-----BEGIN PRIVACY-ENHANCED MESSAGE----- Proc-Type: 2001,MIC-CLEAR Originator-Name: webmaster@www.sec.gov Originator-Key-Asymmetric: MFgwCgYEVQgBAQICAf8DSgAwRwJAW2sNKK9AVtBzYZmr6aGjlWyK3XmZv3dTINen TWSM7vrzLADbmYQaionwg5sDW3P6oaM5D3tdezXMm7z1T+B+twIDAQAB MIC-Info: RSA-MD5,RSA, V8QnjpAXj4RFtUmN9tasVV0E21altaxMoY1jb3XRekP4dkWLQDQ3ei/THw0abqx9 SD+gNuPf3XEk7W1bHs7miQ== 0001193125-10-267151.txt : 20101123 0001193125-10-267151.hdr.sgml : 20101123 20101123105152 ACCESSION NUMBER: 0001193125-10-267151 CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE: 8-K PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT: 2 CONFORMED PERIOD OF REPORT: 20101123 ITEM INFORMATION: Results of Operations and Financial Condition ITEM INFORMATION: Financial Statements and Exhibits FILED AS OF DATE: 20101123 DATE AS OF CHANGE: 20101123 FILER: COMPANY DATA: COMPANY CONFORMED NAME: MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY CENTRAL INDEX KEY: 0001005276 STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION: SERVICES-MEMBERSHIP SPORTS & RECREATION CLUBS [7997] IRS NUMBER: 061436334 FISCAL YEAR END: 0930 FILING VALUES: FORM TYPE: 8-K SEC ACT: 1934 Act SEC FILE NUMBER: 033-80655 FILM NUMBER: 101210661 BUSINESS ADDRESS: STREET 1: ONE MOHEGAN SUN BOULEVARD CITY: UNCASVILLE STATE: CT ZIP: 06382 BUSINESS PHONE: 860-862-8000 8-K 1 d8k.htm FORM 8-K Form 8-K

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM 8-K

 

 

CURRENT REPORT

Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the

Securities Exchange Act of 1934

Date of report (Date of earliest event reported): November 23, 2010

 

 

MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

 

Not Applicable   033-80655   06-1436334

(State or other jurisdiction

of incorporation)

 

(Commission

File Number)

 

(IRS Employer

Identification No.)

One Mohegan Sun Boulevard, Uncasville, CT   06382
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)

(860) 862-8000

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Not Applicable

(Former name or former address, if changed since last report)

 

 

Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions:

 

¨ Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425)

 

¨ Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12)

 

¨ Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))

 

¨ Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c))

 

 

 


 

Section 2 Financial Information

 

Item 2.02 Results of Operations and Financial Condition.

The Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (the “Authority”) today issued a press release announcing its operating results for the fourth fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2010. A copy of the press release is attached hereto as Exhibit 99.1. The press release and related information also may be found on the Authority’s website at www.mtga.com, under “Investor Relations/Financial News.”

The information, including the exhibit attached hereto, in this Current Report is being furnished and shall not be deemed “filed” for the purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or otherwise subject to the liabilities of that Section. The information in this Current Report shall not be incorporated by reference into any registration statement or other document pursuant to the Securities Act of 1933, except as otherwise expressly stated in such filing.

 

Section 9 Financial Statements and Exhibits

 

Item 9.01 Financial Statements and Exhibits.

(d) Exhibits

The following exhibit is furnished as part of this Current Report:

 

99.1 Press Release of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, dated November 23, 2010.


SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.

 

  MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY
Date: November 23, 2010   By:   /s/ Bruce S. Bozsum
    Bruce S. Bozsum
    Chairman, Management Board


Exhibit Index

 

Exhibit
No.

 

Description

99.1   Press Release of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, dated November 23, 2010.
EX-99.1 2 dex991.htm PRESS RELEASE Press Release

Exhibit 99.1

MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY ANNOUNCES

FOURTH QUARTER FISCAL 2010 OPERATING RESULTS

Uncasville, Connecticut, November 23, 2010 – The Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, or the Authority, announced today its operating results for the fourth fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2010. The Authority is an instrumentality of the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut, or the Tribe, and the owner and operator of a gaming and entertainment complex located in Uncasville, Connecticut, known as Mohegan Sun, and a gaming and entertainment facility located in Plains Township, Pennsylvania, known as Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs.

Consolidated operating results and significant events for the fourth quarter ended September 30, 2010:

 

 

Adjusted EBITDA, a non-GAAP measure described below, of $73.1 million, a 10.7% decrease from the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009. The decline in Adjusted EBITDA reflects the impact of a credit received in connection with an agreement reached with the State of Connecticut in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009, as further discussed below.

 

 

Net loss attributable to the Authority of $26.3 million compared to net income attributable to the Authority of $66.4 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009. Net loss attributable to the Authority reflects an impairment charge related to the suspended elements of Project Horizon, a lower non-cash relinquishment liability reassessment credit and severance charges resulting from a workforce reduction, as further discussed below.

 

 

Income from operations of $5.3 million, a 94.7% decrease from the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009. The decline in income from operations also was the result of the impairment charge, lower non-cash relinquishment liability reassessment credit and severance charges, as further discussed below.

 

 

Net revenues of $373.8 million, a 2.4% increase over the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009.

 

 

Gaming revenues of $336.4 million, a 1.7% increase over the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009.

 

 

Gross slot revenues of $253.2 million, a 0.6% decrease from the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009.

 

 

Table games revenues of $80.1 million, a 10.6% increase over the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009.

 

 

Non-gaming revenues of $72.1 million, a 9.5% increase over the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009.

 

 

Successfully opened table game and poker operations at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs on July 13, 2010.

