#London #United Kingdom #Q1 2026 #Brightstar Lottery #NYSE BRSL

Brightstar Lottery PLC Reports Financial Results for Q1 2026

Brightstar Lottery PLC, a global leader in lottery operations, recently announced its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2026. The report revealed a 1% increase in revenue, amounting to $587 million, compared to $583 million in the prior year. This growth was largely driven by strong performances in Italy and a favorable sales mix in the U.S., supplemented by benefits from foreign currency translation.

Highlights from the Financial Report

Revenue and Profit Growth

In the first quarter, the company recorded an income from continuing operations of $63 million, a significant jump from $8 million in the previous year. This shift indicates a heightened operational efficiency as the company's management emphasized disciplined execution of strategic priorities.

• - Adjusted EBITDA rose by 15%, totaling $287 million, reflecting effective cost management and increased revenue flow-through. The adjusted earnings per share saw a remarkable increase to $0.14, up from $0.09.

Performance Breakdown

The increased revenue can be attributed to several factors:

• - Italy's Market Strength: The company reported a 3.1% increase in same-store sales in Italy, showcasing the effectiveness of targeted strategies that appeal to local player preferences.
• - U.S. Sales Mix: A positive shift in the sales mix in the U.S. market contributed to revenue growth, enhancing the overall profitability of operations.
• - Foreign Currency Gains: Favorable exchange rates provided an additional boost, enhancing reported figures despite underlying revenues reflecting a more modest increase when assessed in constant currency.

Despite these gains, the company did experience some challenges:

• - Higher service revenue amortization connected to Italy Lotto licenses affected the bottom line.
• - Transition costs from service contracts in the U.K. also presented a financial strain.

Strategic Investments

Brightstar remains committed to long-term growth. The management announced a deployment of over $70 million in shareholder returns during Q1, reinforcing investor confidence in the company’s cash flow sustainability and growth trajectory. Furthermore, the company maintained a disciplined approach to spending while investing in growth opportunities, ensuring they balance operational costs with strategic initiatives.

CFO Max Chiara highlighted, “We are focused on our OPtiMa cost savings initiatives while also funding key growth investments. Maintaining a strong balance sheet with historically low net debt leverage supports our capital allocation plans.”

Outlook

Looking ahead, Brightstar affirms its expectations for full-year performance, targeting revenues between $2.50 billion and $2.55 billion, along with an adjusted EBITDA of $1.16 billion to $1.19 billion. The company continues to anticipate more than 5% organic growth, underpinned by ongoing operational efficiencies and strategic expansions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Brightstar Lottery PLC's Q1 2026 report reflects robust growth and a solid commitment to enhancing shareholder value. Their strategies in managing operational costs while investing for future growth have placed them in a strong position to capitalize on expanding market opportunities. With a steadfast outlook for the remainder of the year and an unyielding commitment to transparency and responsibility, Brightstar is well-equipped to tackle future challenges and leverage its market presence effectively.

To hear more about the company’s financial performance, interested parties can access the conference call and webcast hosted by the management team.

For ongoing updates about Brightstar Lottery PLC, visit their corporate website at www.brightstarlottery.com.