MGM Resorts Overcoming Short Term Pain for Long Term Gain

Third quarter results at MGM Resorts International (MGM) were above expectations, largely due to a boost from two massively popular boxing events during the prior three months. MGM also benefited from slightly above average luck on gaming profits. The strong results were offset by disappointing guidance for the fourth quarter after MGM experienced elevated reservation […]

Continuous Improvement Underway at MGM Resorts

MGM Resorts (MGM) reported strong 2Q17 results with better than expected profitability. Management executed well against long term plans to continuously improve profit margins, overcoming a self-imposed headwind from lower hotel room revenue and a slightly unlucky quarter at the casino tables. The investment thesis remains on track with several catalysts expected to drive shares […]

Back on Track at MGM Resorts

As expected, MGM Resorts (MGM) bounced back with a strong quarter in 1Q17 after reporting disappointing 4Q16 results. As described in our 4Q16 update, the miss was largely driven by the shift in timing of Jewish holidays compounded by management’s miscommunication of the anticipated impact to their convention business. MGM’s management took responsibility for the […]

Growth Expectations Reset at MGM Resorts

MGM Resorts (MGM) reported disappointing fourth quarter results. The miss was partially self-inflicted; previous guidance from MGM warned about a difficult year-over-year fourth quarter comparison but neglected to mention the potential impact from a shift in the timing of Jewish holidays. A related timing shift by one large convention group impacted fourth quarter EBITDA by […]

MGM Resorts Reports Outstanding Quarter

MGM Resorts (MGM) reported its best quarter in a strong run of growth for the company and upside surprises to Wall Street estimates.  When Northlake bought MGM for clients earlier this year, our investment thesis was based on strong management, unappreciated strength in Las Vegas, upside at soon to open regional gaming properties in the […]

MGM Resorts Executing on Profit Growth Plan

MGM Resorts (MGM) reported a solid quarter with sales coming in slightly below consensus estimates and earnings that beat expectations due to progress on streamlining the business. The company received a meaningful one-time benefit from the sale of The Shops at Crystals, which it owned 50% of through a joint venture in CityCenter. We believe […]

From Video to Casino Games

Northlake is taking partial profits in Activision Blizzard (ATVI) after the shares have doubled since the initial purchase in November 2014.  The outstanding performance of ATVI against minimal change in the broader market led to position sizes up to 2X what Northlake usually targets.  Northlake still likes ATVI and sees upside to the upper $40s […]