The decline in consolidated Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter ended September 30, 2010 reflects the impact of a $5.7 million credit in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009 resulting from an agreement reached with the State of Connecticut regarding the treatment of contribution payments on the Authority’s free promotional slot play program. The credit had the effect of reducing operating costs and expenses and increasing Adjusted EBITDA in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009.

Consolidated net loss attributable to the Authority for the quarter ended September 30, 2010 primarily resulted from a $58.1 million impairment charge related to the suspended elements of Project Horizon. Consolidated net loss attributable to the Authority also reflects a non-cash relinquishment liability reassessment credit of $26.5 million during the quarter ended September 30, 2010 compared to a credit of $45.7 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009. The non-cash relinquishment liability reassessment credits resulted from reductions in Mohegan Sun’s projected revenues over the remaining relinquishment period compared to previously estimated amounts. Additionally, consolidated net loss attributable to the Authority reflects $9.9 million in severance charges resulting from a workforce reduction initiative implemented during the quarter.

“Despite the decline in Adjusted EBITDA, we did experience encouraging trends during the quarter, including improved table games results at Mohegan Sun and stabilizing slot revenues at both properties,” said Mitchell Grossinger Etess,


Chief Executive Officer of the Authority. “In addition, we took significant steps towards streamlining our operations. While these actions were extremely difficult, they were necessary given current market and business conditions, and will position us to operate more efficiently, while maintaining our excellent guest service, product and hospitality experience.”

Mohegan Sun

Operating results (in thousands, unaudited):

 

     For the Three Months Ended  
     September  30,
2010
     September  30,
2009
     Variance     Percentage
Variance
 

Adjusted EBITDA

   $ 65,262       $ 73,649       $ (8,387     (11.4 %) 

Income from operations

   $ 4,636       $ 100,306       $ (95,670     (95.4 %) 

Operating costs and expenses

   $ 293,789       $ 198,302       $ 95,487        48.2

Net revenues

   $ 298,425       $ 298,608       $ (183     (0.1 %) 

Gaming revenues

   $ 265,155       $ 267,991       $ (2,836     (1.1 %) 

Non-gaming revenues

   $ 64,531       $ 59,722       $ 4,809        8.1

The decline in Adjusted EBITDA primarily reflects the impact of the $5.7 million credit received in connection with the agreement reached with the State of Connecticut in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009. Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter ended September 30, 2010 also reflects lower slot revenues and higher casino marketing and promotional expenses in response to aggressive promotional programs by competitors, including increased use of free promotional slot plays. As a result, Adjusted EBITDA margin declined by 280 basis points to 21.9% for the quarter ended September 30, 2010 from 24.7% in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009.

The decrease in income from operations was primarily due to the $58.1 million impairment charge related to the suspended elements of Project Horizon and the reduction in the non-cash relinquishment liability reassessment credit. Income from operations for the quarter ended September 30, 2010 also reflects $9.8 million in severance charges resulting from the workforce reduction initiative implemented during the quarter and the impact of the credit received in connection with the agreement reached with the State of Connecticut in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009.

Selected gaming data (in thousands, except where noted, unaudited):

 

     For the Three Months Ended  
     September  30,
2010
    September  30,
2009
    Variance     Percentage
Variance
 

Slots:

        

Handle

   $ 2,481,429      $ 2,406,444      $ 74,985        3.1

Gross revenues

   $ 194,980      $ 197,483      $ (2,503     (1.3 %) 

Net revenues

   $ 186,844      $ 190,542      $ (3,698     (1.9 %) 

Free promotional slot plays (1)

   $ 16,205      $ 10,190      $ 6,015        59.0

Weighted average number of machines (in units)

     6,405        6,742        (337     (5.0 %) 

Hold percentage (gross)

     7.9     8.2     (0.3 %)      (3.7 %) 

Win per unit per day (gross) (in dollars)

   $ 331      $ 318      $ 13        4.1

Table games:

        

Drop

   $ 522,042      $ 497,920      $ 24,122        4.8

Revenues

   $ 73,023      $ 72,436      $ 587        0.8

Weighted average number of games (in units)

     332        323        9        2.8

Hold percentage (2)

     14.0     14.6     (0.6 %)      (4.1 %) 

Win per unit per day (in dollars)

   $ 2,390      $ 2,435      $ (45     (1.8 %) 

Poker:

        

Revenues

   $ 3,130      $ 2,890      $ 240        8.3

Weighted average number of tables (in units)

     42        42        —          —     

Revenue per unit per day (in dollars)

   $ 810      $ 748      $ 62        8.3

 

(1) Free promotional slot plays are included in slot handle, but not reflected in slot revenues.
(2) Table games hold percentage is relatively predictable over longer periods of time, but can significantly fluctuate over shorter periods.


Information related to slot revenues within Mohegan Sun’s market area (in thousands, except where noted, unaudited):

 

     For the Three Months Ended  
     September 30,
2010
    September 30,
2009
    Variance     Percentage
Variance
 

Northeast slot gaming market (1) (2):

        

Gross revenues

   $ 685,942      $ 662,124      $ 23,818        3.6

Mohegan Sun win market share

     30.8     31.4     (0.6 %)      (1.9 %) 

Mohegan Sun win efficiency

     117.7     120.3     (2.6 %)      (2.2 %) 

Connecticut slot gaming market (3):

        

Gross revenues

   $ 374,273      $ 378,748      $ (4,475     (1.2 %) 

Free promotional slot plays

   $ 40,782      $ 26,707      $ 14,075        52.7

Mohegan Sun win market share

     52.1     52.1     —          —     

Mohegan Sun win efficiency

     107.9     110.6     (2.7 %)      (2.4 %) 

 

(1) Northeast slot gaming market consists of Mohegan Sun, Foxwoods Resort Casino, Twin River, Newport Grand and Empire City.
(2) Includes free promotional slot plays. Free promotional slot plays are included in slot handle, but not reflected in slot revenues.
(3) Connecticut slot gaming market consists of Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods Resort Casino.

