate based on the Term SOFR, subject to a floor of 0.50% or (b) a base rate (the “TLB-1 Base Rate”) determined by reference to the highest of (i) the “Prime Rate” in the United States, (ii) the federal funds rate plus 0.50% per annum and (iii) the one-month Term SOFR plus 1.00% per annum, in each case, plus an applicable margin. Such applicable margin is 2.75% per annum in the case of any Term SOFR loan and 1.75% per annum in the case of any TLB-1 Base Rate loan. The CEI Term Loan B-1 was issued at a price of 99.75% of the principal amount and will mature on February 6, 2031.
Additionally, on February 6, 2024, the Company issued $1.5 billion in aggregate principal amount of 6.50% senior secured notes due 2032 (the “CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2032”) pursuant to an indenture by and among the Company, the subsidiary guarantors party thereto, U.S. Bank Trust Company, National Association, as trustee, and U.S. Bank National Association, as collateral agent. The CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2032 rank equally with all existing and future first-priority lien obligations of the Company and the subsidiary guarantors. The CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2032 will mature on February 15, 2032, with interest paid semi-annually on February 15 and August 15 of each year, commencing August 15, 2024.
The net proceeds from the issuance of the CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2032 and the net proceeds from the CEI Term Loan B-1, together with borrowings under the CEI Revolving Credit Facility, were used to tender, redeem, repurchase, defease, and/or satisfy and discharge any and all of the principal amounts, including accrued and unpaid interest, related expenses and fees of both the 5.75% Senior Secured Notes due 2025 (the “CRC Senior Secured Notes”) and the 6.25% Senior Secured Notes due 2025 (the “CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2025”). As a result of these transactions, the Company estimates that it will incur approximately $50 million of loss on early extinguishment of debt.
CRC Senior Secured Notes due 2025
On July 6, 2020, Colt Merger Sub, Inc. (the “Escrow Issuer”) issued $1.0 billion in aggregate principal amount of the CRC Senior Secured Notes pursuant to an indenture, dated July 6, 2020, by and among the Escrow Issuer, U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee and Credit Suisse AG, Cayman Islands Branch, as collateral agent. The CRC Senior Secured Notes ranked equally with all existing and future first priority lien obligations of CRC, CRC Finco, Inc. and the subsidiary guarantors. The CRC Senior Secured Notes were set to mature on July 1, 2025, with interest payable semi-annually in cash in arrears on January 1 and July 1 of each year.
On February 16, 2024, the Company completed the tender and/or redemption of the CRC Senior Secured Notes with proceeds from a new CEI Term Loan B-1, new CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2032 and borrowings under the CEI Revolving Credit
Table of Contents
91

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Facility, as needed. See “Subsequent Amendment to the CEI Credit Agreement and issuance of New Senior Secured Notes” above.
CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2025
On July 6, 2020, the Escrow Issuer issued $3.4 billion in aggregate principal amount of the CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2025 pursuant to an indenture dated July 6, 2020, by and among the Escrow Issuer, U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee, and U.S. Bank National Association, as collateral agent. The CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2025 ranked equally with all existing and future first-priority lien obligations of the Company and the subsidiary guarantors. The CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2025 were set to mature on July 1, 2025, with interest payable semi-annually in cash in arrears on January 1 and July 1 of each year. On April 5, 2023, the Company purchased $1 million in principal amount of the CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2025.
On February 7, 2024, the Company completed the tender, redemption, and/or satisfaction and discharge of all of the CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2025 with proceeds from a new CEI Term Loan B-1, new CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2032 and borrowings under the CEI Revolving Credit Facility, as needed. See “Subsequent Amendment to the CEI Credit Agreement and issuance of New Senior Secured Notes” above.
CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2030
On February 6, 2023, concurrently with the issuance of the CEI Term Loan B, the Company issued $2.0 billion in aggregate principal amount of 7.00% senior secured notes (the “CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2030”) pursuant to an indenture by and among the Company, the subsidiary guarantors party thereto from time to time, U.S. Bank Trust Company, National Association, as trustee, and U.S. Bank National Association, as collateral agent. The CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2030 rank equally with all existing and future first-priority lien obligations of the Company and the subsidiary guarantors. The CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2030 will mature in February 2030, with interest paid semi-annually on February 15 and August 15 of each year, commencing August 15, 2023.
Baltimore Term Loan and Baltimore Revolving Credit Facility
On July 17, 2023, following the acquisition of the remaining 24.2% equity interest in Horseshoe Baltimore, the Company permanently repaid the outstanding principal balance of Horseshoe Baltimore’s senior secured term loan facility (the “Baltimore Term Loan”). In connection with the repayment, the Company recognized a $3 million loss on the early extinguishment of debt. The Baltimore Term Loan was subject to a variable rate of interest calculated as London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus 4.00% until May 1, 2023, when the Baltimore Term Loan’s benchmark interest rate was amended from LIBOR to the Adjusted Term SOFR plus an applicable adjustment. In addition, Horseshoe Baltimore’s senior secured revolving credit facility (the “Baltimore Revolving Credit Facility”) matured on July 7, 2023. The Baltimore Revolving Credit Facility had borrowing capacity of up to $10 million, subject to a variable rate of interest calculated as Term SOFR plus 4.00%.
Convention Center Mortgage Loan
On September 18, 2020, the Company entered into a loan agreement with VICI, to borrow a 5-year, $400 million Forum Convention Center mortgage loan (the “Mortgage Loan”). The Mortgage Loan bears interest at a rate of, initially, 7.7% per annum, which was set to escalate annually on the anniversary of the closing date up to a maximum interest rate of 8.3% per annum. On May 1, 2023, the Company elected to prepay the outstanding $400 million Mortgage Loan utilizing cash on hand. In connection with the repayment, the Company extended VICI’s call right relating to the CAESARS FORUM convention center from December 31, 2026 to December 31, 2028.
CRC Term Loan and CRC Incremental Term Loan
Caesars Resort Collection (“CRC”) was party to a credit agreement, dated as of December 22, 2017 (as amended, the “CRC Credit Agreement”), which provided for, among other things, an initial $4.7 billion seven-year senior secured term loan (the “CRC Term Loan”), and an incremental $1.8 billion five-year senior secured term loan (the “CRC Incremental Term Loan”).
The CRC Term Loan and the CRC Incremental Term Loan were subject to the terms described below prior to repayment. The Company repaid the $3.4 billion outstanding principal amount of the CRC Term Loan and the $1.0 billion outstanding principal amount of the CRC Incremental Term Loan on February 6, 2023, with proceeds from a new CEI Term Loan B and new CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2030, both of which are described above. Upon the termination of the CRC Term Loan and the CRC Incremental Term Loan, the Company recorded a loss on extinguishment of debt of $197 million.
Borrowings under the CRC Credit Agreement were subject to interest at a rate equal to either (a) LIBOR adjusted for certain additional costs, subject to a floor of 0% or (b) a base rate determined by reference to the highest of (i) the federal funds rate plus 0.50%, (ii) the prime rate as determined by Credit Suisse AG, Cayman Islands Branch, as administrative agent under the
Table of Contents
92

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
CRC Credit Agreement and (iii) the one-month adjusted LIBOR rate plus 1.00%, in each case plus an applicable margin. Such applicable margin was (a) with respect to the CRC Term Loan, 2.75% per annum in the case of any LIBOR loan or 1.75% per annum in the case of any base rate loan and (b) with respect to the CRC Incremental Term Loan, 3.50% per annum in the case of any LIBOR loan or 2.50% in the case of any base rate loan.
CEI Senior Notes due 2027
On July 6, 2020, the Escrow Issuer issued $1.8 billion in aggregate principal amount of 8.125% Senior Notes due 2027 pursuant to an indenture, dated July 6, 2020 (the “CEI Senior Notes due 2027”), by and between the Escrow Issuer and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee. The CEI Senior Notes due 2027 rank equally with all existing and future senior unsecured indebtedness of the Company and the subsidiary guarantors. The CEI Senior Notes due 2027 will mature on July 1, 2027 with interest payable semi-annually in cash in arrears on January 1 and July 1 of each year.
CEI Senior Notes due 2029
On September 24, 2021, the Company issued $1.2 billion in aggregate principal amount of 4.625% Senior Notes due 2029 (the “CEI Senior Notes due 2029”) pursuant to an indenture dated as of September 24, 2021 between the Company and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee. The CEI Senior Notes due 2029 rank equally with all existing and future senior unsecured indebtedness of the Company and the subsidiary guarantors. The CEI Senior Notes due 2029 will mature on October 15, 2029 with interest payable on April 15 and October 15 of each year.
Summary of Debt and Revolving Credit Facility Cash Flows from Financing Activities in 2023
(In millions)Proceeds
Repayments (a)
CEI Revolving Credit Facility$960 $960 
CEI Term Loan A— 38 
CEI Term Loan B2,500 19 
CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2025— 
CEI Senior Secured Notes due 20302,000 — 
Baltimore Term Loan— 267 
Mortgage Loan— 400 
CRC Incremental Term Loan— 1,004 
CRC Term Loan— 3,415 
Special Improvement District Bonds— 
Total$5,460 $6,106 
____________________
(a)Includes contractually scheduled repayments as well as voluntary accelerated repayments.
Debt Covenant Compliance
The Senior Credit Facilities, the CEI Term Loan B and the indentures governing the CRC Senior Secured Notes, the CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2025, the CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2030, the CEI Senior Notes due 2027, and the CEI Senior Notes due 2029 contain covenants which are standard and customary for these types of agreements. These include negative covenants, which, subject to certain exceptions and baskets, limit the Company’s and its subsidiaries’ ability to (among other items) incur additional indebtedness, make investments, make restricted payments, including dividends, grant liens, sell assets and make acquisitions.
Following the Third Amendment, the Amended CEI Revolving Credit Facility and the CEI Term Loan A include a maximum net total leverage ratio financial covenant of 7.25:1 until December 31, 2024 and 6.50:1 from and after December 31, 2024. In addition, the Amended CEI Revolving Credit Facility and the CEI Term Loan A include a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio financial covenant of 1.75:1 until December 31, 2024 and 2.0:1 from and after December 31, 2024. From and after the repayment of the CEI Term Loan A, the financial covenants applicable to the Amended CEI Revolving Credit Facility will be tested solely to the extent that certain testing conditions are satisfied. Failure to comply with such covenants could result in an acceleration of the maturity of indebtedness outstanding under the relevant debt document. As of December 31, 2023, we were not subject to any debt covenants with respect to the new CEI Term Loan B-1 or the CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2032.
As of December 31, 2023, the Company was in compliance with all of the applicable financial covenants described above.
Table of Contents
93

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Guarantees
The Senior Credit Facilities, the CEI Term Loan B, the CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2025 and the CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2030 are guaranteed on a senior secured basis by each existing and future material wholly-owned domestic subsidiary of the Company (subject to certain exceptions including CRC and its subsidiaries) and are secured by substantially all of the existing and future property and assets of the Company and its subsidiary guarantors (subject to certain exceptions). The CEI Senior Notes due 2027 and the CEI Senior Notes due 2029 are guaranteed on a senior unsecured basis by such subsidiaries.
Prior to the repayments on February 6, 2024, the CRC Senior Secured Notes were guaranteed on a senior secured basis by each existing and future material wholly-owned domestic subsidiary of CRC (subject to certain exceptions) and were secured by substantially all of the existing and future property and assets of CRC and its subsidiary guarantors (subject to certain exceptions). The CRC Senior Secured Notes were also guaranteed on a senior unsecured basis by the Company. As of December 31, 2023, there were no guarantees with respect to the CEI Term Loan B-1 or the CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2032.
Note 13. Revenue Recognition
Accounting Policies
Casino Revenues
Our casino revenues consist of gaming wagers, pari-mutuel commissions, sports betting and iGaming wagers. The Company recognizes as casino revenue the net win from these gaming activities, which is the difference between gaming wins and losses, not the total amount wagered. Progressive jackpots are accrued and charged to revenue at the time the obligation to pay the jackpot is established. Gaming revenues are recognized net of free bets, free play, matched deposits, and other similar incentives to its customers. During significant promotional periods, such as entering new jurisdictions with our Proxy Statement,Caesars Sportsbook or Caesars Racebook apps, such activity could result in negative net gaming revenue. Such periods are not expected to be filedlong in duration as our level of investment during these promotional periods is within our discretion. Pari-mutuel commissions consist of commissions earned from thoroughbred and harness racing and importing of simulcast signals from other racetracks and are recognized at the time wagers are made. Such commissions are a designated portion of the wagering handle as determined by state racing commissions and are shown net of the taxes assessed by state and local agencies, as well as purses and other contractual amounts paid to horsemen associations. The Company recognizes revenues from fees earned through the exporting of simulcast signals to other racetracks at the time wagers are made, which are recorded on a gross basis. Such fees are based upon a predetermined percentage of handle as contracted with the Securitiesother racetracks.
Non-gaming Revenues
Hotel, food and Exchange Commissionbeverage, and other operating revenues are recognized as services are performed and is the net amount collected from the customer for such goods and services. Hotel, food and beverage services have been determined to be separate, stand-alone performance obligations and are recorded as revenue as the good or service is transferred to the customer over the customer’s stay at the hotel or when the delivery is made for the food and beverage. Advance deposits for future hotel occupancy, convention space or food and beverage services contracts are recorded as deferred income until revenue recognition criteria has been met. The Company also provides goods and services that may include multiple performance obligations, such as for packages, for which revenues are allocated on a pro rata basis based on each service’s standalone selling price (“SSP”).
Sales and other taxes collected from customers on behalf of governmental authorities are accounted for on a net basis and are not included in net revenues or operating expenses.
The Company’s Statement of Operations presents net revenue disaggregated by type or nature of the good or service. A summary of net revenues disaggregated by type of revenue and reportable segment is presented below. Refer to Note 19 for additional information on the Company’s reportable segments.
Year Ended December 31, 2023
(In millions)Las VegasRegionalCaesars DigitalManaged and BrandedCorporate and OtherTotal
Casino$1,212 $4,272 $886 $— $(3)$6,367 
Food and beverage1,152 576 — — — 1,728 
Hotel1,447 643 — — — 2,090 
Other659 287 87 307 1,343 
Net revenues$4,470 $5,778 $973 $307 $— $11,528 
Table of Contents
94

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Year Ended December 31, 2022
(In millions)Las VegasRegionalCaesars DigitalManaged and BrandedCorporate and OtherTotal
Casino$1,247 $4,291 $462 $— $(3)$5,997 
Food and beverage1,063 533 — — — 1,596 
Hotel1,341 616 — — — 1,957 
Other636 264 86 282 1,271 
Net revenues$4,287 $5,704 $548 $282 $— $10,821 
Year Ended December 31, 2021
(In millions)Las VegasRegionalCaesars DigitalManaged and BrandedCorporate and OtherTotal
Casino$1,226 $4,305 $296 $— $— $5,827 
Food and beverage702 438 — — — 1,140 
Hotel968 583 — — — 1,551 
Other513 211 41 278 1,052 
Net revenues$3,409 $5,537 $337 $278 $$9,570 
Accounts Receivable and Credit Risk
We issue credit to approved casino customers following investigations of creditworthiness. Business or economic conditions or other significant events could affect the collectability of these receivables. Accounts receivable are non-interest bearing and are initially recorded at cost.
Marker play represents a meaningful portion of our overall table games volume. We maintain strict controls over the issuance of markers and aggressively pursue collection from those customers who fail to pay their marker balances timely. These collection efforts include the mailing of statements and delinquency notices and the use of personal contacts, outside collection agencies and civil litigation. Markers are generally legally enforceable instruments in the United States. Markers are not legally enforceable instruments in some foreign countries, but the United States assets of foreign customers may be reached to satisfy judgments entered in the United States. We consider the likelihood and difficulty of enforceability, among other factors, when we issue credit to customers who are not residents of the United States.
Trade receivables, including casino and hotel receivables, are typically non-interest bearing. Accounts are written off when management deems the account to be uncollectible. Recoveries of accounts previously written off are recorded when received. Management believes that as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, no later than April 30, 2018, pursuantsignificant concentrations of credit risk related to Regulation 14Areceivables existed.
Reserve for Uncollectible Accounts Receivable
An estimated allowance for doubtful accounts is maintained to reduce the Company’s receivables to their carrying amount, which approximates fair value. The allowance is estimated based on specific review of customer accounts, historical collection experience, customer relationships and reasonable forecasts which consider current economic and business conditions to reflect current expected credit loss. As with many estimates, management must make judgments about potential actions by third parties in establishing and evaluating our reserves for bad debts.
Accounts Receivable, Net
December 31,
(In millions)20232022
Casino$274 $259 
Food and beverage and hotel118 144 
Other216 208 
Accounts receivable, net$608 $611 
Table of Contents
95

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
(In millions)Contracts
Other (a)
Total
Balance as of January 1, 2021$120 $18 $138 
Provision for doubtful accounts16 10 26 
Write-offs less recoveries(26)(8)(34)
Balance as of December 31, 2021110 20 130 
Provision for doubtful accounts13 12 25 
Write-offs less recoveries(22)(15)(37)
Balance as of December 31, 2022101 17 118 
Provision for doubtful accounts29 12 41 
Write-offs less recoveries(49)(17)(66)
Balance as of December 31, 2023$81 $12 $93 
____________________
(a)“Other” includes allowance associated with lease receivables under ASC 842. See Note 10 for further details.
Contract and Contract Related Liabilities
The Company records contract or contract-related liabilities related to differences between the timing of cash receipts from the customer and the recognition of revenue. The Company generally has three types of liabilities related to contracts with customers: (1) outstanding chip liability, which represents the amounts owed in exchange for gaming chips held by customers,(2) Caesars Rewards player loyalty program obligations, which represent the deferred allocation of revenue relating to reward credits granted to Caesars Rewards members based on certain types of customer spend, including online and retail gaming, hotel, dining, retail shopping, and player loyalty program incentives earned, and (3) customer deposits and other deferred revenue, which primarily represents funds deposited by customers related to gaming play and advance payments received for goods and services yet to be provided (such as advance ticket sales, deposits on rooms and convention space, unpaid wagers, iGaming deposits, or future sports bets). These liabilities are generally expected to be recognized as revenue within one year of being purchased, earned, or deposited and are recorded within accrued other liabilities on the Company’s Balance Sheets. Liabilities expected to be recognized as revenue beyond one year of being purchased, earned, or deposited are recorded within other long-term liabilities on the Company’s Balance Sheets.
Outstanding Chip Liability
The Company recognizes the impact on gaming revenues on an annual basis to reflect an estimate of the change in the value of outstanding chips that are not expected to be redeemed. This estimate is determined by measuring the difference between the total value of chips placed in service less the value of chips under our control. This measurement is performed on an annual basis utilizing a methodology in which a consistent formula is applied to estimate the percentage of chips not in our custody that are not expected to be redeemed. In addition to the formula, certain judgments are made with regard to various denominations and souvenir chips. The outstanding chip liability is included in accrued other liabilities on the Balance Sheets.
Caesars Rewards Loyalty Program
Caesars Rewards grants Reward Credits to Caesars Rewards Members based on various types of customer spend, including online and retail gaming, hotel, dining, and retail shopping at Caesars-affiliated properties. Members may redeem Reward Credits for complimentary or discounted goods and services such as rooms, food and beverages, merchandise, free play, entertainment, and travel accommodations. Members are able to accumulate Reward Credits over time that they may redeem at their discretion under the Securities Act.

terms of the program. A member’s Reward Credit balance is forfeited if the member does not earn at least one Reward Credit during a continuous six-month period.
Because of the significance of the Caesars Rewards program and the ability for customers to accumulate Reward Credits based on their past play, we have determined that Reward Credits granted in conjunction with other earning activity represent a performance obligation. As a result, for transactions in which Reward Credits are earned, we allocate a portion of the transaction price to the Reward Credits that are earned based upon the relative SSP of the goods and services involved. When the activity underlying the “earning” of the Reward Credits has a wide range of selling prices and is highly variable, such as in the case of gaming activities, we use the residual approach in this allocation by computing the value of the Reward Credits as described below and allocating the residual amount to the gaming activity. This allocation results in a significant portion of the transaction price being deferred and is recognized as revenue when the Reward Credits are redeemed in accordance with the specific recognition policy of the activity for which the credits are redeemed.
Table of Contents
96

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Our Caesars Rewards loyalty program includes various tiers that offer different benefits, and members are able to earn credits towards tier status, which generally enables them to receive discounts similar to those provided as complimentaries described below. We have determined that any such discounts received as a result of tier status do not represent material rights, and therefore, we do not account for them as distinct performance obligations.
We have determined the SSP of a Reward Credit by computing the redemption value of credits expected to be redeemed. Because Reward Credits are not otherwise independently sold, we analyzed all Reward Credit redemption activity over the preceding calendar year and determined the redemption value based on the fair market value of the goods and services for which the Reward Credits were redeemed. We have applied the practical expedient under the portfolio approach to our Reward Credit transactions because of the similarity of gaming and other transactions and the homogeneity of Reward Credits.
As part of determining the SSP for Reward Credits, we also determined that there is generally an amount of Reward Credits that is not redeemed, which is considered “breakage.” We recognize the expected breakage proportionally with the pattern of revenue recognized related to the redemption of Reward Credits. We periodically reassess our customer behaviors and revise our expectations as deemed necessary on a prospective basis.
The following table summarizes the activity related to contract and contract-related liabilities:
Outstanding Chip LiabilityCaesars RewardsCustomer Deposits and Other Deferred Revenue
(In millions)202320222023202220232022
Balance at January 1$45 $48 $87 $91 $693 $560 
Balance at December 3142 45 86 87 693 693 
Increase (decrease)$(3)$(3)$(1)$(4)$— $133 
Customer deposits and other deferred revenues increased in 2022 primarily due to our expansion in the Caesars Digital segment with the legalization of retail and online sports betting in new states.
Complimentaries
The Company offers discretionary coupons and other discretionary complimentaries to customers outside of the loyalty program such as matching deposits, free bets and free play. Such complimentaries are provided in conjunction with other revenue‑earning activities and are generally provided to encourage additional customer spending on those activities. Accordingly, the Company allocates a portion of the transaction price received from such customers to the complimentary goods and services. The Company performs this allocation based on the SSP of the underlying goods and services, which is determined based upon the weighted-average cash sales prices received for similar services at similar points during the year. The retail value of complimentary food, beverage, hotel rooms and other services provided to customers is recognized as a reduction of revenues for the department which issued the complimentary and revenue for the department redeemed. Complimentaries provided by third parties at the discretion and under the control of the Company are recorded as an expense when incurred.
The Company’s revenues included complimentaries and loyalty point redemptions totaling $1.4 billion, $1.2 billion and $1.0 billion for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Item 13.

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence.

Note 14. Earnings per Share

The information required

Basic earnings per share (“EPS”) is computed by this Item is hereby incorporated by reference to our Proxy Statement, to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission no later than April 30, 2018, pursuant to Regulation 14A under the Securities Act.

Item 14.

Principal Accounting Fees and Services.

The information required by this Item is hereby incorporated by reference to our Proxy Statement, to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission no later than April 30, 2018, pursuant to Regulation 14A under the Securities Act.


PART IV

Item 15.  Financial Statement Schedules.

(a)(i) Financial Statements

Included in Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10‑K:

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2017 and 2016

Consolidated Statements of Income for the Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity for the Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(a)(ii) Financial Statement Schedule

Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015

Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

(a)(iii) Exhibits


EXHIBIT

NO.

ITEM TITLE

    2.1

Agreement and Plan of Merger by and among Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc., Eldorado Resorts, Inc., Eagle I Acquisition Corp. and Eagle II Acquisition Company LLC, dated as of September 19, 2016 (incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 22, 2016).

    3.1

Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation (incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 19, 2014).

    3.2

Amended and Restated Bylaws (incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8‑K filed on September 19, 2014).

    4.1

Specimen Stock Certificate of the Company (incorporated by reference to our Form S‑4/A filed on April 21, 2014).

    4.2

Indenture dated as of June 23, 2015, by and among Eldorado Resorts, Inc., the guarantors party thereto, U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, and Capital One, N.A., as Collateral Trustee, and Form of Note (incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 23, 2015).

    4.3

First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of December 15, 2015, by and among Eldorado Resorts, Inc., the guarantors party thereto and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, under the 2023 Notes Indenture (incorporated by reference to our Registration Statement on Form S-4 filed on January 14, 2016).

    4.4

Second Supplemental Indenture, dated as of May 26, 2016, by and among Eldorado Resorts, Inc., the guarantors party thereto, and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, under the 2023 Notes Indenture (incorporated by reference to our Registration Statement on Form S-4 filed on June 16, 2017).

    4.5

Third Supplemental Indenture, dated as of March 16, 2017, by and among Eldorado Resorts, Inc., the guarantors party thereto and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, under the 2023 Notes Indenture (incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 22, 2017).

    4.6

Fourth Supplemental Indenture, dated as of May 1, 2017, by and among Eldorado Resorts, Inc., the guarantors party thereto and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, under the 2023 Notes Indenture (incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 1, 2017).

    4.7

Indenture, dated as of March 29, 2017, by and between Isle of Capri Casinos LLC formerly known as Eagle II Acquisition Company LLC and U.S. Bank National Association (incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 29, 2017).

    4.8

Supplemental Indenture, dated as of May 1, 2017, by and among Eldorado Resorts, Inc., the guarantors party thereto and U.S. Bank National Association (incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 1, 2017).

  10.1

Agreement dated November 1, 2008 between Mountaineer Park, Inc. and Racetrack Employees Union Local No. 101 (incorporated by reference to the Annual Report of MTR Gaming Group, Inc. on Form 10‑K filed on March 16, 2009).

  10.2

Agreement dated December 29, 2009 by and between Mountaineer Park, Inc. and Mountaineer Park Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association, Inc. (incorporated by reference to the Annual Report of MTR Gaming Group, Inc. on Form 10‑K filed on March 16, 2010).

  10.3

Agreement dated February 22, 2007 by and between Presque Isle Downs, Inc. and the Pennsylvania Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association Inc. (incorporated by reference to the Annual Report of MTR Gaming Group, Inc. on Form 10‑K filed on April 2, 2007).

  10.4*

Executive Employment Agreement, dated as of January 17, 2018, by and between Eldorado Resorts, Inc. and Gary Carano (incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 22, 2018).

  10.5*

Executive Employment Agreement, dated as of January 17, 2018, by and between Eldorado Resorts, Inc. and Thomas Reeg (incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 22, 2018).

  10.6*

Executive Employment Agreement, dated as of January 17, 2018, by and between Eldorado Resorts, Inc. and Anthony Carano (incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 22, 2018).


EXHIBIT

NO.

ITEM TITLE

  10.7*

Executive Employment Agreement, dated as of January 17, 2018, by and between Eldorado Resorts, Inc. and Edmund L. Quatmann, Jr. (filed herewith).

  10.8*

2010 Long‑Term Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to the Quarterly Report of MTR Gaming Group, Inc. on Form 10‑Q filed on August 9, 2010).

  10.9*

Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Non‑Employee Directors (2010 Long‑Term Incentive Plan) (incorporated by reference to the Quarterly Report of MTR Gaming Group, Inc. on Form 10‑Q filed on August 9, 2010).

  10.10*

Form of Nonqualified Stock Option Award Agreement (2010 Long‑Term Incentive Plan) (incorporated by reference to the Current Report of MTR Gaming Group, Inc. on Form 8‑K filed on February 3, 2011).

  10.11*

Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement (2010 Long‑Term Incentive Plan) (incorporated by reference to the Current Report of MTR Gaming Group, Inc. on Form 8‑K filed on February 3, 2011).

  10.12*

Form of Cash‑Based Performance Award Agreement (2010 Long‑Term Incentive Plan) (incorporated by reference to the Current Report of MTR Gaming Group, Inc. on Form 8‑K filed on February 3, 2011).

  10.13*

Eldorado Resorts, Inc. 2015 Equity Incentive Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to the Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed by Eldorado Resorts, Inc. on April 3, 2015 (File No. 333-203227)).

  10.14*

Form of Director Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement pursuant to the Eldorado Resorts, Inc. 2015 Equity Incentive Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.28 to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed by Eldorado Resorts, Inc. on July 14, 2015 (File No. 333-205654)).

  10.15*

Form of Director Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement pursuant to the Eldorado Resorts, Inc. 2015 Equity Incentive Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.29 to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed by Eldorado Resorts, Inc. on July 14, 2015 (File No. 333-205654)).

  10.16*

Form of Performance Stock Unit Award Agreement pursuant to the Eldorado Resorts, Inc. 2015 Equity Incentive Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.30 to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed by Eldorado Resorts, Inc. on July 14, 2015 (File No. 333-205654)).

  10.17

Ground Lease dated as of May 19, 1999 between City of Shreveport, as landlord, and Eldorado Casino Shreveport Joint Venture (formerly known as QNOV) as tenant (incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form 10‑K filed on March 16, 2015).

  10.18

First Amendment to Lease Agreement made and entered into as of August 13, 2012, by and between City of Shreveport, as landlord, and Eldorado Casino Shreveport Joint Venture (formerly known as QNOV) as tenant (incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form 10‑K filed on March 16, 2015).

  10.19

Lease between C, S & Y Associates, as lessor, and Eldorado Hotel Associates, as lessee, dated as of July 21, 1972 (incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form 10‑K filed on March 16, 2015).

  10.20

Addendum, dated as of March 20, 1973, to lease between C. S & Y Associates, as lessor, and Eldorado Hotel Associates, as lessee, dated as of July 21, 1972 (incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form 10‑K filed on March 16, 2015).

  10.21

Amendment, dated as of January 1, 1978, to lease between C. S. & Y. Associates, as lessor, and Eldorado Hotel Associates, as lessee, dated as of July 21, 1972 (incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form 10‑K filed on March 16, 2015).

  10.22

Amendment, dated as of January 31, 1985, to lease between C. S. & Y. Associates, as lessor, and Eldorado Hotel Associates, as lessee, dated as of July 21, 1972 (incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form 10‑K filed on March 16, 2015).

  10.23

Amendment, dated as of December 24, 1987, to lease between C. S. & Y. Associates, as lessor, and Eldorado Hotel Associates, as lessee, dated as of July 21, 1972 (incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form 10‑K filed on March 16, 2015).


EXHIBIT

NO.

ITEM TITLE

  10.24

Reimbursement and Indemnification Agreement and Lease Amendment, entered into as of March 24, 1994, by and between Eldorado Hotel Associates Limited Partnership, and CS&Y Associates (incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form 10‑K filed on March 16, 2015).

  10.25

Fourth Amendment, dated as of June 1, 2011, by and between Eldorado Resorts LLC and CS&Y Associates, to Reimbursement and Indemnification Agreement and Lease Amendment, entered into as of March 24, 1994, by and between Eldorado Hotel Associates Limited Partnership, and CS&Y Associates (incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form 10‑K filed on March 16, 2015).

