ACELAccel Entertainment, Inc.
Accel Entertainment, Inc. (ACEL) operates as a locals-focused gaming operator, partnering with small businesses, local communities, and state governments to provide entertainment, convenience, and safety through gaming experiences. The next catalyst is Oct 15, 2026 — Chicago VGT Legislative & Permitting Update, which will test the company’s ability to secure regulatory approval for its video gaming terminal (VGT) operations in Chicago.
- Revenue in Q1 2026 hit a record $352 million, but EPS fell year-over-year, signaling margin pressure.
- Free cash flow (TTM) stands at $106.37 million, with a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.39x.
- Shareholders’ equity is $269.68 million, and the company reported $55.20 million in net income for the quarter ending 2019-09-30.
The Read
Accel Entertainment's stock surged 2% on strong Q4 2025 results and Chicago VGT legalization optimism, then fell 6%.
The schedule
- Thu15Oct
The update tests whether regulatory clarity on VGT permits can unlock capital for expansion, differing from the last update which failed to address permitting delays.
- Tue27Oct
The release tests whether the company can reset guidance and show improved mix, unlike the last print which missed on margin commentary.
- Tue26Jan
The release tests whether the company can show improved revenue from new VGT projects, differing from the last print which underperformed on capital allocation.
- Tue27Apr
The release tests whether the company can show improved cash flow from operations, unlike the last print which missed on operating margin expansion.
- Tue27Jul
The release tests whether the company can show improved revenue from new VGT projects, differing from the last print which underperformed on capital allocation.
Past
- Tue28Jul
Actual outcome: Mixed · $12.16 at outcome
Accel Entertainment reported earnings in line with expectations, with record revenue driven by higher productivity in Illinois and growth in developing markets. The company also announced continued preparation for the opening of video gaming terminals in Chicago, reinforcing long-term growth prospects and supporting the stock's rally.
Market evaluation of Q2 2026 earnings, focusing on whether management can rein in the elevated VGT capital expenditures that compressed Q1 margins.
- Tue5May
Actual outcome: Bear · $11.65 at outcome
Accel Entertainment reported record Q1 2026 revenue of $352 million and met consensus EPS estimates. However, earnings per share declined significantly year-over-year from $0.24 to $0.17, highlighting margin pressures and the impact of elevated VGT capex. This profitability contraction overshadowed the strong top-line results, driving a 6.6% decline in the stock price.
- Tue3Mar
Actual outcome: Bull · $11.48 at outcome
Accel Entertainment reported record fourth-quarter results, delivering a 7.5% revenue increase and beating analyst estimates on both the top and bottom lines. This strong financial performance, combined with growing optimism around the transformative catalyst of Chicago VGT legalization, prompted analyst upgrades and drove the stock to a new 52-week high.