The decline in slot revenues at Mohegan Sun reflects the continued weakness in consumer spending and aggressive promotional programs by competitors, including increased use of free promotional slot plays.

The increase in table games revenues was attributable to higher table games drop, partially offset by lower table games hold percentage compared to the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009.

Non-gaming data (in thousands, except where noted, unaudited):

 

     For the Three Months Ended  
     September 30,
2010
    September 30,
2009
    Variance     Percentage
Variance
 

Food and beverage:

        

Revenues

   $ 21,119      $ 19,773      $ 1,346        6.8

Meals served

     1,140        1,135        5        0.4

Average price per meal served (in dollars)

   $ 15.18      $ 14.43      $ 0.75        5.2

Hotel:

        

Revenues

   $ 10,386      $ 9,988      $ 398        4.0

Rooms occupied

     105        104        1        1.0

Occupancy rate

     97.8     96.7     1.1     1.1

Average daily room rate (in dollars)

   $ 95      $ 94      $ 1        1.1

Revenue per available room (in dollars)

   $ 93      $ 91      $ 2        2.2

Retail, entertainment and other:

        

Revenues

   $ 33,026      $ 29,961      $ 3,065        10.2

Arena events (in events)

     40        39        1        2.6

Arena tickets

     281        258        23        8.9

Average price per Arena ticket (in dollars)

   $ 52.37      $ 43.22      $ 9.15        21.2

The growth in food and beverage revenues was primarily attributable to a $911,000 increase in food revenues resulting from the increase in the average price per meal served. The increase in the average price per meal served reflects the impact of new offerings at the Sunburst Buffet during the quarter and the November 2009 opening of Bar Americain. Food and beverage revenues also were positively impacted by an increase in the number of headliner shows held at the Mohegan Sun Arena compared to the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009.

The growth in hotel revenues resulted from the modest increases in the average daily room and occupancy rates. Despite these results, hotel revenues continue to be impacted by highly competitive room offers from competitors in the Connecticut and Atlantic City markets. During the quarter, Mohegan Sun successfully implemented a new hotel revenue management system.

The increase in retail, entertainment and other revenues was primarily due to a $3.7 million increase in entertainment revenues. The growth in entertainment revenues resulted from the increases in the average price per Arena ticket and the number of Arena tickets due to a significant increase in headliner shows held at the Mohegan Sun Arena compared to the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009.


Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs

Operating results (in thousands, unaudited):

 

     For the Three Months Ended  
     September 30,
2010
     September 30,
2009
     Variance      Percentage
Variance
 

Adjusted EBITDA

   $ 12,208       $ 11,795       $ 413         3.5

Income from operations

   $ 5,856       $ 4,762       $ 1,094         23.0

Operating costs and expenses

   $ 69,496       $ 61,534       $ 7,962         12.9

Net revenues

   $ 75,352       $ 66,296       $ 9,056         13.7

Gaming revenues

   $ 71,282       $ 62,903       $ 8,379         13.3

Non-gaming revenues

   $ 7,602       $ 6,126       $ 1,476         24.1

The increases in Adjusted EBITDA and income from operations were primarily attributable to the addition of table game and poker revenues from the opening of table game and poker operations at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs on July 13, 2010. Higher slot and non-gaming revenues also contributed to the increases in Adjusted EBITDA and income from operations. These results were partially offset by increased operating costs and expenses resulting from the opening of table game and poker operations, including higher than expected post-opening staffing costs and operating expenses. Adjusted EBITDA and income from operations also were impacted by lower than anticipated table games hold percentage. Adjusted EBITDA margin declined by 160 basis points to 16.2% for the quarter ended September 30, 2010 from 17.8% in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009.

Selected gaming data (in thousands, except where noted, unaudited):

 

     For the Three Months Ended  
     September 30,
2010
    September 30,
2009
    Variance     Percentage
Variance
 

Slots:

        

Handle

   $ 725,180      $ 706,939      $ 18,241        2.6

Gross revenues

   $ 58,233      $ 57,300      $ 933        1.6

Net revenues

   $ 58,251      $ 57,341      $ 910        1.6

Free promotional slot plays (1)

   $ 13,410      $ 8,897      $ 4,513        50.7

Weighted average number of machines (in units)

     2,317        2,466        (149     (6.0 %) 

Hold percentage (gross)

     8.0     8.1     (0.1 %)      (1.2 %) 

Win per unit per day (gross) (in dollars)

   $ 273      $ 253      $ 20        7.9

Table games (2):

        

Drop

   $ 49,220      $ —        $ 49,220        100.0

Revenues

   $ 7,125      $ —        $ 7,125        100.0

Weighted average number of games (in units)

     57        —          57        100.0

Hold percentage (3)

     14.5     —          14.5     100.0

Win per unit per day (in dollars)

   $ 1,555      $ —        $ 1,555        100.0

Poker (2):

        

Revenues

   $ 1,029      $ —        $ 1,029        100.0

Weighted average number of tables (in units)

     17        —          17        100.0

Revenue per unit per day (in dollars)

   $ 766      $ —        $ 766        100.0

 

(1) Free promotional slot plays are included in slot handle, but not reflected in slot revenues.
(2) Table game and poker operations commenced on July 13, 2010.
(3) Table games hold percentage is relatively predictable over longer periods of time, but can significantly fluctuate over shorter periods.