  10.26

Credit Agreement, dated as of April 17, 2017, by and among Isle of Capri Casinos LLC (f/k/a Eagle II Acquisition Company LLC), the Lenders party thereto, and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent (incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 17, 2017).

  10.27

Borrower Joinder and Assumption Agreement, dated as of May 1, 2017, by and among Eldorado Resorts, Inc., Isle of Capri Casinos LLC and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. (incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 1, 2017).

  10.28

Guaranty Agreement, dated as of May 1, 2017, by and among the guarantors party thereto and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. (incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 1, 2017).

  10.29

Amendment Agreement, dated as of August 15, 2017, by and between the Eldorado Resorts, Inc. and JPMorgan Chase, N.A. as Administrative Agent in connection with the Credit Agreement, dated as of April 17, 2017 (incorporated by reference to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on November 7, 2017).

  10.30

Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of May 1, 2017, by and among Eldorado Resorts, Inc., Recreational Enterprises, Inc., GFIL Holdings, LLC and certain of its affiliates (incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 1, 2017).

  10.31*

Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. Second Amended and Restated 2009 Long-Term Stock Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 9, 2015).

  10.32*

Isle of Capri Casino, Inc. Form Stock Option Award Agreement (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on July 11, 2008).

  10.33*

Isle of Capri Casino, Inc. Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on June 25, 2009).

  10.34*

Isle of Capri Casino, Inc. Form of Performance Based Restricted Stock Unit Agreement (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on June 14, 2012).

  10.35*

Isle of Capri Casino, Inc. Form of Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on June 17, 2015).

  10.36*

Isle of Capri Casino, Inc. Form of Performance Stock Unit Agreement (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on June 17, 2015).

  10.37*

Isle of Capri Casino, Inc. Form of Restricted Stock Unit Agreement (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on June 17, 2015).

  10.38

Amended and Restated Lease, dated as of April 19, 1999, among Port Resources, Inc. and CRU, Inc., as landlords and St. Charles Gaming Company, Inc., as tenant (St. Charles) (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on July 2, 1999).

  10.39

Lease of property in Coahoma, Mississippi, dated as of November 16, 1993, by and among Roger Allen Johnson, Jr., Charles Bryant Johnson and Magnolia Lady, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Form S-4/A filed on June 19, 2002).

  10.40

Addendum to Lease, dated as of June 22, 1994, by and among Roger Allen Johnson, Jr., Charles Bryant Johnson and Magnolia Lady, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on July 28, 2000).


EXHIBIT

NO.

ITEM TITLE

  10.41

Second addendum to Lease, dated as of October 17, 1995, by and among Roger Allen Johnson, Jr., Charles Bryant Johnson and Magnolia Lady, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on July 28, 2000).

  10.42

Master Lease, dated as of July 18, 1997, by and between The City of Boonville, Missouri and IOC-Boonville, Inc. formerly known as Davis Gaming Boonville, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on July 11, 2008).

  10.43

Amendment to Master Lease, dated as of April 19, 1999, by and between The City of Boonville, Missouri and IOC-Boonville, Inc. formerly known as Davis Gaming Boonville, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on July 11, 2008).

  10.44

Second Amendment to Master Lease, dated as of September 17, 2001, by and between The City of Boonville, Missouri and IOC-Boonville, Inc. formerly known as Davis Gaming Boonville, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on July 11, 2008).

  10.45

Third Amendment to Master Lease, dated as of November 19, 2001, by and between The City of Boonville, Missouri and IOC-Boonville, Inc. formerly known as Gold River's Boonville Resort, Inc. and Davis Gaming Boonville, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on July 11, 2008).

  10.46

Amended and Restated Lease Agreement, dated as of August 21, 1995, by and between the Port Authority of Kansas City, Missouri and Tenant (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on June 25, 2009).

  10.47

First Amendment to Amended and Restated Lease Agreement, dated as of October 31, 1995, by and between the Port Authority of Kansas City, Missouri and Tenant (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on June 25, 2009).

  10.48

Second Amendment to Amended and Restated Lease Agreement, dated as of June 10, 1996, by and between the Port Authority of Kansas City, Missouri and Tenant (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on June 25, 2009).

  10.49

Assignment and Assumption Agreement (Lease Agreement), dated as of June 6, 2000, by and among Flamingo Hilton Riverboat Casino, LP, Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. and IOC-Kansas City, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on July 11, 2008).

  10.50

Lease and Agreement-Spring 1995, dated as of August 15, 1995, by and between Andrianakos Limited Liability Company and Isle of Capri Black Hawk, L.L.C. (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on July 11, 2008).

  10.51

Addendum to the Lease and Agreement-Spring 1995, dated as of April 4, 1996, by and between Andrianakos Limited Liability Company and Isle of Capri Black Hawk, L.L.C. (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on July 11, 2008).

  10.52

Second Addendum to the Lease and Agreement-Spring 1995, dated as of March 21, 2003, by and between Andrianakos Limited Liability Company and Isle of Capri Black Hawk, L.L.C. (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on July 11, 2008).

  10.53

Third Addendum to the Lease and Agreement-Spring 1995, dated as of April 22, 2003, by and between Andrianakos Limited Liability Company and Isle of Capri Black Hawk, L.L.C. (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on July 11, 2008).

  10.54

Fourth Addendum to the Lease and Agreement-Spring 1995, dated as of December 11, 2013, by and between Andrianakos Limited Liability Company and Isle of Capri Black Hawk, L.L.C. (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on June 23, 2014).

  10.55

Development Agreement, dated as of October 4, 2010, by and between IOC-Cape Girardeau, LLC and the City of Cape Girardeau, Missouri (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on December 3, 2010).


EXHIBIT

NO.

ITEM TITLE

  10.56

Amended and Restated Operator’s Contract, dated as of November 9, 2004, by and between Black Hawk County Gaming Association and IOC Black Hawk County, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on June 23, 2014).

  10.57

Operator's Contract, dated as of August 11, 1994, by and between the Riverbend Regional Authority, Green Bridge Company, Bettendorf Riverfront Development Company, L.C., Lady Luck Gaming Corporation and Lady Luck Bettendorf, L.C. (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on June 23, 2014).

  10.58

Amendment to Operator's Contract, dated as of August 27, 1998, by and among Green Bridge Company, Bettendorf Riverfront Development Company, L.C., Lady Luck Gaming Corporation, Lady Luck Bettendorf, L.C. and Riverbend Regional Authority (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on June 23, 2014).

  10.59

Second Amendment to Operator's Contract, dated as of June 30, 2004, by and between Isle of Capri Bettendorf, L.C. and Scott County Regional Authority (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on June 23, 2014).

  10.60

Third Amendment to Operator's Contract, dated as of October 30, 2007, by and between Isle of Capri Bettendorf, L.C. and Scott County Regional Authority (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on June 23, 2014).

  10.61

Fourth Amendment to Operator's Contract, dated as of March 11, 2015, by and between Isle of Capri Bettendorf, L.C. and Scott County Regional Authority (incorporated by reference to Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on June 17, 2015).

  12.1

Statement of ratio of earnings to fixed charges (filed herewith).

  21.1

Subsidiaries of the Registrant (filed herewith).

  23.1

Consent of Ernst & Young LLP (filed herewith).

  31.1

Certification of Gary L. Carano pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes‑Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith).

  31.2

Certification of Thomas R. Reeg pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes‑Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith).

  32.1

Certification of Gary L. Carano in accordance with 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 (filed herewith).

  32.2

Certification of Thomas R. Reeg in accordance with 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 (filed herewith).

  99.1

Description of Governmental Regulations and Licensing (filed herewith).

  99.2

Audited consolidated financial statements of Circus and Eldorado Joint Venture, LLC, as of and for the years ended December��31, 2014 and 2013 (incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form 10‑K filed on March 15, 2016).

  99.3

Unaudited consolidated financial statements of Circus and Eldorado Joint Venture, LLC, as of November 23, 2015 and for the period January 1, 2015 through November 23, 2015 (incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form 10‑K filed on March 15, 2016).

101.1

XBRL Instance Document

101.2

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document

101.3

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document

101.4

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document

101.5

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document

101.6

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

*

Management contracts or compensatory plans or arrangements.


SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Sections 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalfdividing net income (loss) by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

ELDORADO RESORTS, INC.

By:

/s/ Gary L. Carano

Gary L. Carano

Chief Executive Officer

Dated: February 27, 2018

Pursuantweighted average shares outstanding during the reporting period. Diluted EPS is computed similarly to basic EPS except that the requirementsweighted average shares outstanding are increased to include additional shares from the assumed exercise of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature

Title

Date

/s/ Gary L. Carano

Gary L. Carano

Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer)

February 27, 2018

/s/ Thomas R. Reeg

Thomas R. Reeg

President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer) and Director

February 27, 2018

/s/ Stephanie D. Lepori

Stephanie D. Lepori

Chief Accounting Officer (Principal Accounting Officer)

February 27, 2018

/s/ Bonnie Biumi

Bonnie Biumi

Director

February 27, 2018

/s/ Frank J. Fahrenkopf Jr.

Frank J. Fahrenkopf Jr.

Director

February 27, 2018

/s/ James B. Hawkins

James B. Hawkins

Director

February 27, 2018

/s/ Gregory J. Kozicz

Gregory J. Kozicz

Director

February 27, 2018

/s/ Michael E. Pegram

Michael E. Pegram

Director

February 27, 2018

/s/ David P. Tomick

David P. Tomick

Director

February 27, 2018

/s/ Roger P. Wagner

Roger P. Wagner

Director

February 27, 2018


INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF

ELDORADO RESORTS, INC.

Page

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

65

Consolidated Balance Sheets

66

Consolidated Statements of Income

67

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

68

Consolidated Statement of Stockholders’ Equity

69

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

70

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

71


Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The Board of Directors and Stockholders

Eldorado Resorts, Inc.

Opinion on the Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Eldorado Resorts, Inc. as of December 31, 2017 and 2016,stock options and the related consolidated statementsassumed vesting of income, comprehensive income, stockholders' equityrestricted share units, if dilutive. The number of additional shares is calculated by assuming that outstanding stock options were exercised, that outstanding restricted share units were released and cash flows for eachthat the proceeds from such activities were used to acquire shares of common stock at the three yearsaverage market price during the reporting period.

For a period in the period ended December 31, 2017, and the related notes and the financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 15 (a)(ii) (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position ofwhich the Company at December 31, 2017 and 2016, andgenerated a net loss from continuing operations, the consolidated results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three yearsweighted average shares outstanding - basic was used in the period ended December 31, 2017, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework), and our report dated February 27, 2018 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

Basis for Opinion

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.  

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP


We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2011.

Roseville, California

February 27, 2018


ELDORADO RESORTS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(dollars in thousands)

 

 

December 31,

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CURRENT ASSETS:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

 

134,596

 

 

$

 

61,029

 

Restricted cash

 

 

 

3,267

 

 

 

 

2,414

 

Marketable securities

 

 

 

17,631

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts receivable, net

 

 

 

45,797

 

 

 

 

14,694

 

Due from affiliates

 

 

 

243

 

 

 

 

 

Inventories

 

 

 

16,870

 

 

 

 

11,055

 

Prepaid income taxes

 

 

 

4,805

 

 

 

 

69

 

Prepaid expenses and other

 

 

 

27,823

 

 

 

 

12,492

 

Total current assets

 

 

 

251,032

 

 

 

 

101,753

 

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET

 

 

 

1,502,817

 

 

 

 

612,342

 

GAMING LICENSES AND OTHER INTANGIBLES, NET

 

 

 

996,816

 

 

 

 

487,498

 

GOODWILL

 

 

 

747,106

 

 

 

 

66,826

 

NON-OPERATING REAL PROPERTY

 

 

 

18,069

 

 

 

 

14,219

 

OTHER ASSETS, NET

 

 

 

30,632

 

 

 

 

11,406

 

Total assets

 

$

 

3,546,472

 

 

$

 

1,294,044

 

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CURRENT LIABILITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current portion of long-term debt

 

$

 

615

 

 

$

 

4,545

 

Accounts payable

 

 

 

34,778

 

 

 

 

21,576

 

Due to affiliates

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

259

 

Accrued property, gaming and other taxes

 

 

 

43,212

 

 

 

 

18,790

 

Accrued payroll and related

 

 

 

53,330

 

 

 

 

14,588

 

Accrued interest

 

 

 

25,607

 

 

 

 

14,634

 

Income taxes payable

 

 

 

171

 

 

 

 

 

Accrued other liabilities

 

 

 

61,346

 

 

 

 

27,648

 

Total current liabilities

 

 

 

219,059

 

 

 

 

102,040

 

LONG-TERM DEBT, LESS CURRENT PORTION

 

 

 

2,189,578

 

 

 

 

795,881

 

DEFERRED INCOME TAXES

 

 

 

164,130

 

 

 

 

90,385

 

OTHER LONG-TERM LIABILITIES

 

 

 

28,579

 

 

 

 

7,287

 

Total liabilities

 

 

 

2,601,346

 

 

 

 

995,593

 

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note 16)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock, 100,000,000 shares authorized, 76,825,966 and 47,105,744

   issued and outstanding, par value $0.00001 as of December 31, 2017 and

   2016, respectively

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Paid-in capital

 

 

 

746,547

 

 

 

 

173,879

 

Retained earnings

 

 

 

198,500

 

 

 

 

124,560

 

Accumulated other comprehensive income

 

 

 

79

 

 

 

 

12

 

Total stockholders’ equity

 

 

 

945,126

 

 

 

 

298,451

 

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

 

$

 

3,546,472

 

 

$

 

1,294,044

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.


ELDORADO RESORTS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(dollars in thousands, exceptcalculating diluted loss per share data)

because using diluted shares would have been anti-dilutive to loss per share.

 

 

For the Year Ended

 

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

REVENUES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Casino

 

$

 

1,228,540

 

 

$

 

693,013

 

 

$

 

614,227

 

Pari-mutuel commissions

 

 

 

14,134

 

 

 

 

8,600

 

 

 

 

9,031

 

Food and beverage

 

 

 

193,260

 

 

 

 

142,032

 

 

 

 

97,740

 

Hotel

 

 

 

119,095

 

 

 

 

94,312

 

 

 

 

37,466

 

Other

 

 

 

51,560

 

 

 

 

45,239

 

 

 

 

26,077

 

 

 

 

 

1,606,589

 

 

 

 

983,196

 

 

 

 

784,541

 

Less-promotional allowances

 

 

 

(133,085

)

 

 

 

(90,300

)

 

 

 

(64,757

)

Net operating revenues

 

 

 

1,473,504

 

 

 

 

892,896

 

 

 

 

719,784

 

EXPENSES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Casino

 

 

 

638,362

 

 

 

 

390,325

 

 

 

 

357,572

 

Pari-mutuel commissions

 

 

 

13,509

 

 

 

 

9,787

 

 

 

 

9,973

 

Food and beverage

 

 

 

94,723

 

 

 

 

81,878

 

 

 

 

52,606

 

Hotel

 

 

 

34,282

 

 

 

 

30,746

 

 

 

 

11,307

 

Other

 

 

 

26,030

 

 

 

 

26,921

 

 

 

 

15,325

 

Marketing and promotions

 

 

 

82,525

 

 

 

 

40,600

 

 

 

 

31,227

 

General and administrative

 

 

 

241,095

 

 

 

 

130,172

 

 

 

 

96,870

 

Corporate

 

 

 

30,739

 

 

 

 

19,880

 

 

 

 

16,469

 

Impairment charges

 

 

 

38,016

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

 

 

105,891

 

 

 

 

63,449

 

 

 

 

56,921

 

Total operating expenses

 

 

 

1,305,172

 

 

 

 

793,758

 

 

 

 

648,270

 

LOSS ON SALE OR DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY AND

   EQUIPMENT

 

 

 

(319

)

 

 

 

(836

)

 

 

 

(6

)

PROCEEDS FROM TERMINATED SALE

 

 

 

20,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TRANSACTION EXPENSES

 

 

 

(92,777

)

 

 

 

(9,184

)

 

 

 

(2,452

)

EQUITY IN (LOSS) INCOME OF UNCONSOLIDATED

  AFFILIATES

 

 

 

(367

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3,460

 

OPERATING INCOME

 

 

 

94,869

 

 

 

 

89,118

 

 

 

 

72,516

 

OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest expense, net

 

 

 

(99,769

)

 

 

 

(50,917

)

 

 

 

(61,558

)

Gain on valuation of unconsolidated affiliate

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

35,582

 

Loss on early retirement of debt, net

 

 

 

(38,430

)

 

 

 

(155

)

 

 

 

(1,937

)

Total other expense

 

 

 

(138,199

)

 

 

 

(51,072

)

 

 

 

(27,913

)

NET (LOSS) INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES

 

 

 

(43,330

)

 

 

 

38,046

 

 

 

 

44,603

 

BENEFIT (PROVISION) FOR INCOME TAXES

 

 

 

117,270

 

 

 

 

(13,244

)

 

 

 

69,580

 

NET INCOME

 

$

 

73,940

 

 

$

 

24,802

 

 

$

 

114,183

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net Income per share of Common Stock:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic

 

$

 

1.10

 

 

$

 

0.53

 

 

$

 

2.45

 

Diluted

 

$

 

1.09

 

 

$

 

0.52

 

 

$

 

2.43

 

Weighted Average Basic Shares Outstanding

 

 

 

67,133,531

 

 

 

 

47,033,311

 

 

 

 

46,550,042

 

Weighted Average Diluted Shares Outstanding

 

 

 

68,102,814

 

 

 

 

47,701,562

 

 

 

 

47,008,980

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part

Table of these consolidated financial statements.

Contents

97

ELDORADO RESORTS,


CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(dollars in thousands)

 

 

For the Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

NET INCOME

 

$

 

73,940

 

 

$

 

24,802

 

 

$

 

114,183

 

Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), net of tax:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Defined benefit pension plan—amortization of net income (loss),

   net of tax of $36 and $2 for 2017 and 2015, respectively

 

 

 

67

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(75

)

Comprehensive Income, net of tax

 

$

 

74,007

 

 

$

 

24,802

 

 

$

 

114,108

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.


ELDORADO RESORTS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(dollars in thousands)

 

 

Common Stock

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shares

 

 

Amount

 

 

Paid-in

Capital

 

 

Retained

Earnings

 

 

Non-

controlling

Interest

 

 

Accumulated

Other

Comprehensive

Income

 

 

Total

 

Balance, December 31, 2014

 

 

46,426,714

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

165,857

 

 

$

 

(14,425

)

 

$

 

103

 

 

$

 

87

 

 

$

 

151,622

 

Issuance of restricted stock units

 

 

17,980

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,488

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,488

 

Acquisition of non-controlling interest

 

 

373,135

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3,552

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(103

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3,449

 

Net income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

114,183

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

114,183

 

Other comprehensive income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(75

)

 

 

 

(75

)

Balance, December 31, 2015

 

 

46,817,829

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

170,897

 

 

 

 

99,758

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12

 

 

 

 

270,667

 

Issuance of restricted stock units

 

 

217,997

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3,341

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3,341

 

Net income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

24,802

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

24,802

 

Other comprehensive income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exercise of stock options

 

 

132,900

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

385

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

385

 

Shares withheld related to net share settlement of stock awards

 

 

(62,982

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(744

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(744

)

Balance, December 31, 2016

 

 

47,105,744

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

173,879

 

 

 

 

124,560

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12

 

 

 

 

298,451

 

Isle common stock exchanged at merger

 

 

28,468,182

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

574,811

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

574,811

 

Issuance of restricted stock units

 

 

1,070,552

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6,322

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6,322

 

Net income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

73,940

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

73,940

 

Other comprehensive income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

67

 

 

 

 

67

 

Exercise of stock options

 

 

1,185,745

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2,900

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2,900

 

Shares withheld related to net share settlement of stock awards

 

 

(1,004,257

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(11,365

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(11,365

)

Balance, December 31, 2017

 

 

76,825,966

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

746,547

 

 

$

 

198,500

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

79

 

 

$

 

945,126

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.


ELDORADO RESORTS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(dollars in thousands)

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

 

73,940

 

 

$

 

24,802

 

 

$

 

114,183

 

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating

   activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

 

 

105,891

 

 

 

 

63,449

 

 

 

 

56,921

 

Amortization of deferred financing costs, discount and debt premium

 

 

 

6,289

 

 

 

 

3,520

 

 

 

 

(4,372

)

Equity in loss (income) of unconsolidated affiliates

 

 

 

367

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(3,460

)

Loss on early retirement of debt

 

 

 

38,430

 

 

 

 

155

 

 

 

 

1,937

 

Gain on valuation of unconsolidated affiliate

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(35,582

)

Change in fair value of acquisition related contingencies

 

 

 

37

 

 

 

 

57

 

 

 

 

90

 

Stock compensation expense

 

 

 

6,322

 

 

 

 

3,341

 

 

 

 

1,488

 

Loss on sale or disposal of property and equipment

 

 

 

319

 

 

 

 

836

 

 

 

 

6

 

Provision (benefit) for bad debt

 

 

 

531

 

 

 

 

161

 

 

 

 

(18

)

Impairment charges

 

 

 

38,016

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Benefit) provision for deferred income taxes

 

 

 

(113,062

)

 

 

 

11,344

 

 

 

 

(70,773

)

Change in operating assets and liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Restricted cash

 

 

 

355

 

 

 

 

2,857

 

 

 

 

711

 

Sale of trading securities

 

 

 

101

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts receivable

 

 

 

(19,110

)

 

 

 

(4,874

)

 

 

 

2,955

 

Inventory

 

 

 

105

 

 

 

 

687

 

 

 

 

(71

)

Prepaid expenses and other assets

 

 

 

(629

)

 

 

 

(1,654

)

 

 

 

2,094

 

Interest payable

 

 

 

10,974

 

 

 

 

(344

)

 

 

 

(14,112

)

Income taxes payable

 

 

 

(470

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(137

)

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

 

 

 

(18,165

)

 

 

 

(6,767

)

 

 

 

4,855

 

Net cash provided by operating activities

 

 

 

130,241

 

 

 

 

97,570

 

 

 

 

56,715

 

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Purchase of property and equipment, net

 

 

 

(83,522

)

 

 

 

(47,380

)

 

 

 

(36,762

)

Reimbursement of capital expenditures from West Virginia regulatory authorities

 

 

 

361

 

 

 

 

4,207

 

 

 

 

1,266

 

Restricted cash

 

 

 

19,514

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from sale of property and equipment

 

 

 

135

 

 

 

 

1,560

 

 

 

 

153

 

Net cash used in business combinations

 

 

 

(1,343,659

)

 

 

 

(194

)

 

 

 

(125,016

)

Investment in and loans to unconsolidated affiliate

 

 

 

(604

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1,010

)

Decrease in restricted cash due to credit support deposit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2,500

 

Decrease in other assets, net

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

659

 

 

 

 

115

 

Net cash used in investing activities

 

 

 

(1,407,775

)

 

 

 

(41,148

)

 

 

 

(158,754

)

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from issuance of New Term Loan

 

 

 

1,450,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from issuance of 6% Senior Notes

 

 

 

875,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from issuance of 7% Senior Notes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

375,000

 

Borrowings under New Revolving Credit Facility

 

 

 

166,953

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Payments under Term Loan

 

 

 

(1,062

)

 

 

 

(4,250

)

 

 

 

425,000

 

Payments under New Term Loan

 

 

 

(493,250

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Payments under New Revolving Credit Facility

 

 

 

(166,953

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Borrowings under Prior Revolving Credit Facility

 

 

 

41,000

 

 

 

 

73,000

 

 

 

 

131,000

 

Payments under Prior Revolving Credit Facility

 

 

 

(29,000

)

 

 

 

(137,500

)

 

 

 

(37,500

)

Retirement of Term Loan

 

 

 

(417,563

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Retirement of Prior Revolving Credit Facility

 

 

 

(41,000

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Debt premium proceeds

 

 

 

27,500

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Payment of other long-term obligation

 

 

 

(43

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Principal payments under 7% Senior Notes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(2,125

)

Retirement of long-term debt

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(728,664

)

Payments on capital leases

 

 

 

(490

)

 

 

 

(274

)

 

 

 

(88

)

Debt issuance costs

 

 

 

(51,526

)

 

 

 

(4,288

)

 

 

 

(25,820

)

Call premium on early retirement of debt

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(44,090

)

Taxes paid related to net share settlement of equity awards

 

 

 

(11,365

)

 

 

 

(744

)

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

 

 

 

2,900

 

 

 

 

385

 

 

 

 

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

 

 

 

1,351,101

 

 

 

 

(73,671

)

 

 

 

92,713

 

INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

 

 

 

73,567

 

 

 

 

(17,249

)

 

 

 

(9,326

)

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF YEAR

 

 

 

61,029

 

 

 

 

78,278

 

 

 

 

87,604

 

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF YEAR

 

$

 

134,596

 

 

$

 

61,029

 

 

$

 

78,278

 

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest paid

 

$

 

84,604

 

 

$

 

47,696

 

 

$

 

78,378

 

Local income taxes paid

 

 

 

246

 

 

 

 

1,662

 

 

 

 

1,198

 

NON-CASH FINANCING ACTIVITIES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net change in payables for capital expenditures

 

 

 

(317

)

 

 

 

4,222

 

 

 

 

500

 

Equipment acquired under capital leases

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

870

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.


ELDORADO RESORTS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(CONTINUED)

The following table illustrates the reconciliation of the numerators and denominators of the basic and diluted net income (loss) per share computations during the years ended December 31, 2017

2023, 2022 and 2021:
Years Ended December 31,
(In millions, except per share amounts)202320222021
Net income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Caesars, net of income taxes$786 $(513)$(989)
Discontinued operations, net of income taxes— (386)(30)
Net income (loss) attributable to Caesars$786 $(899)$(1,019)
Shares outstanding:
Weighted average shares outstanding – basic215 214 211 
Effect of dilutive securities:
Stock-based compensation awards— — 
Weighted average shares outstanding – diluted216 214 211 
Basic income (loss) per share from continuing operations$3.65 $(2.39)$(4.69)
Basic loss per share from discontinued operations— (1.80)(0.14)
Net income (loss) per common share attributable to common stockholders – basic:$3.65 $(4.19)$(4.83)
Diluted income (loss) per share from continuing operations$3.64 $(2.39)$(4.69)
Diluted loss per share from discontinued operations— (1.80)(0.14)
Net income (loss) per common share attributable to common stockholders – diluted:$3.64 $(4.19)$(4.83)
Weighted-Average Number of Anti-Dilutive Shares Excluded from Calculation of EPS
Years Ended December 31,
(In millions)202320222021
Stock-based compensation awards
Total anti-dilutive common stock
Note 15. Stock-Based Compensation and Stockholders’ Equity
Stock-Based Awards
The Company maintains long-term incentive plans which allow for granting stock-based compensation awards for directors, employees, officers, and consultants or advisers who render services to the Company or its subsidiaries, based on Company Common Stock, including stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units (“RSUs”), performance stock units (“PSUs”), market-based performance stock units (“MSUs”), stock appreciation rights, and other stock-based awards or dividend equivalents. Forfeitures are recognized in the period in which they occur.
Performance Incentive Plans
The Board of Directors (“Board”) adopted, and the Company’s stockholders approved, the 2015 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended and restated in 2019 (the “2015 Plan”), which allows for shares to be granted as part of the Company’s long-term incentive plan. As of December 31, 2023, the Company had 4 million shares available for grant under the 2015 Plan.
Equity awards granted to employees and executive officers generally vest within one to three years from the grant date either ratably on each anniversary, or entirely at the end of the service period. Awards may also contain performance conditions in addition to time based vesting conditions. Performance awards relate to the achievement of defined levels of performance and will vest and become payable at the end of the vesting period. Performance awards may contain targeted performance levels, which may ultimately vest within a range of 0% to 200% of the target award, based on defined operating metrics or market performance as compared to a peer group. RSUs granted to non-employee directors generally vest immediately and are issued on the vesting date, or may be deferred.
Total stock-based compensation expense in the accompanying Statements of Operations was $104 million, $101 million and $82 million during the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. These amounts are included in Corporate expenses and, in the case of certain property positions, General and administrative expenses in the Company’s Statements of Operations.
Table of Contents
98

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Restricted Stock Unit Activity
During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company granted RSUs to employees of the Company with an aggregate fair value of $78 million. Each RSU represents the right to receive payment in respect of one share of the Company’s Common Stock.
A summary of the RSUs activity for the year ended December 31, 2023 is presented in the following table:
 Units
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (a)
Unvested outstanding as of December 31, 20221,863,481 $66.87 
Granted (b)
1,487,539 52.13 
Vested(1,318,519)60.87 
Forfeited(110,082)57.43 
Unvested outstanding as of December 31, 20231,922,419 60.11 
____________________
(a)Represents the weighted-average grant date fair value of RSUs, which is the share price of our common stock on the grant date.
(b)Included are 34,167 RSUs granted to non-employee members of the Board during the year ended December 31, 2023.
Performance Stock Unit Activity
During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company granted PSUs to employees of the Company with an aggregate fair value of $9 million as of December 31, 2023. On the vesting date, recipients will receive between 0% and 200% of the target number of PSUs granted, in the form of Company Common Stock, based on the achievement of specified performance conditions. The fair value of the PSUs is based on the market price of our common stock when a mutual understanding of the key terms and conditions of the awards between the Company and recipient is achieved. The awards are remeasured each period until such an understanding is reached.
A summary of the PSUs activity for the year ended December 31, 2023 is presented in the following table:
 Units
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (a)
Unvested outstanding as of December 31, 2022383,157 $51.73 
Granted192,836 46.88 
Performance Adjustment440 
Vested(243,093)57.83 
Forfeited(5,110)49.81 
Unvested outstanding as of December 31, 2023328,230 46.88 
____________________
(a)This represents the weighted-average grant date fair value for PSUs where the grant date has been achieved or the price of our common stock as of the balance sheet date for PSUs where a grant date has not been achieved.
Market-Based Stock Unit Activity
During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company granted MSUs to employees of the Company with an aggregate fair value of $31 million. On the vesting date, recipients will receive between 0% and 200% of the granted MSUs in the form of Company Common Stock based on the achievement of specified market and service conditions. Based on the terms and conditions of the awards, the grant date fair value of the MSUs was determined using a Monte Carlo simulation model. Key assumptions for the Monte Carlo simulation model are the risk-free interest rate, expected volatility, expected dividends and correlation coefficient. The effect of market conditions is considered in determining the grant date fair value, which is not subsequently revised based on actual performance.
Table of Contents
99

