ITEM 1.
BUSINESS
A.
Introduction
Churchill Downs Incorporated (the “Company”) is a diversified provider of pari-mutuel horseracing, casino gaming, entertainment, and is the country’s premier source of online account wagering on horseracing events. We offer gaming products through our casinos in Mississippi, our slot and video poker operations in Louisiana and our slot and poker operations in Florida. We were organized as a Kentucky corporation in 1928. Our principal executive offices are located at 600 North Hurstbourne Parkway, Suite 400, Louisville, Kentucky, 40222.
We manage our operations through four operating segments as follows:
1.
Racing Operations, which includes:
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Churchill Downs Racetrack (“Churchill Downs”) in Louisville, Kentucky, an internationally known thoroughbred racing operation and home of the Kentucky Derby since 1875;
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Arlington International Race Course (“Arlington”), a thoroughbred racing operation in Arlington Heights along with ten off-track betting facilities (“OTBs”) in Illinois;
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Calder Race Course (“Calder”), a thoroughbred racing operation in Miami Gardens, Florida; and
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Fair Grounds Race Course (“Fair Grounds”), a thoroughbred racing operation in New Orleans along with twelve OTBs in Louisiana.
2.
Gaming, which includes:
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Riverwalk Casino Hotel ("Riverwalk") in Vicksburg, Mississippi, which we acquired on October 23, 2012. Riverwalk operates approximately 700 slot machines, 18 table games, a five story, 80-room attached hotel, multi-functional event center and dining facilities;
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Harlow’s Casino Resort & Spa (“Harlow’s”) in Greenville, Mississippi, which operates approximately 825 slot machines, 15 table games and a poker room, a five-story, 105-room attached hotel, multi-functional event center, pool, spa and dining facilities;
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Calder Casino, a slot facility in Florida adjacent to Calder, which operates approximately 1,200 slot machines and includes a poker room operation branded “Studz Poker Club”;
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Fair Grounds Slots, a slot facility in Louisiana adjacent to Fair Grounds, which operates approximately 625 slot machines; and
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Video Services, LLC (“VSI”), the owner and operator of approximately 725 video poker machines in Louisiana.
3.
Online Business, which includes:
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TwinSpires, an Advance Deposit Wagering (“ADW”) business that is licensed as a multi-jurisdictional simulcasting and interactive wagering hub in the state of Oregon.
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Fair Grounds Account Wagering (“FAW”), an ADW business that is licensed in the state of Louisiana;
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Velocity, a business that is licensed in the British Dependency Isle of Man focusing on high wagering-volume international customers;
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Luckity, an ADW business launched during October 2012 that offers over 20 unique online games with outcomes based on and determined by pari-mutuel wagers on live horseraces;
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Bloodstock Research Information Services (“BRIS”), a data service provider for the equine industry; and
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Our equity investment in HRTV, LLC (“HRTV”), a horseracing television channel.
4.
Other Investments, which includes:
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United Tote Company and United Tote Canada (collectively “United Tote”), which manufactures and operates pari-mutuel wagering systems for racetracks, OTBs and other pari-mutuel wagering businesses;
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Bluff Media ("Bluff"), a multimedia poker content brand and publishing company, acquired by the Company on February 10, 2012;
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Our equity investment in Miami Valley Gaming & Racing, LLC ("MVG"), a joint venture to develop a harness
racetrack and video lottery terminal facility in Ohio; and
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Our other minor investments.
B.
Acquisition and Development Activity
Riverwalk
On October 23, 2012, we completed our acquisition of Riverwalk Casino Hotel ("Riverwalk") in Vicksburg, Mississippi for cash consideration of approximately $145.6 million. The transaction includes the acquisition of a 25,000-square-foot casino, an 80-room hotel, a 5,600-square-foot event center and dining facilities on approximately 22 acres of land. The acquisition continues our diversification and growth strategies to invest in assets with an expected yield on investment to enhance shareholder value. We financed the acquisition with borrowings under our amended and restated credit facility.
Miami Valley Gaming & Racing Joint Venture
During March 2012, the Company announced an agreement to enter into a 50% joint venture with Delaware North Companies Gaming & Entertainment Inc. (“DNC”) to develop a new harness racetrack and video lottery terminal (“VLT”) gaming facility in Monroe, Ohio.
On December 21, 2012, MVG completed the purchase of the harness racing licenses and certain assets held by Lebanon Trotting Club Inc. and Miami Valley Trotting Inc. for total consideration of $60.0 million, of which $10.0 million was funded at closing with the remainder to be funded through a $50.0 million note payable over a six year term effective upon the commencement of gaming operations. In addition, there is a potential contingent consideration payment of $10.0 million based on the financial performance of the facility during the seven year period after gaming operations commence. Construction began in December 2012 on a new gaming and racing facility located in Monroe, Ohio. The new facility is expected to open during the first quarter of 2014, and will include a 5/8-mile harness racing track and a 186,000-square-foot gaming facility, featuring up to 2,500 VLTs on the 120-acre site. MVG will invest approximately $215 million in the new facility, including the $50 million license fee payable to the Ohio Lottery Commission. During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company funded $19.9 million in initial capital contributions to the joint venture.
Bluff
During February 2012, we completed the acquisition of the assets of Bluff Media ("Bluff"), a multimedia poker content brand and publishing company for cash consideration of $6.7 million and contingent consideration of $2.5 million based on the probability of the enactment of federal or state enabling legislation which permits Internet poker gaming during the five year period after acquisition. Bluff’s assets include the poker periodical, BLUFF Magazine; BLUFF Magazine’s online counterpart, BluffMagazine.com; ThePokerDB, a comprehensive online database and resource that tracks and ranks the performance of poker players and tournaments; and various other news and content forums. In addition, Bluff also publishes Fight! Magazine, a premier mixed martial arts magazine and its online counterpart, FightMagazine.com.
C.
Live Racing
We conduct live horseracing at Churchill Downs, Calder, Fair Grounds and Arlington. The following is a summary of our significant live racing events, a description of our properties and our annual racing calendar.
The Kentucky Derby and the Kentucky Oaks, both held at Churchill Downs, continue to be our premier racing events offering minimum purses of $2.0 million and $1.0 million, respectively. The Kentucky Derby is the first race of the annual series of races for 3-year old thoroughbreds, known as the Triple Crown. Our other significant stakes races include the Summit of Speed at Calder, the Arlington Million at Arlington, and the Louisiana Derby at Fair Grounds, each of which offers purses of approximately $1.0 million.
Churchill Downs
The Churchill Downs racetrack site and improvements (the “Churchill facility”) are located in Louisville, Kentucky. Churchill Downs has conducted thoroughbred racing continuously since 1875 and is internationally known as the home of the Kentucky Derby. The Churchill facility consists of approximately 147 acres of land with a one-mile dirt track, a seven-eighths (7/8) mile turf track, permanent grandstands, luxury suites and a stabling area. The Churchill facility accommodates approximately 55,000 persons in our clubhouse, grandstand, Jockey Club Suites and Finish Line Suites. The facility also includes a simulcast wagering facility designed to accommodate 1,500 persons, a general admissions area, and food and beverage facilities ranging from concessions to full-service restaurants. The Churchill facility also has a saddling paddock, accommodations for groups and special events, parking areas for the public and our racetrack office facilities. The stable area has barns sufficient to accommodate approximately 1,400 horses, a 114-room dormitory and other facilities for backstretch personnel. During 2010, the Churchill facility added permanent lighting in order to accommodate night racing events. Additionally, during January 2013, the facility
opened a new simulcast wagering facility, "The Parlay", designed to accommodate 600 persons, which will be Churchill Downs' simulcast wagering facility during the months outside of its live racing meets and house the track's media operations in the weeks leading up to the Kentucky Derby. The facility is also expected to open a new hospitality venue, "The Mansion", during the second quarter of 2013. The Mansion, located on the sixth floor of the Clubhouse, will be used primarily during the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks. The Mansion will have accommodations for 296 guests and will offer settings in its Dining Room, Living Room, Library, Parlor and Veranda.
To supplement the facilities at Churchill Downs, we provide additional stabling facilities sufficient to accommodate 500 horses and a three-quarter (3/4) mile dirt track, which is used for training thoroughbreds, at a training facility also located in Louisville. Referred to as Trackside Louisville, this facility provides a base of operation for many horsemen between the Spring and Fall meets and enables us to attract new horsemen to race at Churchill Downs. Trackside Louisville is not open to stabling during the winter months.
As part of financing improvements to the Churchill facility, during 2002, we transferred title of the Churchill facility to the City of Louisville, Kentucky and leased back the facility. Subject to the terms of the lease, we can re-acquire the facility at any time for $1.00.
Calder
The Calder racetrack and improvements (the “Calder facility”) are located in Miami-Dade County, Florida. The Calder facility is adjacent to Sun Life Stadium, home of the Miami Dolphins, and consists of approximately 231 acres of land with a one-mile dirt track, a seven-eighths (7/8) mile turf track, a training area with a five-eighths (5/8) mile training track, permanent grandstands and a stabling area. The Calder facility includes clubhouse and grandstand seating for approximately 15,000 persons, a general admissions area and food and beverage facilities ranging from concessions to a buffet dining area. The stable area consists of a receiving barn, feed rooms, tack rooms, detention barns and living quarters and can accommodate approximately 1,800 horses. The Calder facility also features a saddling paddock, parking areas for the public and office facilities.
Fair Grounds
The Fair Grounds racetrack facility, located in New Orleans, Louisiana, consists of approximately 145 acres of land, a one mile dirt track, a seven-eighths (7/8) mile turf track, permanent grandstands and a stabling area. The facility includes clubhouse and grandstand seating for approximately 5,000 persons, a general admissions area and food and beverage facilities ranging from concessions to clubhouse dining. The stable area consists of a receiving barn, feed rooms, tack rooms, detention barns and living quarters that can accommodate 132 persons and approximately 2,000 horses. The Fair Grounds facility also features a saddling paddock, parking areas and office facilities.
Arlington
The Arlington racetrack, located in Arlington Heights, Illinois, was constructed in 1927 and reopened its doors in 1989 after a devastating fire four years earlier. The racetrack sits on 336 acres, has a one and one-eighth (1 1/8) mile synthetic track, a one-mile turf track and a five-eighths (5/8) mile training track. The facility includes a permanent clubhouse, grandstand and suite seating for 6,045 persons and food and beverage facilities ranging from fast food to full-service restaurants. The stable area has 34 barns able to accommodate approximately 2,200 horses and a temporary housing unit that accommodates 288 persons. The Arlington facility also features a saddling paddock, parking areas and office facilities.
Racing Calendar
The following table is a summary of our expected 2013 and actual 2012 live thoroughbred racing dates and the number of live racing days for each of our four racetracks. Racing dates are generally approved annually by the respective state racing authorities:
During 2013, MVG is expected to conduct 52 days of live harness racing.
D.
Simulcast Operations
We generate a significant portion of our pari-mutuel wagering revenues by sending signals of races from our racetracks to other facilities and businesses (“export”) and receiving signals from other racetracks (“import”). Revenues are earned through pari-mutuel wagering on signals that we both import and export.
Arlington conducts on-site simulcast wagering only during live racing meets, while Churchill Downs, Calder and Fair Grounds offer year-round simulcast wagering at the racetracks. The OTBs located in Illinois and Louisiana conduct simulcast wagering year-round.
Off-Track Betting Facilities
Eleven of our OTBs are collectively branded “Trackside” to create a common identity for our OTB operations. Trackside Louisville ceased operating as a simulcast wagering facility during 2013. Historically, Trackside Louisville opened as a simulcasting wagering facility on big event days such as the Kentucky Derby and the Kentucky Oaks and during days the Churchill facility was being prepared for special events. It is an extension of Churchill Downs and is located approximately five miles from the Churchill facility. This 100,000 square-foot property, on approximately 88 acres of land, is a thoroughbred training and stabling annex and will operate only as such going forward. It previously also had audio visual capabilities for pari-mutuel wagering, seating for approximately 3,000 persons, parking, and related facilities for simulcasting races. The Company is currently assessing other opportunities for use of this property and during 2012, we reviewed the useful lives of assets at this facility and commenced accelerated depreciation on certain long-term assets. We have determined that no impairment has occurred for these assets as of December 31, 2012.
Arlington operates ten Trackside OTBs that accept wagers on races at Arlington as well as on races simulcast from other locations. One OTB is located on the Arlington property and another is located in East Moline, Illinois on approximately 122 acres. Arlington also leases an OTB located in Waukegan, Illinois consisting of approximately 25,000 square feet. Arlington operates seven OTBs within existing non-owned Illinois restaurants under license agreements. These seven OTBs are located in Chicago, which was relocated from its previous location in January 2012, and Orland Hills, Villa Park, Rockford, South Elgin, McHenry and Hodgkins and opened in April 2012, July 2011, December 2009, December 2002, June 2003 and December 2007, respectively.
Fair Grounds operates twelve OTBs that accept wagers on races at Fair Grounds as well as on races simulcast from other locations. One OTB is located on the Fair Grounds property. Another is located in Kenner, Louisiana consisting of approximately 4.3 acres.
Fair Grounds also leases ten OTBs located in these southeast Louisiana communities: Chalmette, consisting of approximately 8,000 square feet of space; Covington, which consists of approximately 7,000 square feet of space; Elmwood, which consists of approximately 15,000 square feet of space; Gretna, which consists of approximately 20,000 square feet of space; Houma, which consists of approximately 10,000 square feet of space; LaPlace, which consists of approximately 7,000 square feet of space; Metairie, which consists of approximately 9,000 square feet of space; Boutte, which consists of approximately 10,000 square feet of space; Thibodaux, which consists of approximately 5,000 square feet of space and Westwego, which opened in January 2013 and consists of approximately 5,000 square feet of space. Video poker is offered at Chalmette, Kenner, Elmwood, Gretna, Houma, LaPlace, Boutte, Metairie, Thibodaux and Westwego.
Kentucky Off-Track Betting, LLC
We are a 25% owner of Kentucky Off-Track Betting, LLC (“KOTB”). KOTB’s purpose is to own and operate facilities for the simulcasting of races and the acceptance of wagers on such races at Kentucky locations other than a racetrack. These OTBs may be located no closer than 75 miles from an existing racetrack without the racetrack’s consent and in no event closer than 50 miles from an existing racetrack. Each OTB must first be approved by the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission (“KHRC”) and the local government where the facility is to be located. KOTB currently owns or leases and operates OTBs in Corbin, Maysville and Jamestown, Kentucky that conduct simulcast wagering year-round.
OTBs developed by KOTB provide additional markets for the intrastate simulcasting of and wagering on Churchill Downs’ live races and interstate simulcasting of and wagering on out-of-state signals. KOTB did not contribute significantly to our operations in 2012 and is not anticipated to have a substantial impact on our operations in the future. Our investment in KOTB is not material to our financial position or results of operations.
E.
Advance Deposit Wagering
We accept pari-mutuel wagers through Churchill Downs Technology Initiatives Company, which is doing business as TwinSpires.com. TwinSpires.com’s headquarters is located in Mountain View, California and operates our ADW business, which accepts pari-mutuel wagering from customers residing in certain states who establish and fund an account from which they may place wagers via telephone, mobile device or through the Internet at www.twinspires.com. TwinSpires offers its customers streaming video of live horse races along with race replays and an assortment of racing and handicapping information. TwinSpires also offers all of its customers the ability to automatically qualify for its rewards program, TSC Elite. Industry studies have indicated that advance deposit wagering is the fastest growing segment of the pari-mutuel wagering business, and TwinSpires is a key component to the growth of the Company.
In addition, TwinSpires provides to other entities and earns commissions from white label advance deposit wagering products and services. Under these arrangements, TwinSpires typically provides an advance deposit wagering platform and related operational activities while the other entities typically provide a brand name, marketing and limited customer functions. Fair Grounds also operates its own ADW business for Louisiana residents through a contractual agreement with TwinSpires. Velocity operates an ADW business that is licensed in the British Dependency Isle of Man focused on high wagering-volume international customers and Luckity operates an ADW business that offers over 20 unique online games with outcomes based on and determined by pari-mutuel wagers on live horseraces.
F.
Gaming Operations
On October 23, 2012, we completed the acquisition of Riverwalk in Vicksburg, Mississippi for cash consideration of approximately $145.6 million. The transaction includes the acquisition of a 25,000-square-foot casino, an 80-room hotel, a 5,600-square-foot event center and dining facilities on approximately 22 acres of land.
On December 16, 2010, we completed the acquisition of Harlow’s in Greenville, Mississippi for cash consideration of approximately $140.4 million. The transaction included the acquisition of a 33,000-square foot casino, a 105-room attached hotel, a 2,600-seat entertainment center and three dining facilities. Harlow’s is located on approximately 78 acres of leased land adjacent to U.S. Highway 82 in Greenville, Mississippi. The property is visible from the highway and is the first gaming facility encountered when crossing the newly constructed Greenville Bridge into Mississippi from Arkansas along U.S. Highway 82. On May 12, 2011, the property sustained flood damage to its 2,600-seat entertainment center and a portion of its dining facilities. On June 1, 2011, we resumed casino operations with temporary dining facilities. During December 2012 and January 2013, we completed the renovation and improvement projects, which included a new buffet area, steakhouse, business center, spa facility, fitness center, pool and a multi-purpose event center.
On January 22, 2010, we opened a slot facility, Calder Casino, which is adjacent to Calder and offers approximately 1,200 slot machines in a single-level, 104,000 square foot facility and a poker room operation branded “Studz Poker Club”. Calder is the sole thoroughbred racetrack in Miami-Dade County, Florida to offer both live and import simulcast pari-mutuel wagering in addition to a casino facility. The facility offers three dining options, including a buffet dining area, a centrally located bar with a
separate casual dining area and a “grab and go” dining option.
During October 2008, we opened our permanent 33,000-square-foot slot operations facility, Fair Grounds Slots, adjacent to Fair Grounds, which operates approximately 625 slot machines. The facility includes two concession areas, a bar adjacent to the gaming floor, a renovated simulcast facility and other amenities for gaming and pari-mutuel wagering patrons.
VSI is the operator of approximately 725 video poker machines at ten OTBs operated by Fair Grounds.
We intend to continue to pursue expanded gaming opportunities with the goal of broadening our market, and thereby increasing gaming revenues.
G.
Information and Totalizator Services
We maintain one of the world’s largest computerized databases of pedigree and racing information for the thoroughbred horse industry. We provide special reports, statistical information, handicapping information, pedigrees, and other data to organizations, publications and individuals within the thoroughbred industry. This service is accessible through the Internet at www.brisnet.com. In addition, many of the handicapping products are available at our ADW site, www.twinspires.com.
We manufacture and operate pari-mutuel wagering systems for racetracks, OTBs and other pari-mutuel wagering businesses through our subsidiary, United Tote. United Tote provides totalizator services, which accumulate wagers, record sales, calculate payoffs and display wagering data to patrons who wager on horseraces. United Tote has contracts to provide totalizator services to a significant number of third-party racetracks, OTBs and other pari-mutuel wagering businesses, in addition to providing these services at many of our facilities.
H.
Sources of Revenue
Our racing revenues include commissions on pari-mutuel wagering at our racetracks and OTBs, plus simulcast host fees earned from other wagering sites. In addition, amounts include ancillary revenues generated by the pari-mutuel facilities including admissions, sponsorships and licensing rights and food and beverage sales. Our gaming revenues are primarily generated from slot machines, video poker, poker card room and table games and ancillary revenues such as hotel and food and beverage sales. Our online revenues are generated by our advance deposit wagering business from wagering through the Internet, telephone or other mobile devices on pari-mutuel events. Finally, our other revenues are primarily generated by United Tote and our other minor subsidiaries.
Financial information about our segments required by this Item is incorporated by reference from the information contained in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8. “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
I.
Governmental Regulations
The ownership, operation, and management of our gaming and racing facilities are subject to pervasive regulation under the laws and regulations of each of the jurisdictions in which we operate. Gaming laws are generally based upon declarations of public policy designed to protect gaming consumers and the viability and integrity of the gaming industry. Gaming laws also may be designed to protect and maximize state and local revenues derived through taxes and licensing fees imposed on gaming industry participants as well as to enhance economic development and tourism. To accomplish these public policy goals, gaming laws establish procedures to ensure that participants in the gaming industry meet certain standards of character and fitness. In addition, gaming laws require gaming industry participants to:
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Ensure that unsuitable individuals and organizations have no role in gaming operations;
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Establish procedures designed to prevent cheating and fraudulent practices;
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Establish and maintain responsible accounting practices and procedures;
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Maintain effective controls over their financial practices, including establishment of minimum procedures for internal fiscal affairs and the safeguarding of assets and revenues;
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Maintain systems for reliable record keeping;
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File periodic reports with gaming regulators;
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Ensure that contracts and financial transactions are commercially reasonable, reflect fair market value and are arms-length transactions; and
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Establish programs to promote responsible gaming and inform patrons of the availability of help for problem gaming.
Typically, a state regulatory environment is established by statute and is administered by a regulatory agency with broad discretion to regulate the affairs of owners, managers, and persons with financial interests in gaming operations. Among other things, gaming authorities in the various jurisdictions in which we operate:
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Adopt rules and regulations under the implementing statutes;
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Interpret and enforce gaming laws;
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Impose disciplinary sanctions for violations, including fines and penalties;
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Review the character and fitness of participants in gaming operations and make determinations regarding their suitability or qualification for licensure;
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Grant licenses for participation in gaming operations;
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Collect and review reports and information submitted by participants in gaming operations;
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Review and approve transactions, such as acquisitions or change-of-control transactions of gaming industry participants, securities offerings and debt transactions engaged in by such participants; and
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Establish and collect fees and taxes.
Any change in the laws or regulations of a gaming jurisdiction could have a material adverse effect on our gaming operations.
Licensing and Suitability Determinations
Gaming laws require us, each of our subsidiaries engaged in gaming operations, certain of our directors, officers and employees, and in some cases, certain of our shareholders, to obtain licenses from gaming authorities. Licenses typically require a determination that the applicant qualifies or is suitable to hold the license. Gaming authorities have very broad discretion in determining whether an applicant qualifies for licensing or should be deemed suitable. Criteria used in determining whether to grant a license to conduct gaming operations, while varying between jurisdictions, generally include consideration of factors such as the good character, honesty and integrity of the applicant; the financial stability, integrity and responsibility of the applicant, including whether the operation is adequately capitalized in the state and exhibits the ability to maintain adequate insurance levels; the quality of the applicant’s casino facilities; the amount of revenue to be derived by the applicable state from the operation of the applicant’s casino; the applicant’s practices with respect to minority hiring and training; and the effect on competition and general impact on the community.
In evaluating individual applicants, gaming authorities consider the individual’s business experience and reputation for good character, the individual’s criminal history and the character of those with whom the individual associates.
Many gaming jurisdictions limit the number of licenses granted to operate casinos within the state, and some states limit the number of licenses granted to any one gaming operator. Licenses under gaming laws are generally not transferable without approval. Licenses in most of the jurisdictions in which we conduct gaming operations are granted for limited durations and require renewal from time to time. There can be no assurance that any of our licenses will be renewed. The failure to renew any of our licenses could have a material adverse effect on our gaming operations.
In addition to our subsidiaries engaged in gaming operations, gaming authorities may investigate any individual who has a material relationship to or material involvement with, any of these entities to determine whether such individual is suitable or should be licensed as a business associate of a gaming licensee. Our officers, directors and certain key employees must file applications with the gaming authorities and may be required to be licensed, qualify or be found suitable in many jurisdictions. Gaming authorities may deny an application for licensing for any cause which they deem reasonable. Qualification and suitability determinations require submission of detailed personal and financial information followed by a thorough investigation. The applicant must pay all the costs of the investigation. Changes in licensed positions must be reported to gaming authorities and in addition to their authority to deny an application for licensure, qualification or a finding of suitability, gaming authorities have jurisdiction to disapprove a change in a corporate position.
If one or more gaming authorities were to find that an officer, director or key employee fails to qualify or is unsuitable for licensing or unsuitable to continue having a relationship with us, we would be required to sever all relationships with such person. In addition, gaming authorities may require us to terminate the employment of any person who refuses to file appropriate applications.
Moreover, in many jurisdictions, certain of our shareholders may be required to undergo a suitability investigation similar to that described above. Many jurisdictions require any person who acquires beneficial ownership of more than a certain percentage of our voting securities, typically 5%, to report the acquisition to gaming authorities, and gaming authorities may require such holders to apply for qualification or a finding of suitability. Most gaming authorities, however, allow an “institutional investor” to apply for a waiver. An “institutional investor” is generally defined as an investor acquiring and holding voting securities in the ordinary course of business as an institutional investor, and not for the purpose of causing, directly or indirectly, the election of a member
of our board of directors, any change in our corporate charter, bylaws, management, policies or operations, or those of any of our gaming affiliates, or the taking of any other action which gaming authorities find to be inconsistent with holding our voting securities for investment purposes only. Even if a waiver is granted, an institutional investor generally may not take any action inconsistent with its status when the waiver was granted without once again becoming subject to the foregoing reporting and application obligations.
Generally, any person who fails or refuses to apply for a finding of suitability or a license within the prescribed period after being advised it is required by gaming authorities may be denied a license or found unsuitable, as applicable. Any shareholder found unsuitable or denied a license and who holds, directly or indirectly, any beneficial ownership of our voting securities beyond such period of time as may be prescribed by the applicable gaming authorities may be guilty of a criminal offense. Furthermore, we may be subject to disciplinary action if, after we receive notice that a person is unsuitable to be a shareholder or to have any other relationship with us or any of our subsidiaries, we: (i) pay that person any dividend or interest upon our voting securities; (ii) allow that person to exercise, directly or indirectly, any voting right conferred through securities held by that person; (iii) pay remuneration in any form to that person for services rendered or otherwise; or (iv) fail to pursue all lawful efforts to require such unsuitable person to relinquish his voting securities including, if necessary, the immediate purchase of said voting securities for cash at fair market value.
Violations of Gaming Laws
If we or our subsidiaries violate applicable gaming laws, our gaming licenses could be limited, conditioned, suspended or revoked by gaming authorities, and we and any other persons involved could be subject to substantial fines. Further, a supervisor or conservator can be appointed by gaming authorities to operate our gaming properties, or in some jurisdictions, take title to our gaming assets in the jurisdiction, and under certain circumstances, earnings generated during such appointment could be forfeited to the applicable state or states. Furthermore, violations of laws in one jurisdiction could result in disciplinary action in other jurisdictions. As a result, violations by us of applicable gaming laws could have a material adverse effect on our gaming operations.
Some gaming jurisdictions prohibit certain types of political activity by a gaming licensee, its officers, directors and key employees. A violation of such a prohibition may subject the offender to criminal and/or disciplinary action.
Reporting and Record-keeping Requirements
We are required periodically to submit detailed financial and operating reports and furnish any other information about us and our subsidiaries which gaming authorities may require. Under federal law, we are required to record and submit detailed reports of currency transactions involving greater than $10,000 at our casinos and racetracks, as well as any suspicious activity that may occur at such facilities. Failure to comply with these requirements could result in fines or cessation of operations. We are required to maintain a current stock ledger which 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 require certificates for our securities to bear a legend indicating that the securities are subject to specified gaming laws.
Review and Approval of Transactions
Substantially all material loans, leases, sales of securities and similar financing transactions by us and our subsidiaries must be reported to and in some cases approved by gaming authorities. Neither we nor any of our subsidiaries may make a public offering of securities without the prior approval of certain gaming authorities. Changes in control through merger, consolidation, stock or asset acquisitions, management or consulting agreements, or otherwise are subject to receipt of prior approval of gaming authorities. Entities seeking to acquire control of us or one of our subsidiaries must satisfy gaming authorities with respect to a variety of stringent standards prior to assuming control. Gaming authorities may also require controlling stockholders, officers, directors and other persons having a material relationship or involvement with the entity proposing to acquire control, to be investigated and licensed as part of the approval process relating to the transaction.
License Fees and Gaming Taxes
We pay substantial license fees and taxes in many jurisdictions, including some of the counties and cities in which our operations are conducted, in connection with our casino gaming operations, computed in various ways depending on the type of gaming or activity involved. Depending upon the particular fee or tax involved, these fees and taxes are payable with varying frequency. License fees and taxes are based upon such factors as a percentage of the gross gaming revenues received; the number of gaming devices and table games operated; or a one-time fee payable upon the initial receipt of license and fees in connection with the renewal of license. In some jurisdictions, gaming tax rates are graduated such that they increase as gross gaming revenues increase. Furthermore, tax rates are subject to change, sometimes with little notice, and such changes could have a material adverse effect on our gaming operations. In addition to taxes specifically unique to gaming, we are required to pay all other applicable taxes.
Operational Requirements
In most jurisdictions, we are subject to certain requirements and restrictions on how we must conduct our gaming operations. In certain states, we are required to give preference to local suppliers and include minority and women-owned businesses as well as organized labor in construction projects to the maximum extent practicable as well as in general vendor business activity. Similarly, we may be required to give employment preference to minorities, women and in-state residents in certain jurisdictions. In addition, our ability to conduct certain types of games, introduce new games or move existing games within our facilities may be restricted or subject to regulatory review and approval. Some of our operations are subject to restrictions on the number of gaming positions we may have and the maximum wagers allowed to be placed by our customers.
Horseracing and Pari-Mutuel Wagering Regulations
Horseracing is a highly regulated industry. In the U.S., individual states control the operations of racetracks located within their respective jurisdictions with the intent of, among other things, protecting the public from unfair and illegal gambling practices, generating tax revenue, licensing racetracks and operators and preventing organized crime from being involved in the industry. Although the specific form may vary, states that regulate horseracing generally do so through a horseracing commission or other gambling regulatory authority. In general, regulatory authorities perform background checks on all racetrack owners prior to granting them the necessary operating licenses. Horse owners, trainers, jockeys, drivers, stewards, judges and backstretch personnel are also subject to licensing by governmental authorities. State regulation of horse races extends to virtually every aspect of racing and usually extends to details such as the presence and placement of specific race officials, including timers, placing judges, starters and patrol judges. We currently satisfy the applicable licensing requirements of the racing and gambling regulatory authorities in each state where we maintain racetracks and/or carry on business, including, but not limited to, the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Division of Pari-Mutuel Wagering (“DPW”), the Illinois Racing Board (“IRB”), the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission (“KHRC”), the Louisiana State Racing Commission (“LSRC”) and the Oregon Racing Commission (“ORC”).
In the United States, interstate pari-mutuel wagering on horseracing is subject to the federal Interstate Horseracing Act of 1978 (“IHA”) and its amendment in 2000. As a result of this statute, racetracks can commingle wagers from different racetracks and wagering facilities and broadcast horseracing events to other licensed establishments.
Kentucky’s racetracks, including Churchill Downs, are subject to the licensing and regulation of the KHRC. The KHRC is responsible for overseeing horseracing and regulating the state equine industry. Licenses to conduct live thoroughbred racing meets, to participate in simulcasting and to accept ADW wagers from Kentucky residents are approved annually by the KHRC based upon applications submitted by the racetracks in Kentucky. To some extent, Churchill Downs competes with other racetracks in Kentucky for the award of racing dates, however, the KHRC is required by state law to consider and seek to preserve each racetrack’s usual and customary live racing dates. During October 2012, Churchill Downs received approval to conduct a twelve-day September meet during 2013, in addition to its traditional spring and fall racing meets.
In Florida, licenses to conduct live thoroughbred racing and to participate in simulcast wagering are approved by the DPW. The DPW is responsible for overseeing the network of state offices located at every pari-mutuel wagering facility, as well as issuing the permits necessary to operate a pari-mutuel wagering facility. The DPW also issues annual licenses for thoroughbred, standardbred and quarterhorse races but does not approve the specific live race days.
Calder may face direct competition from other Florida racetracks, including Miami-area racetracks, and host more or fewer live racing dates in the future. In recent years, Calder has elected to conduct fewer days of live racing in order to increase purses and maximize the quality of the racing product. Race date requests to the DPW for the 2013-2014 racing season are due on February 28, 2013, and Calder has not yet finalized its submission.In Illinois, licenses to conduct live thoroughbred racing and to participate in simulcast wagering are approved by the IRB. Generally, there is no substantial change from year to year in the number of racing dates awarded to each racetrack, however during January 2013, the IRB appointed Arlington Park the host track for 26 days in 2013, a decrease of 18 days compared to the same period of 2012.
In Louisiana, licenses to conduct live thoroughbred racing and to participate in simulcast wagering are approved by the LSRC. The LSRC is responsible for overseeing the awarding of licenses for the conduct of live racing meets, the conduct of thoroughbred horseracing, the types of wagering which may be offered by pari-mutuel facilities and the disposition of revenue generated from wagering. Off-track wagering is also regulated by the LSRC. Louisiana law requires live racing at a licensed racetrack for at least 80 days over a 20 week period each year to maintain the license and to conduct gaming.