Information related to slot revenues within Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs’ market area (in thousands, except where noted, unaudited):

 

     For the Three Months Ended  
     September 30,
2010
    September 30,
2009
    Variance     Percentage
Variance
 

Northeastern Pennsylvania slot gaming market (1):

        

Gross revenues

   $ 166,315      $ 157,587      $ 8,728        5.5

Free promotional slot plays (2)

   $ 52,392      $ 32,158      $ 20,234        62.9

Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs win market share

     35.0     36.4     (1.4 %)      (3.8 %) 

Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs win efficiency

     117.8     117.2     0.6     0.5

 

(1) Northeastern Pennsylvania slot gaming market consists of Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs, Mount Airy Resort Casino and Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem.
(2) Free promotional slot plays are included in slot handle, but not reflected in slot revenues.


Slot revenues at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs were positively impacted by the opening of table game and poker operations during the quarter, which is believed to have resulted in increased patron visitation to the facility. The increase in win per unit per day was primarily the result of a temporary reduction in the weighted average number of slot machines on the gaming floor to accommodate the opening of table game and poker operations.

Non-gaming revenues (in thousands, except where noted, unaudited):

 

     For the Three Months Ended  
     September 30,
2010
     September 30,
2009
     Variance     Percentage
Variance
 

Food and beverage:

          

Revenues

   $ 5,391       $ 4,317       $ 1,074        24.9

Meals served

     213         198         15        7.6

Average price per meal served (in dollars)

   $ 11.14       $ 11.28       $ (0.14     (1.2 %) 

Retail, entertainment and other:

          

Revenues

   $ 2,211       $ 1,808       $ 403        22.3

The growth in food and beverage revenues was primarily attributable to higher beverage revenues resulting from increased patron visitation to the facility due to the opening of table game and poker operations.

The increase in retail, entertainment and other revenues was primarily attributable to higher rental income.

Corporate

Total Corporate expenses (in thousands, unaudited):

 

     For the Three Months Ended  
     September 30,
2010
     September 30,
2009
     Variance      Percentage
Variance
 

Total Corporate expenses (1)

   $ 5,179       $ 3,877       $ 1,302         33.6

 

(1) Include severance charges and depreciation

The increase in total Corporate expenses primarily resulted from higher professional and consulting expenditures related to gaming diversification efforts and financing advisory services.

Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority Property Information

 

     Net Revenues      Adjusted EBITDA  
(in thousands, unaudited)    For the Three Months Ended      For the Three Months Ended  
     September 30,
2010
     September 30,
2009
     September 30,
2010
    September 30,
2009
 

Mohegan Sun

   $ 298,425       $ 298,608       $ 65,262      $ 73,649   

Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs

     75,352         66,296         12,208        11,795   

Corporate

     —           —           (4,392     (3,605
                                  

Total

   $ 373,777       $ 364,904       $ 73,078      $ 81,839   
                                  
     Net Revenues      Adjusted EBITDA  
(in thousands, unaudited)    For the Fiscal Years Ended      For the Fiscal Years Ended  
     September 30,
2010
     September 30,
2009
     September 30,
2010
    September 30,
2009
 

Mohegan Sun

   $ 1,157,419       $ 1,203,765       $ 258,376      $ 279,594   

Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs

     264,543         251,352         40,644        38,262   

Corporate

     —           —           (16,002     (15,235
                                  

Total

   $ 1,421,962       $ 1,455,117       $ 283,018      $ 302,621   
                                  


Liquidity, Cost Containment Initiatives, Relinquishment Liability Reassessment, Capital Spending and Capital Resources

Liquidity

As of September 30, 2010, the Authority held cash and cash equivalents of $63.9 million compared to $64.7 million as of September 30, 2009. As of September 30, 2010, there was $527.0 million drawn on the Authority’s $675.0 million bank credit facility. As of September 30, 2010, the amount under letters of credit issued pursuant to the Authority’s bank credit facility totaled $3.7 million, of which no amounts were drawn. Inclusive of letters of credit, which reduce borrowing availability under the bank credit facility, and after taking into account restrictive financial covenants under the bank credit facility and the Authority’s line of credit and note indentures, the Authority had approximately $31.4 million of borrowing capacity under the bank credit facility as of September 30, 2010. The Authority’s total debt, including capital leases, was approximately $1.64 billion as of September 30, 2010 and 2009.

Interest Expense

Interest expense increased by $7.1 million, or 6.5%, to $116.8 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2010 compared to $109.7 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2009. The increase in interest expense was primarily due to higher weighted average outstanding debt and interest rate, combined with lower capitalized interest. The weighted average outstanding debt was $1.67 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2010 compared to $1.65 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2009. The increase in weighted average outstanding debt was primarily due to additional borrowings on the bank credit facility to fund capital expenditures and to pay a table games authorization fee to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in connection with the opening of table games at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs, as further discussed below. The weighted average interest rate was 7.0% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2010 compared to 6.7% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2009. Capitalized interest was $66,000 for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2010 compared to $1.1 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2009.

Cost Containment Initiatives

In September 2010, the Authority implemented additional cost containment initiatives in an effort to better align operating costs with market and business conditions, including the reduction of its workforce in Uncasville, Connecticut by approximately 475 positions. In connection with this workforce reduction, the Authority recorded $9.9 million in severance charges during the quarter.

In addition, the Authority implemented a number of other cost containment initiatives, including certain modifications to employee medical benefits, consolidation of certain Mohegan Sun-owned food and beverage outlets and replacement of certain other Mohegan Sun-owned food and beverage outlets with third-party operators. The Authority estimates that consolidated labor and operating cost savings in connection with these initiatives for fiscal year 2011 will approximate $30.0 million.

