Wynn Resorts Reports Strong Q3 2023 Financials Amid UAE Expansion Plans

Wynn Resorts, a leading global hospitality and entertainment company, announced stellar financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2023. 

CEO Craig Billings Applauds Wynn Resorts’ Q3 Success and Diverse Portfolio Strength

The company reported operating revenues of $1.67 billion, marking a significant increase of $782.2 million compared to the same period in 2022. Net loss attributable to Wynn Resorts was $116.7 million for Q3 2023, an improvement from the net loss of $142.9 million in Q3 2022.

Wynn Resorts CEO, Craig Billings, expressed satisfaction with the results, emphasizing the ongoing strength across the company’s property portfolio. He attributed the success to outstanding performances at Wynn Las Vegas and Encore Boston Harbor, which achieved a new third-quarter record for Adjusted Property EBITDAR at their combined North American properties.

Billings also highlighted the positive developments in Macau, where the recovery showed progress in mass gaming, luxury retail, and hotel businesses.  The breakdown of operating revenues showed increases at Wynn Palace, Wynn Macau, Las Vegas Operations, and Wynn Interactive, while Encore Boston Harbor experienced a slight decrease compared to Q3 2022. 

Wynn Resorts Navigates UAE Regulations, Progressing Toward 2027 Opening

Looking at the company’s financial position, Wynn Resorts reported cash and cash equivalents of $2.79 billion as of September 30, 2023, and total current and long-term debt outstanding of $11.79 billion. Wynn Resorts also declared a cash dividend of $0.25 per share.

In addition to the financial results, Wynn Resorts discussed its ongoing projects, including the construction of Wynn Al Marjan Island in the UAE. CEO Craig Billings mentioned that regulatory developments in the UAE suggest that Wynn Resorts might face minimal competition in the initial years after the resort’s opening in 2027. He anticipated a possible duopoly or oligopoly with one or two competitors emerging in the market later.

The company is closely monitoring the regulatory environment in the UAE, where former MGM CEO Jim Murren has been named chairman of the gaming authority. The licensing process is progressing, providing clarity for financing sources and allowing Wynn Resorts to move forward with construction financing.

According to JPMorgan analysts, Dubai’s General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) may expedite the introduction of gambling laws, anticipating swift progress for the Wynn Resorts project. While MGM Resorts International eyes a potential non-gaming property in Dubai initially, Wynn Resorts aims to secure a prominent position in the lucrative Middle East market by 2027.

Despite the positive financial results and promising future developments, Wynn Resorts’ stock experienced a 5% decline in after-hours trading. Investors are likely reacting to broader market dynamics and considerations beyond the Q3 performance.