DouYu International Holdings Limited Reports Third Quarter 2022 Unaudited Financial Results

DouYu International Holdings Limited ("DouYu" or the "Company") (Nasdaq: DOYU), a leading game-centric live streaming platform in China and a pioneer in the eSports value chain, today announced its unaudited financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2022 .

Third Quarter 2022 Financial and Operational Highlights

  • Total net revenues in the third quarter of 2022 were RMB1,798.3 million ( US$252.8 million ) compared with RMB2,348.0 million in the same period of 2021.
  • Gross profit in the third quarter of 2022 was RMB251.2 million ( US$35.3 million ), compared with RMB278.5 million in the same period of 2021.
  • Net loss in the third quarter of 2022 was RMB6.6 million ( US$0.9 million ), compared with RMB143 .5 million in the same period of 2021.
  • Adjusted net income (loss) [1] in the third quarter of 2022 was RMB25.7 million ( US$3.6 million ), compared with an adjusted net loss of RMB72.7 million in the same period of 2021.
  • Average mobile MAUs [2] in the third quarter of 2022 decreased by 7.7% to 57.1 million from 61.9 million in the same period of 2021.
  • Quarterly average paying user [3] count in the third quarter of 2022 was 5.6 million, compared with 7.2 million in the same period of 2021.

Mr. Shaojie Chen , Chief Executive Officer of DouYu, commented, "During the third quarter, we achieved stable and holistic business development as we navigated through a challenging macro environment. We stabilized our user base through continuous innovation and investment in our content and service offerings, while further improving revenue quality and augmenting our cost control initiatives. This quarter, our mobile MAUs grew by 2.5%  to 57.1 million compared to last quarter. We also delivered a steady financial performance, realizing an adjusted net profit of RMB25.7 million . Going forward, we will further advance our game-centric ecosystem and deepen our collaboration with game developers, leveraging games' unique features and our abundant streamer resources to cultivate and iterate game content and interactive features. Driven by the vibrancy of our gaming communities, we endeavor to execute our growth strategy to develop and enrich our comprehensive game-centric content platform. We will maintain our leading position in the traditional livestreaming industry while exploring new initiatives to drive sustainable and healthy growth."

Mr. Hao Cao, Vice President of DouYu, commented, "Our total revenue in the third quarter reached RMB1.8 billion , and our gross profit was RMB251.2 million , representing a gross margin of 14%. We also achieved an adjusted net income of RMB25.7 million . During this quarter, we continued to invest in high-quality self-produced content, and maintained a steady performance of our livestreaming business, while exploring new game-related business models. At the same time, we delivered an adjusted net profit for the second consecutive quarter, a result of our ongoing efforts to implement cost controls and optimize expenses. As of the end of the third quarter, we had cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, and short-term and long-term bank deposits of RMB6,872.7 million . Our abundant cash reserves would allow us to retain agility despite of the challenging macro environment, meaning that we can continue to stabilize and improve the financial performance of our core business. Looking ahead, we will proactively explore diversified avenues for monetization and refine our operating model in order to generate long-term shareholder value."

Third Quarter 2022 Financial Results

Total net revenues in the third quarter of 2022 decreased by 23.4% to RMB1,798.3 million ( US$252 .8 million), compared with RMB2,348.0 million in the same period of 2021.

Livestreaming revenues in the third quarter of 2022 decreased by 22.9% to RMB1,705 .0 million ( US$239 .7 million) from RMB2,210.5 million in the same period of 2021. The decrease was primarily due to the ongoing implementation of prudent operating strategies which primarily included the Company's adjustments to certain interactive features and related operations to promote the long-term development of its platform.

Advertising and other revenues in the third quarter of 2022 were RMB93 .3 million ( US$13.1 million ), compared with RMB137.5 million in the same period of 2021. The decrease was primarily due to the continued exploration of new commercialization models by using a portion of advertising traffic that could have been directly monetized, as well as the soft demand for advertisements under the weak macro economy. The decrease was partially offset by the increase in other revenues contributed by game-specific membership services.

Cost of revenues in the third quarter of 2022 was RMB1,547.1 million ( US$217 .5 million), a decrease of 25.2% compared with RMB2,069.5 million in the same period of 2021.

Revenue sharing fees and content costs in the third quarter of 2022 decreased to RMB1,319 .6 million ( US$185 .5 million) from RMB1,839.9 million in the same period of 2021. The decrease was primarily due to decreased revenue sharing fees which outpaced the decrease in livestreaming revenues, as well as a significant decrease in copyright costs.

Bandwidth costs in the third quarter of 2022 decreased by 17.4% to RMB135.0 million ( US$19.0 million ) from RMB163.4 million in the same period of 2021. The decrease was mainly due to higher bandwidth efficiency achieved from dynamic bandwidth allocation, as well as a year-over-year reduction in peak bandwidth usage.

Gross profit in the third quarter of 2022 was RMB251.2 million ( US$35 .3 million), compared with RMB278.5 million in the same period of 2021. Gross margin in the third quarter of 2022 improved to 14.0% from 11.9% in the same period of 2021. The increase in gross margin was primarily due to the decreases in both copyright costs and revenue sharing fees as a percentage of total net revenues, which was partially offset by the increase in other costs as a percentage of total net revenues.