Additionally, with the addition of slot machines at Fair Grounds, Louisiana law requires live quarter horseracing to be conducted at the racetrack. We conducted eight days of quarter horseracing in 2012 and plan to offer fourteen days of quarter horseracing during 2013.
TwinSpires is licensed in Oregon under a multi-jurisdictional simulcasting and interactive wagering totalizator hub license issued by the ORC and in accordance with Oregon law. TwinSpires also holds ADW licenses in certain other states such as California, Illinois, Idaho, Maryland, Virginia and Washington. Changes in the form of new legislation or regulatory activity at the state or
federal level could adversely impact the operations, success or growth of our ADW business.
The total number of days on which each racetrack conducts live thoroughbred racing fluctuates annually according to each calendar year and the determination of applicable regulatory activities. A substantial change in the allocation of live racing days at any of our four racetracks could significantly impact our operations and earnings in future years.
Gaming Regulations
The manufacture, distribution, servicing and operation of video draw poker devices in Louisiana are subject to the Louisiana Video Draw Poker Devices Control Law and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder. The manufacture, distribution, servicing and operation of video poker devices and slot machines are maintained by a single gaming control board for the regulation of gaming in Louisiana. This board, created on May 1, 1996, is called the Louisiana Gaming Control Board (the “Louisiana Board”) and oversees all licensing for all forms of legalized gaming in Louisiana (including all regulatory enforcement and supervisory authority that exists in the state as to gaming on Native American lands). The Video Gaming Division and the Slots Gaming Division of the Gaming Enforcement Section of the Office of the State Police within the Department of Public Safety and Corrections (the “Division”) performs the investigative functions for the Louisiana Board for video poker and slot gaming. The laws and regulations of Louisiana are based on policies of maintaining the health, welfare and safety of the general public and protecting the video gaming industry from elements of organized crime, illegal gambling activities and other harmful elements, as well as protecting the public from illegal and unscrupulous gaming to ensure the fair play of devices. The Louisiana Board also regulates slot machine gaming at racetrack facilities pursuant to the Louisiana Pari-Mutuel Live Racing Facility Economic Redevelopment and Gaming Control Act. In addition, the LSRC also issues licenses required for Fair Grounds to operate slot machines at the racetrack and video poker devices at its OTBs. The failure to comply with the rules and regulations of the Louisiana Board could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
The ownership and operation of casino gaming facilities in the State of Mississippi is subject to extensive state and local regulation, but primarily the licensing and regulatory control of the Mississippi Gaming Commission (the “Mississippi Commission”). The laws, regulations and supervisory procedures of the Mississippi Commission are based upon declarations of public policy that are concerned with, among other things: (1) the prevention of unsavory or unsuitable persons from having direct or indirect involvement with gaming at any time or in any capacity; (2) the establishment and maintenance of responsible accounting practices and procedures; (3) the maintenance of effective controls over the financial practices of licensees, including the establishment of minimum procedures for internal fiscal affairs and the safeguarding of assets and revenues, providing for reliable record keeping and requiring the filing of periodic reports with the Mississippi Commission; (4) the prevention of cheating and fraudulent practices; (5) providing a source of state and local revenues through taxation and licensing fees; and (6) ensuring that gaming licensees, to the extent practicable, employ Mississippi residents. The regulations are subject to amendment and interpretation by the Mississippi Commission. Changes in Mississippi laws or regulations may limit or otherwise materially affect the types of gaming that may be conducted and such changes, if enacted, could have an adverse effect on us and our Mississippi gaming operations. The failure to comply with the rules and regulations of the Mississippi Commission could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
The ownership and operation of casino gaming facilities in the State of Florida is subject to extensive state and local regulation, primarily by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (the “DBPR”), within the executive branch of Florida’s state government. The DBPR is charged with the regulation of Florida’s pari-mutuel, cardroom and slot gaming industries, as well as collecting and safeguarding associated revenues due to the state. The DBPR has been designated by the Florida legislature as the state compliance agency with the authority to carry out the state’s oversight responsibilities in accordance with the provisions outlined in the compact between the Seminole Tribe of Florida and the State of Florida. The laws and regulations of Florida are based on policies of maintaining the health, welfare and safety of the general public and protecting the video gaming industry from elements of organized crime, illegal gambling activities and other harmful elements, as well as protecting the public from illegal and unscrupulous gaming to ensure the fair play of devices. The failure to comply with the rules and regulations of the DPBR could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
J.
Competition
We operate in a highly competitive industry with a large number of participants, some of which have financial and other resources that are greater than ours. The industry faces competition from a variety of sources for discretionary consumer spending including spectator sports and other entertainment and gaming options. Competitive gaming activities include traditional and Native American casinos, video lottery terminals, state-sponsored lotteries and other forms of legalized gaming in the U.S. and other jurisdictions. Additionally, Internet-based interactive gaming and wagering, both legal and, we believe, illegal, is growing rapidly and affecting competition in our industry. We anticipate competition in this area will become more intense as new Internet-based ventures enter the industry and as state and federal regulations on Internet-based activities are clarified.
Legalized gaming is currently permitted in various forms in many U.S. states and Canada. Other jurisdictions could legalize gaming in the future, and established gaming jurisdictions could award additional gaming licenses or permit the expansion of
existing gaming operations. If additional gaming opportunities become available near our racing or gaming operations, such gaming opportunities could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
All of our racetracks face competition in the simulcast market. Approximately 46,000 thoroughbred horse races are conducted annually in the U.S. Of these races, we host approximately 4,000 races each year, or around nine percent of the total. As a content provider, we compete for wagering dollars in the simulcast market with other racetracks conducting races at or near the same times as our races. As a racetrack operator, we also compete for horses with other racetracks running live racing meets at or near the same time as our races. Our ability to compete is substantially dependent on purse size. In recent years, this competition has increased as more states legalize gaming, allowing slot machines at racetracks with mandatory purse contributions. Over 88 percent of pari-mutuel handle is bet at off-track locations, either at other racetracks, OTBs, casinos, or through ADW channels. As a content distributor, we compete for these dollars to be wagered at our racetracks, OTBs, casinos and via our ADW business.
Louisville, Kentucky
Churchill Downs faces competition from free-standing casinos and racetracks which are combined with casinos (“racinos”) in neighboring states. Currently, three Indiana casinos compete for customers in the Louisville market. These casinos include Horseshoe Indiana, located in Elizabeth, Indiana, Belterra, a Pinnacle Entertainment casino located between Louisville and Cincinnati and the resort casino at French Lick, located about 60 miles northwest of Louisville. Additionally, Hoosier Park operates 2,000 slot machines, and Indiana Downs operates 1,900 slot machines. This has resulted in increased purses at those Indiana racetracks.
During 2009, the Ohio voters passed a referendum to allow five casinos in Ohio, and, during 2011, the state legislature passed legislation allowing Ohio’s seven racetracks to apply for video lottery licenses. During 2012, construction is underway on separate casino projects in Cleveland and Cincinnati. We believe that the potential expansion of gaming at Ohio racetracks could provide a competitive advantage to those racetracks and may enable Ohio racetracks to increase their purses.
On October 28, 2011, Aqueduct Racetrack opened a gaming facility with more than 2,400 video lottery terminals and electronic table games. An additional 2,500 gaming machines were added in December 2011 as part of a further expansion of the facility. As a result of the addition of gaming activities, New York purse payments in 2013 will be enhanced as compared to their historical levels. These enhanced purses could affect our ability to attract horses and trainers and could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
These developments may result in Ohio and New York racetracks attracting horses that would otherwise race at Kentucky racetracks, including Churchill Downs, thus negatively affecting the number of starters and purse size which, in turn, may have a negative effect on handle. In addition, we believe the opening of four land-based, free-standing casinos in Ohio may likewise have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Miami, Florida
Calder is surrounded by competitors for consumers’ discretionary income. Calder competes with Gulfstream Park for thoroughbred race fans in the Miami area. This direct competition may adversely and materially impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.
On January 22, 2010, Calder Casino commenced operations and features approximately 1,200 slot machines. This gaming operation competes with three established casinos in Broward County just to the north of Miami-Dade County. We also face competition from Native American casinos, such as the Seminole Hard Rock facility, and popular gambling cruises-to-nowhere. Due to the high tax rates in Florida for pari-mutuel gaming facilities, Native American casinos, which are not taxed at the same rates, are generally able to spend more money marketing their facilities to consumers.
On November 9, 2011, we petitioned the Florida Supreme Court to grant discretionary review of Calder Race Course, Inc., vs. Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation and South Florida Racing Association, LLC, and reverse the Florida First Appellate Court’s decision which allows for the opening of a slot machine facility at Hialeah Race Course, located approximately twelve miles from Calder. On April 27, 2012, the Florida Supreme Court declined to consider a review of our petition, upholding the decision of the lower court. Hialeah Race Course subsequently commenced construction of a casino with approximately 900 slot machines which is expected to open during the summer of 2013. The operation of a slot machine facility at Hialeah Race Course could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Florida legislators continue to debate the expansion of Florida gaming to include Las Vegas-style destination resort casinos. Such casinos may be subject to taxation rates lower than the current pari-mutuel taxation structure. Should such legislation be enacted, it could increase competition and have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Chicago, Illinois
Arlington competes in the Chicago market against a variety of entertainment options. In addition to other racetracks in the area such as Hawthorne Park and Maywood Park, there are ten riverboat casino operations that draw from the Chicago market including Rivers Casino, which opened in July 2011, in Des Plaines, Illinois. Additionally, Native American gaming operations in Wisconsin may adversely affect Arlington.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Fair Grounds competes in the New Orleans area with two riverboat casinos and one land-based casino. With approximately 625 slot machines, Fair Grounds competes with Harrah’s land-based casino, which is the largest and closest competitor to Fair Grounds. Additionally, Fair Grounds faces significant gambling competition along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Fair Grounds also competes with video poker operations located at various OTBs, truck stops and restaurants in the area.
Greenville, Mississippi
Harlow’s competes in Mississippi with a variety of riverboat and land-based casinos. Our principal local competitor is Trop Casino in Greenville. Harlow’s also faces regional competition from a casino in Lula, Mississippi and from two locations in Arkansas. Both Arkansas locations offer pari-mutuel wagering on live and simulcast racing and other electronic games of skill such as blackjack, video poker, and electronic roulette. In addition, historical racing machines are offered at one of the Arkansas locations.
Vicksburg, Mississippi
Riverwalk competes in the Vicksburg area and is the newest and the only land-based casino in the local market. Our principal local competitors are Ameristar Casino, which is the largest local competitor, and Rainbow Hotel Casino, which is the closest competitor, in Vicksburg. In addition, Riverwalk faces regional competition from two locations in Natchez Mississippi, including Magnolia Bluff Casino which opened during December 2012 and from Pearl River Resort in Philadelphia, Mississippi.
From time to time, potential competitors have proposed the development of additional casinos. The Mississippi Gaming Control Act does not limit the number of licenses that may be granted, and there are a number of additional sites located in the Gulf Coast region that are in various stages of development. Any significant licensure could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Advance Deposit Wagering
TwinSpires competes with other ADW businesses for both customers and racing content, and TwinSpires also competes with online gaming sites. Our competitors include, but are not limited to, Betfair Limited (d/b/a TVG), the Stronach Group (d/b/a XpressBet), Premier Turf Club, Lien Games, AmWest Entertainment, The New York Racing Association, Connecticut OTB, Penn National Gaming Inc. and Racing2Day LLC. We also own an information services data business that sells handicapping and pedigree information to wagering customers and horsemen in the industry. This data may give us a competitive advantage as we are able to provide promotional products to our ADW customers that other ADW businesses cannot provide. As a data provider, we compete with companies such as Equibase and the Daily Racing Form by selling handicapping data to wagering customers.
In response to increased competition from other gaming options, we continue to seek new sources of revenue. We are focused on product innovation, marketing initiatives and customer relationships. We also seek to offer the widest array of racing content from throughout the world, and where available, we will take advantage of geographical expansion. All of our activities are highly dependent on the regulatory environment and legal developments within federal and individual state jurisdictions.
Totalizator Business
We acquired United Tote through our acquisition of Youbet on June 2, 2010. United Tote provides totalizator services, which accumulate wagers, record sales, calculate payoffs and display wagering data in a secure manner to patrons who wager on horseraces. Our competitors are primarily Sportech and AmTote International, Inc. Our competition outside of North America is more fragmented, with competition also being provided by several international and regional companies. United Tote competes primarily on the basis of the design, performance, reliability and pricing of its products and contract services.
United Tote has contracts to provide totalizator services to a significant number of racetracks, OTBs and other pari-mutuel wagering businesses. Errors by United Tote technology or personnel may subject us to liabilities, including financial penalties under our totalizator service contracts, which could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
K.
Legislative Changes
Federal
Wire Act of 1961 - Federal Clarification
On December 23, 2011, the U.S. Department of Justice clarified its position on the Wire Act of 1961 (the “Wire Act”), which had historically been interpreted to outlaw all forms of gambling across states lines. The department's Office of Legal Counsel determined, in a written memorandum, that the Wire Act applied only to a sporting event or contest but did not apply to other forms of Internet gambling, including online betting unrelated to sporting events. The Justice Department opinion could be interpreted to allow Internet gaming on an intrastate basis. Since the issuance of this opinion, there have been actions taken by various state legislatures to either further enable or further limit Internet gaming opportunities for their residents and businesses, and we anticipate that other states may follow. At this point, we do not know to what extent intrastate Internet gaming could affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Senate Hearing on Medication and Performance-Enhancing Drugs in Horses
In July 2012, the Senate Commerce Committee held a hearing on the use of anti-bleeding medications, painkillers and performance enhancing drugs in racehorses. The Interstate Horseracing Improvement Act was introduced, which is designed to regulate and standardize medication usage within the industry. It is unclear to what extent such federal regulations could impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Other Federal Legislation
During 2011, two major pieces of Internet gaming legislation were introduced in the United States Congress. The first bill, the Internet Gambling Regulation, Consumer Protection and Enforcement Act (“HR 1174”), would have granted the Secretary of the Treasury regulatory and enforcement jurisdiction over Internet gaming. Though wagering on sports was excluded, it would have expanded Internet gaming beyond poker. The second bill, the Internet Gambling Prohibition, Poker Consumer Protection, and Strengthening UIGEA Act of 2011 (“HR 2366”), mirrored many of the safeguard provisions proffered in HR 1174, however it limited Internet gaming to poker only. No action was taken on either proposed bill. Similar legislation related to Internet gaming issues could be introduced during the 2013 Congressional session. It is unclear to what extent such federal regulations could impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Nevada
On February 21, 2013, the Governor of Nevada signed Assembly Bill 114 into law. This legislation legalizes Internet gaming in Nevada, removing a previous statutory restriction requiring federal authorization. The legislation further requires the Nevada Gaming Commission to issue compacting guidelines, which will allow Nevada to enter into Internet gaming agreements with other states. It is unclear to what extent such federal regulations could impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Kentucky
Expanded gaming legislation
On February 19, 2013, House Bill 443 was introduced in the Kentucky House of Representatives. This legislation would amend the Kentucky Constitution to provide up to seven casino locations in the state of Kentucky and would create an Equine Excellence Fund, into which ten percent of gross gaming revenues would be directed. The constitutionally protected Equine Excellence Fund would be distributed annually for purses, breeders' incentives, horsemen services, equine research, regulation, racetrack improvements, and marketing of the equine industry. House Bill 443 would require a three-fifths majority in both chambers of the Kentucky General Assembly and, if passed, would be submitted to voters for ratification no earlier than November 2014. Should the referendum be successful, the General Assembly then would be required to pass enabling legislation to provide the requisite licensing, regulatory and taxation framework. It is unclear to what extent this proposed legislation would impact our existing business, financial condition and results of operations.
Race-day Medication Ban
On June 13, 2012, the KHRC approved a change in state regulations that bans the use of anti-bleeding medication on race-days for graded and listed stakes horse races. The revised regulation must survive a legislative review process, in addition to potential legal challenges before being enacted into law. Should the regulation be enacted, it would be phased in over a three-year period, beginning in 2014. If approved, Kentucky would be the only U.S. state to have enacted such restrictions. At this point, we do not know the effect this legislation could have on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Historical Racing Machines
On July 20, 2010, the KHRC approved a change in state regulations that would allow racetracks to offer pari-mutuel Historical Racing Machines (“HRMs”), which base their payouts on the results of previously-run races at racetracks across North America. Portions of previously-run races, the length of which is chosen by the player, can be viewed, and winning combinations are presented via video terminals through which the player may place wagers in the pari-mutuel betting pools available via the HRMs. Previously, only Oaklawn Park Racetrack, in Arkansas, offered the HRMs. On September 1, 2011, Kentucky Downs Racetrack opened an HRM facility with approximately 200 HRMs, and during February 2012, the KHRC approved the installation of 75 additional HRMs at such facility. On August 31, 2012, Ellis Park Racetrack opened a HRM facility with 177 HRMs.
Despite the approval of the KHRC, there are questions with regard to the economic viability of the HRMs in a competitive wagering market such as Louisville, as well as the legality of regulations enacted. We do not expect to make any decisions on whether to pursue HRMs until both of these questions are answered. A declaratory judgment action was filed in Franklin Circuit Court on behalf of the Commonwealth of Kentucky and all Kentucky racetracks to ensure proper legal authority. The Franklin Circuit Court entered a declaratory judgment upholding the regulations in their entirety. The intervening adverse party filed a notice of appeal, and the KHRC and the racetracks filed a motion to transfer that appeal directly to the Supreme Court of Kentucky. On April 21, 2011, the Supreme Court of Kentucky denied the request to hear the case before the appeal is heard by the Kentucky Court of Appeals. On September 1, 2011, the intervening adverse party filed an injunction action with the Kentucky Court of Appeals to grant emergency relief that would prevent Kentucky Downs Racetrack from operating its HRMs. The intervening adverse party’s motions were denied by the Kentucky Court of Appeals. On June 15, 2012, the Kentucky Court of Appeals vacated the lower court's decision and remanded the declaratory judgment action back to the Franklin County Circuit Court. On July 16, 2012, the Kentucky racetracks, the KHRC and the Kentucky Department of Revenue filed motions for discretionary review with the Supreme Court of Kentucky asking the court to overturn the Kentucky Court of Appeals' decision and address the merits of the case. On January 11, 2013, the Supreme Court of Kentucky agreed to hear the case.
On February 15, 2013, Senate Bill 204 was introduced which would statutorily permit wagering via HRMs. At this point, we do not know if the proposed legislation will be successful or the impact it will have on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
ADW Regulations
Legislation was introduced on February 8, 2011, to clarify state regulatory authority over ADW companies. The legislation provided jurisdiction over wagering made within the Commonwealth of Kentucky and required a license to accept ADW wagers from Kentucky residents, which TwinSpires obtained during March 2012. During January 2012, the Kentucky House of Representatives passed House Bill 229, which imposed taxes on advanced deposit wagering placed by Kentucky residents, however, House Bill 229 failed to move forward in the Kentucky Senate during the 2012 legislative session. On February 5, 2013, the Kentucky House of Representatives introduced House Bill 189, which contained similar provisions to House Bill 229 and would impose an excise tax of 0.5% of wagering proceeds on all advance deposit wagering placed by Kentucky residents. The state’s general fund would receive 15% of the excise tax, with the remaining 85% to be shared equally between the state’s racetracks and horsemen. On February 12, 2013, House Bill 189 was approved by the House Appropriations and Revenue Committee and on February 15, 2013, it was approved by the House of Representatives. Should this legislation be enacted into law, it could have a negative impact on our Online Business operations.
Illinois
Expanded Gaming Legislation
On May 31, 2012, Senate Bill 1849 was passed by the Illinois General Assembly, which authorized five additional casinos to be constructed in Illinois, as well as provided for slot machines to be installed at racetracks. Specifically, the legislation authorized Arlington to operate up to 1,200 slot or video poker machines and authorizes Quad City Downs, owned by Arlington, to operate up to 900 slot or video poker machines. Existing casinos would have been eligible to increase the number of gaming machines from the current limit of 1,200 machines to 1,600 machines. Five new land-based casinos would have been authorized, one of which could have been located in Chicago with 4,000 gaming machines. Senate Bill 1849 was vetoed by Governor Quinn on August 28, 2012. During January 2013, the Illinois Senate president released his hold on a previous version of gaming legislation, Senate Bill 744, which allowed it to be sent to the Governor. The Governor is expected to veto this legislation. At this point, we do not know how future legislation would affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
ADW Legislation
House Bill 3779 relating to ADW regulation was signed into law by Governor Quinn on August 24, 2012 and extended ADW authorization through December 31, 2012. Among other things, House Bill 3779 provided requirements that, effective August 26, 2012, each ADW license-holder impose a surcharge of up to 0.18% on winning wagers and winnings from wagers placed through advance deposit wagering. The funds received as the result of the surcharge were deposited into standardbred purse accounts. Legislation providing for an extension of ADW operations in Illinois subsequent to the December 31, 2012 sunset date failed to pass the legislature prior to adjournment of the 2012 legislative session. TwinSpires ceased accepting wagers from Illinois residents on January 18, 2013, based upon the request of the Illinois Racing Board. Legislation has been filed that would extend ADW authorization in Illinois until December 31, 2015 and would validate ADW wagers accepted between January 1, 2013 and the enactment of the proposed legislation. If approved, the bill would take effect immediately. TwinSpires expects to resume accepting wagers from Illinois residents when such a bill is passed to extend the licensure and regulation of ADW operations in Illinois. Failure of the Illinois legislature to extend ADW regulations could adversely affect our ADW business in Illinois.
Online Gaming
During the 2012 legislative session, the Illinois Senate amended House Bill 4148 with language that, if enacted, would create a new division of the state lottery to oversee and operate online games, including poker, for registered players within Illinois. The division would also be given authority to enter into interstate and multinational online gaming compacts. As currently written, the lottery would create a single platform on which Internet Gaming would be conducted in Illinois. At a later date, the state could allow private companies licensed to conduct gaming in Illinois to essentially serve as affiliates. It is not clear under what terms the state would allow the private companies to participate. The legislative session adjourned without action on House Bill 4148. We expect similar legislation to be introduced during the 2013 legislative session but at this point, we do not know how future legislation would impact our business, financial condition and results of operation.
Horse Racing Equity Trust Fund
During 2006, the Illinois General Assembly enacted Public Act 94-804, which created the Horse Racing Equity Trust Fund (“HRE Trust Fund”). During November 2008, the Illinois General Assembly passed Public Act 95-1008 to extend Public Act 94-804 for a period of three years beginning December 12, 2008. The HRE Trust Fund was funded by a 3% “surcharge” on revenues of Illinois riverboat casinos that met a certain revenue threshold. The riverboats paid all monies required under Public Acts 94-804 and 95-1008 into a special protest fund account which prevented the monies from being transferred to the HRE Trust Fund. The funds were moved to the HRE Trust Fund and distributed to the racetracks, including Arlington, in December 2009. See Item 3. “Legal Proceedings” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further discussion of ensuing litigation with respect to the Horse Racing Equity Trust Fund.
Horse Racing Equity Fund - Tenth Riverboat License
Under legislation enacted in 1999, the Illinois Horse Racing Equity Fund is scheduled to receive amounts up to 15% of the adjusted gross receipts earned on an annual basis from state tax generated by the tenth riverboat casino license granted in Illinois. The funds will be distributed to racetracks in Illinois and may be utilized for purses as well as racetrack discretionary spending. In addition, the holders of the original nine riverboat licenses who paid monies into the HRE Trust Fund will no longer be required to pay monies into that fund. During December 2008, the Illinois Gaming Board awarded the tenth license to Midwest Gaming LLC to operate a casino in Des Plaines, Illinois. This casino opened during July 2011. The Illinois racing industry will be entitled to receive an amount equal to 15% of the adjusted gross receipts of this casino from the gaming taxes generated by that casino. However, these funds must be appropriated by the state, and the current fiscal year budget contains no such appropriation.
Purse Recapture
Pursuant to the Illinois Horse Racing Act, Arlington and all other Illinois racetracks are permitted to receive a payment commonly known as purse recapture. Generally, in any year that wagering on Illinois horse races at Arlington is less than 75% of wagering both in Illinois and at Arlington on Illinois horse races in 1994, Arlington is permitted to receive 2% of the difference in wagering in the subsequent year. The payment is funded from the Arlington purse account. Under the Illinois Horse Racing Act, the Arlington purse account is to be repaid via an appropriation by the Illinois General Assembly from the Illinois General Revenue Fund. However, this appropriation has not been made since 2001. Subsequently, Illinois horsemen unsuccessfully petitioned the IRB to prevent Illinois racetracks from receiving this payment in any year that the Illinois General Assembly did not appropriate the repayment to the racetrack’s purse accounts from the General Revenue Fund. Further, the Illinois horsemen filed lawsuits seeking, among other things, to block payment to Illinois racetracks, as well as to recover the 2002 and 2003 amounts already paid to the Illinois racetracks. These lawsuits filed by the Illinois horsemen challenging the 2002 and 2003 reimbursements have been resolved in favor of Arlington and the other Illinois racetracks. Several bills were filed in the 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2009 sessions of the Illinois legislature that, in part, would eliminate the statutory right of Arlington and the other Illinois racetracks to continue to receive this payment. None of these bills passed. Since the statute remains in effect, Arlington continues to receive the recapture
payment from the purse account. If Arlington loses the statutory right to receive this payment, there could be a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Host Days
During January, February and a portion of March each year, when there is no live racing in Illinois, the IRB designates a thoroughbred racetrack as the host track in Illinois, for which the host track receives a higher percentage of earnings from pari-mutuel wagering activity throughout Illinois. The IRB has appointed Arlington the host track in Illinois during January of 2013 for 26 days, which is a decrease of 18 days compared to the same period of 2012. Arlington’s future designation as the host track is subject to the annual designation by the IRB. A change in the number of days that Arlington is designated host track could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Ohio
Gaming Legislation
In November 2009, Ohio voters passed a referendum to allow five casinos in Ohio, with opening dates from 2012 through 2013. On June 28, 2011, both houses of the Ohio General Assembly passed House Bill 277 (“HB 277”) allowing all seven state racetracks to apply for video lottery licenses. The Governor of Ohio signed HB 277 into law on July 15, 2011. In addition, on June 23, 2011, the Ohio legislature passed legislation allowing the relocation of Ohio racetracks with video lottery terminal licenses. In October 2011, the Ohio Roundtable filed a lawsuit seeking to prevent racetracks from relocating and prohibiting video lottery terminals. In May 2012, the Common Pleas Court ruled against the Ohio Roundtable, indicating it did not have legal standing to sue the State over the 2011 ruling. On June 28, 2012, the Ohio Roundtable filed an appeal against this ruling. Oral arguments on the appeal were heard by the Franklin County Court of Appeals on January 17, 2013. The Court took the arguments under consideration and will issue a verdict at a later date. At this point, we do not know how this legislation or the related litigation could affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
On June 11, 2012, House Bill 386 (“HB 386”), which makes revisions to both Ohio’s gaming-related laws pertaining to casinos, video lottery terminals, horseracing and gaming as well as clarifies Ohio gaming regulations became law.
In December 2012, the Ohio House approved legislation that significantly limited the business model of Internet cafés operating in the state. The legislation was not considered by the Senate during 2012. On January 30, 2013, House Bill 7 was filed in the Ohio House and is intended to negatively impact the business model of Internet cafés by banning cash payouts and limiting prizes or vouchers redeemable for merchandise to not more than a $10 value. At this time, we do not know how this legislation or related legislation could affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
New York
Gaming Legislation
During December 2011, the Governor of New York announced his support for a constitutional amendment to expand Las Vegas-style casino gaming on non-Indian lands. Such a change in the state constitution would require two successive sessions of the state legislature followed by a statewide referendum by voters. The earliest a statewide vote could occur would be November 2013.
In March 2012, the Governor of New York and legislative leaders agreed to legalize casino gaming and to seek amendment of the state constitution to allow up to seven new casinos in the state. An expansion of gaming in New York could include expanded incentives for the horse racing industry. This could affect our ability to attract horses and trainers and could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Significant Agreement
In November 2012, a resolution to award United Tote's existing tote contract with the New York Racing Association ("NYRA") to another totalizator company was postponed when the NYRA Board voted to study the issue. United Tote's existing contract with NYRA expires on September 2, 2013. Should United Tote's existing contract with NYRA not be extended, it could have a negative impact on our business, financial conditions and results of operations.
California
Exchange Wagering
On September 23, 2010, the Governor of California signed a bill that approved exchange wagering on horseracing by California residents and on California racetracks. The bill makes California the first state to approve this type of wagering. Exchange wagering differs from pari-mutuel wagering in that it allows customers to propose their own odds on certain types of wagers on horseracing, including betting that a horse may lose, which may be accepted by a second customer.
The California Horse Racing Board (the “CHRB”) heard testimony on exchange wagering during February 2012. At its March 2012 meeting, the CHRB approved draft proposed exchange wagering regulations which were submitted for public comment. In June 2012, the CHRB decided to delay the implementation of exchange wagering stating that the regulations governing exchange wagering needed further examination. On September 20, 2012, the CHRB granted initial approval for rules governing exchange wagering subject to a public comment period. The proposed exchange wagering regulations were approved on November 15, 2012. The regulations are expected to be submitted to the Office of Administrative Law during February 2013 for review and final approval. Should the CHRB regulations reach final approval allowing exchange wagering, this activity may have a negative impact on our current pari-mutuel operations, including our ADW business. Furthermore, California’s approval of exchange wagering may set a precedent for other states to approve exchange wagering, creating additional risk of a negative impact on our pari-mutuel wagering business.
Internet Poker
In December 2012, Senate Bill 51 (“SB 51”) was introduced in the California Senate. The legislation would allow qualified gaming companies to apply for a five-year gaming license to operate an intrastate Internet gaming website to registered players within California. The legislation limits online gaming to poker only. On February 22, 2013, Senate Bill 678 ("SB 678") was introduced which would also permit Internet poker within the state. The potential effects of SB 51 and SB 678 on our business, financial condition and results of operations cannot be determined at this time.
Sports Betting
In February 2012, Senate Bill 1390 was introduced in the California Legislature. The legislation would have allowed all entities currently licensed to conduct gambling activities to apply to their regulatory agency and request that sports betting be added to their list of authorized gambling options. Indian tribes with existing casinos as well as tribes that did not currently have gaming compacts with the state would have been allowed to offer sports betting on their reservations. The bill was not considered prior to the adjournment of the 2012 legislative session. On February 7, 2013, Senate Bill 190 was introduced which would allow the operator of a gaming establishment, racetrack or satellite wagering facility to conduct wagering on professional and collegiate sports or athletic events upon licensing by the California Gaming Control Commission or California Horse Racing Board. Under the terms of the proposed bill, each licensed entity would remit 7.5% of its gross revenues to the state. The bill also authorizes a federally recognized Indian tribe that is not a gaming establishment or a racetrack to conduct sports wagering consistent with the requirements of the federal Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988, under terms no more stringent than those applicable to any other operator in the state. The potential effects of Senate Bill 190 on our business, financial condition and results of operations cannot be determined at this time.
Delaware
Gaming Legislation
During June 2012, the Delaware Gaming Competitiveness Act of 2012 (“HB 333”) was passed by the Delaware Legislation and
signed into law by Governor Markell. HB 333 enables Delaware casinos to offer a full range of legal online gambling options including Internet blackjack, poker and slots which are accessible through each casino's website and controlled centrally by the state lottery. Under the terms of HB 333, Delaware's existing racetracks will be able to offer online games via their websites. The legislation expands locations for National Football League wagering and keno. Individuals must be present in Delaware to play online games. The potential impact of HB 333 on our business, financial condition and results of operations cannot be determined at this time.
New Jersey
Atlantic City Wagering
During February 2012, Assembly Bill 2578 ("AB 2578") was introduced into the New Jersey legislature. AB 2578 allows Atlantic City casinos to offer Internet wagering on all casino-style games to persons present in New Jersey. The New Jersey horseracing industry was excluded from the bill's language and ineligible to participate as Internet providers, subcontractors, or beneficiaries of the anticipated revenue. AB 2578 passed both legislative chambers during 2012. On February 26, 2013, Governor Christie signed AB 2578 into law. The potential impact of AB 2578 on our business, financial condition and results of operation cannot be determined at this time.