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
A summary of the MSUs activity for the year ended December 31, 2023 is presented in the following table:
Units
Weighted- Average Fair Value (a)
Unvested outstanding as of December 31, 2022741,803 $83.24 
Granted379,855 80.53 
Performance Adjustment(100,612)
Vested(139,536)74.62 
Forfeited(9,491)93.28 
Unvested outstanding as of December 31, 2023872,019 85.11 
____________________
(a)Represents the grant date fair value determined using a Monte Carlo simulation model.
Stock Option Activity
SharesWeighted Average Exercise PriceWeighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (years)Aggregate Intrinsic Value
(in millions)
Outstanding as of December 31, 202288 $30.63 0.14$— 
Exercised(88)30.63 
Outstanding as of December 31, 2023— — 0— 
Vested and expected to vest as of December 31, 2023— — 0— 
Exercisable as of December 31, 2023— — 0— 
Stock Option Exercises
Years Ended December 31,
(Dollars in millions)202320222021
Option Exercises:
Number of options exercised88 43,384 114,884 
Cash received for options exercised$— $$
Aggregate intrinsic value of options exercised$— $$
Unrecognized Compensation Cost
As of December 31, 2023, the Company had $98 million of unrecognized compensation expense, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.7 years.
Common Stock
On June 17, 2021, following receipt of required shareholder approvals, the Company amended its Certificate of Incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares of common stock from 300 million to 500 million.
Preferred Stock
On June 17, 2021, following receipt of required shareholder approvals, the Company amended its Certificate of Incorporation to authorize the issuance of up to 150 million shares of preferred stock.
Share Repurchase Program
In November 2018, the Board authorized a $150 million common stock repurchase program (the “Share Repurchase Program”) pursuant to which the Company may, from time to time, repurchase shares of common stock on the open market (either with or without a 10b5-1 plan) or through privately negotiated transactions. The Share Repurchase Program has no time limit and may be suspended or discontinued at any time without notice. There is no minimum number of shares of common stock that the Company is required to repurchase under the Share Repurchase Program. 
As of December 31, 2023, the Company has acquired 223,823 shares of common stock at an aggregate value of $9 million and an average of $40.80 per share. No shares were repurchased during the years ended December 31, 2023 or 2022.
Table of Contents
100

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Note 16. Employee Benefit Plans
401(k) Plans
The Company offers a 401(k) plan to substantially all employees who are not covered by collective bargaining agreements, who meet certain eligibility requirements, namely terms of service. Under the 401(k) plan, the Company matches contributions equal to 50% of the first 6% as outlined per plan documents.
The Company’s matching contribution expense totaled $29 million, $29 million and $27 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
Defined-Benefit Plans
Scioto Downs sponsors a noncontributory defined-benefit plan covering all full-time employees meeting certain age and service requirements. On May 31, 2001, the plan was amended to freeze eligibility, accrual of years of service and benefits. As of December 31, 2023, the fair value of the plan assets and benefit obligation was $1 million. The plan assets are comprised primarily of money market and mutual funds whose values are determined based on quoted market prices and are classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. We did not make cash contributions to the Scioto Downs pension plan during 2023, 2022 and 2021.
In addition, the Company also sponsors a defined-benefit plan for certain Tropicana Atlantic City employees under a Variable Annuity Pension Plan. As of December 31, 2023, the fair value of the plan assets was $25 million and benefit obligations totaled $20 million. Contributions to the plan were $2 million for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 and $1 million for the year ended December 31, 2021.
Deferred Compensation Plans
CEI assumed two active deferred compensation plans, the Caesars Entertainment Corporation Executive Supplemental Savings Plan III (“ESSP III”) and the Caesars Entertainment Corporation Outside Director Deferred Compensation Plan. These plans are unfunded, non-qualified deferred compensation plans. Payment obligations pursuant to the plans are unsecured general obligations of the Company and affiliates of the Company employing participants in the ESSP III. The liability as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 was $5 million and $2 million, respectively, which was recorded in Other long-term liabilities in the Balance Sheets.
As of December 31, 2023, certain current and former employees of Caesars, and our subsidiaries and affiliates, have balances under: (i) the Harrah’s Entertainment, Inc. Executive Supplemental Savings Plan, (ii) the Harrah’s Entertainment, Inc. Executive Supplemental Savings Plan II, (iii) the Park Place Entertainment Corporation Executive Deferred Compensation Plan, (iv) the Harrah’s Entertainment, Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan, and (v) the Harrah’s Entertainment, Inc. Executive Deferred Compensation Plan (collectively, the “existing deferred compensation plans”). These plans are deferred compensation plans that allowed certain employees an opportunity to save for retirement and other purposes. Each of the plans is now frozen and is no longer accepting contributions. However, participants may still earn returns on existing plan balances based upon their selected investment alternatives, which are reflected in their deferral accounts. The total liability recorded in Other long-term liabilities in the Balance Sheets for these plans was $31 million and $33 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Trust Assets
CEI is a party to a trust agreement (the “Trust Agreement”) and an escrow agreement with respect to all five of the existing deferred compensation plans (the “Escrow Agreement”), each structured as a so-called “rabbi trust” arrangement, which holds assets that may be used to satisfy obligations under the existing deferred compensation plans above. Amounts held pursuant to the Trust Agreement and the Escrow Agreement were $67 million and $60 million, as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and have been reflected within Other long-term assets, net in the Balance Sheets.
Table of Contents
101

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Multi-employer Pension Plans
The Company contributes to a number of multi-employer defined benefit pension plans under the terms of collective bargaining agreements that cover union-represented employees. The risks of participating in these multi-employer plans are different from a single-employer plan in the following respects:
i.Assets contributed to the multi-employer plan by one employer may be used to provide benefits to employees of other participating employers.
ii.If a participating employer stops contributing to the plan, the unfunded obligations of the plan may be borne by the remaining participating employers.
iii.If the Company chooses to stop participating in some of its multi-employer plans, the Company may be required to pay those plans an amount based on the underfunding of the plan, referred to as a “withdrawal liability.”
Multi-employer Pension Plan Participation
Pension Protection Act Zone Status (a)
Contributions
(In millions)
Pension FundEIN/Pension Plan Number2023
FIP/RP Status (b)
202320222021Surcharge Imposed
Expiration Date of Collective Bargaining Agreement (c)
Southern Nevada Culinary and Bartenders Pension Plan (d)
88-6016617/001GreenNo$26 $24 $18 NoSeptember 30, 2028
Legacy Plan of the UNITE HERE Retirement Fund (d)(e)
82-0994119/001RedYes10 99NoVarious up to May 31, 2026
Central Pension Fund of the IUOE & Participating Employers36-6052390/001GreenNoN/AMarch 31, 2024
Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Plan91-6145047/001GreenNoN/AMarch 31, 2024
Painters IUPAT52-6073909/001YellowNoNoVarious up to June 30, 2026
Other Funds32
Total Contributions$55 $50 $41 
____________________
(a)Represents the Pension Protection Act zone status for applicable plan year beginning January 1, except where noted otherwise. The zone status is based on information that the Company received from the plan administrator and is certified by the plan’s actuary. Among other factors, plans in the red zone are generally less than 65% funded, plans in the yellow zone are between 65% and less than 80% funded, and plans in the green zone are at least 80% funded. All plans detailed in the table above utilized extended amortization provisions to calculate zone status.
(b)Indicates plans for which a financial improvement plan (“FIP”) or a rehabilitation plan (“RP”) is either pending or has been implemented.
(c)The terms of the current agreement continue indefinitely until either party provides appropriate notice of intent to terminate the contract.
(d)The Company provided more than 5% of the total contributions for the plan year ended December 31, 2022 and as of the date the financial statements were issued, Forms 5500 were not available for the 2023 plan year.
(e)The HEREIU Pension Fund consists of two separate plans, the Legacy Plan of the HEREIU Pension Fund and the Adjustable Plan of the HEREIU Pension Fund. CEI makes a single contribution to the HEREIU Pension Fund, the Trustees of which allocate such contribution between the Legacy Plan and the Adjustable Plan. The contribution amount reflected to the Legacy Plan is the aggregate contribution made to the HEREIU Pension Fund before such allocation between the Legacy Plan and the Adjustable Plan of the HEREIU Pension Fund.
Note 17. Income Taxes
The components of the Company’s provision for income taxes for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 are presented below.
Components of Income (Loss) Before Income TaxesYears Ended December 31,
(In millions)202320222021
United States$(90)$(590)$(1,272)
Outside of the U.S.30 25 
$(60)$(565)$(1,269)
Table of Contents
102

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Income Tax Provision (Benefit) from Continuing OperationsYears Ended December 31,
(In millions)202320222021
United States
Current
Federal$— $— $(1)
State & Local23 (2)
Deferred
Federal(754)(57)(219)
State & Local(166)(106)
Outside of the U.S.
Current
Deferred— — 43 
$(888)$(41)$(283)
The following is an allocation of the total income tax provision (benefit) for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021:

Years Ended December 31,
(In millions)202320222021
Income tax provision (benefit) applicable to:
Income from continuing operations$(888)$(41)$(283)
Discontinued operations— (50)19 
Additional paid-in capital(12)— — 
Other comprehensive income(30)
The following is a reconciliation of the statutory federal income tax of 21% to the Company’s reported income tax provision (benefit) for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021:

Years Ended December 31,
(In millions)202320222021
Federal statutory income tax provision (benefit)$(13)$(118)$(267)
State and local income tax provision (benefit)(13)(54)
Nondeductible compensation and benefits16 13 
Goodwill impairment— 
Nondeductible convertible notes costs— — 42 
Decrease in uncertain tax positions— (1)(6)
Change in tax rates from change in tax law before valuation allowance25 86 15 
Foreign taxes
Deferred tax adjustment related to William Hill acquisition— 30 — 
Minority interests(9)— 
Valuation allowance(889)(55)(34)
Tax credits(14)(10)(5)
Deferred tax recognition on life insurance— — 17 
Other
Reported income tax provision (benefit)$(888)$(41)$(283)
Table of Contents
103

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. Significant components of the Company’s net deferred taxes at December 31, 2023 and 2022 are as follows:
As of December 31,
(In millions)20232022
Deferred tax assets:
Loss carryforwards$569 $779 
Excess business interest expense399 288 
Credit carryforwards141 126 
Financing obligation2,644 2,534 
Long-term lease obligation208 160 
Other233 272 
4,194 4,159 
Deferred tax liabilities:
Identified intangibles(759)(803)
Fixed assets(2,295)(2,243)
Right-of-use assets(174)(128)
Other(101)(163)
(3,329)(3,337)
Valuation allowance(920)(1,809)
Net deferred tax liabilities$(55)$(987)
Management assesses the available positive and negative evidence to estimate if sufficient future taxable income will be generated to use existing deferred tax assets. During the second quarter of 2023, the Company evaluated its forecasted adjusted taxable income and objectively verifiable evidence and placed substantial weight on its 2022 and 2023 quarterly earnings, adjusted for non-recurring items, including the interest expense disallowed under current tax law. Accordingly, the Company determined it was more likely than not that a portion of the federal and state deferred tax assets will be realized and, as a result, during the second quarter of 2023, the Company reversed the valuation allowance related to these deferred tax assets and recorded an income tax benefit of $940 million. The Company is still carrying a valuation allowance on certain federal and state deferred tax assets that are not more likely than not to be realized in the future. The Company has assessed the changes to the valuation allowance, including realization of the disallowed interest expense deferred tax asset, using the integrated approach.
As of December 31, 2023, the Company had federal and state net operating loss carryforwards of $872 million and $9.0 billion, respectively, and federal general business tax credit and research tax credit carryforwards of $145 million, which will expire on various dates as follows:
Year of ExpirationNet Operating LossesTax Credits
(In millions)FederalStatesFederal
2024-2028$— $604 $
2029-2033238 1,590 39 
2034-2043168 4,560 98 
Do not expire466 2,279 — 
$872 $9,033 $145 
In general, Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code provides an annual limitation with respect to the ability of a corporation to utilize its net operating loss carryovers, as well as certain built-in losses, against future taxable income in the event of a change in ownership. It is unlikely that the limitation will adversely affect the Company’s ability to utilize its net operating loss carryovers against its future taxable income.
Table of Contents
104

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax BenefitsYears Ended December 31,
(In millions)202320222021
Balance as of beginning of year$128 $157 $137 
Acquisition of William Hill— — 32 
Sale of William Hill International— (24)— 
Additions based on tax positions related to the current year— 
Additions for tax positions of prior years
Reductions for tax positions for prior years(5)(8)(8)
Expiration of statutes— (1)(13)
Balance as of end of year$124 $128 $157 
We classify reserves for tax uncertainties within Other long-term liabilities in our Balance Sheets, separate from any related income tax payable, deferred tax asset, or deferred tax liability. Reserve amounts relate to any potential income tax liabilities resulting from uncertain tax positions as well as potential interest or penalties associated with those liabilities.
We accrue interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. During 2023, we decreased our unrecognized tax benefits by $4 million, primarily due to the noncash settlement of a state audit. During 2022, we decreased our unrecognized tax benefits by $29 million, primarily due to the sale of William Hill International. During 2021, we increased our unrecognized tax benefits by $20 million, primarily due to the William Hill Acquisition. There was no accrual for the payment of interest and penalties as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022. Included in the balances of unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022 was $112 million and $115 million, respectively, of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate.
In 2021, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (the “OECD”) established an Inclusive Framework on Base Erosion and Profit Shifting and agreed on a two-pillar solution (“Pillar Two”) to global taxation, focusing on global profit allocation and a 15% global minimum effective tax rate. The OECD issued Pillar Two model rules and continues to release guidance on these rules. While the US has not yet adopted the Pillar Two rules, various other countries around the world are enacting legislation. We will continue to analyze the law to determine potential impacts. We currently do not expect the Framework to have a material impact on our effective tax rate or our financial statements.
The Company, including its subsidiaries, files tax returns with federal, state and foreign jurisdictions. The Company does not have tax sharing agreements with the other members within the consolidated group. With few exceptions, the Company is no longer subject to US federal or state and local tax assessments by tax authorities for years before 2020. We believe that it is reasonably possible that the unrecognized tax benefits liability will not materially change within the next 12 months. Audit outcomes and the timing of audit settlements are subject to significant uncertainty. Although we believe that adequate provision has been made for such issues, there is the possibility that the ultimate resolution of such issues could have an adverse effect on our earnings. Conversely, if these issues are resolved favorably in the future, the related provision would be reduced, thus having a favorable impact on earnings.
Note 18. Related Party Transactions
C. S. & Y. Associates
The Company owns the entire parcel on which Eldorado Resort Casino Reno is located, except for approximately 30,000 square feet which is leased from C. S. & Y. Associates (“CSY”) (the “CSY Lease”). CSY is a general partnership in which a trust has an approximate 27% interest. The Company’s Executive Chairman of the Board, Gary L. Carano, and his siblings are direct or indirect beneficiaries of the trust. The CSY Lease expires on June 30, 2057. Annual rent pursuant to the CSY Lease is currently $0.6 million, paid monthly. Annual rent is subject to periodic rent escalations of 1 to 2 percent through the term of the lease. Commensurate with its interest, the trust receives directly from the Company approximately 27% of the rent paid by the Company. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022 there were no amounts due to or from CSY.
CVA Holdco, LLC
In May 2023, the Company entered into a joint venture, CVA Holdco, LLC, with EBCI and an additional minority partner, to construct, own and operate a gaming facility in Danville, Virginia (“Caesars Virginia”). Caesars Virginia opened in a temporary facility on May 15, 2023 which will be replaced by a permanent facility that is currently under construction and is estimated to open in late 2024. As the managing member, the Company will operate the business and manage the development, construction, financing, marketing, leasing, maintenance and day-to-day operation of the various phases of the project. While the Company holds a 49.5% variable interest in the joint venture, it is the primary beneficiary; as such, the joint venture’s operations are included in the Financial Statements, with a minority interest recorded reflecting the operations attributed to the other partners.
Table of Contents
105

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
The Company participates ratably, based on ownership percentage, with the partners in the profits and losses of the joint venture. As of December 31, 2023, the Company has received $116 million in contributions for the project and EBCI and the other minority partners are obligated to contribute additional cash totaling $8 million to the joint venture.

Note 1. Organization19. Segment Information
The executive decision maker of the Company reviews operating results, assesses performance and Basismakes decisions on a “significant market” basis. Management views each of Presentation

the Company’s casinos as an operating segment. Operating segments are aggregated based on their similar economic characteristics, types of customers, types of services and products provided, and their management and reporting structure. The accompanyingCompany’s principal operating activities occur in four reportable segments. The reportable segments are based on the similar characteristics of the operating segments with the way management assesses these results and allocates resources, which is a consolidated financial statements includeview that adjusts for the accountseffect of Eldorado Resorts, Inc. (“ERI” orcertain transactions between these reportable segments within Caesars: (1) Las Vegas, (2) Regional, (3) Caesars Digital, and (4) Managed and Branded, in addition to Corporate and Other. See table below for a summary of these segments. Also, see Note 4, Note 6 and Note 7 for a discussion of the “Company”), a Nevada corporation formedimpairment of intangibles and long-lived assets related to certain segments.

The following table sets forth certain information regarding our properties (listed by segment in September 2013, and its consolidated subsidiaries. The Company acquired Mountaineer, Presque Isle Downs and Scioto Downs in September 2014 pursuant to a merger (the “MTR Merger”) with MTR Gaming Group, Inc. (“MTR Gaming”) and in November 2015 it acquiredwhich each property is reported) as of December 31, 2023:
Las VegasRegionalManaged and Branded
Caesars Palace Las VegasCaesars Atlantic CityHarveys Lake TahoeManaged
The Cromwell
Caesars Virginia (a)
Horseshoe BaltimoreHarrah’s Ak-Chin
Flamingo Las VegasCircus Circus RenoHorseshoe Black HawkHarrah’s Cherokee
Harrah’s Las VegasEldorado Gaming Scioto DownsHorseshoe Bossier CityHarrah’s Cherokee Valley River
Horseshoe Las VegasEldorado Resort Casino RenoHorseshoe Council BluffsHarrah’s Resort Southern California
The LINQ Hotel & CasinoGrand Victoria CasinoHorseshoe HammondCaesars Windsor
Paris Las VegasHarrah’s Atlantic CityHorseshoe IndianapolisBranded
Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino
Harrah’s Columbus Nebraska (b)
Horseshoe Lake CharlesCaesars Southern Indiana
Harrah’s Council BluffsHorseshoe St. LouisHarrah’s Northern California
Caesars DigitalHarrah’s Gulf CoastHorseshoe Tunica
Caesars DigitalHarrah’s Hoosier Park Racing & CasinoIsle Casino Bettendorf
Harrah’s JolietIsle of Capri Casino Boonville
Harrah’s Lake TahoeIsle of Capri Casino Lula
Harrah’s LaughlinIsle Casino Waterloo
Harrah’s MetropolisLady Luck Casino - Black Hawk
Harrah’s New OrleansSilver Legacy Resort Casino
Harrah’s North Kansas CityTrop Casino Greenville
Harrah’s PhiladelphiaTropicana Atlantic City
Harrah’s Pompano BeachTropicana Laughlin Hotel & Casino
___________________
(a)Temporary gaming facility opened on May 15, 2023. The construction of the permanent facility of Caesars Virginia is expected to be completed in late 2024.
(b)Temporary gaming facility opened on June 12, 2023. The construction of the permanent facility of Harrah’s Columbus Nebraska is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2024.
Certain of our properties operate off-track betting locations, including Harrah’s Hoosier Park Racing & Casino, which operates Winner’s Circle Indianapolis and Winner’s Circle New Haven; and Horseshoe Indianapolis, which operates Winner’s Circle Clarksville. The LINQ Promenade is an open-air dining, entertainment, and retail promenade located on the east side of the Las Vegas Strip next to The LINQ Hotel & Casino (the “LINQ”) that features the High Roller, a 550-foot observation wheel, and the interestsFly LINQ Zipline attraction. We also own the CAESARS FORUM conference center, which is a 550,000 square feet conference center with 300,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, two of the largest pillarless ballrooms in the Silver Legacyworld and direct access to the LINQ. Caesars will also open its first non-gaming hotel experience in the first half of 2024 with the opening of Caesars Republic Scottsdale featuring more than 250 hotel rooms, approximately 20,000 square feet of event space and hotel amenities including, pools, bars, lounges, and celebrity partnered restaurants.
Table of Contents
106

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
“Corporate and Other” includes certain unallocated corporate overhead costs and other adjustments, including eliminations of transactions among segments, to reconcile to the Company’s consolidated results.
The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, certain operating data for the Company’s four reportable segments, in addition to Corporate and Other.
Years Ended December 31,
(In millions)202320222021
Las Vegas:
Net revenues$4,470 $4,287 $3,409 
Adjusted EBITDA2,016 1,964 1,568 
Regional:
Net revenues5,778 5,704 5,537 
Adjusted EBITDA1,962 1,985 1,979 
Caesars Digital:
Net revenues973 548 337 
Adjusted EBITDA38 (666)(476)
Managed and Branded:
Net revenues307 282 278 
Adjusted EBITDA76 84 87 
Corporate and Other:
Net revenues— — 
Adjusted EBITDA(154)(124)(168)
Reconciliation of Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Caesars to Adjusted EBITDA by Segment
Adjusted EBITDA is presented as a measure of the Company’s performance. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as revenues less certain operating expenses and is comprised of net income (loss) before (i) interest income and interest expense, net of interest capitalized, (ii) income tax (benefit) provision, (iii) depreciation and amortization, and (iv) certain items that it didwe do not own priorconsider indicative of our ongoing operating performance at an operating property level.
In evaluating Adjusted EBITDA you should be aware that, in the future, we may incur expenses that are the same or similar to such date (the “Reno Acquisition”)some of the adjustments in this presentation. The presentation of Adjusted EBITDA should not be construed as an inference that future results will be unaffected by unusual or unexpected items.
Adjusted EBITDA is a financial measure commonly used in our industry and should not be construed as an alternative to net income (loss) as an indicator of operating performance or as an alternative to cash flow provided by operating activities as a measure of liquidity (as determined in accordance with GAAP).

Throughout Adjusted EBITDA may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies within the industry. Adjusted EBITDA is included because management uses Adjusted EBITDA to measure performance and allocate resources, and believes that Adjusted EBITDA provides investors with additional information consistent with that used by management.

Table of Contents
107

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Years Ended December 31,
(In millions)202320222021
Net income (loss) attributable to Caesars$786 $(899)$(1,019)
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests42 (11)
Net loss from discontinued operations— 386 30 
Benefit for income taxes(888)(41)(283)
Other (income) loss (a)
(10)(46)198 
Loss on extinguishment of debt200 85 236 
Interest expense, net2,342 2,265 2,295 
Depreciation and amortization1,261 1,205 1,126 
Impairment charges95 108 102 
Transaction costs and other (b)
90 220 
Stock-based compensation expense104 101 82 
Adjusted EBITDA$3,938 $3,243 $2,990 
Adjusted EBITDA by Segment:
Las Vegas$2,016 $1,964 $1,568 
Regional1,962 1,985 1,979 
Caesars Digital38 (666)(476)
Managed and Branded76 84 87 
Corporate and Other(154)(124)(168)
____________________
(a)Other (income) loss primarily includes the net changes in fair value of (i) investments held by the Company (ii) foreign exchange forward contracts (iii) a disputed claims liability, and (iv) the derivative liability related to the 5% convertible notes, which were fully converted during the year ended December 31, 2017, ERI owned2021, and operated the following properties:

Eldorado Resort Casino Reno (Eldorado Reno)A 814-room hotel, casino and entertainment facility connected via an enclosed skywalk to Silver Legacy and Circus Reno located in downtown Reno, Nevada that includes 1,125 slot machines and 46 table games;

Silver Legacy Resort Casino (Silver Legacy)A 1,711-room themed hotel and casino connected via an enclosed skywalk to Eldorado Reno and Circus Reno that includes 1,187 slot machines, 63 table games and a 13 table poker room;

Circus Circus Reno (Circus Reno)A 1,571-room hotel-casino and entertainment complex connected via an enclosed skywalk to Eldorado Reno and Silver Legacy that includes 712 slot machines and 24 table games;

Eldorado Resort Casino Shreveport (Eldorado Shreveport)A 403-room, all suite art deco-style hotel and tri-level riverboat dockside casino situated on the Red River in Shreveport, Louisiana that includes 1,397 slot machines, 52 table games and an eight table poker room;

Mountaineer Casino, Racetrack & Resort (Mountaineer)A 357-room hotel, casino, entertainment and live thoroughbred horse racing facility located on the Ohio River at the northern tip of West Virginias northwestern panhandle that includes 1,508 slot machines and 36 table games, including a 10 table poker room;

Presque Isle Downs & Casino (Presque Isle Downs)A casino and live thoroughbred horse racing facility with 1,593 slot machines, 33 table games and a seven table poker room located in Erie, Pennsylvania; and

Eldorado Gaming Scioto Downs (Scioto Downs)A modern racino offering 2,245 VLTs, harness racing and a 118-room third party hotel connected to Scioto Downs located 15 minutes from downtown Columbus, Ohio.

In addition, on May 1, 2017, the Company consummated its acquisition of Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. and acquired the following properties:

Isle Casino HotelBlack Hawk (“Isle Black Hawk”)A land-based casino on an approximately 10-acre site in Black Hawk, Colorado that includes 1,026 slot machines, 27 table games, a nine table poker room and a 238-room hotel;

Lady Luck CasinoBlack Hawk (“Lady Luck Black Hawk”)A land-based casino across the intersection from Isle Casino Hotel in Black Hawk Colorado, that includes 452 slot machines, 10 table games, five poker tables and a 164-room hotel with a parking structure connecting Isle Casino Hotel-Black Hawk and Lady Luck Casino-Black Hawk;

Isle Casino Racing Pompano Park (“Pompano”)A casino and harness racing track on an approximately 223-acre owned site in Pompano Beach, Florida that includes 1,455 slot machines and a 45 table poker room;

Isle Casino Bettendorf (“Bettendorf”)A land-based single-level casino located off Interstate 74 in Bettendorf, Iowa that includes 978 slot machines and 20 table games with two hotel towers with 509 hotel rooms;

Isle Casino Waterloo (“Waterloo”)A single-level land-based casino in Waterloo, Iowa that includes 940 slot machines, 25 table games, and a 194-room hotel;


Isle of Capri Casino Hotel Lake Charles (“Lake Charles”)A gaming vessel on an approximately 19 acre site in Lake Charles, Louisiana, with 1,173 slot machines, 47 table games, including 13 poker tables, and two hotels offering 493 rooms;

Isle of Capri Casino Lula (“Lula”)Two dockside casinos in Lula, Mississippi with 875 slot machines and 20 table games, two on-site hotels with a total of 486 rooms and a 28-space RV Park;

Lady Luck Casino Vicksburg (“Vicksburg”)A dockside casino in Vicksburg, Mississippi that includes 616 slot machines, nine table games and a hotel with a total of 89 rooms;

Isle of Capri Casino Boonville (“Boonville”)A single-level dockside casino in Boonville, Missouri that includes 893 slot machines, 20 table games and a 140-room hotel;

Isle Casino Cape Girardeau (“Cape Girardeau”)A dockside casino and pavilion and entertainment center in Cape Girardeau, Missouri that includes 872 slot machines and 24 table games, including four poker tables;

Lady Luck Casino Caruthersville (“Caruthersville”)—A riverboat casino located along the Mississippi River in Caruthersville, Missouri that includes 516 slot machines and nine table games;

Isle of Capri Casino Kansas City (“Kansas City”)A dockside casino located close to downtown Kansas City, Missouri offering 966 slot machines and 18 table games; and

Lady Luck Casino Nemacolin (“Nemacolin”)A casino property located on the 2,000-acre Nemacolin Woodlands Resort in Western Pennsylvania that includes 600 slot machines and 28 table games.  

In addition, Scioto Downs, through its subsidiary RacelineBet, Inc., also operates Racelinebet.com, a national account wagering service that offers online and telephone wagering on horse races as a marketing affiliate of TwinSpires.com, an affiliate of Churchill Downs, Inc.

Acquisition of Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. and Refinancing

On May 1, 2017 (the “Isle Acquisition Date”), the Company completed its acquisition of Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “Merger Agreement”) dated as of September 19, 2016 with Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“Isle” or “Isle of Capri”), Eagle I Acquisition Corp., a Delaware corporation and a direct wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, and Eagle II Acquisition Company LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and a direct wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company (the “Isle Acquisition” or the “Isle Merger”). As a result of the Isle Merger, Isle became a wholly-owned subsidiary of ERI and, at the effective time of the Isle Merger, each outstanding share of Isle’s stock converted into the right to receive $23.00 in cash or 1.638 shares of ERI common stock (the “Stock Consideration”), at the election of the applicable Isle shareholder and subject to proration such that the outstanding shares of Isle common stock were exchanged for aggregate consideration comprised of 58% cash, or $552.0 million, and 42% ERI common stock, or 28.5 million newly issued shares of ERI common stock. The total purchase consideration was $1.93 billion (See Note 3).

In connection with the Isle Acquisition, the Company completed a debt financing transaction comprised of: (a) a senior secured credit facility in an aggregate principal amount of $1.75 billion with a (i) term loan facility of $1.45 billion and (ii) revolving credit facility of $300.0 million and (b) $375.0 million of senior unsecured notes. The proceeds of such borrowings were used to pay the cash portion of the consideration payable in the Isle Merger, refinance all of Isle’s existing credit facilities, redeem or otherwise repurchase all of Isle’s senior and senior subordinated notes, refinance the Company’s existing credit facility and pay transaction fees and expenses related to the foregoing (See Note 9 for further discussion of the refinancing transaction and terms of such indebtedness).

On September 13, 2017, the Company issued an additional $500.0 million in aggregate principal amount of its 6% Senior Notes (as defined below) at an issue price equal to 105.5% of the principal amount. The 6% Senior Notes were issued as additional notes under the New Indenture dated March 29, 2017 (as defined below), as supplemented by the supplemental indenture dated as of May 1, 2017 between the Company, the guarantors party thereto and U.S. Bank National Association, pursuant to which the Company previously issued $375.0 million aggregate principal amount of 6% Senior Notes. The additional 6% Senior Notes formed part of a single class of securities together with the initial 6% Senior Notes for all purposes under the New Indenture, including waivers, amendments, redemptions and offers to purchase.

Transaction expenses attributed to the Isle Acquisition are reported on the accompanying statements of income related to legal, accounting, financial advisory services, severance, stock awards and other costs totaling $92.8 million and $8.6


million during the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. As of December 31, 2017, $0.1 million of accrued costs and expenses related to the Isle Acquisition are included in accrued other liabilities. Additionally, we recognized a loss of $27.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 related to the extinguishment of Isle debt and the payment of interest and call premiums in conjunction with the Isle Acquisition.

