10-K 1 d10k.htm FORM 10-K Form 10-K
Table of Contents

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

 

x ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2006

OR

 

¨ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period             to             

Commission File No. 000-50028

WYNN RESORTS, LIMITED

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Nevada   46-0484987
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
  (I.R.S. Employer
Identification Number)

3131 Las Vegas Boulevard South—Las Vegas, Nevada 89109

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

(702) 770-7555

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Common Stock, $0.01 Par Value

(Title of Class)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.    Yes  x    No  ¨

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.    Yes  ¨    No  x

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  x    No  ¨

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of the registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.    ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

Large accelerated filer    x

  Accelerated filer    ¨   Non-accelerated filer    ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes  ¨    No  x

The aggregate market value of the registrant’s voting and non-voting common stock held by non-affiliates based on the closing price as reported on the Nasdaq Stock Market on June 30, 2006 was approximately $3.7 billion.

As of February 16, 2007, 101,893,781 shares of the registrant’s Common Stock, $.01 par value, were outstanding.

Portions of the registrant’s Proxy Statement for its 2007 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be filed not later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by this report are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Form 10-K.

 



Table of Contents

PART I

ITEM 1.    BUSINESS

Overview

Wynn Resorts, Limited, led by Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Stephen A. Wynn, is a leading developer, owner and operator of destination casino resorts. We own and operate two destination casino resorts: “Wynn Las Vegas,” on the “Strip” in Las Vegas, Nevada, and “Wynn Macau,” located in the Macau Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China (“Macau”). We are also currently constructing “Encore at Wynn Las Vegas” (“Encore”) and we continue to develop and construct the second phase of Wynn Macau.

Unless the context otherwise requires, all references herein to “Wynn Resorts,” the “Company,” “we,” “us” or “our,” or similar terms, refer to Wynn Resorts, Limited and its consolidated subsidiaries or, with respect to periods prior to September 24, 2002, to Valvino Lamore, LLC (“Valvino”) and its consolidated subsidiaries, as the predecessor company of Wynn Resorts.

Wynn Resorts has previously filed registration statements and other documents with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Any document Wynn Resorts files may be inspected, without charge, at the SEC’s public reference room at 450 Fifth Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20549 or at the SEC’s internet site address at http://www.sec.gov. Information related to the operation of the SEC’s public reference room may be obtained by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. In addition, through its own internet address at www.wynnresorts.com, Wynn Resorts provides a hyperlink to a third-party SEC filing website which posts these filings as soon as reasonably practicable, where they can be reviewed without charge.

Our Resorts

Wynn Las Vegas

Wynn Las Vegas opened to the public on April 28, 2005. The resort’s accommodations, amenities and exceptional service have allowed us to attract and retain high quality customers. Wynn Las Vegas offers 2,716 rooms and suites, including 36 fairway villas and 6 private-entry villas for our premium guests. In November 2006, the Tower Suites at Wynn Las Vegas became the only casino resort in the world to receive both the Mobil five star and AAA five diamond distinctions. The approximately 111,000 square foot casino features 132 table games, a baccarat salon, private VIP gaming rooms, a poker room, 1,974 slot machines, and a race and sports book. The resort’s 22 food and beverage outlets feature six fine dining restaurants, including restaurants helmed by award winning chefs. Wynn Las Vegas also offers a nightclub, an ultra-lounge, a spa and salon, a Ferrari and Maserati automobile dealership, wedding chapels, an 18-hole golf course, approximately 223,000 square feet of meeting space and an approximately 74,000 square foot retail promenade featuring boutiques from Chanel, Christian Dior, Graff, Manolo Blahnik, Jean-Paul Gaultier and Louis Vuitton. Wynn Las Vegas also has two showrooms. The Wynn Theater features “Le Rêve,” a water-based production. The Broadway Theater was recently remodeled to feature “Monty Python’s Spamalot,” winner of the 2005 Tony Award for best musical. Performances of Spamalot will commence in the first quarter of 2007. We believe that the unique experience of Wynn Las Vegas drives the significant visitation experienced since opening. During the year ended December 31, 2006, our average occupancy was 94.4% and our average daily room rate was $287, which compares favorably to the overall 89.7% average occupancy and $120 average daily room rate of Las Vegas. Since its opening, we have further enhanced and refined Wynn Las Vegas in response to market demands and customer preferences.

Wynn Macau

Wynn Macau opened to the public on September 6, 2006. This first phase of Wynn Macau utilizes approximately 11 of a total site area of 16 acres of land. When it opened, Wynn Macau featured approximately 600 hotel rooms and suites, approximately 220 table games and approximately 380 slot machines in

 

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approximately 100,000 square feet of casino gaming space, seven restaurants, approximately 26,000 square feet of retail space, a spa and salon, entertainment lounges and meeting facilities. The second phase is being constructed on the remaining 5 acres of the Wynn Macau site and is being integrated into the first phase. In February 2007, we added additional table games and slot machines bringing the current total to approximately 256 table games and approximately 477 slot machines in an approximately 110,000 square foot casino. In July 2007, we anticipate opening the expansion which will bring the table count to approximately 420 and slot machine to approximately 1,280 in total. During the year ended December 31, 2006, our occupancy was 80.6% which compares favorably to the overall occupancy rate in Macau of 72.3% and our average daily room rate was $238. Since its opening, we have enhanced, and will continue to refine, Wynn Macau in response to market demands and customer preferences.

Construction and Development

Wynn Las Vegas

Wynn Las Vegas opened on April 28, 2005. Wynn Las Vegas was constructed at a total cost of approximately $2.74 billion. This includes the purchase of 235 acres of land (including the land for Encore) and buildings formerly comprising the Desert Inn, additional land for employee parking, costs of design and construction, financing fees, interest and other pre-opening costs.

In the ordinary course of our business and in order to increase revenues, we have made and continue to make certain enhancements and refinements to Wynn Las Vegas. Since opening we have remodeled the Fairway Villas, Corsa Cucina, the property’s contemporary Italian restaurant, Tryst, our nightclub, several areas of the retail promenade, a portion of the baccarat area to feature a casino bar and improved public baccarat space along with private baccarat salons, converted the Keno lounge to a retail outlet for women’s accessories, and remodeled our ladies’ shoe boutique in the retail esplanade. In March 2007, we intend to remodel the Le Reve Theatre, decreasing the seat count from 2,087 to 1,606 and further enhancing the guest experience. We expect the remodel effort to last approximately 30 days during which time there will be no performances of Le Reve. We have incurred and will continue to incur capital expenditures related to these types of enhancements and refinements at Wynn Las Vegas.

Encore at Wynn Las Vegas

As a result of the strong demand for the amenities and services offered by Wynn Las Vegas, the continued strength of the Las Vegas market, and our desire to maximize the potential of our substantial real estate assets, we are developing Encore on approximately 20 acres on the Strip, immediately adjacent to Wynn Las Vegas. Current plans for Encore include a 2,034 all-suite hotel tower fully integrated with Wynn Las Vegas, as well as an approximately 72,000 square foot casino, additional convention and meeting space, as well as restaurants, nightclubs, swimming pools, a spa and salon and retail outlets. We continue to refine the final design of Encore. We commenced construction of Encore in the second quarter of 2006 and expect to open Encore to the public by early 2009.

Our project budget is currently estimated at approximately $2.1 billion, consisting of approximately $2.0 billion for Encore and approximately $100 million for an employee parking garage on our Koval property, an associated pedestrian bridge and costs incurred in connection with the theatre remodeling and production of “Monty Python’s Spamalot” at Wynn Las Vegas. The budget has increased from the previously announced $1.74 billion due to refinements in scope and market conditions for construction materials. The project budget will be funded from our existing credit facilities, remaining proceeds from the first mortgage notes and operating cash flow from Wynn Las Vegas. To the extent additional funds are required, we will provide these amounts with additional debt and equity contributions by Wynn Resorts. On March 31, 2006, Wynn Resorts delivered an equity commitment to its bank lenders under which Wynn Resorts is obligated to pay project costs if Wynn Las Vegas is unable to. As of August 2006, Wynn Resorts’ obligation under the equity commitment was $70 million. As of December 31, 2006, the Company had incurred approximately $277.6 million of project costs related to the development and construction of Encore and related capital improvements.

On February 27, 2007, we entered into a Design Build Architectural, Engineering and Construction Services Agreement (the “Contract”) with Tutor-Saliba Corporation (“Tutor”) for the design and construction of Encore. The Contract sets forth all of the terms and conditions pursuant to which Tutor will design and construct Encore.

 

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In addition to the terms and conditions governing the design and construction of Encore, the Contract provides that the parties will negotiate a guaranteed maximum price (the Encore “GMP”) for the construction and design of Encore within 90 days of execution of the Contract. If the parties cannot mutually agree upon a GMP during the 90 day period, the Company can, at its option, (a) continue to employ Tutor for construction and design services on a cost-plus basis, (b) agree to alternative arrangements with Tutor or (c) terminate the Contract. In connection with the execution and delivery of the Contract, Tutor and the Ronald N. Tutor Separate Trust (the “Trust”) have entered into and consented to a Net Worth Agreement pursuant to which (x) the Trust agreed that it will retain its current majority holdings of Tutor and (y) the Trust and Tutor agreed that during the term of the Contract, Tutor will maintain (i) net worth of at least $100 million, and (ii) liquid assets of at least $50 million.

Wynn Macau

Wynn Macau opened on September 6, 2006. Construction on the second phase is progressing as planned and is expected to open in the third quarter of 2007. This second phase includes approximately 123,000 square feet of additional gaming space, a dramatic front feature attraction, a theater showroom and additional food, beverage and retail amenities. As of December 31, 2006, we have incurred approximately $877.1 million of a total project budget (excluding Wynn Diamond Suites) of approximately $1.2 billion. In addition, we continue to develop the plans and budget for Wynn Diamond Suites, a further expansion of Wynn Macau, which was first announced in November 2006. This further expansion is expected to add a second self-contained, fully-integrated all-suite resort hotel including food and beverage, retail and entertainment amenities.

Other Development Opportunities

We have submitted an application to the government of Macau for a concession of land in Cotai. We recently reconfigured our site plan for 52 acres and are awaiting final approval. We continually seek out new opportunities for additional gaming or related businesses, in Las Vegas, other markets in the United States, and worldwide.

Our Strategy

Capitalize on the “Wynn” Brand.    We believe Steve Wynn is the preeminent designer, developer and operator of destination casino resorts and, as such, has developed brand name status. Mr. Wynn’s involvement with our casino resorts provides a distinct advantage over other gaming enterprises. We integrate luxurious surroundings, upscale design, distinctive entertainment and superior amenities, including fine dining and premium retail offerings, to create resorts that appeal to a variety of customers, especially high-end customers. We believe that Wynn Las Vegas sets a new standard of luxury and elegance for destination casino resorts in Las Vegas. We also believe that Mr. Wynn’s reputation and the new standard of luxury and elegance brought to the industry by Wynn Las Vegas and Wynn Macau translate to a high level of anticipation for Encore at Wynn Las Vegas and our expansion of Wynn Macau including the Wynn Diamond Suites. We intend to extend our “Wynn” brand to other domestic and international opportunities as they arise.

Attract and deliver high-quality service and amenities to high-end gaming customers.    Wynn Las Vegas and Wynn Macau were designed and built to attract premium gaming customers. Wynn Las Vegas offers luxurious rooms and suites, high-limit tables, VIP gaming salons, exquisite fine dining, premium retail shopping, distinctive entertainment and an 18-hole golf course. In November 2006, the Tower Suites at Wynn Las Vegas became the only casino resort in the world to receive both the Mobil five star and AAA five diamond distinctions. In addition, four of our Wynn Las Vegas resort’s restaurants have been recognized by AAA (including our AAA rated, 5-Diamond French restaurant, Alex). Our hotel and gaming offerings are designed to meet the expectations of high-budget, premium customers.

Marketing.    We have positioned Wynn Las Vegas as a full-service luxury resort and casino in the leisure, convention and tour and travel markets. We market Wynn Las Vegas directly to gaming customers using

 

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database marketing techniques, as well as traditional incentives, such as reduced room rates and complimentary meals and suites. We offer high-roller gaming customers premium suites and special hotel services, and have a guest loyalty program that integrates all gaming, hotel, food, beverage and retail revenue generated by a particular guest and compares it against incurred expenses to determine the profitability of that guest. Our rewards system offers discounted and complimentary meals, lodging and entertainment for our guests. We also use our integrated database to target specific customers for promotions that might induce them to visit Wynn Las Vegas.

Mr. Wynn and our marketing team have developed a substantial network of long-standing international and domestic premium customers. We have marketing executives located in local offices in Tokyo, Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore, Taiwan, Vancouver and southern California, as well as independent marketing representatives in major U.S. and foreign cities.

Capitalize on our Opportunity in Macau.    The government of Macau intends to transform Macau into the tourist destination of choice in Asia. The Macau government is encouraging significant investment in new and expanded casino entertainment facilities to enhance its reputation as a casino resort destination and to attract additional tourists and lengthen stays. The Chinese government has also gradually relaxed its travel and currency restrictions, allowing mainland Chinese from certain urban centers and economically developed areas to visit Macau without joining a tour group and increasing the amount of currency that Chinese citizens are permitted to bring into Macau. We expect tourism in Macau to continue to grow as the Chinese government continues to liberalize restrictions on travel and currency movements.

Gaming customers from Hong Kong, southeast China, Taiwan and other locations in Asia can reach Macau in a relatively short period of time, and visitors from more distant locations in Asia can take advantage of short travel times by air to Macau or to Hong Kong. The relatively easy access from major population centers positions Macau as a popular gaming destination in Asia.

We utilized our brand and significant experience in Las Vegas in providing a Steve Wynn-designed property on our 16-acre site located in Macau’s inner harbor area across from the Hotel Lisboa, Macau’s best-known casino. Our concession provides us with the ability to develop an unlimited number of casino resorts with Macau government approval, which adds significant value to our Macau opportunity.

Future Las Vegas Expansion.    Wynn Las Vegas is located on approximately 55 acres on the famed Las Vegas Strip. Our property is located between the approximately 3.2 million square feet of convention space operated by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority and the expanding Venetian Casino Resort and its approximately 1.8 million square foot Sands Expo Center; diagonally across from the Mirage and the Treasure Island Hotel and Casino; directly across from the Fashion Show Mall; and across from new developments expected on the current sites of the New Frontier and the Stardust casino resorts. Encore is being developed on 20 acres of land adjacent to Wynn Las Vegas. We also have an approximately 142-acre parcel of land behind Wynn Las Vegas, which is currently used as a golf course. In addition, we have approximately 18 acres of land across Sands Avenue on a portion of which we recently completed a new employee parking garage.