Sports Betting
During 2011, New Jersey voters passed a non-binding referendum permitting sports betting in New Jersey. During 2012, legislation authorizing sports betting in Atlantic City casinos and at racetracks passed the House and Senate legislatures and was signed by Governor Christie. The National Football League, National Basketball Association, National Hockey League and National Collegiate Athletic Association have filed suit against the state to prohibit them from moving forward with the legislation, citing a federal ban against sports betting. On December 21, 2012, a federal judge denied New Jersey's request to have the lawsuit
dismissed. The judge agreed that expanding legal sports betting into New Jersey would negatively impact the perception of sporting games. The New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement issued final sports betting regulations, but the Division noted that no license would be issued prior to January 2013. The potential impact of sports betting in New Jersey on our business, financial condition and results of operation cannot be determined at this time.
L.
Environmental Matters
We are subject to various federal, state and local environmental laws and regulations that govern activities that may have adverse environmental effects, such as discharges to air and water, as well as the management and disposal of solid, animal and hazardous wastes and exposure to hazardous materials. These laws and regulations, which are complex and subject to change, include United States Environmental Protection Agency and state 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. For example, we may incur future costs under existing and new laws and regulations pertaining to storm water and wastewater management at our racetracks. Moreover, violations can result in significant penalties and, in some instances, interruption or cessation of operations.
We also are subject to laws and regulations that create liability and cleanup responsibility for releases of hazardous substances into the environment. Under certain of these laws and regulations, a current or previous owner or operator of property may be liable for the costs of remediating hazardous substances or petroleum products on its property, without regard to whether the owner or operator knew of, or caused, the presence of the contaminants, and regardless of whether the practices that resulted in the contamination were legal at the time they occurred. The presence of, or failure to remediate properly, such substances may materially adversely affect the ability to sell or rent such property or to borrow funds using such property as collateral. Additionally, the owner of a property may be subject to claims by third parties based on damages and costs resulting from environmental contamination emanating from the property.
Compliance with environmental laws has not materially affected our ability to develop and operate our properties, and we are not otherwise subject to any material compliance costs in connection with federal or state environmental laws.
M.
Service Marks and Internet Properties
We hold numerous state and federal service mark registrations on specific names and designs in various categories including the entertainment business, apparel, paper goods, printed matter, housewares and glass. We license the use of these service marks and derive revenue from such license agreements.
N.
Employees
As of December 31, 2012, we employed approximately 2,300 full-time employees Company-wide. Due to the seasonal nature of our live racing business, the number of seasonal and part-time persons employed will vary throughout the year. During 2012, average full-time and seasonal employment per pay period was approximately 4,100 individuals Company-wide.
O.
Internet Access
Our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, proxy statements and other Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) filings, and any amendments to those reports and any other filings that we file with or furnish to the SEC under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 are made available free of charge on our website (www.churchilldownsincorporated.com) as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file the materials with the SEC and are also available at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.
ITEM 1A.
ITEM 1A.
RISK FACTORS
Risks Related to the Company
In addition to risks and uncertainties in the ordinary course of business that are common to all businesses, important factors that are specific to our industry and Company could materially impact our future performance and results. The factors described below are the most significant risks that could materially impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.
General economic trends are unfavorable
The recent, economic downturn and adverse conditions in local, regional, national and global markets, including the current sovereign debt crises, have negatively impacted our operations and may continue to do so for an indeterminate period of time. Although economic conditions improved somewhat in 2012, there remains risk that the recovery will be short-lived, that the recovery may not include the industries or markets in which we operate, or the downturn may resume. Our access to, or cost of, credit may be impacted to the extent global and U.S. credit markets are affected by downward trends. Additionally, our ability to respond to periods of economic contraction may be limited, as certain of our costs remain fixed or even increase, when revenues decline. Accordingly, any persistence of poor economic conditions, or further deterioration, could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our business is sensitive to consumer confidence and reductions in consumers’ discretionary spending, which may result from the recent economic conditions, unemployment levels and other changes we cannot accurately predict
Demand for entertainment and leisure activities is sensitive to consumers’ disposable incomes, which have been adversely affected by recent economic conditions and the persistence of elevated levels of unemployment. Further declines in the residential real estate market, higher energy and transportation costs, changes in consumer confidence, increases in individual tax rates, and other factors that we cannot accurately predict may reduce the disposable income of our customers. This could result in fewer patrons visiting our racetracks, gaming and wagering facilities and online wagering sites, and may impact our customers’ ability to wager with the same frequency and maintain their wagering level profiles. Decreases in consumer discretionary spending could affect us even if it occurs in other markets. For example, reduced wagering levels and profitability at racetracks from which we carry racing content could cause certain racetracks to cancel races or cease operations and therefore reduce the content we could provide to our customers. Accordingly, any significant loss of customers or decline in wagering could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We are vulnerable to additional or increased taxes and fees
We believe that the prospect of raising significant additional revenue through taxes and fees is one of the primary reasons that certain jurisdictions permit legalized gaming. As a result, gaming companies are typically subject to significant taxes and fees in addition to the normal federal, state, provincial and local income taxes, and such taxes and fees may be increased at any time. From time to time, legislators and officials have proposed changes in tax laws, or in the administration of such laws, affecting the gaming industry. Moreover, many states and municipalities, including ones in which we operate, are currently experiencing budgetary pressures that may make it more likely they would seek to impose additional taxes and fees on our operations. It is not possible to determine with certainty the likelihood of any such changes in tax laws or fee increases, or their administration; however, if enacted, such changes could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our credit facilities contain restrictions that limit our flexibility in operating our business
Our credit facilities contain, and any future indebtedness of ours would likely contain, a number of covenants that impose significant operating and financial restrictions on us, including restrictions on our and our subsidiaries’ ability to, among other things:
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incur additional debt or issue certain preferred shares;
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pay dividends on or make distributions in respect of our capital stock, repurchase common shares or make other restricted payments;
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make certain investments;
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sell certain assets or consolidate, merge, sell or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of our assets;
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create liens on certain assets;
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enter into certain transactions with our affiliates; and
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designate our subsidiaries as unrestricted subsidiaries.
As a result of these covenants, we are limited in the manner in which we conduct our business, and we may be unable to engage in favorable business activities or finance future operations or capital needs.
We have pledged and will pledge a significant portion of our assets as collateral under our credit facilities. If any of these lenders accelerate the repayment of borrowings, there can be no assurance that we will have sufficient assets to repay our indebtedness and our lenders could proceed against the collateral we have granted them.
Under our credit facilities, we are required to satisfy and maintain specified financial ratios. Our ability to meet those financial ratios can be affected by events beyond our control, and there can be no assurance that we will meet those ratios. A failure to comply with the covenants contained in our credit facilities or our other indebtedness could result in an event of default under the facilities or the existing agreements, which, if not cured or waived, could have a material adverse affect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. In the event of any default under our credit facilities or our other indebtedness, the lenders thereunder:
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will not be required to lend any additional amounts to us;
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could elect to declare all borrowings outstanding, together with accrued and unpaid interest and fees, to be due and payable and terminate all commitments to extend further credit; or
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require us to apply all of our available cash to repay these borrowings.
If the indebtedness under our credit facilities or our other indebtedness were to be accelerated, there can be no assurance that our assets would be sufficient to repay such indebtedness in full.
We may not be able to identify and complete acquisition, expansion or divestiture projects on time, on budget or as planned
We expect to pursue expansion, acquisition and divestiture opportunities, and we regularly evaluate opportunities for development, including acquisitions or other strategic corporate transactions which may expand our business operations.
We could face challenges in identifying development projects that fit our strategic objectives, identifying potential acquisition or divestiture candidates and/or development partners, finding buyers, negotiating projects on acceptable terms, and managing and integrating the acquisition or development projects. The integration of new operations and any other properties we may acquire or develop will require the dedication of management resources that may temporarily divert attention from our day-to-day business. The process of integrating new properties or projects may also interrupt the activities of those businesses, which could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations. The divestiture of existing businesses may be affected by our ability to identify potential buyers. Furthermore, current or future regulation may postpone a divestiture pending certain resolutions to federal, state or local legislative issues. We cannot assure that any new properties or developments will be completed or integrated successfully.
Management of new properties or business operations, especially those in new lines of business or different geographic areas, may require that we increase our managerial resources. We cannot assure that we will be able to manage the combined operations effectively or realize any of the anticipated benefits of our acquisitions or developments.
We may experience difficulty in integrating recent or future acquisitions into our operations
We have completed acquisition transactions in the past and we may pursue acquisitions from time to time in the future. The successful integration of newly acquired businesses, including our recent acquisitions of Riverwalk and Bluff, into our operations has required and will continue to require the expenditure of substantial managerial, operating, financial and other resources and may also lead to a diversion of our attention from our ongoing business concerns. We may not be able to successfully integrate new businesses or realize projected revenue gains, cost savings and synergies in connection with those acquisitions on the timetable contemplated, if at all. Furthermore, the costs of integrating businesses we acquire could significantly impact our short-term operating results. These costs could include:
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restructuring charges associated with the acquisitions;
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non-recurring acquisition costs, including accounting and legal fees, investment banking fees and recognition of transaction-related costs or liabilities; and
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costs of imposing financial and management controls (such as compliance with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002) and operating, administrative and information systems.
Although we perform financial, operational and legal diligence on the businesses we purchase, in light of the circumstances of each transaction, an unavoidable level of risk remains regarding the actual condition of these businesses and our ability to continue to operate them successfully and integrate them into our existing operations. In any acquisition we make, we face risks
which include:
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the risk that the acquired business may not further our business strategy or that we paid more than the business was worth;
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the potential adverse impact on our relationships with partner companies or third-party providers of technology or products;
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the possibility that we have acquired substantial undisclosed liabilities for which we may have no recourse against the sellers or third party insurers;
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costs and complications in maintaining required regulatory approvals or obtaining further regulatory approvals necessary to implement the acquisition in accordance with our strategy;
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the risks of acquiring businesses and/or entering markets in which we have limited or no prior experience;
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the potential loss of key employees or customers;
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the possibility that we may be unable to retain or recruit managers with the necessary skills to manage the acquired businesses; and
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changes to legal and regulatory guidelines, which may negatively affect acquisitions.
If we are unsuccessful in overcoming these risks, it could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We may adversely infringe on the intellectual property rights of others
In the course of our business, we may become aware of potentially relevant patents or other intellectual property rights held by other parties. Many of our competitors as well as other companies and individuals have obtained, and may obtain in the future, patents or other intellectual property rights that concern products or services related to the types of products and services we currently offer or may plan to offer in the future. We evaluate the validity and applicability of these intellectual property rights and determine in each case whether we must negotiate licenses to incorporate or use the proprietary technologies in our products. Claims of intellectual property infringement may also require us to enter into costly royalty or license agreements. However, we may not be able to obtain royalty or license agreements on terms acceptable to us or at all. We also may be subject to significant damages or injunctions against the development and sale of our products and services if we become subject to litigation relating to intellectual property infringement.
Our results may be affected by the outcome of litigation within our industry and the protection and validity of our intellectual property rights. Any litigation regarding patents or other intellectual property could be costly and time consuming and could divert our management and key personnel from our business operations. The complexity of the technology involved and the uncertainty of litigation surrounding it has the effect of increasing the risks associated with certain of our product offerings, particularly in the area of advance deposit wagering, or ADW. There can be no assurance that we would not become a party to litigation surrounding our ADW business or that such litigation would not cause us to suffer losses or disruption in our business strategy.
We are susceptible to unauthorized disclosure of our source code
We may not be able to protect our computer source code from being copied if there is an unauthorized disclosure of source code. We take significant measures to protect the secrecy of large portions of our source code. If unauthorized disclosure of a significant portion of our source code occurs, we could potentially lose future trade secret protection for that source code. This could make it easier for third parties to compete with our products by copying functionality; which could adversely affect our revenue and operating margins. Unauthorized disclosure of source code also could increase security risks.
We depend on key personnel
Our continued success and our ability to maintain our competitive position is largely dependent upon, among other things, the skills and efforts of our senior executives and management team including Robert L. Evans, our Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer. Although we have entered into employment agreements with certain of our senior executives and key personnel, we cannot guarantee that these individuals will remain with us, and their retention is affected by the competitiveness of our terms of employment and our ability to compete effectively against other gaming companies. In addition, certain of our key employees are required to file applications with the gaming authorities in each of the jurisdictions in which we operate and are required to be licensed or found suitable by these gaming authorities. If the gaming authorities were to find a key employee unsuitable for licensing, we may be required to sever the employee relationship. Furthermore, the gaming authorities may require us to terminate the employment of any person who refuses to file appropriate applications. Either result could significantly impair our operations. Our inability to retain key personnel could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Catastrophic events could cause a significant and continued disruption to our operations
A disruption or failure in our systems or operations in the event of a major earthquake, weather event, cyber-attack, terrorist attack or other catastrophic event could interrupt our operations, damage our properties and reduce the number of customers who visit our facilities in the affected areas. For example, Churchill Downs, Harlow’s, Riverwalk, Fair Grounds and its related OTBs and Calder could all be adversely affected by flooding or hurricanes. While we maintain insurance coverage that may cover certain of the costs that we incur as a result of some natural disasters, our coverage is subject to deductibles, exclusions and limits on maximum benefits. There can be no assurance that we will be able to fully collect, if at all, on any claims resulting from extreme weather conditions or other disasters. If any of our properties are damaged or if their operations are disrupted or face prolonged closure as a result of natural disasters in the future, or if natural disasters adversely impact general economic or other conditions in the areas in which our properties are located or from which they draw their patrons, the disruption could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Although we have “all risk” property insurance coverage for our operating properties, which covers damage caused by a casualty loss (such as fire, natural disasters, acts of war, or terrorism), each policy has certain exclusions. Our level of property insurance coverage, which is subject to policy maximum limits, may not be adequate to cover all losses in the event of a major casualty. In addition, certain casualty events may not be covered at all under our policies. Therefore, certain acts could expose us to substantial uninsured losses.
We renew our insurance policies on an annual basis. The cost of coverage may become so high that we may need to further reduce our policy limits or agree to certain exclusions from our coverage.
Our debt instruments and other material agreements require us to meet certain standards related to insurance coverage. Failure to satisfy these requirements could result in an event of default under these debt instruments or material agreements.
Work stoppages and other labor problems could negatively impact our future plans
Some of our employees are represented by labor unions. A strike or other work stoppage at one of our properties could have an adverse effect on our business and results of operations. From time to time, we have also experienced attempts to unionize certain of our non-union employees. We cannot provide any assurance that we will not experience additional and more successful union activity in the future.
We process, store and use personal information and other data, which subjects us to governmental regulation and other legal obligations related to privacy, and our actual or perceived failure to comply with such obligations could harm our business
We receive, store and process personal information and other customer data. There are numerous federal, state and local laws regarding privacy and the storing, sharing, use, processing, disclosure and protection of personal information and other data. Any failure or perceived failure by us to comply with our privacy policies, our privacy-related obligations to customers or other third parties, or our privacy-related legal obligations, or any compromise of security that results in the unauthorized release or transfer of personally identifiable information or other player data, may result in governmental enforcement actions, litigation or public statements against us by consumer advocacy groups or others and could cause our customers to lose trust in us, which could have an adverse effect on our business. While the Company maintains insurance coverage specific to cyber-insurance matters, any failure on our part to maintain adequate safeguards may subject us to significant liabilities. Additionally, if third parties we work with, such as vendors, violate applicable laws or our policies, such violations may also put our customers’ information at risk and could in turn have an adverse effect on our business. The Company is also subject to payment card association rules and obligations under its contracts with payment card processors. Under these rules and obligations, if information is compromised, the Company could be liable to payment card issuers for the associated expense and penalties. In addition, if the Company fails to follow payment card industry security standards, even if no customer information is
compromised, the Company could incur significant fines or experience a significant increase in payment card transaction costs.
In the area of information security and data protection, many states have passed laws requiring notification to customers when there is a security breach for personal data, such as the 2002 amendment to California’s Information Practices Act, or requiring the adoption of minimum information security standards that are often vaguely defined and difficult to practically implement. The costs of compliance with these laws may increase in the future as a result of changes in interpretation. Furthermore, any failure on our part to comply with these laws may subject us to significant liabilities.
Improper disclosure of personal data could result in liability and harm to our reputation
We store and process increasingly large amounts of personally identifiable information of our customers, which may include names, addresses, phone numbers, social security numbers, email addresses, contact preferences and payment account information. For example, we store personal information from Twinspires.com account holders, from our gaming customers’ rewards accounts and from ticket sales at our racetracks. It is possible our security controls over personal data, our training of employees and vendors on data security, and other practices we follow may not prevent the improper disclosure of personally identifiable information. Improper disclosure of this information could harm our reputation, lead to legal exposure to customers or subject us to liability under laws that protect personal data, resulting in increased costs or loss of revenue.
Our business is subject to online security risk, including security breaches
We store and transmit users' proprietary information, and security breaches could expose us to a risk of loss or misuse of this information, litigation and potential liability. Because the techniques used to obtain unauthorized access, disable or degrade service, or sabotage systems, change frequently and often are not recognized until launched against a target, we may be unable to anticipate these techniques or to implement adequate preventative measures. If an actual or perceived breach of our security occurs, public perception of the effectiveness of our security measures could be harmed and we could lose users and be exposed to litigation or potential liability for us. Although we have developed systems and processes that are designed to protect customer information and prevent data loss and other security breaches, including systems and processes designed to reduce the impact of a security breach at a third party vendor, such measures cannot provide absolute security.
Any violation of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act or applicable anti-money laundering regulations could have a negative impact on us
We are subject to regulations imposed by the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (the “FCPA”), which generally prohibits U.S. companies and their intermediaries from making improper payments to foreign officials for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business. Any violation of FCPA regulations could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We also deal with significant amounts of cash in our operations and are subject to various reporting and anti-money laundering regulations. Any violation of anti-money laundering laws or regulations by any of our properties could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
A lack of confidence in the integrity of our core businesses could affect our ability to retain our customers and engage with new customers
The integrity of the horseracing, gaming and pari-mutuel wagering industries must be perceived as fair to patrons and the public at large. To prevent cheating or erroneous payouts, the necessary oversight processes must be in place to ensure that such activities cannot be manipulated. A loss of confidence in the fairness of our industries could significantly lower attendance, amounts wagered and reduce revenues.
Risks Related to Our Racing Operations
Our racing operations are highly regulated, and changes in the regulatory environment could adversely affect our business
Our racing business is subject to extensive state and local regulation, and we depend on continued state approval of legalized gaming in states where we operate. Our wagering and racing facilities must meet the licensing requirements of various regulatory authorities, including authorities in Kentucky, Illinois, Louisiana and Florida. To date, we have obtained all governmental licenses, registrations, permits and approvals necessary for the operation of our racetracks. However, we may be unable to maintain our existing licenses. The failure to attain, loss of or material change in our racing business licenses, registrations, permits or approvals may materially limit the number of races we conduct, and could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
In addition to licensing requirements, state regulatory authorities can have a significant impact on the operation of our business. For example, in Florida, a thoroughbred racetrack conducting a live meet has control over hosting out-of-state racing signals
and receives commissions on wagers placed at other racetracks throughout the state. When two thoroughbred racetracks operate live meets concurrently, both have the opportunity to be the “host track” for out-of-state signals, and other Florida racetracks must choose a single live racetrack to host their pari-mutuel wagering. Calder is the only live racetrack in Florida for the majority of its racing season and it could be adversely affected if another track conducted a meet with more overlapping dates. Likewise, in Illinois the IRB has the authority to designate racetracks as “host track” for the purpose of receiving host track revenues generated during periods when no racetrack is conducting live races. Racetracks that are designated as “host track” obtain and distribute out of state simulcast signals for the State of Illinois. Under Illinois law, the “host track” is entitled to a larger portion of commissions on the related pari-mutuel wagering. Should Arlington or Calder cease to be as “host tracks” during these periods, the loss of hosting revenue could have an adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, Arlington is statutorily entitled to recapture as revenues monies that are otherwise payable to Arlington’s purse account. These statutorily or regulatory established revenue sources are subject to change every legislative session, and their reduction or elimination could have an adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We are also subject to a variety of other rules and regulations, including zoning, environmental, construction and land-use laws and regulations governing the serving of alcoholic beverages. If we are not in compliance with these laws, it could have a material, adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Economic trends specific to the horse racing industry are unfavorable
Horseracing and related activities, as well as the gaming services we provide, are similar to other leisure activities in that they represent discretionary expenditures likely to decline during economic downturns. In some cases, even the perception of an impending economic downturn or the continuation of a recessionary climate can be enough to discourage consumers from spending on leisure activities. These economic trends can impact the financial viability of other industry constituents, making collection of amounts owed to us uncertain. For example, during the year ended December 31, 2010, we recognized $1.1 million of bad debt expense, net of purses, resulting from the bankruptcy filing of New York City Off-Track Betting Corporation (“NYCOTB”). During 2009, NYCOTB filed for Chapter 9 bankruptcy and on January 25, 2011, its Chapter 9 bankruptcy case was dismissed by the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York, and NYCOTB ceased operations. We will continue to closely monitor participants’ operational viability within the industry and any related collection issues which could potentially have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition or results of operations.
Our racing business faces significant competition, and we expect competition levels to increase
All of our racetracks face competition from a variety of sources, including spectator sports and other entertainment and gaming options. Competitive gaming activities include traditional and Native American casinos, video lottery terminals, state-sponsored lotteries and other forms of legalized and non-legalized gaming in the U.S. and other jurisdictions, and we expect the number of competitors to increase. See subheading “J. Competition” in Item 1. “Business” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further discussion of racing industry competition.
All of our racetracks face competition in the simulcast market. Approximately 46,000 thoroughbred horse races are conducted annually in the United States. Of these races, we host approximately 4,000 races each year, or around nine percent of the total. As a content provider, we compete for wagering dollars in the simulcast market with other racetracks conducting races at or near the same times as our races. As a racetrack operator, we also compete with other racetracks running live meets at or near the same time as our horse races. In recent years, this competition has increased as more states have allowed additional, automated gaming activities, such as slot machines, at racetracks with mandatory purse contributions.
Calder Race Course faces direct competition from another thoroughbred racetrack in Miami, Florida. The two racetracks are located approximately 6.5 miles apart. Under Florida law, racetracks are permitted to race throughout the year, subject to an annual notification filed with the State of Florida on February 28th of each year. As a result, Calder and the other racetrack, respectively, may independently elect to host live races on the same days. Historically, hosting live races on the same day as the other track has had a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Competition from web-based businesses presents additional challenges for our racing business. Unlike most online and web-based gaming companies, our racetracks require significant and ongoing capital expenditures for both their continued operations and expansion. Our racing business also faces significantly greater costs in operating our racing business compared to costs borne by these gaming companies. Our racing business cannot offer the same number of gaming options as online and Internet-based gaming companies. Many online and web-based gaming companies are based off-shore and avoid regulation under U.S. state and federal laws. These companies may divert wagering dollars from pari-mutuel wagering venues, such as our racetracks. Our inability to compete successfully with these competitors could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
The popularity of horse racing is declining
There has been a general decline in the number of people attending and wagering on live horse races at North American racetracks due to a number of factors, including increased competition from other wagering and entertainment alternatives as discussed above. According to Equibase, pari-mutuel handle in the U.S. declined 7.3% between 2010 and 2009, declined 5.7% between 2011 and 2010 and remained fairly flat during 2012, increasing 1.0% compared to the same period in 2011. We believe lower interest in racing may have a negative impact on revenues and profitability in our racing business, as well as our ADW business, which is dependent on racing content provided by our racing business and other track operators. Our business plan anticipates that we will attract new customers to our racetracks, OTBs and ADW operations. A continued decrease in attendance at live events and in on-track wagering, or a continued generalized decline in interest in racing, could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our racing business is geographically concentrated and experiences significant seasonal fluctuations in operating results
We conduct our racing business at four racetracks: Churchill Downs, Calder, Fair Grounds and Arlington. A significant portion of our racing revenues are generated by two events, the Kentucky Derby and the Kentucky Oaks. If a business interruption were to occur and continue for a significant length of time at any of our four racetracks, particularly one occurring at Churchill Downs at a time that would affect the Kentucky Derby or Kentucky Oaks, it could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
In addition, we experience significant fluctuations in quarterly and annual operating results due to seasonality and other factors. We have a limited number of live racing days at our racetracks, and the number of live racing days varies from year to year. The number of live racing days we are able to offer directly affects our results of operations. A significant decrease in the number of live racing days and/or live races, including the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks, could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We may not be able to attract a sufficient number of horses and trainers to achieve full field horseraces
We believe that patrons prefer to wager on races with a large number of horses, commonly referred to as full fields. A failure to offer races with full fields results in less wagering on our horseraces. Our ability to attract full fields depends on several factors. It depends on our ability to offer and fund competitive purses and it also depends on the overall horse population available for racing. Various factors have led to declines in the horse population in certain areas of the country, including competition from racetracks in other areas, increased costs and changing economic returns for owners and breeders, and the spread of various debilitating and contagious equine diseases such as the neurologic form of Equine Herpes Virus-I and Strangles. If any of our racetracks is faced with a sustained outbreak of a contagious equine disease, it would have a material impact on our profitability. Finally, if we are unable to attract horse owners to stable and race their horses at our racetracks by offering a competitive environment, including improved facilities, well-maintained racetracks, better conditions for backstretch personnel involved in the care and training of horses stabled at our racetracks and a competitive purse structure, our profitability could also decrease.
We also face increased competition for horses and trainers from racetracks that are licensed to operate slot machines and other electronic gaming machines that provide these racetracks an advantage in generating new additional revenues for race purses and capital improvements. For example, Churchill Downs and Arlington are experiencing heightened competition from racinos in Indiana, Pennsylvania, Delaware and West Virginia whose purses are supplemented by gaming revenues. The opening of the Genting New York Resort at Aqueduct racetrack has enhanced the purse structure at New York racetracks as compared to historical levels. Ohio has authorized four land-based casinos by voter referendum and video lottery terminals at seven Ohio racetracks through executive order. Our failure to attract full fields could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Inclement weather and other conditions may affect our ability to conduct live racing
Since horseracing is conducted outdoors, unfavorable weather conditions, including extremely high and low temperatures, high winds, storms, tornadoes and hurricanes, could cause events to be canceled and/or attendance to be lower, resulting in reduced wagering. Our operations are subject to reduced patronage, disruptions or complete cessation of operations due to weather conditions, natural disasters and other casualties. If a business interruption were to occur due to inclement weather and continue for a significant length of time at any of our racetracks, it could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We depend on agreements with industry constituents including horsemen and other racetracks
The IHA, as well as various state racing laws, require that we have written agreements with the horsemen at our racetracks in order to simulcast races, and, in some cases, conduct live racing. Certain industry groups negotiate these agreements on behalf of the horsemen (the “Horsemen’s Groups”). These agreements provide that we must receive the consent of the Horsemen’s
Groups at the racetrack conducting live races before we may allow third parties to accept wagers on those races. In addition, the agreements between other racetracks and their Horsemen’s Groups typically provide that those racetracks must receive consent from the Horsemen’s Groups before we can accept wagers on their races. For example, from time to time, the Thoroughbred Owners of California, the Horsemen’s Group representing horsemen in California, the Florida Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association, Inc. (the “FHBPA”) which represents horsemen in Florida and the Kentucky Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (“KHBPA”) have withheld their consent to send or receive racing signals among racetracks. Further, the IHA and various state laws require that we have written agreements with Horsemen’s Groups at our racetracks in order to simulcast races on an export basis. In addition, our simulcasting agreements are generally subject to the consent of these Horsemen’s Groups. Failure to receive the consent of these Horsemen’s Groups for new and renewing simulcast agreements could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We also have written agreements with the Horsemen’s Groups with regards to the proceeds of gaming machines in Louisiana and Florida. Florida law requires Calder to have an agreement with the FHBPA governing the contribution of a portion of revenues from slot machine gaming to purses on live thoroughbred races conducted at Calder and an agreement with the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders and Owners Association (the “FTBOA”) governing the contribution of a portion of revenues from slot machines gaming to breeders’, stallion, and special racing awards on live thoroughbred races conducted at Calder before Calder can receive a license to conduct slot machine gaming.
It is not certain that we will be able to maintain agreements with, or to obtain required consent from, Horsemen’s Groups. We currently negotiate formal agreements with the applicable Horsemen’s Groups at Fair Grounds, Arlington and Calder on an annual basis. The failure to maintain agreements with, or obtain consents from, our horsemen on satisfactory terms or the refusal by a Horsemen’s Group to consent to third parties accepting wagers on our races or our accepting wagers on third parties’ races could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
In addition, we have agreements with other racetracks for the distribution of racing content through both the import of other racetracks’ signals for wagering at our properties and the export of our racing signal for wagering at other racetracks’ facilities. From time to time, we are unable to reach agreements on terms acceptable to us. As a result, we may be unable to distribute our racing content to other locations or to receive other racetracks’ racing content for wagering at our racetracks. The inability to distribute our racing content could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Horse racing is an inherently dangerous sport and our racetracks are subject to personal injury litigation
Although we carry jockey accident insurance at each of our racetracks to cover personal jockey injuries which may occur during races or daily workouts, there are certain exclusions to our insurance coverage, and we are still subject to litigation from injured participants. We renew our insurance policies on an annual basis. The cost of coverage may become so high that we may need to further reduce our policy limits or agree to certain exclusions from our coverage. Our results may be affected by the outcome of litigation, as this litigation could be costly and time consuming and could divert our management and key personnel from our business operations.
Ownership and development of real estate requires significant expenditures and is subject to risk
Our racing operations require us to own extensive real estate holdings. All real estate investments are subject to risks including: general economic conditions, such as the availability and cost of financing; local and national real estate conditions, such as an oversupply of residential, office, retail or warehousing space, or a reduction in demand for real estate in the area; governmental regulation, including taxation of property and environmental legislation; and the attractiveness of properties to potential purchasers or tenants. The real estate industry is also capital intensive and sensitive to interest rates. Further, significant expenditures, including property taxes, mortgage payments, maintenance costs, insurance costs and related charges, must be made throughout the period of ownership of real property, which expenditures negatively impact our operating results.
In addition, we are subject to a variety of federal, state and local governmental laws and regulations relating to the use, storage, discharge, emission and disposal of hazardous materials. Environmental laws and regulations could hold us responsible for the cost of cleaning up hazardous materials contaminating real property that we own or operate (or previously owned or operated) or properties at which we have disposed of hazardous materials, even if we did not cause the contamination. If we fail to comply with environmental laws or if contamination is discovered, a court or government agency could impose severe penalties or restrictions on our operations or assess us with the costs of taking remedial actions.
Our business depends on utilizing and providing totalizator services
Our customers utilize information provided by United Tote and other totalizator companies that accumulates wagers, records sales, calculates payoffs and displays wagering data in a secure manner to patrons who wager on our horseraces. The failure to keep technology current could limit our ability to serve patrons effectively or develop new forms of wagering and/or affect the security of the wagering process, thus affecting patron confidence in our product. A perceived lack of integrity in the wagering
systems could result in a decline in bettor confidence and could lead to a decline in the amount wagered on horseracing. In addition, a totalizator system failure could cause a considerable loss of revenue if betting machines are unavailable for a significant period of time or during an event with high betting volume.
United Tote also has contracts to provide totalizator services to a significant number of racetracks, OTBs and other pari-mutuel wagering businesses. Its totalizator systems provide wagering data to the industry in a secure manner. Errors by United Tote technology or personnel may subject us to liabilities, including financial penalties under our totalizator service contracts, which could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Risks Related to Our Gaming Business
Our gaming business is highly regulated and changes in the regulatory environment could adversely affect our business
Our gaming operations exist at the discretion of the states where we conduct business, and are subject to extensive state and local regulation. Like all gaming operators in the jurisdictions in which we operate, we must periodically apply to renew our gaming licenses or registrations and have the suitability of certain of our directors, officers and employees approved. While we have obtained all governmental licenses, registrations, permits and approvals necessary for the operation of our gaming facilities, we cannot assure you that we will be able to obtain such renewals or approvals, or that we will be able to obtain future approvals that would allow us to continue to operate or to expand our gaming operations.
Regulatory authorities also have input into important aspects of our operations, including hours of operation, location or relocation of a facility, numbers and types of machines and loss limits. Regulators may also levy substantial fines against or seize our assets or the assets of our subsidiaries or the people involved in violating gaming laws or regulations. Any of these events could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. The high degree of regulation in the gaming industry is a significant obstacle to our growth strategy.
