Supreme Ventures Limited (SVL) demonstrated steady revenue growth despite facing short-term profitability pressures in its first-quarter financial performance of 2025.

The company reaffirmed its commitment to long-term value creation, operational efficiency, and strategic diversification—especially through assets like Caymanas Park, the island’s only racetrack.

For the quarter ended March 31, 2025, SVL reported gaming revenues of J$13.88 billion, up four per cent
year-over-year, buoyed by growth in key segments, particularly sports betting, which increased from J$3.9 billion to J$4.2 billion.

The lottery division remained the largest revenue contributor, generating 43 per cent, followed by 31 per cent from sports betting, and the remainder from PIN codes and other services.

Gross profit improved by six per cent to J$3.22 billion, but a 32 per cent jump in selling, general and
administrative expenses to J$2.2 billion weighed on overall profitability. Operating profit declined slightly to J$953 million, while net profit before taxation came in at J$732.7 million, a 39 per cent drop from J$1.2 billion the year before. Net profit attributable to shareholders was J$515.6 million, down 41 per cent, with earnings per share (EPS) of J$0.20.

Despite the dip, SVL issued J$0.17 per share in dividends, continuing its track record of consistent returns to shareholders.

“We have made the strategic decision to absorb certain short-term costs as we reposition for long-term growth,” said Gary Peart, executive chairman of SVL during last Friday’s virtual Mayberry Investor’s Forum. “While our Q1 bottom line reflects increased expenses, these investments are deliberate—geared towards digital transformation, product innovation, and the further development of our assets like Caymanas Park.”

SVL’s balance sheet remained healthy, with total assets at J$20.78 billion, and shareholders’ equity up eight per cent to J$5 billion. The company reduced liabilities from J$16 billion to J$15.4 billion
and maintained a cash position of J$1.3 billion, reflecting sound financial discipline.

Importantly, the J$515 million in Q1 net profit represented a significant recovery from the J$74 million posted in Q4 2024, which was the lowest quarterly result in two years.

Cumulatively, SVL has posted J$1.4 billion in profits over the last four quarters, but analysts advised that consistent quarterly profits of J$500 million will be needed to return to the J$2 billion annual profit levels the company previously delivered.

Peart also reiterated the group’s ongoing investment in Caymanas Park, which continues to be a core part of the company’s diversification strategy beyond traditional lottery operations.

“We see tremendous potential in Caymanas Park—not just in the horseracing product but in the broader entertainment experience,” Peart noted. “We’ve invested in infrastructure, technology and customer experience to elevate the park’s role in Jamaica’s sports and leisure landscape. It’s a long-term play, but one we believe will pay dividends in more ways than one.”

Over the past year, SVL and its subsidiary Supreme Ventures Racing & Entertainment Limited (SVREL) have introduced track upgrades, new wagering platforms, and enhanced live broadcast capabilities to modernize the Park and boost engagement with younger audiences.

SVL’s stock has traded between a 52-week low of J$18 and a high of J$26.50, currently hovering around J$20. Although this is below historical highs of J$30 to J$32, investor optimism remains, especially in light of the company’s fundamentals. The current book value is J$1.91, with a trailing EPS of J$0.55.

Analysts at the briefing pointed to broader market shifts, including the Bank of Jamaica’s 30-day Treasury Bill yields dropping from 10 per cent to around 5.5 per cent, which is expected to drive investors back toward blue-chip equities like SVL.

“In this lower interest rate environment, SVL becomes even more attractive,” said Peart. “With our dividend policy and cash-generating business model, we believe we are well-positioned for capital appreciation and income generation for our shareholders.”

The company was spotlighted alongside other major Jamaican firms such as the NCB Financial Group, GraceKennedy, and Seprod, as market watchers forecast a rebound in the JSE Main Market Index over the next three quarters.

SVL’s strategic focus for the rest of 2025 includes growing its digital footprint, improving operating efficiencies, and unlocking the full value of assets like Caymanas Park.

These initiatives will play a central role in restoring profitability and market confidence.

“We’re building a future-proof company,” said Peart in closing. “This quarter was about laying the foundation for that. We’re committed to excellence in execution—and in shareholder value.”