Sales and marketing expenses in the third quarter of 2022 decreased 25.9% to RMB162.1 million ( US$22.8 million ) from RMB218.9 million in the same period of 2021. The decrease was mainly attributable to the significant decrease in marketing expenses for user acquisition and branding expenses.

Research and development expenses in the third quarter of 2022 decreased 31.5% to RMB84.4 million ( US$11.9 million ) from RMB123.2 million in the same period of 2021. The decrease was primarily attributable to the decrease in personnel-related expenses.

General and administrative expenses in the third quarter of 2022 decreased 39.5% to RMB52.3 million ( US$7.4 million ) from RMB86.5 million in the same period of 2021, mainly due to the decrease in share-based compensation expenses and professional service fees.

Other operating   income, net in the third quarter of 2022 was RMB36.5 million ( US$5.1 million ), compared with RMB25.8 million in the same period of 2021.

Loss from operations in the third quarter of 2022 was RMB11.1 million ( US$1.6 million ), compared with RMB124.3 million in the same period of 2021.

Adjusted operating loss in the third quarter of 2022, which adds back share-based compensation expenses, was RMB8.4 million ( US$1.2 million ), compared with adjusted operating loss of RMB91 .0 million in the same period of 2021.

Net loss in the third quarter of 2022 was RMB6.6 million ( US$0.9 million ), compared with RMB143 .5 million in the same period of 2021.

Adjusted net income(loss) in the third quarter of 2022, which excludes share-based compensation expenses, share of loss in equity method investments, and impairment loss of investments, was RMB25.7 million ( US$3.6 million ), compared with adjusted net loss of RMB72.7 million in the same period of 2021.

Basic and diluted net loss per ADS [4] in the third quarter of 2022 were RMB0.01 (US$0.001) and RMB0.01 (US$0.001) , respectively. Adjusted basic and diluted net income per ADS in the third quarter of 2022 were RMB0.09 (US$0.01) and RMB0.09 (US$0.01) , respectively.

Cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash and bank deposits

As of September 30, 2022 , the Company had cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, short-term and long-term bank deposits of RMB 6,8 72.7 million ( US$966.2 million ), compared with RMB6,643.5 million as of December 31, 2021 .

Conference Call Information

The Company will hold a conference call on November 21, 2022 , at 7:00 am Eastern Time (or 8:00pm Beijing Time on the same day) to discuss the financial results. Listeners may access the call by dialing the following numbers:

International:

1-412-317-6061

United States Toll Free:

1-888-317-6003

Mainland China Toll Free:

4001-206115

Hong Kong Toll Free:

800-963976

Singapore Toll Free:

800-120-5863

Conference ID:

2596363

The replay will be accessible through November 28, 2022, by dialing the following numbers:

International:

1-412-317-0088

United States Toll Free:

1-877-344-7529

Conference ID:

7404748

A live and archived webcast of the conference call will also be available at the Company's investor relations website at https://ir.douyu.com/ .

[1] "Adjusted net income (loss)" is calculated as net loss before share-based compensation expenses, and share of loss in equity method investments, and impairment loss on investments. For more information, please refer to "Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures" and "Reconciliations of GAAP and Non-GAAP Results" at the end of this press release.

[2] Refers to the number of mobile devices that launched our mobile apps in a given period. Average mobile MAUs for a given period is calculated by dividing (i) the sum of active mobile users for each month of such period, by (ii) the number of months in such period.

[3] "Quarterly average paying users" refers to the average paying users for each quarter during a given period of time calculated by dividing (i) the sum of paying users for each quarter of such period, by (ii) the number of quarters in such period. "Paying user" refers to a registered user that has purchased virtual gifts on our platform at least once during the relevant period.

[4] Every ten ADSs represent one ordinary share.

About DouYu International Holdings Limited

Headquartered in Wuhan, China , DouYu International Holdings Limited (Nasdaq: DOYU) is a leading game-centric live streaming platform in China and a pioneer in the eSports value chain. DouYu operates its platform on both PC and mobile apps to bring users access to immersive and interactive games and entertainment livestreaming, a wide array of video and graphic contents, as well as opportunities to participate in community events and discussions. By nurturing a sustainable technology-based talent development system and relentlessly producing high-quality content, DouYu consistently delivers premium content through integration of livestreaming, video, graphics, and virtual communities with a primary focus on games, especially on eSports. This enables DouYu to continuously expand its user base and enhance its user experience. For more information, please see https://ir.douyu.com/ .

Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

Adjusted operating income (loss) is calculated as operating income (loss) adjusted for share-based compensation expenses. Adjusted net income (loss) is calculated as net income (loss) adjusted for share-based compensation expenses, share of income (loss) in equity method investments and impairment loss on investments. Adjusted net income (loss) attributable to DouYu is calculated as net income (loss) attributable to DouYu adjusted for share-based compensation expenses, share of income (loss) in equity method investments and impairment loss of investments. Adjusted basic and diluted net income per ordinary share is non-GAAP net income attributable to ordinary shareholders divided by weighted average number of ordinary shares used in the calculation of non-GAAP basic and diluted net income per ordinary share. The Company adjusted the impact of (i) share-based compensation expenses, (ii) share of income (loss) in equity method investments, (iii) impairment loss of investments to understand and evaluate the Company's core operating performance. The non-GAAP financial measures are presented to enhance investors' overall understanding of the Company's financial performance and should not be considered a substitute for, or superior to, the financial information prepared and presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Investors are encouraged to review the reconciliation of the historical non-GAAP financial measures to its most directly comparable GAAP financial measures. As non-GAAP financial measures have material limitations as analytical metrics and may not be calculated in the same manner by all companies, they may not be comparable to other similarly titled measures used by other companies. In light of the foregoing limitations, you should not consider non-GAAP financial measures as a substitute for, or superior to, such metrics in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

For more information on these non-GAAP financial measures, please see the table captioned "Reconciliations of Non-GAAP Results" near the end of this release.