Our gaming business faces significant competition, and we expect competition levels to increase
Our gaming operations operate in a highly competitive industry with a large number of participants, some of which have financial and other resources that are greater than our resources. The gaming industry faces competition from a variety of sources for discretionary consumer spending including spectator sports and other entertainment and gaming options. Our gaming operations also face competition from Native American casinos, video lottery terminals, state-sponsored lotteries and other forms of legalized gaming in the U.S. and other jurisdictions. We do not enjoy the same access to the gaming public or possess the advertising resources that are available to state-sponsored lotteries or other competitors, which may adversely affect our ability to compete effectively with them. Additionally, web-based interactive gaming and wagering is growing rapidly and affecting competition in our industry as federal regulations on web-based activities are clarified. We anticipate that competition will continue to grow in the web-based interactive gaming and wagering channels because of ease of entry. In addition, Florida legislators continue to debate the expansion of Florida gaming to include Las Vegas-style destination resort casinos. Such casinos may be subject to taxation rates lower than the current gaming taxation structure. Should such legislation be enacted, it could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations. See subheading “J. Competition” in Item 1. “Business” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further discussion of gaming industry competition.
Our gaming business is geographically concentrated
We conduct our gaming business at four principal locations: Riverwalk in Vicksburg, Mississippi, Harlow’s in Greenville, Mississippi, Calder Casino in Miami Gardens, Florida, and Fair Grounds Slots in New Orleans, Louisiana. We also operate video poker machines throughout Louisiana through our subsidiary, VSI. If a business interruption were to occur and continue for a significant length of time at any of our principal gaming operations, or if economic or regulatory conditions were to become unfavorable in one or more of the regions in which they operate, it could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
The development of new gaming venues and the expansion of existing facilities is costly and susceptible to delays, cost overruns and other uncertainties
The Company may decide to develop, construct and open hotels, casinos or other gaming venues in response to opportunities that may arise. Future development projects and acquisitions may require significant capital commitments, the incurrence of additional debt, the incurrence of contingent liabilities and an increase in amortization expense related to intangible assets, which could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
The concentration and evolution of the slot machine manufacturing industry or other technological conditions could impose additional costs on us
The majority of our gaming revenues are attributable to slot and video poker machines operated by us at our casinos and wagering facilities. It is important for competitive reasons that we offer the most popular and up-to-date machine games with the latest technology to our guests. In recent years, the prices of new machines have escalated faster than the rate of inflation. In recent years, for example, slot machine manufacturers have frequently refused to sell slot machines featuring the most popular games, instead requiring participating lease arrangements in order to acquire the machines. Participation slot machine leasing arrangements typically require the payment of a fixed daily rental. Such agreements may also include a percentage payment of coin-in or net win. Generally, a participating lease is substantially more expensive over the long term than the cost to purchase a new machine. For competitive reasons, we may be forced to purchase new slot machines or enter into participating lease arrangements that are more expensive than the costs associated with the continued operation of our existing slot machines.
We materially rely on a variety of hardware and software products to maximize revenue and efficiency in our operations. Technology in the gaming industry is developing rapidly, and we may need to invest substantial amounts to acquire the most current gaming and hotel technology and equipment in order to remain competitive in the markets in which we operate. We rely on a limited number of vendors to provide video poker and slot machines and any loss of our equipment suppliers could impact our operations. Ensuring the successful implementation and maintenance of any new technology acquired is an additional risk.
Risks Related to Our Online Business
Our ADW business is highly regulated and changes in the regulatory environment could adversely affect our business
TwinSpires, our ADW business, accepts advance deposit wagers from customers of certain states who set up and fund an account from which they may place wagers via telephone, mobile device or through the Internet at TwinSpires.com. The ADW business is heavily regulated, and laws governing advance deposit wagering vary from state to state. Some states have expressly authorized advance deposit wagering by their own residents, some states have expressly prohibited pari-mutuel wagering and/or advance deposit wagering and other states have expressly authorized pari-mutuel wagering but have neither expressly authorized nor expressly prohibited their residents from placing wagers through advance deposit wagering hubs located in different states. We believe that an ADW business may open accounts on behalf of and accept wagering instructions from residents of states where pari-mutuel wagering is legal and where providing wagering instructions to ADW businesses in other states is not expressly prohibited by statute, regulations, or other governmental restrictions. However, state attorneys general, regulators, and other law enforcement officials may interpret state gaming laws, federal statutes, constitutional principles, and doctrines, and the related regulations in a different manner than we do. In the past, certain state attorneys general and other law enforcement officials have expressed concern over the legality of interstate advance deposit wagering.
Our expansion opportunities with respect to advance deposit wagering may be limited unless more states amend their laws or regulations to permit advance deposit wagering. Conversely, if states take affirmative action to make advance deposit wagering expressly unlawful, this could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations. For example, previously existing ADW regulation in Illinois expired on December 31, 2012, and we ceased accepting wagers from Illinois residents in January 2013. In addition, the regulatory and legislative processes can be lengthy, costly and uncertain. We may not be successful in lobbying state legislatures or regulatory bodies to obtain or renew required legislation, licenses, registrations, permits and approvals necessary to facilitate the operation or expansion of our ADW business. From time to time, the United States Congress has considered legislation that would either inhibit or restrict Internet gambling in general or inhibit or restrict the use of certain financial instruments, including credit cards, to provide funds for advance deposit wagering.
Furthermore, many states have considered and are considering interactive and Internet gaming legislation and regulations, which may inhibit our ability to do business in such states. Anti-gaming conclusions and recommendations of other governmental or quasi-governmental bodies could form the basis for new laws, regulations, and enforcement policies that could have a material, adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations. The extensive regulation by both state and federal authorities of gaming activities also can be significantly affected by changes in the political climate and changes in economic and regulatory policies. Such effects could have a material, adverse impact to the success of our advance deposit wagering operations.
Our ADW business is subject to a variety of U.S. and foreign laws, many of which are unsettled and still developing and which could subject us to claims or otherwise harm our business
We are subject to a variety of laws in the United States and abroad, including laws regarding gaming, consumer protection and intellectual property that are continuously evolving and developing. The scope and interpretation of the laws that are or may be applicable to us are often uncertain and may be conflicting. For example, laws relating to the liability of providers of online services for activities of their users and other third parties are currently being tested by a number of claims, including actions
based on invasion of privacy and other torts, unfair competition, copyright and trademark infringement, and other theories. It is also likely that as our business grows and evolves we will become subject to laws and regulations in additional jurisdictions.
If we are not able to comply with these laws or regulations or if we become liable under these laws or regulations, we could be directly harmed, and we may be forced to implement new measures to reduce our exposure to this liability. This may require us to expend substantial resources or to modify our online services, which could harm our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, the increased attention focused upon liability issues as a result of lawsuits and legislative proposals could harm our reputation or otherwise impact the growth of our business.
It is possible that a number of laws and regulations may be adopted or construed to apply to us in the United States and elsewhere that could restrict the online and mobile industries, including player privacy, advertising, taxation, content suitability, copyright, distribution and antitrust. Furthermore, the growth and development of electronic commerce and virtual goods may prompt calls for more stringent consumer protection laws that may impose additional burdens on companies such as ours conducting business through the Internet and mobile devices. We anticipate that scrutiny and regulation of our industry will increase and we will be required to devote legal and other resources to addressing such regulation. If that were to occur, we may be required to seek licenses, authorizations or approvals from relevant regulators, the granting of which may be dependent on us meeting certain capital and other requirements and we may be subject to additional regulation and oversight, all of which could significantly increase our operating costs. Changes in current laws or regulations or the imposition of new laws and regulations in the United States or elsewhere regarding these activities may lessen the growth of online gaming and impair our business.
Our ADW business faces strong competition, and we expect competition levels to increase
Our ADW business is sensitive to changes and improvements to technology and new products and faces strong competition from other web-based interactive gaming and wagering businesses. Our ability to develop, implement and react to new technology and products for our ADW business is a key factor in our ability to compete with other ADW businesses. In addition, we face competition from a new wagering product called exchange wagering, a variation of pari-mutuel wagering in which bettors wager directly against one another, establishing their own odds on a horserace. Both California and New Jersey legislatures have approved exchange wagering. Some of our competitors may have greater resources than we do. In addition, we believe that new competitors may enter the ADW business with relative ease because of the low cost of entry. As a result, we anticipate increased competition in our ADW business. It is difficult to predict the impact of increased competition on our ADW business. See subheading “J. Competition” in Item 1. “Business” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further discussion of ADW industry competition.
A recent clarification on the impact of the Federal Wire Act of 1961 on Internet gaming could increase competition
During 2011, the U.S. Department of Justice clarified its position on the Wire Act of 1961 (the “Wire Act”), which had historically been interpreted to outlaw all forms of gambling across states lines. The department’s Office of Legal Counsel determined that the Wire Act applied only to a sporting event or contest, but did not apply to other forms of Internet gambling, including online betting unrelated to sporting events. The Justice Department indicated that many forms of online gambling could become legal under federal law, which could include legalized poker and generalized gaming including state lottery wagering. As a result, we anticipate increased competition to our ADW business from various other forms of online gaming. It is difficult to predict the level of increased competition and the impact of increased competition on our ADW business.
Our inability to retain our core customer base or our failure to attract new customers could harm our business
We utilize technology and marketing relationships to retain current customers and attract new customers. If we are unable to retain our core customer base through robust content offerings and other popular features, if we lose customers to our competitors, or if we fail to attract new customers, our businesses would fail to grow or would be adversely affected.
System failures or damage from earthquakes, fires, floods, power loss, telecommunications failures, cyber-attack or other unforeseen events could harm our business
Our ADW business depends upon our communications hardware and our computer hardware. We have built certain redundancies into our systems to avoid downtime in the event of outages, system failures or damage; however, certain risks still exist. Thus, our systems remain vulnerable to damage or interruption from floods, fires, power loss, telecommunication failures, terrorist cyber-attacks, hardware or software error, computer viruses, computer denial-of-service attacks and similar events. Despite any precautions we may take, the occurrence of a natural disaster or other unanticipated problems could result in lengthy interruptions in our services. Any unscheduled interruption in the availability of our website and our services results in an immediate, and possibly substantial, loss of revenue. Interruptions in our services or a breach of customers’ secure data could cause current or potential users to believe that our systems are unreliable, leading them to switch to our competitors or to avoid our site, and could permanently harm our reputation and brand. These interruptions also increase the burden on our engineering staff, which,
in turn, could delay our introduction of new features and services on our website. We have property and business interruption insurance covering damage or interruption of our systems. However, this insurance might not be sufficient to compensate us for all losses that may occur.
Security breaches, computer viruses and computer hacking attacks could harm our business and results of operations
Security breaches, computer malware and computer hacking attacks have become more prevalent in our industry. Many companies, including ours, have been the target of such attacks. Any security breach caused by hacking, which involves efforts to gain unauthorized access to information or systems, or to cause intentional malfunctions or loss or corruption of data, software, hardware or other computer equipment, and the inadvertent transmission of computer viruses could harm our business, financial condition and results of operations. Though it is difficult to determine what harm may directly result from any specific interruption or breach, any failure to maintain performance, reliability, security and availability of our network infrastructure to the satisfaction of our players may harm our reputation and our ability to retain existing players and attract new players.
We carry insurance covering many of these risks, including network security, first party extortion threats and business interruptions, but there are certain exclusions to this coverage and the insurance limits may not be sufficient to fully mitigate all financial damage to the Company. We renew our insurance policies on an annual basis. The cost of coverage may become so high that we may need to further reduce our policy limits or agree to certain exclusions from our coverage.
We may not be able to respond to rapid technological changes in a timely manner, which may cause customer dissatisfaction
The gaming sector is characterized by the rapid development of new technologies and continuous introduction of new products. Our main technological advantage versus potential competitors is our software lead-time in the market and our experience in operating an Internet-based wagering network. However, we may not be able to maintain our competitive technological position against current and potential competitors, especially those with greater financial resources. Our success depends upon new product development and technological advancements, including the development of new wagering platforms and features. While we expend a significant amount of resources on research and development and product enhancement, we may not be able to continue to improve and market our existing products or technologies or develop and market new products in a timely manner. Further technological developments may cause our products or technologies to become obsolete or noncompetitive.
ITEM 1B.
ITEM 1B.
UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None.
ITEM 2.
ITEM 2.
PROPERTIES
On October 19, 2011, the Company entered into a ten-year lease agreement for approximately 33,000 square feet of office space in Louisville, Kentucky. The space serves as the Company’s new corporate headquarters, which was occupied during the second quarter of 2012.
Additional information concerning property owned by us required by this Item is incorporated by reference to the information contained in the subheadings “C. Live Racing,” “D. Simulcast Operations” and “F. Gaming Operations” in Item 1. “Business” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Our real and personal property (but not including the property of UT Canada, Bluff, MVG, HRTV, KOTB, NASRIN or Kentucky Downs) is encumbered by liens securing our $375 million revolving line of credit facility. The shares of stock of and ownership interests in certain of our subsidiaries are also pledged to secure this debt facility.
The Kentucky Derby Museum is located on property that is adjacent to, but not owned by, Churchill Downs. The Museum is owned and operated by the Kentucky Derby Museum Corporation, a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
ITEM 3.
ITEM 3.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
The Company records an accrual for legal contingencies to the extent that it concludes that it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. Except as disclosed below, no estimate of the possible loss or range of loss in excess of amounts accrued, if any, can be made at this time regarding the matters specifically described below. We do not believe that the final outcome of these matters will have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE
In October of 2012, the Company filed a verified complaint for preliminary and permanent injunctive relief and for declaratory judgment (the “Complaint”) against the Illinois Department of Revenue (the “Department”). The Company's complaint was
filed in response to Notices of Deficiency issued by the Department on March 18, 2010 and September 6, 2012. In response to said Notices of Deficiency, the Company, on October 4, 2012, issued a payment in protest in the amount of $2.9 million (the “Protest Payment”) under the State Officers and Employees Money Disposition Act and recorded this amount as an other asset at December 31, 2012. The Company subsequently filed its complaint in November alleging that the Department erroneously included handle, instead of the Company's commissions from handle, in the computation of the Company's sales factor (a computation of the Company's gross receipts from wagering within the State of Illinois) for determining the applicable tax owed. On October 30, 2012, the Company's Motion for Preliminary Injunctive Relief was granted, which prevents the Department from depositing any monies from the Protest Payment into the State of Illinois General Fund and from taking any further action against the Company until the Circuit Court takes final action on the Company's Complaint. If successful with its Complaint, the Company will be entitled to a full or partial refund of the Protest Payment from the Department. This matter remains pending before the Tax and Miscellaneous Remedies Section of the Circuit Court of Cook County.
KENTUCKY DOWNS
On September 5, 2012, Kentucky Downs Management, Inc. (“KDMI”) filed a petition for declaration of rights in Kentucky Circuit Court located in Simpson County, Kentucky styled Kentucky Downs Management Inc. v. Churchill Downs Incorporated (Civil Action No. 12-CI-330) (the “Simpson County Case”) requesting a declaration that the Company does not have the right to exercise its put right and require Kentucky Downs, LLC (“Kentucky Downs”) and/or Kentucky Downs Partners, LLC (“KDP”) to purchase the Company's ownership interest in Kentucky Downs. On September 18, 2012, the Company filed a complaint in Kentucky Circuit Court located in Jefferson County, Kentucky, styled Churchill Downs Incorporated v. Kentucky Downs, LLC; Kentucky Downs Partners, LLC; and Kentucky Downs Management Inc. (Civil Action No. 12-CI-04989) (the “Jefferson County Case”) claiming that Kentucky Downs and KDP had breached the operating agreement for Kentucky Downs and requesting a declaration that the Company had validly exercised its put right and a judgment compelling Kentucky Downs and/or KDP to purchase the Company's ownership interest in Kentucky Downs pursuant to the terms of the applicable operating agreement. On October 9, 2012, the Company filed a motion to dismiss the Simpson County Case and Kentucky Downs, KDP and KDMI filed a motion to dismiss the Jefferson County Case. A hearing for the motion to dismiss in the Simpson County Case occurred November 30, 2012. At that hearing the Company's motion to dismiss the Simpson County Case was denied. Subsequently, Kentucky Downs, KDMI and KDP's motion to dismiss the Jefferson County Case was granted on January 23, 2013, due to the Simpson County Circuit Court's assertion of jurisdiction over the dispute. The case will now move forward in the Simpson County Circuit Court.
TEXAS PARI-MUTUEL WAGERING
On September 21, 2012, the Company filed a lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas styled Churchill Downs Incorporated; Churchill Downs Technology Initiatives Company d/b/a TwinSpires.com v. Chuck Trout, in his official capacity as Executive Director of the Texas Racing Commission; Gary P. Aber, Susan Combs, Ronald F. Ederer, Gloria Hicks, Michael F. Martin, Allan Polunsky, Robert Schmidt, John T. Steen III, Vicki Smith Weinberg, in their official capacity as members of the Texas Racing Commission (Case No. 1:12-cv-00880-LY) challenging the constitutionality of a Texas law requiring residents of Texas that desire to wager on horseraces to wager in person at a Texas race track. In addition to its complaint, on September 21, 2012, the Company filed a motion for preliminary injunction seeking to enjoin the state from taking any action to enforce the law in question. In response, on October 9, 2012, counsel for the state assured both the Company and the court that the state would not enforce the law in question against the Company without prior notice, at which time the court could then consider the motion for preliminary injunction.
HORSERACING EQUITY TRUST FUND
During 2006, the Illinois General Assembly enacted Public Act 94-804, which created the Horse Racing Equity Trust Fund (“HRE Trust Fund”). During November 2008, the Illinois General Assembly passed Public Act 95-1008 to extend Public Act 94-804 for a period of three years beginning December 12, 2008. The HRE Trust Fund was funded by a 3% “surcharge” on revenues of Illinois riverboat casinos that met a certain revenue threshold. The riverboats paid all monies required under Public Acts 94-804 and 95-1008 into a special protest fund account which prevented the monies from being transferred to the HRE Trust Fund. The funds were moved to the HRE Trust Fund and distributed to the racetracks, including Arlington, in December 2009.
On June 12, 2009, the riverboat casinos filed a lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, Eastern Division, against former Governor Rod Blagojevich, Friends of Blagojevich and others, including Arlington (Empress Casino Joliet Corp. v. Blagojevich, 2009 CV 03585). While the riverboat casinos alleged violations of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (“RICO”) against certain of the defendants, Arlington was not named in the RICO count, but rather was named solely in a count requesting that the monies paid by the riverboat casinos pursuant to Public Acts 94-804 and 95-1008 be held in a constructive trust for the riverboat casinos’ benefit and ultimately returned to the casinos. Following several
lower court motions, on March 2, 2011, a three member panel of the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals reversed the trial court’s dismissal. We requested the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals to rehear the matter en banc and, on April 11, 2011, the Appellate Court issued an order to rehear the matter en banc. That hearing was held on May 10, 2011. On July 8, 2011, the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals issued a thirty-day stay of dissolution of the temporary restraining order ('TRO") to allow the Casinos to request a further stay of dissolution of the TRO pending their petition for certiorari to the United States Supreme Court. On August 5, 2011, the United States Supreme Court denied an application by the casinos to further stay the dissolution of the TRO. On August 9, 2011, the stay of dissolution expired and the TRO dissolved, which terminated the restrictions on the Company’s ability to access funds from the HRE Trust Fund held in the escrow account. Public Act 94-804 expired in May 2008 and Public Act 95-1008 expired on July 18, 2011, the date the tenth Illinois riverboat license became operational.
Arlington filed an administrative appeal in the Circuit Court of Cook County on August 18, 2009 (Arlington Park Racecourse LLC v. Illinois Racing Board, 09 CH 28774) challenging the IRB’s allocation of funds out of the HRE Trust Fund based upon handle generated by certain ineligible licensees, as contrary to the language of the statute. The Circuit Court affirmed the IRB’s decision on November 10, 2010, and Arlington appealed this ruling to the Illinois First District Court of Appeals. On April 23, 2012 the Court of Appeals ultimately affirmed the IRB’s decision and Arlington filed a petition for leave to appeal to the Illinois Supreme Court on May 25, 2012. On October 1, 2012, the Illinois Supreme Court denied Arlington's petition for leave to appeal. Hawthorne Racecourse filed a separate administrative appeal on June 11, 2010 (Hawthorne Racecourse, Inc. v. Illinois Racing Board et. al., Case No. 10 CH 24439) challenging the IRB’s decision not to credit Hawthorne with handle previously generated by an ineligible licensee for the purpose of calculating the allocation of the HRE Trust Fund monies and the IRB’s unwillingness to hold another meeting in 2010 to reconstrue the statutory language in Public Act 95-1008 with respect to distributions. On May 25, 2011, the Circuit Court rejected Hawthorne’s arguments and affirmed the IRB’s decisions, and Hawthorne appealed the Circuit Court’s decision. Arlington filed its response brief on May 30, 2012, and the IRB filed its response brief on June 30, 2012. Hawthorne filed its reply brief on July 27, 2012. Oral arguments on Hawthorne's appeal before the Illinois First District Court of Appeals were heard on November 1, 2012 and during November 2012, the First District Court of Appeals ruled against Hawthorne.
We received $45.4 million from the HRE Trust Fund, of which $26.1 million was designated for Arlington purses. We used the remaining $19.3 million of the proceeds to improve, market, and maintain or otherwise operate the Arlington racing facility in order to conduct live racing.
BALMORAL, MAYWOOD AND ILLINOIS HARNESS HORSEMEN’S ASSOCIATION
On February 14, 2011, Balmoral Racing Club, Inc., Maywood Park Trotting Association, Inc. and the Illinois Harness Horsemen's Association, Inc. filed a lawsuit styled Balmoral Racing Club, Inc., Maywood Park Trotting Association, Inc. and the Illinois Harness Horsemen's Association Inc. vs. Churchill Downs Incorporated, Churchill Downs Technology Initiatives Company d/b/a TwinSpires.com and Youbet.com, LLC (Case No. 11-CV-D1028) in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, Eastern Division. The plaintiffs allege that Youbet.com breached a co-branding agreement dated December 2007, as amended on December 21, 2007, and September 26, 2008 (the “Agreement”), which was entered into between certain Illinois racetracks and a predecessor of Youbet.com. The plaintiffs allege that the defendants breached the agreement by virtue of an unauthorized assignment of the Agreement to TwinSpires.com and further allege that Youbet.com and TwinSpires have misappropriated trade secrets in violation of the Illinois Trade Secrets Act. Finally, the plaintiffs allege that the Company and TwinSpires.com tortiously interfered with the Agreement by causing Youbet.com to breach the Agreement. The plaintiffs have alleged damages of at least $3.6 million, or alternatively, of at least $0.8 million. On April 1, 2011, the plaintiffs filed a motion for a preliminary injunction, seeking an order compelling the defendants to turn over all Illinois customer accounts and prohibiting TwinSpires.com from using that list of Illinois customer accounts. On April 18, 2011, the defendants filed an answer and a motion to dismiss certain counts of the plaintiffs' complaint, and Youbet.com asserted a counterclaim seeking certain declaratory relief relating to allegations that plaintiffs Maywood and Balmoral breached the Agreement in 2010, leading to its proper termination by Youbet.com on December 1, 2010. The preliminary injunction hearing took place on July 6, 2011, and, on July 21, 2011, the court denied the preliminary injunction. On March 9, 2012, the parties mediated the case without resolution. The parties filed motions of summary judgment in November and December 2012, respectively, and replies were filed in January 2013.
OTHER MATTERS
There are no other material pending legal proceedings.
ITEM 4.
ITEM 4.
MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable.
PART II
ITEM 5.
ITEM 5.
MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
Our common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Market under the symbol CHDN. As of February 11, 2013, there were approximately 3,637 shareholders of record.
The following table sets forth the high and low sale prices, as reported by the NASDAQ Global Market, and dividend declaration information for our common stock during the last two years:
The following table provides information with respect to shares of common stock repurchased by the Company during the quarter ended December 31, 2012:
(1)
Shares of common stock were repurchased from grants of restricted stock in payment of income taxes on the related compensation.
Set forth below is a line graph comparing the cumulative total return of our common stock, including reinvested dividends, against the cumulative total return of peer group indices, the S&P 500 Index and the Russell 2000 Index for the period of five fiscal years commencing December 31, 2007 and ending December 31, 2012. The peer group indices used by the Company are the Morningstar Gambling Index and the Dow Jones US Gambling Index, which are published industry peer indices of companies engaged in the leisure and gaming industries. The broad equity market indices used by the Company are the Russell 2000 Index, which measures the performance of small and middle capitalization companies and the S&P 500 Index, which measures the performance of large capitalization companies. The graph and table depict the result of an investment on December 31, 2007 of $100 in the Company, the Russell 2000 Index, the S&P 500 Index, the Dow Jones US Gambling Index and the Morningstar Gambling Index. We believe the Dow Jones US Gambling Index is more indicative of our operations and will be used to replace the Morningstar Gambling Index in future performance comparisons. Because we have historically paid dividends on an annual basis, the performance graph assumes that dividends were reinvested annually.
ITEM 6.
ITEM 6.
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
The selected financial data presented above is subject to the following information:
(1)
During 2012, we recognized a gain of $7.0 million from insurance recoveries, net of losses, related to losses sustained at Harlow's during 2011 from wind and flood damage and at Churchill Downs during 2012 from hail damage.
(2)
During 2011, we recognized $19.3 million as miscellaneous other income for our share of proceeds from the HRE Trust Fund. In addition, during 2011, we recognized $2.7 million of miscellaneous other income and $1.4 million of interest expense as a result of the conversion and the elimination of a short forward contract liability and long put option asset through the issuance of 452,603 shares of common stock associated with a convertible note payable. Finally, during 2011, we recorded a gain in discontinued operations of $3.4 million, net of income taxes, as the final settlement of the contingent consideration provision associated with the sale of our ownership interest in Hoosier Park L.P. during 2007. In addition, we recorded an additional gain in discontinued operations of $0.2 million, net of income taxes, on the sale of Hollywood Park related to the final expiration of an indemnity of certain contractual obligations related to the sale.
(3)
During 2010, Churchill Downs Entertainment Group ("CDE") ceased operations and recorded a loss from operations before income tax benefit of $9.1 million ($5.8 million, net of income taxes) in discontinued operations. In addition, during 2010, we recognized a gain of $2.6 million, net of income taxes, on the sale of Hollywood Park, upon the partial expiration of an indemnity of certain contractual obligations related to the sale.
(4)
During 2009, we recognized incremental income tax expense from continuing operations of $2.3 million as well as income
tax expense from discontinued operations of $1.1 million related to proposed adjustments resulting from an audit of prior year income tax returns by the Internal Revenue Service. In addition, during 2009, we acquired land from a related party for $27.5 million, which was financed partially with a short-term note payable of $24.0 million. Finally, during 2009, we received $24.0 million related to Illinois riverboat subsidies, which was recorded in restricted cash and deferred revenues pending the outcome of a challenge of these subsidies by Illinois riverboats.
(5)
During 2008, we recognized a gain of $17.2 million from insurance recoveries, net of losses, related to damages sustained by Fair Grounds from Hurricane Katrina.
(6)
Free cash flow, a non-GAAP financial measure, is defined as net cash provided by operating activities less maintenance-related (replacement) capital expenditures. Please refer to subheading “Liquidity and Capital Resources” in Item 7.
ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Information set forth in this discussion and analysis contains various “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the “Reform Act”) provides certain “safe harbor” provisions for forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements made in this Annual Report on Form 10-K are made pursuant to the Reform Act. The reader is cautioned that such forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time and/or management’s good faith belief with respect to future events, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in the statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date the statement was made. We assume no obligation to update forward-looking information to reflect actual results, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors affecting forward-looking information. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by the use of terms such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “will,” and similar words, although some forward-looking statements are expressed differently. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, we can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations include those factors described in Item 1A. “Risk Factors” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
You should read this discussion with the financial statements and other financial information included in this report. Our significant accounting policies are described in Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Overview
We are a diversified provider of pari-mutuel horseracing, casino gaming, entertainment, and the country’s premier source of online account wagering on horseracing events.
We operate in four operating segments as follows:
1.
Racing Operations, which includes:
•
Churchill Downs Racetrack (“Churchill Downs”) in Louisville, Kentucky, an internationally known thoroughbred racing operation and home of the Kentucky Derby since 1875;
•
Arlington International Race Course (“Arlington”), a thoroughbred racing operation in Arlington Heights along with ten off-track betting facilities (“OTBs”) in Illinois;
•
Calder Race Course (“Calder”), a thoroughbred racing operation in Miami Gardens, Florida; and
•
Fair Grounds Race Course (“Fair Grounds”), a thoroughbred racing operation in New Orleans along with twelve OTBs in Louisiana.
2.
Gaming, which includes:
•
Riverwalk Casino Hotel ("Riverwalk") in Vicksburg, Mississippi, which we acquired on October 23, 2012. Riverwalk operates approximately 700 slot machines, 18 table games, a five story, 80-room attached hotel, multi-functional event center and dining facilities;
•
Harlow’s Casino Resort & Spa (“Harlow’s”) in Greenville, Mississippi, which operates approximately 825 slot machines, 15 table games and a poker room, a five-story, 105-room attached hotel, multi-functional event center, pool, spa and dining facilities;
•
Calder Casino, a slot facility in Florida adjacent to Calder, which operates approximately 1,200 slot machines and includes a poker room operation branded “Studz Poker Club”;
•
Fair Grounds Slots, a slot facility in Louisiana adjacent to Fair Grounds, which operates approximately 625 slot machines; and
•
Video Services, LLC (“VSI”), the owner and operator of approximately 725 video poker machines in Louisiana.
3.
Online Business, which includes:
•
TwinSpires, an Advance Deposit Wagering (“ADW”) business that is licensed as a multi-jurisdictional simulcasting and interactive wagering hub in the state of Oregon.
•
Fair Grounds Account Wagering (“FAW”), an ADW business that is licensed in the state of Louisiana;
•
Velocity, a business that is licensed in the British Dependency Isle of Man focusing on high wagering-volume international customers;
•
Luckity, an ADW business launched during October 2012 that offers over 20 unique online games with outcomes based on and determined by pari-mutuel wagers on live horseraces;
•
Bloodstock Research Information Services (“BRIS”), a data service provider for the equine industry; and
•
Our equity investment in HRTV, LLC (“HRTV”), a horseracing television channel.
4.
Other Investments, which includes:
•
United Tote Company and United Tote Canada (collectively “United Tote”), which manufactures and operates pari-mutuel wagering systems for racetracks, OTBs and other pari-mutuel wagering businesses;
•
Bluff Media ("Bluff"), a multimedia poker content brand and publishing company, acquired by the Company on February 10, 2012;
•
Our equity investment in Miami Valley Gaming & Racing, LLC ("MVG"), a joint venture to develop a harness racetrack and video lottery terminal facility in Ohio; and
•
Our other minor investments.
In order to evaluate the performance of these operating segments internally, we use EBITDA (defined as earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) as a key performance measure of the results of operations. We believe that the use of EBITDA enables management and investors to evaluate and compare from period to period our operating performance in a meaningful and consistent manner.
During the year ended December 31, 2012, total handle for the pari-mutuel industry, according to figures published by Equibase, increased 1.0 % compared to the same period of 2011. TwinSpires handle increased $84.6 million, or 10.9%, during the year ended December 31, 2012, as compared to the same period of 2011, primarily from growth in new, organic customers and an increase in average daily wagering. Pari-mutuel handle from our Racing Operations remained flat during the year ended December 31, 2012, compared to the same period of 2011.
We believe that, despite uncertain economic conditions, we are in a strong financial position. As of December 31, 2012, there was $159 million of borrowing capacity available under our revolving credit facility. To date, we have not experienced any limitations in our ability to access this source of liquidity.
Recent Developments
Miami Valley Gaming & Racing Joint Venture
During March 2012, we announced an agreement to enter into a 50% joint venture with Delaware North Companies Gaming & Entertainment Inc. ("DNC") to develop a new harness racetrack and video lottery terminal ("VLT") gaming facility in Monroe, Ohio. On December 21, 2012, MVG completed the purchase of the harness racing licenses and certain assets held by Lebanon Trotting Club Inc. and Miami Valley Trotting Inc. for total consideration of $60.0 million, of which $10.0 million was funded at closing with the remainder to be funded through a $50.0 million note payable over a six year term effective upon the commencement of gaming operations. In addition, there is a potential contingent consideration payment of $10.0 million based on the financial performance of the facility during the seven year period after gaming operations commence. Construction began in December 2012 on a new gaming and racing facility located in Monroe, Ohio. The new facility is expected to open in the first quarter of 2014, and will include a 5/8-mile harness racing track and a 186,000-square-foot gaming facility, featuring up to 2,500 VLTs on the 120-acre site. MVG will invest approximately $215 million in the new facility, including the $50 million license fee payable to the Ohio Lottery Commission. During the year ended December 31, 2012, we funded $19.9 million in initial capital contributions to the joint venture.