Relinquishment Liability Reassessment

Pursuant to a relinquishment agreement with Trading Cove Associates, or TCA, the Authority is required to make certain payments to TCA, determined as a percentage of revenues generated by Mohegan Sun, through the period ending December 31, 2014. A liability for these payments was established based on the estimated present value of Mohegan Sun’s estimated future revenues and is periodically reassessed. Based on recent operating trends, the Authority estimates that Mohegan Sun’s projected revenues over the remaining relinquishment period will decrease from previously estimated amounts. Accordingly, the Authority recorded a non-cash relinquishment liability credit of $26.5 million during the quarter ended September 30, 2010. As of September 30, 2010 and 2009, the relinquishment liability was $230.7 million and $298.4 million, respectively.


Capital Spending

The following table presents data related to capital expenditures for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2010 and 2011:

 

     Capital Expenditures  
(in millions, excluding capitalized interest)    Fiscal Year Ended
September 30, 2010
    Forecasted
Fiscal Year 2011
 

Mohegan Sun:

    

Maintenance

   $ 16.9      $ 24.1   

Development

     5.5        19.7   

Expansion - Project Horizon

     4.7        1.5   
                

Subtotal

     27.1        45.3   

Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs:

    

Maintenance

     2.2        5.5   

Development

     0.2        0.5   

Expansion - Project Sunrise (1)

     (1.2     —     

Expansion - Table Games (2)

     15.2        —     
                

Subtotal

     16.4        6.0   
                

Total

   $ 43.5      $ 51.3   
                

 

(1) Represents adjustments to the final cost for Project Sunrise, Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs Phase II gaming and entertainment facility.
(2) Exclusive of the one-time table games operation fee and pre-opening costs and expenses.

Mohegan Sun - Project Horizon

Project Horizon, Mohegan Sun’s second major expansion, was initially planned to include four major components: Sunrise Square, Casino of the Wind, Property Infrastructure, including a new parking garage, additional surface parking lots, site development and road improvements, and the Earth Expansion, including a new hotel and related retail areas, as well as improvements to the existing Winter Parking Garage and Winter Entrance. The Sunrise Square, Casino of the Wind, Winter Parking Garage and infrastructure improvements elements of Project Horizon were completed.

In September 2008, the Authority suspended the hotel, retail and parking garage elements of Project Horizon due to a slowdown in business volumes and uncertainties in the financial markets. The costs incurred for the suspended elements related to excavation and foundation work for the planned podium and hotel tower, as well as professional fees for design and architectural work. During the quarter ended September 30, 2010, the Authority re-evaluated its options with respect to the new hotel element of the project, and based on a modified plan, which encompasses a smaller hotel to be located closer to the existing hotel, determined that certain assets did not have any future benefit to the Authority. Accordingly, the Authority recorded a $58.1 million impairment charge during the quarter ended September 30, 2010. As of September 30, 2010, assets related to the suspended elements totaled $8.3 million, including $187,000 of capitalized interest, and were included within construction in process. The Authority continues to evaluate its options with respect to the development of the new hotel; however, it can provide no assurance as to if or when this element will resume.

Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs—Introduction of Table Games

On July 13, 2010, Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs opened its table game and poker operations, which currently feature 66 table games, including blackjack, roulette, mini-baccarat, three card poker, let it ride and craps, an 18-table poker room and a bar. Additional non-smoking sections and a high-limit gaming area also were added. The total cost to add table game and poker operations was approximately $34.5 million, inclusive of a $16.5 million one-time table games authorization fee, $15.2 million in renovation costs and $2.8 million in pre-opening costs and expenses.

Capital Resources

Distributions to the Tribe totaled $61.5 million and $71.5 million for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

Management believes that existing cash balances, financing arrangements and operating cash flows will provide the Authority with sufficient resources to meet its existing debt obligations, relinquishment payments, foreseeable capital expenditure requirements and distributions to the Tribe for at least the next twelve months. However, the Authority can provide no assurance in this regard. Any future investments in Mohegan Sun and Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs are anticipated to be funded through a combination of operating cash flows and draws under the bank credit facility.


Conference Call

The Authority will host a conference call and simultaneous webcast regarding its fourth quarter fiscal 2010 operating results on Tuesday, November 23, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. (Eastern Standard Time).

Those interested in participating in the call should dial as follows:

(877) 756-4274

(706) 643-0107 (International)

Conference ID: 25896168

Please call five minutes in advance to ensure that you are connected prior to the initiation of the call. Questions and answers will be reserved for call-in analysts and investors.

Parties who want to listen to the live conference call on the Internet may do so through a web link on the Authority’s website at www.mtga.com, under the “Investor Relations/Financial News” section. Interested parties also may listen to a taped replay of the entire conference call commencing two hours after the call’s completion on Tuesday, November 23, 2010. This replay will run through December 7, 2010.

The access number for a taped replay of the conference call is as follows:

(800) 642-1687

(706) 645-9291 (International)

Conference ID: 25896168

A transcript will be available on the Authority’s website for a period of 90 days following the conference call.

About the Authority

The Authority is an instrumentality of the Tribe, a federally-recognized Indian tribe with an approximately 507-acre reservation situated in Southeastern Connecticut, adjacent to Uncasville, Connecticut. The Authority has been granted the exclusive power to conduct and regulate gaming activities on the existing reservation of the Tribe, including the operation of Mohegan Sun, a gaming and entertainment complex situated on a 185-acre site on the Tribe’s reservation. Through its subsidiary, Downs Racing, the Authority also owns and operates Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs, a gaming and entertainment facility situated on a 400-acre site in Plains Township, Pennsylvania, and several off-track wagering facilities located elsewhere in Pennsylvania.