On August 22, 2016, Isle entered into a definitive agreement (the “Agreement”) to sell its casino and hotel property in Lake Charles, Louisiana, for $134.5 million, subject to a customary purchase price adjustment, to an affiliate of Laguna Development Corporation (the “Buyer”), a Pueblo of Laguna-owned business based in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The Agreement was assumed by the Company at the Isle Acquisition Date. On November 21, 2017, the Company terminated the Agreement. The closing of the transaction was subject to certain closing conditions, including obtaining certain gaming approvals, and was to occur on or before the termination date, which had been extended by the parties to November 20, 2017. The Buyer did not obtain the required gaming approvals prior to the termination date, and pursuant to the terms of the Agreement, the Company retained the Buyer’s $20.0 million deposit. The Buyer agreed to the termination and its terms. The $20.0 million forfeited deposit was recorded as income on the accompanying statements of income as “Proceeds from Terminated Sale.” In previous periods, the operations of Lake Charles have been classified as discontinued operations and as assets held for sale for all periods presented. As a result of the termination, Lake Charles is no longer classified as assets held for sale and accounted for as discontinued operations and is included in our results of operations for the eight-month period from the Isle Acquisition Date through December 31, 2017.

Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Principles of Consolidation.  The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company as described in Note 1. All significant intercompany transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Use of Estimates.  The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Significant estimates incorporated into the Company’s consolidated financial statements include estimated useful lives for depreciable and amortizable assets, estimated allowance for doubtful accounts receivable, estimated cash flows in assessing goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment and the recoverability of long‑lived assets, self‑insurance reserves, players’ club liabilities, contingencies and litigation, claims and assessments, and fair value measurements related to the Company’s long‑term debt. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

Cash and Cash Equivalents.  Cash equivalents include investments in money market funds. Investments in this category can be redeemed immediately at the current net asset value per share. A money market fund is a mutual fund whose investments are primarily in short‑term debt securities designed to maximize current income with liquidity and capital preservation, usually maintaining per share net asset value at a constant amount, such as one dollar. Cash and cash equivalents also includes cash maintained for gaming operations. The carrying amounts approximate the fair value because of the short maturity of those instruments (Level 1).

Restricted Cash and Investments.  Restricted cash includes cash reserved for unredeemed winning tickets from the Company’s racing operations, funds related to horsemen’s fines and certain simulcasting funds that are restricted to payments for improving horsemen’s facilities and racing purses, cash deposits that serve as collateral for letters of credit, surety bonds and short-term certificates of deposit that serve as collateral for certain bonding requirements. The estimated fair values of our restricted cash and investments are based upon quoted prices available in active markets (Level 1), or quoted prices for similar assets in active and inactive markets (Level 2), and represent the amounts we would expect to receive if we sold our restricted cash and investments. Restricted investments, included in Other Assets, net, relate to trading securities pledged as collateral by our captive insurance wholly-owned subsidiary.

The Company also has certificates of deposit which are used for security with the Nevada Department of Insurance for its self‑insured workers compensation, West Virginia Division of Environmental Protection and Port Resources for the land lease at Lake Charles. The Nevada certificate of deposit of $628,000 matured on January 28, 2018 at which time it was renewed and the maturity date was extended to January 29, 2019. The West Virginia certificates of deposits in the amounts of $123,000 and $76,000 both mature on October 27, 2018 and the Lake Charles certificate of deposit is for $1.0 million and matures on July 13, 2018.


Marketable Securities. Marketable securities consist primarily of trading securities held by the Company’s captive insurance subsidiary. The trading securities are primarily debt and equity securities that are purchased with the intention to resell in the near term. The trading securities are carried at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in current period income, and this accounting policy was implemented as of the Isle Acquisition Date. For the year ended December 31, 2017, we recorded a $0.1 million loss related to the change in fair value which is included in corporate expenses in the accompanying statements of income.

Accounts Receivable and Credit Risk.  Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of casino accounts receivable. The Company issues markers to approved casino customers following background checks and assessments of creditworthiness. Trade receivables, including casino and hotel receivables, are typically non‑interest bearing. Accounts are written off when management deems the account to be uncollectible. Recoveries of accounts previously written off are recorded when received. An estimated allowance for doubtful accounts is maintained to reduce the Company’s receivables to their carrying amount, which approximates fair value. The allowance is estimated based on specific review of customer accounts as well as historical collection experience and current economic and business conditions. Management believes that as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, no significant concentrations of credit risk related to receivables existed.

Inventories.  Inventories are stated at the lower of average cost, using a first‑in, first‑out basis, or market. Inventories consist primarily of food and beverage, retail merchandise and operating supplies.

Property and Equipment.  Property and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation is computed using the straight‑line method over the estimated useful life of the asset or the term of the capitalized lease, whichever is less. Costs of major improvements are capitalized, while costs of normal repairs and maintenance are charged to expense as incurred. Gains or losses on the disposal of property and equipment are included in operating income.

Buildings and improvements

10 to 40 years

Land improvements

10 to 20 years

Furniture, fixtures and equipment

3 to 20 years

Riverboat

10 to 25 years

Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliates. The Company’s investments in unconsolidated affiliates which are 50% or less owned are accounted for under the equity method and included in other assets, net. The Company does have variable interests in variable interest entities; however, we are not the primary beneficiary. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

The Company considers whether the fair values of any of its equity method investments have declined below their carrying value whenever adverse events or changes in circumstances indicate that recorded values may not be recoverable. Estimated fair value is determined using a discounted cash flow analysis based on estimated future results of the investee and market indicators of terminal year capitalization rate. There were no impairments of the Company’s equity method investments during 2017, 2016 or 2015.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets and Non‑Operating Real Properties.  Goodwill represents the excess of purchase price over fair market value of net assets acquired in business combinations. Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets must be reviewed for impairment at least annually and between annual test dates in certain circumstances. The Company performs its annual impairment tests in the fourth quarter of each fiscal year. As a result of the annual impairment review for goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets, the Company recorded impairment charges of $34.9 million and $3.1 million related to goodwill and trade names, respectively, in 2017. No impairments were indicated as a result of the annual impairment review for goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets in 2016 or 2015.

We have designated certain assets, consisting principally of land and undeveloped properties, as non‑operating real property and have declared our intent to sell those assets. However, we do not anticipate that we will be able to sell the majority of the assets within the next twelve months. As such, these properties are not classified as held‑for‑sale as of December 31, 2017.


Indefinite‑Lived Intangible Assets.  Indefinite‑lived intangible assets consist primarily of expenditures associated with obtaining racing and gaming licenses. Indefinite‑lived intangible assets are not subject to amortization, but are subject to an annual impairment test. If the carrying amount of an indefinite‑lived intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess amount.

Self‑Insurance Reserves.  The Company is self‑insured for various levels of general liability, employee medical insurance coverage and workers’ compensation coverage. Insurance claims and reserves include accruals of estimated settlements for known claims, as well as accruals of estimates for claims incurred but not yet reported. We utilize independent consultants to assist management in its determination of estimated insurance liabilities. While the total cost of claims incurred depends on future developments, in managements’ opinion, recorded reserves are adequate to cover future claims payments. Self-insurance reserves for employee medical claims and workers’ compensations are included in accrued payroll and related on the consolidated balance sheets. Self-insurance reserves for general liability claims are included in accrued other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.

Outstanding Chip Liability.  The Company recognizes the impact on gaming revenues on an annual basis to reflect an estimate of the change in the valueforeign exchange rate associated with restricted cash held in GBP associated with our acquisition of outstanding chips that are not expected to be redeemed. This estimate is determined by measuring the difference between the total value of chips placed in service less the value of chips in the inventory of chips under our control. This measurement is performed on an annual basis utilizing a methodology in which a consistent formula is applied to estimate the percentage value of chips not in custody that are not expected to be redeemed. In addition to the formula, certain judgments are made with regard to various denominations and souvenir chips. The outstanding chip liability is included in accrued other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.

Loyalty Program.  The Company offers programs at its properties whereby our participating patrons can accumulate points for wagering that can be redeemed for credits for free play on slot machines, lodging, food and beverage, merchandise and in limited situations, cash. Based upon the estimated redemptions of frequent player program points, an estimated liability is established for the cost of redemption of earned but unredeemed points. The estimated cost of redemption utilizes estimates and assumptions of the mix of the various product offerings for which the points will be redeemed andWilliam Hill.

(b)Transaction costs of such product offerings. Changes in the programs, membership levels and changes in the redemption patterns of our participating patrons can impact this liability. The loyalty program liability is included in accrued other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.

Revenues and Promotional Allowances.  The Company recognizes as casino revenue the net win from gaming activities, which is the difference between gaming wins and losses. Progressive jackpots are accrued and charged to revenue at the time the obligation to pay the jackpot is established. Gaming revenues are recognized net of certain cash and free play incentives. Pari‑mutuel commissions consist of commissions earned from thoroughbred and harness racing and importing of simulcast signals from other race tracks and are recognized at the time wagers are made. Such commissions are a designated portion of the wagering handle as determined by state racing commissions, and are shown net of the taxes assessed by state and local agencies, as well as purses and other contractual amounts paid to horsemen associations. The Company recognizes revenues from fees earned through the exporting of simulcast signals to other race tracks at the time wagers are made. Such fees are based upon a predetermined percentage of handle as contracted with the other race tracks. Hotel, food and beverage, and other operating revenues are recognized as services are performed. Advance deposits on rooms and advance ticket sales are recorded as accrued liabilities until services are provided to the customer.

The retail value of food, beverage, rooms and other services furnished to customers on a complimentary basis is included in gross revenues and then deducted as promotional allowances. The Company rewards customers, through the use of our loyalty programs, with complimentaries based on amounts wagered or won that can be redeemed for a specified time period. The Company also offers discretionary coupons to our customers, the retail values of which are included as a component of promotional allowances in the accompanying consolidated statements of income in accordance with FASB Section 605‑50 for revenue recognition.

The retail value of complimentaries included in promotional allowances is as follows (in thousands):

 

 

For the Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

Food and beverage

 

$

 

87,677

 

 

$

 

56,335

 

 

$

 

44,998

 

Hotel

 

 

 

37,117

 

 

 

 

27,070

 

 

 

 

15,711

 

Other

 

 

 

8,291

 

 

 

 

6,895

 

 

 

 

4,048

 

 

 

$

 

133,085

 

 

$

 

90,300

 

 

$

 

64,757

 


The costs of providing such complimentary services are recorded in casino expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income and are estimated as follows (in thousands):

 

 

For the Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

Food and beverage

 

$

 

73,823

 

 

$

 

39,288

 

 

$

 

31,220

 

Hotel

 

 

 

15,795

 

 

 

 

10,077

 

 

 

 

6,638

 

Other

 

 

 

6,295

 

 

 

 

4,672

 

 

 

 

2,330

 

 

 

$

 

95,913

 

 

$

 

54,037

 

 

$

 

40,188

 

Advertising.  Advertising costs are expensed in the period the advertising initially takes place and are included in marketing and promotions expenses. Advertising costs included in marketing and promotion expenses were $33.0 million, $15.5 million and $11.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Income Taxes.  We account for income taxes in accordance with ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes (“ASC 740”). ASC 740 requires the recognition of deferred income tax liabilities and deferred income tax assets for the difference between the book basis and tax basis of assets and liabilities. We have recorded valuation allowances related toprimarily includes (i) net operating loss carry forwards and certain temporary differences. Recognizable future tax benefits are subject to a valuation allowance, unless such tax benefits are determined to be more-likely-than-not realizable. We recognize accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense.

Stock‑Based Compensation. We account for stock‑based compensation in accordance with ASC Topic 718, Compensation—Stock Compensation. ASC 718 requires all share‑based payments to employees and non‑employee members of the Board of Directors, including grants of stock options and restricted stock units (“RSUs”), to be recognized in the consolidated statements of income based on their fair values and that compensation expense be recognized for awards over the requisite service period of the award or until an employee’s eligible retirement date, if earlier.

Earnings per Share.  Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average shares outstanding during the reporting period. Diluted earnings per share is computed similarly to basic earnings per share except that the weighted average shares outstanding are increased to include additional shares from the assumed exercise of stock options and the assumed vesting of restricted share units, if dilutive. The number of additional shares is calculated by assuming that outstanding stock options were exercised, that outstanding restricted share units were released and that the proceeds from such activities were used to acquire shares of common stock at the average market price during the reporting period.

Reclassifications

Certain reclassifications of prior period presentations have been made to conform to the current period presentation.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements – New Developments

In May 2014 (amended January 2017), the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers,” (Topic 606) which provides a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers and eliminates existing industry guidance, including revenue recognition guidance specific to the gaming industry. The FASB has also recently issued several amendments to the standard, including narrow-scope improvements and practical expedients (ASU 2016-12) and clarification on accounting for and identifying performance obligations (ASU 2016-10). The core principle of the revenue model indicates that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitledreceived in exchange for those goods or services. The standard is designed to create greater comparabilityparticipation rights in a potential insurance recovery, (ii) proceeds received for financial statement users across industries and jurisdictions and also requires enhanced disclosures. The guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017. While early adoption is permitted for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016, we adopted this standard effective January 1, 2018, and elected to apply the full retrospective adoption method.


The adoptiontermination of the Caesars Dubai management agreement, (iii) insurance proceeds received in excess of the respective carrying value of damaged assets associated with the Lake Charles property, (iv) costs related to non-cash losses on the write down and disposal of assets, professional services for transaction and integration costs, various contract exit or termination costs, and pre-opening costs in connection with new standard on January 1, 2018, principally affects the presentation of promotional allowancestemporary facility openings and how the Company measures the liability(v) non-cash changes in equity method investments.

Capital Expenditures, Net - By Segment
Years Ended December 31,
(In millions)202320222021
Las Vegas$257 $165 $85 
Regional839 597 327 
Caesars Digital100 106 67 
Corporate and Other68 84 39 
Total (a)
$1,264 $952 $518 
____________________
(a)Includes capital expenditures associated with our customer loyalty programs. The current presentationdiscontinued operations, where applicable.
Total Assets - By Segment
December 31,
(In millions)20232022
Las Vegas$24,230 $23,547 
Regional15,291 14,908 
Caesars Digital1,095 1,200 
Managed and Branded
224 140 
Corporate and Other (a)
(7,474)(6,268)
Total$33,366 $33,527 
____________________
(a)Includes eliminations of gross revenues for complimentary goods and services providedtransactions among segments, to guests with a corresponding offsetting amount included in promotional allowances will be eliminated. This adjustment in presentation of promotional allowances will not have an impact onreconcile to the Company’s historically reported net operating revenues.

Liabilities associated with our customer loyalty programs are no longer valued at cost; rather a deferred revenue model is used to account for the classification and timingconsolidated results.

Table of revenue to be recognized related to the redemption of loyalty program liabilities by the customer. Points earned under the Company’s loyalty programs are deemed to be separate performance obligations, and recorded as a reduction of casino revenues when earned at the retail value of such benefits owed to the customer and recognized as departmental revenue based on where such points are redeemed, upon fulfillment of the performance obligation. Upon adoption, the Company’s change in liability associated with the customer loyalty programs will not be significant. Accordingly, we expect the cumulative effect adjustment to our retained earnings upon adoption will not be significant.

Subsequent to the adoption of Topic 606, food and beverage, lodging and other services furnished to our guests on a complimentary basis will be measured at the respective estimated standalone selling prices and included as revenues within food and beverage, lodging, and retail, entertainment and other, which will result in a corresponding decrease in gaming revenues. The costs of providing such complimentary goods and services will be included as expenses within food and beverage, lodging, and retail, entertainment and other, which will result in a decrease in casino expenses.

Additionally, as a result of the adoption of the new standard, certain adjustments and other reclassifications to and between revenue categories and to and between expense categories were required; however, the amounts associated with such adjustments will not have a significant impact on the Company’s previously reported operating income or net income.

In January 2017, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update ASU No. 2017-04, “Intangibles – Goodwill and Other: Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment.” This amended guidance is intended to simplify how an entity is required to test goodwill for impairment by eliminating Step 2 from the goodwill impairment test. Step 2 measures goodwill impairment loss by comparing the implied fair value of a reporting unit’s goodwill with the carrying amount of goodwill. Under the amended guidance, an entity should perform its annual, or interim, goodwill impairment test by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount. The elimination of Step 2 from the goodwill impairment test should reduce the cost and complexity of evaluating goodwill for impairment. Amendments should be applied on a prospective basis disclosing the nature of and reason for the change in accounting principle upon transition. Disclosure should be provided in the first annual period and in the interim period in which the entity initially adopts the amendments. Updated amendments are effective for the interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2019, and early adoption is permitted. We adopted this guidance effective October 1, 2017, and, in conjunction with the Company’s annual impairment assessment, recorded a $34.9 million goodwill impairment charge in 2017.

In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-01, “Business Combinations – Clarifying the Definition of a Business.” This amendment is intended to clarify the definition of a business with the objective of adding guidance to assist entities with evaluating whether transactions should be accounted for as acquisition (or disposals) of assets or businesses. Amendments in this update provide a more robust framework to use in determining when a set of assets and activities is a business and to provide more consistency in applying the guidance, reduce the costs of application, and make the definition of a business more operable. The amendments are effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is allowed as follows: (1) transactions for which acquisition date occurs before the issuance date or effective date of the amendments, only when the transaction has not been reported in financial statements that have been issued or made available for issuance and (2) transactions in which a subsidiary is deconsolidated or a group of assets is derecognized that occur before the issuance date or effective date of the amendments, only when the transaction has not been reported in financial statements that have been issued or made available for issuance. We currently anticipate adopting this accounting standard during the first quarter of 2018, and the adoption will result in future acquisitions which do not involve substantive processes being accounted for as asset acquisitions.

ContentsIn November 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-18, “Statement of Cash Flows – Restricted Cash.” This guidance requires that a statement of cash flows explain the change during the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, and amounts generally described as restricted cash and cash equivalents. The amendments in this update are effective for the interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. We adopted this standard effective January 1, 2018, which will impact the presentation of the Statement of Cash Flows as well as require additional footnote disclosure to reconcile the balance sheet to the revised cash flow presentation.


In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-15, “Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments.” This new guidance is intended to reduce diversity in practice in how certain cash receipts and payments are classified in the statement of cash flows, including debt prepayment or extinguishment costs, the settlement of contingent liabilities arising from a business combination, proceeds from insurance settlements, and distributions from certain equity method investees. The guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and early adoption is permitted. The guidance requires application using a retrospective transition method. We adopted this standard effective January 1, 2018, which should not have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements.

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, “Accounting for Credit Losses,” which amends the guidance on the impairment of financial instruments. This update adds an impairment model (known as the current expected credit losses model) that is based on expected losses rather than incurred losses. Under the new guidance, an entity recognizes, as an allowance, its estimate of expected credit losses. The effective date for this update is for the annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2019 and early adoption is permitted beginning after December 15, 2018. We are currently evaluating the impact of adopting this guidance on our consolidated financial statements.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02 “Leases” which addresses the recognition and measurement of leases. Under the new guidance, for all leases (with the exception of short-term leases), at the commencement date, lessees will be required to recognize a lease liability, which is a lessee’s obligation to make lease payments arising from a lease, measured on a discounted basis, and a right-of-use (“ROU”) asset, which is an asset that represents the lessee’s right to use, or control the use of, a specified asset for the lease term. Under the new guidance, lessor accounting is largely unchanged. Further, the new lease guidance simplifies the accounting for sale and leaseback transactions primarily because lessees must recognize lease assets and liabilities, which no longer provides a source for off balance sheet financing. The effective date for this update is for the annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2018 with early adoption permitted. Lessees and lessors must apply a modified retrospective transition approach for leases existing at, or entered into after, the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the consolidated financial statements.

Currently, we do not have any material capital leases or any material operating leases where we are the lessor. Our operating leases, primarily relating to certain ground leases and slot machines or VLTs, will be recorded on the balance sheet as an ROU asset with a corresponding lease liability, which will be amortized using the effective interest rate method as payments are made. The ROU asset will be depreciated on a straight-line basis and recognized as lease expense. The qualitative and quantitative effects of adoption of ASU 2016-02 are still being analyzed, and we are in the process of evaluating the full effect the new guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements including any new considerations with respect to the Isle Acquisition.

Note 3. Isle Acquisition and Reno Acquisition and Preliminary Purchase Accounting

Preliminary Purchase Price Accounting – Isle of Capri

On May 1, 2017, the Company completed its acquisition of Isle. The purchase consideration and allocation are still considered preliminary pending management’s final assessment of fair values. The total purchase consideration in the Isle Acquisition was determined with reference to the fair value on the date of the Merger Agreement as follows:

Purchase consideration calculation (dollars in thousands, except shares and stock price)

 

Shares

 

 

Per share

 

 

 

 

Cash paid for outstanding Isle common stock (1)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

 

552,050

 

Shares of ERI common stock issued for Isle common stock (2)

 

 

 

28,468,182

 

 

$

 

19.12

 

 

 

 

544,312

 

Cash paid by ERI to retire Isle's long-term debt (3)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

828,000

 

Shares of ERI common stock for Isle equity awards (4)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10,383

 

Purchase consideration

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

 

1,934,745

 

(1)

The cash component of the consideration represents 58% of the aggregate consideration paid in the Isle Acquisition. The Merger Agreement provided that Isle stockholders could elect to exchange each share of Isle common stock for either $23.00 in cash or 1.638 shares of ERI common stock, subject to proration such that the outstanding shares of Isle common stock will be exchanged for aggregate consideration comprised of 58% cash and 42% ERI common stock. See discussion of Stock Consideration component in note (2) below.


108

(2)

The Stock Consideration component of the consideration represents 42% of the aggregate consideration paid in the Isle Acquisition. The Merger Agreement provided that 58% of the aggregate consideration would be paid by ERI in cash, as described in note (1) above. The remaining 42% of the aggregate consideration was paid in shares of ERI common stock. The total Stock Consideration and per share consideration above were based on the ERI stock price on April 28, 2017 (the last business day prior to Isle Acquisition Date) which was $19.12 per share.



(3)

In addition to the cash paid to retire the principal amounts outstanding of Isle’s long-term debt, ERI paid $26.6 million in premiums and interest.

(4)

This amount represents consideration paid for the replacement of Isle’s outstanding equity awards. As discussed in Note 1, Isle’s outstanding equity awards were replaced by ERI equity awards with similar terms. A portion of the fair value of ERI awards issued represents consideration transferred, while a portion represents compensation expense based on the vesting terms of the equity awards.

The following table summarizes the preliminary purchase accounting of the purchase consideration to the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the Isle Acquisition as of the Isle Acquisition Date, with the excess recorded as goodwill. The fair values were based on management’s analysis, including preliminary work performed by third-party valuation specialists. The following table summarizes our preliminary purchase price accounting of the acquired assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2017 (dollars in thousands):

Current and other assets, net

$

135,925

Property and equipment

908,816

Goodwill

715,196

Intangible assets (i)

517,470

Other noncurrent assets

15,082

Total assets

2,292,489

Current liabilities

(144,306

)

Deferred income taxes (ii)

(186,772

)

Other noncurrent liabilities

(26,666

)

Total liabilities

(357,744

)

Net assets acquired

$

1,934,745

(i)

Intangible assets consist of gaming licenses, trade names, and player relationships.

(ii)

Deferred tax liabilities were derived based on fair value adjustments for property and equipment and identified intangibles.

During the three months ended December 31, 2017, the Company adjusted the Isle of Capri preliminary purchase price accounting, as disclosed in the June 30, 2017 and September 30, 2017 Form 10-Q filings, to their updated values. Except for the reclassification of the Lake Charles assets and liabilities, which were previously classified as assets held for sale as of the Isle Acquisition Date and reversed as a result of the sale termination, the updated purchase price accounting resulted in minimal changes and refinements by management.

Valuation methodologies under both a market and income approach used for the identifiable net assets acquired in the Isle Acquisition make use of Level 1 and Level 3 inputs including quoted prices in active markets and discounted cash flows using current interest rates and are provisional pending development of a final valuation.

Trade receivables and payables, inventory and other current and noncurrent assets and liabilities were valued at the existing carrying values as they represented the estimated fair value of those items at the Isle Acquisition Date, based on management’s judgement and estimates.


The fair value of land was determined using the market approach, which arrives at an indication of value by comparing the site being valued to sites that have been recently acquired in arm’s-length transactions. The market data is then adjusted for any significant differences, to the extent known, between the identified comparable sites and the site being valued. Building and site improvements were valued using the cost approach using a direct cost model built on estimates of replacement cost. With respect to personal property components of the assets, personal property assets with an active and identifiable secondary market such as riverboats, gaming equipment, computer equipment and vehicles were valued using the market approach. Other personal property assets such as furniture, fixtures, computer software, and restaurant equipment were valued using the cost approach which is based on replacement or reproduction costs of the asset.

The cost approach is an estimation of fair value developed by computing the current cost of replacing a property and subtracting any depreciation resulting from one or more of the following factors: physical deterioration, functional obsolescence, and/or economic obsolescence. The income approach incorporates all tangible and intangible property and served as a ceiling for the fair values of the acquired assets of the ongoing business enterprise, while still taking into account the premise of highest and best use. In the instance where the business enterprise value developed via the income approach was exceeded by the initial fair values of the underlying assets, an adjustment to reflect economic obsolescence was made to the tangible assets on a pro rata basis to reflect the contributory value of each individual asset to the enterprise as a whole.

The fair value of the gaming licenses was determined using the excess earnings or replacement cost methodology based on the respective states’ legislation. The excess earnings methodology, which is an income approach methodology that allocates the projected cash flows of the business to the gaming license intangible assets less charges for the use of other identifiable assets of Isle including working capital, fixed assets and other intangible assets. This methodology was considered appropriate as the gaming licenses are the primary asset of Isle and the licenses are linked to each respective facility. Under the respective state’s gaming legislation, the property specific licenses can only be acquired if a theoretical buyer were to acquire each existing facility. The existing licenses could not be acquired and used for a different facility. The properties’ estimated future cash flows were the primary assumption in the respective valuations. Cash flow estimates included net gaming revenue, gaming operating expenses, general and administrative expenses, and tax expense. The replacement cost methodology is a cost approach methodology based on replacement or reproduction cost of the gaming license as an indicator of fair value.

Trademarks are valued using the relief from royalty method, which presumes that without ownership of such trademarks, ERI would have to make a stream of payments to a brand or franchise owner in return for the right to use their name. By virtue of this asset, ERI avoids any such payments and record the related intangible value of ERI’s ownership of the brand name. The primary assumptions in the valuation included revenue, pre-tax royalty rate, and tax expense.

ERI has assigned an indefinite useful life to the gaming licenses, in accordance with its review of the applicable guidance of ASC Topic 350, “Intangibles-Goodwill and Other” (“ASC 350”). The standard required ERI to consider, among other things, the expected use of the asset, the expected useful life of other related asset or asset group, any legal, regulatory, or contractual provisions that may limit the useful life, ERI’s own historical experience in renewing similar arrangements, the effects of obsolescence, demand and other economic factors, and the maintenance expenditures required to obtain the expected cash flows. In that analysis, ERI determined that no legal, regulatory, contractual, competitive, economic or other factors limit the useful lives of these intangible assets. The acquired Isle properties currently have licenses in Louisiana, Pennsylvania, Iowa, Missouri, Mississippi, Florida and Colorado. The renewal of each state’s gaming license depends on a number of factors, including payment of certain fees and taxes, providing certain information to the state’s gaming regulator, and meeting certain inspection requirements. However, ERI’s historical experience has not indicated, nor does ERI expect, any limitations regarding its ability to continue to renew each license. No other competitive, contractual, or economic factor limits the useful lives of these assets. Accordingly, ERI has preliminarily concluded that the useful lives of these licenses are indefinite.

For the period from the Isle Acquisition Date through December 31, 2017, Isle and its subsidiaries generated net revenue of $599.6 million and net income of $102.6 million.


Final Purchase Price Accounting – Silver Legacy and Circus Reno

On November 24, 2015, the Company acquired all of the assets and properties of Circus Reno and the 50% membership interest in the Silver Legacy Joint Venture owned by Galleon, Inc. The total purchase consideration was $223.6 million as presented in the following table.

Purchase consideration calculation (dollars in thousands)

 

Silver Legacy

 

 

Circus Reno

 

 

Total

 

Cash consideration paid by ERI for MGM’s 50%

   equity interest and MGM’s member note

 

$

 

56,500

 

 

$

 

16,000

 

 

$

 

72,500

 

Fair value of ERI’s pre-existing 50% equity interest

 

 

 

56,500

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

56,500

 

Settlement of Silver Legacy’s long-term debt (1)

 

 

 

87,854

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

87,854

 

Prepayment penalty (1)

 

 

 

1,831

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,831

 

Closing Silver Legacy and Circus Reno net working

   capital (2)

 

 

 

6,124

 

 

 

 

2,111

 

 

 

 

8,235

 

Reverse member note (3)

 

 

 

(6,107

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(6,107

)

Deferred tax liability

 

 

 

2,769

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2,769

 

Purchase consideration

 

$

 

205,471

 

 

$

 

18,111

 

 

$

 

223,582

 

(1)

Represents $5.0 million of short-term debt, $75.5 million of long-term debt, the remaining 50% of the $11.5 million of member notes (net of discount), and accrued interest of $1.6 million. Additionally, the Company paid a $1.8 million prepayment penalty as a result of the early payoff of the Silver Legacy long-term debt.

(2)

Per the Purchase and Sale Agreement, the purchase price was $72.5 million plus the Final Closing Net Working Capital (as defined in the Purchase and Sale Agreement). As agreed by both parties, the final working capital adjustment was $8.2 million.

(3)

Represents 50% of the $11.5 million of member notes (net of discount) due to ERI, and related accrued interest. This amount was settled in conjunction with the final, agreed-upon purchase consideration.

The transaction was accounted for using the acquisition method. No goodwill resulted from the recording of this transaction.

The following table summarizes the allocation of the final purchase consideration to the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the Circus Reno/Silver Legacy Purchase. The fair values were based on management’s analysis, including work performed by third‑party valuation specialists. The following table summarizes the final purchase price accounting of the acquired assets and assumed liabilities (dollars in thousands):

 

 

Silver Legacy

 

 

Circus Reno

 

 

Total

 

Current and other assets, net

 

$

 

21,625

 

 

$

 

2,115

 

 

$

 

23,740

 

Property and equipment

 

 

 

168,037

 

 

 

 

14,996

 

 

 

 

183,033

 

Intangible assets (1)

 

 

 

5,000

 

 

 

 

1,000

 

 

 

 

6,000

 

Other noncurrent assets

 

 

 

10,809

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10,809

 

Net assets acquired

 

$

 

205,471

 

 

$

 

18,111

 

 

$

 

223,582

 

(1)

Intangible assets consist of trade names which are non-amortizable and loyalty programs which were amortized over one year.

Valuation methodologies under both a market and income approach used for the identifiable net assets acquired in the Reno Acquisition make use of Level 1 and Level 3 inputs including quoted prices in active markets and discounted cash flows using current interest rates.

Trade receivables and payables, inventory as well as other current and noncurrent assets and liabilities were valued at the existing carrying values as they represented the fair value of those items at the Reno Acquisition Date, based on management’s judgments and estimates.