Riverwalk Casino Hotel Acquisition
On October 23, 2012, we completed our acquisition of Riverwalk in Vicksburg, Mississippi for cash consideration of approximately $145.6 million. The transaction includes the acquisition of a 25,000-square-foot casino, an 80-room hotel, a 5,600-square-foot event center and dining facilities on approximately 22 acres of land. The acquisition continues our diversification and growth strategies to invest in assets with an expected yield on investment to enhance shareholder value. We financed the acquisition with borrowings under our amended and restated credit facility.
Illinois Income Taxes
During October 2012, we funded a $2.9 million income tax payment to the State of Illinois related to a dispute over state income tax apportionment methodology which is recorded as an other asset that we believe will be recoverable in a future period. We filed our state income tax returns related to the years 2002 through 2005 following the methodology prescribed by Illinois statute, however the State of Illinois has taken a contrary tax position. We filed a formal protest with the State of Illinois during the fourth quarter of 2012. We do not expect this issue to have a material, adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.
Florida Gaming Recoveries
During February 2012, we received $0.8 million in proceeds upon the opening of Casino Miami Jai-Alai, a slots and jai-alai facility in Miami, Florida. These proceeds partially reimbursed Calder for expenditures made during 2005 related to the slot machine referendum held in Miami-Dade County. Due to uncertainties regarding collectability, we did not recognize a reduction of expense upon the execution of the agreement during 2005, because reimbursement was not payable until the opening of Casino Miami Jai-Alai. During the year ended December 31, 2012, we recognized $0.8 million as a reduction to selling, general and administrative expenses from the recovery.
Bluff Media Acquisition
During February 2012, we announced the acquisition of the assets of Bluff, a multimedia poker content brand and publishing company. Bluff’s assets include the poker periodical, BLUFF Magazine; BLUFF Magazine’s online counterpart, BluffMagazine.com; ThePokerDB, a comprehensive online database and resource that tracks and ranks the performance of poker players and tournaments; and various other news and content forums. Bluff also publishes Fight! Magazine, a premier mixed martial arts magazine and its online counterpart, FightMagazine.com. In addition to our intention to further expand and build upon Bluff’s current content and business model, we believe this acquisition potentially provides us with new business avenues to pursue in the event there is a liberalization of state or federal laws with respect to Internet poker in the United States.
We completed our acquisition of Bluff for cash consideration of $6.7 million and contingent consideration of $2.5 million based on the probability of the enactment of federal or state enabling legislation which permits Internet poker gaming during the five year period after acquisition. The contingent consideration was estimated at $2.3 million. Any changes in the fair value of contingent consideration subsequent to the acquisition date will be recognized in earnings in the period the estimated fair value changes.
Kentucky Hailstorm
On April 28, 2012, a hailstorm caused damage to portions of Louisville, Kentucky including Churchill Downs Racetrack and its separate training facility known as Trackside Louisville. Both locations sustained damage to their stable areas as well as damages to administrative offices and several other structures. The Company carries property and casualty insurance, subject to a $0.5 million deductible. As of December 31, 2012, we have recorded a reduction of property and equipment of $0.6 million. We are currently working with our insurance carriers to finalize our claim and received $1.1 million during the year ended December 31, 2012. We recognized insurance recoveries, net of losses of $0.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2012. The Company received an additional $0.4 million from its insurance carriers during 2013, and will recognize insurance recoveries, net of losses of $0.4 million as a component of operating income during the three months ended March 31, 2013.
Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks Qualifying Process
During June 2012, we announced a revision to the process by which thoroughbred racehorses qualify for the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks. Effective for the 2013 Kentucky Derby, we will cease to use graded stakes earnings to determine qualifiers, and we will institute a point system. The Kentucky Derby will feature a preparatory season consisting of nineteen races for two-year old and early three-year old horses, and a championship series consisting of seventeen races for three-year old horses. Points will be awarded to the top four finishers in each race, and the highest cumulative point winners will be eligible to start in the Kentucky Derby. The Kentucky Oaks will feature a similar preparatory season with twenty races and a championship series of fifteen races. The events which constitute the qualifying horse races and their assigned point value will be reviewed annually.
Mississippi River Flooding
As a result of the Mississippi River flooding during 2011, we temporarily ceased operations at Harlow’s on May 6, 2011, and the Board of Mississippi Levee Commissioners ordered the closure of the Mainline Mississippi River Levee on May 7, 2011. On May 12, 2011, the property sustained damage to its 2,600-seat entertainment center and a portion of its dining facilities. On June 1, 2011, Harlow’s resumed casino operations with temporary dining facilities. During December 2012 and January 2013, we completed the renovation and improvement projects, which included a new buffet area, steakhouse, business center, spa facility, fitness center, pool and a multi-purpose event center.
We carry flood, property and casualty insurance as well as business interruption insurance subject to a $1.3 million deductible
for damages. As of December 31, 2012, we have recorded a reduction of property and equipment of $8.5 million and incurred $2.0 million in repair expenditures at Harlow's. During the year ended December 31, 2011, we received $3.5 million in partial settlement of our claim. We finalized our claim with our carriers and received $12.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2012. We recognized insurance recoveries, net of losses of $5.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2012. The insurance claims for this event have been finalized with our insurance carriers, and we do not expect to receive additional funds or recognize additional income from the claim.
Mississippi Wind Damage
On February 24, 2011, severe storms caused damage to portions of Mississippi, including Greenville, Mississippi, the location of Harlow’s. The Harlow’s property sustained damage to a portion of the hotel, including its roof, furniture and fixtures in approximately 61 hotel rooms and fixtures in other areas of the hotel. The hotel was closed to customers for renovations following the storm damage and reopened during June 2011. We carry property and casualty insurance as well as business interruption insurance subject to a $0.1 million deductible for damages. As of December 31, 2012, we have recorded a reduction of property and equipment of $1.4 million and incurred $0.4 million in repair expenditures. We filed a preliminary claim with our insurance carriers for $1.0 million in damages, which we received during the second quarter of 2011. Approximately $0.4 million of insurance recoveries received were recorded as a reduction of selling, general and administrative expenses against losses related to the interruption of business caused by the wind damage during the year ended December 31, 2011. We received an additional $3.4 million from our insurance carriers during the year ended December 31, 2012. We recognized insurance recoveries, net of losses, of $1.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2012. The insurance claims for this event have been finalized with our insurance carriers, and we do not expect to receive additional funds or recognize additional income from the claim.
Legislative and Regulatory Changes
Please refer to subheading “K. Legislative Changes” in Item 1. “Business” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for information regarding legislative and regulatory changes.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Our Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. Accordingly, we are required to make estimates, judgments and assumptions that we believe are reasonable based on our historical experience, contract terms, observance of known trends in our company and the industry as a whole and information available from other outside sources. Our estimates affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and related disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results may differ from those initial estimates.
Our most significant estimates relate to the valuation of property and equipment, goodwill and other intangible assets, which may be significantly affected by changes in the regulatory environment in which we operate, and to the aggregate costs for self-insured liability and workers’ compensation claims. Additionally, estimates are used for determining income tax liabilities.
We review the carrying values of goodwill at least annually during the first quarter of each year or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of these assets may not be recoverable. In 2012, in connection with our annual impairment test, we adopted ASU No. 2011-08, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other: Testing Goodwill for Impairment which allows an entity the option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether the existence of events or circumstances leads to a determination that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If, after assessing the totality of events or circumstances, an entity determines it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than the carrying amount, then the Company would perform a two step goodwill impairment test. The first step, used to identify potential impairment, is a comparison of the reporting unit's estimated fair value to its carrying value, including goodwill. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, applicable goodwill is considered not to be impaired. If the carrying value exceeds fair value, there is an indication of impairment and the second step is performed to measure the amount of the impairment, if any. The second step requires the Company to calculate an implied fair value of goodwill at the reporting unit level. If the goodwill assigned to a reporting unit exceeds the implied fair value of the goodwill, an impairment change is recorded for the excess.
Our 2012 annual goodwill impairment analysis included an assessment of certain qualitative factors including but not limited to macroeconomic, industry and market conditions; cost factors that have a negative effect on earnings; overall financial performance; the movement of the Company's share price; and other relevant entity and reporting unit specific events. We considered the qualitative factors and weighted the evidence obtained and determined that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of any reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. Given the substantial amount of the excess of fair value over carrying value, none of our reporting units were considered to be "at risk" of failing step one of the 2012 annual goodwill impairment test. Although we believe the factors considered in the impairment analysis are reasonable, significant changes in any one of our assumptions could produce a significantly different result. In prior years, our assessment of goodwill impairment
was largely dependent on estimates of future cash flows at the aggregated reporting unit level, and a weighted-average cost of capital. The estimates of these future cash flows were based on assumptions and projections with respect to future revenues and expenses believed to be reasonable and supportable at the time the annual impairment analysis was performed. Further they required management's judgments and took into account assumptions about overall growth rates and increases in expenses.
We consider our slots gaming rights and trademark intangible assets as indefinite-lived intangible assets that do not require amortization based on our future expectations to operate our gaming facilities indefinitely, as well as our historical experience in renewing these intangible assets at minimal cost with various state gaming commissions. Rather, these intangible assets are tested annually, or more frequently, if indicators of impairment exist, for impairment by comparing the fair value of the recorded assets to their carrying amount. If the carrying amount of the slots gaming rights and trademark intangible assets exceed their fair value, an impairment loss is recognized.
We assign estimated useful lives to our definite-lived intangible assets based on the period of time the asset is expected to contribute directly or indirectly to future cash flows. We consider certain factors when assigning useful lives such as legal, regulatory, competition and other economic factors. Intangible assets with definite lives are amortized using the straight-line method.
While we believe that our estimates of future revenues and cash flows are reasonable, different assumptions could materially affect our assessment of useful lives and fair values. Changes in assumptions may cause modifications to our estimates for amortization or impairment, thereby impacting our results of operations. If the estimated lives of our definite-lived intangible assets were to decrease based on the factors mentioned above, amortization expense could increase significantly.
In May 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued ASU No. 2011-04, Amendments to Achieve Common Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure Requirements in Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”) and International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS") which changes the wording used to describe the requirements in GAAP for measuring fair value and for disclosing information about fair value measurements in order to improve consistency in the application and description of fair value between GAAP and IFRS. ASU 2011-04 clarifies how the concepts of highest and best use and valuation premise in a fair value measurement are relevant only when measuring the fair value of nonfinancial assets and are not relevant when measuring the fair value of financial assets or liabilities. In addition, the guidance expanded the disclosures for the unobservable inputs for Level 3 fair value measurements, requiring quantitative information to be disclosed related to (1) the valuation processes used, (2) the sensitivity of the fair value measurement to changes in unobservable inputs and the interrelationships between those unobservable inputs, and (3) use of a nonfinancial asset in a way that differs from the asset’s highest and best use. The revised guidance became effective for interim and annual fiscal periods beginning after December 15, 2011. The Company adopted the standard for the year ended December 31, 2012, and there was no impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
Our business can be impacted positively and negatively by legislative and regulatory changes, by economic conditions and by gaming competition. A significant negative impact from these activities could result in a significant impairment of our property and equipment and/or our goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets.
Additional information regarding how our business can be impacted by competition and legislative changes is included in subheading “J. Competition” and subheading “K. Legislative Changes”, respectively, in Item 1. “Business” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
In connection with losses incurred from natural disasters, insurance proceeds are collected on existing business interruption and property and casualty insurance policies. When losses are sustained in one period and the amounts to be recovered are collected in a subsequent period, management uses estimates and judgment to determine the amounts that are probable of recovery under such policies. Estimated losses, net of anticipated insurance recoveries, are recognized in the period the natural disaster occurs and the amount of the loss is determinable. Insurance recoveries in excess of estimated losses are recognized when realizable.
We also use estimates and judgments for financial reporting to determine our current tax liability, as well as those taxes deferred until future periods. Net deferred and accrued income taxes represent significant assets and liabilities of the Company. In accordance with the liability method of accounting for income taxes, we recognize the amount of taxes payable or refundable for the current year and deferred tax assets and liabilities for the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in our consolidated financial statements or tax returns.
Adjustments to deferred taxes are determined based upon changes in differences between the book basis and tax basis of our assets and liabilities, measured by enacted tax rates we estimate will be applicable when these differences are expected to reverse. Changes in current tax laws, enacted tax rates or the estimated level of taxable income or non-deductible expenses could change the valuation of deferred tax assets and liabilities and affect the overall effective tax rate and tax provision.
In 2012, our business insurance renewals included substantially the same coverage and retentions as in previous years. We estimate insurance liabilities for workers’ compensation and general liability losses based on our historical loss experience,
certain actuarial assumptions of loss development factors and current industry trends. Any changes in our assumptions, actuarial assumptions or loss experience could impact our total insurance cost and overall results of operations.
Our significant accounting policies and recently adopted accounting policies are more fully described in Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8. “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Consolidated Net Revenues
Our net revenues and earnings are influenced by our racing calendar. Therefore, revenues and operating results for any interim quarter are not generally indicative of the revenues and operating results for the year, and may not be comparable with results for the corresponding period of the previous year. We historically have had fewer live racing days during the first quarter of each year, and the majority of our live racing revenue occurs during the second quarter, with the running of the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks. Information regarding racing dates at our facilities for 2013 and 2012 is included in Subheading “C. Live Racing” in Item 1. “Business” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income include net revenues and operating expenses associated with our Racing Operations, Gaming, Online Business and Other Investments operating segments and are defined as follows:
Racing: net revenues and corresponding operating expenses associated with commissions earned on wagering at the Company’s racetracks, OTBs and simulcast fees earned from other wagering sites. In addition, amounts include ancillary revenues and expenses generated by the pari-mutuel facilities including admissions, sponsorships and licensing rights, food and beverage sales and fees for the alternative uses of its facilities.
Gaming: net revenues and corresponding operating expenses generated from slot machines, table games and video poker. In addition, it includes ancillary revenues and expenses generated by food and beverage sales, hotel operations revenue and miscellaneous other revenue.
Online: net revenues and corresponding operating expenses generated by the Company’s ADW business from wagering through the Internet, telephone or other mobile devices on pari-mutuel events. In addition, it includes the Company's information business that provides data information and processing services to the equine industry.
Other: net revenues and corresponding operating expenses generated by United Tote, the Company’s provider of pari-mutuel wagering systems and Bluff.
During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company merged the operations of Churchill Downs Simulcast Productions ("CDSP"), the Company's provider of television production services, which was previously included in our Other Investments operating segment, with its Racing Operations operating segment. Net revenues and operating expenses of CDSP for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation. There was no impact from these reclassifications on consolidated net revenues, operating income, results of continuing operations, or cash flows.
Pari-mutuel revenues are recognized upon occurrence of the live race that is presented for wagering and after that live race is made official by the respective state’s racing regulatory body. Gaming revenues represent net gaming wins, which is the difference between gaming wins and losses. Other operating revenues such as admissions, programs and concession revenues are recognized once delivery of the product or service has occurred.
Our customer loyalty programs offer incentives to customers who wager at the Company’s racetracks, through our advance deposit wagering platform, TwinSpires.com, or at our gaming facilities. The TSC Elite program, which was introduced during the year ended December 31, 2012, to replace the previous program, TwinSpires Club, is offered for pari-mutuel wagering at the Company’s racetracks or through TwinSpires.com. The Player’s Club is offered at the Company’s gaming facilities in Louisiana, Florida and Mississippi. Under the programs, customers are able to accumulate points over time that they may redeem for cash, free play, merchandise or food and beverage items at their discretion under the terms of the programs. As a result of the ability of the customer to accumulate points, we accrue the cost of points, after consideration of estimated forfeitures, as they are earned. Under the TSC Elite program, the estimated value of the cost to redeem points is recorded as the points are earned. To arrive at the estimated cost associated with points, estimates and assumptions are made regarding incremental costs of the benefits, rates and the mix of goods and services for which points will be redeemed. Under the Player’s Club program, the retail value of the points-based cash awards or complimentary goods and services is netted against revenue as a promotional allowance. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the reward point liability was $2.1 million and $2.6 million, respectively.
Approximately 50% of our annual revenues are generated by pari-mutuel wagering on live and simulcast racing content through OTBs and ADW providers. Live racing handle includes patron wagers made on live races at our racetracks and also wagers made on imported simulcast signals by patrons at our racetracks during live meets. Import simulcasting handle includes wagers on imported signals at our racetracks when the respective tracks are not conducting live racing meets, at our OTBs and through our ADW providers throughout the year. Export handle includes all patron wagers made on live racing signals sent to other
tracks, OTBs and ADW providers. Advance deposit wagering consists of patron wagers through an advance deposit account.
We retain as revenue a pre-determined percentage or commission on the total amount wagered, and the balance is distributed to the winning patrons. The gross percentages earned approximated 10% of handle for our Racing Operations and 20% of handle for our Online Business.l.
Certain key operating statistics specific to the gaming industry are included in our discussion of performance of the gaming segment. Our slot facilities report slot handle as a volume measurement, defined as the gross amount wagered or coins placed into slot machines in aggregate for the period cited. In addition, our slot facilities and video poker operations report net win per unit, which is calculated as gross gaming revenues, less customer payouts and free play, per machine and per day of operations.
RESULTS OF CONTINUING OPERATIONS
Pari-mutuel Handle
The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, pari-mutuel financial handle information (in thousands):
The pari-mutuel activity above is subject to the following information:
(1) Total handle and net pari-mutuel revenues generated by Velocity during the years presented above are not included in total handle and net pari-mutuel revenues from the Online Business.
The gaming activity presented above is subject to the following information:
(1)
On October 23, 2012, we completed the acquisition of Riverwalk, whose results are presented in 2012 from the date of acquisition through December 31, 2012.
(2)
On December 16, 2010, we completed the acquisition of Harlow’s, whose results are presented in 2010 from the date of acquisition through December 31, 2010.
(3)
Certain gaming activity amounts including hotel revenue and certain promotional allowances have been excluded from prior year amounts to conform to current year presentation. There was no impact from these reclassifications on total consolidated net revenues, operating expenses or cash flows.
The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, total consolidated revenues, including food and beverage, admissions and ancillary revenues, and certain other financial information and operating data (in thousands, except per common share data and live race days):
Year Ended December 31, 2012, Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2011
Our total net revenues increased $35.5 million, primarily from the continuing organic growth of our Online Business segment and from the acquisition of Riverwalk. Online Business revenues increased $17.9 million during the year ended December 31, 2012, compared to the same period of 2011, primarily reflecting an increase in Online Business handle of 10.9%. Gaming revenues increased $10.5 million, primarily reflecting $10.3 million in revenue generated at Riverwalk, which was acquired on October 23, 2012. In addition, gaming revenues increased $3.4 million at Harlow's during the year ended December 31, 2012, which was closed for twenty-five days during the same period of 2011, as a result of damage sustained from the Mississippi River flooding. These increases were partially offset by a $5.0 million decline at Calder Casino during the year ended December 31, 2012 due to increased regional competitive pressure from the opening of a new casino in Miami during January 2012, along with what we believed to be a weak South Florida economy. Revenues generated by Racing Operations increased $3.2 million, primarily reflecting an increase in revenues at Churchill Downs due to a strong performance from Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby week and a 4% increase in live race days during the year ended December 31, 2012 as compared to the prior year. Furthermore, other operating revenues increased $4.0 million predominantly due to an increase in handle-based revenue from United Tote, and from the effect of our Bluff acquisition, which occurred in February 2012. Further discussion of net revenue variances by our reported segments is detailed below.
Year Ended December 31, 2011, Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2010
Our total net revenues increased $111.5 million primarily related to the continuing expansion of our Gaming and Online Business segments, including the effects of the Youbet and Harlow’s acquisitions. Harlow’s, which was acquired during December 2010, generated $53.2 million of total net revenues despite its closure for twenty-five days during the year ended December 31, 2011, due to the Mississippi River flooding. Calder Casino, which opened on January 20, 2010, increased total revenues by $17.6 million, compared to the same period of 2010 reflecting performance driven by what we believe was an improved economy in South Florida, a revised marketing strategy executed during 2011 and the effect of a full year of operations during 2011. Revenues generated by the Online Business segment increased $44.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2011, compared to the same period of 2010 primarily reflecting the acquisition of Youbet during the second quarter of 2010. During the year ended December 31, 2011, we benefitted from a full year of operations of Youbet, an ADW provider acquired and merged into TwinSpires during 2010, compared to approximately seven months of operations during the year ended December 31, 2010. Racing Operations revenues declined $9.4 million as continued declines in pari-mutuel racing were partly offset by improvements in Kentucky Derby week performance. Finally, other operating revenues increased $6.5 million predominantly due to revenues generated by United Tote, which was acquired as part of the Youbet acquisition during the second quarter of 2010. Further discussion of net revenue variances by our reported segments is detailed below.
Consolidated Operating Expenses
The following table is a summary of our consolidated operating expenses (in thousands):
Year Ended December 31, 2012, Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2011
Significant items affecting comparability of consolidated operating expenses include:
•
Other operating expenses increased $16.9 million, primarily as a result of increased content costs within the Online Business of $8.0 million, which corresponds to the 10.9% increase in pari-mutuel handle during the year ended December 31, 2012. In addition, we incurred $1.7 million in expenses associated with the October 2012 launch of Luckity, our newest ADW venture. We also recognized a non-recurring expense of $0.4 million to credit the wagering accounts of our Online Business customers impacted by incorrect wagering payoffs from a New York Racing Association error that occurred during 2010 and 2011. Furthermore, we recognized a $2.5 million reduction in sales tax expense at Churchill Downs involving a TIF agreement with the Commonwealth of Kentucky during the year ended December 31, 2011. Finally, operating expenses increased $7.5 million due to our acquisitions of Riverwalk and Bluff during the year ended December 31, 2012. Partially offsetting these increases were decreases in labor costs, lower utility expenses and other cost control measures implemented by our Racing Operations during the year ended December 31, 2012.
•
SG&A expenses increased $8.3 million, due, in part, to an increase in equity and long-term incentive compensation expense of $4.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2012, which primarily reflects the amortization of restricted stock awards granted under the Company's long-term incentive plan ("LTIP") for the 2008, 2009 and 2010 LTIP Plan years and an estimate for the 2011 and 2012 LTIP Plan years. In addition, selling and general expenses increased $2.0 million due to our acquisitions of Riverwalk and Bluff during the year ended December 31, 2012. In addition, we incurred non-recurring employee costs of $1.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2012, compared to the same period of 2011. Furthermore, selling, general and administrative expenses increased $0.8 million for the October 2012 launch of Luckity during the year ended December 31, 2012. Finally, TwinSpires incurred expenses of $0.3 million related to a data security incident during the year ended December 31, 2012. Partially offsetting these increases was a recovery of $0.8 million recognized by Calder Casino as a reduction to selling, general and administrative expenses during the year ended December 31, 2012 relating to a reimbursement of certain administrative expenditures associated with a slot machine referendum held in Miami-Dade County during 2005.
•
Insurance recoveries, net of losses, increased $6.0 million, reflecting the final settlement of our property insurance claims related to wind and flood damage sustained at Harlow's during February 2011 and May 2011, respectively.
•
Gaming taxes increased $0.3 million, primarily due to our acquisition of Riverwalk, partially offset by the decline in revenue at Calder Casino resulting from increased competitive pressures from the opening of a new casino in Miami during the year ended December 31, 2012.
Year Ended December 31, 2011, Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2010
Significant items affecting comparability of consolidated operating expenses include:
•
Other operating expenses increased $45.4 million primarily as a result of an increase within the Online Business segment of $24.3 million, which included a full year of added racing content expenses related to the acquisition
of Youbet and compared to approximately seven months of operations by Youbet during the same period of 2010. In addition, we incurred $23.0 million of incremental operating expenses related to Harlow’s. Finally, we incurred incremental operating expenses of $7.6 million related to the operations of United Tote during the year ended December 31, 2011.
Partially offsetting these increases were reductions in sales taxes, software impairment costs and marketing expenses of $3.1 million, $1.3 million, and $1.2 million, respectively. We recognized a reduction in sales tax expense at Churchill Downs involving the TIF agreement with the Commonwealth of Kentucky during the year ended December 31, 2011. Pursuant to the agreement, we are entitled to receive reimbursement of 80% of the increase in Kentucky income and sales taxes driven by the 2005 renovation of the Churchill facility. In addition, during the year ended December 31, 2010, we recognized an impairment loss of $1.3 million associated with the Youbet acquisition. Furthermore, the reduction in marketing primarily reflects a decrease in Kentucky Derby-related marketing expenses at Churchill Downs during the year ended December 31, 2011. Finally, Racing Operations expenses further declined reflecting a decrease in our pari-mutuel handle of 6.4% during the year ended December 31, 2011, which was partially driven by the fact that we conducted fourteen fewer race days compared to the same period of 2010.
•
Depreciation and amortization expense increased $8.6 million primarily due to the effect of including $7.0 million of expense at Harlow’s during the year ended December 31, 2011. In addition, depreciation and amortization expense of the Online Business and United Tote increased $2.7 million and $1.3 million, respectively, during the year ended December 31, 2011. Partially offsetting these increases was a decrease of $1.1 million at Calder Casino, primarily reflecting an accelerated amortization period of the annual slot license fee in the prior year. Finally, depreciation and amortization expenses decreased $1.0 million within our Racing Operations during the year ended December 31, 2011 due to a reduction in capital spending as well as the fact that older assets became fully depreciated during the current period.
•
Gaming taxes increased $7.9 million primarily due to the recognition of $5.8 million at Harlow’s during the year ended December 31, 2011. In addition, Calder Casino incurred $1.9 million of higher gaming taxes related to the increase in gaming revenues during the year ended December 31, 2011.
•
SG&A expenses increased $3.1 million primarily due to the effect of including $5.6 million of additional SG&A expenditures during the year ended December 31, 2011, compared to the same period of 2010 related to our 2010 acquisitions of Youbet and Harlow’s. In addition, equity, LTIP and other employee-related expenses increased $5.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2011, primarily resulting from the favorable financial performance of the Company.
Partially offsetting these increases were lower legal and development expenses of $4.2 million, which we incurred during the year ended December 31, 2010 related to our acquisitions of Youbet and Harlow’s. In addition, Online Business employee-related costs decreased $3.4 million as we incurred compensation expense related to the reorganization of Youbet during the year ended December 31, 2010, and we benefitted from cost synergies related to the merger during the year ended December 31, 2011.
•
Purses and pari-mutuel taxes decreased $2.0 million primarily due to lower purses and pari-mutuel taxes of $6.5 million within our Racing Operations, which was partially attributable to conducting fourteen fewer racing days during the year ended December 31, 2011. This decrease was partially offset by an increase of $3.6 million of purses generated at Calder Casino resulting from improved performance during the year ended December 31, 2011. In addition, pari-mutuel taxes increased within our Online Business as a result of our acquisition of Youbet during the year ended December 31, 2010.
•
Insurance recoveries, net of losses increased $1.0 million related to the tornado damage and wind damage at Churchill Downs and Harlow’s, respectively, during the year ended December 31, 2011.
Other Income (Expense) and Provision for Income Taxes
The following table is a summary of our other income (expense) and income tax provision (in thousands):
Year Ended December 31, 2012, Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2011
Significant items affecting the comparability of other income and expense and the income tax provision include:
•
Miscellaneous other income decreased $22.8 million, primarily reflecting the impact of recognizing income of $19.3 million related to the Horse Racing Equity Trust Fund ("HRE Trust Fund") during the year ended December 31, 2011. In addition, during 2011, we recorded a gain of $2.7 million and the elimination of other income related to the long put option and short call option associated with a related party convertible note payable that was converted into common stock during the year ended December 31, 2011.
•
Interest expense decreased $4.4 million during the year ended December 31, 2012, due in part to lower interest expense of $2.8 million under our revolving credit facility associated with lower average outstanding debt balances during the year ended December 31, 2012, compared to the same period of 2011. In addition, during 2012, we did not incur interest expense related to the convertible note payable which was converted during the prior year. During the year ended December 31, 2011, interest expense, including conversion charges, of $1.6 million was incurred, associated with the convertible note payable.
•
Equity in loss of unconsolidated investments increased $0.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2012, related to our investment in MVG.
Year Ended December 31, 2011, Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2010
Significant items affecting the comparability of other income and expense and the income tax provision include:
•
Miscellaneous other income increased $20.7 million primarily reflecting the impact of recognizing income of $19.3 million from the release of the restrictions on the HRE Trust Fund proceeds during the year ended December 31, 2011. In addition, we recorded a gain of $2.7 million from the conversion of a related party convertible note payable through the issuance of 452,603 shares of our common stock and the elimination of the associated short forward contract and long put option during the year ended December 31, 2011. Partially offsetting these increases was a decrease of $1.3 million in miscellaneous other income as we recognized a gain related to a third-party settlement during the year ended December 31, 2010.
•
Interest expense increased $2.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2011, primarily due to the recognition of $1.6 million of interest expense associated with the conversion of a related party convertible note payable. In addition, we experienced higher average outstanding debt balances under our revolving credit facility during the first half of the year, which was used to finance the acquisitions of Youbet and Harlow’s.
•
Equity in loss of unconsolidated investments increased primarily as a result of $1.2 million of equity losses recognized related to our investment in HRTV during 2011 compared to $0.7 million of equity losses experienced during 2010.
•
The increase in the effective tax rate is primarily due to the recognition of a 6.9% benefit during the year ended December 31, 2010 from the settlement of a federal income tax matter related to prior years’ Personal Seat License revenues at Churchill Downs. Furthermore, we recognized 8.4% of one-time benefits, during the year ended December 31, 2010, primarily related to deductions for local lobbying expenses that were previously
treated as non-deductible lobbying expenses. During the year ended December 31, 2011, we recognized income tax benefits resulting in a reduction to the effective tax rate of approximately 2.0%. The benefits were the result of a TIF agreement with the Commonwealth of Kentucky and the adjustment of permanent differences to reflect positions taken on federal income tax returns. These benefits were partially offset by tax expenses associated with taxes accrued for uncertain tax positions as well as the true-up of prior year taxes.
Net Revenues By Segment
The following table presents net revenues, including intercompany revenues, by our reported segments (in thousands):
Year Ended December 31, 2012, Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2011
Significant items affecting comparability of our revenues by segment include:
•
Online Business revenues increased $17.9 million, reflecting an 10.9% increase in our pari-mutuel handle, from both continuing organic growth in customers and an increase in average daily wagering from existing customers.
•
Gaming revenues increased $10.5 million, primarily reflecting revenue generated at Riverwalk, which was acquired on October 23, 2012. In addition, gaming revenues increased $3.4 million at Harlow's during the year ended December 31, 2012, which was closed for twenty-five days during the same period of 2011 as a result of Mississippi River flood damage. Partially offsetting these increases was a decrease in net revenues of $5.0 million at Calder Casino during the year ended December 31, 2012. Calder Casino slot revenues declined 5.0% as a result of increased regional competitive pressures from a new casino in Miami, which opened during January 2012, and what we believed to be a weak South Florida economy.
•
Other Investments revenues increased $4.8 million, due, in part, to an increase in handle-based revenues at United Tote during the year ended December 31, 2012. In addition, we benefitted from our acquisition of Bluff during the year ended December 31, 2012.
•
Racing Operations revenues increased $4.0 million, primarily reflecting an increase in revenues at Churchill Downs due to a strong performance from Kentucky Oaks and Derby week and thirteen additional live race days during the year ended December 31, 2012, as compared to the same period during 2011. These increases were partially offset by the impact of not hosting the Breeders' Cup during 2012, which was held at Churchill Downs during the year ended December 31, 2011.
Year Ended December 31, 2011, Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2010
Significant items affecting comparability of our revenues by segment include:
•
Gaming segment revenues increased as we benefitted from the acquisition of Harlow’s during December 2010.
During the year ended December 31, 2011, Harlow’s recognized total net revenues of $53.2 million despite its closure for twenty-five days due to the Mississippi River flooding. Calder Casino, which opened on January 22, 2010, increased revenues $17.6 million compared to the same period of the prior year, reflecting a full year of operations and improved performance driven by a new marketing strategy executed during 2011. Fair Grounds Slots and VSI reported an increase in revenues of $2.2 million compared to the same period of 2010, reflecting an increase in the number of slot machines available at Fair Grounds Slots and improved performance at our video poker locations compared to the same period of 2010.
•
Online Business revenues increased $44.1 million as we benefitted from the acquisition of Youbet during June 2010, primarily reflecting a 36.1% increase in handle.
•
Other Investments revenues increased $7.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2011, primarily reflecting the contribution by United Tote, which was acquired as part of the Youbet acquisition during June 2010.