The Tribe’s gaming operation at Mohegan Sun is one of only two legally authorized gaming operations in New England offering traditional slot machines and table games. Mohegan Sun currently operates in an approximately 3.1 million square-foot facility, which includes Casino of the Earth, Casino of the Sky, Casino of the Wind, 100,000 square feet of retail space, including The Shops at Mohegan Sun, a 10,000-seat Mohegan Sun Arena, a 350-seat Cabaret Theatre, 100,000 square feet of meeting and convention space and the approximately 1,200-room luxury Sky Hotel Tower. Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs offers approximately 2,500 slot machines, 66 table games, an 18-table poker room, several dining and retail options and a bus passenger lounge. More information about the Authority and its properties can be obtained by visiting www.mohegansun.com, www.mohegansunpocono.com or www.mtga.com.

Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Some information included in this press release may contain 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. These statements can sometimes be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “may,” “will,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect” or “intend” and similar expressions. Such forward-looking information may involve important risks and uncertainties that could significantly affect anticipated results in the future and, accordingly, such results may differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements made by or on behalf of the Authority. Information concerning potential factors that could affect the Authority’s financial results is included in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2009, as well as in the Authority’s other reports and filings with the Securities and Exchange


Commission. Any forward-looking statements included in this press release are made only as of the date of this release. The Authority does not undertake any obligation to update or supplement any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances. The Authority cannot assure that projected results or events will be achieved or will occur.


MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (LOSS)

(in thousands)

(unaudited)

 

     For the
Three Months Ended
September 30, 2010
    For the
Three Months Ended
September 30, 2009
    For the
Fiscal Year Ended
September 30, 2010
    For the
Fiscal Year Ended
September 30, 2009
 

Revenues:

        

Gaming

   $ 336,437      $ 330,894      $ 1,286,518      $ 1,317,341   

Food and beverage

     26,510        24,090        96,588        93,105   

Hotel

     10,386        9,988        38,261        39,567   

Retail, entertainment and other

     35,237        31,769        118,259        122,701   
                                

Gross revenues

     408,570        396,741        1,539,626        1,572,714   

Less - Promotional allowances

     (34,793     (31,837     (117,664     (117,597
                                

Net revenues

     373,777        364,904        1,421,962        1,455,117   
                                

Operating costs and expenses:

        

Gaming

     216,930        203,268        820,274        833,088   

Food and beverage

     11,634        10,522        45,345        42,720   

Hotel

     3,189        3,280        13,770        13,513   

Retail, entertainment and other

     11,006        9,013        37,454        42,290   

Advertising, general and administrative

     53,548        53,377        206,099        205,650   

Corporate expenses

     4,967        3,857        18,260        17,227   

Pre-opening costs and expenses

     603        —          2,782        282   

Depreciation and amortization

     25,155        26,074        97,289        103,279   

Impairment of Project Horizon

     58,079        —          58,079        —     

Severance charges

     9,865        —          9,865        —     

Relinquishment liability reassessment

     (26,512     (45,678     (26,512     (45,678
                                

Total operating costs and expenses

     368,464        263,713        1,282,705        1,212,371   
                                

Income from operations

     5,313        101,191        139,257        242,746   
                                

Other income (expense):

        

Accretion of discount to the relinquishment liability

     (3,857     (5,107     (15,426     (20,425

Interest income

     756        658        2,755        3,912   

Interest expense, net of capitalized interest

     (29,626     (25,859     (116,784     (109,689

Gain (loss) on early extinguishment of debt

     —          —          (1,584     8,466   

Write-off of debt issuance costs

     —          —          (338     —     

Other income (expense), net

     502        (4,709     (426     (7,658
                                

Total other expense

     (32,225     (35,017     (131,803     (125,394
                                

Net income (loss)

     (26,912     66,174        7,454        117,352   

Loss attributable to non-controlling interests

     575        252        2,258        1,992   
                                

Net income (loss) attributable to Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority

   $ (26,337   $ 66,426      $ 9,712      $ 119,344   
                                


MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

CONSOLIDATED SELECTED FINANCIAL INFORMATION

(in thousands)

(unaudited)

 

     For the Three Months Ended      For the Fiscal Years Ended  
     September 30,
2010
     September 30,
2009
     September 30,
2010
     September 30,
2009
 

Operating Results:

           

Gross revenues

   $ 408,570       $ 396,741       $ 1,539,626       $ 1,572,714   

Net revenues

   $ 373,777       $ 364,904       $ 1,421,962       $ 1,455,117   

Income from operations

   $ 5,313       $ 101,191       $ 139,257       $ 242,746   

Other Data:

           

Adjusted EBITDA

   $ 73,078       $ 81,839       $ 283,018       $ 302,621   

Capital expenditures

   $ 14,984       $ 22,903       $ 43,544       $ 93,892   

Cash interest paid

   $ 27,433       $ 38,477       $ 99,072       $ 106,008   
                   September 30,
2010
     September 30,
2009
 

Balance Sheet Data:

           

Cash and cash equivalents

         $ 63,897       $ 64,664   

Debt, including capital leases

         $ 1,637,549       $ 1,636,564   

MOHEGAN SUN

SUPPLEMENTAL DATA - OPERATING STATISTICS

(unaudited)

 

     For the Three Months Ended     For the Fiscal Years Ended  
     September 30,
2010
    September 30,
2009
    September 30,
2010
    September 30,
2009
 

Adjusted EBITDA:

        

Adjusted EBITDA (in thousands)

   $ 65,262      $ 73,649      $ 258,376      $ 279,594   

Adjusted EBITDA margin

     21.9     24.7     22.3     23.2

Capital expenditures (in thousands)

   $ 10,330      $ 22,248      $ 27,165      $ 91,051   

Capitalized interest (in thousands)

   $ —        $ 52      $ 21      $ 1,061   

Weighted average number of units:

        

Slot machines

     6,405        6,742        6,484        6,752   

Table games

     332        323        326        326   

Poker tables

     42        42        42        42   

Win per unit per day:

        

Slot machines (gross)