We are developing a long-range master plan for the 142-acre golf course that will include a large mixed-use hotel, casino entertainment resort complex. It is not expected that any construction on the golf course land would begin before 2009.

Experienced Management Team.    Mr. Wynn and his team bring significant experience in designing, developing and operating casino resorts. Mr. Wynn and many members of the current senior management team were responsible for the design, development and operation of The Mirage, Treasure Island at The Mirage, and Bellagio. The senior executive team has an average of approximately 25 years of experience in the hotel and gaming industries. We also have an approximately 100-person design, development and construction subsidiary, the senior management of which has significant experience in all major construction disciplines.

 

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Opportunities for Future Growth.    We are continually looking for new opportunities for gaming and related businesses in Las Vegas and Macau, as well as other domestic and international markets through acquisition, investment or development.

Market and Competition

Las Vegas

Las Vegas is the largest gaming market in the United States and is also one of the fastest growing leisure, lodging and entertainment markets in the United States. During the year ended December 31, 2006, the Las Vegas gaming and hotel markets continued their upward trends with, among other things, a 0.9% increase in visitation to 38.9 million visitors, a 10.9% increase in Las Vegas Strip gaming revenue and a 16.0% increase in average daily room rates, all as compared to December 2005.

Many properties on the Las Vegas Strip have opened over the past ten years, including the Bellagio, Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, Paris Las Vegas, Aladdin Resort & Casino and The Venetian. In addition, a number of existing properties on the Las Vegas Strip embarked on expansions during this period, including Bellagio, Luxor Hotel and Casino, Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino and Caesars Palace. As a result, the casino/hotel industry in Las Vegas is highly competitive. Wynn Las Vegas is located on the Las Vegas Strip and competes with these and other high-quality resorts and hotel casinos, those in downtown Las Vegas, as well as a large number of hotels and motels in and near Las Vegas.

Many competing properties, such as the Bellagio, Caesars Palace, Luxor Hotel and Casino, Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, The Mirage, New York-New York Hotel and Casino, Paris Las Vegas, Treasure Island at The Mirage, The Venetian and others, have themes and attractions which draw a significant number of visitors and directly compete with our operations. We seek to differentiate Wynn Las Vegas from other major Las Vegas resorts by concentrating on our fundamental elements of design, atmosphere, personal service and luxury.

Wynn Las Vegas also competes, to some extent, with other hotel/casino facilities in Nevada and Atlantic City, riverboat gaming facilities in other states, casino facilities on Native American lands and elsewhere in the world, state lotteries, and other forms of gaming. The continued proliferation of Native American gaming in California could have a negative impact on our operations. In particular, the legalization of casino gaming in or near metropolitan areas from which we attract customers, could have a negative effect on our business. In addition, new or renovated casinos in Macau or elsewhere in Asia could draw Asian gaming customers, including high-rollers, away from Las Vegas.

In addition to the existing casinos with which Wynn Las Vegas currently competes, several new resorts are expected to open on or near the Las Vegas Strip before 2011. The major projects, which have either been announced or are currently under construction include, but are not limited to:

 

   

Palazzo—an approximately $1.85 billion development by Las Vegas Sands currently under construction adjacent to The Venetian.

 

   

Echelon Place—an approximately $4.0 billion development by Boyd Gaming located north of Wynn Las Vegas on the Strip.

 

   

City Center—an approximately $7.0 billion development by MGM Mirage located south of Wynn Las Vegas on the Strip.

Macau

Macau, which was a Portuguese colony for approximately 450 years, was transferred in December 1999 from Portuguese to Chinese political control. Macau is administered as a special administrative region of China. Macau is located approximately 37 miles southwest of, and less than one hour away via ferry from, Hong Kong

 

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and has been a casino destination for more than 40 years. Macau consists principally of a small peninsula on mainland China, and two neighboring islands, Taipa and Coloane, connected by bridges. We believe that Macau is positioned in one of the world’s largest concentrations of potential gaming customers. According to Macau Statistical Information, casinos in Macau generated approximately $6.98 billion in gaming revenue in 2006, a 22% increase over the $5.6 billion generated in 2005, making Macau one of the largest gaming markets in the world.

Macau’s gaming market is primarily dependent on tourists. According to the Macau Statistics and Census Service Monthly Bulletin of Statistics, approximately 22.0 million people visited Macau in 2006, an increase of 17.6% over the 18.7 million visitors of 2005. From 1999 through 2006, fewer than one-third of visitors traveling to Macau stayed overnight in hotels and guestrooms and, for those who stayed overnight in hotels and guestrooms, the average length of stay was only one to two nights. We expect the average length of stay to increase as a result of new, upscale hotel resort accommodations in Macau, including Wynn Macau.

Gaming customers traveling to Macau typically come from nearby destinations in Asia including Hong Kong, mainland China, Taiwan, South Korea and Japan. According to the Macau Statistics and Census Service Monthly Bulletin of Statistics, approximately 92.6% of the tourists who visited Macau in 2006 came from Hong Kong, mainland China and Taiwan. Macau completed construction of an international airport in 1995, which accommodates large commercial aircraft and provides direct air service to major cities in Asia, including Manila, Singapore, Taipei, Bangkok, Beijing and Shanghai.

Prior to 2002, gaming in Macau was permitted as a government-sanctioned monopoly concession awarded to a single concessionaire. However, under the authority of the Chief Executive and the Casino Tender Commission of Macau, the government of Macau liberalized the gaming industry in 2002 by granting concessions to operate casinos to three concessionaires, who in turn were permitted, subject to the approval of the government of Macau, to each grant one sub-concession to other gaming operators.

On March 4, 2006, we entered into an agreement with Publishing and Broadcasting, Ltd. (“PBL”), an Australian casino operator, to sell to PBL a subconcession right to operate casino games in Macau for a purchase price of $900 million. On September 8, 2006, the government of Macau approved the sale of the subconcession right, and on September 11, 2006, we completed the sale to PBL and received a cash payment of $900 million. As a result of the sale and the subconcession awarded to PBL by the government of Macau, we have no rights or obligations with respect to the subconcession.

Currently, there are 24 operating casinos in Macau. In addition, there are several large casino resorts currently under construction and development.

Sociedade de Jogos de Macau (“SJM”) operates 17 of the 24 casinos. SJM is controlled by Stanley Ho, who through another entity, controlled the monopoly concession to conduct gaming operations in Macau for more than 40 years. Most of SJM’s casinos are relatively small facilities, which are offered as amenities in hotels; however, a few are substantial operations. Three of the largest casinos in Macau are operated by SJM: the Hotel Lisboa, The Greek Mythology Casino (formerly the New Century Casino), and the Jai Alai. In addition, an affiliate of Mr. Ho owns substantially all of the water ferry services and the helicopter shuttle service that link Macau to Hong Kong. In February of 2007, SJM opened a portion of the Grand Lisboa behind the Hotel Lisboa.

A joint venture of MGM MIRAGE and Pansy Ho Chiu-king (Stanley Ho’s daughter) is currently constructing the MGM Grand Macau, a resort on the Macau peninsula adjacent to Wynn Macau. The project is to include a 600 room hotel, several restaurants as well as other attractions, approximately 345 table games and approximately 1,035 slot machines. The announced project budget is $1.1 billion and the opening is expected to be in late 2007.

Galaxy Casino Company Limited, referred to herein as Galaxy, also was awarded a casino concession in June 2002. Galaxy is a company controlled by Hong Kong businessman Lui Chi-woo and a group of Hong Kong

 

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investors. Galaxy opened the Waldo Hotel/Casino on the peninsula in 2004, the Grand Waldo Cotai in the summer of 2006, and Galaxy Star World hotel casino immediately adjacent to Wynn Macau in October 2006.

Las Vegas Sands Corp., the owner and operator of The Venetian Resort Hotel in Las Vegas and a former partner of Galaxy, has entered into a sub-concession agreement with Galaxy which allows it to independently develop and operate casinos in Macau. Each of Galaxy Waldo and Sands Macao has captured a significant share of the casino gaming market in Macau. Both Galaxy and Las Vegas Sands Corp. are also constructing major casino resorts in Cotai.

The Sands Macao opened in 2004, and as of December 2006, offers approximately 770 table games and approximately 1,230 slot machines. Las Vegas Sands Corp. is currently constructing the Venetian Macao Resort Hotel, a 3,000 suite hotel, casino and convention center complex, with retail, dining and entertainment, all with a Venetian-style theme similar to that of its Las Vegas property. In addition, Las Vegas Sands Corp. has proposed a masterplan for over 200 acres in Cotai that would include: (a) a Four Seasons-branded project with serviced apartment units, and additional retail and related space, and (b) additional hotel properties, to be built in multiple phases. The Venetian Macao Resort Hotel is expected to open in 2007.

A joint venture consisting of Melco, a Hong Kong stock exchange-listed company and PBL, is currently developing the Crown Macau and a large resort in Cotai, called City of Dreams and will operate its properties under the subconcession it purchased from us. Crown Macau, located in Taipa, is anticipated to open in 2007.

A joint venture consisting of Hong Kong-based eSun Holdings and New Cotai, LLC recently broke ground on the Macao Studio City project. The Macao Studio City is being developed in Cotai and is expected to feature a theatre, television and film production facilities, retail, gaming, entertainment and world-class hotels.

Our casino concession agreement permits the government to grant additional concessions for the operation of casinos after April 1, 2009. If the government of Macau awards additional concessions or permits additional sub-concessionaires, Wynn Macau will face increased competition from casino operators in Macau.

Wynn Macau also faces competition from casinos located in other areas of Asia, such as Genting Highlands Resort, a major gaming and resort destination located outside of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and casinos in the Philippines, as well as pachinko and pachislot parlors in Japan. Wynn Macau also encounters competition from other major gaming centers located around the world, including Australia and Las Vegas, cruise ships in Asia that offer gaming, and other casinos throughout Asia.

Regulation and Licensing

The gaming industry is highly regulated. Gaming registrations, licenses and approvals, once obtained, can be suspended or revoked for a variety of reasons. We cannot assure you that we will obtain all required registrations, licenses and approvals on a timely basis or at all, or that, once obtained, the registrations, findings of suitability, licenses and approvals will not be suspended, conditioned, limited or revoked. If we ever are prohibited from operating one of our gaming facilities, we would, to the extent permitted by law, seek to recover our investment by selling the property affected, but we cannot assure you that we would recover its full value.

Nevada

Introduction.    The ownership and operation of casino gaming facilities in the State of Nevada are subject to the Nevada Gaming Control Act and the regulations made under the Act, as well as to various local ordinances. Wynn Las Vegas’ operations are subject to the licensing and regulatory control of the Nevada Gaming Commission, the Nevada State Gaming Control Board and the Clark County Liquor and Gaming License Board, which we refer to herein collectively as the “Nevada Gaming Authorities.”

 

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Policy Concerns of Gaming Laws.    The laws, regulations and supervisory procedures of the Nevada Gaming Authorities are based upon declarations of public policy. These public policy concerns include, among other things:

 

   

preventing unsavory or unsuitable persons from being directly or indirectly involved with gaming at any time or in any capacity;

 

   

establishing and maintaining responsible accounting practices and procedures;

 

   

maintaining effective controls over the financial practices of licensees, including establishing minimum procedures for internal fiscal affairs, and safeguarding assets and revenue, providing reliable recordkeeping and requiring the filing of periodic reports with the Nevada Gaming Authorities;

 

   

preventing cheating and fraudulent practices; and

 

   

providing a source of state and local revenue through taxation and licensing fees.

Changes in these laws, regulations and procedures could have significant negative effects on Wynn Las Vegas’ gaming operations and our financial condition and results of operations.

Owner and Operator Licensing Requirements.    Our subsidiary, Wynn Las Vegas, LLC, as the owner and operator of Wynn Las Vegas, has been approved by the Nevada Gaming Authorities as a limited liability company licensee, referred to as a company licensee, which includes approval to conduct casino gaming operations, including a race book and sports pool and pari-mutuel wagering. These gaming licenses are not transferable. We cannot be certain that Wynn Las Vegas, LLC will be able to maintain all approvals and licenses from the Nevada Gaming Authorities.

Company Registration Requirements.    Wynn Resorts was found suitable by the Nevada Gaming Commission to own the equity interests of Wynn Resorts Holdings, LLC (“Wynn Resorts Holdings”), a wholly owned subsidiary of Wynn Resorts, and to be registered by the Nevada Gaming Commission as a publicly traded corporation, referred to as a registered company, for the purposes of the Nevada Gaming Control Act. Wynn Resorts Holdings was found suitable by the Nevada Gaming Commission to own the equity interests of Wynn Las Vegas, LLC and to be registered by the Nevada Gaming Commission as an intermediary company. In addition to being licensed, Wynn Las Vegas, LLC, as an issuer of First Mortgage Notes were registered with the SEC, also qualified as a registered company. Wynn Las Vegas Capital Corp., a co-issuer of the First Mortgage Notes, was not required to be registered or licensed, but may be required to be found suitable as a lender or financing source.

Periodically, we are required to submit detailed financial and operating reports to the Nevada Gaming Commission and provide any other information that the Nevada Gaming Commission may require. Substantially all of our material loans, leases, sales of securities and similar financing transactions must be reported to, or approved by, the Nevada Gaming Commission.

Individual Licensing Requirements.    No person may become a stockholder or member of, or receive any percentage of the profits of, an intermediary company or company licensee without first obtaining licenses and approvals from the Nevada Gaming Authorities. The Nevada Gaming Authorities may investigate any individual who has a material relationship to or material involvement with us to determine whether the individual is suitable or should be licensed as a business associate of a gaming licensee. Certain of our officers, directors and key employees have been or may be required to file applications with the Nevada Gaming Authorities and are or may be required to be licensed or found suitable by the Nevada Gaming Authorities. All applications required as of the date of this report have been filed. However, the Nevada Gaming Authorities may require additional applications and may also deny an application for licensing for any reason, which they deem appropriate. A finding of suitability is comparable to licensing, and both require submission of detailed personal and financial information followed by a thorough investigation. An applicant for licensing or an applicant for a finding of suitability must pay or must cause to be paid all the costs of the investigation. Changes in licensed positions must

 

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be reported to the Nevada Gaming Authorities and, in addition to their authority to deny an application for a finding of suitability or licensing, the Nevada Gaming Authorities have the jurisdiction to disapprove a change in a corporate position.