•
Racing Operations revenues decreased $6.8 million primarily reflecting a decline in pari-mutuel revenues of $12.6 million which corresponds to a 6.4% decrease in Racing Operations handle during the year ended December 31, 2011. According to figures published by Equibase, the pari-mutuel industry handle declined 5.7% compared to the same period of 2010. Calder revenues, particularly those related to export wagering, decreased due to ten fewer race days conducted during the year ended December 31, 2011, compared to the same period of 2010. Partially offsetting this decrease was strong performance from Kentucky Oaks and Derby week at Churchill Downs during the year ended December 31, 2011.
Segment EBITDA
We use EBITDA (defined as earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization), a non-GAAP measure, as a key performance measure of our results of operations for purposes of evaluating performance internally. Management believes that the use of this measure enables management and investors to evaluate and compare from period to period our operating performance in a meaningful and consistent manner. EBITDA is a supplemental measure of the Company’s performance that is not required by, or presented in accordance with, generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). However, EBITDA should not be considered as an alternative to, or more meaningful than, net earnings (as determined in accordance with GAAP) as a measure of our operating results. The following table presents EBITDA by our operating segments and a reconciliation of EBITDA to net earnings (in thousands):
The table below presents management fees (expense) income included in the EBITDA of each of the operating segments for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively (in thousands).
Year Ended December 31, 2012, Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2011
Significant items affecting comparability of our EBITDA by segment include:
•
Racing Operations EBITDA decreased $13.5 million, which primarily reflects the net impact of recognizing income of $19.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2011 from the release of restrictions on the HRE Trust Fund proceeds. In addition, during the year ended December 31, 2011, we recognized a $3.1 million reduction in operating expenses from a TIF agreement with the Commonwealth of Kentucky as compared to $0.7 million reduction in operating expenses during the year ended December 31, 2012. Furthermore, Churchill Downs benefitted from hosting the Breeders' Cup during the year ended December 31, 2011. Finally, Racing Operations incurred higher corporate management fee expense of $0.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2012. Partially offsetting these declines was increased profitability of $5.4 million from the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby week related to improvements in admissions, sponsorships, and pari-mutuel revenues during the year ended December 31, 2012. Finally, Racing Operations EBITDA benefitted from lower labor costs, utility expenses and other cost control measures as compared to the same period of 2011.
•
Gaming EBITDA increased $10.8 million, primarily due to the settlement of our insurance claims, a full year of operations at Harlow's and the acquisition of Riverwalk. Harlow's generated EBITDA of $26.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2012 compared to EBITDA of $17.5 million during the prior year. Harlow's results included insurance recoveries, net of losses, of $6.5 million and $0.4 million during the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The improvement in Harlow's profitability during 2012, excluding insurance recoveries, is due to the closure of the facility for twenty-five days during 2011 due to Mississippi River flooding. In addition, our acquisition of Riverwalk generated EBITDA of $2.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2012. Partially offsetting these increases was a decline in EBITDA at Calder Casino, which generated EBITDA of $12.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2012, compared to EBITDA of $13.7 million during the prior year. Results at Calder Casino were negatively impacted by a 5.0% decrease in slot revenues, primarily due to increased regional competitive pressures from a new casino in Miami which opened during January 2012, and what we believed to be a weak South Florida economy. Partially offsetting the decline in gaming revenues at Calder Casino was the recognition of proceeds of $0.8 million as a reduction to SG&A expenses during the year ended December 31, 2012, relating to a reimbursement of certain administrative expenditures for a prior year slot machine referendum. Our Louisiana operations generated EBITDA of $25.8 million during each of the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011.
•
Corporate EBITDA decreased $5.8 million, as we recognized higher long-term incentive compensation expenses of $4.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2012, related to the financial performance of the Company. In addition, during the prior year, we recognized a gain of $2.7 million related to the conversion of a related party convertible note payable. Finally, EBITDA decreased during the year ended December 31, 2012 due to increases of $1.0 million in professional and legal fees and $0.4 million in facility expenses associated with our corporate office relocation. Partially offsetting these decreases in EBITDA was an increase in the corporate management fee income of $2.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2012.
•
Online Business EBITDA increased $2.5 million, primarily reflecting an 10.9% increase in our pari-mutuel handle from continuing organic growth in customers during the year ended December 31, 2012. Partially offsetting this increase were nonrecurring employee costs of $1.1 million in addition to expenditures of $2.5 million related to the October 2012 launch of Luckity, our newest ADW venture. In addition, we incurred increased losses of $0.7 million related to our equity investment in HRTV and $0.4 million in expenditures to
credit the wagering accounts of our Online Business customers impacted by incorrect wagering payoffs from a New York Racing Association error that occurred during 2010 and 2011.
•
Other Investments EBITDA decreased $1.3 million primarily due to expenditures related to our equity investment in MVG and our acquisition of Bluff during the year ended December 31, 2012.
Year Ended December 31, 2011, Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2010
Significant items affecting comparability of our EBITDA by segment include:
•
Gaming EBITDA increased $28.5 million as we benefitted from the acquisition of Harlow’s during December 2010, which generated $17.5 million of EBITDA, after corporate allocations of $1.9 million, compared to EBITDA of $1.2 million in the prior year. Harlow's EBITDA generated during 2011 included business interruption insurance recoveries of $0.4 million. In addition, Calder Casino generated EBITDA of $13.7 million, after corporate allocations of $3.0 million, compared to EBITDA of $3.7 million in the prior year, which included $1.1 million of preopening expenses and $2.0 million of corporate allocations. Fair Grounds Slots and VSI EBITDA increased $2.2 million to $25.8 million, primarily reflecting operating efficiencies at our video poker locations compared to the same period of 2010.
•
Racing Operations EBITDA increased $28.0 million partially reflecting the net impact of the release of the restrictions on the HRE Trust Fund proceeds of $19.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2011. In addition, Racing Operations benefitted from increased profitability of $6.4 million from Kentucky Oaks and Derby week during the year ended December 31, 2011. In addition, during the year ended December 31, 2011, we recognized a $3.1 million reduction in operating expenses at Churchill Downs involving the TIF agreement with the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Finally, during the year ended December 31, 2011, we received insurance recoveries in excess of losses of $0.6 million for the tornado damage at Churchill Downs. Partially offsetting these improvements in EBITDA was a decline in our pari-mutuel handle of 6.4% during the year ended December 31, 2011, which negatively affected our racing results and was indicative of the continued, overall weakness of the pari-mutuel industry and our conducting fourteen fewer race days compared to the same period of 2010.
•
Online Business EBITDA increased $20.5 million from synergy savings from combining the operations of Youbet and Twinspires as well as an additional five months of Youbet operations during 2011. The Online Business generated EBITDA of $37.7 million during 2011, after corporate allocations of $6.0 million, compared to EBITDA of $17.2 million during 2010, after corporate allocations of $5.0 million. Additionally, the increase in EBITDA was also due to one-time charges related to the reorganization of Youbet during the year ended December 31, 2010.
•
Corporate EBITDA increased $3.0 million primarily due to the recognition of a gain of $2.7 million related to the conversion of a related party convertible note payable during the year ended December 31, 2011. In addition, we incurred lower development expenses of $3.2 million related to our acquisitions of Youbet and Harlow’s during 2010. Finally, the corporate management fee increased $2.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2011. Partially offsetting these increases in EBITDA were higher equity and long-term incentive compensation expenses and other employee-related costs of $4.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2011, related to the financial performance of the Company. In addition, we recognized a gain related to a third-party settlement of $1.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2010.
Discontinued Operations
The following table presents losses from discontinued operations, which includes the results of operations of Hoosier Park, Churchill Downs Entertainment Group ("CDE"), Hollywood Park Racetrack and Ellis Park for the years ended December, 2012, 2011 and 2010 (in thousands):
During the year ended December 31, 2011, we recognized a gain on sale of Hoosier Park of $3.4 million associated with the final settlement of the contingent consideration provision of the Partnership Interest Purchase Agreement. In addition, we recognized a gain on sale of Hollywood Park of $0.2 million upon the expiration of an indemnity of certain contractual obligations related to the sale of Hollywood Park in 2005.
During the year ended December 31, 2010, we ceased operations of CDE, an entity created to conceive and produce large-scale entertainment events. The loss from operations for CDE for the year ended December 31, 2010 was $5.8 million. In addition, we recognized a gain on sale of $4.4 million upon the expiration of an indemnity entered into in accordance with the sale of Hollywood Park Racetrack during 2005, under which we agreed to indemnify the purchaser for any withdrawal liability incurred in connection with a complete or partial withdrawal from various noncontributory defined benefit multi-employer retirement plans.
Consolidated Balance Sheet
The following table is a summary of our overall financial position as of December 31, 2012 and 2011 (in thousands):
Significant items affecting comparability of our consolidated balance sheet include:
•
Total assets increased primarily due to assets assumed and intangibles recorded of $142.0 million, net of cash, associated with the Riverwalk acquisition. Excluding Riverwalk assets acquired, significant other changes within total assets include increases in other assets of $21.9 million, goodwill of $3.9 million and other current assets of $2.3 million. The increase in other assets is primarily due to our investment in MVG of $19.9 million during the year ended December 31, 2012. Goodwill increased $3.9 million during the period due to our acquisition of Bluff. Other current assets increased $2.3 million due to an increase in inventory associated with United Tote operations and a general increase in prepaid assets generated by the overall growth of the Company.
Partially offsetting these increases was a decrease in restricted cash of $6.3 million. Restricted cash declined primarily due to a reduction of $10.7 million related to the horsemen's portion of the HRE Trust Fund proceeds.
•
Significant changes within total liabilities include an increase in total outstanding debt of $82.2 million, reflecting borrowings associated with the Riverwalk acquisition, partially offset by repayments of previous acquisition debt funded by cash from operations. In addition, accrued liabilities increased $12.5 million due primarily to the timing of payments during the year ended December 31, 2012, and current deferred revenue increased $10.4 million primarily related to the timing of billings for the 2013 Kentucky Derby and Churchill Downs spring meet.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
The following table is a summary of our liquidity and cash flows (in thousands):
•
The decrease in cash provided by operating activities is primarily due to the recognition of proceeds from the HRE Trust Fund during the year ended December 31, 2011. In addition, income taxes decreased by $8.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2012 primarily due to the receipt of an income tax refund of $10.4 million during 2011 from the overpayment of estimated 2010 federal income taxes. We anticipate that cash flows from operations over the next twelve months will be adequate to fund our business operations and capital expenditures.
•
The increase in cash used in investing activities is primarily due to the acquisitions of Riverwalk and Bluff and our investment in MVG during the year ended December 31, 2012. In addition, capital expenditures increased related to our renovation and improvement project at Harlow's and the relocation of our corporate offices. Partially offsetting these uses of cash was the receipt of insurance proceeds of $10.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2012 related to natural disasters which occurred during 2011 at Harlow's and during 2012 at Churchill Downs.
•
The increase in cash provided by financing activities is primarily due to an increase in net borrowings under our revolving credit facilities of $82.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2012, which were incurred primarily to finance the acquisition of Riverwalk and our investment in MVG, as compared to net repayments of $137.6 million during the prior year.
During 2012, as part of our MVG joint venture, we incurred obligations to fund future capital contributions to the joint venture, which we expect to approximate $25.1 million during 2013. There were no other material changes in our commitments to make future payments or in our contractual obligations during the year ended December 31, 2012. As of December 31, 2012, we were in compliance with the debt covenants of our revolving credit facilities. As of December 31, 2012, we had $159 million of borrowing capacity under our revolving credit facilities. During 2013, we expect to refinance our existing credit facility into a new, long-term borrowing agreement which we anticipate will provide sufficient capital resources and liquidity to satisfy our operating needs for the next twelve months.
Free cash flow, which we reconcile to “Net cash provided by operating activities,” is cash flows from operations reduced by maintenance-related (replacement) capital expenditures. Maintenance-related capital expenditures are expenditures to replace existing fixed assets with a useful life greater than one year that are obsolete, worn-out or no longer cost effective to repair. We use free cash flow to evaluate our business because, although it is similar to cash flow from operations, we believe it will typically present a more conservative measure of cash flows as maintenance-related capital expenditures are a necessary component of our ongoing operations. Free cash flow is a non-GAAP measure, and our definition may differ from other companies’ definitions of this measure.
Free cash flow does not represent the residual cash flow available for discretionary expenditures and does not incorporate the funding of business acquisitions or capital projects that expand existing facilities or create a new facility. This non-GAAP measure should not be considered a substitute for, or superior to, cash flows from operating activities under GAAP.
The following is a summary of additions to property and equipment and a reconciliation of free cash flow to the most comparable GAAP measure, “Net cash provided by operating activities,” for 2012, 2011 and 2010 (in thousands):
During the year ended December 31, 2012, the increase in capital project expenditures as compared to the same period of 2011 primarily reflects capital expenditures related to renovations underway at Harlow’s, our corporate office relocation and the launch of Luckity, our newest ADW business. During 2012, we funded capital expenditures of approximately $11.0 million related to Harlow’s renovations, which were offset by the receipt of insurance recoveries. The decrease in cash provided by operating activities is primarily due to the prior year recognition of proceeds from the HRE Trust Fund and the receipt of refunds of $10.4 million from filing prior years' amended federal income tax returns during the year ended December 31, 2011.
During the year ended December 31, 2011, the decrease in capital project expenditures as compared to the same period of 2010 primarily reflects the completion of our capital expenditures related to Calder Casino and the Arlington land purchase during 2010. The increase in cash provided by operating activities is primarily due to the expansion of the Gaming and Online segments, the recognition of proceeds from the HRE Trust Fund, the increased profitability of Kentucky Oaks and Derby week and the receipt of prior year federal income tax refunds.
Credit Facilities and Indebtedness
On November 1, 2010, we entered into Amendment No. 1 to the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Credit Facility”), which amends certain provisions of the credit agreement and provided for the exercise of the accordion feature whereby the maximum aggregate commitment was increased from $275 million to $375 million. Additionally, the Credit Facility reduced the pricing schedule for outstanding borrowings by 37.5 basis points and commitment fees by 5 basis points across all leverage pricing levels. The guarantors under the Credit Facility continue to be certain of the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiaries, representing a majority of the Company’s operating revenues. We also incurred loan origination costs of approximately $0.5 million in connection with the Amendment, which were capitalized and are being amortized as interest expense over the remaining term of the credit agreement. During 2013, we expect to refinance our existing credit facility into a new, long-term borrowing agreement which we anticipate will provide sufficient capital resources and liquidity to satisfy our operating needs for the next twelve months. As of December 31, 2012, we had $159 million in credit available for borrowings.
Generally, borrowings made pursuant to the Credit Facility will bear interest at a LIBOR-based rate per annum plus an applicable percentage ranging from 1.625% to 3.125% depending on certain of the Company’s financial ratios. In addition, under the Credit Facility, we agreed to pay a commitment fee at rates that range from 0.25% to 0.45% of the available aggregate commitment, depending on the Company’s leverage ratio.
The Credit Facility contains customary affirmative and negative covenants for credit facilities of this type, including limitations on the Company and its subsidiaries with respect to indebtedness, restricted payments, liens, investments, mergers and acquisitions, disposition of assets, sale-leaseback transactions and transactions with affiliates. The covenants permit the Company to use proceeds of the credit extended under the agreement for general corporate purposes and acquisition needs. The Credit Facility also contains financial covenants that require the Company (i) to maintain an interest coverage ratio (i.e., consolidated EBITDA to consolidated interest expense) that is greater than 3.5 to 1.0; (ii) not to permit the leverage ratio (i.e., consolidated funded indebtedness to consolidated EBITDA) to be greater than 3.25 to 1.0; and (iii) to maintain consolidated net worth (with certain exceptions) of not less than the sum of (x) $350,000,000, (y) 50% of consolidated net income earned in each fiscal year beginning with the Company’s fiscal year ending December 31, 2009 and (z) 100% of the net proceeds of any future debt and equity offerings. As of December 31, 2012, the Company was in compliance with all covenants under the Credit Facility. Substantially all of the Company’s assets continue to be pledged as collateral under the Credit Facility.
Contractual Obligations
Our commitments to make future payments as of December 31, 2012 are summarized as follows (in thousands):
(1)
Interest includes the estimated contractual payments under our revolving credit facility assuming no change in the borrowing rate of 1.9%, which was the rate in place as of December 31, 2012.
As of December 31, 2012, we had approximately $8.6 million of unrecognized tax benefits. We anticipate a decrease in our unrecognized tax benefits of approximately $8.0 million during the next twelve months as we expect to reach a settlement with the applicable taxing authority for the majority of these tax benefits.
ITEM 7A.
ITEM 7A.
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Our primary exposure to market risk relates to changes in interest rates. At December 31, 2012, we had $209.7 million outstanding under our revolving credit facility, which bears interest at LIBOR based variable rates. We are exposed to market risk on variable rate debt due to potential adverse changes in these rates. Assuming the outstanding balance of the debt facilities remain constant, a one-percentage point increase in the LIBOR rate would reduce annual earnings and cash flows from operating activities by $1.3 million.
ITEM 8.
ITEM 8.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders
of Churchill Downs Incorporated
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements listed in the index appearing under item 15(a)(1) present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Churchill Downs Incorporated and its subsidiaries at December 31, 2012 and 2011, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2012 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In addition, in our opinion, the financial statement schedule listed in the index appearing under item 15(a)(2) presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein when read in conjunction with the related consolidated financial statements. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company’s management is responsible for these financial statements and financial statement schedule, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting appearing under item 9A. Our responsibility is to express opinions on these financial statements, on the financial statement schedule and on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our integrated audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audits of the financial statements included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.
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 (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) 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 (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its 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.
As described in Management's Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting appearing under Item 9A, management has excluded Riverwalk Casino and Hotel from its assessment of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012 because it was acquired by the Company in a purchase business combination during 2012. We have also excluded Riverwalk Casino and Hotel from our audit of internal control over financial reporting. Riverwalk Casino and Hotel is a wholly-owned subsidiary whose total assets and total revenues represent 13.4% and 1.4% respectively, of the related consolidated financial statement amounts as of and for the year ended December 31, 2012.
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Louisville, Kentucky
February 27, 2013
CHURCHILL DOWNS INCORPORATED
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
December 31,
(in thousands)
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
CHURCHILL DOWNS INCORPORATED
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
for the years ended December 31,
(in thousands, except per common share data)
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
CHURCHILL DOWNS INCORPORATED
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010
(in thousands, except per common share data)
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
CHURCHILL DOWNS INCORPORATED
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (continued)
Years ended December 31,
(in thousands)
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
Churchill Downs Incorporated
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
NOTE 1-BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of Presentation
Churchill Downs Incorporated (the “Company”) is a diversified provider of pari-mutuel horseracing, casino gaming, entertainment, and is the country’s premier source of online account wagering on horseracing events. The Company offers gaming products through its casinos in Mississippi, its slot and video poker operations in Louisiana and its slot and poker operations in Florida.
The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Calder Race Course, Inc. and Tropical Park, Inc. which hold licenses to conduct pari-mutuel wagering and horseracing at Calder Race Course (“Calder”), Arlington International Race Course, LLC (“Arlington”), Churchill Downs Louisiana Horseracing Company, LLC (“CDI Louisiana”), Churchill Downs Louisiana Video Poker Company, LLC (“CD Louisiana Video”) and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Video Services, LLC (“VSI”), SW Gaming, LLC (“Harlow’s”), Magnolia Hill, LLC ("Riverwalk"), Churchill Downs Technology Initiatives Company (“CDTIC”), the owner and operator of TwinSpires and United Tote Company, Inc. (“United Tote”), Churchill Downs Investment Company (“CDIC”), Bluff Media ("Bluff"), as well as the Company's equity investment in HRTV, LLC (“HRTV”) and a 50% joint venture in Miami Valley Gaming & Racing LLC ("MVG'). All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
The Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income include net revenues and operating expenses associated with the Company's Racing Operations, Gaming, Online Business and Other Investments operating segments and are defined as follows:
Racing: net revenues and corresponding operating expenses associated with commissions earned on wagering at the Company’s racetracks, off-track betting facilities (“OTBs”) and simulcast fees earned from other wagering sites. In addition, amounts include ancillary revenues and expenses generated by the pari-mutuel facilities including admissions, sponsorships and licensing rights, food and beverage sales and fees for the alternative uses of its facilities.
Gaming: net revenues and corresponding operating expenses generated from slot machines, table games and video poker. In addition, it includes ancillary revenues and expenses generated by food and beverage sales, hotel operations revenue and miscellaneous other revenue.
Online: net revenues and corresponding operating expenses generated by the Company’s Advance Deposit Wagering (“ADW”) business from wagering through the Internet, telephone or other mobile devices on pari-mutuel events. In addition, it includes the Company’s information business that provides data information and processing services to the equine industry.
Other: net revenues and corresponding operating expenses generated by United Tote Company, the Company’s provider of pari-mutuel wagering systems and Bluff.
Current Year Reclassification
During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company merged the operations of Churchill Downs Simulcast Productions ("CDSP"), the Company's provider of television productions services, which was previously included in other investments, with its Racing Operations. Net revenues and operating expenses of CDSP for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation. There was no impact from these reclassifications on consolidated net revenues, operating income, results of continuing operations, or cash flows.
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Cash Equivalents
The Company considers investments with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents. The Company has, from time to time, cash in the bank in excess of federally insured limits. Checks issued but not presented to banks frequently result in overdraft balances for accounting purposes and are classified as a current liability in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Restricted Cash
Restricted cash represents amounts due to horsemen for purses, stakes and awards as well as customer deposits collected for advance deposit wagering. In addition, as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, restricted cash included $12.9 million and $23.6 million, respectively, of funds related to the Horse Racing Equity Trust Fund proceeds in Illinois, as further described in Note 17.
Churchill Downs Incorporated
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable
The Company maintains an allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of its customers to make required payments. The allowance is maintained at a level considered appropriate based on historical and other factors that affect collectability. Uncollectible accounts receivable are written off against the allowance for doubtful accounts receivable when management determines that the probability of payment is remote and collection efforts have ceased.
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment are recorded at cost. Depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets as follows: 10 to 40 years for grandstands and buildings, 3 to 18 years for equipment, 2 to 10 years for furniture and fixtures and 10 to 20 years for tracks and other improvements.
Intangible Assets
The Company determines the initial carrying value of its intangible assets in accordance with purchase accounting based on the anticipated future cash flows relating to the intangible asset. For definite-lived intangible assets, the Company assigns useful lives based upon the estimated economic life of each intangible and amortizes them accordingly. Definite-lived intangible assets are being amortized over their estimated useful lives ranging from one to thirty years using the straight-line method.
Goodwill is tested for impairment on an annual basis or between annual tests if events occur or circumstances indicate there may be impairment. In 2012, in connection with its annual impairment testing, the Company adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") ASU No. 2011-08, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other: Testing Goodwill for Impairment which allows an entity the option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether the existence of events or circumstances leads to a determination that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If, after assessing the totality of events or circumstances, an entity determines it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than the carrying amount, then the Company would perform the two step goodwill impairment test. The first step, used to identify potential impairment, is a comparison of the reporting unit's estimated fair value to its carrying value, including goodwill. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, applicable goodwill is considered not to be impaired. If the carrying value exceeds fair value, there is an indication of impairment and the second step is performed to measure the amount of the impairment, if any. The second step of the goodwill impairment test consists of comparing the implied fair value of reporting unit goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill. If the carrying amount of reporting unit goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized equal to such excess. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner, as when determining the amount of goodwill recognized in a business combination.
The Company considers its slots gaming rights and trademark intangible assets as indefinite-lived intangible assets that do not require amortization based on its future expectations to operate its gaming facilities indefinitely, as well as its historical experience in renewing these intangible assets at minimal cost with various state gaming commissions. Rather, these intangible assets are tested annually, or more frequently, if indicators of impairment exist, by comparing the fair value of the recorded assets to their carrying amount. If the carrying amount of the slots gaming rights and trademark intangible assets exceed their fair value, an impairment loss is recognized. The Company completed the required annual impairment tests of goodwill and indefinite lived intangible assets during the quarter ended March 31, 2012, and no adjustment to the carrying values of goodwill or indefinite lived intangible assets was required.
During 2013, the Company intends to adopt ASU No. 2012-02, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other: Testing Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets for Impairment which permits an entity to qualitatively assess whether the fair value of an indefinite-lived intangible asset is less than its carrying value.
Long-lived Assets-Impairments
In the event that facts and circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of tangible assets and other long-lived assets or groups of assets may be impaired, an evaluation of recoverability is performed. If an evaluation is required, the estimated future undiscounted cash flows associated with the assets is compared to the assets’ carrying amount to determine if an impairment loss should be recorded. The impairment loss is based on the excess, if any, of the carrying value over the fair value of the assets.
Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities
The Company adheres to a hierarchy for ranking the quality and reliability of the information used to determine fair values. Assets and liabilities that are carried at fair value are classified and disclosed in one of the following three categories: Level 1: Unadjusted quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities; Level 2: Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for similar assets or liabilities, unadjusted quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, or inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability; and Level 3: Unobservable inputs for the asset or
Churchill Downs Incorporated
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
liability. The Company endeavors to utilize the best available information in measuring fair value. Financial assets and liabilities are classified based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement.
Internal Use Software
The Company capitalized internal use software primarily related to its Online Business of approximately $5.2 million, $3.2 million and $4.4 million during the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The estimated useful life of costs capitalized is generally three years. During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, the amortization of capitalized costs totaled approximately $3.4 million, $3.5 million and $1.7 million, respectively. Capitalized internal use software is included in property and equipment, net. The Company records internal use software in accordance with current accounting guidance governing computer software developed or obtained for internal use.
Loan Origination Costs
During the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company incurred $0.1 million and $0.2 million, respectively, in loan origination costs associated with the second amended and restated credit facility, which were capitalized and are being amortized as interest expense over the remaining term of the credit facility.
Revenue Recognition
Pari-mutuel revenues are recognized upon occurrence of the live race that is presented for wagering and after that live race is made official by the respective state’s racing regulatory body. Gaming revenues represent net gaming wins, which is the difference between gaming wins and losses. Other operating revenues such as admissions, programs and concession revenues are recognized once delivery of the product or services has occurred.
Approximately 50% of the Company’s revenues for the year ended December 31, 2012 are generated by pari-mutuel wagering on live and simulcast racing content through OTBs and ADW providers. Live racing handle includes patron wagers made on live races at the Company’s racetracks and also wagers made on imported simulcast signals by patrons at the Company’s racetracks during live meets. Import simulcasting handle includes wagers on imported signals at the Company’s racetracks when the respective tracks are not conducting live racing meets, at the Company’s OTBs and through the Company’s ADW providers throughout the year. Export handle includes all patron wagers made on live racing signals sent to other tracks, OTBs and ADW providers. Advance deposit wagering consists of patron wagers through an advance deposit account.
The Company retains as revenue a predetermined percentage or commission on the total amount wagered, and the balance is distributed to the winning patrons. The gross percentages earned approximated 10% of handle for our Racing Operations segment and 20% of handle for our Online Business segment. The Company is subject to pari-mutuel and gaming taxes based on pari-mutuel and gaming revenues in the jurisdictions in which it operates. These taxes are recorded as an operating expense in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income.
Customer Loyalty Programs
The Company's customer loyalty programs offer incentives to customers who wager at the Company’s racetracks, through its advance deposit wagering platform, TwinSpires.com, or at its gaming facilities. The TSC Elite program, which was introduced during the year ended December 31, 2012 to replace the previous program, TwinSpires Club, is for pari-mutuel wagering at the Company’s racetracks or through TwinSpires.com. The Player’s Club is offered at the Company’s gaming facilities in Louisiana, Florida and Mississippi. Under the programs, customers are able to accumulate points over time that they may redeem for cash, free play, merchandise or food and beverage items at their discretion under the terms of the programs. As a result of the ability of the customer to accumulate points, the Company accrues the cost of points, after consideration of estimated forfeitures, as they are earned. For the TSC Elite program, the estimated value of the cost to redeem points is recorded as the points are earned. To arrive at the estimated cost associated with points, estimates and assumptions are made regarding incremental costs of the benefits, rates and the mix of goods and services for which points will be redeemed. For the Player’s Cub program, the retail value of the points-based cash awards or complimentary goods and services is netted against revenue as a promotional allowance. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the outstanding reward point liability was $2.1 million and $2.6 million, respectively.
Promotional Allowances
Promotional allowances, which include the Company’s customer loyalty programs, primarily consist of the retail value of complimentary goods and services provided to guests at no charge. The retail value of these promotional allowances is included in gross revenue and then deducted to arrive at net revenue.
During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, promotional allowances of $21.5 million, $17.1 million and $9.4 million, respectively, were included as a reduction to net revenues. During those periods, Online promotional allowances were
Churchill Downs Incorporated
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
$9.3 million, $6.5 million and $2.7 million, Gaming promotional allowances were $11.2 million, $8.7 million and $4.4 million, and Racing promotional allowances were $1.0 million, $2.0 million and $2.3 million, respectively. The estimated cost of providing promotional allowances is included in operating expenses for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 and totaled $5.7 million, $4.5 million and $1.9 million, respectively.
Deferred Revenue
Deferred revenue includes advance sales related to the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks races in Kentucky and other advance billings on racing events. Revenues from these advance billings are recognized when the related event occurs. Deferred revenue also includes advance sales of Personal Seat Licenses (“PSLs”) and luxury suites. PSLs represent the ownership of a specific seat for the Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Oaks and Breeders’ Cup races at Churchill Downs and have a contractual life of either one, three, five or thirty years.
Revenue from PSLs is recognized when the Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Oaks and Breeders’ Cup races occur on a ratable basis over the term of the contract. Luxury suites are sold for specific racing events as well as for a predetermined contractual term. Revenue related to the sale of luxury suites is recognized as they are utilized when the related event occurs.
Pari-mutuel and Gaming Taxes
The Company recognizes pari-mutuel and gaming tax expense based on the statutorily required percentage of revenue that is required to be paid to state and local jurisdictions in the states in which wagering occurs. Individual states and local jurisdictions set pari-mutuel tax rates which range from 0.25% to 3.5% of the total handle wagered by patrons. Gaming tax rates range from 1.5% to 35% of net gaming revenue.
Purse Expense
The Company recognizes purse expense based on the statutorily required percentage of revenue that is required to be paid out in the form of purses to the qualifying finishers of horseraces run at the Company’s racetracks in the period in which wagering occurs. The Company incurs a liability for all unpaid purses to be paid out. The Company may pay out purses in excess of statutorily required amounts resulting in purse overpayments, which are expensed as incurred. Recoveries of purse overpayments are recognized in the period they are realized.
Income Taxes
In accordance with the liability method of accounting for income taxes, the Company recognizes the amount of taxes payable or refundable for the current year and deferred tax assets and liabilities for the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in the consolidated financial statements or tax returns.
Adjustments to deferred taxes are determined based upon the changes in differences between the book basis and tax basis of assets and liabilities, measured by enacted tax rates the Company estimates will be applicable when these differences are expected to reverse. Changes in current tax laws, enacted tax rates or the estimated level of taxable income or non-deductible expenses could change the valuation of deferred tax assets and liabilities and affect the overall effective tax rate and tax provision.
When tax returns are filed, it is highly certain that some positions taken will be sustained upon examination by the taxing authorities, while others are subject to uncertainty about the merits of the position taken or the amount of the position that will be ultimately sustained. The benefit of a tax position is recognized in the financial statements in the period during which, based on all available evidence, management believes it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination, including the resolution of appeals or litigation processes, if any. Tax positions taken are not offset or aggregated with other positions. Tax positions that meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold are measured as the largest amount of tax benefit that is more than 50 percent likely of being realized upon settlement with the applicable taxing authority. The portion of the benefits associated with the tax positions taken that exceeds the amount measured as described above is reflected as a liability for unrecognized tax benefits in the accompanying balance sheet along with any associated interest and penalties that would be payable to the taxing authorities upon examination.
Uncashed Winning Tickets
The Company’s policy for uncashed winning pari-mutuel tickets follows the requirements as set forth by each state’s pari-mutuel wagering laws. The Company will either remit uncashed pari-mutuel ticket winnings to the state according to the state’s escheat or pari-mutuel laws or will maintain the liability during the required holding period according to state law at which time the Company will recognize it as income.
Churchill Downs Incorporated
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Insurance Recoveries
In connection with losses incurred from natural disasters, insurance proceeds are collected on existing business interruption and property and casualty insurance policies. When losses are sustained in one accounting period and the amounts to be recovered are collected in a subsequent accounting period, management uses estimates and judgment to determine the amounts that are probable of recovery. Estimated losses, net of anticipated insurance recoveries, are recognized in the period the natural disaster occurs and the amount of the loss is determinable. To the extent that insurance proceeds received are less than the carrying value of the assets impaired, the proceeds are reported in the statement of cash flows as an investing activity. Insurance recoveries in excess of estimated losses are recognized when realizable and are reported in net earnings in the statement of cash flows as an operating activity.