The fair value estimate of property and equipment utilized a combination of the cost and market approaches, depending on the characteristics of the asset classification. The fair value of land was determined using the market approach, which considers sales of comparable assets and applies compensating factors for any differences specific to the particular assets.


With respect to personal property components of the assets (gaming equipment, furniture, fixtures and equipment, computers, and vehicles) the cost approach was used, which is based on replacement or reproduction costs of the asset. Building and site improvements were valued using the cost approach using a direct cost model built on estimates of replacement cost.

Trade names were valued using the relief‑from‑royalty method. The loyalty program was valued using a comparative business valuation method. Management has assigned trade names an indefinite useful life, in accordance with its review of applicable guidance of ASC Topic No. 350, Intangibles—Goodwill and Other. The standard required management to consider, among other things, the expected use of the asset, the expected useful life of other related asset or asset group, any legal, regulatory, or contractual provisions that may limit the useful life, the Company’s own historical experience in renewing similar arrangements, the effects of obsolescence, demand and other economic factors, and the maintenance expenditures required to obtain the expected cash flows. In that analysis, management determined that no legal, regulatory, contractual, competitive, economic or other factors limit the useful lives of these intangible assets. The loyalty program is being amortized on a straight‑line basis over a one year useful life.

For the period from the Reno Acquisition Date through December 31, 2015, the Silver Legacy generated net revenue of $13.5 million and a net loss of $0.3 million. Circus Reno generated net revenues of $8.3 million and net income of $1.4 million during the same period.

Unaudited Pro Forma Information – Isle Acquisition

The following unaudited pro forma information presents the results of operations of the Company for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, as if the Isle Acquisition had both occurred on January 1, 2016 (in thousands except per share data).

 

 

For the years ended December 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

Net revenues

 

$

 

1,803,522

 

 

$

 

1,832,601

 

Net income

 

 

 

173,587

 

 

 

 

28,413

 

These pro forma results do not necessarily represent the results of operations that would have been achieved if the acquisition had taken place on January 1, 2016, nor are they indicative of the results of operations for future periods. The pro forma amounts include the historical operating results of the Company and Isle prior to the Isle Acquisition with adjustments directly attributable to the Isle Acquisition.

Note 4. Accounts Receivable

Components of accounts receivable, net are as follows (in thousands):

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

Accounts receivable

 

$

 

47,017

 

 

$

 

15,915

 

Allowance for doubtful accounts

 

 

 

(1,220

)

 

 

 

(1,221

)

Total

 

$

 

45,797

 

 

$

 

14,694

 

Reserve for Uncollectible Accounts Receivable

We reserve an estimated amount for receivables that may not be collected. Methodologies for estimating bad debt reserves range from specific reserves to various percentages applied to aged receivables. Historical collection rates are considered, as are customer relationships, in determining specific reserves. As with many estimates, management must make judgments about potential actions by third parties in establishing and evaluating our reserves for bad debts. In 2017 and 2016, the Company’s bad debt expense totaled $0.5 million and $0.2 million, respectively.


Note 5. Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliates

Hotel Partnership.  The Company holds a 42.1% variable interest in a partnership with other investors that developed a new 118-room Hampton Inn & Suites hotel at Scioto Downs that opened in March 2017. Pursuant to the terms of the partnership agreement, the Company contributed $1.0 million of cash and 2.4 acres of a leasehold immediately adjacent to The Brew Brothers microbrewery and restaurant at Scioto Downs. The partnership constructed the hotel at a cost of $16.0 million and other investor members operate the hotel. In November 2017, the Company contributed $0.6 million to the partnership for its proportionate share of additional construction costs pursuant to the partnership agreement. At December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company’s investment in the partnership was $1.5 million and $1.3 million, respectively, recorded in “Other Assets, Net” in the consolidated balance sheets, representing the Company’s maximum loss exposure. As of December 31, 2017, the Company’s receivable from the partnership totaled $0.2 million and is reflected on the accompanying balance sheet under “Due from Affiliates.”

Silver Legacy Joint Venture.  Effective March 1, 1994, Eldorado Limited Liability Company (“ELLC”) and Galleon, Inc. entered into the Silver Legacy Joint Venture pursuant to a joint venture agreement (the “Joint Venture Agreement”) to develop the Silver Legacy.

On the Reno Acquisition Date, Eldorado Resorts LLC consummated the acquisition of the other 50% membership interest in the Silver Legacy Joint Venture owned by Galleon, Inc. pursuant to the Purchase Agreement. As a result of these transactions, ELLC became a wholly-owned subsidiary of ERI and Silver Legacy became an indirect wholly‑owned subsidiary of ERI. In conjunction with the Reno Acquisition, we recorded a $35.6 million gain related to the valuation of the pre-acquisition investment in the Silver Legacy Joint Venture.

Equity in income related to the Silver Legacy Joint Venture for the 2015 period prior to the Reno Acquisition Date amounted to $3.5 million.

Summarized information for the Company’s investmentItem 9.    Changes in and advances to the Silver Legacy Joint Venture for 2015 prior to its acquisition by the Company is as follows (in thousands):

Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

 

 

Period from,

January 1, 2015

through November 23,

 

 

 

2015

 

Beginning balance

 

$

14,009

 

Equity in income of unconsolidated affiliate

 

 

3,460

 

Valuation of unconsolidated affiliate

 

 

35,582

 

Net acquisition of non-controlling interest

 

 

3,449

 

Ending balance

 

$

56,500

 

None.

Summarized results of operations for the Silver Legacy Joint Venture are as follows (in thousands):

 

 

Period from,

January 1, 2015

through November 23,

 

 

 

2015

 

Net revenues

 

$

117,029

 

Operating expenses

 

 

(90,608

)

Operating income

 

 

26,421

 

Other expense

 

 

(19,226

)

Net income

 

$

7,195

 


Note 6. Property

Item 9A.    Controls and Equipment

PropertyProcedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and equipment consistedProcedures
We have established and maintain disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that we file under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), is recorded, processed, summarized, evaluated and reported within the time periods specified in the rules and forms of the following (in thousands):

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

Land and improvements

 

$

 

284,374

 

 

$

 

54,604

 

Buildings and other leasehold improvements

 

 

 

1,187,642

 

 

 

 

628,390

 

Riverboat

 

 

 

61,091

 

 

 

 

40,148

 

Furniture, fixtures and equipment

 

 

 

420,399

 

 

 

 

251,504

 

Furniture, fixtures and equipment held under capital

   leases (Note 16)

 

 

 

870

 

 

 

 

3,571

 

Construction in progress

 

 

 

14,451

 

 

 

 

6,985

 

 

 

 

 

1,968,827

 

 

 

 

985,202

 

Less—Accumulated depreciation and amortization

 

 

 

(466,010

)

 

 

 

(372,860

)

Property and equipment, net

 

$

 

1,502,817

 

 

$

 

612,342

 

Substantially all propertySEC, and equipmentthat such information is pledgedaccumulated and communicated to management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as collateralappropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

In designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives, and management necessarily is required to apply its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures.
Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) promulgated under our long‑term debt (see Note 9).

Depreciation expense, including amortization expense on capital leases, was $100.9 million, $58.9 million and $51.0 million for the years endedExchange Act) as of December 31, 2017, 20162023. Based on these evaluations, our Chief Executive Officer and 2015, respectively. AtChief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures required by Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) were effective as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, accumulated depreciation and amortization includes $0.4 million and $2.9 million, respectively, related to assets acquired under capital leases.

Note 7. Other and Intangible Assets, net

Other and intangible assets, net, include the following amounts (in thousands):

2023, at a reasonable assurance level.

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

 

Useful Life

Goodwill

 

$

 

747,106

 

 

$

 

66,826

 

 

Indefinite

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gaming licenses

 

$

 

877,174

 

 

$

 

482,074

 

 

Indefinite

Trade names

 

 

 

108,250

 

 

 

 

3,100

 

 

Indefinite

Trade names

 

 

 

6,700

 

 

 

 

6,700

 

 

1 - 3.5 years

Loyalty programs

 

 

 

21,820

 

 

 

 

7,700

 

 

1 - 3 years

Subtotal

 

 

 

1,013,944

 

 

 

 

499,574

 

 

 

Accumulated amortization trade names

 

 

 

(6,290

)

 

 

 

(4,376

)

 

 

Accumulated amortization loyalty programs

 

 

 

(10,838

)

 

 

 

(7,700

)

 

 

Total gaming licenses and other intangible assets

 

$

 

996,816

 

 

$

 

487,498

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Non-operating real property

 

$

 

18,069

 

 

$

 

14,219

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unamortized debt issuance costs - New Revolving

   Credit Facility

 

$

 

8,616

 

 

$

 

 

 

 

Restricted cash

 

 

 

9,886

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other

 

 

 

12,130

 

 

 

 

11,406

 

 

 

Total other assets, net

 

$

 

30,632

 

 

$

 

11,406

 

 

 

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

Goodwill is the excess

Management of the purchase priceCompany is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) or 15d-15(f) promulgated under the Exchange Act. This system is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of acquiring MTR Gamingfinancial reporting and Islethe preparation of consolidated financial statements for external purposes in accordance with US GAAP.
Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, evaluated and assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over the fair market valuefinancial reporting as of the net assets acquired.

Gaming licenses represent intangible assets acquired fromend of the purchase of a gaming entity located in a gaming jurisdiction where competition is limited, such as when only a limited number of gaming operators are allowed to operateperiod covered by this Form 10-K Annual Report based upon the framework set forth in the jurisdiction. These gaming license rights are not subject to amortization asInternal Control-Integrated Framework issued in 2013 by the Company has determined that they have indefinite useful lives.


During the fourth quarterCommittee of 2017, the Company performed its annual impairment tests of its intangible assets by reviewing each of its reporting units. The goodwill analysisSponsoring Organization of the Company’s Lake Charles, LulaTreadway Commission. Based on their evaluation and Vicksburgassessment, they concluded that, as of December 31, 2023, our internal control over financial reporting units indicated the fair valuewas effective based on those criteria.

Deloitte & Touche LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, has issued an attestation report on our internal control over financial reporting as of Lake Charles’ and Vicksburg’s goodwill and all three reporting units’ trade namesDecember 31, 2023, which report follows below.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
As of December 31, 2023, there were less than their carrying values.

The Company adopted the new guidance under ASU No. 2017-04, which eliminated Step 2 from the impairment test. As a result of its analysis, the Company recorded a $38.0 million impairment charge in 2017 comprised of the following: $1.5 million, $0.3 million and $1.3 million related to trade names for Lake Charles, Lula and Vicksburg, respectively, and $11.7 million and $23.2 million related to goodwill for Lake Charles and Vicksburg, respectively.

The Company’s goodwill impairment charges in 2017 were primarily the result of expected decreases in future cash flows as a result of unfavorable economic conditions and the impact ofno significant changes in our competitors. The non-recurring fair values usedinternal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

Table of Contents
109


REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the stockholders and the Board of Directors of Caesars Entertainment, Inc.
Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Caesars Entertainment, Inc., and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2023, based on criteria established in our determinationInternal Control — Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the goodwill impairment charges considered Level 2 and 3 inputs, includingTreadway Commission (“COSO”). In our opinion, the reviewCompany maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of comparable activitiesDecember 31, 2023, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013) issued by COSO.
We have also audited, in accordance with the marketplace, discounted cash flows and market based multiple valuation methods.

The Company’s trade name impairment charges in 2017 were primarily the result of expected decreases in future net revenues. The non-recurring fair values used in our determinationstandards of the trade name impairment charges considered Level 2Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”), the consolidated financial statements as of and 3 inputs, including use of the relief‑from‑royalty method.

Amortization expense with respect to trade names and the loyalty program for the year ended December 31, 20172023, of the Company and 2016 amounted to $5.1 millionour report dated February 20, 2024, expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements.

Basis for Opinion
The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and $4.5 million, respectively, which isfor its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in depreciationthe accompanying Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and amortization in the consolidated statements of income. Such amortization expense is expectedare required to be $5.0 million, $4.6 million, and $1.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2019 and 2020, respectively.  

Note 8. Accrued Other Liabilities

Accrued other liabilities consisted of the following (in thousands):

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

Accrued general liability claims

 

$

 

13,816

 

 

$

 

3,228

 

Unclaimed chips

 

 

 

4,743

 

 

 

 

1,946

 

Accrued purses and track related liabilities

 

 

 

3,256

 

 

 

 

1,007

 

Jackpot progressives and other accrued gaming

   liabilities

 

 

 

18,724

 

 

 

 

6,678

 

Player's point liabilities

 

 

 

7,061

 

 

 

 

2,989

 

Construction payables

 

 

 

5,276

 

 

 

 

4,005

 

Other

 

 

 

8,470

 

 

 

 

7,795

 

Total accrued other liabilities

 

$

 

61,346

 

 

$

 

27,648

 


Note 9. Long‑Term Debt and Other Long-Term Liabilities

Long-term debt consisted of the following (in thousands):

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

New Term Loan

 

$

 

956,750

 

 

$

 

 

Less: Unamortized discount and debt issuance costs

 

 

 

(18,748

)

 

 

 

 

Net

 

 

 

938,002

 

 

 

 

 

6% Senior Notes

 

 

 

875,000

 

 

 

 

 

Plus: Unamortized debt premium

 

 

 

26,605

 

 

 

 

 

Less: Unamortized debt issuance costs

 

 

 

(20,716

)

 

 

 

 

Net

 

 

 

880,889

 

 

 

 

 

7% Senior Notes

 

 

 

375,000

 

 

 

 

375,000

 

Less: Unamortized discount and debt issuance costs

 

 

 

(7,146

)

 

 

 

(8,141

)

Net

 

 

 

367,854

 

 

 

 

366,859

 

Term Loan

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

418,625

 

Less: Unamortized discount and debt issuance costs

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(12,578

)

Net

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

406,047

 

Prior Revolving Credit Facility

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

29,000

 

Less: Unamortized debt issuance costs

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(2,023

)

Net

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

26,977

 

Capital leases

 

 

 

917

 

 

 

 

543

 

Long-term notes payable

 

 

 

2,531

 

 

 

 

 

Less: Current portion

 

 

 

(615

)

 

 

 

(4,545

)

Total long-term debt

 

$

 

2,189,578

 

 

$

 

795,881

 

Maturities of the principal amount of the Company’s long-term debt as of December 31, 2017 are as follows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Years ending December 31,

 

(In thousands)

 

2018

 

$

 

615

 

2019

 

 

 

425

 

2020

 

 

 

172

 

2021

 

 

 

116

 

2022

 

 

 

126

 

Thereafter

 

 

 

2,208,744

 

 

 

$

 

2,210,198

 

In connection with the Isle Acquisition, the Company completed a debt financing transaction comprised of: (a) a senior secured credit facility in an aggregate principal amount of $1.75 billion with a (i) term loan facility of $1.45 billion and (ii) revolving credit facility of $300.0 million and (b) $375.0 million of 6% senior unsecured notes. The proceeds of such borrowings were used to pay the cash portion of the consideration payable in the Isle Merger, refinance all of Isle’s existing credit facilities, redeem or otherwise repurchase all of Isle’s and senior and senior subordinated notes, refinance the Company’s existing credit facility and pay transaction fees and expenses related to the foregoing.

On September 13, 2017, the Company issued an additional $500.0 million in aggregate principal amount of its 6% Senior Notes (as defined below) at an issue price equal to 105.5% of the principal amount. The 6% Senior Notes were issued as additional notes under the 6% Senior Notes Indenture dated March 29, 2017 (as defined below), as supplemented by the supplemental indenture dated as of May 1, 2017 between the Company, the guarantors party thereto and U.S. Bank National Association, pursuant to which the Company previously issued $375.0 million aggregate principal amount of 6% Senior Notes. The additional 6% Senior Notes formed part of a single class of securities together with the initial 6% Senior Notes for all purposes under the 6% Senior Notes Indenture, including waivers, amendments, redemptions and offers to purchase.

The Company used the proceeds of the offering to repay all of the outstanding borrowings under the New Revolving Credit Facility (as defined below) totaling $78.0 million and used the remainder to repay outstanding borrowings totaling $444.5 million under the New Term Loan plus related accrued interest.


Amortization of the debt issuance costs and the discount and premium associated with our indebtedness totaled $6.3 million and $3.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Amortization of debt issuance costs is computed using the effective interest method and is included in interest expense. Amortization expenseindependent with respect to deferred financing costs on the Company’s senior secured notes amounted to $0.5 million for year ended December 31, 2015.

InCompany in accordance with ASC Topic 470-50, “Debt Modificationsthe U.S. federal securities laws and Extinguishments” (“ASC 470-50”), the Company recognized a loss totaling $27.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 as a result of the refinance of the Prior Credit Facility (as defined below) in May 2017. The Company also recognized a loss totaling $11.1 million as a result of the issuance of additional 6% Senior Notes in September 2017 resulting in a combined total loss of $38.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2017.

Scheduled maturities of long‑term debt are $375.0 million in 2023, $956.8 million in 2024, and $875.0 million in 2025.

The Company is a holding company with no independent assets or operations. Our 6% Senior Notes and 7% Senior Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed, on a joint and several basis, by the subsidiary guarantors. As of December 31, 2017, there were no significant restrictions on the ability of our subsidiaries to distribute cash to us or our guarantor subsidiaries.

Other Long-Term Liabilities

In conjunction with the Isle Acquisition, the Company acquired the existing lease and management agreements at its Nemacolin location. Under the terms of the agreements, Nemacolin Woodland Resort (“Resort”) provided land, land improvements and a building for the casino property. In accordance with ASC 840, the Company was deemed, for accounting purposes only, to be the owner of these assets provided by the Resort during the construction and casino operating periods due to the Company’s continuing involvement. Therefore, the transaction was accounted for using the direct financing method. As of December 31, 2017, the Company recorded property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation, of $4.2 million, and a liability of $4.5 million in other long-term liabilities related to the agreement.

In conjunction with the Isle Acquisition, the Company acquired the existing lease and management agreements at its Bettendorf location. Under the terms of the agreements with the City of Bettendorf, Iowa, the Company leases, manages, and provides financial and operating support for the convention center (Quad-Cities Waterfront Convention Center). In accordance with ASC 840, the Company was deemed, for accounting purposes only, to be the owner of the convention center due to the Company’s continuing involvement. Therefore, the transaction was accounted for using the direct financing method. As of December 31, 2017, the Company recorded property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation, of $11.9 million, and a liability of $12.5 million in other long-term liabilities related to the agreement.  

Senior Notes

7.0% Senior Notes

On July 23, 2015, the Company issued at par $375.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 7.0% senior notes due 2023 (“7% Senior Notes”) pursuant to the Indenture, dated as of July 23, 2015 (the “7% Senior Notes Indenture”), between the Company and U.S. Bank, National Association, as Trustee. The 7% Senior Notes will mature on August 1, 2023, with interest payable semi-annually in arrears on February 1 and August 1 of each year.

On or after August 1, 2018, the Company may redeem all or a portion of the Senior Notes upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice, at the redemption prices (expressed as percentages of the principal amount) set forth below plus accrued and unpaid interest and additional interest, if any, on the Senior Notes redeemed, to the applicable redemption date, if redeemed during the twelve month period beginning on August 1 of the years indicated below:

Year

 

Percentage

 

 

2018

 

 

105.250

 

%

2019

 

 

103.500

 

%

2020

 

 

101.750

 

%

2021 and thereafter

 

 

100.000

 

%


Prior to August 1, 2018, the Company may redeem all or a portion of the 7% Senior Notes at a price equal to 100% of the 7% Senior Notes redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date, plus a “make-whole” premium. At any time prior to August 1, 2018, the Company is also entitled to redeem up to 35% of the original aggregate principal amount of the 7% Senior Notes with proceeds of certain equity financings at a redemption price equal to 107% of the principal amount of the 7% Senior Notes redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest. If the Company experiences certain change of control events (as defined in the 7% Senior Notes Indenture), it must offer to repurchase the 7% Senior Notes at 101% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest to the applicable repurchase date. If the Company sells assets under certain circumstances and does not use the proceeds for specified purposes, the Company must offer to repurchase the 7% Senior Notes at 100% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest to the applicable repurchase dates.

The 7% Senior Notes are subject to redemption imposed by gaming lawsrules and regulations of applicable gaming regulatory authorities.

The 7% Senior Notes Indenture contains certain covenants limiting, among other things, the Company’s abilitySecurities and Exchange Commission and the ability of its subsidiaries (other than its unrestricted subsidiaries) to:

pay dividends or distributions or make certain other restricted payments or investments;

PCAOB.

incur or guarantee additional indebtedness or issue disqualified stock or create subordinated indebtedness that is not subordinated toWe conducted our audit in accordance with the 7% Senior Notes or the guaranteesstandards of the 7% Senior Notes;

create liens;

transferPCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and sell assets;

merge, consolidate, or sell, transfer or otherwise disposeperform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of all or substantially allinternal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of the Company’s assets;

enter into certain transactions with affiliates;

engage in lines of business other than the Company’s core business and related businesses; and

create restrictions on dividends or other payments by restricted subsidiaries.

These covenants are subject to a number of exceptions and qualifications as set forth in the 7% Senior Notes Indenture. The 7% Senior Notes Indenture also provides for customary events of default which, if any of them occurs, would permit or require the principal of and accrued interest on such 7% Senior Notes to be declared due and payable. As of December 31, 2017, the Company was in compliance with all of the covenants under the 7% Senior Notes Indenture relating to the 7% Senior Notes.

6.0% Senior Notes

On March 29, 2017, Eagle II Acquisition Company LLC (“Eagle II”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, issued $375.0 million aggregate principal amount of 6% Senior Notes due 2025 (the “6% Senior Notes”) pursuant to an indenture, dated as of March 29, 2017 (the “6% Senior Notes Indenture”), between Eagle II and U.S. Bank, National Association, as Trustee. The 6% Senior Notes will mature on April 1, 2025, with interest payable semi-annually in arrears on April 1 and October 1, commencing October 1, 2017. The proceeds of the offering, and additional funds in the amount of $1.9 million in respect of interest expected to be accrued on the 6% Senior Notes, were placed in escrow pending satisfaction of certain conditions, including consummation of the Isle Acquisition. In connection with the consummation of the Isle Acquisition on May 1, 2017, the escrowed funds were released and the Company assumed Eagle II’s obligations under the 6% Senior Notes and the 6% Senior Notes Indenture and certain of the Company’s subsidiaries (including Isle and certain of its subsidiaries) executed guarantees of the Company’s obligations under the 6% Senior Notes.


On September 13, 2017, the Company issued an additional $500.0 million principal amount of its 6% Senior Notes at an issue price equal to 105.5% of the principal amount of the 6% Senior Notes. The additional notes were issued pursuant to the 6% Senior Notes Indenture that governs the 6% Senior Notes. The Company used the proceeds of the offering to repay $78.0 million of outstanding borrowings under the revolving credit facility and used the remainder to repay $444.5 million outstanding borrowings under the term loan facility and related accrued interest.

On or after April 1, 2020, the Company may redeem all or a portion of the 6% Senior Notes upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice, at the redemption prices (expressed as percentages of the principal amount) set forth below plus accrued and unpaid interest and additional interest, if any, on the 6% Senior Notes redeemed, to the applicable redemption date, if redeemed during the 12-month period beginning on April 1 of the years indicated below:

Year

 

Percentage

 

 

2020

 

 

104.500

 

%

2021

 

 

103.000

 

%

2022

 

 

101.500

 

%

2023 and thereafter

 

 

100.000

 

%

Prior to April 1, 2020, the Company may redeem all or a portion of the 6% Senior Notes at a price equal to 100% of the 6% Senior Notes redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date, plus a make-whole premium. At any time prior to April 1, 2020, the Company is also entitled to redeem up to 35% of the original aggregate principal amount of the 6% Senior Notes with proceeds of certain equity financings at a redemption price equal to 106% of the principal amount of the 6% Senior Notes redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest. If the Company experiences certain change ofinternal control events (as defined in the 6% Senior Notes Indenture), it must offer to repurchase the 6% Senior Notes at 101% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest to the applicable repurchase date. If the Company sells assets under certain circumstances and does not use the proceeds for specified purposes, the Company must offer to repurchase the 6% Senior Notes at 100% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest to the applicable repurchase date.

The 6% Senior Notes are subject to redemption imposed by gaming laws and regulations of applicable gaming regulatory authorities.

The 6% Senior Notes Indenture contains certain covenants limiting, among other things, the Company’s ability and the ability of its subsidiaries (other than its unrestricted subsidiaries) to:

pay dividends or distributions or make certain other restricted payments or investments;

incur or guarantee additional indebtedness or issue disqualified stock or create subordinated indebtedness that is not subordinated to the 6% Senior Notes or the guarantees of the 6% Senior Notes;

create liens;

transfer and sell assets;

merge, consolidate, or sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of the Company’s assets;

enter into certain transactions with affiliates;

engage in lines of business other than the Company’s core business and related businesses; and

create restrictions on dividends or other payments by restricted subsidiaries.

These covenants are subject to a number of exceptions and qualifications as set forth in the 6% Senior Notes Indenture. The 6% Senior Notes Indenture also provides for customary events of default which, if any of them occurs, would permit or require the principal of and accrued interest on such 6% Senior Notes to be declared due and payable. As of December 31, 2017, the Company was in compliance with all of the covenants under the 6% Senior Notes Indenture relating to the 6% Senior Notes.


Refinancing of the Term Loan and Revolving Credit Facility

Credit Facility

On July 23, 2015, the Company entered into a new $425.0 million seven year term loan (the “Term Loan”) and a $150.0 million five year revolving credit facility (the “Prior Revolving Credit Facility” and, together with the Term Loan, the “Prior Credit Facility”).

The Term Loan bore interest at a rate per annum of, at the Company’s option, either LIBOR plus 3.25%, with a LIBOR floor of 1.0%, or a base rate plus 2.25%. Borrowings under the Prior Revolving Credit Facility bore interest at a rate per annum of, at the Company’s option, either LIBOR plus a spread ranging from 2.5% to 3.25% or a base rate plus a spread ranging from 1.5% to 2.25%, in each case with the spread determined based on the Company’s total leverage ratio. Additionally,assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the Company paidcircumstances. We believe that our audit provides a commitment fee onreasonable basis for our opinion.

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the unused portionreliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the Prior Revolving Credit Facility not being utilized in the amount of 0.50% per annum.

On May 1, 2017, allassets of the outstanding amounts under the Prior Credit Facility were repaidcompany; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with proceeds of borrowings under the New Credit Facilitygenerally accepted accounting principles, and the Prior Credit Facility was terminated.

New Credit Facility

On April 17, 2017, Eagle II entered into a new credit agreement bythat receipts and among Eagle II, as initial borrower, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, and the lenders party thereto dated as of April 17, 2017 (the “New Credit Facility”), consisting of a $1.45 billion term loan facility (the “New Term Loan Facility” or “New Term Loan”) and a $300.0 million revolving credit facility (the “New Revolving Credit Facility”), which was undrawn at closing. The proceedsexpenditures of the New Term Loan Facility,company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and additional funds in the amount of $4.5 million in respect of interest expected to be accrued on the New Term Loan Facility, were placed in escrow pending satisfaction of certain conditions, including consummationdirectors of the Isle Acquisition. In connection with the consummationcompany; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the Isle Acquisition on May 1, 2017, the escrowed funds were released and ERI assumed Eagle II’s obligations under the New Credit Facility and certain of ERI’s subsidiaries (including Isle and certain of its subsidiaries) executed guarantees of ERI’s obligations under the New Credit Facility.

As of December 31, 2017, the Company had $956.8 million outstanding on the New Term Loan. There were no borrowings outstanding under the New Revolving Credit Facility as of December 31, 2017. The Company had $291.6 million of available borrowing capacity, after consideration of $8.4 million in outstanding letters of credit, under its New Revolving Credit Facility as of December 31, 2017. At December 31, 2017, the weighted average interest rate on the New Term Loan was 3.6%, and the weighted average interest rate on the New Revolving Credit Facility was 4.0% based upon the weighted average interest rate of borrowings outstanding during 2017.

The Company applied the net proceeds of the New Term Loan Facility and borrowings under the New Revolving Credit Facility, together with the proceeds of the 6% Senior Notes and cash on hand, to (i) pay the cash portion of the consideration payable in the Isle Merger, (ii) refinance all of the debt outstanding under Isle’s existing credit facility, (iii) redeem or otherwise repurchase all of Isle’s outstanding senior and senior subordinated notes, (iv) refinance the Company’s Prior Credit Facility and (v) pay fees and costs associated with the foregoing.

The Companys obligations under the New Revolving Credit Facility will mature on April 17, 2022. The Companys obligations under the New Term Loan Facility will mature on April 17, 2024. The Company was required to make quarterly principal payments in an amount equal to $3.6 million on the New Term Loan Facility on the last day of each fiscal quarter beginning on June 30, 2017 but satisfied this requirement as a result of the principal prepayment of $444.5 million on September 13, 2017 in conjunction with the issuance of the additional 6% Senior Notes. In addition, the Company is required to make mandatory payments of amounts outstanding under the New Credit Facility with the proceeds of certain casualty events, debt issuances, and asset sales and, depending on its consolidated total leverage ratio, the Company may be required to apply a portion of its excess cash flow to repay amounts outstanding under the New Credit Facility.


The interest rate per annum applicable to loans under the New Revolving Credit Facility are, at our option, either (i) LIBOR plus a margin ranging from 1.75% to 2.50% or (ii) a base rate plus a margin ranging from 0.75% to 1.50%, which margin is based on our total leverage ratio. The interest rate per annum applicable to the loans under the New Term Loan Facility is, at our option, either (i) LIBOR plus 2.25%, or (ii) a base rate plus 1.25%; provided, however,company’s assets that in no event will LIBOR be less than zero or the base rate be less than 1.00% over the term of the New Term Loan Facility or the New Revolving Credit Facility. Additionally, the Company pays a commitment fee on the unused portion of the New Revolving Credit Facility not being utilized in the amount of 0.50% per annum.

The New Credit Facility contains a number of customary covenants that, among other things, restrict, subject to certain exceptions, the Companys ability and the ability of the subsidiary guarantors to incur debt; create liens; engage in mergers, consolidations or asset dispositions; pay dividends or make distributions; make investments, loans or advances; engage in certain transactions with affiliates or subsidiaries; or modify their lines of business.

The New Credit Facility is secured by substantially all of the Company’s personal property assets and substantially all personal property assets of each subsidiary that guaranties the New Credit Facility (other than certain subsidiary guarantors designated as immaterial) (the “New Credit Facility Guarantors”), whether owned on the closing date of the New Credit Facility or thereafter acquired, and mortgages on the real property and improvements owned or leased us or the New Credit Facility Guarantors. The New Credit Facility is also secured by a pledge of all of the equity owned by the Company and the New Credit Facility Guarantors (subject to certain gaming law restrictions). The credit agreement governing the New Credit Facility contains a number of customary covenants that, among other things, restrict, subject to certain exceptions, the Company’s ability and the ability of the New Credit Facility Guarantors to incur additional indebtedness, create liens, engage in mergers, consolidations or asset dispositions, make distributions, make investments, loans or advances, engage in certain transactions with affiliates or subsidiaries or make capital expenditures.