If the Nevada Gaming Authorities were to find an officer, director or key employee unsuitable for licensing or unsuitable to continue having a relationship with us, we would have to sever all relationships with that person. In addition, the Nevada Gaming Commission may require us to terminate the employment of any person who refuses to file appropriate applications. Determinations of suitability or questions pertaining to licensing are not subject to judicial review in Nevada.

Redemption of Securities Owned By an Unsuitable Person.    Wynn Resorts’ articles of incorporation provide that, to the extent a gaming authority makes a determination of unsuitability or to the extent deemed necessary or advisable by the board of directors, Wynn Resorts may redeem shares of its capital stock that are owned or controlled by an unsuitable person or its affiliates. The redemption price will be the amount, if any, required by the gaming authority or, if the gaming authority does not determine the price, the sum deemed by the board of directors to be the fair value of the securities to be redeemed. If Wynn Resorts determines the redemption price, the redemption price will be capped at the closing price of the shares on the principal national securities exchange on which the shares are listed on the trading day before the redemption notice is given. If the shares are not listed on a national securities exchange, the redemption price will be capped at the closing sale price of the shares as quoted on The Nasdaq National Market or SmallCap Market, or if the closing price is not reported, the mean between the bid and asked prices, as quoted by any other generally recognized reporting system. Wynn Resorts’ right of redemption is not exclusive of any other rights that it may have or later acquire under any agreement, its bylaws or otherwise. The redemption price may be paid in cash, by promissory note, or both, as required, and pursuant to the terms established by, the applicable gaming authority and, if not, as Wynn Resorts elects.

Consequences of Violating Gaming Laws.    If the Nevada Gaming Commission decides that we have violated the Nevada Gaming Control Act or any of its regulations, it could limit, condition, suspend or revoke our registrations and gaming license. In addition, we and the persons involved could be subject to substantial fines for each separate violation of the Nevada Gaming Control Act, or of the regulations of the Nevada Gaming Commission, at the discretion of the Nevada Gaming Commission. Further, the Nevada Gaming Commission could appoint a supervisor to operate Wynn Las Vegas and, under specified circumstances, earnings generated during the supervisor’s appointment (except for the reasonable rental value of the premises) could be forfeited to the State of Nevada. Limitation, conditioning or suspension of any of our gaming licenses and the appointment of a supervisor could, and revocation of any gaming license would, have a significant negative effect on our gaming operations.

Requirements for Beneficial Securities Holders.    Regardless of the number of shares held, any beneficial holder of Wynn Resorts’ voting securities may be required to file an application, be investigated and have that person’s suitability as a beneficial holder of voting securities determined if the Nevada Gaming Commission has reason to believe that the ownership would otherwise be inconsistent with the declared policies of the State of Nevada. If the beneficial holder of the voting securities of Wynn Resorts who must be found suitable is a corporation, partnership, limited partnership, limited liability company or trust, it must submit detailed business and financial information including a list of its beneficial owners. The applicant must pay all costs of the investigation incurred by the Nevada Gaming Authorities in conducting any investigation.

The Nevada Gaming Control Act requires any person who acquires more than 5% of the voting securities of a registered company to report the acquisition to the Nevada Gaming Commission. The Nevada Gaming Control Act requires beneficial owners of more than 10% of a registered company’s voting securities to apply to the Nevada Gaming Commission for a finding of suitability within 30 days after the Chairman of the Nevada State Gaming Control Board mails the written notice requiring such filing. Under certain circumstances, an “institutional investor,” as defined in the Nevada Gaming Control Act, which acquires more than 10%, but not

 

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more than 15%, of the registered company’s voting securities may apply to the Nevada Gaming Commission for a waiver of a finding of suitability if the institutional investor holds the voting securities for investment purposes only. In certain circumstances, an institutional investor that has obtained a waiver may hold up to 19% of a registered company’s voting securities for a limited period of time and maintain the waiver. An institutional investor will not be deemed to hold voting securities for investment purposes unless the voting securities were acquired and are held in the ordinary course of business as an institutional investor and not for the purpose of causing, directly or indirectly, the election of a majority of the members of the board of directors of the registered company, a change in the corporate charter, bylaws, management, policies or operations of the registered company, or any of its gaming affiliates, or any other action which the Nevada Gaming Commission finds to be inconsistent with holding the registered company’s voting securities for investment purposes only. Activities which are not deemed to be inconsistent with holding voting securities for investment purposes only include:

 

   

voting on all matters voted on by stockholders or interest holders;

 

   

making financial and other inquiries of management of the type normally made by securities analysts for informational purposes and not to cause a change in its management, policies or operations; and

 

   

other activities that the Nevada Gaming Commission may determine to be consistent with such investment intent.

The articles of incorporation of Wynn Resorts include provisions intended to help it implement the above restrictions.

Consequences of Being Found Unsuitable.    Any person who fails or refuses to apply for a finding of suitability or a license within 30 days after being ordered to do so by the Nevada Gaming Commission or by the Chairman of the Nevada State Gaming Control Board, or who refuses or fails to pay the investigative costs incurred by the Nevada Gaming Authorities in connection with the investigation of its application, may be found unsuitable. The same restrictions apply to a record owner if the record owner, after request, fails to identify the beneficial owner. Any person found unsuitable and who holds, directly or indirectly, any beneficial ownership of any voting security or debt security of a registered company beyond the period of time as may be prescribed by the Nevada Gaming Commission may be guilty of a criminal offense. We will be subject to disciplinary action if, after we receive notice that a person is unsuitable to hold an equity interest or to have any other relationship with us, we:

 

   

pay that person any dividend or interest upon any voting securities;

 

   

allow that person to exercise, directly or indirectly, any voting right held by that person relating to Wynn Resorts;

 

   

pay remuneration in any form to that person for services rendered or otherwise; or

 

   

fail to pursue all lawful efforts to require the unsuitable person to relinquish such person’s voting securities including, if necessary, the immediate purchase of the voting securities for cash at fair market value.

Gaming Laws Relating to Debt Securities Ownership.    The Nevada Gaming Commission may, in its discretion, require the holder of any debt or similar securities of a registered company, to file applications, be investigated and be found suitable to own the debt or other security of the registered company if the Nevada Gaming Commission has reason to believe that such ownership would otherwise be inconsistent with the declared policies of the State of Nevada. If the Nevada Gaming Commission decides that a person is unsuitable to own the security, then under the Nevada Gaming Control Act, the registered company can be sanctioned, including the loss of its approvals if, without the prior approval of the Nevada Gaming Commission, it:

 

   

pays to the unsuitable person any dividend, interest or any distribution whatsoever;

 

   

recognizes any voting right by the unsuitable person in connection with the securities;

 

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pays the unsuitable person remuneration in any form; or

 

   

makes any payment to the unsuitable person by way of principal, redemption, conversion, exchange, liquidation or similar transaction.

Wynn Resorts is required to maintain a current stock ledger in Nevada which may be examined by the Nevada Gaming Authorities at any time. If any securities are held in trust by an agent or by a nominee, the record holder may be required to disclose the identity of the beneficial owner to the Nevada Gaming Authorities. A failure to make the disclosure may be grounds for finding the record holder unsuitable. We are required to render maximum assistance in determining the identity of the beneficial owner of any of Wynn Resorts’ voting securities. The Nevada Gaming Commission has the power to require the stock certificates of any registered company to bear a legend indicating that the securities are subject to the Nevada Gaming Control Act. The certificates representing shares of Wynn Resorts’ common stock note that the shares are subject to a right of redemption and other restrictions set forth in Wynn Resorts’ articles of incorporation and bylaws and that the shares are, or may become, subject to restrictions imposed by applicable gaming laws.

Approval of Public Offerings.    We may not make a public offering without the prior approval of the Nevada Gaming Commission if the proceeds from the offering are intended to be used to construct, acquire or finance gaming facilities in Nevada, or to retire or extend obligations incurred for those purposes or for similar transactions. On March 24, 2005, the Nevada Gaming Commission granted us and Wynn Las Vegas, LLC prior approval to make public offerings for a period of two years, subject to certain conditions (the “Shelf Approval”). The Shelf Approval also applies to any affiliated company wholly owned by us which is a publicly traded corporation or would thereby become a publicly traded corporation pursuant to a public offering. The Shelf Approval may be rescinded for good cause without prior notice upon the issuance of an interlocutory stop order by the Chairman of the Nevada State Gaming Control Board. The Shelf Approval does not constitute a finding, recommendation or approval by any of the Nevada Gaming Authorities as to the accuracy or adequacy of the offering memorandum or the investment merits of the securities. Any representation to the contrary is unlawful.

Approval of Changes in Control.    A registered company must obtain prior approval of the Nevada Gaming Commission with respect to a change in control through merger; consolidation; stock or asset acquisitions; management or consulting agreements; or any act or conduct by a person by which the person obtains control of the registered company.

Entities seeking to acquire control of a registered company must satisfy the Nevada State Gaming Control Board and Nevada Gaming Commission with respect to a variety of stringent standards before assuming control of the registered company. The Nevada Gaming Commission may also require controlling stockholders, officers, directors and other persons having a material relationship or involvement with the entity proposing to acquire control to be investigated and licensed as part of the approval process relating to the transaction.

Approval of Defensive Tactics.    The Nevada legislature has declared that some corporate acquisitions opposed by management, repurchases of voting securities and corporate defense tactics affecting Nevada gaming licenses or affecting registered companies that are affiliated with the operations of Nevada gaming licenses may be harmful to stable and productive corporate gaming. The Nevada Gaming Commission has established a regulatory scheme to reduce the potentially adverse effects of these business practices upon Nevada’s gaming industry and to further Nevada’s policy to:

 

   

assure the financial stability of corporate gaming operators and their affiliates;

 

   

preserve the beneficial aspects of conducting business in the corporate form; and

 

   

promote a neutral environment for the orderly governance of corporate affairs.

Approvals may be required from the Nevada Gaming Commission before a registered company can make exceptional repurchases of voting securities above their current market price and before a corporate acquisition opposed by management can be consummated. The Nevada Gaming Control Act also requires prior approval of a

 

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plan of recapitalization proposed by a registered company’s board of directors in response to a tender offer made directly to its stockholders for the purpose of acquiring control.

Fees and Taxes.    License fees and taxes, computed in various ways depending on the type of gaming or activity involved, are payable to the State of Nevada and to the counties and cities in which the licensed subsidiaries’ respective operations are conducted. Depending upon the particular fee or tax involved, these fees and taxes are payable either monthly, quarterly or annually and are based upon either:

 

   

a percentage of the gross revenue received;

 

   

the number of gaming devices operated; or

 

   

the number of table games operated.

A live entertainment tax also is imposed on admission charges and sales of food, beverages and merchandise where live entertainment is furnished.

Foreign Gaming Investigations.    Any person who is licensed, required to be licensed, registered, required to be registered, or is under common control with those persons (collectively, “licensees”), and who proposes to become involved in a gaming venture outside of Nevada, is required to deposit with the Nevada State Gaming Control Board, and thereafter maintain, a revolving fund in the amount of $10,000 to pay the expenses of investigation of the Nevada State Gaming Control Board of the licensee’s or registrant’s participation in such foreign gaming. The revolving fund is subject to increase or decrease at the discretion of the Nevada Gaming Commission. Licensees and registrants are required to comply with the foreign gaming reporting requirements imposed by the Nevada Gaming Control Act. A licensee or registrant is also subject to disciplinary action by the Nevada Gaming Commission if it:

 

   

knowingly violates any laws of the foreign jurisdiction pertaining to the foreign gaming operation;

 

   

fails to conduct the foreign gaming operation in accordance with the standards of honesty and integrity required of Nevada gaming operations;

 

   

engages in any activity or enters into any association that is unsuitable because it poses an unreasonable threat to the control of gaming in Nevada, reflects or tends to reflect, discredit or disrepute upon the State of Nevada or gaming in Nevada, or is contrary to the gaming policies of Nevada;

 

   

engages in activities or enters into associations that are harmful to the State of Nevada or its ability to collect gaming taxes and fees; or

 

   

employs, contracts with or associates with a person in the foreign operation who has been denied a license or finding of suitability in Nevada on the ground of unsuitability.

Licenses for Conduct of Gaming and Sale of Alcoholic Beverages.    The conduct of gaming activities and the service and sale of alcoholic beverages at Wynn Las Vegas are subject to licensing, control and regulation by the Clark County Liquor and Gaming Licensing Board, which has granted Wynn Las Vegas licenses for such purposes. In addition to approving Wynn Las Vegas, the Clark County Liquor and Gaming License Board has the authority to approve all persons owning or controlling the stock of any corporation controlling a gaming license. All licenses are revocable and are not transferable. The county agency has full power to limit, condition, suspend or revoke any license. Any disciplinary action could, and revocation would, have a substantial negative impact upon our operations.

Macau

General.    As a casino concessionaire, Wynn Macau, S.A. is subject to the regulatory control of the Government of Macau. The government has adopted Laws and Administrative Regulations governing the operation of casinos in Macau. Only concessionaires or subconcessionaires are permitted to operate casinos. To compete for concessions, candidates were required to tender proposals pursuant to procedures prescribing the

 

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content and timing of submissions and the evaluation criteria involved in the selection process. Applicants were evaluated according to suitability criteria, including their financial capacity, business experience and reputation, and the reputation of their affiliates and associates. Applicants were required to pay the costs of investigation and to make a deposit against such costs as part of the submission of proposals. The selection process included consultation and negotiation between the applicants and the Macau government, which selected the applicants that were awarded concessions. Subconcessions may be awarded subject to the approval of the Macau government and so far three such concessions have been awarded. Each concessionaire was required to enter into a concession agreement with the Macau government which, together with the Law and Administrative Regulations, forms the framework for the regulation of the activities of the concessionaire.

Under the Law and Administrative Regulations, concessionaires are subject to suitability requirements relating to background, associations and reputation, as are stockholders of 5% or more of a concessionaire’s equity securities, officers, directors and key employees. The same requirements apply to any entity engaged by a concessionaire to manage casino operations. Concessionaires are required to satisfy minimum capitalization requirements, to demonstrate and maintain adequate financial capacity to operate the concession and to submit to continuous monitoring of their casino operations by the Macau government. Concessionaires also are subject to periodic financial reporting requirements and reporting obligations with respect to, among other things, certain contracts, financing activities and transactions with directors, financiers and key employees. Transfers or the encumbering of interests in concessionaires must be reported to the Macau government and are ineffective without government approval.