Exchange Rate Information

This announcement contains translations of certain RMB amounts into U.S. dollars at a specified rate solely for the convenience of the reader. Unless otherwise noted, all translations from RMB to U.S. dollars are made at a rate of RMB7.1135 to US$1.00 , the noon buying rate in effect on September 30, 2022 , in the H.10 statistical release of the Federal Reserve Board. The Company makes no representation that the RMB amounts could have been, or could be, converted, realized or settled in U.S. dollars at that rate on September 30, 2022 , or at any other rate.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the Company's beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, and a number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: the Company's results of operations and financial condition; the Company's business strategies; general market conditions, in particular the game live streaming market; the ability of the Company to retain and grow active and paying users; changes in general economic and business conditions in China ; the impact of the COVID-19 to the Company's business operations and the economy in China and globally; any adverse changes in laws, regulations, rules, policies or guidelines applicable to the Company; and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by words or phrases such as "may," "will," "expect," "anticipate," "target," "aim," "estimate," "intend," "plan," "believe," "potential," "continue," "is/are likely to" or other similar expressions. Further information regarding these and other risks, uncertainties or factors is included in the Company's filings with the Securities Exchange Commission. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake any duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

Investor Relations Contact

Lingling Kong
DouYu International Holdings Limited
Email: ir@douyu.tv
Phone: +1 (646) 224-6934

Robin Yang
ICR, LLC
Email: DouYu.IR@icrinc.com
Phone: +1 (646) 224-6934

Media Relations Contact

Lingling Kong
DouYu International Holdings Limited
Email: pr_douyu@douyu.tv
Phone: +1 (646) 308-1475

Edmond Lococo
ICR, LLC
Email: DouYu.PR@icrinc.com
Phone: +1 (646) 308-1475

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(All amounts in thousands, except share, ADS, per share and per ADS data)



As of December 31


As of September 30


2021


2022


2022

ASSETS

RMB


RMB


US$ (1)

Current assets:






Cash and cash equivalents

4,456,406


4,356,693


612,454

Restricted cash

10,703


6,057


851

Short-term bank deposits

2,076,355


2,509,960


352,845

Accounts receivable, net

191,389


129,058


18,143

Prepayments

80,717


47,657


6,700

Amounts due from related parties

37,159


37,987


5,340

Other current assets

376,367


345,486


48,568

Total current assets

7,229,096


7,432,898


1,044,901







Property and equipment, net

25,111


15,638


2,198

Intangible assets, net

161,540


124,470


17,498

Long-term bank deposits

100,000


-


-

Investments

491,425


485,317


68,225

Goodwill

12,637


14,072


1,978

Right-of-use assets, net

72,309


49,512


6,960

Other non-current assets

64,785


68,862


9,680

Total non-current assets

927,807


757,871


106,539

TOTAL ASSETS

8,156,903


8,190,769


1,151,440

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY






LIABILITIES






Current liabilities:






Accounts payable

824,128


675,158


94,912

Advances from customers

7,476


8,181


1,150

Deferred revenue

235,134


294,312


41,374

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

458,328


270,992


38,095

Amounts due to related parties

293,508


265,548


37,330

Lease liabilities due within one year

30,417


26,270


3,693

Total current liabilities

1,848,991


1,540,461


216,554







Lease liabilities

31,278


19,707


2,770

Deferred revenue

18,045


10,047


1,412

Total non-current liabilities

49,323


29,754


4,182

TOTAL LIABILITIES

1,898,314


1,570,215


220,736


(1) Translations of of certain RMB amounts into U.S. dollars at a specified rate are solely for the convenience of the reader. Unless otherwise noted, all
translations from RMB to U.S. dollars are made at a rate of RMB7.1135 to US$1.00, the noon buying rate in effect on September 30, 2022, in the H.10
statistical release of the Federal Reserve Board.

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (CONTINUED)

(All amounts in thousands, except share, ADS, per share and per ADS data)



As of December 31


As of September 30


2021


2022


2022


RMB


RMB


US$ (1)

SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY






Ordinary shares

23


23


3

Treasury shares

(802,250)


(911,217)


(128,097)

Additional paid-in capital

10,618,538


10,670,287


1,500,005

Accumulated deficit

(3,445,102)


(3,565,846)


(501,279)

Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income

(112,621)


423,827


59,583

Total DouYu Shareholders' Equity

6,258,588


6,617,074


930,215

Noncontrolling interests

1


3,480


489

Total Shareholders' Equity

6,258,589


6,620,554


930,704

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

8,156,903


8,190,769


1,151,440


(1) Translations of certain RMB amounts into U.S. dollars at a specified rate are solely for the convenience of the reader. Unless otherwise noted, all
translations from RMB to U.S. dollars are made at a rate of RMB7.1135 to US$1.00, the noon buying rate in effect on September 30, 2022, in the H.10
statistical release of the Federal Reserve Board.