   $ 331      $ 318      $ 315      $ 316   

Table games

   $ 2,390      $ 2,435      $ 2,487      $ 2,573   

Poker tables

   $ 810      $ 748      $ 803      $ 781   

Hold percentage:

        

Slot machines (gross)

     7.9     8.2     8.0     8.4

Table games

     14.0     14.6     14.2     14.5

Northeast slot gaming market statistics:

        

Win market share

     30.8     31.4     31.3     31.9

Win efficiency

     117.7     120.3     120.4     123.5

Connecticut slot gaming market statistics:

        

Handle market share

     53.2     53.0     54.4     53.2

Win market share

     52.1     52.1     53.4     53.1

Handle efficiency

     110.2     112.4     114.5     115.0

Win efficiency

     107.9     110.6     112.5     114.8

Food and beverage statistics:

        

Meals served (in thousands)

     1,140        1,135        4,287        4,275   

Average price per meal served

   $ 15.18      $ 14.43      $ 14.97      $ 14.88   

Hotel statistics:

        

Rooms occupied (in thousands)

     105        104        410        409   

Occupancy rate

     97.8     96.7     95.7     95.4

Average daily room rate

   $ 95      $ 94      $ 89      $ 92   

Revenue per available room

   $ 93      $ 91      $ 86      $ 88   

Entertainment statistics:

        

Arena events (in events)

     40        39        132        124   

Arena tickets (in thousands)

     281        258        823        763   

Average price per Arena ticket

   $ 52.37      $ 43.22      $ 53.49      $ 63.63   


MOHEGAN SUN AT POCONO DOWNS

SUPPLEMENTAL DATA - OPERATING STATISTICS

(unaudited)

 

     For the Three Months Ended     For the Fiscal Years Ended  
     September 30,
2010 (1)
    September 30,
2009
    September 30,
2010 (1)
    September 30,
2009
 

Adjusted EBITDA:

        

Adjusted EBITDA (in thousands)

   $ 12,208      $ 11,795      $ 40,644      $ 38,262   

Adjusted EBITDA margin

     16.2     17.8     15.4     15.2

Capital expenditures (in thousands)

   $ 4,654      $ 655      $ 16,379      $ 2,841   

Capitalized interest (in thousands)

   $ 7      $ —        $ 45      $ —     

Weighted average number of units:

        

Slot machines

     2,317        2,466        2,356        2,470   

Table games

     57        —          57        —     

Poker tables

     17        —          17        —     

Win per unit per day:

        

Slot machines (gross)

   $ 273      $ 253      $ 260      $ 241   

Table games

   $ 1,555      $ —        $ 1,555      $ —     

Poker tables

   $ 766      $ —        $ 766      $ —     

Hold percentage:

        

Slot machines (gross)

     8.0     8.1     7.8     8.3

Table games

     14.5     —          14.5     —     

Northeastern Pennsylvania slot gaming market statistics:

        

Handle market share

     32.1     33.3     33.1     42.6

Win market share

     35.0     36.4     36.2     45.4

Handle efficiency

     107.9     107.2     110.3     104.7

Win efficiency

     117.8     117.2     120.8     111.8

Food and beverage statistics:

        

Meals served (in thousands)

     213        198        694        702   

Average price per meal served

   $ 11.14      $ 11.28      $ 11.90      $ 11.40   

 

(1) Table game and poker operations commenced on July 13, 2010.

MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

ADJUSTED EBITDA RECONCILIATIONS

(unaudited)

Reconciliations of Adjusted EBITDA to Net Income (Loss):

Reconciliations of Adjusted EBITDA to net income (loss), a financial measure determined in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, or GAAP, are shown below (in thousands):

 

     For the Three Months Ended     For the Fiscal Years Ended  
     September 30,
2010
    September 30,
2009
    September 30,
2010
    September 30,
2009
 

Adjusted EBITDA

   $ 73,078      $ 81,839      $ 283,018      $ 302,621   

Pre-opening costs and expenses

     (603     —          (2,782     (282

Depreciation and amortization

     (25,155     (26,074     (97,289     (103,279

Impairment of Project Horizon

     (58,079     —          (58,079     —     

Severance charges

     (9,865     —          (9,865     —     

Relinquishment liability reassessment

     26,512        45,678        26,512        45,678   

Loss attributable to non-controlling interests

     (575     (252     (2,258     (1,992
                                

Income from operations

     5,313        101,191        139,257        242,746   
                                

Accretion of discount to the relinquishment liability

     (3,857     (5,107     (15,426     (20,425

Interest income

     756        658        2,755        3,912   

Interest expense, net of capitalized interest

     (29,626     (25,859     (116,784     (109,689

Gain (loss) on early extinguishment of debt

     —          —          (1,584     8,466   

Write-off of debt issuance costs

     —          —          (338     —     

Other income (expense), net

     502        (4,709     (426     (7,658
                                

Net income (loss)

   $ (26,912   $ 66,174      $ 7,454      $ 117,352   
                                


Reconciliations of Income (Loss) from Operations to Adjusted EBITDA (unaudited):

Reconciliations of income (loss) from operations, a financial measure determined in accordance with GAAP, to Adjusted EBITDA, are shown below (in thousands):

 

    For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2010  
    Income (Loss)
from
Operations
    Pre-opening
Costs and
Expenses
    Depreciation
and
Amortization
    Impairment
of
Project Horizon
    Severance
Charges
    Relinquishment
Liability
Reassessment
    Loss attributable  to
Non-controlling
Interests
    Adjusted
EBITDA
 

Mohegan Sun

  $ 4,636      $ —        $ 19,229      $ 58,079      $ 9,830      $ (26,512   $ —        $ 65,262   

Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs

    5,856        603        5,749        —          —          —          —          12,208   