Each concessionaire is required to engage an executive director who must be a permanent resident of Macau and the holder of at least 10% of the capital stock of the concessionaire. The appointment of the executive director and of any successor is ineffective without the approval of the Macau government. All contracts for the management of a concessionaire’s casino operation also are ineffective without the approval of the Macau government.

Concessionaires are subject to a special gaming tax of 35% of gross gaming revenue, and must also make an annual contribution of up to 4% of gross gaming revenue for the promotion of public interests, social security, infrastructure and tourism. Concessionaires also are obligated to withhold, subject to partial exemption, a 3% tax from any commissions paid to junket representatives. A junket representative is a person who, for the purpose of promoting casino gaming activity, arranges customer transportation, accommodations, food and beverage services and entertainment in exchange for commissions or other compensation from a concessionaire.

Macau law provides that junket representatives must be licensed by the Macau government in order to do business with and receive compensation from concessionaires. For a license to be obtained, direct and indirect stockholders of 5% or more of a junket representative’s equity securities (where applicable), its directors and its key employees must be found suitable. Applicants are required to pay the cost of license investigations, and are required to maintain suitability standards during the period of licensure. The term of a junket representative license is one year, and licenses can be renewed for additional periods upon the submission of renewal applications. Natural person junket representative licensees are subject to a suitability verification process every three years and business entity licensees are subject to the same requirement every six years.

Under Macau law, licensed junket representatives must identify outside contractors who assist them in junket activity. Such contractors are subject to disapproval by the Macau government. Changes in the management structure of business entity junket representative licensees must be reported to the Macau government and any transfer or the encumbering of interests in such licensees is ineffective without prior government approval. To conduct junket activity, junket representative licensees must be registered with one or more concessionaires and must have written contracts with such concessionaires, copies of which must be submitted to the Macau government.

Macau law further provides that concessionaires are jointly responsible with their junket representatives for the activities of such representatives and their directors and contractors in the concessionaires’ casinos, and for

 

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their compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Concessionaires must submit annual lists of their junket representatives for the following year, and must update such lists on a quarterly basis. The Macau government may designate a maximum number of junket representatives and specify the junket representatives a concessionaire is permitted to engage. Concessionaires are subject to periodic reporting requirements with respect to commissions paid to their junket representatives and are required to oversee their activities and report instances of unlawful activity.

The government of Macau may assume temporary custody and control over the operation of a concession in certain circumstances. During any such period, the costs of operations must be borne by the concessionaire. The government of Macau also may redeem a concession starting at an established date after the entering into effect of a concession. The government of Macau also may terminate a concession for cause, including, without limitation, failure of the concessionaire to fulfill its obligations under law or the concession contract.

Subconcessionaires are subject to the same conditions as the concessionaires including, but not limited to, the evaluation of suitability, financial capacity, business experience and reputation. As with concessionaires, sub-concessionaires must appoint a permanent resident holding 10% of the capital stock as executive director and must pay to the government of Macau the special gaming tax of 35% of gross revenue. The transfer or encumbering of an interest in the subconcessionaire is subject to prior approval of the Macau government.

Concession Agreement.    The concession agreement between Wynn Macau S.A. and the Macau government requires Wynn Macau, S.A. to construct and operate one or more casino gaming properties in Macau, including, at a minimum, one full-service casino resort by the end of December 2006, and to invest not less than a total of 4 billion patacas (approximately US $500 million) in Macau-related projects by June 2009. The obligation was satisfied with the opening of Wynn Macau.

Wynn Macau, S.A. was also obligated to obtain, and did obtain, a 700 million pataca (approximately US $87 million) bank guarantee from Banco National Ultramarino, S.A. (“BNU”) that is effective until March 31, 2007. The amount of this guarantee will be reduced to 300 million patacas (approximately US $37 million) for the period from April 1, 2007 until 180 days after the end of the term of the concession agreement. This guarantee, which is for the benefit of the Macau government, assures Wynn Macau, S.A.’s performance under the casino concession agreement, including the payment of premiums, fines and indemnity for any material failure to perform the concession agreement. Wynn Macau, S.A. is obligated, upon demand by BNU, to promptly repay any claim made on the guarantee by the Macau government. BNU is paid an annual fee by Wynn Macau, S.A. for the guarantee not to exceed 12.3 million patacas (approximately US $1.5 million).

The government of Macau may redeem the concession beginning on June 24, 2017, and in such event Wynn Macau, S.A. will be entitled to fair compensation or indemnity. The amount of such compensation or indemnity will be determined based on the amount of revenue generated during the tax year prior to the redemption multiplied for the remaining years under the consession.

The government of Macau may unilaterally rescind the concession if Wynn Macau, S.A. fails to fulfill its fundamental obligations under the concession agreement. The concession agreement expressly provides that the government of Macau may unilaterally rescind the concession agreement if Wynn Macau, S.A.:

 

   

conducts unauthorized games or activities that are excluded from its corporate purpose;

 

   

abandons or suspends gaming operations in Macau for more than seven consecutive days (or more than 14 days in a civil year) without justification;

 

   

defaults in payment of taxes, premiums, contributions or other required amounts;

 

   

does not comply with government inspections or supervision;

 

   

systematically fails to observe its obligations under the concession system;

 

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fails to maintain bank guarantees or bonds satisfactory to the government;

 

   

is the subject of bankruptcy proceedings or becomes insolvent;

 

   

engages in serious fraudulent activity, damaging to the public interest; or

 

   

repeatedly and seriously violates applicable gaming laws.

If the government of Macau unilaterally rescinds the concession agreement, Wynn Macau, S.A. will be required to compensate the government in accordance with applicable law, and the areas defined as casino under Macau law and all of the gaming equipment pertaining to the gaming operations of Wynn Macau will be transferred to the government without compensation. In addition, the government of Macau may, in the public interest, unilaterally terminate the concession at any time, in which case Wynn Macau, S.A. would be entitled to reasonable compensation.

Seasonality

We may experience fluctuations in revenues and cash flows from month to month, however, we do not expect that our business will be unusually impacted by seasonality.

Employees

As of December 31, 2006, we have a total of approximately 15,500 employees (including approximately 6,100 in Macau).

During 2006, we entered into a collective bargaining agreement with the Culinary and Bartenders Union local covering approximately 4,500 employees at Wynn Las Vegas. Certain other unions may seek to organize the workers at Wynn Las Vegas. Unionization, pressure to unionize or other forms of collective bargaining could increase our labor costs.

Intellectual Property

Our most important marks are our trademarks and service marks that use the name “WYNN”. Wynn Resorts has filed applications with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (“PTO”), to register a variety of the WYNN-related trademarks and service marks in connection with a variety of goods and services. These marks include “WYNN RESORTS,” “WYNN DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT,” “WYNN LAS VEGAS,” and “WYNN MACAU.” Some of the applications are based upon ongoing use and others are based upon a bona fide intent to use the marks in the future.

A common element of these marks is the use of the surname, “WYNN.” As a general rule, a surname (or a mark primarily constituting a surname) is not registerable unless the surname has acquired “secondary meaning.” To date, Wynn Resorts has been successful in demonstrating to the PTO such secondary meaning for the Wynn name in certain of the applications based upon Mr. Wynn’s prominence as a resort developer.

Federal registrations are not completely dispositive of the right to such marks. Third parties who claim prior rights with respect to similar marks may nonetheless challenge our right to obtain registrations or our use of the marks and seek to overcome the presumptions afforded by such registrations.

We have also filed applications with various foreign patent and trademark registries including registries in Macau, China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, certain European countries and various other jurisdictions throughout the world to register a variety of WYNN-related trademarks and service marks in connection with a variety of goods and services. These marks include many of the same marks filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office and include “WYNN MACAU,” “WYNN LAS VEGAS,” and “WYNN DIAMOND.” Some of the applications are based upon ongoing use and others are based upon a bona fide intent to use the marks in the future.

 

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The Company recognizes that its intellectual property assets, especially the logo version of “Wynn”, are among its most valuable assets. As a result, and in connection with expansion of the Company’s resorts and gaming activities outside the United States, the Company has undertaken a program to register its trademarks and other intellectual property rights in all relevant jurisdictions, some of which may pose a risk of unauthorized use or counterfeiting. The Company has retained counsel and will take all steps necessary to not only acquire but protect its intellectual property rights against such unauthorized use throughout the world.

On August 6, 2004, we entered into agreements with Mr. Wynn that confirm and clarify our rights to use the “Wynn” name and Mr. Wynn’s persona in connection with our casino resorts. Under a Surname Rights Agreement, Mr. Wynn has granted us an exclusive, fully paid-up, perpetual, worldwide license to use, and to own and register trademarks and service marks incorporating, the “Wynn” name for casino resorts and related businesses, together with the right to sublicense the name and marks to our affiliates. Under a Rights of Publicity License, Mr. Wynn has granted us the exclusive, royalty-free, worldwide right to use his full name, persona and related rights of publicity for casino resorts and related businesses, together with the ability to sublicense the persona and publicity rights to our affiliates, until October 24, 2017.

Forward-Looking Statements

The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a “safe harbor” for forward-looking statements. Certain information included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K contains statements that are forward-looking, including, but not limited to, statements relating to our business strategy and development activities as well as other capital spending, financing sources, the effects of regulation (including gaming and tax regulations), expectations concerning future operations, margins, profitability and competition. Any statements contained in this report that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, in some cases you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “would,” “could,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “continue” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. Such forward-looking information involves important risks and uncertainties that could significantly affect anticipated results in the future and, accordingly, such results may differ from those expressed in any forward-looking statements made by us. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to:

 

   

conditions precedent to funding under the agreements governing the disbursement of the proceeds of certain of our debt and equity offerings and borrowings under our credit facilities;

 

   

competition in the casino/hotel and resort industries;

 

   

completion of the second phase of our Wynn Macau casino resort on time and within budget;

 

   

completion of Encore on time and within budget;

 

   

our intention to fund a substantial portion of the development and construction costs of Encore with anticipated cash flows generated at Wynn Las Vegas;

 

   

doing business in foreign locations such as Macau (including the risks associated with Macau’s developing gaming regulatory framework);

 

   

new development and construction activities of competitors;

 

   

our limited operating history;

 

   

our dependence on Stephen A. Wynn and existing management;

 

   

our dependence on a limited number of properties for all of our cash flow;

 

   

leverage and debt service (including sensitivity to fluctuations in interest rates);

 

   

levels of travel, leisure and casino spending;

 

   

general domestic or international economic conditions;

 

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pending or future legal proceedings;

 

   

changes in federal or state tax laws or the administration of such laws;

 

   

changes in gaming laws or regulations (including the legalization of gaming in certain jurisdictions);

 

   

applications for licenses and approvals under applicable jurisdictional laws and regulations (including gaming laws and regulations);

 

   

the impact that an outbreak of an infectious disease, such as avian flu, or the impact of a natural disaster, such as the tsunami which struck southeast Asia in December 2004, may have on the travel and leisure industry; and

 

   

the consequences of the war in Iraq and other military conflicts in the Middle East and any future security alerts and/or terrorist attacks.

Further information on potential factors that could affect our financial condition, results of operations and business are included in this report and our other filings with the SEC. You should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which are based only on information currently available to us. We undertake no obligation to publicly release any revisions to such forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this report.

ITEM 1A.    RISK FACTORS

The following risk factors, among others, could cause our financial performance to differ significantly from the goals, plans, objectives, intentions and expectations expressed in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. If any of the following risks and uncertainties or other risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or not currently considered to be material actually occurs, our business, financial condition or operating results could be harmed substantially.

Risks Related to our Substantial Indebtedness

We are highly leveraged and future cash flow may not be sufficient for us to meet our obligations, and we might have difficulty obtaining more financing.

We have a substantial amount of consolidated debt in relation to our equity. As of December 31, 2006, we have total outstanding debt of approximately $2.4 billion. In addition our Wynn Las Vegas credit agreement permits us to incur additional indebtedness in connection with potential expansion plans under certain circumstances in the future. Our substantial indebtedness could have important consequences. For example:

 

   

if we fail to meet our payment obligations or otherwise default under the agreements governing our indebtedness, the lenders under those agreements will have the right to accelerate the indebtedness and exercise other rights and remedies against us. These rights and remedies include rights to:

 

   

repossess and foreclose upon the assets that serve as collateral,

 

   

initiate judicial foreclosure against us,

 

   

petition a court to appoint a receiver for us or for substantially all of our assets, and

 

   

if we are insolvent, initiate involuntary bankruptcy proceedings against us, in each case, subject to procedural restraints and limitations applicable to secured creditors generally and also those imposed by applicable gaming laws, rules and regulations;

 

   

we are required to use a substantial portion of our cash flow from the Wynn Las Vegas operations to service and amortize our Wynn Las Vegas indebtedness and to pay development and construction costs of Encore, which will reduce the available cash flow to fund working capital, other capital expenditures and other general corporate purposes;

 

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we may have a limited ability to respond to changing business and economic conditions and to withstand competitive pressures, which may affect our financial condition;

 

   

we may have a limited ability to obtain additional financing, if needed, to fund development and construction costs of Encore, satisfy working capital requirements, or pay for other capital expenditures, debt service or other obligations;

 

   

under our credit facilities, rates with respect to a portion of the interest we pay will fluctuate with market rates and, accordingly, our interest expense will increase if market interest rates increase;

Under the terms of the documents governing our debt facilities, in certain circumstances we will be permitted to incur additional indebtedness, including secured senior and subordinated indebtedness. If we incur additional indebtedness, the risks described above will be exacerbated.

The agreements governing our debt facilities contain covenants that restrict our ability to engage in certain transactions and may impair our ability to respond to changing business and economic conditions.

The agreements governing our debt facilities contain covenants that restrict our ability to engage in certain transactions and may impair our ability to respond to changing business and economic conditions. The debt facilities impose operating and financial restrictions on us and our restricted subsidiaries, including, among other things, limitations on the ability to:

 

   

pay dividends or distributions or repurchase equity;

 

   

incur additional debt;

 

   

make investments;

 

   

create liens on assets to secure debt;

 

   

enter into transactions with affiliates;

 

   

issue stock of, or member’s interests in, subsidiaries;

 

   

enter into sale-leaseback transactions;

 

   

engage in other businesses;

 

   

merge or consolidate with another company;

 

   

transfer and sell assets;

 

   

issue disqualified stock;

 

   

create dividend and other payment restrictions affecting subsidiaries; and

 

   

designate restricted and unrestricted subsidiaries.

The debt facilities require us to satisfy various financial covenants, which include minimum interest coverage and total debt to earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization. Future indebtedness or other contracts could contain financial or other covenants more restrictive than those applicable to the existing debt facilities.