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (LOSS)

(All amounts in thousands, except share, ADS, per share and per ADS data)



Three Months Ended

Nine Months Ended


Sep 30,

2021


June 30,

2022


Sep 30,

2022


Sep 30,

2022


Sep 30,

2021


Sep 30,

2022


Sep 30,

2022


RMB


RMB


RMB


US$ (1)


RMB


RMB


US$ (1)

Net revenues

2,347,955


1,833,205


1,798,333


252,806


6,837,414


5,427,184


762,941

Cost of revenues

(2,069,476)


(1,524,167)


(1,547,091)


(217,487)


(5,992,198)


(4,623,131)


(649,909)

Gross profit

278,479


309,038


251,242


35,319


845,216


804,053


113,032

Operating (expenses) income (2)














Sales and marketing expenses

(218,859)


(167,463)


(162,137)


(22,793)


(723,688)


(515,959)


(72,532)

General and administrative expenses

(86,521)


(90,659)


(52,308)


(7,353)


(277,219)


(233,066)


(32,764)

Research and development expenses

(123,165)


(101,847)


(84,371)


(11,861)


(357,444)


(302,525)


(42,528)

Other operating income, net

25,811


20,375


36,459


5,125


66,416


104,633


14,709

Total operating expenses

(402,734)


(339,594)


(262,357)


(36,882)


(1,291,935)


(946,917)


(133,115)

Loss from operations

(124,255)


(30,556)


(11,115)


(1,563)


(446,719)


(142,864)


(20,083)

Other expenses, net

(32,921)


(28,884)


(32,577)


(4,580)


(32,615)


(62,609)


(8,801)

Interest income, net

18,806


23,570


34,402


4,836


59,503


74,602


10,487

Loss before income taxes and share of

Loss in equity method investments

(138,370)


(35,870)


(9,290)


(1,307)


(419,831)


(130,871)


(18,397)

Income tax expense

-


-


-


-


-


-


-

Share of (loss) income in equity method investments

(5,161)


(2,887)


2,647


372


(7,191)


(1,386)


(195)

Net loss

(143,531)


(38,757)


(6,643)


(935)


(427,022)


(132,257)


(18,592)

Less: Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest

(22,115)


(7,841)


(3,672)


(516)


(96,580)


(11,513)


(1,618)

Net loss attributable to ordinary

shareholders of the Company

(121,416)


(30,916)


(2,971)


(419)


(330,442)


(120,744)


(16,974)

Net loss per ordinary share














Basic

(3.71)


(0.97)


(0.09)


(0.01)


(10.16)


(3.78)


(0.53)

Diluted

(3.71)


(0.97)


(0.09)


(0.01)


(10.16)


(3.78)


(0.53)

Net loss per ADS (3)














Basic

(0.37)


(0.10)


(0.01)


-


(1.02)


(0.38)


(0.05)

Diluted

(0.37)


(0.10)


(0.01)


-


(1.02)


(0.38)


(0.05)

Weighted average number of ordinary shares used in calculating net loss per ordinary share

Basic

32,692,871


31,827,240


31,966,417


31,966,417


32,520,952


31,953,780


31,953,780

Diluted

32,692,871


31,827,240


31,966,417


31,966,417


32,520,952


31,953,780


31,953,780

Weighted average number of ADS used in calculating net loss per ADS (3)

Basic

326,928,712


318,272,401


319,664,172


319,664,172


325,209,521


319,537,795


319,537,795

Diluted

326,928,712


318,272,401


319,664,172


319,664,172


325,209,521


319,537,795


319,537,795


(1) Translations of certain RMB amounts into U.S. dollars at a specified rate are solely for the convenience of the reader. Unless otherwise noted, all
translations from RMB to U.S. dollars are made at a rate of RMB7.1135 to US$1.00, the noon buying rate in effect on September30, 2022, in the H.10
statistical release of the Federal Reserve Board.

(2) Share-based compensation expenses were allocated in cost of revenues and operating expenses as follows:





Three Months Ended


Nine Months Ended


Sep 30,

2021


June 30,

2022


Sep 30,

2022


Sep 30,

2022


Sep 30,

2021


Sep 30,

2022


Sep 30,

2022


RMB


RMB


RMB


US$ (1)


RMB


RMB


US$ (1)

Research and development expenses

5,449


5,437


605


85


16,217


11,476


1,613

Sales and marketing expenses

1,214


1,213


135


19


3,609


2,560


360

General and administrative expenses

26,610


24,184


1,958


275


79,052


52,705


7,409


(3) Every ten ADSs represent one ordinary share.

