Goodwill impairment pushes Star to AU$178.1m net loss in FY22

Australian land operator Star Entertainment Group posted A$178.1 million (£103.9 million / €124 million / €129 million) in fiscal year 2022 despite experiencing a strong post-pandemic recovery. million USD).

Operator group revenues were broadly flat year-on-year, but net income of $57.9 million last year despite continued challenges caused by Covid-19 facility closures and operational restrictions resulting in net losses was able to account for

A number of Covid-19 measures were removed in the second half of the year, Starr said, contributing to a recovery in domestic earnings in Australia. driven into a loss.

This impairment charge related to Star Sydney’s facilities and involved a number of different facts, including the venue’s future regulatory outlook. ongoing review.

Starr noted that business value could be further impacted depending on the outcome of the review.

Additionally, interim chairman Ben Heap, who was appointed in May, said the FY22 regulatory review also impacted Star. A review of operations at Starr Sydney, which he expects to complete by the end of August, will also see an independent review of Starr’s suitability to hold a casino license in Queensland in June. has been announced.

“Covid-19-related disruptions and regulatory reviews present significant challenges,” said Heap. “I would like to thank his team of 8,000 for their dedication and thank them for their tireless efforts.

“The underlying strengths of the business have allowed for a strong rebound after Covid-related facility closures and restrictions on operations.”

Heap also noted the effectiveness of Star’s “update program” put in place to earn the trust and confidence of its stakeholders, as well as the addition of new executive-level staff to propel the business forward.

Robbie Cook was appointed managing director and chief executive officer in July, making him the company’s fourth since late March. He will replace Jeff Hogg, who temporarily assumed the position in June.

“Robbie is well positioned to lead Starr and restore confidence in the organization,” Heap said. “He has the expertise and experience to guide the company through critical updates. This body of work has included many short-term and We plan to offer medium-term initiatives, particularly regarding his AML/CTF and KYC obligations.”

A closer look at Star’s performance for the 12 months ended June 30 shows that revenue fell 1.2% to $1.53 billion, down from $1.54 billion in 2011, and total revenue (including player rebates and 700 million Total game wins (before deducting the $10,000 promotional allowance) also reached $1.53 million.a billion

Despite being closed for 102 days due to Covid-19 restrictions, operator Star Sydney Properties was the main source of gross revenue, generating $781 million.Star Gold Cost earned $424 million. million dollars, Star’s Brisbane site grossed $326 million.

Looking at costs, spending increased across all areas, with the largest increase in depreciation, amortization and impairment charges, driven by a one-time goodwill impairment charge of $162.5 million. increase. The highest expenditure was on personnel costs, at $597.1m, while government tax and levy payments totaled £387.7m.

As a result, loss before interest and income taxes (EBIT) reached $147.7 million, compared to earnings of $138.4 million A loss of $200 million was in contrast to a gain of $79.8 million. 2021 years.

Star received tax benefits of $1.4 million, of which the after-tax change in fair value of cash flow hedges applied to equity accounted for $20.5 million.

Additionally, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization were $237 million, down 45.0% from the prior year.

Acting CEO Hogg said, “Over the past year, I’ve been amazed at how resilient our business has been and how quickly our customers have returned when properties are able to open and operate without restrictions. “This gives me a lot of confidence going forward.

“The underlying earnings prospects for The Star’s domestic operations remain attractive. They are underpinned by valuable long-term licenses in attractive locations, making our properties globally competitive integrated It continues to transform itself into a resort.

“Thank you to all our guests and dedicated employees for their tremendous support during this difficult time.”

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