Our ability to comply with these provisions may be affected by general economic conditions, industry conditions, and other events beyond our control. As a result, we may not be able to comply with these covenants. Our failure to comply with the covenants contained in the debt facilities, including failure as a result of events beyond our control, could result in an event of default, which could materially and adversely affect our operating results and our financial condition.

If there were an event of default under one of our debt instruments, the holders of the defaulted debt could cause all amounts outstanding with respect to that debt to be due and payable immediately. We cannot assure you

 

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that our assets or cash flow would be sufficient to fully repay borrowings under our outstanding debt instruments if accelerated upon an event of default, or that we would be able to repay, refinance or restructure the payments on those debt securities.

Our subsidiaries’ indebtedness is secured by a substantial portion of their assets.

Subject to applicable laws, including gaming laws, and certain agreed upon exceptions, our subsidiaries’ debt is secured by liens on substantially all of the assets of our subsidiaries. In the event of a default by any of our subsidiaries under their financing documents, or if certain of our subsidiaries experience insolvency, liquidation, dissolution or reorganization, the holders of our subsidiaries’ secured debt instruments would first be entitled to payment from their collateral security, and only then would holders of our subsidiaries’ unsecured debt be entitled to payment from their remaining assets.

Risks Related to our Business

A downturn in general economic conditions may adversely affect our results of operations.

Our business operations are affected by international, national and local economic conditions. A recession or downturn in the general economy, or in a region constituting a significant source of customers for our property, could result in fewer customers visiting, or spending less money at, our properties, which would adversely affect our revenues.

We have a limited operating history.

Our operations are subject to the significant business, economic, regulatory and competitive uncertainties and contingencies frequently encountered by new businesses in competitive environments, many of which are beyond our control. Because we have a limited operating history, it may be more difficult for us to prepare for and respond to these types of risks compared to a company with an established business. If we are not able to manage these risks successfully, it could negatively impact our operations.

We are entirely dependent on two properties for all of our cash flow, which subjects us to greater risks than a gaming company with more operating properties.

We are entirely dependent upon Wynn Las Vegas and Wynn Macau for all of our cash flow. As a result, we are subject to a greater degree of risk than a gaming company with more operating properties. The risks to which we have a greater degree of exposure include the following:

 

   

local economic and competitive conditions;

 

   

changes in local and state governmental laws and regulations, including gaming laws and regulations;

 

   

natural and other disasters;

 

   

a decline in the number of visitors to Las Vegas or Macau;

 

   

a decrease in gaming and non-gaming activities at Wynn Las Vegas or Wynn Macau; and

 

   

the outbreak of an infectious disease such as the avian flu.

Any of the factors outlined above could negatively affect our ability to generate sufficient cash flow to make payments with respect to our debt.

Our casino, hotel, convention and other facilities face intense competition.

Competition for Wynn Las Vegas.    The casino/hotel industry is highly competitive and additional developments are currently underway. Resorts located on or near the Las Vegas Strip compete with other Las

 

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Vegas Strip hotels and with other hotel casinos in Las Vegas on the basis of overall atmosphere, range of amenities, level of service, price, location, entertainment, theme and size. Wynn Las Vegas also competes with a large number of other hotels located in and near Las Vegas, as well as other resort destinations. Some of our competitors have established gaming operations, are subsidiaries or divisions of large public companies, and may have greater financial and other resources than we do.

Wynn Las Vegas also competes, to some extent, with other hotel/casino facilities in Nevada and in Atlantic City, riverboat gaming facilities in other states, casino facilities on Native American lands and elsewhere in the world, state lotteries, and other forms of gaming. The continued proliferation of Native American gaming in California could have a negative impact on our operations. The proliferation of gaming activities in other areas could significantly harm our business as well. In particular, the legalization of casino gaming in or near metropolitan areas from which we attract customers could have a negative effect on our business. In addition, new or renovated casinos in Macau or elsewhere in Asia could draw Asian gaming customers, including high-rollers, away from Wynn Las Vegas.

Competition for Wynn Macau.    Currently, there are 24 operating casinos in Macau. In addition, there are several large casino resorts currently under construction and development.

SJM, controlled by Stanley Ho, who through another entity controlled the monopoly concession to conduct gaming operations in Macau for more than 40 years, is one of the concessionaires and operates 17 of the 24 casinos that are currently operating in Macau. SJM recently opened a portion of the Grand Lisboa, a resort opposite the rear entrance of the Hotel Lisboa, one of the main competitors in Macau gaming. Las Vegas Sands Corp. opened the Sands Macao in May 2004 and is currently building the Venetian Macao Resort Hotel, an all-suites hotel, casino and convention center complex, with a Venetian-style theme similar to that of their Las Vegas property. MGM MIRAGE, in partnership with Pansy Ho, is building the MGM Grand Macau, a resort on the Macau peninsula adjacent to Wynn Macau expected to open in late 2007. Also, a joint venture consisting of Melco, a Hong Kong stock exchange-listed company, and PBL, is currently developing the Crown Macau and a large resort in Cotai, called City of Dreams. Crown Macau, located in Taipa, is anticipated to open in 2007.

Our casino concession agreement permits the government to grant additional concessions for the operation of casinos after April 1, 2009. If the government of Macau awards additional concessions or permits additional sub-concessionaires, Wynn Macau will face increased competition from casino operators in Macau. Wynn Macau also faces competition from casinos located in other areas of Asia, such as Genting Highlands Resort, a major gaming and resort destination located outside of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and casinos in the Philippines, as well as pachinko and pachislot parlors in Japan. Wynn Macau also encounters competition from other major gaming centers located around the world, including Australia and Las Vegas, cruise ships in Asia that offer gaming, and other casinos throughout Asia. Further, if current efforts to legalize gaming in Thailand or Penghu, Taiwan are successful or if the reported large-scale new casino entertainment complex proposed in Manila, Philippines is developed, Wynn Macau will face additional regional competition.

Our business relies on high-end, international customers to whom we often extend credit, and we may not be able to collect gaming receivables from our credit players or credit play may decrease.

General.    A significant portion of our table game revenue at Wynn Las Vegas and at Wynn Macau is attributable to the play of a limited number of international customers. The loss or a reduction in the play of the most significant of these customers could have a substantial negative effect on our future operating results. A downturn in economic conditions in the countries in which these customers reside could cause a reduction in the frequency of visits by and revenue generated from these customers.

We conduct our gaming activities on a credit as well as a cash basis. This credit is unsecured. Table games players typically are extended more credit than slot players, and high-stakes players typically are extended more credit than patrons who tend to wager lower amounts. High-end gaming is more volatile than other forms of

 

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gaming, and variances in win-loss results attributable to high-end gaming may have a positive or negative impact on cash flow and earnings in a particular quarter.

In addition, the collectibility of receivables from international customers could be negatively affected by future business or economic trends or by significant events in the countries in which these customers reside. We will extend credit to those customers whose level of play and financial resources, in the opinion of management, warrant such an extension.

Wynn Las Vegas.    While gaming debts evidenced by a credit instrument, including what is commonly referred to as a “marker,” and judgments on gaming debts are enforceable under the current laws of Nevada, and judgments on gaming debts are enforceable in all states under the Full Faith and Credit Clause of the United States Constitution, other jurisdictions may determine that direct or indirect enforcement of gaming debts is against public policy. Although courts of some foreign nations will enforce gaming debts directly and the assets in the United States of foreign debtors may be used to satisfy a judgment, judgments on gaming debts from U.S. courts are not binding on the courts of many foreign nations. We cannot assure you that we will be able to collect the full amount of gaming debts owed to us, even in jurisdictions that enforce gaming debts. Our inability to collect gaming debts could have a significant negative impact on our operating results.

Wynn Macau.    Although the law in Macau was changed to permit casino operators to extend credit to gaming customers, Wynn Macau may not be able to collect all of its gaming receivables from its credit players. We expect that Wynn Macau will be able to enforce these obligations only in a limited number of jurisdictions, including Macau. To the extent that gaming customers of Wynn Macau are expected to be visitors from other jurisdictions, Wynn Macau may not have access to a forum in which it will be able to collect all of its gaming receivables because, among other reasons, courts of many jurisdictions do not enforce gaming debts and Wynn Macau may encounter forums that will refuse to enforce such debts. Wynn Macau’s inability to collect gaming debts could have a significant negative impact on its operating results.

Currently, the gaming tax in Macau is calculated as a percentage of gross gaming revenue. However, unlike Nevada, the gross gaming revenue calculation in Macau does not include deductions for credit losses. As a result, if we extend credit to our customers in Macau and are unable to collect on the related receivables from them, we would have to pay taxes on our winnings from these customers even though we were unable to collect on the related receivables from them. If the laws are not changed, our business in Macau may not be able to realize the full benefits of extending credit to our customers. Although there are proposals to revise the gaming tax regulations in Macau, there can be no assurance that the regulations will be changed.

We are subject to extensive state and local regulation, and licensing and gaming authorities have significant control over our operations, which could have a negative effect on our business.

General.    The operations of Wynn Las Vegas and Wynn Macau are contingent upon our obtaining and maintaining all regulatory licenses, permits, approvals, registrations, findings of suitability, orders and authorizations. The laws, regulations and ordinances requiring these licenses, permits and other approvals generally relate to the responsibility, financial stability and character of the owners and managers of gaming operations, as well as persons financially interested or involved in gaming operations. The scope of the approvals required to open and operate a facility is extensive. We received all approvals and opened Wynn Las Vegas on April 28, 2005, and are subject to ongoing regulation to maintain its operation. We opened Wynn Macau on September 6, 2006, and are subject to ongoing regulation to maintain its operation.

Wynn Las Vegas.    The Nevada Gaming Commission may, in its discretion, require the holder of any securities we issue to file applications, be investigated and be found suitable to own Wynn Resorts’ securities if it has reason to believe that the security ownership would be inconsistent with the declared policies of the State of Nevada.

 

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Nevada regulatory authorities have broad powers to request detailed financial and other information, to limit, condition, suspend or revoke a registration, gaming license or related approval and to approve changes in our operations. Substantial fines or forfeiture of assets for violations of gaming laws or regulations may be levied. The suspension or revocation of any license which may be granted to us or the levy of substantial fines or forfeiture of assets could significantly harm our business, financial condition and results of operations. Furthermore, compliance costs associated with gaming laws, regulations and licenses are significant. Any change in the laws, regulations or licenses applicable to our business or a violation of any current or future laws or regulations applicable to our business or gaming licenses could require us to make substantial expenditures or could otherwise negatively affect our gaming operations.

Wynn Resorts’ articles of incorporation provide that, to the extent a gaming authority makes a determination of unsuitability or to the extent deemed necessary or advisable by the board of directors, Wynn Resorts may redeem shares of its capital stock that are owned or controlled by an unsuitable person or its affiliates. The redemption price may be paid in cash, by promissory note, or both, as required, and pursuant to the terms established by, the applicable gaming authority and, if not, as Wynn Resorts elects.

Wynn Macau.    Wynn Macau’s operations are subject to unique risks, including risks related to Macau’s developing regulatory framework. Wynn Macau may need to develop operating procedures which are different from those used in United States casinos. Failure to adapt to the regulatory and gaming environment in Macau could result in the revocation of Wynn Macau, S.A.’s concession or otherwise negatively affect its operations in Macau. Moreover, we would be subject to the risk that Macau’s gaming regulatory framework will not develop in a way that would permit us as a United States gaming operator, to conduct operations in Macau in a manner consistent with the way in which we intend, or the Nevada gaming authorities require us, to conduct our operations in the United States.

Terrorism and the uncertainty of military conflicts, as well as other factors affecting discretionary consumer spending, may harm our operating results.

The strength and profitability of our business depends on consumer demand for hotel casino resorts in general and for the type of luxury amenities Wynn Las Vegas and Wynn Macau offer. Changes in consumer preferences or discretionary consumer spending could harm our business. The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, other terrorist activities in the United States and elsewhere, military conflicts in Iraq and in the Middle East, and past outbreaks of infectious disease have had negative impacts on travel and leisure expenditures, including lodging, gaming and tourism. We cannot predict the extent to which similar events and conditions may continue to affect us, directly or indirectly, in the future. An extended period of reduced discretionary spending and/or disruptions or declines in airline travel and business conventions could significantly harm our operations. In particular, because our business will rely heavily upon high-end customers, particularly international customers, factors resulting in a decreased propensity to travel internationally could have a negative impact on our operations.

In addition to terrorist activities, military conflicts, the outbreak of infectious diseases such as the avian flu or the impact of a natural disaster such as a tsunami or typhoon, other factors affecting travel and discretionary consumer spending, including general economic conditions, disposable consumer income, fears of recession and reduced consumer confidence in the economy, may negatively impact our business. Negative changes in factors affecting discretionary spending could reduce customer demand for the products and services we offer, thus imposing practical limits on pricing and harming our operations.

Our insurance coverage may not be adequate to cover all possible losses that we could suffer, and our insurance costs may increase.

The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 have substantially affected the availability of insurance coverage for certain types of damages or occurrences. We currently have insurance coverage for occurrences of

 

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terrorist acts with respect to Wynn Las Vegas and Wynn Macau for up to $500 million at each location for losses that could result from these acts. However, these types of acts could expose us to losses that exceed our coverage and could have a significant negative impact on our operations.

In addition, insurance premiums have increased on available coverage, and we may not have sufficient insurance coverage in the event of a catastrophic property or casualty loss. We may also suffer disruption of our business in the event of a terrorist attack or other catastrophic property or casualty loss or be subject to claims by third parties injured or harmed. While we currently carry general liability insurance and business interruption insurance, such insurance may not be adequate to cover all losses in such event. In the event that insurance premiums continue to increase, we may not be able to maintain the insurance coverages we currently have or otherwise be able to maintain adequate insurance protection.

If a third party successfully challenges our ownership of, or right to use, the Wynn-related service marks, our business or results of operations could be harmed.

We have filed applications with the PTO, to register a variety of WYNN-related trademarks and service marks in connection with a variety of goods and services. These marks include “WYNN LAS VEGAS” and “WYNN MACAU.” Some of the applications are based upon ongoing use and others are based upon a bona fide intent to use the marks in the future.

A common element of these marks is the use of the surname, “WYNN.” As a general rule, a surname (or a mark primarily constituting a surname) cannot be registered unless the surname has acquired “secondary meaning.” To date, we have been successful in demonstrating to the PTO such secondary meaning for the Wynn name, in certain of the applications, based upon Mr. Wynn’s prominence as a resort developer, but we cannot assure you that we will be successful with the other pending applications.