RECONCILIATIONS OF GAAP AND NON-GAAP RESULTS

(All amounts in thousands, except share, ADS, per share and per ADS data)



Three Months Ended


Nine Months Ended


Sep 30,

2021


June 30,

2022


Sep 30,

2022



Sep 30,

2022


Sep 30,

2021


Sep 30,

2022


Sep 30,

2022


RMB


RMB


RMB



US$ (1)


RMB


RMB


US$ (1)

Loss from operations

(124,255)


(30,556)


(11,115)



(1,563)


(446,719)


(142,864)


(20,083)

Add:















Share-based compensation expenses

33,273


30,834


2,698



379


98,878


66,741


9,382

Adjusted Operating (loss) income

(90,982)


278


(8,417)



(1,184)


(347,841)


(76,123)


(10,701)
















Net Loss

(143,531)


(38,757)


(6,643)



(935)


(427,022)


(132,257)


(18,592)

Add:















Share-based compensation expenses

33,273


30,834


2,698



379


98,878


66,741


9,382

Share of loss (income) in equity method investments

5,161


2,887


(2,647)



(372)


7,191


1,386


195

Impairment loss of investments

32,357


28,571


32,298



4,540


32,357


32,298


4,540

Adjusted net (loss) income

(72,740)


23,535


25,706



3,612


(288,596)


(31,832)


(4,475)
















Net loss attributable to DouYu

(121,416)


(30,916)


(2,971)



(419)


(330,442)


(120,744)


(16,974)

Add:















Share-based compensation expenses

33,273


30,834


2,698



379


98,878


66,741


9,382

Share of loss (income) in equity method investments

5,161


2,887


(2,647)



(372)


7,191


1,386


195

Impairment loss of investments

32,357


28,571


32,298



4,540


32,357


32,298


4,540

Adjusted net (loss) income attributable to DouYu

(50,625)


31,376


29,378



4,128


(192,016)


(20,319)


(2,857)
















Adjusted net (loss) income per ordinary share















Basic

(1.55)


0.99


0.92



0.13


(5.90)


(0.64)


(0.09)

Diluted

(1.55)


0.99


0.92



0.13


(5.90)


(0.64)


(0.09)
















Adjusted net (loss) income per ADS (2)















Basic

(0.15)


0.10


0.09



0.01


(0.59)


(0.06)


(0.01)

Diluted

(0.15)


0.10


0.09



0.01


(0.59)


(0.06)


(0.01)
















Weighted average number of ordinary shares used in calculating Adjusted net (loss) income per ordinary share

Basic

32,692,871


31,827,240


31,966,417



31,966,417


32,520,952


31,953,780


31,953,780

Diluted

32,692,871


31,827,240


31,966,417



31,966,417


32,520,952


31,953,780


31,953,780
















Weighted average number of ADS used in calculating net (loss) income per ADS (2)

Basic

326,928,712


318,272,401


319,664,172



319,664,172


325,209,521


319,537,795


319,537,795

Diluted

326,928,712


318,272,401


319,664,172



319,664,172


325,209,521


319,537,795


319,537,795


(1) Translations of certain RMB amounts into U.S. dollars at a specified rate are solely for the convenience of the reader. Unless otherwise noted, all
translations from RMB to U.S. dollars are made at a rate of RMB7.1135 to US$1.00, the noon buying rate in effect on September 30, 2022, in the H.10
statistical release of the Federal Reserve Board.

(2) Every ten ADSs represent one ordinary share.

Cision View original content: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/douyu-international-holdings-limited-reports-third-quarter-2022-unaudited-financial-results-301683610.html

SOURCE DouYu International Holdings Limited

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Mobile Gaming Stocks: 10 Biggest Companies in 2025

According to market intelligence firm Newzoo, global gaming revenue came in at US$177.9 billion in 2024, with mobile gaming accounting for more than half of that amount at US$97.6 billion.

The firm states that the mobile gaming market has reached maturity but still achieved higher growth than the console and PC segments, with revenue up by 2.8 percent globally last year. The regions driving that growth are North America and Europe, where markets rebounded due to big releases and diversified revenue streams.

Mobile games are typically accessed through three core operating systems: Apple's (NASDAQ:AAPL) iOS, Microsoft's (NASDAQ:MSFT) Windows and Alphabet's (NASDAQ:GOOGL) Android. Notably, the iOS App Store generated nearly 37 percent of its revenue from mobile gaming apps in 2024, totaling US$3.83 billion. However, figures show that most mobile games on the market today are developed for Android, representing 75 percent of total mobile game downloads.

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NorthStar Gaming Announces Revocation of Management Cease Trade Order

NorthStar Gaming Announces Revocation of Management Cease Trade Order

NorthStar Gaming Holdings Inc. (TSXV: BET) (OTCQB: NSBBF) ("NorthStar" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that effective May 16, 2025, the Ontario Securities Commission has revoked the temporary management cease trade order ("MCTO") it had previously granted to the Company on May 8, 2025 under National Policy 12-203 Management Cease Trade Orders, as the Company successfully completed the filing of its annual audited financial statements, management's discussion and analysis, and related certifications for the year ended December 31, 2024 (collectively, the "Annual Filings") on May 14, 2025.

The revocation of the MCTO means members of management are no longer prevented from trading the Company's securities. All of the Annual Filings are available under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

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NorthStar Gaming Reports Year-End 2024 Results

NorthStar Gaming Reports Year-End 2024 Results

Annual Revenue Growth of 57%, Gross Margin up 91%

NorthStar Gaming Holdings Inc. (TSXV: BET) (OTCQB: NSBBF) ("NorthStar" or the "Company") today announced its financial results for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024. The Company also announced that it will discuss the results on an investor webinar to be held Thursday, May 15, 2025 at 11:00am (please see below for details). All dollar figures are quoted in Canadian dollars.