The New Credit Facility also includes certain financial covenants, including the requirements that we maintain throughout the term of the New Credit Facility and measured as of the end of each fiscal quarter, and solely with respect to loans under the New Revolving Credit Facility, a maximum consolidated total leverage ratio of not more than 6.50 to 1.00 for the period beginning on the closing date and ending with the fiscal quarter ending December 31, 2018, 6.00 to 1.00 for the period beginning with the fiscal quarter beginning January 1, 2019 and ending with the fiscal quarter ending December 31, 2019, and 5.50 to 1.00 for the period beginning with the fiscal quarter beginning January 1, 2020 and thereafter. The Company will also be required to maintain an interest coverage ratio in an amount not less than 2.00 to 1.00 measured on the last day of each fiscal quarter beginning on the closing date, and ending with the fiscal quarter ending December 31, 2018, 2.50 to 1.00 for the period beginning with the fiscal quarter beginning January 1, 2019 and ending with the fiscal quarter ending December 31, 2019, and 2.75 to 1.00 for the period beginning with the fiscal quarter beginning January 1, 2020 and thereafter.

The New Credit Facility contains a number of customary events of default, including, among others, for the non-payment of principal, interest or other amounts, the inaccuracy of certain representations and warranties, the failure to perform or observe certain covenants, a cross default to our other indebtedness including the Notes, certain events of bankruptcy or insolvency; certain ERISA events, the invalidity of certain loan documents, certain changes of control and the loss of certain classes of licenses to conduct gaming. If any event of default occurs, the lenders under the New Credit Facility would be entitled to take various actions, including accelerating amounts outstanding thereunder and taking all actions permitted to be taken by a secured creditor. As of December 31, 2017, the Company was in compliance with the covenants under the New Credit Facility.

Note 10. Income Taxes

On December 22, 2017, the U.S. government enacted comprehensive tax legislation commonly referred to as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “Tax Act”). The Tax Act makes broad and complex changes to the U.S. tax code, including, but not limited to, (1) reducing the U.S. federal corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%; (2) eliminating the corporate alternative minimum tax (AMT) and changing how existing AMT credits can be realized; (3) creating a new limitation on deductible interest expense; (4) changing rules related to uses and limitations of net operating loss carryforwards created in tax years beginning after December 31, 2017; (5) bonus depreciation that will allow for full expensing of qualified property; and (6) limitations on the deductibility of certain executive compensation.  


The SEC staff issued Staff Accounting Bulletin (“SAB”) 118, which provides guidance on accounting for the tax effects of the Tax Act. SAB 118 provides a measurement period that should not extend beyond one year from the Tax Act enactment date for companies to complete the accounting under ASC 740. In accordance with SAB 118, a company must reflect the income tax effects of those aspects of the Tax Act for which the accounting under ASC 740 is complete. To the extent that a company’s accounting for certain income tax effects of the Tax Act is incomplete but it is able to determine a reasonable estimate, it must record a provisional estimate in the financial statements. If a company cannot determine a provisional estimate to be included in the financial statements, it should continue to apply ASC 740 on the basis of the provisions of the tax laws that were in effect immediately before the enactment of the Tax Act.

In connection with our initial analysis of the impact of the Tax Act, for certain of our net deferred tax liabilities, we have recorded a decrease of $112.4 million, net of the related change in valuation allowance, with a corresponding net adjustment to deferred income tax benefit for the year ending December 31, 2017 as a result of the corporate rate reduction. While we were able to make a reasonable estimate of the impact of the reduction in the corporate rate, it may be affected by other analyses related to the Tax Act, including, but not limited to additional guidance issued by the U.S. Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service regarding compensation deferred taxes, as well as the state tax effect of adjustments made to federal temporary differences.

While we have not yet completed all of the computations necessary or completed an inventory of our 2017 expenditures that qualify for immediate expensing, we have recorded a provisional benefit based on our current intent to fully expense all qualifying expenditures. This did not result in any significant change to our current income tax payable or in our deferred tax liabilities due to our federal and state net operating loss carry forwards.

The components of the Company’s provision for income taxes for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 are presented below (amounts in thousands).

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

Current:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Federal

 

$

 

(3,959

)

 

$

 

(12

)

 

$

 

(29

)

State

 

 

 

380

 

 

 

 

1,173

 

 

 

 

665

 

Local

 

 

 

(627

)

 

 

 

739

 

 

 

 

557

 

Total current

 

 

 

(4,206

)

 

 

 

1,900

 

 

 

 

1,193

 

Deferred:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Federal

 

 

 

(105,058

)

 

 

 

12,881

 

 

 

 

(68,103

)

State

 

 

 

(29

)

 

 

 

(1,448

)

 

 

 

(2,691

)

Local

 

 

 

(7,977

)

 

 

 

(89

)

 

 

 

21

 

Total deferred

 

 

 

(113,064

)

 

 

 

11,344

 

 

 

 

(70,773

)

Income tax (benefit) expense

 

$

 

(117,270

)

 

$

 

13,244

 

 

$

 

(69,580

)


The following is a reconciliation of the statutory federal income tax rate to the Company’s effective tax rate for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015:

 

 

2017

 

 

 

2016

 

 

 

2015

 

 

Federal statutory rate

 

 

35.0

 

%

 

 

35.0

 

%

 

 

35.0

 

%

State and local taxes

 

 

2.8

 

%

 

 

4.3

 

%

 

 

1.0

 

%

State tax rate adjustment

 

 

5.7

 

%

 

 

 

%

 

 

(3.3

)

%

Stock compensation

 

 

2.3

 

%

 

 

(2.0

)

%

 

 

 

%

Permanent items

 

 

(4.6

)

%

 

 

1.5

 

%

 

 

0.4

 

%

Goodwill impairment

 

 

(27.1

)

%

 

 

 

%

 

 

 

%

Transaction expenses

 

 

(10.7

)

%

 

 

 

%

 

 

 

%

Tax Cuts and Jobs Act

 

 

265.5

 

%

 

 

 

%

 

 

 

%

Valuation allowance

 

 

(2.3

)

%

 

 

(3.6

)

%

 

 

(180.5

)

%

Minority interest

 

 

(0.1

)

%

 

 

0.1

 

%

 

 

0.2

 

%

Change in tax status

 

 

 

%

 

 

 

%

 

 

18.2

 

%

Non-taxable gain on fair value adjustment

 

 

 

%

 

 

 

%

 

 

(27.9

)

%

Credits

 

 

3.5

 

%

 

 

(1.8

)

%

 

 

(1.0

)

%

Other

 

 

0.6

 

%

 

 

1.3

 

%

 

 

1.9

 

%

Effective income tax rate

 

 

270.6

 

%

 

 

34.8

 

%

 

 

(156.0

)

%

For the year ended December 31, 2017, the difference between the effective rate and the statutory rate is attributable primarily to the impact of the Tax Act discussed more fully below, non-deductible asset impairment charges and non-deductible transaction costs incurred and changes in the effective state tax rate associated with the acquisition of Isle of Capri. The Company continues to provide for a valuation allowance against net federal and state deferred tax assets associated with non-operating land, the sale of which could result in capital losses that can only be offset against capital gains. The Company also continues to provide for a valuation allowance against net state deferred tax assets relating to certain operations in Pennsylvania, Louisiana, Colorado and Iowa. Management determined it was not more-likely-than-not that the Company will realize these net deferred tax assets.

For the year ended December 31, 2016, the difference between the effective rate and the statutory rate is attributable primarily to the release of a majority of the state valuation allowances on the Company’s West Virginia deferred tax assets and excess tax benefits on stock compensation under Accounting Standards Update 2016-09, Compensation – Stock Compensation, which the Company adopted effective the first quarter of 2016. The Company continues to provide for a valuation allowance against net federal and state deferred tax assets associated with non-operating land, the sale of which could result in capital losses that can only be offset against capital gains. As of December 31, 2016, the Company also continued to provide for a valuation allowance against net state deferred tax assets relating to operations in Pennsylvania. Management determined it was not more-likely-than-not that the Company will realize these net deferred tax assets.

For the year ended December 31, 2015, the difference between the effective rate and the statutory rate is attributable primarily to the release of a majority of the federal and related state valuation allowances on the Company’s deferred tax assets and the non-taxable gain on the fair value adjustment of a previously unconsolidated affiliate. The Company continues to provide for a valuation allowance against net federal and state deferred tax assets associated with non-operating land, the sale of which could result in capital losses that can only be offset against capital gains. As of December 31, 2015, the Company also continued to provide for a valuation allowance against net state deferred tax assets relating to operations in Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Management determined it was not more-likely-than-not that the Company will realize these net deferred tax assets.


A valuation allowance is recognized if, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more-likely-than-not that some portion, or all, of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. Management must analyze all available positive and negative evidence regarding realization of the deferred tax assets and make an assessment of the likelihood of sufficient future taxable income. For the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company was in a three-year cumulative income position and management concluded it was more-likely-than-not to realize its federal, Louisiana and City of Columbus, Ohio deferred tax assets, with the exception of non-operating land. The recognition of the federal deferred tax assets during 2015 resulted in an income tax benefit of $80.3 million. For the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company remained in a three-year cumulative income position and management concluded it was more-likely-than-not to realize its federal, Louisiana, City of Columbus, Ohio and West Virginia deferred tax assets, with the exception of non-operating land. The recognition of the West Virginia deferred tax assets during 2016 resulted in an income tax benefit of $1.4 million. For the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company remained in a three-year cumulative income position and management concluded it is more-likely-than-not to realize its federal, City of Columbus, Ohio, City of Kansas City, Missouri, West Virginia, Missouri and certain Pennsylvania, Colorado and Florida deferred tax assets, with the exception of non-operating land. The recognition of the Pennsylvania deferred tax assets during 2017 resulted in an income tax benefit of $5.2 million. Management has determined that it is not more-likely-than-not that the Company will realize certain of its Pennsylvania, Louisiana, Colorado and Iowa deferred tax assets. Therefore, a full valuation allowance has been recognized against these deferred tax assets, excluding deferred tax liabilities related to indefinite‑lived assets. These indefinite‑lived assets primarily related to gaming licenses in various jurisdictions. These gaming licenses are not being amortized for book purposes, and will only reverse upon ultimate sale or book impairment. Due to the uncertain timing of such reversal, the temporary differences associated with indefinite‑lived intangibles and certain land improvements cannot be considered a source of future taxable income for purposes of determining the valuation allowance. The Company will continue to evaluate the realization of its deferred tax assets on a quarterly basis and make adjustments to its valuation allowance as appropriate.

On November 24, 2015, Eldorado Resorts LLC, an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of ERI, acquired the additional 50% membership interest in the Silver Legacy Joint Venture partnership. Prior to the 2015 acquisition, a deferred tax asset was recognized to the extent that the tax basis in the partnership interest exceeded the book basis. As a result of the 2015 acquisition, the partnership ceased to exist and the Company wrote off the outside basis deferred tax asset of $8.1 million as a change in tax status.

Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. Significant components of the Company’s net deferred taxes related to continuing operations at December 31, 2016 and 2015 are as follows (amounts in thousands):

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

Deferred tax assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss carryforwards

 

$

 

58,245

 

 

$

 

38,377

 

Accrued expenses

 

 

 

9,633

 

 

 

 

7,748

 

Fixed assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6,327

 

Debt

 

 

 

2,147

 

 

 

 

9,991

 

Credit carryforwards

 

 

 

19,838

 

 

 

 

2,576

 

Stock-based compensation

 

 

 

2,451

 

 

 

 

1,216

 

Other

 

 

 

6,738

 

 

 

 

51

 

 

 

 

 

99,052

 

 

 

 

66,286

 

Deferred tax liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Identified intangibles

 

 

 

(203,015

)

 

 

 

(143,823

)

Fixed assets

 

 

 

(28,375

)

 

 

 

 

Investment in partnerships

 

 

 

(2,146

)

 

 

 

(2,742

)

Prepaid expenses

 

 

 

(3,288

)

 

 

 

(2,804

)

Other

 

 

 

(87

)

 

 

 

(100

)

 

 

 

 

(236,911

)

 

 

 

(149,469

)

Valuation allowance

 

 

 

(26,271

)

 

 

 

(7,202

)

Net deferred tax liabilities

 

$

 

(164,130

)

 

$

 

(90,385

)

As of December 31, 2017, the Company had federal and state net operating loss carryforwards of $147.2 million and $387.7 million, respectively. The federal and state net operating losses begin to expire in 2030 and 2018, respectively. As of December 31, 2017, the Company had federal jobs credit carry forwards of $19.6 million, which begin to expire in 2024.


Utilization of net operating loss, credit, and other carryforwards are subject to annual limitations due to ownership changes as provided by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended and similar state provisions. An ownership change is defined as a greater than 50% change in ownership by 5% stockholders in any three‑year period. Under Sections 382 and 383 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, the Company had a “change in ownership” event that limits the utilization of net operating loss, credit, and other carryforwards that were previously available to MTR, Isle of Capri and the Company to offset future taxable income. The “change in ownership” event for MTR occurred on September 19, 2014 in connection with the MTR Merger. The “change in ownership” event for Isle of Capri and the Company occurred on May 1, 2017 in connection with the merger with Isle of Capri. This limitation resulted in no significant loss of federal attributes, but did result in significant loss of state attributes. The federal and state net operating loss credit and other carryforwards are stated net of limitations.

As of December 31, 2017, there were no unrecognized tax benefits and the Company does not expect a significant increase or decrease to the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits within the next twelve months. We recognize accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense.

The Company and its subsidiaries file US federal income tax returns and various state and local income tax returns. The Company does not have tax sharing agreements with the other members within the consolidated ERI group. With few exceptions, the Company is no longer subject to US federal or state and local tax examinations by tax authorities for years before 2012.

The Company was notified by the Internal Revenue Service in October of 2016 that its federal tax return for the year ended December 31, 2014 had been selected for examination. In September 2017, the IRS informed the Company that they completed the examination of the tax return and made no changes. However, the Company may be subject to audit in the future and the outcome of tax audits cannot be predicted with certainty. If any issues addressed in the Company’s tax audits are resolved in a manner not consistent with the Company’s expectations, we would be required to adjust our provision for income taxes in the period such resolution occurs. While the Company believes its reported results are materially accurate, any significant adjustments could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s resultsfinancial statements.

Because of operations, cash flowsits inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP

Las Vegas, Nevada
February 20, 2024
Table of Contents
110


Item 9B.    Other Information
Rule 10b5-1 Trading Plans
For the three months ended December 31, 2023, none of our directors or officers (as defined in Rule 16a-1(f) of the Exchange Act) adopted, modified or terminated a “Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement” or “non-Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement,” as defined in Item 408 of Regulation S-K.
Item 9C.    Disclosure Regarding Foreign Jurisdictions that Prevent Inspections
Not applicable.
Table of Contents
111


PART III
Item 10.    Directors, Executive Officers and financial position.

Corporate Governance
The information required by this Item is hereby incorporated by reference to our definitive Proxy Statement for our Annual Meeting of Stockholders (our “Proxy Statement”) to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission no later than April 29, 2024, pursuant to Regulation 14A under the Securities Act.
We have adopted a code of ethics and business conduct applicable to all directors and employees, including the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer. The code of business conduct and ethics is posted on our website, http://www.caesars.com/corporate (accessible through the “Governance” caption of the Investors page) and a printed copy will be delivered on request by writing to the Corporate Secretary at Caesars Entertainment, Inc., c/o Corporate Secretary, 100 West Liberty Street, 12th Floor, Reno, NV 89501. We intend to satisfy the disclosure requirement regarding certain amendments to, or waivers from, provisions of its code of business conduct and ethics by posting such information on our website.

Note

Item 11.    Employee Benefit Plans

Effective January 1, 2016, the Company electedExecutive Compensation

The information required by this Item is hereby incorporated by reference to merge the plan assets of all its wholly-owned subsidiaries into the MTR Gaming Group, Inc. Retirement Plan (the “MTR Retirement Plan”) and renamed it the Eldorado Resorts, Inc. 401(k) Plan (“ERI 401(k) Plan”). As a result, assets of the Eldorado Hotel & Casino Master 401(k) Plan, the Silver Legacy 401(k) Plan and Circus Circus Reno MGM Resorts 401(k) Savings Plan transferred in the ERI 401(k) Plan. Generally, all employees of ERI who are 21 years of age or older, who have completed six months and 1,000 hours of service and who are not covered by collective bargaining agreements, including the named executive officers, are eligibleour Proxy Statement, to participate in the ERI 401(k) Plan. Employees who elect to participate in the ERI 401(k) Plan could defer up to 100% but not less than 1% of their annual compensation, subject to statutory and certain other limits. The plan covering ERI’s employees allows for an employer contribution up to 50 percent of the first four percent of each participating employee’s contribution, up to a maximum of $1,000, subject to statutory and certain other limits. ERI’s matching contributions totaled $1.6 million and $1.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

Prior to 2016, the Resorts’ 401 (k) plan participated in a multi-employer savings plan (the “401(k) Plan”) qualified under Sections 401(a) and 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. The 401(k) Plan in which Resorts participated functioned as an aggregation of several single-employer plans in order to enable the participating employers to pool plan assets for investment purposes and to reduce the costs of plan administration. The 401(k) Plan maintained separate accounts for each employer so that each employer’s contributions provided benefits only for its employees. Generally, all employees of Resorts who were 21 years of age or older, who had completed six months and 1,000 hours of service and who were not covered by collective bargaining agreements, including the named executive officers, were eligible to participate in the 401(k) Plan. Employees who elected to participate in the 401(k) Plan could defer up to 100% but not less than 1% of their annual compensation, subject to statutory and certain other limits. Effective February 1, 2014, Eldorado Reno implemented an employer matching contribution up to 25 percent of the first four percent of each participating employee’s compensation. Employees of the Eldorado Shreveport also participated in Resorts’ 401(k) Plan. The plan covering Eldorado Shreveport’s employees allowed for an employer contribution up to 50 percent of the first six percent of each participating employee’s contribution, subject to statutory and certain other limits. Resorts’ matching contributions totaled $0.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2015.


Isle has a 401(k) plan covering substantially all of its employees who have completed 90 days of service. Expense for contributions from continuing operations related to the 401(k) plan was $1.0 million or the 2017 period subsequent to the Isle Acquisition Date. Isle’s contribution is based on a percentage of employee contributions and may include an additional discretionary amount.

Previously MTR Gaming participated in the MTR Retirement Plan. At that time, the Mountaineer qualified defined contribution plan and the Scioto Downs’ 401(k) plan were merged into the MTR Retirement Plan. Additionally, the MTR Retirement Plan provided 401(k) participation to Presque Isle Downs’ employees. Matching contributions by MTR Gaming were $0.1 million for 2015.

Mountaineer’s qualified defined contribution plan (established by West Virginia legislation) covers substantially all of its employees and was merged as a component of the MTR Retirement Plan as previously discussed. Contributions to the plan are based on 1/4% of the race track and simulcast wagering handles and approximately 1% of the net win from gaming operations until the racetrack reaches its Excess Net Terminal Income threshold, which for Mountaineer is approximately $160 million per year based on the state’s June 30 fiscal year. Contributions to the ERI 401(k) Plan for the benefit of Mountaineer employees were $1.1 million, $1.2 million and $1.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Scioto Downs sponsors a noncontributory defined-benefit plan covering all full-time employees meeting certain age and service requirements. On May 31, 2001, the plan was amended to freeze eligibility, accrual of years of service and benefits. As of December 31, 2017, the fair value of the plan assets was $1.2 million and the fair value of the benefit obligations was $0.8 million, resulting in an over-funded status of $0.4 million. The plan assets are comprised primarily of money market and mutual funds whose values are determined based on quoted market prices and are classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. We did not make cash contributions to the Scioto Downs pension plan during 2017, 2016 and 2015.

Note 12. Stock-Based Compensation

Common Stock and Stock‑Based Awards

The Company has authorized common stock of 100,000,000 shares, par value $0.00001 per share.

The Company accounts for stock-based compensation in accordance with ASC 718, Compensation—Stock Compensation. Total stock-based compensation expense in the accompanying consolidated statements of income was $6.3 million, $3.3 million and $1.5 million during the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

The Board of Directors (“BOD”) adopted the Eldorado Resorts, Inc. 2015 Equity Incentive Plan (“2015 Plan”) on January 23, 2015 and our stockholders subsequently approved the adoption of the 2015 Plan on June 23, 2015. The Plan permits the granting of stock options, including incentive stock options (“ERI Stock Options”), stock appreciation rights, restricted stock or restricted stock units (“RSUs”), performance awards, and other stock-based awards and dividend equivalents. ERI Stock Options primarily vest ratably over three years and RSUs granted to employees and executive officers primarily vest and become non-forfeitable upon the third anniversary of the date of grant. RSUs granted to non-employee directors vest immediately and are delivered upon the date that is the earlier of termination of service on the BOD or the consummation of a change of control of the Company. The performance awards relate to the achievement of defined levels of performance and are generally measured over a one or two-year performance period depending upon the award agreement. If the performance award levels are achieved, the awards earned will vest and become payable at the end of the vesting period, defined as either a one or two calendar year period following the performance period. Payout ranges are from 0% up to 200% of the award target.

Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, the outstanding equity awards of Isle were converted into comparable equity awards of ERI stock as follows:

Isle stock options. Each option or other right to acquire Isle common stock (each an “Isle Stock Option”) that was outstanding immediately prior to the Isle Acquisition Date (whether vested or unvested), as of the Isle Acquisition Date, (i) continued to vest or accelerate (if unvested), as the case may be in accordancefiled with the applicable Isle stock plan, the award agreementSecurities and Exchange Commission no later than April 29, 2024, pursuant to which such Isle Stock Option was grantedRegulation 14A under the Securities Act.

Item 12.    Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and if applicable, any other relevant agreements (such as an employment agreement), (ii) ceasedManagement and Related Stockholder Matters
The information required by this Item is hereby incorporated by reference to represent an option or rightour Proxy Statement, to acquire shares of Isle common stock,be filed with the Securities and (iii) was converted into an option or right to purchase that number of shares ERI common stock equal to the number of shares of Isle common stock subject to the Isle Stock Option multiplied by the Stock Consideration at an exercise price equal to the exercise price of the Isle Stock Option divided by the Stock Consideration, subject to the same restrictions and other terms as are set forth in the Isle equity incentive plan, the award agreementExchange Commission no later than April 29, 2024, pursuant to which such Isle Stock Option was granted and, if applicable, any other relevant agreements (such as an employment agreement).


Isle restricted stock awards. Each share of Isle common stock subject to vesting, repurchase or lapse restrictions (each an “Isle Restricted Share”) that was outstanding under any Isle equity plan or otherwise immediately prior to the Isle Acquisition Date, as of the Isle Acquisition Date, continued to vest or accelerate (if unvested), as the case may be, in accordance with the applicable Isle stock plan, the award agreement pursuant to which such Isle Restricted Share was granted, and, if applicable, any other relevant agreements (such as an employment agreement) and was exchanged for shares of ERI common stock (in an amount equal to the Stock Consideration, with aggregated fractional shares rounded to the nearest whole share) and remain subject to the same restrictions and other terms as are set forth in the Isle stock plan, the award agreement pursuant to which such Isle Restricted Share was granted, and, if applicable, any other relevant agreements (such as an employment agreement).

Isle performance stock units. Each performance stock unit (each, an “Isle PSU”) that was outstanding immediately prior to the Isle Acquisition Date, as of the Isle Acquisition Date, (i) continued to vest or accelerate (if unvested), as the case may be, in accordance with the applicable Isle stock plan, the award agreement pursuant to which such Isle PSU was granted, and, if applicable, any other relevant agreements (such as an employment agreement), (ii) was converted into a number of performance stock units in respect of shares of ERI common stock, in an amount equal to the Stock Consideration (with aggregated fractional shares rounded to the nearest whole share) at the target level of performance, and (iii) remain subject to the same restrictions and other terms as are set forth in the Isle stock plan, the award agreement pursuant to which such Isle PSU was granted, and, if applicable, any other relevant agreements (such as an employment agreement).

Isle restricted stock units. Each restricted stock unit, deferred stock unit or phantom unit in respect of a share of Isle common stock grantedRegulation 14A under the applicable Isle stock plan or otherwise, including any such units held in participant accounts under any employee benefit or compensation plan or arrangement of Isle, other than an Isle PSU (each an “Isle RSU”) that was outstanding immediately prior to the Isle Acquisition Date, as of the Isle Acquisition Date, (i) continued to vest or accelerate (if unvested), as the case may be, in accordance with the applicable Isle stock plan, the award agreement pursuant to which such Isle RSU was granted, and, if applicable, any other relevant agreements (such as an employment agreement or applicable employee benefit plan), (ii) was converted into a number of restricted stock units, deferred stock units or phantom units, as applicable, in respect of shares of ERI common stock, in an amount equal to the Stock Consideration (with aggregated fractional shares rounded to the nearest whole share), and (iii) remain subject to the same restrictions and other terms as are set forth in the Isle stock plan, the award agreement pursuant to which such Isle RSU was granted, and, if applicable, any other relevant agreements (such as an employment agreement or applicable employee benefit plan).

On January 23, 2015, the Compensation Committee of the BOD of the Company approved the grant of 685,606 RSUs and performance awards with a fair value of $4.03 per unit, the NASDAQ average price per share on that date, to executive officers and certain key employees under the 2015 Plan, and the grant of 89,900 RSUs with a fair value of $4.03 per unit, the NASDAQ average price per share on that date, to non-employee members of the BOD under the 2015 Plan. Such awards became effective upon our stockholders’ approval of the 2015 Plan on June 23, 2015. Throughout 2015, an additional 9,171 RSUs were granted to certain employees under the 2015 Plan.

On January 22, 2016, the Compensation Committee of the BOD of the Company approved the grant of 367,519 RSUs and performance awards, to executive officers and certain key employees, and the grant of 34,920 RSUs to non-employee members of the BOD under the 2015 Plan. The RSUs had a fair value of $10.77 per unit which was the NASDAQ average price per share on that date. Throughout 2016, an additional 14,661 RSUs were granted to certain employees under the 2015 Plan.

On January 27, 2017, the Company granted 298,761 RSUs (time-based awards and performance awards with a two-year performance period) to executive officers and key employees, and 46,282 RSUs (time-based awards) to non-employee members of the BOD under the 2015 Plan. The performance awards granted in 2017 are based on a two-year performance criteria and accounted for as two sub-awards. The January 27, 2017, RSUs had a fair value of $15.50 per unit which was the NASDAQ closing price on that date. An additional 246,755 RSUs were also granted to key employees during the year ended December 31, 2017.

On January 26, 2018, the Company granted 353,897 RSUs (time-based awards and performance awards with a two-year performance period) to executive officers, key employees and non-employee members of the BOD under the 2015 Plan. The RSUs had a fair value of $32.52 per unit which was the NASDAQ closing price on that date.


A summary of the RSU activity, including performance awards and converted Isle awards, for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2016 and 2017 is as follows:

 

 

 

Equity Awards

 

 

 

Weighted-Average Grant

Date

Fair Value

 

 

 

Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Life

 

 

 

Aggregate Fair Value

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(in years)

 

 

 

(in millions)

 

Unvested outstanding as of January 1, 2015

 

 

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

 

 

Granted (1)

 

 

 

917,283

 

 

 

 

4.08

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vested

 

 

 

(89,900

)

 

 

 

4.03

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unvested outstanding as of December 31, 2015

 

 

 

827,383

 

 

$

 

4.09

 

 

 

 

2.12

 

 

$

 

3.40

 

Granted (2)

 

 

 

410,694

 

 

 

 

10.81

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vested

 

 

 

(255,707

)

 

 

 

5.83

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unvested outstanding as of December 31, 2016

 

 

 

982,370

 

 

$

 

6.45

 

 

 

 

1.41

 

 

$

 

6.33

 

Granted (3)

 

 

 

600,206

 

 

 

 

20.91

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exchanged (4)

 

 

 

860,557

 

 

 

 

18.94

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Forfeited

 

 

 

(11,870

)

 

 

 

15.74

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vested

 

 

 

(851,764

)

 

 

 

18.37

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unvested outstanding as of December 31, 2017

 

 

 

1,579,499

 

 

$

 

12.25

 

 

 

 

0.92

 

 

$

 

19.35

 

(1)

Includes 475,409 of performance awards at 135% of target and 351,974 time-based awards at 100% of target all of which were granted in 2015.

Securities Act.

(2)

Includes 176,632 of performance awards at 96.5% of target and 234,062 time-based awards at 100% of target.

(3)

Includes 107,309 of performance awards at 108.5% of target, 100,833 of performance awards at 100% of target and 392,064 time-based awards at 100% of target. Performance awards granted in 2017 are based on a two-year performance criteria and accounted for as two sub-awards.

(4)

Represents exchanged Isle RSUs as a result of the Isle Acquisition based on the average of the ERI share price on the grant dates.

As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company had $11.1 million and $2.5 million, respectively, of unrecognized compensation expense, including 2017 performance awards at 108.5% and 100% of target, respectively, and 2016 performance awards at 96.5% target, related to unvested RSUs. The RSUs are expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 0.92 years and 1.41 years, respectively.

During the first quarter of 2016, the Company’s chief operating officer terminated employment and the chief financial officer retired. In conjunction with the termination and retirement, unvested RSUs totaling 167,511, which were outstanding as of December 31, 2015, immediately vested representing an additional $0.5 million included in stock compensation expense during the first quarter of 2016. Additionally, severance costs totaling $1.4 million were recognized during the first quarter of 2016.

These amounts are included in corporate expenses and, in the case of certain property positions, general and administrative expenses in the Company’s consolidated statements of income. We recognized a reduction in income tax expense of $1.0 million and $0.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, for excess tax benefits related to stock-based compensation.