Even if we are able to obtain registration of the WYNN-related marks, such federal registrations are not completely dispositive of the right to such marks. Third parties who claim prior rights with respect to similar marks may nonetheless challenge our right to obtain registrations or our use of the marks and seek to overcome the presumptions afforded by such registrations.

We have also filed applications with various foreign patent and trademark registries including registries in Macau, China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, certain European countries and various other jurisdictions throughout the world to register a variety of WYNN-related trademarks and service marks in connection with a variety of goods and services. These marks include many of the same marks filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office and include “WYNN MACAU” and “WYNN LAS VEGAS.” Some of the application are based upon ongoing use and others are based upon a bona fide intent to use the marks in the future.

The Company recognizes that its intellectual property assets, especially the logo version of “Wynn”, are among its most valuable assets. As a result, and in connection with expansion of the Company’s resorts and gaming activities outside the United States, the Company has undertaken a program to register its trademarks and other intellectual property rights in all relevant jurisdictions, some of which may pose a risk of unauthorized use or counterfeiting. The Company has retained counsel and will take all steps necessary to not only acquire but protect its intellectual property rights against such unauthorized use throughout the world.

If a third party asserts other forms of intellectual property claims against us, our business or results of operations could be adversely affected.

Historically, trademarks and service marks have been the principal form of intellectual property right of relevance to the gaming industry. However, due to the increased use of technology in computerized gaming machines and in business operations generally, other forms of intellectual property rights (such as patents and copyrights) are becoming of increased relevance. It is possible that, in the future, third parties might assert

 

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superior intellectual property rights or allege that their intellectual property rights cover some aspect of our operations. The defense of such allegations may result in substantial expenses, and, if such allegations should be true, may have a material impact on our business.

The loss of Stephen A. Wynn could significantly harm our business.

Our ability to maintain our competitive position is dependent to a large degree on the efforts and skills of Stephen A. Wynn, the Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and one of the principal stockholders of Wynn Resorts. In 2004, we extended the term of Mr. Wynn’s employment agreement until October 2017. However, we cannot assure you that Mr. Wynn will remain with us. If we lose the services of Mr. Wynn, or if he is unable to devote sufficient attention to our operations for any other reason, our business may be significantly impaired. In addition, if Mr. Wynn is no longer either employed by us as Chief Executive Officer or serving as Chairman of the Board, other than as a result of death or disability or other limited circumstances, it would constitute a change of control that would require Wynn Las Vegas to offer to repay the First Mortgage Notes and would constitute an event of default under its credit facilities and Wynn Macau, S.A.’s credit facilities.

Our two largest stockholders are able to exert significant control over our operations and future direction.

Mr. Wynn and Aruze USA, Inc. each own approximately 24.1% of our currently issued and outstanding common stock. As a result, Mr. Wynn and Aruze USA, Inc., to the extent they vote their shares in a similar manner, may be able to control all matters requiring our stockholders’ approval, including the approval of significant corporate transactions.

On November 13, 2006, the Board of Wynn Resorts approved an amendment of its bylaws that exempts future acquisitions of shares of Wynn Resorts’ common stock by either Mr. Wynn or Aruze USA, Inc. from Nevada’s control share acquisition statute. The Nevada acquisition of controlling interest statutes require stockholder approval in order to exercise voting rights in connection with any acquisition of a controlling interest in certain Nevada corporations unless the articles of incorporation or bylaws of the corporation in effect on the 10th day following the acquisition of a controlling interest by certain acquiring persons provide that these statutes do not apply to the corporation or to the acquisition specifically by types of existing or future stockholders. These statutes define a “controlling interest” as (i) one-fifth or more but less than one-third, (ii) one-third or more but less than a majority, or (iii) a majority or more, of the voting power in the election of directors. As a result of the bylaw amendment, either Mr. Wynn or Aruze USA, Inc. or their respective affiliates may acquire ownership of outstanding voting shares of Wynn Resorts permitting them to exercise more than one-third but less than a majority, or a majority or more, of all the voting power of the corporation in the election of directors, without requiring a resolution of the stockholders of the corporation granting voting rights in the control shares acquired.

Mr. Wynn and Aruze USA, Inc., together with Baron Asset Fund, have entered into a stockholders’ agreement. Under the stockholders’ agreement, Mr. Wynn and Aruze USA, Inc., have agreed to vote their shares of our common stock for a slate of directors, a majority of which will be designated by Mr. Wynn, of which at least two will be independent directors, and the remaining members of which will be designated by Aruze USA, Inc. As a result of this voting arrangement, Mr. Wynn, as a practical matter, controls the slate of directors to be elected to our board of directors. In addition, in November 2006 this agreement was amended to require the written consent of both Mr. Wynn and Aruze prior to either party selling any shares of Wynn Resorts that they own.

Because we own real property, we are subject to extensive environmental regulation, which creates uncertainty regarding future environmental expenditures and liabilities.

We have incurred costs to comply with environmental requirements, such as those relating to discharges to air, water and land, the handling and disposal of solid and hazardous waste and the cleanup of properties affected by hazardous substances. Under these and other environmental requirements we may be required to investigate

 

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and clean up hazardous or toxic substances or chemical releases at our property. As an owner or operator, we could also be held responsible to a governmental entity or third parties for property damage, personal injury and investigation and cleanup costs incurred by them in connection with any contamination.

These laws typically impose cleanup responsibility and liability without regard to whether the owner or operator knew of or caused the presence of the contaminants. The liability under those laws has been interpreted to be joint and several unless the harm is divisible and there is a reasonable basis for allocation of the responsibility. The costs of investigation, remediation or removal of those substances may be substantial, and the presence of those substances, or the failure to remediate a property properly, may impair our ability to use our property.

Risks Associated with Wynn Macau

A number of new casino resort developments underway or planned for the near future will require us to compete for limited labor resources in Macau.

We recruited a substantial number of new employees for the opening of Wynn Macau and must be able retain them in order to have a successful operation. Wynn Macau competes with the large number of new casino resort developments currently underway in Macau and expected in the near future for the limited qualified employees. We will have to seek employees from other countries to adequately staff Wynn Macau. We cannot be certain that we will be able to recruit and retain a sufficient number of qualified employees for our Wynn Macau operations.

The development costs of Wynn Macau are estimates only, and actual development costs may be higher than expected.

We expect the total development costs of Wynn Macau, excluding Wynn Diamond Suites, to be approximately $1.2 billion, including the budgeted design and construction costs, cost of the land payments (through opening), capitalized interest, pre-opening expenses and all financing fees. The required cash interest payments and commitment fees on the bank facility which will become due through the estimated commencement date of operations of Wynn Macau have been included in our estimate of the total development costs.

While we believe that the overall budget for the development costs of Wynn Macau is reasonable, these development costs are estimates and the actual development costs may be higher than expected. Although we have certain owners’ contingencies set aside to cover cost overruns, these contingencies may not be sufficient to cover the full amount of such overruns. If these contingencies are not sufficient to cover these costs, we may not have the funds required to pay the excess costs.

Not all of the construction costs of Wynn Macau are covered by a guaranteed maximum price construction contract, and we will be responsible for any cost overruns of these excluded items.

We have entered into a guaranteed maximum price construction contract for the design and construction of Wynn Macau with Leighton Contractors (Asia) Limited, China State Construction Engineering (Hong Kong) Limited and China Construction Engineering (Macau) Company Limited, acting together as general contractor (“Leighton/China State”). The contract covers approximately $484 million of the budgeted $685 million design and construction costs for Wynn Macau. We are responsible for cost overruns with respect to any budgeted components that are not part of the amended guaranteed maximum price contract.

The financial resources of our contractor may be insufficient to fund cost overruns or liquidated damages for which it is responsible under the amended guaranteed maximum price contract.

Under the terms and subject to the conditions and limitations of the guaranteed maximum price construction contract, Leighton/China State is responsible for all construction costs covered by the construction contract that

 

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exceed the approximately $484 million guaranteed maximum price contained in the contract. The parent companies of the contractor have provided a continuing guaranty by which they guarantee the contractor’s full performance under the construction contract until final payment under that contract. We cannot assure you that the contractor or its parent companies will have sufficient financial resources to fund any cost overruns or liquidated damages for which they are responsible under the guaranteed maximum price contract. Furthermore, neither is contractually obligated to maintain the financial resources to cover cost overruns. If they do not have the resources to meet their obligations and we are unable to obtain funds from them in a timely manner, we may need to pay these excess costs in order to complete construction of Wynn Macau.

Wynn Macau may be affected by adverse political and economic conditions.

The success of Wynn Macau will depend on political and economic conditions in Macau. In December 1999, after approximately 450 years of Portuguese control, Portugal returned Macau to Chinese administration. The People’s Republic of China established Macau as a special administrative region. As a result of this change in control, Macau’s legislative, regulatory, legal, economic and cultural institutions are in a period of transition. We cannot predict how these systems and cultural institutions will develop, or how developments would affect the business of Wynn Macau.

Wynn Macau’s operations are subject to significant political, economic and social risks inherent in doing business in an emerging market. For example, fiscal decline and civil, domestic or international unrest in Macau, China or the surrounding region could significantly harm Wynn Macau’s business, not only by reducing customer demand for casino resorts, but also by increasing the risk of imposition of taxes and exchange controls or other governmental restrictions that might impede its ability to repatriate funds.

Macau may not have an adequate transportation infrastructure to accommodate the demand from future development.

Because of additional casino projects which are under construction and to be developed in the future, the ferry and helicopter services which provide transportation between Macau and Hong Kong may need to be expanded to accommodate the increased visitation of Macau. If transportation facilities to and from Macau are inadequate to meet the demands of an increased volume of gaming customers visiting Macau, the desirability of Macau as a gaming destination, as well as the results of operations of Wynn Macau, could be negatively impacted.

Extreme weather conditions may have an adverse impact on Wynn Macau.

Macau’s subtropical climate and location on the South China Sea are subject to extreme weather conditions including typhoons and heavy rainstorms. Unfavorable weather conditions could negatively affect the profitability of Wynn Macau by disrupting our ability to timely construct the project and by preventing guests from traveling to Macau.

An outbreak of the avian influenza (“avian flu” or “bird flu”), Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (“SARS”) or other contagious disease may have an adverse effect on the economies of certain Asian countries and may adversely affect our results of operations.

During 2004, large parts of Asia experienced unprecedented outbreaks of avian flu. In particular, Guangdong Province, PRC, which is located across the Zhuhai Bridge from Macau, has confirmed several cases of avian flu. Currently, no fully effective avian flu vaccines have been developed and there can be no assurance that an effective vaccine can be discovered in time to protect against a potential avian flu pandemic. In the first half of 2003, certain countries in Asia experienced an outbreak of SARS, a highly contagious form of atypical pneumonia, which seriously interrupted economic activities and caused the demand for goods to plummet in the affected regions. There can be no assurance that an outbreak of avian flu, SARS or other contagious disease or

 

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the measures taken by the governments of affected countries against such potential outbreaks, will not seriously interrupt our gaming operations or visitation to Macau, which may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. The perception that an outbreak of avian flu, SARS or other contagious disease may occur again may also have an adverse effect on the economic conditions of countries in Asia.

Our investment in Macau may be subject to potential taxation.

Our investment in Macau is owned through a number of wholly owned and partially owned domestic and foreign entities. Although we believe that transfers to these entities of the assets and stock of the Wynn Macau companies were accomplished on a tax-free basis, there is a risk that the Internal Revenue Service could assert that any appreciation in the transferred assets or stock was taxable at the time of such transfers.

Currency exchange controls and currency export restrictions could negatively impact Wynn Macau.

Currency exchange controls and restrictions on the export of currency by certain countries may negatively impact the success of Wynn Macau. For example, there are currently existing currency exchange controls and restrictions on the export of the renminbi, the currency of China. Restrictions on the export of the renminbi may impede the flow of gaming customers from China to Macau, inhibit the growth of gaming in Macau and negatively impact Wynn Macau’s gaming operations.

Any violation of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act could have a negative impact on Wynn Macau.

We are subject to regulations imposed by the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (the “FCPA”), which generally prohibits U.S. companies and their intermediaries from making improper payments to foreign officials for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business. Any determination that we have violated the FCPA could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition.

The Macau government can terminate our concession under certain circumstances without compensation to us, which would have a material adverse effect on our operations and financial condition.

The Macau government has the right to unilaterally terminate our concession in the event of our material non-compliance with the basic obligations under the concession and applicable Macau laws. The concession agreement expressly provides that the government of Macau may unilaterally rescind the concession agreement if Wynn Macau, S.A.:

 

   

conducts unauthorized games or activities that are excluded from its corporate purpose;

 

   

suspends gaming operations in Macau for more than seven consecutive days (or more than 14 days in a civil year) without justification;

 

   

defaults in payment of taxes, premiums, contributions or other required amounts;

 

   

does not comply with government inspections or supervision;

 

   

systematically fails to observe its obligations under the concession system;

 

   

fails to maintain bank guarantees or bonds satisfactory to the government;

 

   

is the subject of bankruptcy proceedings or becomes insolvent;

 

   

engages in serious fraudulent activity, damaging to the public interest; or

 

   

repeatedly violates applicable gaming laws.

If the government of Macau unilaterally rescinds the concession agreement, Wynn Macau, S.A. will be required to compensate the government in accordance with applicable law, and the areas defined as casino space

 

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under Macau law and all of the gaming equipment pertaining to the gaming operations of Wynn Macau will be transferred to the government without compensation. The loss of our concession would prohibit us from conducting gaming operations in Macau, which could have a material adverse effect on our operations and financial condition.

We will stop generating any revenues from our Macau gaming operations if we cannot secure an extension of our concession in 2022 or if the Macau government exercises its redemption right in 2017.

Our concession agreement expires in June 2022. Unless our concession is extended, on that date, all of our casino operations and related equipment in Macau will be automatically transferred to the Macau government without compensation to us and we will cease to generate any revenues from these operations. Beginning in June 2017, the Macau government may redeem the concession agreement by providing us at least one year’s prior notice. In the event the Macau government exercises this redemption right, we are entitled to fair compensation or indemnity. The amount of such compensation or indemnity will be determined based on the amount of revenue generated during the tax year prior to the redemption. We cannot assure you that we will be able to renew or extend our concession agreement on terms favorable to us or at all. We also cannot assure you that if our concession is redeemed, the compensation paid will be adequate to compensate us for the loss of future revenues.