"We delivered strong financial results in 2024, highlighted by 57% growth in revenue and a 91% increase in gross margin. At the same time, we held marketing expense to a 10% increase and reduced G&A expense, demonstrating the continually improving operating leverage built into our business model," said Michael Moskowitz, Chair and CEO of NorthStar. "Equally important, our team rolled out innovations in both our sportsbook and casino that have further differentiated NorthStar Bets as a premium offering and helped drive the retention of, and engagement with, our loyal customers."

Restatement of Results

The comparative results for the three months and twelve months ended December 31, 2023 have been restated in the financial statements and management's discussion & analysis ("FY2024 MD&A") for the year ended December 31, 2024 to include additional merchant fees and player bonus expenses which were not captured in the previously published financial statements (note 2 of the Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2024). The Company's payment processor deducted the additional merchant fee from the daily remittances to the Company, and the deductions were not accounted for by the Company. These additional fees were identified as part of the year-end reconciliation of the amount due from the payment processor, and the financial statements and FY2024 MD&A have been adjusted accordingly. These restatements did not impact the cash balances reported for the years ended December 31, 2022, 2023, or 2024. However, they did result in adjustments to the reported current asset balances for those periods.

Financial Highlights for the Fourth Quarter Ended December 31, 2024 ("Q4 2024"):

  • Total Wagers1 at Northstarbets.ca were $303.0 million in Q4 2024, a 42% increase compared to $213.3 million in Q4 2023.
  • Gross Gaming Revenue2 at Northstarbets.ca was $10.0 million in Q4 2024, a 31.6% increase from $7.6 million in Q4 2023.
  • Revenue2 was $9.5 million in Q4 2024, a 51% increase from $6.3 million in Q4 2023. Revenue in Q4 2024 includes $1.5 million of managed services revenue, which compares to $0.2 million in Q4 2023.
  • Gross Margin was $3.6 million, a 71% increase from $2.1 million in Q4 2023, while the Gross Margin percentage increased to 38.1%, up from 33.6% in Q4 2023.
  • Profit/(loss) before marketing and other expenses1 was $0.6 million in Q4 2024 compared to a loss of $2.5 million in Q4 2023, indicating that gross margin is now sufficient to cover the Company's overhead expenses.

Financial Highlights for the Year Ended December 31, 2024 ("FY 2024"):

  • Total Wagers2 at Northstarbets.ca were $980.0 million in FY 2024, a 51% increase compared to $648.8 million in the year ended December 31, 2023.
  • Gross Gaming Revenue2 at Northstarbets.ca was $34.0 million in FY 2024, a 51% increase from $22.5 million in FY 2023.
  • Revenue2 was $29.6 million in FY 2024, a 57% increase from $18.8 million in FY 2023. Revenue in FY 2024 includes $2.3 million of managed services revenue, which compares to $0.5 million in FY 2023.3
  • Gross Margin was $10.5 million, marking a 91% increase from $5.5 million in FY 2023, with the Gross Margin increasing to 35.7%, up from 29.3% in FY 2023.
  • Profit/(loss) before marketing and other expenses1 was $0.1 million in FY 2024 compared to a loss of $6.7 million in YTD 2023, an improvement of $6.8 million.

"Early in 2025, we completed our most significant fund-raising to date, with a $43.4 million debt financing. This capital gives us a long runway on which to continue our trajectory of growth in wagering, gross margins and improving operating leverage. This was a milestone event for our business," added Mr. Moskowitz.

2024 Operating Highlights:

  • Completed the inaugural Blackjack Championship tournament, an innovative online competition that helped drive the acquisition of new high-value players and engagement for existing customers while increasing Blackjack wagering activity.
  • Implemented a series of enhancements to the NorthStar Bets platform, highlighted by streamlined navigation in both the Casino and Sportsbook sections, a doubling of Casino game selection since the start of 2024, personalized prop bets and intelligent parlay suggestions.
  • Introduced the "NorthStar Elite" program and branded tables to help secure the loyalty and satisfaction of our most active players and reinforcing the Company's positioning as a premium offering.
  • Launched "Sports Insights 2.0," a robust suite of enhancements to our content vertical that includes a redesigned home page, comprehensive team and player statistics, injury and player news feeds, added coverage of popular sports and strengthened casino content.
  • Gained significant traction outside the Ontario market with managed services revenue from Northstarbets.com site, owned by the Abenaki Council of Wolinak, increasing from $0.5 million in FY 2023 to $2.3 million in FY 2024.
  • Outpaced the industry growth rates reported by iGaming Ontario in 2024 in both Total Wagers (51% for NorthStar vs. 33% for the industry) and Gross Gaming Revenue (51% for NorthStar vs. 31.5% for the industry).

Outlook

"We expect our consistent pattern of year-over-year revenue increases to continue throughout 2025, based on our ongoing success in attracting and engaging high-value players," said Mr. Moskowitz. "We will maintain disciplined control over costs so that incremental gross margin falls primarily to the bottom line. As we continue to focus on operational excellence, we remain confident that we have the capital necessary to reach profitability based on our current business platform."

