(AsiaGameHub) –   Brightstar Lottery has released its financial results for Q1 2026, reporting steady revenue. The company also issued its FY 2026 forecasts, projecting an increase in adjusted EBITDA.

The Company Started 2026 on a Strong Note

Brightstar Lottery’s Q1 report showed revenue of $587 million for the three-month period ending March 31. This figure reflects a 1% year-over-year growth, driven by a 3.1% same-store increase in Italy and favorable mix dynamics in the US.

Additionally, Brightstar narrowed its LMA shortfall, benefited from foreign currency translation gains, and saw higher service revenue amortization linked to its Italy Lotto license.

The company’s income from continuing operations reached $63 million in Q1, compared to $8 million in Q1 2025, supported by various improvements including a lower provision for income taxes.

Adjusted EBITDA rose 15% to $287 million, fueled by the aforementioned same-store sales growth in Italy, OPtiMa cost efficiencies, reduced LMA shortfall, and positive foreign exchange movements. These gains were partially offset by investments in human capital, the UK service contract transition, and inflationary pressures affecting postage and freight costs.

On a per-share basis, the company recorded diluted earnings of $0.20, a significant improvement from a diluted loss of $0.11 in the prior-year period. Adjusted diluted earnings per share from continuing operations came in at $0.14, up from $0.09 in the previous year.

As of March 31, Brightstar’s net debt stood at $2.8 billion, with a net debt leverage ratio of 2.4x. The company’s total liquidity was $2.8 billion, comprising $1.2 billion in unrestricted cash and $1.6 billion in additional borrowing capacity.

The Forecasts Paint an Optimistic Picture

Other highlights included a quarterly dividend of $0.23 per share, payable on June 11.

Brightstar also disclosed that it made its final payment on the Italy Lotto license amounting to $1.67 billion, and successfully refinanced its revolving credit facility through March 2031, securing improved terms.

Looking ahead, Brightstar forecasts full-year 2026 revenue between $2.5 billion and $2.55 billion. It expects adjusted EBITDA for 2026 to be in the range of $1.16–1.19 billion.

Brightstar’s C-Suite Was Pleased

Brenda Sadusky, chief executive officer of Brightstar, described the results as a strong start to 2026. She expressed satisfaction with the disciplined execution of the company’s strategic priorities and noted that investments in long-term growth initiatives are delivering tangible shareholder value.

We’re on track with our multi-year goal of delivering accelerated sales and profit growth that we expect to create compelling, incremental value.

Vince Sadusky, CEO, Brightstar

Max Chiara, Brightstar’s chief financial officer, echoed this optimism, citing OPtiMa-driven cost savings and the effective balance between cost control and strategic initiatives as key accomplishments. Chiara emphasized that the company’s robust margin profile, strong cash generation, and ample liquidity position provide “substantial support” for ongoing capital allocation strategies.