The Macau government has the ability to grant additional rights to conduct gaming in the future, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

We hold a concession under one of only three gaming concessions and three sub-concessions authorized by the Macau government to operate casinos in Macau, and the Macau government is precluded from granting any additional gaming concessions until 2009. However, we cannot assure you that the laws will not be changed to permit the Macau government to grant additional gaming concessions before 2009. If the Macau government were to allow additional competitors to operate in Macau through the grant of additional concessions or subconcessions, we would face additional competition, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

Certain Nevada gaming laws would apply to Wynn Macau’s planned gaming activities and associations.

Certain Nevada gaming laws also apply to gaming activities and associations in jurisdictions outside the State of Nevada. As we develop Wynn Macau, we and our subsidiaries that must be licensed to conduct gaming operations in Nevada will be required to comply with certain reporting requirements concerning gaming activities and associations in Macau conducted by our Macau-related subsidiaries. We and our licensed Nevada subsidiaries also will be subject to disciplinary action by the Nevada Gaming Commission if our Macau-related subsidiaries:

 

   

knowingly violate any Macau laws relating to their Macau gaming operations;

 

   

fail to conduct Wynn Macau’s operations in accordance with the standards of honesty and integrity required of Nevada gaming operations;

 

   

engage in any activity or enter into any association that is unsuitable for us because it poses an unreasonable threat to the control of gaming in Nevada, reflects or tends to reflect discredit or disrepute upon the State of Nevada or gaming in Nevada, or is contrary to Nevada gaming policies;

 

   

engage in any activity or enter into any association that interferes with the ability of the State of Nevada to collect gaming taxes and fees; or

 

   

employ, contract with or associate with any person in the foreign gaming operation who has been denied a license or a finding of suitability in Nevada on the ground of unsuitability, or who has been found guilty of cheating at gambling.

 

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Such disciplinary action could include suspension, conditioning, limitation or revocation of the registration, licenses or approvals held by us and our licensed Nevada subsidiaries, including Wynn Las Vegas, LLC, and the imposition of substantial fines.

In addition, if the Nevada State Gaming Control Board determines that any actual or intended activities or associations of our Macau-related subsidiaries may be prohibited pursuant to one or more of the standards described above, the Nevada State Gaming Control Board can require us and our licensed Nevada subsidiaries to file an application with the Nevada Gaming Commission for a finding of suitability of the activity or association. If the Nevada Gaming Commission finds that the activity or association in Macau is unsuitable or prohibited, our Macau-related subsidiaries will either be required to terminate the activity or association, or will be prohibited from undertaking the activity or association. Consequently, should the Nevada Gaming Commission find that our Macau-related subsidiary’s gaming activities or associations in Macau are unsuitable, those subsidiaries may be prohibited from undertaking their planned gaming activities or associations in Macau, or be required to divest their investment in Macau, possibly on unfavorable terms.

Unfavorable changes in currency exchange rates may increase Wynn Macau’s obligations under the concession agreement and cause fluctuations in the value of our investment in Macau.

The currency delineated in Wynn Macau’s concession agreement with the government of Macau is the Macau pataca. The Macau pataca, which is not a freely convertible currency, is linked to the Hong Kong dollar, and in many cases the two are used interchangeably in Macau. The Hong Kong dollar is linked to the U.S. dollar and the exchange rate between these two currencies has remained relatively stable over the past several years. However, the exchange linkages of the Hong Kong dollar and the Macau pataca, and the Hong Kong dollar and the U.S. dollar, are subject to potential changes due to, among other things, changes in Chinese governmental policies and international economic and political developments.

We cannot assure you that the Hong Kong dollar, and the Macau pataca will continue to be linked to the U.S. dollar, which may result in severe fluctuations in the exchange rate for these currencies. We also cannot assure you that the current rate of exchange fixed by the applicable monetary authorities for these currencies will remain at the same level.

Because many of Wynn Macau’s payment and expenditure obligations are in Macau patacas, in the event of unfavorable Macau pataca or Hong Kong dollar rate changes, Wynn Macau’s obligations, as denominated in U.S. dollars, would increase. In addition, because we expect that most of the revenues for any casino that Wynn Macau operates in Macau will be in Hong Kong dollars, we are subject to foreign exchange risk with respect to the exchange rate between the Hong Kong dollar and the U.S. dollar. Also, if any of our Macau-related entities incur U.S. dollar-denominated debt, fluctuations in the exchange rates of the Macau pataca or the Hong Kong dollar, in relation to the U.S. dollar, could have adverse effects on Wynn Macau’s ability to service its debt, its results of operations and its financial condition.

Risks Associated with the Construction and Development of Encore

The development costs of Encore are estimates only, and actual development costs may be higher than expected.

The current project budget for Encore is estimated at approximately $2.1 billion. While we believe that the estimated development costs for Encore are reasonable, these development costs are estimates and the actual development costs may be higher than expected. Although we will have certain owners’ contingencies to cover cost overruns, these contingencies may not be sufficient to cover the full amount of such overruns. If these contingencies are not sufficient to cover these costs, we may not have the funds required to pay the excess costs and would be dependent upon Wynn Resorts, which is not a guarantor of debt, to contribute additional capital to achieve final completion of the project. Wynn Resorts has no operations except for those of its subsidiaries, which are not obligated to satisfy any obligations or liabilities of Wynn Resorts.

 

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We intend to fund a substantial portion of the development costs of Encore and our substantial debt service and other obligations with cash flows generated at Wynn Las Vegas, which may not be sufficient to fund such development costs and debt service obligations.

Our ability to fund a substantial portion of the development costs of Encore, and to make interest payments under the credit facilities, the first mortgage notes and any other indebtedness, is dependent on our ability to generate sufficient cash flow from our operations at Wynn Las Vegas. We cannot assure you that Wynn Las Vegas will continue to be able to generate sufficient cash flow to fund such development costs and make the interest payments under the credit facilities, the first mortgage notes and any other indebtedness. Our ability to generate cash flow depends on many factors, including:

 

   

our operating performance;

 

   

the demand for services that we provide;

 

   

general economic conditions and economic conditions affecting Nevada or the hotel/casino industry in particular;

 

   

our ability to hire and retain employees at a reasonable cost;

 

   

competition; and

 

   

legislative and regulatory factors affecting our operations and business.

Some of these factors are beyond our control. Any inability to generate sufficient cash flows to fund the development of Encore or meet our debt service obligations would have a material adverse effect on our operating results and financial condition. In addition, the financing documents for our Wynn Macau project contain restrictions on the distribution to Wynn Resorts of any cash flow generated by the Wynn Macau casino. Thus, any cash flow generated by Wynn Macau may not be available to fund development costs of Encore or service our debt.

There are significant risks associated with major construction projects that may prevent completion of Encore on schedule and within budget.

Major construction projects of the scope and scale of Encore entail significant risks, including:

 

   

shortages of materials or skilled labor;

 

   

unforeseen engineering, environmental and/or geological problems;

 

   

work stoppages;

 

   

weather interference;

 

   

unanticipated cost increases; and

 

   

unavailability of construction equipment.

Construction, equipment or staffing problems or difficulties in obtaining any of the requisite licenses, permits and authorizations from regulatory authorities could increase the total cost, delay or prevent the construction or opening or otherwise affect the design and features of Encore.

We anticipate that only some of the subcontractors engaged for these projects will post bonds guaranteeing timely completion of a subcontractor’s work and payment for all of that subcontractor’s labor and materials. These bonds may not be adequate to ensure completion of the work.

Encore may not commence operations on schedule or construction costs for this project may exceed budgeted amounts. Failure to complete this project on schedule or within budget may have a significant negative effect on us and on our ability to make payments on our debt.

 

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Simultaneous construction of Encore and expansion of Wynn Macau may stretch management time and resources and may impact Wynn Las Vegas.

Both the development and construction for Encore and the second phase of Wynn Macau continue. Since there is some overlap of the development and construction of these projects, members of our senior management are simultaneously involved in planning and developing both of these projects which may divert management resources from the construction and/or opening of either project. Management’s inability to devote sufficient time and attention to any one project may delay the construction or opening of either or both of the projects. Any delay caused by such circumstances could have a negative effect on our business and operations.

In addition, although we intend to construct Encore with minimal impact on Wynn Las Vegas, we cannot assure you that the construction will not disrupt the operations of Wynn Las Vegas or that it will be implemented as planned. Therefore, the construction of Encore may adversely impact the business, operations and revenues of Wynn Las Vegas.

There are conditions precedent to the funding of the remaining components of the financing for Encore.

We expect that the remaining proceeds from the first mortgage notes issued by Wynn Las Vegas, LLC, together with availability under the Wynn Las Vegas credit facilities, cash flow from operations from Wynn Las Vegas, additional debt which may be raised and the equity commitment from Wynn Resorts, will be sufficient to fund Encore’s current project budget estimate of approximately $2.1 billion.

We have entered into a disbursement agreement with the agent under the credit facilities and the trustee under the indenture for the first mortgage notes, which sets forth the sequence of funding and establishes conditions for the disbursement of funds for the Encore project. Our ability to borrow, from time to time, under the Wynn Las Vegas credit facilities and receive advances from the notes proceeds account is subject to various conditions precedent set forth in the disbursement agreement.

We cannot be sure that we will be able to satisfy the conditions to funding at the time drawdowns are required to make payments of our construction costs. Satisfaction of various conditions is subject to the discretion of the disbursement agent and the lenders under the credit facilities and/or their consultants and agent and may therefore be beyond our control. Failure to satisfy the conditions to the drawdowns under the credit facilities could impact our ability to develop and construct Encore. We may not have access to alternative sources of funds necessary to develop and construct Encore on satisfactory terms.

ITEM 1B.    UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

None.

ITEM 2.    PROPERTIES

Las Vegas Land

We currently own approximately 235 acres of land on or near the Las Vegas Strip. This consists of approximately 55 acres at the northeast corner of the intersection of Las Vegas Boulevard and Sands Avenue, an additional parcel of approximately 20 acres fronting Las Vegas Boulevard next to the Wynn Las Vegas site on which we are constructing Encore, the approximately 142-acre golf course behind Wynn Las Vegas, and approximately 18 acres located across from the Wynn Las Vegas site at Koval Lane and Sands Avenue, which is currently being used for employee parking and on a portion of which we have constructed a multi-level employee parking garage.

 

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Las Vegas Water Rights

We own approximately 934 acre-feet of permitted domestic and recreation water rights, which we currently use to irrigate the golf course, subject to proof of beneficial use and approval of the State of Nevada Division of Water Resources. We also own approximately 52 acre-feet of permitted (and some certificated) quasi-municipal water rights, which are used to supply the water for the Wynn Las Vegas lake/mountain feature, subject to proof of beneficial use and approval of the State of Nevada Division of Water Resources. There are significant cost savings and conservation benefits associated with using water supplied pursuant to our water rights. We anticipate using our water rights to support future development of the golf course land.

Macau Land Concession

The government of Macau owns most of the land in Macau and, in most cases, private interests in real property located in Macau are obtained only through long-term leases and other grants of rights to use land from the government. In July 2004, our subsidiary, Wynn Macau, S.A., entered into a land concession contract under which Wynn Macau, S.A. leases from the Macau government an approximately 16-acre parcel of land in downtown Macau’s inner harbor area, opposite the Hotel Lisboa, Macau’s best-known hotel casino. The term of the land concession contract is 25 years, and it may be renewed with government approval for successive periods. Wynn Macau, S.A. is obligated to pay, in 10 semi-annual installments, a total land concession premium of approximately 319.4 million patacas (approximately US $40 million) plus interest at 5%. Annual rents of approximately 2.2 million patacas (approximately US $275,000) for the first two years and 3.2 million patacas (approximately US $395,000) thereafter will also be paid in accordance with the land concession contract. In addition, during 2004, Wynn Macau, S.A. paid a third party affiliated with Stanley Ho approximately 144.2 million patacas (approximately US $18 million) for relinquishing its rights to use a portion of that site.

In addition, we have submitted an application to the Macau government for a concession of land in Cotai for future development. We recently reconfigured our site plan for 52 acres and are awaiting final approval.

ITEM 3.    LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

We are occasionally party to lawsuits. As with all litigation, no assurance can be provided as to the outcome of such matters and we note that litigation inherently involves significant costs. We are not currently party to any material legal proceedings.

ITEM 4.    SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

There were no matters submitted to a vote of our security holders during the fourth quarter of 2006.

 

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PART II

 

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

Market Information

Our common stock trades on the NASDAQ exchange under the symbol “WYNN.” The following table sets forth the high and low sale prices for the indicated periods, as reported by the NASDAQ National Market Securities.

 

     High      Low

Year Ended December 31, 2006

       

First Quarter

   $ 78.75      $ 52.44

Second Quarter

   $ 80.19      $ 64.87

Third Quarter

   $ 78.86      $ 60.82

Fourth Quarter

   $ 98.45      $ 66.52

Year Ended December 31, 2005

       

First Quarter

   $ 76.45      $ 60.40

Second Quarter

   $ 68.00      $ 42.32

Third Quarter

   $ 58.20      $ 43.27

Fourth Quarter

   $ 61.50      $ 42.06

Holders

There were approximately 15,552 beneficial holders of our common stock as of February 16, 2007.

Dividends

On November 13, 2006 our Board of Directors declared a special one-time distribution of $6.00 per common share which was paid on December 4, 2006.

Wynn Resorts is a holding company and, as a result, its ability to pay dividends is dependent on its subsidiaries’ ability to provide funds to it. Restrictions imposed by Wynn Resorts subsidiaries’ debt instruments significantly restrict certain key subsidiaries holding a majority of our assets, including Wynn Las Vegas, LLC and Wynn Macau, S.A. from making dividends or distributions to Wynn Resorts. Specifically, Wynn Las Vegas, LLC and certain of its subsidiaries are restricted under the indenture governing the first mortgage notes from making certain “restricted payments,” as defined in the indenture. These restricted payments include the payment of dividends or distributions to any direct or indirect holders of equity interests of Wynn Las Vegas, LLC. These restricted payments cannot be made unless certain financial and non-financial criteria have been satisfied. In addition, the terms of the other loan agreements of Wynn Las Vegas, LLC and Wynn Macau, S.A. contain similar restrictions.

Debenture Conversions

Our convertible debentures are currently convertible at each holder’s option into shares of the Company’s common stock at a conversion price of $23.00 per share (equivalent to 43.4782 shares per $1,000 principal amount). During the fourth quarter of 2006, we issued 1,434 shares of common stock upon the conversion of $33,000 of convertible debentures.