A summary of the ERI Stock Option activity for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2016 and 2017:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted-

 

 

Weighted-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average

 

 

Average

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Range of

 

 

Exercise

 

 

Remaining

 

 

Aggregate

 

 

 

Options

 

 

Exercise Prices

 

 

Price

 

 

Contractual Life

 

 

Intrinsic Value

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(in years)

 

 

(in millions)

 

Outstanding and Exercisable as of

   January 1, 2015

 

 

398,200

 

 

$

2.44

 

 

$

16.27

 

 

$

 

7.88

 

 

 

 

4.54

 

 

$

 

0.2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Expired

 

 

(86,000

)

 

 

 

 

 

$

11.30

 

 

$

 

11.30

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outstanding and Exercisable as of

   December 31, 2015

 

 

312,200

 

 

$

2.44

 

 

$

16.27

 

 

$

 

6.94

 

 

 

 

3.47

 

 

$

 

1.3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Expired

 

 

(10,000

)

 

 

 

 

 

$

11.30

 

 

$

 

11.30

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exercised

 

 

(132,900

)

 

$

2.44

 

 

$

3.94

 

 

$

 

2.89

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outstanding and Exercisable as of

   December 31, 2016

 

 

169,300

 

 

$

2.44

 

 

$

16.27

 

 

$

 

9.94

 

 

 

 

0.86

 

 

$

 

1.2

 

Exchanged (1)

 

 

1,351,168

 

 

$

6.87

 

 

$

15.60

 

 

 

 

10.12

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Expired

 

 

(62,871

)

 

$

2.44

 

 

$

12.29

 

 

$

 

4.63

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exercised

 

 

(1,185,745

)

 

$

6.87

 

 

$

16.27

 

 

$

 

10.45

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outstanding and Exercisable as of

   December 31, 2017

 

 

271,852

 

 

$

3.94

 

 

$

15.60

 

 

$

 

9.63

 

 

 

 

1.04

 

 

$

 

6.4

 

There were 1,185,745 options exercised and 62,871 options expired in 2017. There were 132,900 options exercised and 10,000 options expired in 2016. There were no options exercised in 2015. Cash received from the exercise of stock options was $2.9 million and $0.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. The Company recognized a tax benefit from the stock option exercises of $1.0 million and $0.8 million in 2017 and 2016, respectively.

A summary of the ERI Restricted Stock Awards activity for the year ended December 31, 2017 is as follows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Grant Date

 

 

 

Restricted Stock

 

 

Fair Value

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outstanding as of December 31, 2016

 

 

 

 

$

 

Exchanged (1)

 

 

180,374

 

 

 

19.23

 

Forfeited

 

 

(1,602

)

 

 

19.13

 

Vested

 

 

(167,963

)

 

 

19.24

 

Outstanding as of December 31, 2017

 

 

10,809

 

 

$

19.13

 

(1)

Represents exchanged Isle Restricted Stock Awards as a result of the Isle Acquisition.

The Company’s unrecognized compensation cost for unvested restricted stock awards was $0.1 million as of December 31, 2017. The weighted average remaining life was 0.4 years and had an aggregate fair value of $0.1 million at December 31, 2017.


Note 13. Earnings per Share

The following table illustrates the required disclosure of the reconciliation of the numerators and denominators of the basic and diluted net income per share computations during the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 (dollars in thousands, except per share amounts):

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income available to common stockholders

 

$

 

73,940

 

 

$

 

24,802

 

 

$

 

114,183

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shares outstanding:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted average shares outstanding - basic

 

 

 

67,133,531

 

 

 

 

47,033,311

 

 

 

 

46,550,042

 

 

Effect of dilutive securities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stock options

 

 

 

98,294

 

 

 

 

96,515

 

 

 

 

120,479

 

 

RSUs

 

 

 

870,989

 

 

 

 

571,736

 

 

 

 

338,459

 

 

Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted

 

 

 

68,102,814

 

 

 

 

47,701,562

 

 

 

 

47,008,980

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income per common share attributable to common

   stockholders - basic:

 

$

 

1.10

 

 

$

 

0.53

 

 

$

 

2.45

 

 

Net income per common share attributable to common

   stockholders - diluted:

 

$

 

1.09

 

 

$

 

0.52

 

 

$

 

2.43

 

 

Note 14. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

The Company’s accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) is related to the Scioto Downs defined benefit pension plan. A summary of the change in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) during the three years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 is as follows (in thousands):

Balance as of December 31, 2014

$

87

Other comprehensive loss

(75

)

Balance as of December 31, 2015

12

Other comprehensive income

Balance as of December 31, 2016

12

Other comprehensive income

67

Balance as of December 31, 2017

$

79

Note 15. Fair Value Measurements

Fair value

Item 13.    Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
The information required by this Item is an exit price, representinghereby incorporated by reference to our Proxy Statement, to be filed with the amount that would be receivedSecurities and Exchange Commission no later than April 29, 2024, pursuant to sell an asset or paidRegulation 14A under the Securities Act.
Item 14.    Principal Accounting Fees and Services
The information about aggregate fees billed to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. Accordingly, fair value is a market based measurement that is determined based on assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability. As a basis for considering such assumptions, there is a three‑tier fair value hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair values as follows:

Level 1 Inputs: Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2 Inputs: Observable market‑based inputs or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data.

Level 3 Inputs: Unobservable inputs that are not corroborated by market data.

Items Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis: The following table sets forth the assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis, by input level, in the consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2017:

 

 

December 31, 2017

 

 

 

Level 1

 

 

Level 2

 

 

Total

 

Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Marketable securities

 

$

 

7,906

 

 

$

 

9,725

 

 

$

 

17,631

 

Restricted cash and investments

 

 

 

9,055

 

 

 

 

4,098

 

 

 

 

13,153

 


The following methods and assumptions are used to estimate the fair value of each class of financial instruments for which it is practical to estimate fair value:

Cash and Cash Equivalents: Cash equivalents include investments in money market funds. Investments in this category can be redeemed immediately at the current net asset value per share. A money market fund is a mutual fund whose investments are primarily in short‑term debt securities designed to maximize current income with liquidity and capital preservation, usually maintaining per share net asset value at a constant amount, such as one dollar. Cash and cash equivalents also includes cash maintained for gaming operations. The carrying amounts approximate the fair value because of the short maturity of those instruments (Level 1).

Restricted Cash: Restricted cash includes cash reserved for unredeemed winning tickets from the Company’s racing operations, funds related to horsemen’s fines and certain simulcasting funds that are restricted to payments for improving horsemen’s facilities and racing purses, cash deposits that serve as collateral for letters of credit, surety bonds and short-term certificates of deposit that serve as collateral for certain bonding requirements. The estimated fair values of our restricted cash and investments are based upon quoted prices available in active markets (Level 1), or quoted prices for similar assets in active and inactive markets (Level 2), and represent the amounts we would expect to receive if we sold our restricted cash and investments. Restricted investments, included in Other Assets, net, relate to trading securities pledged as collateralus by our captive insurance company.

Accounts Receivable and Credit Risk: The allowanceprincipal accountant, Deloitte & Touche LLP (PCAOB ID No. 34) is estimated based on specific review of customer accounts as well as historical collection experience and current economic and business conditions. Management believes that no significant concentrations of credit risk relatedincorporated herein by reference to receivables existed.

Marketable Securities:  Marketable securities consist primarily of trading securities held the Company’s captive insurance subsidiary. The estimated fair values of the Company’s marketable securities are determined on an individual asset basis based upon quoted prices of identical assets available in active markets (Level 1), quoted prices of identical assets in inactive markets, or quoted prices for similar assets in active and inactive markets (Level 2), and represent the amounts we would expect to receive if we sold these marketable securities.

Long‑term Debt: The fair value of our long-term debt or other long-term obligations is estimated based on the quoted market price of the underlying debt issue (Level 1) or, when a quoted market price is not available, the discounted cash flow of future payments utilizing current rates available to us for the debt of similar remaining maturities (Level 2). Debt obligations with a short remaining maturity have a carrying amount that approximates fair value.

Acquisition‑Related Contingent Considerations: Contingent consideration related to the July 2003 acquisition of Scioto Downs represents the estimate of amountsProxy Statement, to be paidfiled with the Securities and Exchange Commission no later than April 29, 2024, pursuant to former stockholdersRegulation 14A under the Securities Act.



PART IV
Item 15.    Exhibits and Level 2 investments.


Financial Statement Schedules

The estimated fair values of the Company’s financial instruments are as follows (amounts in thousands):

 

 

December 31, 2017

 

 

December 31, 2016

 

 

 

Carrying

 

 

Fair

 

 

Carrying

 

 

Fair

 

 

 

Amount

 

 

Value

 

 

Amount

 

 

Value

 

Financial assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

 

134,596

 

 

$

 

134,596

 

 

$

 

61,029

 

 

$

 

61,029

 

Restricted cash

 

 

 

13,153

 

 

 

 

13,153

 

 

 

 

2,414

 

 

 

 

2,414

 

Marketable securities

 

 

 

17,631

 

 

 

 

17,631

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Financial liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7% Senior Notes

 

$

 

367,854

 

 

$

 

400,800

 

 

$

 

366,859

 

 

$

 

397,500

 

6% Senior Notes

 

 

 

880,889

 

 

 

 

914,375

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

New Term Loan

 

 

 

938,002

 

 

 

 

956,750

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other long-term debt

 

 

 

2,531

 

 

 

 

2,531

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Term Loan

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

406,047

 

 

 

 

423,858

 

Revolving Credit Facility

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

26,977

 

 

 

 

29,000

 

Capital leases

 

 

 

917

 

 

 

 

917

 

 

 

 

543

 

 

 

 

543

 

Acquisition-related contingent considerations

 

 

 

486

 

 

 

 

486

 

 

 

 

496

 

 

 

 

496

 

The following table represents the change in acquisition-related contingent consideration liabilities for the period December 31, 2014 to December 31, 2017.

Balance as of January 1, 2015

$

524

(a)(i) Financial Statements

AmortizationIncluded in Part II (Item 8) of present value discount (1)

52

this Annual Report on Form 10-K:

Fair value adjustment for change in consideration

   expected to be paid (2)

38

Settlements

(85

)

529

2023 and 2022

Amortization

70

Operations for the Years Ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021

Fair value adjustment

(13

)

the Years Ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021

Settlements

(90

)

Balance

(a)(ii) Financial Statement Schedule

496

2023 and 2022 and for the Years Ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021

Amortization of present value discount (1)

69

We have omitted schedules other than the ones listed above because they are not required or are not applicable, or the required information is shown in the financial statements or notes to the financial statements.

Fair value adjustment for change in consideration

   expected to be paid (2)

(a)(iii) Exhibits


Exhibit
Number

Description of Exhibit

11

Method of Filing

Settlements

2.1

(90

)

Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on June 25, 2019.

Balance

2.2Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on August 16, 2019.
3.1Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on June 16, 2023.
3.2Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on August 1, 2022.
4.1Filed herewith.
4.2††Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on July 7, 2020.
4.3††Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on July 21, 2020.
4.4††Previously filed on Form 10-K filed on February 22, 2023.
4.5††Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on February 7, 2024.
4.6Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on July 7, 2020.
4.7Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on July 21, 2020.
4.8Previously filed on Form 10-K filed on February 22, 2023.
4.9Filed herewith.
4.10†††Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on July 7, 2020.
4.11†††Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on July 21, 2020.
4.12†††Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on August 10, 2021.
4.13Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on September 27, 2021.
4.14Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on October 5, 2022.
4.15Filed herewith.


Exhibit
Number
Description of ExhibitMethod of Filing
4.16Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on February 6, 2023.
4.17Previously filed on Form 10-Q filed on May 3, 2023.
4.18Filed herewith.
4.19Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on February 7, 2024.
10.1Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on July 21, 2020.
10.2Previously filed on Form 10-Q filed on November 9, 2020.
10.3Previously filed on Form 10-K on March 1, 2021.
10.4Previously filed on Form 10-Q on November 5, 2021.
10.5Previously filed on Form 10-K filed on February 24, 2022.
10.6Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on July 21, 2020.
10.7**Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on July 21, 2020.
10.8**Previously filed on Form 10-Q filed on November 9, 2020.
10.9Previously filed on Form 10-K on March 1, 2021.
10.10Previously filed on Form 10-Q on November 5, 2021.
10.11Previously filed on Form 10-K filed on February 24, 2022.
10.12

Previously filed on Form 10-K filed on February 24, 2022.
10.13

$

Previously filed on Form 10-Q filed on November 2, 2022.

486



(1)

Exhibit
Number

Changes

Description of ExhibitMethod of Filing
10.14Previously filed on Form 10-Q filed on May 3, 2023.
10.15Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on July 21, 2020.
10.16**Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on July 21, 2020.
10.17**Previously filed on Form 10-Q filed on November 9, 2020.
10.18Previously filed on Form10-K on March 1, 2021.
10.19Previously filed on Form 10-Q on November 5, 2021
10.20Previously filed on Form 10-K filed on February 24, 2022.
10.21Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on July 21, 2020.
10.22*Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on July 21, 2020.
10.23Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on July 21, 2020.
10.24Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on July 21, 2020.
10.25*Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on July 21, 2020.
10.26*Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on September 18, 2020.
10.27*Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on July 21, 2020.
10.28Previously filed on Form 8-K filed by Caesars Holdings, Inc. on July 21, 2020.
10.29Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on July 21, 2020.
10.30Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on July 21, 2020.
10.31Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on November 10, 2021.
10.32Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on January 27, 2022.
10.33Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on October 5, 2022.
10.34*Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on February 6, 2023.


Exhibit
Number
Description of ExhibitMethod of Filing
10.35*Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on February 7, 2024.
10.36Previously filed on Form 8-K filed by Caesars Holdings, Inc. on October 13, 2017.
10.37Previously filed on Form 8-K filed by Caesars Holdings, Inc. on April 6, 2020.
10.38Previously filed on Form 8-K/A filed by Caesars Holdings, Inc. on April 14, 2020.
10.39†Previously filed on Form S-8 filed by Caesars Holdings, Inc. on December 13, 2018.
10.40†Previously filed on Form S-8 filed by Caesars Holdings, Inc. on December 13, 2018.
10.41†Previously filed on Form S-8 POS filed on June 29, 2019.
10.42†Previously filed on Form 10-Q filed on November 9, 2020.
10.43†Previously filed on Form 10-K filed on February 28, 2020.
10.44†Previously filed on Form 10-K on March 1, 2021.
10.45†Previously filed on Form 10-K on March 1, 2021.
10.46†Previously filed on Form 10-K filed on February 28, 2020.
10.47†Previously filed on Registration Statement Form S-1 filed by Eldorado Resorts, Inc. June 14, 2015.
10.48†Previously filed on Form 10-K filed on March 1, 2019.
10.49†Filed herewith.
10.50†Filed herewith.
10.51†Filed herewith.
10.52†Previously filed on Form 8-K filed on March 1, 2022.
10.53†Filed herewith.
10.54†Filed herewith.


Exhibit
Number
Description of ExhibitMethod of Filing
10.55Previously filed on Form 10-Q filed on November 9, 2020.
10.56Filed herewith.
14.1Filed herewith.
21.1Filed herewith.
23.1Filed herewith.
31.1Filed herewith.
31.2Filed herewith.
32.1Filed herewith.
32.2Filed herewith.
97.1Filed herewith.
99.1Filed herewith.
101.1Inline XBRL Instance DocumentFiled herewith.
101.2Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema DocumentFiled herewith.
101.3Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase DocumentFiled herewith.
101.4Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase DocumentFiled herewith.
101.5Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase DocumentFiled herewith.
101.6Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase DocumentFiled herewith.
104Cover Page Interactive Data File (embedded within the consolidated statements of income.

Inline XBRL document)
Filed herewith.
______________________

(2)

Fair value adjustments for changes in earn-out estimates are recorded as

Denotes a componentmanagement contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.
††On February 7, 2024, the CEI Senior Secured Notes due 2025 and the related amendments/incremental assumption agreements and the guarantees agreement were terminated.
†††On February 16, 2024, the CRC Secured Notes due 2025 and the related amendments/incremental assumption agreements and the guarantees agreement were terminated.
*Certain schedules and exhibits have been omitted pursuant to Item 601(a)(5) of generalRegulation S-K.
**Portions of this exhibit have been omitted pursuant to Item 601(b)(10)(iv) of Regulation S-K because such information is (i) not material and administrative expense in the consolidated statements(ii) could be competitively harmful if publicly disclosed.
wAnnexes, schedules and/or exhibits have been omitted pursuant to Item 601(b)(2) of income.

Regulation S-K.

Note

Item 16.    CommitmentsForm 10-K Summary
None.



Schedule I

CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF REGISTRANT PARENT COMPANY ONLY
CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS
As of December 31,
(In millions)20232022
ASSETS
Current assets$135 $188 
Investment in and advances to unconsolidated affiliates— 
Investment in subsidiaries11,523 10,465 
Property and equipment, net
Long-term intercompany notes4,401 — 
Other long-term assets, net25 146 
Total assets$16,086 $10,806 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities$306 $236 
Long-term debt11,199 6,826 
Other long-term liabilities29 31 
Total liabilities11,534 7,093 
Total stockholders’ equity4,552 3,713 
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity$16,086 $10,806 
See accompanying Notes to Condensed Financial Information.


Schedule I

CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF REGISTRANT PARENT COMPANY ONLY
CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
Years Ended December 31,
(In millions)202320222021
Net revenues$— $— $
Expenses:
Corporate expense43 
Depreciation and amortization
Transaction and other costs, net(26)11 60 
Total operating expenses(22)19 109 
Operating income (loss)22 (19)(105)
Other expense:
Interest expense(507)(428)(395)
Income (loss) on interests in subsidiaries1,268 (492)(437)
Loss on extinguishment of debt— — (14)
Other income (loss)40 (72)
Income (loss) from operations before income taxes786 (899)(1,023)
Benefit for income taxes— — 
Net income (loss)$786 $(899)$(1,019)
See accompanying Notes to Condensed Financial Information.


Schedule I

CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF REGISTRANT PARENT COMPANY ONLY
CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Years Ended December 31,
(In millions)202320222021
Cash flows used in operating activities$(296)$(329)$(448)
Cash flows from investing activities
Issuance of long-term intercompany notes(4,420)— — 
Collections from long-term intercompany notes19 — — 
Purchase of property and equipment, net— — (1)
William Hill Acquisition— — (3,938)
Proceeds from sale of businesses, property and equipment, net of cash sold— 15 — 
Proceeds from the sale of investments— 84 89 
Cash flows provided by (used in) investing activities(4,401)99 (3,850)
Cash flows from financing activities
Proceeds from long-term debt and revolving credit facilities5,460 750 1,200 
Debt issuance and extinguishment costs(79)(12)(17)
Repayments of long-term debt and revolving credit facilities(1,017)(89)(100)
Net proceeds (repayments) with related parties189 (592)705 
Cash paid to settle convertible notes— — (367)
Taxes paid related to net share settlement of equity awards(27)(27)(45)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock— 
Cash flows provided by financing activities4,526 31 1,379 
Decrease in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash(171)(199)(2,919)
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash, beginning of period316 515 3,434 
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash, end of period$145 $316 $515 
RECONCILIATION OF CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND RESTRICTED CASH TO AMOUNTS REPORTED WITHIN THE CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS
Cash and cash equivalents in current assets$134 $185 $199 
Restricted and escrow cash included in other long-term assets, net11 131 316 
Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash$145 $316 $515 
See accompanying Notes to Condensed Financial Information.



Schedule I

CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF REGISTRANT PARENT COMPANY ONLY
CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION

1.Background and Contingencies

Capital Leases.basis of presentation

These condensed parent company financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Rule 12-04, Schedule 1 of Regulation S-X, as the restricted net assets of Caesars Entertainment, Inc. and its subsidiaries exceed 25% of the consolidated net assets of Caesars Entertainment, Inc. and its subsidiaries (the “Company”). This information should be read in conjunction with the Company’s consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this filing.
2.Restricted net assets of subsidiaries
Certain of the Company’s subsidiaries have restrictions on their ability to pay dividends or make intercompany loans and advances pursuant to financing arrangements and regulatory restrictions. The Company leases certain equipment under agreements classifiedamount of restricted net assets the Company’s consolidated subsidiaries held as capital leases. The future minimum lease payments, including interest, atof December 31, 20172023 was approximately $4.5 billion. Such restrictions are $0.6 million, $0.4 million,on net assets of Caesars Entertainment, Inc. and $0.1 million in 2018, 2019, and 2020, respectively. After reducing these amounts for interestits subsidiaries. The amount of $0.2 million, the present value of the minimum lease payments at December 31, 2017 is $0.9 million.


Operating Leases.  The Company leases land and certain equipment, including some of our slot machines, timing and photo finish equipment, videotape and closed circuit television equipment, and certain pari‑mutuel equipment, under operating leases. Future minimum payments under non‑cancellable operating leases with initial terms of one year or more consisted of the following at December 31, 2017 (in thousands):

 

 

Leases

 

2018

 

$

 

12,057

 

2019

 

 

 

10,034

 

2020

 

 

 

8,400

 

2021

 

 

 

7,539

 

2022

 

 

 

6,628

 

Thereafter

 

 

 

143,530

 

 

 

$

 

188,188

 

Total rental expense under operating leases totaled $28.2 million, $17.0 million and $14.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Includedrestricted net assets in the $28.2 million is rent for land upon which the Eldorado Reno resides of $0.6 million in each of the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 whichCompany’s unconsolidated subsidiaries was paid to C. S. & Y. Associates which is an entity partially owned by Recreational Enterprises, Inc. (“REI”). The Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, Gary L. Carano, and its Senior Vice President of Regional operations, Gene Carano, are the directors of REI and members of the Carano family, including Gary L. Carano and Gene Carano, own the equity interests in REI. This rental agreement expires June 30, 2027 and the rental payments are more fully described in Note 17, Related Affiliates.

Litigation.  The Company is a party to various legal and administrative proceedings, which have arisen in the normal course of its business. Estimated losses are accrued for these proceedings when the loss is probable and can be estimated. The current liability for the estimated losses associated with these proceedings is not material to the financial statements.

3.Commitments, contingencies, and long-term obligations
For a discussion of the Company’s consolidated financial conditioncommitments, contingencies, and those estimated losses are not expected to have a material impact onlong-term obligations under its results of operations. In addition, the Company maintains what it believes is adequate insurance coverage to further mitigate the risks of such proceedings. However, such proceedings can be costly, time consumingcredit facilities, see Note 11 and unpredictable and, therefore, no assurance can be given that the final outcome Note 12of such proceedings may not materially impact the Company’s consolidated financial condition or resultsstatements.
Table of operations. Further, no assurance can be given that the amount of scope of existing insurance coverage will be sufficient to cover losses arising from such matter.

Collective Bargaining Agreements. As of December 31, 2017, we had approximately 12,500 employees. As of such date, we had 11 collective bargaining agreements covering approximately 970 employees. Three collective bargaining agreements are scheduled to expire in 2018. There can be no assurance that we will be able to extend or enter into replacement agreements. If we are able to extend or enter into replacement agreements, there can be no assurance as to whether the terms will on comparable terms to the existing agreements.

Agreements with Horsemen and Pari-mutuel Clerks.  The Federal Interstate Horse Racing Act and the state racing laws in West Virginia, Ohio and Pennsylvania require that, in order to simulcast races, we have written agreements with the horse owners and trainers at those racetracks. In addition, in order to operate slot machines in West Virginia, we are required to enter into written agreements regarding the proceeds of the slot machines (a “proceeds agreement”) with a representative of a majority of the horse owners and trainers and with a representative of a majority of the pari‑mutuel clerks. In Pennsylvania and Ohio, we must have an agreement with the representative of the horse owners. We have the requisite agreements in place with the horsemen at Mountaineer until December 31, 2018. With respect to the Mountaineer pari‑mutuel clerks, we have a labor agreement in force until November 30, 2018, which will automatically renew for an additional one-year period, and a proceeds agreement until April 14, 2018. We are required to have a proceeds agreement in effect on July 1 of each year with the horsemen and the pari‑mutuel clerks as a condition to renewal of our video lottery license for such year. If the requisite proceeds agreement is not in place as of July 1 of a particular year, Mountaineer’s application for renewal of its video lottery license could be denied, in which case Mountaineer would not be permitted to operate either its slot machines or table games. Scioto Downs has the requisite agreement in place with the OHHA until December 31, 2023, with automatic two‑year renewals unless either party requests re‑negotiation pursuant to its terms. Presque Isle Downs has the requisite agreement in place with the Pennsylvania Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association until May 1, 2019. With the exception of the respective Mountaineer, Presque Isle Downs and Scioto Downs horsemen’s agreements and the agreement between Mountaineer and the pari‑mutuel clerks’ union described above, each of the agreements referred to in this paragraph may be terminated upon written notice by either party.

Contents

122

Note 17. Related Affiliates

REI

As of December 31, 2017, REI owned approximately 14.5% of outstanding common stock of the Company. The directors of REI are Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, Gary L. Carano, its President and Chief Financial Officer and Board member, Thomas R. Reeg, and its Senior Vice President of Regional Operations, Gene Carano. In addition, Gary L. Carano also serves as the Vice President of REI and Gene Carano also serves as the Secretary and Treasurer of REI. Members of the Carano Family, including Gary L. Carano and Gene Carano, own the equity interests in REI. As such, the Carano Family has the ability to significantly influence the affairs of the Company. Donald L. Carano, who was formerly the president and a director of REI, received remuneration in the amount of $0.3 million, $0.4 million and $0.4 million in 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively, for his service to ERI and its subsidiaries. For each of the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, there were no related party transactions between the Company and the Carano Family other than compensation, including salary and equity incentives and the CSY Lease listed below.

Hotel Casino Management

Prior to November 2017, Hotel Casino Management, Inc., which is beneficially owned by members of the Poncia family, including Raymond J. Poncia, owned more than 5% of the outstanding common stock of the Company. Raymond J. Poncia received remuneration in the amount of $0.2 million in each of 2017, 2016 and 2015 for services that he provided to ERI and its subsidiaries.

C. S. & Y.

The Company owns the entire parcel on which Eldorado Reno is located, except for approximately 30,000 square feet which is leased from C. S. & Y. Associates which is an entity partially owned by REI (the “CSY Lease”). The CSY Lease expires on June 30, 2027. Annual rent is equal to the greater of (1) $0.4 million or (2) an amount based on a decreasing percentage of the Eldorado’s gross gaming revenues ranging from 3% of the first $6.5 million of gross gaming revenues to 0.1% of gross gaming revenues in excess of $75.0 million. Rent pursuant to the CSY Lease amounted to $0.6 million in each of the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015. All amounts on the accompanying balance sheets under “Due to Affiliates” relate to C. S. & Y. Associates.

Hampton Inn & Suites

The Company holds a 42.1% variable interest in a partnership with other investors that developed a new 118-room Hampton Inn & Suites hotel at Scioto Downs that opened in March 2017.



SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the termsrequirements of Sections 13 or 15(d) of the partnership agreement,Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Company contributed $1.0 million of cash and 2.4 acres of a leasehold immediately adjacentregistrant has duly caused this report to The Brew Brothers microbrewery and restaurant at Scioto Downs. The partnership constructedbe signed on its behalf by the hotel at a cost of $16.0 million and other investor members operate the hotel. In November 2017, the Company contributed $0.6 millionundersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
By:/s/ Thomas R. Reeg
Dated: February 20, 2024
Thomas R. Reeg
Chief Executive Officer
Pursuant to the partnership for its proportionate sharerequirements of additional construction costs pursuant to the partnership agreement. AsSecurities Exchange Act of December 31, 2017,1934, this report has been signed below by the Company’s receivable fromfollowing persons on behalf of the partnership totaled $0.2 millionregistrant and is reflectedin the capacities and on the accompanying balance sheet under “Due from Affiliates.”


Note 18. Segment Information

The following table sets forth, for the period indicated, certain operating data for our reportable segments. The executive decision maker of our Company reviews operating results, assesses performance and makes decisions on a “significant market” basis. Management views each of our casinos as an operating segment. Operating segments are aggregated based on their similar economic characteristics, types of customers, types of services and products provided, and their management and reporting structure. Prior to the Isle Acquisition, the Company’s principal operating activities occurred in three geographic regions: Nevada, Louisiana and parts of the eastern United States. The Company aggregated its operations into three reportable segments based on the similar characteristics of the operating segments within the regions in which they operated as follows:

Segment

Property

State

Nevada

Eldorado Reno

Nevada

Silver Legacy

Nevada

Circus Reno

Nevada

Louisiana

Eldorado Shreveport

Louisiana

Eastern

Presque Isle Downs

Pennsylvania

Scioto Downs

Ohio

Mountaineer

West Virginia

Following the Isle Acquisition, the Company’s principal operating activities expanded and now occur in four geographic regions and reportable segments based on the similar characteristics of the operating segments within the regions in which they operate. The following table summarizes our current segments:

Segment

Property

State

West

Eldorado Reno

Nevada

Silver Legacy

Nevada

Circus Reno

Nevada

Isle Black Hawk

Colorado

Lady Luck Black Hawk

Colorado

Midwest

Waterloo

Iowa

Bettendorf

Iowa

Boonville

Missouri

Cape Girardeau

Missouri

Caruthersville

Missouri

Kansas City

Missouri

South

Pompano

Florida

Eldorado Shreveport

Louisiana

Lake Charles

Louisiana

Lula

Mississippi

Vicksburg

Mississippi

East

Presque Isle Downs

Pennsylvania

Nemacolin

Pennsylvania

Scioto Downs

Ohio

Mountaineer

West Virginia


The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, certain operating data for our four reportable segments. Amounts related to pre-acquisition periods (prior to May 1, 2017) conform to prior presentation as the additional operating segments associated with the Isle Acquisition are incremental to the previously disclosed reportable segments.

 

 

For the year ended December 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

Revenues and expenses

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

West:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net operating revenues

 

$

 

405,202

 

 

$

 

321,922

 

 

$

 

127,802

 

Operating income—West

 

$

 

66,329

 

 

$

 

41,620

 

 

$

 

13,989

 

Midwest:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net operating revenues

 

$

 

268,385

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

 

Operating income—Midwest

 

$

 

62,051

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

 

South:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net operating revenues

 

$

 

336,709

 

 

$

 

131,496

 

 

$

 

136,342

 

Operating income—South

 

$

 

3,671

 

 

$

 

23,378

 

 

$

 

21,423

 

East:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net operating revenues

 

$

 

462,702

 

 

$

 

439,478

 

 

$

 

455,640

 

Operating income—East

 

$

 

67,968

 

 

$

 

53,610

 

 

$

 

56,491

 

Corporate:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net revenues

 

$

 

506

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

 

Operating loss—Corporate

 

$

 

(105,150

)

 

$

 

(29,490

)

 

$

 

(19,387

)

Total Reportable Segments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net operating revenues

 

$

 

1,473,504

 

 

$

 

892,896

 

 

$

 

719,784

 

Operating income – Total Reportable Segments

 

$

 

94,869

 

 

$

 

89,118

 

 

$

 

72,516

 

Reconciliations to Consolidated Net Income:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating Income — Total Reportable Segments

 

$

 

94,869

 

 

$

 

89,118

 

 

$

 

72,516

 

Unallocated income and expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest expense, net

 

 

 

(99,769

)

 

 

 

(50,917

)

 

 

 

(61,558

)

Gain on valuation of unconsolidated affiliate

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

35,582

 

Loss on early retirement of debt

 

 

 

(38,430

)

 

 

 

(155

)

 

 

 

(1,937

)

Benefit (provision) for income taxes

 

 

 

117,270

 

 

 

 

(13,244

)

 

 

 

69,580

 

Net income

 

$

 

73,940

 

 

$

 

24,802

 

 

$

 

114,183

 

 

 

For the Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

Capital Expenditures (a)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

West

 

$

 

44,952

 

 

$

 

22,812

 

 

$

 

4,682

 

Midwest

 

 

 

9,115

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

South

 

 

 

7,672

 

 

 

 

5,842

 

 

 

 

4,032

 

East (a)

 

 

 

10,155

 

 

 

 

18,491

 

 

 

 

26,556

 

Corporate

 

 

 

11,628

 

 

 

 

235

 

 

 

 

1,492

 

Total

 

$

 

83,522

 

 

$

 

47,380

 

 

$

 

36,762

 

(a)

Before reimbursements from the state of West Virginia for qualified capital expenditures of $0.4 million, $4.2 million and $1.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.