Corporate

    (5,179     —          177        —          35        —          575        (4,392
                                                               

Total

  $ 5,313      $ 603      $ 25,155      $ 58,079      $ 9,865      $ (26,512   $ 575      $ 73,078   
                                                               
    For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2009  
    Income (Loss)
from
Operations
    Pre-opening
Costs and
Expenses
    Depreciation
and
Amortization
    Impairment
of
Project Horizon
    Severance
Charges
    Relinquishment
Liability
Reassessment
    Loss attributable to
Non-controlling
Interests
    Adjusted
EBITDA
 

Mohegan Sun

  $ 100,306      $ —        $ 19,021      $ —        $ —        $ (45,678   $ —        $ 73,649   

Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs

    4,762        —          7,033        —          —          —          —          11,795   

Corporate

    (3,877     —          20        —          —          —          252        (3,605
                                                               

Total

  $ 101,191      $ —        $ 26,074      $ —        $ —        $ (45,678   $ 252      $ 81,839   
                                                               
    For the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2010  
    Income (Loss)
from
Operations
    Pre-opening
Costs and
Expenses
    Depreciation
and
Amortization
    Impairment
of
Project Horizon
    Severance
Charges
    Relinquishment
Liability
Reassessment
    Loss attributable to
Non-controlling
Interests
    Adjusted
EBITDA
 

Mohegan Sun

  $ 142,143      $ 42      $ 74,794      $ 58,079      $ 9,830      $ (26,512   $ —        $ 258,376   

Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs

    15,652        2,740        22,252        —          —          —          —          40,644   

Corporate

    (18,538     —          243        —          35        —          2,258        (16,002
                                                               

Total

  $ 139,257      $ 2,782      $ 97,289      $ 58,079      $ 9,865      $ (26,512   $ 2,258      $ 283,018   
                                                               
    For the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2009  
    Income (Loss)
from
Operations
    Pre-opening
Costs and
Expenses
    Depreciation
and
Amortization
    Impairment
of
Project Horizon
    Severance
Charges
    Relinquishment
Liability
Reassessment
    Loss attributable to
Non-controlling
Interests
    Adjusted
EBITDA
 

Mohegan Sun

  $ 247,678      $ 58      $ 77,536      $ —        $ —        $ (45,678   $ —        $ 279,594   

Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs

    12,378        224        25,660        —          —          —          —          38,262   

Corporate

    (17,310     —          83        —          —          —          1,992        (15,235
                                                               

Total

  $ 242,746      $ 282      $ 103,279      $ —        $ —        $ (45,678   $ 1,992      $ 302,621   
                                                               

Adjusted EBITDA Explanation:

Earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization, or EBITDA, is a commonly used measure of performance in the casino and hospitality industry. EBITDA is not a measure of performance calculated in accordance with GAAP. The Authority historically has evaluated its operating performance with the non-GAAP measure, Adjusted EBITDA, which as used in this press release, represents earnings before interest, depreciation and amortization, pre-opening costs and expenses, impairment of suspended assets of Project Horizon, severance charges resulting from a workforce reduction, reassessment and accretion of discount to the relinquishment liability, gain or loss on early extinguishment of debt, write-off of debt issuance costs, other non-operating income and expense and loss attributable to non-controlling interests.

Adjusted EBITDA provides an additional way to evaluate the Authority’s operations and, when viewed with both the Authority’s GAAP results and the reconciliations provided, the Authority believes that it provides a more complete understanding of its business than could be otherwise obtained absent this disclosure. Adjusted EBITDA is presented solely as a supplemental disclosure because: (1) the Authority believes it enhances an overall understanding of the Authority’s past and current financial performance; (2) the Authority believes it is a useful tool for investors to assess the operating performance of the business in comparison to other operators within the casino and hospitality industry since Adjusted EBITDA excludes certain items that may not be indicative of the Authority’s operating results; (3) measures that are comparable to Adjusted EBITDA are often used as an important basis for the valuation of casino and hospitality companies; and (4) the Authority uses Adjusted EBITDA internally to evaluate the performance of its operating personnel and management and as a benchmark to evaluate its operating performance in comparison to its competitors.

The use of Adjusted EBITDA has certain limitations. Adjusted EBITDA should be considered in addition to, not as a substitute for or superior to, any GAAP financial measure including net income (as an indicator of the Authority’s performance) or cash flows provided by operating activities (as an indicator of the Authority’s liquidity), nor should it be considered as an indicator of the Authority’s overall financial performance. The Authority’s calculation of Adjusted EBITDA is likely to be different from the calculation of Adjusted EBITDA or other similarly titled measurements used by other casino and hospitality companies, and therefore, comparability may be limited. Adjusted EBITDA eliminates certain


substantial recurring items from net income, such as interest, depreciation and amortization and reassessment and accretion of discount to the relinquishment liability. Each of these items has been incurred in the past, will continue to be incurred in the future and should be considered in the overall evaluation of the Authority’s results. The Authority compensates for these limitations by providing the relevant disclosure of interest, depreciation and amortization, reassessment and accretion of discount to the relinquishment liability and other items excluded in the calculation of Adjusted EBITDA, both in its reconciliations to the GAAP financial measure of net income and in its consolidated financial statements, all of which should be considered when evaluating its results. The Authority strongly encourages investors to review its financial information in its entirety and not to rely on a single financial measure.

Press Release:

Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, Uncasville, Connecticut, November 23, 2010

Contacts:

Mitchell Grossinger Etess

Chief Executive Officer

Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority

(860) 862-8000

Jeffrey E. Hartmann

Chief Operating Officer

Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority

(860) 862-8000

Leo M. Chupaska

Chief Financial Officer

Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority

(860) 862-8000

-----END PRIVACY-ENHANCED MESSAGE-----