Gaming device maker Shufle Master Inc. has reported a 23% rise in fiscal Q2 profit and its best quarterly revenue to date. Revenues came in at $66m (+10%), just beating analysts’ projections. Broken down by segment, utility revenues were up 30%, proprietary table games up 13%, electronic gaming machines rose 21% while electronic table systems was the lone bummer, falling 42%. Earnings rose 21% – or 43%, if you subtract expenses related to the acquisition of online poker network Ongame – resulting in a net profit of $9.7m, which may help pay for the company’s new Las Vegas offices. Despite the positive performance, longtime board member David Lopez has announced his departure to become president of Las Vegas-based casino ATM/credit outfit Global Cash Access Holdings Inc.
Shuffle Master rival WMS Gaming Inc. has extended its global technology agreement with gaming solutions supplier FutureLogic Inc. The WMS Industries subsidiary runs JackpotParty.com’s online casino as well as the Lucky Cruise social slot Facebook app, for which FutureLogic provides Gen3 Evolution and Gen2 Universal printers. WMS exec Michael Rutz said FutureLogic had, over the past two years of their working relationship, “demonstrated a consistent ability to innovate as well as establishing a leadership position in network-enabled peripherals.”
Two other rivals – Bally Technologies and International Game Technology – will have their applications for Nevada online poker licenses considered at state Gaming Control Board hearings this week. Both companies are looking to provide the digital backbone for an online poker site, so long as they can partner up with one of Nevada’s existing gaming license holders. (Shuffle Master and WMS have also submitted applications.) The hearings, set for Wednesday and Thursday, will also consider William Hill’s suitability to acquire local sportsbook operations.