Workers’ Compensation and General Liability Self-Insurance
The Company is substantially self-insured for losses related to workers’ compensation and general liability claims with stop-loss insurance for both coverages. Losses are accrued based upon the Company’s undiscounted estimates of the aggregate liability for claims incurred based on historical experience and certain actuarial assumptions. Expected recoveries from third party insurance companies are also estimated and accrued.
Advertising
The Company expenses the costs of general advertising, promotion and marketing programs at the time the costs are incurred.
Share-Based Compensation
All share-based payments to employees, including grants of employee stock options and restricted stock, are recognized as compensation expense over the service period based on the fair value on the date of grant.
Computation of Net Earnings per Common Share
Net earnings per common share is presented for both basic earnings per common share (“Basic EPS”) and diluted earnings per common share (“Diluted EPS”). Earnings attributable to securities that are deemed to be participating securities are excluded from the calculation of Basic EPS using the two-class method. The Company has determined that the convertible promissory note issued to a shareholder as described in Note 12 and employee restricted stock grants, including awards granted under its long-term incentive plans, are participating securities. Basic EPS is based upon the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period, excluding unvested restricted stock and stock options held by employees. Diluted EPS is based upon the weighted average number of common and potential common shares outstanding during the period. Potential common shares result from the assumed exercise of outstanding stock options as well as unvested restricted stock, the proceeds of which are then assumed to have been used to repurchase outstanding common stock using the treasury stock method. For periods that the Company reports a net loss, all potential common shares are considered anti-dilutive and are excluded from calculations of Diluted EPS. For periods when the Company reports net earnings, potential common shares with exercise prices in excess of the Company’s average common stock fair value for the related period are considered anti-dilutive and are excluded from calculations of Diluted EPS. See Note 18 for further details.
Use of Estimates and Critical Accounting Policies
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles 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. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The Company’s most significant estimates relate to the valuation of property and equipment, income tax liabilities, goodwill and other intangible assets, which may be significantly affected by changes in the regulatory environment in which the Company operates, and to the aggregate costs for self-insured liability claims.
Reclassifications
Certain financial statement accounts have been reclassified in prior years to conform to current year presentation. There was no impact from these reclassifications on total assets, total liabilities, total net revenues, operating income or cash flows.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In July 2012, the FASB issued ASU No. 2012-02, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other: Testing Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets for Impairment. ASU 2012-02 is intended to simplify indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment testing by adding a qualitative review step to assess whether the required quantitative impairment analysis that exists today is necessary. Under the amended
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rule, a testing methodology similar to that which is performed for goodwill impairment testing will be acceptable for accessing a company's indefinite-lived intangible assets. The new standard will be effective for indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after September 15, 2012. The Company intends to adopt the standard during 2013.
In September 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-09, Compensation-Retirement Benefits-Multiemployer Plans. ASU 2011-09 is intended to enhance the disclosure requirements for employers participating in multiemployer pension plans to improve transparency and increase awareness of the commitments and risks involved with participation in multiemployer plans. The new accounting guidance requires employers participating in multiemployer plans to provide additional quantitative and qualitative disclosures to provide users with more detailed information regarding an employer’s involvement in multiemployer plans. The new standard became effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2011. The Company adopted this standard during 2011, however upon review of its level of participation in multiemployer plans, the impact of adopting this guidance had no impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements or related disclosures.
In September 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-08, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other: Testing Goodwill for Impairment. ASU 2011-08 is intended to simplify goodwill impairment testing by adding a qualitative review step to assess whether the required quantitative impairment analysis that exists today is necessary. Under the amended rule, a company will not be required to calculate the fair value of a business that contains recorded goodwill unless it concludes, based on the qualitative assessment, that it is more likely than not that the fair value of that business is less than its book value. If such a decline in fair value is deemed more likely than not to have occurred, then the quantitative goodwill impairment test that exists under current GAAP must be completed; otherwise, no further testing is required until the next annual test date (or sooner if conditions or events before that date raise concerns of potential impairment in the business). The amended goodwill impairment guidance does not affect the manner in which a company estimates fair value. The new standard became effective for goodwill impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2011. The Company adopted the standard during the year ended December 31, 2012, and there was no impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
In June 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-05, which updates the guidance in ASC Topic 220, Presentation of Comprehensive Income. ASU 2011-05 specifies that entities are required to present total comprehensive income either in a single, continuous statement of comprehensive income or in two separate, but consecutive, statements, and that entities must display adjustments for items reclassified from other comprehensive income to net income in both net income and other comprehensive income. The provisions for this pronouncement became effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2011. The Company adopted the standard for the year ended December 31, 2012. However, since the Company has no other components of comprehensive income, comprehensive income is the same as net earnings as presented in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income.
In May 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-04, Amendments to Achieve Common Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure Requirements in Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”) and International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS") which changes the wording used to describe the requirements in GAAP for measuring fair value and for disclosing information about fair value measurements in order to improve consistency in the application and description of fair value between GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards. ASU 2011-04 clarifies how the concepts of highest and best use and valuation premise in a fair value measurement are relevant only when measuring the fair value of nonfinancial assets and are not relevant when measuring the fair value of financial assets or liabilities. In addition, the guidance expanded the disclosures for the unobservable inputs for Level 3 fair value measurements, requiring quantitative information to be disclosed related to (1) the valuation processes used, (2) the sensitivity of the fair value measurement to changes in unobservable inputs and the interrelationships between those unobservable inputs, and (3) use of a nonfinancial asset in a way that differs from the asset’s highest and best use. The revised guidance became effective for interim and annual fiscal periods beginning after December 15, 2011. The Company adopted the standard for the year ended December 31, 2012, and there was no material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
NOTE 2-ACQUISITIONS AND NEW VENTURES
Riverwalk Casino Hotel Acquisition
On October 23, 2012, the Company completed its acquisition of Riverwalk Casino Hotel ("Riverwalk") in Vicksburg, Mississippi for cash consideration of approximately $145.6 million. The transaction includes the acquisition of a 25,000-square-foot casino, an 80-room hotel, a 5,600-square-foot event center and dining facilities on approximately 22 acres of land. The acquisition continues the Company's diversification and growth strategies to invest in assets with an expected yield on investment to enhance shareholder value. The Company financed the acquisition with borrowings under its amended and restated credit facility.
During the year ended December 31, 2012, Riverwalk recognized revenues of $10.3 million and earnings from continuing operations of $2.0 million subsequent to its acquisition by the Company. The following table summarizes the fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, net of cash acquired of $9.4 million, at the date of the acquisition.
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The fair value of other intangible assets consists of the following (in thousands):
Depreciation of property and equipment acquired is calculated using the straight-line method over the estimated remaining useful lives of the related assets as follows: 3 to 5 years for computer hardware and software, 4 to 6 years for equipment, 4 to 6 years for furniture and fixtures, 40 years for buildings and 8 to 22 years for building improvements. Amortization of other intangible assets acquired is calculated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the related intangible asset. Intangible assets include customer relationships valued at $10.3 million with a life of 6 years. Slot gaming rights and tradename are determined to have indefinite lives and are not being amortized.
Goodwill of $32.8 million was recognized given the expected contribution of the Riverwalk acquisition to the Company's overall business strategy. The entire balance of goodwill has been allocated to the Gaming business segment. The Company expects to deduct goodwill for tax purposes.
Miami Valley Gaming & Racing Joint Venture
During March 2012, the Company announced an agreement to enter into a 50% joint venture with Delaware North Companies Gaming & Entertainment Inc. (“DNC”) to develop a new harness racetrack and video lottery terminal (“VLT”) gaming facility in Monroe, Ohio.
Through the joint venture agreement, the Company and DNC have formed a new company, MVG, which will manage both the Company’s and DNC’s interests in the development and operation of the racetrack and VLT gaming facility. The Company and DNC will contribute up to $80.0 million in capital contributions to MVG. On December 21, 2012, MVG completed the purchase of the harness racing licenses and certain assets held by Lebanon Trotting Club Inc. and Miami Valley Trotting Inc. for total consideration of $60.0 million, of which $10.0 million was funded at closing with the remainder to be funded through a $50.0 million note payable over a six year term effective upon the commencement of gaming operations. In addition, there is a potential contingent consideration payment of $10.0 million based on the financial performance of the facility during the seven year period after gaming operations commence.
Construction began in December 2012 on the new gaming and racing facility in Monroe, Ohio. The new facility is expected to open during the first quarter of 2014, and will include a 5/8-mile harness racing track and a 186,000-square-foot gaming facility, featuring up to 2,500 VLTs on the 120-acre site. MVG will invest approximately $215.0 million in the new facility, including the $50.0 million license fee payable to the Ohio Lottery Commission. During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company funded $19.9 million in initial capital contributions to the joint venture.
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Bluff Media Acquisition
During February 2012, the Company completed the acquisition of the assets of Bluff, a multimedia poker content brand and publishing company. Bluff’s assets include the poker periodical, BLUFF Magazine; BLUFF Magazine’s online counterpart, BluffMagazine.com; ThePokerDB, a comprehensive online database and resource that tracks and ranks the performance of poker players and tournaments; and various other news and content forums. Bluff also publishes Fight! Magazine, a premier mixed martial arts magazine and its online counterpart, FightMagazine.com. In addition to the Company’s intention to further expand and build upon Bluff’s current content and business model, the Company believes this acquisition potentially provides it with new business avenues to pursue in the event there is a liberalization of state or federal laws with respect to Internet poker in the United States.
The Company completed its acquisition of Bluff for cash consideration of $6.7 million and contingent consideration of $2.5 million based on the probability of the enactment of federal or state enabling legislation which permits Internet poker gaming during the five year period after acquisition. The contingent consideration was estimated at $2.3 million. Any changes in the fair value of contingent consideration subsequent to the acquisition date will be recognized in earnings in the period the estimated fair value changes. Since the transaction did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements, additional disclosure was not deemed necessary. See Note 16 for further discussion of the fair value measurement.
Pro Forma
The following table illustrates the effect on net revenues, earnings from continuing operations and earnings from continuing operations per common share as if the Company had acquired Riverwalk as of the beginning of 2011. The pro forma results have been prepared for comparative purposes only and do not purport to be indicative of the results of operations that would have occurred had the merger with Riverwalk been consummated at the beginning of 2011.
Pro forma results exclude the effect of the acquisition of Bluff, which did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
NOTE 3-DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
Hoosier Park Consideration
In accordance with the Company’s sale of its ownership interest in Hoosier Park to Centaur Racing, LLC (“Centaur”) during 2007, the Company received a promissory note (the “Note”) in the amount of $4.0 million plus interest. The Partnership Interest Purchase Agreement documenting such sale to Centaur also included a contingent consideration provision whereby the Company was entitled to payments of up to $15 million on the date which is eighteen months after the date that slot machines are operational at Hoosier Park. During June 2008, Hoosier Park commenced its slot operations, fulfilling the terms of the contingency provision. However, due to uncertainties regarding collectability, the Company did not recognize the contingent consideration at the date of sale.
On October 1, 2011, the Company received $5.1 million in repayment of the amount owed to the Company pursuant to the Note. In addition, the Company also received $3.4 million as the final settlement of the contingent consideration provision of the Partnership Interest Purchase Agreement, which was recognized as a gain in discontinued operations during the year ended December 31, 2011.
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Release of Hollywood Park Retirement Plan Liabilities
On September 23, 2005, Churchill Downs California Company (“CDCC”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, completed the disposition of the Hollywood Park Racetrack horseracing facility and the Hollywood Park Casino facility located in Inglewood, California (“Hollywood Park”) to Hollywood Park Land Company, LLC (the “Purchaser”) pursuant to the Asset Purchase Agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) dated July 6, 2005. In connection with the sale of the assets, the Company transferred its obligations as a member in various noncontributory defined benefit multi-employer retirement plans, which are administered primarily by unions, to the Purchaser. Under the terms of an indemnity agreement included in the Purchase Agreement, in the event the Purchaser withdraws in a complete or partial withdrawal from any of the multi-employer retirement plans due to a cessation of the Hollywood Park Racetrack business on or before the last day of the fifth plan year beginning immediately after the close of the sale of the assets, the Company agreed to indemnify and hold the Purchaser harmless from and against any withdrawal liability incurred by the Purchaser in connection with such complete or partial withdrawal, provided that the aggregate amount of such withdrawal liability shall not exceed the amount of the withdrawal liability that would have been incurred by the Company if the Company had completely withdrawn from the applicable plans on the date of the closing of the sale of the assets.
During the year ended December 31, 2010, the Company recognized a gain on sale of $4.4 million upon the expiration of the indemnity agreement described in the previous paragraph. During the year ended December 31, 2011, we recorded an additional gain of $0.4 million from the expiration of the final indemnity associated with the Hollywood Park sale.
Dissolution of Churchill Downs Entertainment Group ("CDE")
During the year ended December 31, 2010, the Company ceased operations of CDE, an entity created to conceive and produce large-scale entertainment events. The decision was made to dissolve the group because of the belief that achieving financial success conducting large-scale entertainment events was very difficult in the current economy. The loss from operations before income tax benefit for CDE for the year ended December 31, 2010 was $9.1 million which included $0.8 million of severance and other benefits costs related to the dissolution of the entity.
Financial Information
CDE, Hollywood Park, Ellis Park and Hoosier Park have been accounted for as discontinued operations. Accordingly, the results of operations of the dissolved and sold businesses for all periods presented and the gains (losses) on sold businesses have been classified as discontinued operations, net of income taxes, in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. Set forth below is a summary of the results of operations of discontinued businesses for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 (in thousands):
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NOTE 4-NATURAL DISASTERS
Kentucky Hailstorm
On April 28, 2012, a hailstorm caused damage to portions of Louisville, Kentucky including Churchill Downs Racetrack ("Churchill Downs") and its separate training facility known as Trackside Louisville. Both locations sustained damage to their stable areas as well as damages to administrative offices and several other structures. The Company carries property and casualty insurance, subject to a $0.5 million deductible. As of December 31, 2012, the Company has recorded a reduction of property and equipment of $0.6 million. The Company is currently working with its insurance carriers to finalize its claim and received $1.1 million during the year ended December 31, 2012. The Company recognized insurance recoveries, net of losses of $0.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2012. The Company received an additional $0.4 million from its insurance carriers during 2013, and will recognize insurances recoveries, net of losses of $0.4 million as a component of operating income during the three months ended March 31, 2013.
Mississippi River Flooding
As a result of the Mississippi River flooding during 2011, the Company temporarily ceased operations at Harlow’s Casino Resort & Spa (“Harlow’s”) on May 6, 2011, and the Board of Mississippi Levee Commissioners ordered the closure of the Mainline Mississippi River Levee on May 7, 2011. On May 12, 2011, the property sustained damage to its 2,600-seat entertainment center and a portion of its dining facilities. On June 1, 2011, Harlow’s resumed casino operations with temporary dining facilities. During December 2012 and January 2013, the Company completed the renovation and improvement projects, which included a new buffet area, steakhouse, business center, spa facility, fitness center, pool and a multi-purpose event center.
The Company carries flood, property and casualty insurance as well as business interruption insurance subject to a $1.3 million deductible for damages. As of December 31, 2012, the Company has recorded a reduction of property and equipment of $8.5 million and incurred $2.0 million in repair expenditures. During the year ended December 31, 2011, the Company received $3.5 million from its insurance carriers in partial settlement of its claim. This amount has been included as insurance recoveries, summarized below, for the year ended December 31, 2012. In addition, the Company finalized its claim with its insurance carriers and received $12.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2012. The Company recognized insurance recoveries, net of losses, of $5.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2012. The insurance claims for this event have been finalized with the Company's insurance carriers, and it does not expect to receive additional funds or recognize additional income from the claim.
Mississippi Wind Damage
On February 24, 2011, severe storms caused damage to portions of Mississippi, including Greenville, Mississippi, the location of Harlow’s. The Harlow’s property sustained damage to a portion of the hotel, including its roof, furniture and fixtures in approximately 61 hotel rooms and fixtures in other areas of the hotel. The hotel was closed to customers for renovations following the storm damage and reopened during June 2011. The Company carries property and casualty insurance as well as business interruption insurance subject to a $0.1 million deductible for damages. As of December 31, 2012, the Company has recorded a reduction of property and equipment of $1.4 million and incurred $0.4 million in repair expenditures. The Company filed a preliminary claim with its insurance carriers for $1.0 million in damages, which it received during the second quarter of 2011. Approximately $0.4 million of insurance recoveries received were recorded as a reduction of selling, general and administrative expenses against losses related to the interruption of business caused by the wind damage during the year ended December 31, 2011. The Company received an additional $3.4 million from its insurance carriers during the year ended December 31, 2012. The Company recognized insurance recoveries, net of losses, of $1.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2012. The insurance claims for this event have been finalized with the Company's insurance carriers, and it does not expect to receive additional funds or recognize additional income from the claim.
Financial Information
The casualty losses and related insurance proceeds have been included as components of operating income in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. Set forth below is a summary of the impact of the natural disasters on the results of operations of the Company for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively, (in thousands):
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NOTE 5-ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE
The Company's accounts receivable at December 31, 2012 and 2011 is comprised of the following (in thousands):
During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company received insurance proceeds of $7.8 million related to natural disasters at Harlow's which were included in other receivables at December 31, 2011. See Note 4 for a discussion of natural disasters.
During each of the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company recognized $0.9 million of bad debt expense in its Online Business segment associated with customer wagering on TwinSpires.com.
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NOTE 6-PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Property and equipment is comprised of the following (in thousands):
Depreciation expense was approximately $44.4 million, $43.3 million and $36.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively, and is classified in operating expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income.
During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company began an assessment of potential alternative uses to its Trackside training facility at Churchill Downs. As such, the Company reviewed the useful lives of assets at this facility and commenced accelerated depreciation on certain of its long-term assets, resulting in additional depreciation expense of $0.9 million during the year ended December 31, 2012 related to this facility. The Company has determined that no impairment has occurred for these assets as of December 31, 2012.
NOTE 7-GOODWILL
Goodwill of the Company at December 31, 2012 and 2011 is comprised of the following (in thousands):
During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company reclassified goodwill between Other Investments and Racing Operations related to CDSP, one of its other investments, which was merged into Racing Operations during 2012. In addition, the Company recorded goodwill of $32.8 million and $3.9 million related to the Riverwalk and Bluff acquisitions, respectively.
During the year ended December 31, 2011, the Company reduced goodwill by $0.8 million related to the resolution of the working capital calculation with its Harlow’s acquisition and the adjustment of certain deferred income tax assets and liabilities associated with its Harlow’s and Youbet acquisitions.
The Company performed its annual goodwill impairment analysis for the year ended December 31, 2012 in accordance with ASU No. 2011-08, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other: Testing Goodwill for Impairment. This analysis included an assessment of qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting units is less than their carrying amounts. The impairment analysis included an assessment of certain qualitative factors including but not limited to macroeconomic, industry and market conditions; cost factors that have a negative effect on earnings; overall financial performance; the movement of the Company's share price; and other relevant entity and reporting unit specific events. This assessment included the determination of the likely effect of each factor on the fair value of each reporting unit. Although the Company believes the factors considered in the impairment analysis are reasonable, significant changes in any of the assumptions could produce a significantly different result. Based on the annual goodwill impairment analysis for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company concluded that goodwill had not been impaired. There was no impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements as a result of adopting the standard.
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NOTE 8-OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS
The Company’s other intangible assets are comprised of the following (in thousands):
Amortization expense for definite-lived intangible assets was approximately $11.2 million, $11.9 million and $9.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively, and is classified in operating expenses. The Company submitted payments of $2.3 million for each of the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 respectively, for annual license fees for Calder Casino. Payments are being amortized to expense over the annual license period.
Indefinite-lived intangible assets consist primarily of state gaming licenses in Mississippi and Florida, rights to participate in the Horse Racing Equity Fund and trademarks.
During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company recorded other definite-lived intangible assets of $10.3 million and indefinite-lived intangible assets of $32.8 million related to the Riverwalk acquisition. In addition, the Company recorded other definite-lived intangible assets of $0.3 million and indefinite-lived intangible assets of $4.8 million related to the Bluff acquisition.
Future estimated amortization expense does not include additional payments of $2.3 million in 2013 and in each year thereafter for the ongoing amortization of future expected annual Florida slots gaming license fees not yet incurred or paid. Future estimated aggregate amortization expense on existing definite-lived intangible assets for each of the next five fiscal years is as follows (in thousands):
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NOTE 9-INCOME TAXES
Components of the provision for income taxes are as follows (in thousands):
The Company’s income tax expense is different from the amount computed by applying the federal statutory income tax rate to income before taxes as follows (in thousands):
During 2003, the Company entered into a Tax Increment Financing (“TIF”) Agreement with the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Pursuant to this agreement, the Company is entitled to receive reimbursement for 80% of the increase in Kentucky income and sales tax resulting from its 2005 renovation of the Churchill facility. During 2011, the Company resolved uncertainties with the Commonwealth of Kentucky related to the computation of the tax increase and the Company recognized a $3.1 million reduction of its operating expenses related to the years 2005 through 2011. In addition, the Company recognized a $1.2 million reduction in its income tax expense, net of federal taxes, related to the years 2005 through 2011. During 2012, the Company recognized an additional $0.7 million reduction to its operating expenses and $0.5 million reduction to its income tax expense, net of federal taxes, from the Commonwealth of Kentucky. As of December 31, 2012, the Company has received $3.1 million of combined benefits and has recorded a sales tax receivable of $1.6 million and an income tax receivable of $1.0 million related to the reimbursement.
For the year ended December 31, 2011, the Company received a refund of $8.5 million related to the overpayment of its 2010 federal income taxes and a refund of $1.9 million related to an amended prior year federal income tax return that served to adjust state lobbying expense deductions.
During 2010, the Company identified adjustments to permanent tax differences related to years prior to January 1, 2008. As a result, the Company increased income taxes receivable and reduced income tax expense by $1.9 million during 2010. The adjustment relates to incorrectly treating deductible, local lobbying expenses incurred during 2005 and 2007 as non-deductible. These adjustments were recorded during the year ended December 31, 2010, as the corrections were deemed immaterial to both the results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2010, and all prior periods affected.
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During 2005 and 2006, the Company received approximately $22.9 million of proceeds related to the sale of personal seal licenses ("PSLs") sold in connection with the renovation of Churchill Downs. The PSLs that were sold included those with terms of 30 years and 5 years and provided the purchaser the right to purchase tickets to the Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Oaks and Breeders’ Cup races each year during the term of the license. Accordingly, for tax purposes, the Company deferred the income for the PSLs over the respective terms of the licenses.
During 2009, the Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS”) proposed that the income related to the sale of the PSLs is taxable during the period the proceeds are received by the Company (the “Proposed Audit Adjustment”). As a result, the Proposed Audit Adjustment serves to increase the amount of income taxes due for each of the tax years 2005 and 2006. On April 14, 2010, the Company defended its position of deferring income related to the sale of PSLs using a fast track mediation process offered by the IRS. During the fast track mediation process, the Company agreed to change its method of accounting for proceeds related to the sale of PSLs to the deferral method provided for in Revenue Procedure 2004-34, effective for the taxable year ended December 31, 2007. As a result, the taxable income for each of the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2008 increased by $19.1 million and $0.4 million, respectively. In accordance with the settlement entered into during the fast track mediation process, the Company recognized an income tax benefit from continuing operations of $0.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2010, reflecting a reduction of interest expense previously estimated, partially offset by higher income tax due than previously estimated.
Components of the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows (in thousands):
As of December 31, 2012, the Company had federal net operating losses of $16.2 million, which were acquired in conjunction with the acquisition of Youbet.com. The utilization of these losses is limited on an annual basis pursuant to IRC § 382. However, the Company believes that it will be able to fully utilize all of these losses. In addition, the Company has $4.3 million of state net operating losses; $2.2 million of this loss carryforward was acquired in conjunction with the acquisition of Youbet.com. These losses may be subject to annual limitations similar to IRC § 382. The Company has recorded a valuation allowance of $1.0 million against the state net operating losses due to the fact that it is unlikely that it will generate income in certain states, which is necessary to utilize the assets.
The changes in the valuation allowance for deferred tax assets for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 are as follows (in thousands):
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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
As of December 31, 2012, the Company had approximately $8.6 million of total gross unrecognized tax benefits, excluding interest. If these benefits were recognized, there would be a $0.9 million effect to the annual effective tax rate. The uncertain tax positions include $7.2 million gross tax benefit resulting from the taxation on the Horse Racing Equity Trust Fund ("HRE Trust Fund") proceeds recognized by the Company during 2011 as further described in Note 17. The tax expense associated with these proceeds was recognized during 2011. The Company anticipates a decrease in its unrecognized tax positions of approximately $8.0 million during the next twelve months. The Company currently has a deposit on account that would cover a significant portion of this liability in the event that the unrecognized tax positions were not sustained. This anticipated decrease is primarily due to the settlements under audit and the expiration of statutes of limitations.
During October 2012, the Company funded a $2.9 million income tax payment to the State of Illinois related to a dispute over state income tax apportionment methodology which has been recorded as an other asset as of December 31, 2012. The Company filed its state income tax returns related to the years 2002 through 2005 following the methodology prescribed by Illinois statute, however the State of Illinois has taken a contrary tax position. The Company filed a formal protest with the State of Illinois during the fourth quarter of 2012. The Company does not expect this issue to have a material adverse effect on its business, financial condition or results of operations. See Note 17 for further discussion of this matter.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows (in thousands):
The Company recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense and penalties in selling, general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. The Company accrued approximately $0.2 million of interest for each of the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011.
NOTE 10-SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
On March 13, 2008, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a shareholder rights plan, which granted each shareholder the right, in certain circumstances, to purchase a fraction of a share of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock at the rate of one right for each share of the Company’s common stock. If a person or group, together with its affiliates and associates, become an acquiring person, defined as the beneficial owner of 15% or more of the Company’s common stock, each holder of a right (other than the person or group who has become an acquiring person) will have the right to receive, upon exercise, shares of the Company’s common stock having a value equal to two times the exercise price of the right. Certain persons and transactions are exempted from the definition of acquiring person. In the event that, at any time following the date such person or group becomes an acquiring person, (i) the Company engages in a merger or other business combination transaction in which the Company is not the surviving corporation (other than with an entity that acquired the shares pursuant to an offer for all outstanding shares of common stock that a majority of the independent directors determines to be fair and not inadequate and to otherwise be in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders, after receiving advice from one or more investment banking firms (a “Qualifying Offer”) ), (ii) the Company engages in a merger or other business combination transaction (other than with an entity that acquired the shares pursuant to a Qualifying Offer) in which the Company is the surviving corporation and the common stock of the Company is changed or exchanged, or (iii) 50% or more of the Company’s assets, cash flow or earnings power is sold or transferred, each holder of a right (other than the person or group who has become an acquiring person) shall thereafter have the right to receive, upon exercise, common stock of the surviving entity having a value equal to two times the exercise price of the right. At any time after a person or group becomes an acquiring person, and prior to the acquisition by such person or group of fifty percent (50)% or more of the
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outstanding common stock, the Board may exchange the rights (other than rights owned by such acquiring person), in whole or in part, for common stock at an exchange ratio of one share of common stock, or one one-thousandth of a share of Preferred Stock (or of a share of a class or series of the Company’s preferred stock having equivalent rights, preferences and privileges), per right (subject to adjustment).
NOTE 11-EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
The Company has a profit-sharing plan that covers all employees, not otherwise participating in an associated profit-sharing plan, with three months or more of service. The Company will match contributions made by the employee up to 3% of the employee’s annual compensation and will also match, at 50%, contributions made by the employee up to an additional 2% of compensation with certain limits. The Company may also contribute a discretionary amount determined annually by the Board of Directors as well as a year-end discretionary match not to exceed 4% of compensation. The Company’s cash contribution to the plan for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 was approximately $1.8 million, $1.7 million and $1.3 million, respectively.
The Company is a member of a noncontributory defined benefit multi-employer retirement plan for all members of the Pari-mutuel Clerk’s Union of Kentucky and several other collectively bargained retirement plans, which are administered by unions. Cash contributions are made in accordance with negotiated labor contracts. Retirement plan expense for each of the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 was approximately $0.6 million, $0.6 million and $0.5 million, respectively. The Company’s policy is to fund this expense as accrued. The Company currently estimates that future contributions to these plans will not increase significantly from prior years.
The Company provides eligible executives and directors of the Company an opportunity to defer to a future date the receipt of base and bonus compensation for services as well as director’s fees through a deferred compensation plan. The Company’s matching contribution on base compensation deferrals equals the matching contribution of the Company’s profit-sharing plan with certain limits. The Company’s cash contribution to the plan amounts to $0.1 million for each of the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.
NOTE 12-TOTAL DEBT
The following table presents our total debt outstanding at December 31, 2012 and 2011 (in thousands):
On November 1, 2010, the Company entered into Amendment No. 1 to the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Credit Facility”), which amended certain provisions of the Credit Facility and provided for the exercise of the accordion feature whereby the maximum aggregate commitment was increased from $275 million to $375 million. Additionally, the Credit Facility reduced the pricing schedule for outstanding borrowings by 37.5 basis points and commitment fees by 5 basis points across all leverage pricing levels. The guarantors under the Credit Facility continue to be a majority of the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiaries. The Company incurred loan origination costs of approximately $0.5 million in connection with the Credit Facility, which were capitalized and amortized as interest expense over the remaining term of the Credit Facility. The Credit Facility terminates on December 22, 2013. During 2013, we expect to enter into a new, long-term revolving credit facility which we anticipate will provide sufficient capital resources and liquidity to satisfy our operating needs for the next twelve months.
Generally, borrowings made pursuant to the Credit Facility will bear interest at a LIBOR-based rate per annum plus an applicable percentage ranging from 1.625% to 3.125% depending on certain of the Company’s financial ratios. In addition, under the Credit Facility, we agreed to pay a commitment fee at rates that range from 0.25% to 0.45% of the available aggregate commitment, depending on the Company’s leverage ratio. The weighted average interest rate on outstanding borrowings at December 31, 2012 and 2011 was 1.87% and 2.19%, respectively.
Churchill Downs Incorporated
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
The Credit Facility contains customary affirmative and negative covenants for credit facilities of this type, including limitations on the Company and its subsidiaries with respect to indebtedness, restricted payments, liens, investments, mergers and acquisitions, disposition of assets, sale-leaseback transactions, and transactions with affiliates. The covenants permit the Company to use proceeds of the credit extended under the Credit Facility for general corporate purposes and acquisition needs. The Credit Facility also contains financial covenants that require the Company (i) to maintain an interest coverage ratio (i.e., consolidated EBITDA to consolidated interest expense) that is greater than 3.5 to 1.0; (ii) not to permit the leverage ratio (i.e., consolidated funded indebtedness to consolidated EBITDA) to be greater than 3.25 to 1.0; and (iii) to maintain consolidated net worth (with certain exceptions) of not less than the sum of (x) $350,000,000, (y) 50% of consolidated net income earned in each fiscal year beginning with the Company’s fiscal year ended December 31, 2009 and (z) 100% of the net proceeds of any future debt and equity offerings. Substantially all of the Company’s assets continue to be pledged as collateral under the Credit Facility. During the year ended December 31, 2012, there were no material changes in our commitments to make future payments or in our contractual obligations. As of December 31, 2012, we were in compliance with the debt covenants of the Credit Facility. As of December 31, 2012, we had $159 million of borrowing capacity under the Credit Facility.
During 2004, the Company acquired 452,603 shares of its common stock from a shareholder in exchange for a convertible promissory note in the principal amount of $16.7 million which could be immediately convertible at any time at the option of the shareholder into shares of the Company’s common stock. During the year ended December 31, 2011, the shareholder exercised his conversion right, and the Company’s convertible note payable with a related party was paid through the issuance of 452,603 shares of the Company’s common stock. The Company recognized a gain on conversion of $2.7 million in miscellaneous other income and interest expense of $1.4 million as a result of the conversion of the note payable and the elimination of the short forward contract liability and long put option asset.
The Company recorded gains related to the long put option and the short call option in the amount of $0.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2010.
Future aggregate maturities of total debt are as follows (in thousands):
NOTE 13-OPERATING LEASES
The Company has one operating lease agreement for an Arlington OTB, which expires in 2013. Arlington operates an additional seven OTBs within existing, non-owned Illinois restaurants under licensing agreements with varying payment terms, including payment contingent on handle. The Company has ten operating lease agreements for Fair Grounds OTBs, which expire in various years from 2013 through 2021. Finally, the Company has an operating lease agreement for its corporate offices which expires in 2023.