FY 2024 Corporate Update Webinar

On May 15, 2025, Michael Moskowitz will present an in-depth Corporate Update, including a discussion of the Company's FY 2024 Earnings, current operations and strategic priorities. All investors and other interested parties are invited to register for the webinar at the link below.

Date: Thursday, May 15, 2025
Time: 11:00 am EDT
Register: Webinar Registration

Management will be available to answer your questions following the presentation on the webinar platform. You may also submit your question(s) beforehand in the registration form linked above.

Extension of Strategic Marketing Agreement

The Company also announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, NorthStar Gaming (Ontario) Inc. ("NorthStar Ontario"), has extended its strategic partnership with Playtech Software Limited ("Playtech Software") through the renewal of their previously announced strategic marketing agreement. Under the agreement, Playtech Software contributes services designed to accelerate NorthStar Ontario's player acquisition strategy in the province. The agreement was first implemented in June 2023 and has since been renewed several times. Pursuant to the latest renewal, Playtech Software will reimburse marketing expenses valued at a total of up to $1.5 million over a 3-month period through to March 31, 2025. Playtech Software will be compensated through a share of revenue from the income generated in connection with the marketing initiatives to which it contributes. The Transaction between Playtech and NorthStar Ontario is exempted from Multilateral Instrument 61-101 Protection of Minority Securityholders in Special Transactions.

"We are very pleased to renew the marketing services agreement with Playtech Software," said Michael Moskowitz, Chair and CEO of NorthStar. "The agreement serves to extend our marketing budget and has contributed to our tremendous growth in Ontario. Playtech plc continues to be a valuable strategic partner and we look forward to further collaboration."

Continuous Disclosure

Further to a review by the staff of the Ontario Securities Commission (the "OSC") of the Company's continuous disclosure, the FY2024 MD&A includes enhanced disclosures with respect to:

  • the Company's regulatory framework, licensing regimes applicable to its business operations and the legal authorizations necessary to conduct its business operations;
  • specific risk factors relating to the Company's business operations which include risks relating to operating in a heavily regulated industry, cyber security risks and risks relating to conflicts of interest with respect to directors and officers of the Company; and
  • the relationship between the Abenaki Council of Wolinak and the Company as well as its subsidiary, Slapshot Media Inc.

Such amended disclosure is being included in the FY2024 MD&A to address comments received from the OSC on its management's discussion & analysis, for the period ended September 30, 2024, and to improve the Company's disclosure.

As a result of having to include such enhanced disclosure after the OSC review, the Company will be placed on the public list of Refilings and Errors in accordance with OSC Staff Notice 51-711 (Revised) - Refilings and Corrections of Errors for a period of three (3) years.

Additional Information

For additional information, please refer to the Company's condensed consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2024, and the corresponding FY2024 MD&A. These documents are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca, and on the Company's corporate website at www.northstargaming.ca.

About NorthStar

NorthStar proudly owns and operates NorthStar Bets, a Canadian-born casino and sportsbook platform that delivers a premium, distinctly local gaming experience. Designed with high-stakes players in mind, NorthStar Bets Casino offers a curated selection of the most popular games, ensuring an elevated user experience. Our sportsbook stands out with its exclusive Sports Insights feature, seamlessly integrating betting guidance, stats, and scores, all tailored to meet the expectations of a premium audience.

As a Canadian company, NorthStar is uniquely positioned to cater to customers who seek a high-quality product and an exceptional level of personalized service, setting a new standard in the industry. NorthStar is committed to operating at the highest level of responsible gaming standards.

No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange ("TSXV") nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

Non-IFRS Financial Measures [/ Reconciliation of Non-IFRS Measures to IFRS Measures]

Throughout this document, management uses certain non-IFRS financial measures and supplementary financial measures to evaluate the performance of the Company. The terms "Gross Gaming Revenue" "Total Wagers" and "Profit/(Loss) before marketing and other expenses" are non-IFRS financial measures. These measures are not recognized measures under International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS") and do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and are, therefore, not necessarily comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. Rather, these measures are provided as additional information to complement those IFRS measures by providing further understanding of our results of operations from management's perspective and to discuss NorthStar's financial outlook. Accordingly, these measures should not be considered in isolation nor as a substitute for analysis of the Company's financial information reported under IFRS. We believe that securities analysts, investors and other interested parties frequently use non-IFRS measures, including industry metrics, in the evaluation of companies in our industry. Management also uses non-IFRS measures and industry metrics in order to facilitate operating performance comparisons from period to period, the preparation of annual operating budgets and forecasts and to determine components of executive compensation.

Total Wagers

Total Wagers are calculated as the total amount of money bet by customers in respect of bets that have settled in the applicable period. Total Wagers does not include free bets or other promotional incentives, nor money bet by customers in respect of bets that are open at period end. Total Wagers is used to provide investors with supplemental measures of our operating performance and thus highlight trends in our business that may not otherwise be apparent when relying solely on IFRS measures.

Gross Gaming Revenue

Gross Gaming Revenue is calculated as dollar amounts bet by customers less the dollar amounts paid out to the customers in respect of such bets which have settled in the applicable period.

