Century Casinos Completes Sale of Four Alberta Casino Properties to VICI Properties Inc.
In a recent announcement, Century Casinos has officially sealed the deal on the sale of four prominent casino properties in Alberta, marking a significant move in the gaming and entertainment industry. The properties in question—Century Casino & Hotel Edmonton, Century Casino St. Albert, Century Mile Racetrack and Casino in Edmonton, and Century Downs Racetrack and Casino in Calgary—have been sold to VICI Properties Inc. for a combined purchase price of CA$221.7 million.
The Finalization of the Sale
The official confirmation of the sale came via a statement from Century Casinos, signaling the completion of this significant transaction. Following the sale, Century Casinos retained approximately CA$154.5 million of the purchase price, factoring in expenses related to the acquisition of Century Downs land, selling expenses, and taxes payable to minority property owners.
As part of the deal's culmination, the Century Canadian Portfolio was integrated into the existing triple-net master lease agreement between VICI's subsidiaries and Century Casinos' subsidiaries. This resulted in an annual rent increase of CA$17.3 million. It's worth noting that the annual rent escalation tied to the Century Canadian Portfolio is capped at 2.5%.
Additionally, the term of the Master Lease will be extended, ensuring a complete 15-year initial base lease term after the transaction's closing, along with four five-year renewal options. Stifle served as the exclusive financial advisor to Century Casinos, with legal counsel provided by Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP and Field LLP.
Linked materials
Century Casinos' Leadership Expresses Excitement
Erwin Haitzmann and Peter Hoetzinger, Co-Chief Executive Officers of Century Casinos, expressed their enthusiasm for the completion of the deal with VICI. They emphasized that this transaction not only provides the company with the means to reduce its debt but also offers significant financial flexibility, enabling Century Casinos to pursue further expansion within the industry.
Expansion Efforts for Both Companies
It's worth noting that VICI Properties has been actively expanding its portfolio in Alberta. Earlier in 2023, the corporation made a strategic move by entering into an agreement with Pure Canadian Gaming Corporation to acquire several gaming locations, including Pure Casino Edmonton, Pure Casino Yellowhead, Pure Casino Calgary, and Pure Casino Lethbridge.
On the other hand, Century Casinos has been equally dedicated to growing its footprint. In July of the same year, the company announced the successful acquisition of Rocky Gap Casino Resort, located in Maryland, United States. This acquisition, valued at approximately US$56.1 million, was officially finalized on July 25, 2023.
JamesTheSpirited It's frustrating to see my state lose out on potential tax revenue because lawmakers are dragging their feet on legalizing sports betting. If other states can do it successfully, why can’t we?
ChristopherTheRadiant This is a huge step for Yggdrasil! Their games are always top-notch, and I can’t wait to see how they perform in the North American market. Hopefully, this means more exciting titles coming our way soon.
ElizabethTheWhimsical The proposed online casino license feels like a cash grab with those high fees and low RTP for slots. If I’m going to take a gamble, I’d rather do it in a crypto casino where the odds are better.
RonaldTheVibrant If Kick buys TikTok, it’s going to be a disaster for younger users. The last thing kids need is to be exposed to crypto gambling ads disguised as entertainment. We need stricter regulations on these platforms.
LauraTheMysterious It’s good to see brands like Stake.com expanding in Latin America, but I’m concerned about the growing trend of underage viewers tuning in to these stake game streams. We need stricter regulations to protect kids from getting exposed to gambling content.
KarenTheOptimistic I've been playing for a week now, and I'm especially pleased with the mechanics with dragons. True, my RTP seems to be lower, but it still flies normally
LisaTheResilient Yeah, screw this NO Limit city ... I've been riding for 3 months - nothing worthwhile has ever happened
markcampbell4r This sounds like a PR stunt more than an actual initiative to reward genuine streamers. With the history of manipulated outcomes in advertising, it's hard to trust the authenticity of these so-called 'max wins.' Are we really celebrating skill or just orchestrated hype?
AllenLaura1 This partnership sounds like a game-changer! GGPoker and Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto teaming up is huge news for poker enthusiasts in Ontario. Can't wait to see the upgraded poker room and experience those WSOP tournaments!
NancyTheHarmonious This fine serves as a strong reminder that operators must prioritize social responsibility and anti-money laundering measures. It's good to see the Gambling Commission taking action to protect players and uphold industry standards.
MartinezBetty Consider elaborating on what specific types of "enhanced gaming experiences" might be envisioned to give readers a clearer picture of the possibilities.
lisajohnson0h Haters can go to hell
SusanTheUnique Play'n GO keeps expanding, but it seems like their focus is more on growth than providing fair gameplay. With RTPs this low, it's hard to see how anyone can actually win. I’ll be staying away from these games in Michigan!
ChristopherTheXtraordinary It's worrying to think that Denmark’s gaming streamers could shift towards promoting casinos, especially with younger audiences in mind. Gambling content has no place in platforms where minors are involved.