Future minimum operating lease payments are as follows, not including the variable portion of contingent leases and Arlington’s contingent licensing agreements (in thousands):
Churchill Downs Incorporated
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
The Company also leases totalizator equipment, audio/visual equipment and operates certain facilities that are partially contingent on handle, bandwidth usage or race days. Total annual rent expense for contingent lease payments, including totalizator equipment, audio/visual equipment, gaming equipment, land and facilities, was approximately $3.6 million, $2.5 million and $2.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The Company’s total rent expense for all operating leases, including the contingent lease payments, was approximately $18.4 million, $19.9 million and $19.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The reduction in total rent expense during 2012 reflects a migration in the Company's Racing Operations from totalizator services performed by a third-party to services provided by United Tote.
NOTE 14-LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLAN
During 2008, the Board of Directors approved the Terms and Conditions of Performance Share Awards Issued Pursuant to the Churchill Downs Incorporated 2007 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan (the “Company LTIP”) as well as the Terms and Conditions of Performance Share Awards Issued Pursuant to the Churchill Downs Incorporated 2007 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan for Employees of TwinSpires (the “TwinSpires LTIP”). The objective of the Company LTIP and the TwinSpires LTIP is to support the entrepreneurial mindset desired by management by providing an opportunity to earn significant equity in the Company for achieving significant performance targets.
During the year ended December 31, 2009, the Board of Directors terminated the TwinSpires LTIP. In accordance with this termination, the participants of the TwinSpires LTIP were granted participation in the Company LTIP upon execution of a waiver and award agreement by each such TwinSpires LTIP participant that included a waiver of any rights or benefits due such participant under the TwinSpires LTIP. All TwinSpires LTIP participants executed such waiver and award agreements. These participants have the opportunity to earn performance share awards under the Company LTIP substantially equal to the total value of such awards as defined under the TwinSpires LTIP.
In accordance with the Company LTIP, participants earn performance share awards over a five year period (2008 through 2012) that are paid in either cash or stock of the Company, at the discretion of the Company, based on performance targets achieved by the Company as well as the participant. Performance targets of the Company are predetermined Company EBITDA (defined as earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) goals for each year during the term of the Company LTIP. Performance targets of the participants are defined as substantial contributions to the performance and strategic improvement of the Company. During the first quarter subsequent to each plan year during the term of the Company LTIP, performance share awards denominated in either cash or stock are awarded to participants based on assessment of the achievement of performance targets. Such awards have varying service conditions and vest on a quarterly basis. The Company awarded the final performance share awards under the Company LTIP related to the 2011 and 2012 LTIP years during the three months ended March 31, 2013. The Company expects to adopt similar forms of incentive compensation for named executive officers during 2013. The proposed new incentives, which are expected to be awarded during 2013, will consist of performance and service-based restricted stock grants, which will vest upon the achievement of certain triggering events.
During the year ended December 31, 2012, the performance targets of the Company LTIP were achieved for the 2011 and 2012 plan years. Compensation expense of $6.4 million was recognized for the 2011 and 2012 plan awards, which were awarded during the three months ended March 31, 2013 .
During the year ended December 31, 2011, the performance targets of the Company LTIP were achieved for the 2010 plan year. Compensation expense of $4.2 million was recognized for the 2010 plan award, which was awarded through a restricted stock grant made during the year ended December 31, 2012.
During the year ended December 31, 2010, the performance target of the Company LTIP was achieved for the 2009 plan year. Compensation expense of $1.9 million was recognized for the 2009 plan award, which was awarded through a restricted stock grant made during the year ended December 31, 2011.
NOTE 15-SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION PLANS
As of December 31, 2012, the Company has share-based employee compensation plans as described below. The total compensation expense, which includes compensation expense related to restricted share awards, restricted stock unit awards, stock option awards, granted LTIP awards and stock options associated with an employee stock purchase plan, was $7.6 million, $5.5 million and $4.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.
During 2010, the Company identified adjustments to restricted stock compensation expense related to years prior to January 1, 2010. As a result, the Company increased restricted stock compensation expense by $1.5 million during 2010. The increase in compensation expense should have been recorded during prior periods and relates primarily to incorrect valuation assumptions used for 90,000 restricted shares issued under a previous employment agreement with Robert L. Evans, the Company’s Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer. These adjustments were recorded during the year ended December 31, 2010, and the corrections were deemed immaterial to both the results of operations for 2010, and all prior periods affected.
Churchill Downs Incorporated
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Employee Stock Options
The Company sponsors the Churchill Downs Incorporated 1997 Stock Option Plan (the “97 Plan”) and the Churchill Downs Incorporated 2007 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan (the “07 Incentive Plan”). In addition, the Company may, from time to time, grant stock option awards to individuals outside of its share-based compensation plans. These share-based incentive compensation plans are described below.
On March 13, 2003, the Board of Directors suspended the 97 Plan. Awards issued under the 97 Plan prior to its suspension were unaffected by such suspension.
The 97 Plan and the 07 Incentive Plan provide that the exercise price of any incentive stock option may not be less than the fair market value of the common stock on the date of grant. Outstanding stock options under the 97 Plan have contractual terms of ten years and generally vest three years from the date of grant. Outstanding stock options under the 07 Incentive Plan have contractual terms of ten years and generally vest ratably on each anniversary of the grant date over a three year period.
Activity for stock options granted by the Company during the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 is presented below (in thousands, except per common share data):
During the year ended December 31, 2010, the Company entered into an amended and restated employment agreement with Robert L. Evans, the Company’s Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Evans received a stock option, vesting quarterly over approximately three years to purchase an aggregate of 180,000 shares of the Company’s common stock, with an exercise price equal to the fair market value of a share of the Company’s common stock on September, 27, 2010, the date on which the award was granted. This stock option has a contractual term of six years expiring on November 14, 2016.
Under Mr. Evans’ previous employment agreement, Mr. Evans received a stock option, vesting quarterly over three years, to purchase an aggregate of 130,000 shares of the Company’s common stock, with an exercise price equal to the fair market value of a share of the Company’s common stock on July 18, 2006. During 2012, Mr. Evans exercised options for 130,000 shares of the Company's common stock which were granted at $36.16, for common stock at stock prices ranging from $57.36 to $60.05.
During the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, no stock options were granted. The weighted fair market value of stock options granted during 2010 was $13.65 per share. In determining the estimated fair value of the Company’s stock options as of the date of grant, the Company used the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following assumptions:
Churchill Downs Incorporated
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
The Black-Scholes option pricing model was developed for use in estimating the fair value of traded options which have no vesting restrictions and are fully transferable. In addition, option valuation models require the input of highly subjective assumptions, including the expected stock price volatility. Because the Company’s employee stock options have characteristics significantly different from those of traded options and because changes in the subjective input assumptions can materially affect the fair value estimate, in the Company’s opinion, the existing models do not necessarily provide a reliable single measure of the fair value of the Company’s employee stock options.
The Company calculates the expected term for its stock options based on historical exercise behavior and bases the risk-free interest rate on a traded zero-coupon U.S. Treasury bond with a term substantially equal to the stock option’s expected term.
The volatility used to value stock options is based on historical volatility. The Company calculates historical volatility using a simple average calculation methodology based on daily price intervals as measured over the expected term of the stock option.
The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding and exercisable as of December 31, 2012 (in thousands, except contractual life and per share data):
(1)
Computed based upon the amount by which the fair market value of the Company’s common stock at December 31, 2012 of $66.45 per share exceeded the weighted average exercise price.
The total intrinsic value of stock options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 was $5.7 million, $0.1 million and $38 thousand, respectively. Cash received from stock option exercises totaled $3.4 million, $0.2 million and $0.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.
At December 31, 2011, there were 251 thousand options exercisable with a weighted average exercise price of $37.05.
A summary of the status of the Company’s nonvested stock options as of December 31, 2012, and changes during the year ended December 31, 2012 follows:
As of December 31, 2012, there was $0.5 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested stock options. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.0 years. The total fair value of shares vested during the year ended December 31, 2012 was $0.9 million.
Restricted Shares and Restricted Stock Units
The Company sponsored the Churchill Downs Incorporated 2004 Restricted Stock Plan (the “04 Plan”). In addition, the Company, may, from time to time, grant restricted shares or restricted stock units to individuals outside of its share-based compensation plans.
On March 15, 2007, the Board of Directors replaced the 04 Plan with the 07 Incentive Plan. Awards issued under the 04 Plan prior to its termination were unaffected by such termination. The 07 Incentive Plan permits the award of restricted shares or restricted stock units to directors and key employees, including officers, of the Company and its subsidiaries who are from time to time responsible for the management, growth and protection of the business of the Company and its subsidiaries.
Restricted shares granted under the 04 Plan generally vest in full five years from the date of grant or upon retirement at or after
Churchill Downs Incorporated
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
age 60. Restricted shares granted under the 07 Incentive Plan generally vest in full three years from the date of grant or upon retirement at or after age 60. The fair value of restricted shares under both the 04 Plan and the 07 Incentive Plan is determined by the product of the number of shares granted and the grant date market price of the Company’s common stock, discounted to consider the fact that dividends are not paid on these shares.
During the year ended December 31, 2010, the Company entered into an amended and restated employment agreement with Robert L. Evans. Mr. Evans received (i) 45,000 restricted shares of the Company’s common stock, with vesting contingent upon the Company’s common stock reaching certain closing prices on NASDAQ for twenty consecutive trading days, and (ii) 81,250 restricted stock shares, vesting quarterly over 6.0 years. On January 20, 2012, 15,000 of Mr. Evans’ restricted shares, with vesting contingent upon the Company’s stock price, vested based on a closing stock price in excess of $50 per share for twenty consecutive trading days. On October 22, 2012, an additional 15,000 of Mr. Evans’ restricted shares, with vesting contingent upon the Company’s stock price, vested based on a closing stock price in excess of $60 per share for twenty consecutive trading days.
Under a previous employment agreement with Robert L. Evans, Mr. Evans received (i) 90,000 restricted shares of the Company’s common stock, with vesting contingent upon the Company’s common stock reaching certain closing prices on NASDAQ for twenty consecutive trading days, (ii) 65,000 restricted shares of the Company’s common stock, vesting quarterly over five years, and contingent upon the Company’s common stock reaching certain closing prices on NASDAQ for ten consecutive trading days and (iii) 65,000 restricted stock units representing shares of the Company’s common stock, vesting quarterly over five years, with Mr. Evans entitled to receive the shares underlying the units (along with a cash payment equal to accumulated dividend equivalents beginning with the lapse of forfeiture, plus interest at a 3% annual rate) six months after termination of employment. The restricted share awards were approved by the Company’s shareholders at its Annual Meeting of Shareholders held on June 28, 2007, the grant date of these awards. On January 29, 2013, 22,500 of Mr. Evans’ restricted shares, with vesting contingent upon the Company’s stock price, vested based on a closing stock price in excess of $65 per share for twenty consecutive trading days. On April 10, 2012, 22,500 of Mr. Evans’ restricted shares, with vesting contingent upon the Company’s stock price, vested based on a closing stock price in excess of $55 per share for twenty consecutive trading days.
Activity for the 04 Plan, the 07 Incentive Plan and awards made outside of share-based compensation plans for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 is presented below (in thousands, except per common share data):
As of December 31, 2012, there was $4.9 million of unrecognized share-based compensation expense related to nonvested restricted share and restricted stock unit awards that the Company expects to recognize over a weighted average period of 2.3 years.
As of December 31, 2012, employees of the Company held 60,000 restricted shares subject to performance-based vesting criteria (all of which are considered market-based restricted shares). In September 2010 and June 2007, 45,000 and 90,000 restricted performance-based shares were granted, respectively. The number of these shares that vest is based upon established market-based performance targets that will be assessed on an ongoing basis. The grant date fair value of these shares was $35.19 and $49.80, respectively, per share for a total value of $1.6 million and $4.5 million. The related expense is being recognized ratably over the implicit service period derived through the lattice-based valuation of the awards, which was deemed to be a weighted average period of 2.3 years from the grant date. Assumptions used in this valuation included an annual volatility factor of 40.2%
Churchill Downs Incorporated
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
and an annual dividend yield of 1.1%.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan, the Company is authorized to sell, pursuant to short-term stock options, shares of its common stock to its full-time (or part-time for at least 20 hours per week and at least five months per year) employees at a discount from the common stock’s fair market value. The Employee Stock Purchase Plan operates on the basis of recurring, consecutive one-year periods. Each period commences on August 1 and ends on the following July 31.
Each August 1, the Company offers eligible employees the opportunity to purchase common stock. Employees who elect to participate for each period have a designated percentage of their compensation withheld (after-tax) and applied to the purchase of shares of common stock on the last day of the period, July 31. The Employee Stock Purchase Plan allows withdrawals, terminations and reductions on the amounts being deducted. The purchase price for the common stock is 85% of the lesser of the fair market value of the common stock on (i) the first day of the period, or (ii) the last day of the period. No employee may purchase common stock under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan valued at more than $25 thousand for each calendar year.
Under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan, the Company sold approximately nineteen thousand shares of common stock to employees pursuant to options granted on August 1, 2011, and exercised on July 31, 2012. Because the plan year overlaps the Company’s fiscal year, the number of shares to be sold pursuant to options granted on August 1, 2012, can only be estimated because the 2012 plan year is not yet complete. The Company’s estimate of options granted in 2012 under the Plan is based on the number of shares sold to employees under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan for the 2011 plan year, adjusted to reflect the change in the number of employees participating in the Employee Stock Purchase Plan in 2012. The Company recognized compensation expense related to the Employee Stock Purchase Plan of $0.4 million, $0.3 million and $0.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.
NOTE 16-FAIR VALUE OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
The Company endeavors to utilize the best available information in measuring fair value. Financial assets and liabilities are classified based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The following table presents the Company's assets and liabilities measured at fair value at December 31, 2012 and 2011 (in thousands):
The Company's cash equivalents and restricted cash, which are held in interest-bearing accounts, qualify for Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy which includes unadjusted quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets. The Company's accrued liability for a contingent consideration recorded in conjunction with the Bluff acquisition was based on significant inputs not observed in the market and represents a Level 3 fair value measurement. The estimate for the acquisition date fair value of the contingent consideration used an income approach and was based on the probability of achieving enabling legislation which permits Internet poker gaming and the probability-weighted discounted cash flows. Any change in the fair value of the contingent consideration subsequent to the acquisition date will be recognized in the Company's Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. The Company currently has no other assets or liabilities subject to fair value measurement on a recurring basis.
The following methods and assumptions were used by the Company in estimating its fair value disclosures for financial instruments:
Cash Equivalents-The carrying amount reported in the balance sheet for cash equivalents approximates its fair value due to the short-term maturity of these instruments.
Long-Term Debt-The carrying amounts of the Company’s borrowings under its line of credit agreements and other long-term debt approximates fair value, based upon current interest rates. Long-Term Debt represents a Level 2 fair value measurement.
The following table presents the Company’s assets that were measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis (in thousands):
Churchill Downs Incorporated
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
During the year ended December 31, 2010, the Company recognized an impairment loss of $1.3 million associated with software owned by TwinSpires. The Company determined such software would not be utilized as a result of a reassessment of the use of certain technology in connection with its acquisition of Youbet.
During the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company did not measure any assets at fair value on a non-recurring basis.
NOTE 17-COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Legal Proceedings
The Company records an accrual for legal contingencies to the extent that it concludes that it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. Except as disclosed below, no estimate of the possible loss or range of loss in excess of amounts accrued, if any, can be made at this time regarding the matters specifically described below. We do not believe that the final outcome of these matters will have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Illinois Department of Revenue
In October of 2012, the Company filed a verified complaint for preliminary and permanent injunctive relief and for declaratory judgment (the “Complaint”) against the Illinois Department of Revenue (the “Department”). The Company's complaint was filed in response to Notices of Deficiency issued by the Department on March 18, 2010 and September 6, 2012. In response to said Notices of Deficiency, the Company, on October 4, 2012, issued a payment in protest in the amount of $2.9 million (the “Protest Payment”) under the State Officers and Employees Money Disposition Act and recorded this amount as an other asset at December 31, 2012. The Company subsequently filed its complaint in November alleging that the Department erroneously included handle, instead of the Company's commissions from handle, in the computation of the Company's sales factor (a computation of the Company's gross receipts from wagering within the State of Illinois) for determining the applicable tax owed. On October 30, 2012, the Company's Motion for Preliminary Injunctive Relief was granted, which prevents the Department from depositing any monies from the Protest Payment into the State of Illinois General Fund and from taking any further action against the Company until the Circuit Court takes final action on the Company's Complaint. If successful with its Complaint, the Company will be entitled to a full or partial refund of the Protest Payment from the Department. This matter remains pending before the Tax and Miscellaneous Remedies Section of the Circuit Court of Cook County.
Kentucky Downs
On September 5, 2012, Kentucky Downs Management, Inc. (“KDMI”) filed a petition for declaration of rights in Kentucky Circuit Court located in Simpson County, Kentucky styled Kentucky Downs Management Inc. v. Churchill Downs Incorporated (Civil Action No. 12-CI-330) (the “Simpson County Case”) requesting a declaration that the Company does not have the right to exercise its put right and require Kentucky Downs, LLC (“Kentucky Downs”) and/or Kentucky Downs Partners, LLC (“KDP”) to purchase the Company's ownership interest in Kentucky Downs. On September 18, 2012, the Company filed a complaint in Kentucky Circuit Court located in Jefferson County, Kentucky, styled Churchill Downs Incorporated v. Kentucky Downs, LLC; Kentucky Downs Partners, LLC; and Kentucky Downs Management Inc. (Civil Action No. 12-CI-04989) (the “Jefferson County Case”) claiming that Kentucky Downs and KDP had breached the operating agreement for Kentucky Downs and requesting a declaration that the Company had validly exercised its put right and a judgment compelling Kentucky Downs and/or KDP to purchase the Company's ownership interest in Kentucky Downs pursuant to the terms of the applicable operating agreement. On October 9, 2012, the Company filed a motion to dismiss the Simpson County Case and Kentucky Downs, KDP and KDMI filed a motion to dismiss the Jefferson County Case. A hearing for the motion to dismiss in the Simpson County Case occurred November 30, 2012. At that hearing the Company's motion to dismiss the Simpson County Case was denied. Subsequently, Kentucky Downs, KDMI and KDP's motion to dismiss the Jefferson County Case was granted on January 23, 2013, due to the Simpson County Circuit Court's assertion of jurisdiction over the dispute. The case will now move forward in the Simpson County Circuit Court.
Churchill Downs Incorporated
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Texas Pari-Mutuel Wagering
On September 21, 2012, the Company filed a lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas styled Churchill Downs Incorporated; Churchill Downs Technology Initiatives Company d/b/a TwinSpires.com v. Chuck Trout, in his official capacity as Executive Director of the Texas Racing Commission; Gary P. Aber, Susan Combs, Ronald F. Ederer, Gloria Hicks, Michael F. Martin, Allan Polunsky, Robert Schmidt, John T. Steen III, Vicki Smith Weinberg, in their official capacity as members of the Texas Racing Commission (Case No. 1:12-cv-00880-LY) challenging the constitutionality of a Texas law requiring residents of Texas that desire to wager on horseraces to wager in person at a Texas race track. In addition to its complaint, on September 21, 2012, the Company filed a motion for preliminary injunction seeking to enjoin the state from taking any action to enforce the law in question. In response, on October 9, 2012, counsel for the state assured both the Company and the court that the state would not enforce the law in question against the Company without prior notice, at which time the court could then consider the motion for preliminary injunction.
Horse Racing Equity Trust Fund
During 2006, the Illinois General Assembly enacted Public Act 94-804, which created the HRE Trust Fund. During November 2008, the Illinois General Assembly passed Public Act 95-1008 to extend Public Act 94-804 for a period of three years beginning December 12, 2008. The HRE Trust Fund was funded by a 3% “surcharge” on revenues of Illinois riverboat casinos that met a certain revenue threshold. The riverboat casinos paid all monies required under Public Acts 94-804 and 95-1008 into a special protest fund account which prevented the monies from being transferred to the HRE Trust Fund. The funds were moved to the HRE Trust Fund and distributed to the racetracks, including Arlington, in December 2009.
On June 12, 2009, the Illinois riverboat casinos filed a lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, Eastern Division, against former Governor Rod Blagojevich, Friends of Blagojevich and others, including Arlington (Empress Casino Joliet Corp. v. Blagojevich, 2009 CV 03585). While the riverboat casinos alleged violations of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (“RICO”) against certain of the defendants, Arlington was not named in the RICO count, but rather was named solely in a count requesting that the monies paid by the riverboat casinos pursuant to Public Acts 94-804 and 95-1008 be held in a constructive trust for the riverboat casinos’ benefit and ultimately returned to the casinos. Following several lower court rulings, on March 2, 2011, a three member panel of the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals reversed the trial court’s dismissal. We requested the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals to rehear the matter en banc, which hearing was held on May 10, 2011. On July 8, 2011, the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals issued a thirty-day stay of dissolution of the temporary restraining order ("TRO") to allow the casinos to request a further stay of dissolution of the TRO pending their petition for certiorari to the United States Supreme Court. On August 5, 2011, the United States Supreme Court denied an application by the Casinos to further stay the dissolution of the TRO. On August 9, 2011, the stay of dissolution expired and the TRO dissolved, which terminated the restrictions on the Company’s ability to access funds from the HRE Trust Fund held in the escrow account. Public Act 94-804 expired in May 2008 and Public Act 95-1008 expired on July 18, 2011, the date the tenth Illinois riverboat license became operational.
Arlington filed an administrative appeal in the Circuit Court of Cook County on August 18, 2009 (Arlington Park Racecourse LLC v. Illinois Racing Board, 09 CH 28774) challenging the IRB’s allocation of funds out of the HRE Trust Fund based upon handle generated by certain ineligible licensees, as contrary to the language of the statute. The Circuit Court affirmed the IRB’s decision on November 10, 2010, and Arlington appealed this ruling to the Illinois First District Court of Appeals. On April 23, 2012 the Court of Appeals ultimately affirmed the IRB’s decision and Arlington filed a petition for leave to appeal to the Illinois Supreme Court on May 25, 2012. On October 1, 2012, the Illinois Supreme Court denied Arlington's petition for leave to appeal. Hawthorne Racecourse filed a separate administrative appeal on June 11, 2010 (Hawthorne Racecourse, Inc. v. Illinois Racing Board et. al., Case No. 10 CH 24439) challenging the IRB’s decision not to credit Hawthorne with handle previously generated by an ineligible licensee for the purpose of calculating the allocation of the HRE Trust Fund monies and the IRB’s unwillingness to hold another meeting in 2010 to reconstrue the statutory language in Public Act 95-1008 with respect to distributions. On May 25, 2011, the Circuit Court rejected Hawthorne’s arguments and affirmed the IRB’s decisions, and Hawthorne appealed the Circuit Court’s decision. Arlington filed its response brief on May 30, 2012, and the IRB filed its response brief on June 30, 2012. Hawthorne filed its reply brief on July 27, 2012. Oral arguments on Hawthorne's appeal before the Illinois First District Court of Appeals were heard on November 1, 2012 and during November 2012, the First District Court of Appeals ruled against Hawthorne.
We received $45.4 million from the HRE Trust Fund, of which $26.1 million was designated for Arlington purses. We used the remaining $19.3 million of the proceeds to improve, market, and maintain or otherwise operate the Arlington racing facility in order to conduct live racing.
Balmoral, Maywood and Illinois Harness Horsemen’s Association
On February 14, 2011, Balmoral Racing Club, Inc., Maywood Park Trotting Association, Inc. and the Illinois Harness Horsemen's Association, Inc. filed a lawsuit styled Balmoral Racing Club, Inc., Maywood Park Trotting Association, Inc. and the Illinois Harness Horsemen's Association Inc. vs. Churchill Downs Incorporated, Churchill Downs Technology Initiatives Company d/b/
Churchill Downs Incorporated
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
a TwinSpires.com and Youbet.com, LLC (Case No. 11-CV-D1028) in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, Eastern Division. The plaintiffs allege that Youbet.com breached a co-branding agreement dated December 2007, as amended on December 21, 2007, and September 26, 2008 (the “Agreement”), which was entered into between certain Illinois racetracks and a predecessor of Youbet.com. The plaintiffs allege that the defendants breached the agreement by virtue of an unauthorized assignment of the Agreement to TwinSpires.com and further allege that Youbet.com and TwinSpires have misappropriated trade secrets in violation of the Illinois Trade Secrets Act. Finally, the plaintiffs allege that the Company and TwinSpires.com tortiously interfered with the Agreement by causing Youbet.com to breach the Agreement. The plaintiffs have alleged damages of at least $3.6 million, or alternatively, of at least $0.8 million. On April 1, 2011, the plaintiffs filed a motion for a preliminary injunction, seeking an order compelling the defendants to turn over all Illinois customer accounts and prohibiting TwinSpires.com from using that list of Illinois customer accounts. On April 18, 2011, the defendants filed an answer and a motion to dismiss certain counts of the plaintiffs' complaint, and Youbet.com asserted a counterclaim seeking certain declaratory relief relating to allegations that plaintiffs Maywood and Balmoral breached the Agreement in 2010, leading to its proper termination by Youbet.com on December 1, 2010. The preliminary injunction hearing took place on July 6, 2011, and, on July 21, 2011, the court denied the preliminary injunction. On March 9, 2012, the parties mediated the case without resolution. The parties filed motions of summary judgment in November and December 2012, respectively, and replies were filed in January 2013.
There are no other material pending legal proceedings.
Churchill Downs Incorporated
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
NOTE 18-EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE COMPUTATIONS
The following is a reconciliation of the numerator and denominator of the earnings per common share computations (in thousands, except per share data):
Options to purchase approximately 18 thousand shares and 112 thousand shares for each of the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 were not included in the computation of earnings per common share assuming dilution because the options’ exercise prices were greater than the average market price of the common shares.
NOTE 19-SEGMENT INFORMATION
The Company operates in the following four segments: (1) Racing Operations, which includes Churchill Downs Racetrack ("Churchill Downs"), Arlington International Race Course ("Arlington") and its ten OTBs, Calder Race Course ("Calder") and Fair Grounds Race Course ("Fairgrounds") and the pari-mutuel activity generated at its twelve OTBs; (2) Gaming, which includes
Churchill Downs Incorporated
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
video poker and gaming operations at Calder Casino, Fair Grounds Slots, Harlow’s, Riverwalk and Video Services, LLC (“VSI”); (3) Online Business, which includes TwinSpires, our Advance Deposit Wagering (“ADW”) business, Fair Grounds Account Wagering, Bloodstock Research Information Services, Velocity, a business focused on high wagering-volume international customers and Luckity, an ADW business that offers over 20 unique online games with outcomes based on and determined by pari-mutuel wagers on live horseraces, as well as the Company's equity investment in HRTV, LLC; and (4) Other Investments, which includes United Tote, MVG, Bluff and the Company's other minor investments. Eliminations include the elimination of intersegment transactions.
Certain financial statement accounts have been reclassified in prior years to conform to current year presentation. There was no impact from these reclassifications on total assets, total liabilities, total net revenues, operating income, EBITDA or cash flows.
The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in the “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” in Note 1. The table below presents information about reported segments for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 (in thousands):
Churchill Downs Incorporated
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
The table below presents information about equity in earnings (losses) of unconsolidated investments included in the Company's reported segments for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 (in thousands):
The tables below present total asset information about reported segments as of December 31, 2012 and 2011 and capital expenditures for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 (in thousands):
During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company incurred $3.7 million of capital expenditures for its corporate office relocation, which is included in Other Investments.
Churchill Downs Incorporated
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
NOTE 20-RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Directors and employees of the Company may from time to time own or have interests in horses racing at the Company’s racetracks.
All such races are conducted, as applicable, under the regulations of each state’s respective regulatory agency, and no director
receives any extra or special benefit with regard to having his or her horses selected to run in races or in connection with the actual
running of races. There is no material financial statement impact attributable to directors who may have interests in horses racing at our racetracks.
In its ordinary course of business, the Company may enter into transactions with certain of its officers and directors for the sale of personal seat licenses and suite accommodations at its racetracks, and tickets for its live racing events. The Company believes that each such transaction has been on terms no less favorable for the Company than could have been obtained in a transaction with a third party and no such person received any extra or special benefit in connection with such transactions.
See Note 12 for a discussion of a transaction with a shareholder during 2011.
Supplementary Financial Information - Results of Operations (Unaudited)
Summarized unaudited consolidated quarterly information for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 is provided below (in thousands, except per common share data):
Churchill Downs Incorporated
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 9.
ITEM 9.
CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None.
ITEM 9A.
ITEM 9A.
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K are certifications of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, which are required in accordance with Rule 13a-14 of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). This section includes information concerning the controls and controls evaluation referred to in the certifications.
(a)
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
The Company maintains disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that the Company files or submits to the Securities and Exchange Commission is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to the Company’s management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required financial disclosure.
As of the end of the period covered by this report, the Company carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s Disclosure Committee and management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(b). Based upon this evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2012.
(b)
Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act. Our 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. Our internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that:
(i)
Pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the Company;
(ii)
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
(iii)
Provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the Company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its 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.
Our management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012. In making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control-Integrated Framework.
We have excluded Riverwalk Casino and Hotel ("Riverwalk") from our assessment of internal controls over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012, because it was acquired by us in a business acquisition during 2012. Riverwalk is a wholly-owned subsidiary whose total assets were 13.4% and total revenues were 1.4% of the related consolidated financial statement amounts as of and for the year ended December 31, 2012.
Based on our assessment using those criteria, management has concluded that the Company maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012.
The effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012, has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report, which appears under Item 8.
(c)
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Management of the Company has evaluated, with the participation of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) of the Exchange Act) during the fourth quarter of 2012. There have not been any changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) of the Exchange Act) that occurred during the quarter ended December 31, 2012 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
ITEM 9B.
ITEM 9B.
OTHER INFORMATION
None.
PART III
ITEM 10.
ITEM 10.
DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
The information required herein is incorporated by reference from sections of the Company’s Proxy Statement titled “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance,” “Election of Directors,” “Executive Officers of the Company,” “Corporate Governance” and “Audit Committee,” which Proxy Statement will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to instruction G(3) of the General Instructions to Form 10-K.
The Company has adopted a Code of Ethics that applies to its Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and employees performing similar functions. This Code of Ethics is available on the Company’s corporate website, www.churchilldownsincorporated.com, under the “Investors” heading. A copy of this Code of Ethics is also available and will be sent to shareholders free of charge upon request to the Company’s Secretary.
ITEM 11.
ITEM 11.
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The information required herein is incorporated by reference from sections of the Company’s Proxy Statement titled “Election of Directors - Director Compensation for the year ended December 31, 2012,” “Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation,” “Corporate Governance,” “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions,” “Executive Compensation,” “Compensation Committee Report” and “Compensation Discussion and Analysis,” which Proxy Statement will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to instruction G(3) of the General Instructions to Form 10-K.
ITEM 12.
ITEM 12.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
The information required herein is incorporated by reference from the sections of the Company’s Proxy Statement titled “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management,” “Election of Directors,” “Executive Officers of the Company” and
“Equity Compensation Plan Information,” which Proxy Statement will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to instruction G(3) of the General Instructions to Form 10-K.
ITEM 13.
ITEM 13.
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE
The information required herein is incorporated by reference from the section of the Company’s Proxy Statement titled “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions” and “Corporate Governance,” which Proxy Statement will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to instruction G(3) of the General Instructions to Form 10-K.
ITEM 14.
ITEM 14.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES
The information required herein is incorporated by reference from the section of the Company’s Proxy Statement titled “Independent Public Accountants,” which Proxy Statement will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to instruction G(3) of the General Instructions to Form 10-K.
PART IV
ITEM 15.
ITEM 15.
EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE
Pages
(a)
(1)
Consolidated Financial Statements
The following financial statements of Churchill Downs Incorporated for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 are included in Part II, Item 8:
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Consolidated Balance Sheets
Consolidated Statements of Cve Income
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(2)
Schedule II-Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
All other schedules are omitted because they are not applicable, not significant or not required, or because the required information is included in the consolidated financial statements or notes thereto.
(3)
For the list of required exhibits, see exhibit index.
(b)
Exhibits
See exhibit index.
(c)
All financial statements and schedules except those items listed under Items 15(a)(1) and (2) above are omitted because they are not applicable or not required, or because the required information is included in the consolidated financial statements or notes thereto.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
Pursuant to the requirements 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.
CHURCHILL DOWNS INCORPORATED
SCHEDULE II-VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
EXHIBIT INDEX
* Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.