AGEM Index February 2010

by Association of Gaming Equipment Manufacturers (AGEM)

Henderson / / 2010-03-10 (GlobalGamingPR) - By the end of February 2010, there was little movement in the AGEM Index, as the net impact of gains and losses for various global gaming suppliers remained relatively unchanged from the previous month. The index fell modestly by 0.60 points, or 0.6 percent, to close at 102.28. Earnings reports for the fourth quarter of 2009 are underway and the AGEM Index, similar to the broader equities markets, is reflecting investor reaction – one of caution. Markets remain down for the calendar year, but up significantly from the lows reached 12 months ago. On a year‐over‐year basis, the AGEM Index and the S&P 500 are up 82.3 percent, and 50.4 percent, respectively. Investors have remained cautious as consumer confidence and the labor market continue to exhibit weakness, and debt in Greece raised concerns within the eurozone and its ability to recover from the latest downturn.

Selected positive contributors to the index during the month include: (1) Konami (KNM) with the largest contribution, adding 1.32 points to the index based on a 10.01‐percent increase in its stock price and (2) Aristocrat Technologies (ALL) contributing 0.54 points with a 6.55‐percent increase in its stock performance.

Selected negative contributors to the index include: (1) Lottomatica (LTO) with its stock price falling 7.87 percent, contributing ‐1.81 points to the index and (2) International Game Technology (IGT) posting ‐1.18 points to the index with a 4.31‐percent decline in its stock valuation.

Fears of a double‐dip recession continue with apprehension among investors, as a scenario of jobless recovery may become reality. Additionally, housing, consumer confidence and spending remain fragile creating a longer road to recovery. Finally, gaming expansions in key jurisdictions remain a bright spot in an otherwise challenging environment.



Category: casino / Financials