Reconciliation of Non-IFRS Measures to IFRS Measures

In Q4 2024, the Company reported $10.0 million of Gross Gaming Revenue ($34.0 million in FY 2024) and has provided a reconciliation to the most comparable IFRS financial measure (Revenue) as follows:
$ Millions (unaudited)
Unaudited Three
months ended
Year ended
Dec 31,
2024
Dec 31,
2023
Dec 31,
2024
Dec 31,
2023
Gross gaming revenue from wagered games$10.0$ 7.6$ 34.0$22.5
Bonuses, promotional costs and free bets(2.0)(1.5)(6.7)(4.2)
Sub-total Gaming revenue8.06.127.318.3
Other revenue from managed services1.50.22.30.5
Revenue$ 9.5$ 6.3$ 29.6$ 18.8

 

Operating Results

Marketing expenses are a key driver of the business but are completely discretionary. Management considers "Profit/(Loss) before marketing and other expenses" to be a good indication of the extent to which the business' Gross Margin is in excess of its overhead costs, and therefore offsetting some portion of marketing expenses, reflecting improving economies of scale.

$ Millions (unaudited)Unaudited Three 
months ended
Year ended
Dec 31,
2024
Dec 31,
2023
Dec 31,
2024
Dec 31,
2023
Revenue$ 9,478$ 6,275$ 29,556$ 18,845
Cost of Revenues5,8684,16719,01313,317
Gross Margin3,6102,10810,5435,528
General and administrative expenses3,0334,45210,45312,277
Profit/(Loss) before marketing and other expenses (1)577(2,344)90(6,749)
Marketing5,2495,47215,45614,094
Loss before other expenses (1)(4,672)(7,816)(15,366)(20,843)
Other expenses(1,070)1493,6456,547
Net loss$ (3,602)$ (7,965)$ (19,011)$ (27,390)

 

(1) These measures are not defined by IFRS, do not have standard meanings and may not be comparable with other industries or companies.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information and Statements

This communication contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws in Canada ("forward-looking statements"), including without limitation, statements with respect to the following: expected performance of the Company's business, the Company's growth plans being fully funded, expansion into new markets and future growth opportunities, and expected benefits of transactions. The foregoing are provided for the purpose of presenting information about management's current expectations and plans relating to the future and allowing investors and others to get a better understanding of the Company's anticipated financial position, results of operations, and operating environment. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "continues", "forecasts", "projects", "predicts", "intends", "anticipates" or "believes", or variations of, or the negatives of, such words and phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "should", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. This information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. This forward-looking information is based on management's opinions, estimates and assumptions that, while considered by NorthStar to be appropriate and reasonable as of the date of this press release, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such factors include, among others, the following: risks related to the Company's business and financial position; risks associated with general economic conditions; adverse industry risks; future legislative and regulatory developments; the ability of the Company to implement its business strategies; and those factors discussed in greater detail under the "Risk Factors" section of the Company's most recent annual information form, which is available under NorthStar's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Many of these risks are beyond the Company's control.

If any of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or if the opinions, estimates or assumptions underlying the forward-looking information prove incorrect, actual results or future events might vary materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements. Although the Company has attempted to identify important risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements, there may be other risk factors not presently known to the Company or that the Company presently believes are not material that could also cause actual results or future events to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking statements. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. No forward-looking statement is a guarantee of future results. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information, which speaks only as of the date made. The forward-looking information contained in this press release represents NorthStar's expectations as of the date specified herein, and are subject to change after such date. However, the Company disclaims any intention or obligation or undertaking to update or revise any forward-looking information whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable securities laws.

All of the forward-looking information contained in this press release is expressly qualified by the foregoing cautionary statements.

For further information:

Company Contact:

Corey Goodman
Chief Development Officer 647-530-2387
investorrelations@northstargaming.ca

Investor Relations:
RB Milestone Group LLC (RBMG)
Northstar@rbmilestone.com

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NorthStar Gaming Announces Receipt of Management Cease Trade Order

NorthStar Gaming Announces Receipt of Management Cease Trade Order

NorthStar Gaming Holdings Inc. (TSXV: BET) (OTCQB: NSBBF) ("NorthStar" or the "Company") today announces that its principal regulator, the Ontario Securities Commission, has granted its request for a management cease trade order ("MCTO") effective May 8, 2025.

As previously announced on April 29, 2025, the Company applied for the MCTO due to a delay in filing its annual audited financial statements, management's discussion and analysis and related certifications for the financial year ended December 31, 2024 (the "Annual Filings") which were required to be filed by April 30, 2025.

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NorthStar Gaming Announces Delay of Annual Filings

NorthStar Gaming Announces Delay of Annual Filings

NorthStar Gaming Holdings Inc. (TSXV: BET) (OTCQB: NSBBF) ("NorthStar" or the "Company") today announces an anticipated delay in the filing of its annual audited financial statements, management's discussion and analysis and related certifications for the financial year ended December 31, 2024 (collectively, the "Annual Filings"). The Company does not expect to file its Annual Filings by the regular filing deadline of April 30, 2025, as required, due to an unanticipated delay relating to the audit of the Annual Filings. The Company is working diligently with its auditor to finalize the Annual Filings and expects to file the Annual Filings no later than May 15, 2025.

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