 

 

West

 

 

Midwest

 

 

South

 

 

East

 

 

Corporate, Other & Eliminations

 

 

Total

 

Balance sheet as of December 31, 2017

(in thousands)

 

Total assets

 

$

 

1,278,062

 

 

$

 

1,188,758

 

 

$

 

804,318

 

 

$

 

1,185,806

 

 

$

 

(910,472

)

 

$

 

3,546,472

 

Goodwill

 

 

 

152,775

 

 

 

 

327,088

 

 

 

 

200,417

 

 

 

 

66,826

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

747,106

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance sheet as of December 31, 2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total assets

 

$

 

377,688

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

128,427

 

 

$

 

850,904

 

 

$

 

(62,975

)

 

$

 

1,294,044

 

Goodwill

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

66,826

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

66,826

 

 

 

 

2017

 

 

 

 

 

Balance at

January 1

 

 

 

Acquisitions

 

 

 

Impairments

 

 

 

Balance at

December 31

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

Goodwill by reportable segment:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

West

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

152,775

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

152,775

 

 

Midwest

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

327,088

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

327,088

 

 

South

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

235,333

 

 

 

 

(34,916

)

 

 

 

200,417

 

 

East

 

 

 

66,826

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

66,826

 

 

 

 

$

 

66,826

 

 

$

 

715,196

 

 

$

 

(34,916

)

 

$

 

747,106

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2016

 

 

 

 

 

Balance at

January 1

 

 

 

Acquisitions

 

 

 

Impairments

 

 

 

Balance at

December 31

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

Goodwill by reportable segment:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

West

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

Midwest

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

South

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

East

 

 

 

66,826

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

66,826

 

 

 

 

$

 

66,826

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

66,826

 

 

Note 19. Consolidating Condensed Financial Information

Certain of our wholly-owned subsidiaries have fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a joint and several basis, the payment of all obligations under our 7% Senior Notes, 6% Senior Notes and New Credit Facility.

The following wholly-owned subsidiaries of the Company are guarantors, on a joint and several basis, under the 7% Senior Notes, 6% Senior Notes and New Credit Facility: Isle of Capri Casinos LLC; Eldorado Holdco LLC; Eldorado Resorts LLC; Eldorado Shreveport 1 LLC; Eldorado Shreveport 2 LLC; Eldorado Casino Shreveport Joint Venture; MTR Gaming Group Inc.; Mountaineer Park Inc.; Presque Isle Downs Inc.; Scioto Downs Inc.; Eldorado Limited Liability Company; Circus and Eldorado Joint Venture, LLC; CC Reno LLC; CCR Newco LLC; Black Hawk Holdings, L.L.C.; IC Holdings Colorado, Inc.; CCSC/Blackhawk, Inc.; IOC-Black Hawk Distribution Company, LLC; IOC-Black Hawk County, Inc.; Isle of Capri Bettendorf, L.C.; PPI, Inc.; Pompano Park Holdings LLC; IOC-Lula, Inc.; IOC-Kansas City, Inc.; IOC-Boonville, Inc.; IOC-Caruthersville, LLC; IOC Cape Girardeau, LLC; IOC-Vicksburg, Inc.; IOC-Vicksburg, L.L.C.; Rainbow Casino-Vicksburg Partnership, L.P.; IOC Holdings L.L.C. and St. Charles Gaming Company, L.L.C. Each of the subsidiaries’ guarantees is joint and several with the guarantees of the other subsidiaries.


The consolidating condensed balance sheet as of December 31, 2017 is as follows:

Balance Sheet

 

Eldorado

Resorts, Inc.

(Parent Obligor)

 

 

Guarantor

Subsidiaries

 

 

Non-Guarantor

Subsidiaries

 

 

Consolidating

and Eliminating

Entries

 

 

Eldorado

Resorts, Inc.

Consolidated

 

Current assets

 

$

 

27,572

 

 

$

 

201,321

 

 

$

 

22,139

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

251,032

 

Intercompany receivables

 

 

 

274,147

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

34,493

 

 

 

 

(308,640

)

 

 

 

 

Investments in subsidiaries

 

 

 

2,440,816

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(2,440,816

)

 

 

 

 

Property and equipment, net

 

 

 

12,042

 

 

 

 

1,483,473

 

 

 

 

7,302

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,502,817

 

Other assets

 

 

 

37,459

 

 

 

 

1,764,291

 

 

 

 

27,282

 

 

 

 

(36,409

)

 

 

 

1,792,623

 

Total assets

 

$

 

2,792,036

 

 

$

 

3,449,085

 

 

$

 

91,216

 

 

$

 

(2,785,865

)

 

$

 

3,546,472

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities

 

$

 

28,677

 

 

$

 

164,656

 

 

$

 

25,726

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

219,059

 

Intercompany payables

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

308,640

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(308,640

)

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt, less current maturities

 

 

 

1,814,185

 

 

 

 

350,000

 

 

 

 

25,393

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2,189,578

 

Deferred income tax liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

200,539

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(36,409

)

 

 

 

164,130

 

Other accrued liabilities

 

 

 

4,127

 

 

 

 

19,624

 

 

 

 

4,828

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

28,579

 

Stockholders’ equity

 

 

 

945,047

 

 

 

 

2,405,626

 

 

 

 

35,269

 

 

 

 

(2,440,816

)

 

 

 

945,126

 

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

 

$

 

2,792,036

 

 

$

 

3,449,085

 

 

$

 

91,216

 

 

$

 

(2,785,865

)

 

$

 

3,546,472

 

The consolidating condensed balance sheet as of December 31, 2016 is as follows:

Balance Sheet

 

Eldorado

Resorts, Inc.

(Parent Obligor)

 

 

Guarantor

Subsidiaries

 

 

Non-Guarantor

Subsidiaries

 

 

Consolidating

and Eliminating

Entries

 

 

Eldorado

Resorts, Inc.

Consolidated

 

Current assets

 

$

 

1,860

 

 

$

 

99,494

 

 

$

 

399

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

101,753

 

Intercompany receivables

 

 

 

371,765

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,186

 

 

 

 

(372,951

)

 

 

 

 

Investments in subsidiaries

 

 

 

299,705

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(299,705

)

 

 

 

 

Property and equipment, net

 

 

 

1,965

 

 

 

 

610,377

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

612,342

 

Other assets

 

 

 

55,158

 

 

 

 

572,448

 

 

 

 

11

 

 

 

 

(47,668

)

 

 

 

579,949

 

Total assets

 

$

 

730,453

 

 

$

 

1,282,319

 

 

$

 

1,596

 

 

$

 

(720,324

)

 

$

 

1,294,044

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities

 

$

 

11,381

 

 

$

 

90,643

 

 

$

 

16

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

102,040

 

Intercompany payables

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

372,951

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(372,951

)

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt, less current maturities

 

 

 

420,633

 

 

 

 

375,248

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

795,881

 

Deferred income tax liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

138,053

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(47,668

)

 

 

 

90,385

 

Other accrued liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7,287

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7,287

 

Stockholders’ equity

 

 

 

298,439

 

 

 

 

298,137

 

 

 

 

1,580

 

 

 

 

(299,705

)

 

 

 

298,451

 

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

 

$

 

730,453

 

 

$

 

1,282,319

 

 

$

 

1,596

 

 

$

 

(720,324

)

 

$

 

1,294,044

 


The consolidating condensed statements of income for the year ended December 31, 2017 is as follows:

Statements of Income:

 

 

Eldorado

Resorts, Inc.

(Parent Obligor)

 

 

Guarantor

Subsidiaries

 

 

Non-Guarantor

Subsidiaries

 

 

Consolidating

and Eliminating

Entries

 

 

Eldorado

Resorts, Inc.

Consolidated

 

Revenues:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gaming and pari-mutuel

   commissions

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

1,219,367

 

 

$

 

23,307

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

1,242,674

 

Non-gaming

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

356,236

 

 

 

 

7,679

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

363,915

 

Gross revenues

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,575,603

 

 

 

 

30,986

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,606,589

 

Less promotional allowances

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(131,694

)

 

 

 

(1,391

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(133,085

)

Net revenues

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,443,909

 

 

 

 

29,595

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,473,504

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gaming and pari-mutuel

   commissions

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

635,552

 

 

 

 

16,319

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

651,871

 

Non-gaming

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

154,030

 

 

 

 

1,005

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

155,035

 

Marketing and promotions

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

80,267

 

 

 

 

2,258

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

82,525

 

General and administrative

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

235,963

 

 

 

 

5,132

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

241,095

 

Corporate

 

 

 

31,620

 

 

 

 

(4,318

)

 

 

 

3,437

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

30,739

 

Impairment charges

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

38,016

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

38,016

 

Management fee

 

 

 

(31,620

)

 

 

 

31,620

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

 

 

1,030

 

 

 

 

104,454

 

 

 

 

407

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

105,891

 

Total operating expenses

 

 

 

1,030

 

 

 

 

1,275,584

 

 

 

 

28,558

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,305,172

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss on sale of asset or disposal of

   property and equipment

 

 

 

(20

)

 

 

 

(299

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(319

)

Proceeds from terminated sale

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

20,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

20,000

 

Transaction expenses

 

 

 

(70,865

)

 

 

 

(21,912

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(92,777

)

Equity in loss of unconsolidated

   affiliate

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(367

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(367

)

Operating (loss) income

 

 

 

(71,915

)

 

 

 

165,747

 

 

 

 

1,037

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

94,869

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest expense, net

 

 

 

(73,448

)

 

 

 

(25,221

)

 

 

 

(1,100

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(99,769

)

Loss on early retirement of debt, net

 

 

 

(38,430

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(38,430

)

Subsidiary income (loss)

 

 

 

205,811

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(205,811

)

 

 

 

 

(Loss) income before income

   taxes

 

 

 

22,018

 

 

 

 

140,526

 

 

 

 

(63

)

 

 

 

(205,811

)

 

 

 

(43,330

)

Income tax benefit (provision)

 

 

 

51,922

 

 

 

 

70,288

 

 

 

 

(4,940

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

117,270

 

Net income (loss)

 

$

 

73,940

 

 

$

 

210,814

 

 

$

 

(5,003

)

 

$

 

(205,811

)

 

$

 

73,940

 


The consolidating condensed statements of income for the year ended December 31, 2016 is as follows:

Statements of Income:

 

 

Eldorado

Resorts, Inc.

(Parent Obligor)

 

 

Guarantor

Subsidiaries

 

 

Non-Guarantor

Subsidiaries

 

 

Consolidating

and Eliminating

Entries

 

 

Eldorado

Resorts, Inc.

Consolidated

 

Revenues:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gaming and pari-mutuel

   commissions

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

701,348

 

 

$

 

265

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

701,613

 

Non-gaming

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

281,493

 

 

 

 

90

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

281,583

 

Gross revenues

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

982,841

 

 

 

 

355

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

983,196

 

Less promotional allowances

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(90,300

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(90,300

)

Net revenues

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

892,541

 

 

 

 

355

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

892,896

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gaming and pari-mutuel

   commissions

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

400,112

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

400,112

 

Non-gaming

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

139,545

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

139,545

 

Marketing and promotions

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

40,596

 

 

 

 

4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

40,600

 

General and administrative

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

130,172

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

130,172

 

Corporate

 

 

 

19,560

 

 

 

 

320

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

19,880

 

Management fee

 

 

 

(19,841

)

 

 

 

19,841

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

 

 

454

 

 

 

 

62,995

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

63,449

 

Total operating expenses

 

 

 

173

 

 

 

 

793,581

 

 

 

 

4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

793,758

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss on sale of asset or disposal of

   property and equipment

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(836

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(836

)

Transaction expenses

 

 

 

(9,184

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(9,184

)

Operating (loss) income

 

 

 

(9,357

)

 

 

 

98,124

 

 

 

 

351

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

89,118

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest expense, net

 

 

 

(24,562

)

 

 

 

(26,355

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(50,917

)

Loss on early retirement of debt, net

 

 

 

(155

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(155

)

Subsidiary income (loss)

 

 

 

45,647

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(45,647

)

 

 

 

 

Income (loss) before income

   taxes

 

 

 

11,573

 

 

 

 

71,769

 

 

 

 

351

 

 

 

 

(45,647

)

 

 

 

38,046

 

Income tax benefit (provision)

 

 

 

13,229

 

 

 

 

(26,350

)

 

 

 

(123

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(13,244

)

Net income (loss)

 

$

 

24,802

 

 

$

 

45,419

 

 

$

 

228

 

 

$

 

(45,647

)

 

$

 

24,802

 


The consolidating condensed statements of income for the year ended December 31, 2015 is as follows:

Statements of Income:

 

 

Eldorado

Resorts, Inc.

(Parent Obligor)

 

 

Guarantor

Subsidiaries

 

 

Non-Guarantor

Subsidiaries

 

 

Consolidating

and Eliminating

Entries

 

 

Eldorado

Resorts, Inc.

Consolidated

 

Revenues:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gaming and pari-mutuel

   commissions

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

622,997

 

 

$

 

261

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

623,258

 

Non-gaming

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

161,283

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

161,283

 

Gross revenues

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

784,280

 

 

 

 

261

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

784,541

 

Less promotional allowances

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(64,757

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(64,757

)

Net revenues

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

719,523

 

 

 

 

261

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

719,784

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gaming and pari-mutuel

   commissions

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

367,545

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

367,545

 

Non-gaming

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

79,238

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

79,238

 

Marketing and promotions

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

31,220

 

 

 

 

7

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

31,227

 

General and administrative

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

96,870

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

96,870

 

Corporate

 

 

 

13,738

 

 

 

 

2,731

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

16,469

 

Management fee

 

 

 

(13,760

)

 

 

 

13,760

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

 

 

369

 

 

 

 

56,552

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

56,921

 

Total operating expenses

 

 

 

347

 

 

 

 

647,916

 

 

 

 

7

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

648,270

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss on sale of asset or disposal of

   property and equipment

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(6

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(6

)

Transaction expenses

 

 

 

(2,368

)

 

 

 

(84

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(2,452

)

Equity in loss of unconsolidated

   affiliate

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3,460

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3,460

 

Operating (loss) income

 

 

 

(2,715

)

 

 

 

74,977

 

 

 

 

254

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

72,516

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest expense, net

 

 

 

(10,613

)

 

 

 

(50,945

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(61,558

)

Loss on early retirement of debt, net

 

 

 

(1,855

)

 

 

 

(82

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1,937

)

Gain on valuation of unconsolidated

  affiliate

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

35,582

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

35,582

 

Subsidiary income (loss)

 

 

 

86,082

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(86,082

)

 

 

 

 

Income (loss) before income

   taxes

 

 

 

70,899

 

 

 

 

59,532

 

 

 

 

254

 

 

 

 

(86,082

)

 

 

 

44,603

 

Income tax benefit

 

 

 

43,284

 

 

 

 

26,371

 

 

 

 

(75

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

69,580

 

Income (loss) from continuing

  operations

 

 

 

114,183

 

 

 

 

85,903

 

 

 

 

179

 

 

 

 

(86,082

)

 

 

 

114,183

 

Net income (loss)

 

$

 

114,183

 

 

$

 

85,903

 

 

$

 

179

 

 

$

 

(86,082

)

 

$

 

114,183

 


The consolidating condensed statement of cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2017 is as follows:

Statement of Cash Flows

 

 

Eldorado

Resorts, Inc.

(Parent Obligor)

 

 

Guarantor

Subsidiaries

 

 

Non-Guarantor

Subsidiaries

 

 

Consolidating

and Eliminating

Entries

 

 

Eldorado

Resorts, Inc.

Consolidated

 

Net cash (used in) provided by

   operating activities

 

$

 

(44,767

)

 

$

 

170,553

 

 

$

 

4,455

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

130,241

 

INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Purchase of property and equipment, net

 

 

 

(11,073

)

 

 

 

(70,810

)

 

 

 

(1,639

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(83,522

)

Reimbursement of capital expenditures

  from West Virginia regulatory authorities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

361

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

361

 

Restricted cash

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

19,535

 

 

 

 

(21

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

19,514

 

Proceeds from sale of property and equipment

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

135

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

135

 

Net cash (used in) provided by business

   combinations

 

 

 

(1,385,978

)

 

 

 

37,103

 

 

 

 

5,216

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1,343,659

)

Investment in and loans to unconsolidated

   affiliate

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(604

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(604

)

Net cash (used in) provided by investing

  activities

 

 

 

(1,397,051

)

 

 

 

(14,280

)

 

 

 

3,556

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1,407,775

)

FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from issuance of New Term Loan

 

 

 

1,450,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,450,000

 

Proceeds from issuance of 6% Senior Notes

 

 

 

875,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

875,000

 

Proceeds from issuance of New Revolving

   Credit Facility

 

 

 

166,953

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

166,953

 

Payments on Term Loan

 

 

 

(1,062

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1,062

)

Payments on New Term Loan

 

 

 

(493,250

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(493,250

)

Payments under New Revolving Credit

  Facility

 

 

 

(166,953

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(166,953

)

Borrowings under Prior Revolving Credit

   Facility

 

 

 

41,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

41,000

 

Payments under Prior Revolving Credit

   Facility

 

 

 

(29,000

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(29,000

)

Retirement of Term Loan

 

 

 

(417,563

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(417,563

)

Retirement of Prior Revolving Credit Facility

 

 

 

(41,000

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(41,000

)

Debt premium proceeds

 

 

 

27,500

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

27,500

 

Net proceeds from (payments to) related

  parties

 

 

 

102,618

 

 

 

 

(100,847

)

 

 

 

(1,771

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Payment of other long-term obligation

 

 

 

(43

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(43

)

Payments on capital leases

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(318

)

 

 

 

(172

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(490

)

Debt issuance costs

 

 

 

(51,526

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(51,526

)

Taxes paid related to net share settlement

   of equity awards

 

 

 

(11,365

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(11,365

)

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

 

 

 

2,900

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2,900

 

Net cash provided by (used in)

   financing activities

 

 

 

1,454,209

 

 

 

 

(101,165

)

 

 

 

(1,943

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,351,101

 

INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH

  EQUIVALENTS

 

 

 

12,391

 

 

 

 

55,108

 

 

 

 

6,068

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

73,567

 

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS,

   BEGINNING OF YEAR

 

 

 

811

 

 

 

 

59,817

 

 

 

 

401

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

61,029

 

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS,

   END OF YEAR

 

$

 

13,202

 

 

$

 

114,925

 

 

$

 

6,469

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

134,596

 


The consolidating condensed statement of cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2016 is as follows:

Statement of Cash Flows

 

 

Eldorado

Resorts, Inc.

(Parent Obligor)

 

 

Guarantor

Subsidiaries

 

 

Non-Guarantor

Subsidiaries

 

 

Consolidating

and Eliminating

Entries

 

 

Eldorado

Resorts, Inc.

Consolidated

 

Net cash (used in) provided by

   operating activities

 

$

 

(16,919

)

 

$

 

114,388

 

 

$

 

101

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

97,570

 

INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Purchase of property and equipment, net

 

 

 

133

 

 

 

 

(47,512

)

 

 

 

(1

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(47,380

)

Reimbursement of capital expenditures

   from West Virginia regulatory authorities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4,207

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4,207

 

Proceeds from sale of property and

   equipment

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,560

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,560

 

(Increase) Decrease in other assets, net

 

 

 

(16

)

 

 

 

675

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

659

 

Net cash used in business combinations

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(194

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(194

)

Net cash provided by (used in)

   investing activities

 

 

 

117

 

 

 

 

(41,264

)

 

 

 

(1

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(41,148

)

FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from long-term debt borrowings

 

 

 

(4,250

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(4,250

)

Borrowings under Prior Revolving Credit

   Facility

 

 

 

73,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

73,000

 

Payments under Prior Revolving Credit

   Facility

 

 

 

(137,500

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(137,500

)

Principal payments on capital leases

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(274

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(274

)

Debt issuance costs

 

 

 

(4,288

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(4,288

)

Net proceeds from (payments to)

   related parties

 

 

 

90,353

 

 

 

 

(90,486

)

 

 

 

133

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Taxes paid related to net share settlement

   of equity awards

 

 

 

(744

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(744

)

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

 

 

 

385

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

385

 

Net cash provided by (used in)

   financing activities

 

 

 

16,956

 

 

 

 

(90,760

)

 

 

 

133

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(73,671

)

INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH

   AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

 

 

 

154

 

 

 

 

(17,636

)

 

 

 

233

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(17,249

)

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS,

   BEGINNING OF YEAR

 

 

 

657

 

 

 

 

77,453

 

 

 

 

168

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

78,278

 

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS,

   END OF YEAR

 

$

 

811

 

 

$

 

59,817

 

 

$

 

401

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

61,029

 


The consolidating condensed statement of cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2015 is as follows:

Statement of Cash Flows

 

 

Eldorado

Resorts, Inc.

(Parent Obligor)

 

 

Guarantor

Subsidiaries

 

 

Non-Guarantor

Subsidiaries

 

 

Consolidating

and Eliminating

Entries

 

 

Eldorado

Resorts, Inc.

Consolidated

 

Net cash (used in) provided by

   operating activities

 

$

 

(2,951

)

 

$

 

59,494

 

 

$

 

172

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

56,715

 

INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Purchase of property and equipment, net

 

 

 

(2,922

)

 

 

 

(33,840

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(36,762

)

Reimbursement of capital expenditures

   from West Virginia regulatory authorities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,266

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,266

 

Investment in unconsolidated affiliate

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1,010

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1,010

)

Proceeds from sale of property and

   equipment

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

153

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

153

 

Decrease in restricted cash due to credit

   support deposit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2,500

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2,500

 

(Increase) Decrease in other assets, net

 

 

 

(89

)

 

 

 

204

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

115

 

Net cash used in business

   combinations

 

 

 

(18,394

)

 

 

 

(106,622

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(125,016

)

Net cash used in by

   investing activities

 

 

 

(21,405

)

 

 

 

(137,349

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(158,754

)

FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from long-term debt borrowings

 

 

 

800,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

800,000

 

Borrowings under Prior Revolving Credit

   Facility

 

 

 

131,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

131,000

 

Payments under Prior Revolving Credit

   Facility

 

 

 

(37,500

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(37,500

)

Principal payments under 7% Senior Notes

 

 

 

(2,125

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(2,125

)

Retirement of long-term debt

 

 

 

(728,664

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(728,664

)

Principal payments on capital leases

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(88

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(88

)

Debt issuance costs

 

 

 

(25,820

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(25,820

)

Call premium on early retirement of debt

 

 

 

(44,090

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(44,090

)

Net (payments to) proceeds from

   related parties

 

 

 

(67,788

)

 

 

 

68,511

 

 

 

 

(723

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash provided by (used in)

   financing activities

 

 

 

25,013

 

 

 

 

68,423

 

 

 

 

(723

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

92,713

 

INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH

   AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

 

 

 

657

 

 

 

 

(9,432

)

 

 

 

(551

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(9,326

)

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS,

   BEGINNING OF YEAR

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

86,885

 

 

 

 

719

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

87,604

 

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS,

   END OF YEAR

 

$

 

657

 

 

$

 

77,453

 

 

$

 

168

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

78,278

 


Note 20. Quarterly Data (Unaudited)

The following table sets forth certain consolidated quarterly financial information for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015. The quarterly information only includes the operations of Isle from the Isle Acquisition Date through December 31, 2017 and the operations of Silver Legacy and Circus Reno from the Reno Acquisition Date through December 31, 2017.

 

 

Quarter Ended

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

June 30,

 

 

September 30,

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

2017:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues

 

$

 

219,752

 

 

$

 

406,840

 

 

$

 

512,530

 

 

$

 

467,467

 

Less—promotional allowances

 

 

 

(18,827

)

 

 

 

(33,226

)

 

 

 

(41,785

)

 

 

 

(39,247

)

Net revenues

 

 

 

200,925

 

 

 

 

373,614

 

 

 

 

470,745

 

 

 

 

428,220

 

Operating expenses

 

 

 

184,972

 

 

 

 

318,635

 

 

 

 

387,267

 

 

 

 

414,298

 

Operating income (loss)

 

 

 

14,149

 

 

 

 

(30,632

)

 

 

 

81,365

 

 

 

 

29,987

 

Net income (loss)

 

$

 

1,021

 

 

$

 

(46,328

)

 

$

 

29,554

 

 

$

 

89,693

 

Basic net income (loss) per common share

 

$

 

0.02

 

 

$

 

(0.69

)

 

$

 

0.38

 

 

$

 

1.17

 

Diluted net income (loss) per common share

 

$

 

0.02

 

 

$

 

(0.68

)

 

$

 

0.38

 

 

$

 

1.15

 

Weighted average shares outstanding—basic

 

 

 

47,120,751

 

 

 

 

67,453,095

 

 

 

 

76,902,070

 

 

 

 

76,961,015

 

Weighted average shares outstanding—diluted

 

 

 

48,081,281

 

 

 

 

68,469,191

 

 

 

 

77,959,689

 

 

 

 

77,998,742

 

 

 

Quarter Ended

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

June 30,

 

 

September 30,

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

2016:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues

 

$

 

234,551

 

 

$

 

255,010

 

 

$

 

266,256

 

 

$

 

227,379

 

Less—promotional allowances

 

 

 

(20,985

)

 

 

 

(23,695

)

 

 

 

(24,691

)

 

 

 

(20,929

)

Net revenues

 

 

 

213,566

 

 

 

 

231,315

 

 

 

 

241,565

 

 

 

 

206,450

 

Operating expenses

 

 

 

194,854

 

 

 

 

200,768

 

 

 

 

208,731

 

 

 

 

189,405

 

Operating income

 

 

 

18,263

 

 

 

 

29,655

 

 

 

 

28,109

 

 

 

 

13,091

 

Net income

 

$

 

3,370

 

 

$

 

10,791

 

 

$

 

9,682

 

 

$

 

959

 

Basic net income per common share

 

$

 

0.07

 

 

$

 

0.23

 

 

$

 

0.21

 

 

$

 

0.02

 

Diluted net income per common share

 

$

 

0.07

 

 

$

 

0.23

 

 

$

 

0.20

 

 

$

 

0.02

 

Weighted average shares outstanding—basic

 

 

 

46,933,094

 

 

 

 

47,071,608

 

 

 

 

47,193,120

 

 

 

 

47,105,744

 

Weighted average shares outstanding—diluted

 

 

 

47,534,761

 

 

 

 

47,721,075

 

 

 

 

47,834,644

 

 

 

 

47,849,554

 

 

 

Quarter Ended

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

June 30,

 

 

September 30,

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

2015:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues

 

$

 

182,809

 

 

$

 

198,356

 

 

$

 

199,536

 

 

$

 

203,840

 

Less—promotional allowances

 

 

 

(15,358

)

 

 

 

(15,723

)

 

 

 

(15,996

)

 

 

 

(17,680

)

Net revenues

 

 

 

167,451

 

 

 

 

182,633

 

 

 

 

183,540

 

 

 

 

186,160

 

Operating expenses

 

 

 

154,766

 

 

 

 

160,430

 

 

 

 

161,610

 

 

 

 

171,464

 

Operating income

 

 

 

12,084

 

 

 

 

23,059

 

 

 

 

24,092

 

 

 

 

13,281

 

Net (loss) income

 

$

 

(6,164

)

 

$

 

4,795

 

 

$

 

5,399

 

 

$

 

110,153

 

Basic net (loss) income per common share

 

$

 

(0.13

)

 

$

 

0.10

 

 

$

 

0.12

 

 

$

 

2.36

 

Diluted net (loss) income per common share

 

$

 

(0.13

)

 

$

 

0.10

 

 

$

 

0.12

 

 

$

 

2.33

 

Weighted average shares outstanding—basic

 

 

 

46,494,638

 

 

 

 

46,516,614

 

 

 

 

46,516,614

 

 

 

 

46,670,735

 

Weighted average shares outstanding—diluted

 

 

 

46,494,638

 

 

 

 

46,657,618

 

 

 

 

46,763,589

 

 

 

 

47,227,127

 


ELDORADO RESORTS, INC.

SCHEDULE II—VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS

Column A

 

Column B

Balance at

Beginning of Period

 

 

 

Column C

Isle of Capri Acquisition

 

 

Column D Additions(1)

 

 

Column E Deductions(2)

 

 

Column F

Balance at End

of Period

 

Year ended December 31, 2017:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Allowance for doubtful accounts

 

$

 

1,221

 

 

$

 

461

 

 

$

 

531

 

 

$

 

993

 

 

$

 

1,220

 

Year ended December 31, 2016:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Allowance for doubtful accounts

 

$

 

2,074

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

161

 

 

$

 

1,014

 

 

$

 

1,221

 

Year ended December 31, 2015:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Allowance for doubtful accounts

 

$

 

2,589

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

(18

)

 

$

 

497

 

 

$

 

2,074

 

(1)

Amounts charged to costs and expenses, net of recoveries.

dates indicated.

(2)

Signature

Uncollectible accounts written off, net

TitleDate
/s/ Thomas R. ReegChief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) and DirectorFebruary 20, 2024
Thomas R. Reeg
/s/ Bret YunkerChief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)February 20, 2024
Bret Yunker
/s/ Stephanie D. LeporiChief Administrative and Accounting Officer (Principal Accounting Officer)February 20, 2024
Stephanie D. Lepori
/s/ Gary L. CaranoExecutive Chairman of recoveries of $0.7 million and $0.9 million in 2017 and 2015, respectively. There were no recoveries in 2016.

the Board
February 20, 2024
Gary L. Carano
/s/ Bonnie BiumiDirectorFebruary 20, 2024
Bonnie Biumi
/s/ Jan Jones BlackhurstDirectorFebruary 20, 2024
Jan Jones Blackhurst
/s/ Frank J. Fahrenkopf Jr.DirectorFebruary 20, 2024
Frank J. Fahrenkopf Jr.
/s/ Don KornsteinDirectorFebruary 20, 2024
Don Kornstein
/s/ Courtney MatherDirectorFebruary 20, 2024
Courtney Mather
/s/ Michael E. PegramDirectorFebruary 20, 2024
Michael E. Pegram
/s/ David P. TomickDirectorFebruary 20, 2024
David P. Tomick

116