 

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ITEM 6.    SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

The following tables reflect the selected consolidated financial data of Wynn Resorts and its subsidiaries or Valvino Lamore, LLC, its predecessor. This data should be read together with Wynn Resorts’ Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto, “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and the other information contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Operating results for the periods presented are not indicative of the results that may be expected for future years. Significant events impacting our operational results during 2006 and 2005 include:

 

   

On September 6, 2006, we opened our Wynn Macau resort.

 

   

On April 28, 2006, we commenced construction of Encore.

 

   

On April 28, 2005, we opened our Wynn Las Vegas resort.

 

   

Prior to April 28, 2005, we were solely a development stage company.

 

     Years Ended December 31,  
     2006    2005     2004     2003     2002  
     (in thousands, except per share amounts)  

Consolidated Statement of Operations Data:

           

Net Revenues

   $ 1,432,257    $ 721,981     $ 195     $ 643     $ 544  

Pre-opening costs

   $ 62,726    $ 96,940     $ 81,321     $ 46,744     $ 24,532  

Operating income/(loss)

   $ 70,899    $ (24,556 )   $ (89,798 )   $ (53,335 )   $ (34,400 )

Net income/(loss)[1]

   $ 628,728    $ (90,836 )   $ (204,171 )   $ (40,099 )   $ (31,713 )

Basic income/(loss) per share

   $ 6.29    $ (0.92 )   $ (2.35 )   $ (0.50 )   $ (0.68 )

Diluted income/(loss) per share

   $ 6.24    $ (0.92 )   $ (2.35 )   $ (0.50 )   $ (0.68 )
     As of December 31,  
     2006    2005     2004     2003     2002  
     (in thousands, except per share amounts)  

Consolidated Balance Sheet Data:

           

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 789,407    $ 434,289     $ 330,261     $ 341,552     $ 109,644  

Restricted cash and

investments[2]

   $ 237,386    $ 442,602     $ 942,367     $ 400,432     $ 792,877  

Construction in progress

   $ 345,377    $ 286,570     $ 1,499,284     $ 570,988     $ 90,189  

Total assets

   $ 4,660,180    $ 3,945,283     $ 3,464,413     $ 1,733,323     $ 1,398,601  

Total long-term obligations[3]

   $ 2,419,992    $ 2,137,082     $ 1,660,169     $ 659,319     $ 382,697  

Stockholders’ equity

   $ 1,645,585    $ 1,562,895     $ 1,644,492     $ 1,001,815     $ 991,613  

Cash distribution declared per common share

   $ 6.00      N/A       N/A       N/A       N/A  

[1] Net income for 2006 includes a pre-tax gain on sale of subconcession right of $899.4 million.

 

[2] Restricted cash and investments primarily reflects the proceeds of our debt and equity financings that are restricted for the construction of Encore, Wynn Las Vegas and Wynn Macau.

 

[3] Includes the current portion of long-term debt amounting to approximately $6.1 million, $15.5 million, $718,000, $41,000, and $38,000 as of December 31, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003, and 2002, respectively. December 31, 2006, 2005 and 2004 also includes approximately $7.4 million, $9 million and $9.5 million, respectively, for the current portion of the required contract premium payments under our land concession contract relating to Wynn Macau.

 

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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Overview

We are a developer, owner and operator of destination casino resorts. We currently own and operate Wynn Las Vegas, a destination casino resort in Las Vegas, Nevada, which opened on April 28, 2005, and Wynn Macau, a destination casino resort in the Macau Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China (“Macau”), which opened on September 6, 2006. In addition, on April 28, 2006, we commenced construction of Encore at Wynn Las Vegas (“Encore”), a hotel casino resort which, when completed, will be fully integrated with Wynn Las Vegas. We are also currently expanding Wynn Macau and in November 2006, announced “Wynn Diamond Suites” an additional hotel tower for Wynn Macau. Until the opening of Wynn Las Vegas in 2005, we were solely a development stage company.

Our Resorts

The following table sets forth information about our operating properties as of February 2007:

 

    

Hotel Rooms &

Suites

  

Approximate Casino

Square Footage

   Number of Table
Games
   Number of Slots

Wynn Las Vegas

   2,716    111,000    132    1,974

Wynn Macau

   600    110,000    256    477

Wynn Las Vegas

We believe Wynn Las Vegas is the preeminent destination casino resort on the Strip in Las Vegas. Wynn Las Vegas features:

 

   

An approximately 111,000 square foot casino offering a full range of games, including private baccarat salons, a poker room, and a race and sports book;

 

   

Luxury hotel accommodations in 2,716 spacious hotel rooms, suites and villas (In 2006, the Tower Suites at Wynn Las Vegas became the only casino resort in the world to receive both the Mobil five star and AAA five diamond distinctions);

 

   

22 food and beverage outlets featuring signature chefs, including the AAA Five Diamond and Mobil Five Star award-winning restaurant, Alex;

 

   

A Ferrari and Maserati automobile dealership;

 

   

Approximately 74,000 square feet of high-end, brand-name retail shopping, including stores and boutiques featuring Brioni, Chanel, Dior, Graff, Louis Vuitton, Jean-Paul Gaultier and Manolo Blahnik;

 

   

Recreation and leisure facilities, including an 18-hole golf course, five swimming pools, private cabanas and full service spa and salon; and

 

   

Showroom, nightclub and lounge entertainment.

The resort, which is located at the intersection of the Las Vegas Strip and Sands Avenue, occupies approximately 217 acres of land fronting the Las Vegas Strip and utilizes approximately 18 additional acres across Sands Avenue for employee parking.

In response to our evaluation of the completed Wynn Las Vegas project and the reactions of our guests, we began to make enhancements and refinements to Wynn Las Vegas in the third quarter of 2005 which continued throughout 2006. During the year ended December 31, 2006, we remodeled the six North Fairway Villas, several areas of the retail promenade, a portion of the baccarat area to feature a casino bar and improved public baccarat space along with private baccarat salons, converted the Keno lounge to a retail outlet for womens’ accessories

 

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and our ladies shoe boutique in the retail esplanade. In March 2007, we intend to remodel the Le Reve Theatre, decreasing the seat count from 2,087 to 1,606 and further enhancing the guest experience. We expect the remodel effort to last approximately 30 days during which there will be no performances of Le Reve.

Encore at Wynn Las Vegas

We are constructing Encore on approximately 20 acres on the Las Vegas Strip, immediately adjacent to Wynn Las Vegas. Encore’s current plans include a 2,034 all-suite hotel tower fully integrated with Wynn Las Vegas, an approximately 72,000 square foot casino, additional convention and meeting space, as well as restaurants, a nightclub, swimming pools, a spa and salon and retail outlets. We continue to refine the final design of Encore. Encore is expected to open in early 2009.

Our project budget is currently estimated at approximately $2.1 billion, consisting of approximately $2.0 billion for Encore and approximately $100 million for an employee parking garage on our Koval property, an associated pedestrian bridge and costs incurred in connection with the theatre remodeling and production of “Monty Python’s Spamalot” at Wynn Las Vegas. The budget has increased from the previously announced $1.74 billion due to refinements in scope and market conditions for construction materials. The project budget will be funded from our existing credit facilities, remaining proceeds from the first mortgage notes and operating cash flow from Wynn Las Vegas. To the extent additional funds are required, we will provide these amounts with additional debt and equity contributions by Wynn Resorts. On March 31, 2006, Wynn Resorts delivered an equity commitment to its bank lenders under which Wynn Resorts is obligated to pay project costs if Wynn Las Vegas is unable to. As of August 2006, Wynn Resorts’ obligation under the equity commitment was $70 million.

On February 27, 2007, we entered into a Design Build Architectural, Engineering and Construction Services Agreement (the “Contract”) with Tutor-Saliba Corporation (“Tutor”) for the design and construction of Encore. The Contract sets forth all of the terms and conditions pursuant to which Tutor will design and construct Encore. In addition to the terms and conditions governing the design and construction of Encore, the Contract provides that the parties will negotiate a guaranteed maximum price (the Encore “GMP”) for the construction and design of Encore within 90 days of execution of the Contract. If the parties cannot mutually agree upon a GMP during the 90 day period, the Company can, at its option, (a) continue to employ Tutor for construction and design services on a cost-plus basis, (b) agree to alternative arrangements with Tutor or (c) terminate the Contract. In connection with the execution and delivery of the Contract, Tutor and the Ronald N. Tutor Separate Trust (the “Trust”) have entered into and consented to a Net Worth Agreement pursuant to which (x) the Trust agreed that it will retain its current majority holdings of Tutor and (y) the Trust and Tutor agreed that during the term of the Contract, Tutor will maintain (i) net worth of at least $100 million, and (ii) liquid assets of at least $50 million.

Wynn Macau

We opened Wynn Macau on September 6, 2006. Wynn Macau is located on 11 acres of a total site area of 16 acres of land and features:

 

   

An approximately 110,000 square foot casino offering 24-hour gaming and a full range of games, including private gaming salons, approximately 256 table games and approximately 477 slot machines;

 

   

Luxury hotel accommodations in 600 rooms and suites;

 

   

Casual and fine dining in five restaurants;

 

   

Approximately 26,000 square feet of high-end, brand-name retail shopping, including stores and boutiques featuring Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Dior, Fendi, Giorgio Armani, Tiffany, Bulgari, Piaget and others;

 

   

Recreation and leisure facilities, including a health club, pool and spa; and

 

   

Entertainment lounges and meeting facilities.

Construction and development continues on the second phase. This phase includes approximately 123,000 square feet of additional gaming space, a dramatic front feature attraction, a theater showroom and additional

 

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food, beverage and retail amenities, which we expect to open in the third quarter of 2007. After the completion of the expansion, Wynn Macau is expected to have a total of approximately 420 table games and 1,280 slot machines.

In addition, we continue to develop the plans and budget for the further expansion of Wynn Macau, which was first announced in November 2006. This further expansion will add a second self-contained, fully-integrated resort hotel named “Wynn Diamond Suites,” as well as gaming areas, food and beverage, retail and entertainment amenities. We continue to work on a budget and final design for Wynn Diamond Suites.

We operate Wynn Macau under a 20-year casino concession agreement granted by the Macau government in June 2002. In September 2006, we sold the right to a subconcession to operate games of chance in Macau, to Publishing & Broadcasting, Ltd. (“PBL”) for $900 million.

Cotai Development

We have submitted an application to the Macau government for a concession of land in Cotai. We recently reconfigured our site plan for 52 acres and are awaiting final approval.

Results of Operations

Our results of operations for the periods presented are not comparable for the following reasons:

 

   

On September 11, 2006, Wynn Macau completed the sale of a Macau subconcession right and received a cash payment of $900 million.

 

   

On September 6, 2006, we opened Wynn Macau and began generating operating cash flow from this project;

 

   

On April 28, 2005, we opened Wynn Las Vegas and began generating operating cash flow;

 

   

Prior to April 28, 2005, we were solely a development stage company;

Accordingly, our results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2006 include a full period of operations for Wynn Las Vegas and 117 days of operations for Wynn Macau. In contrast, the year ended December 31, 2005 includes 248 days of Wynn Las Vegas operations only. The table below displays our net revenues for the years ended December 31, 2006 and 2005 (amounts in thousands).

 

     For the Year Ended
December 31,
     2006    2005

Net Revenues:

     

Wynn Las Vegas

   $ 1,138,549    $ 721,981

Wynn Macau

     293,708      —  
             

Total Net revenues

   $ 1,432,257    $ 721,981
             

The reliance on our operating cash flow from only two properties exposes us to certain risks that competitors, whose operations are more diversified, may be better able to control. In addition to the concentration of operations in two properties, many of our customers are high-end gaming customers who wager on credit, thus exposing us to increased credit risk. High-end gaming also increases the potential for variability in our results.

Operating Measures

Certain key operating statistics specific to the gaming industry are included in our discussions of the Company’s operational performance for the periods presented. Casinos generally record win as a percentage of

 

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either drop or turnover. In our casino operations at Wynn Las Vegas, table games win is recorded as a percentage of drop. However, in our casino operations at Wynn Macau, we separate table play into two distinct segments. Our Macau VIP casino segment records table games win as a percentage of turnover, whereas our general casino records win as a percentage of drop.

Below are definitions of the statistics discussed:

 

   

“Table games win” is the amount of drop or turnover that is retained and recorded as casino revenue.

 

   

“Drop” is the amount of cash or net markers issued that are deposited in a gaming table’s drop box.

 

   

“Turnover” is the sum of all losing wagers within our Wynn Macau VIP program.

 

   

“Slot win” is the amount of handle (representing the total amount wagered) that is retained by Wynn Las Vegas or Wynn Macau and is recorded as casino revenue.

 

   

“Average Daily Rate” (“ADR”) is calculated by dividing total room revenue (less service charges, if any) by total rooms occupied.

 

   

“Revenue per Available Room” (“REVPAR”) is calculated by dividing total room revenue (less service charges, if any) by total rooms available.

Financial results for the year ended December 31, 2006 compared to financial results for the year ended December 31, 2005.

Revenues

Net revenues for the year ended December 31, 2006 are comprised of $800.6 million in casino revenues (55.9% of total net revenues) and $631.7 million of net non-casino revenues (44.1% of total net revenues). Net revenues for the 248 days of operations for the year ended December 31, 2005 were comprised of $353.7 million in net casino revenues (49.0% of total net revenues) and $368.3 million of net non-gaming revenues (51.0% of total net revenues). The quality of our resorts’ non-gaming amenities, combined with providing guests an unparalleled total resort experience, has driven a premium in the two properties’ ADR and other non-gaming revenues.

Casino revenues are comprised of the net win from our table games and slot machine operations. Casino revenues for the year ended December 31, 2006 were approximately $800.6 million, which represents approximately a $446.9 million (or 126.4%) increase from the casino revenues of $353.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2005. The increase in casino revenues is driven primarily by the opening of Wynn Macau in September 2006 and Wynn Las Vegas being open for all of 2006 as opposed to only 248 days in 2005. At Wynn Las Vegas, the average table games win percentage (before discounts) of 22.1% was within the expected range of 20% to 23% for the year ended December 31, 2006 compared to 21.5% in the prior year. Slot handle at Wynn Las Vegas for 2006 increased as compared to 2005, however the slot win percentage for 2006 was slightly below the expected range of 5% to 6%. Wynn Macau’s win percentage for the VIP casino segment of 2.4% of turnover was below the expected range of 2.5% to 2.8%. However, turnover, the leading volume indicator in the VIP casino, met management’s expectations. The average table games win percentage at the general casino at Wynn Macau of 17.1% of drop was at the lower end of the expected range of 17% to 19%, and the volume of table game play was as expected. We believe that the results of operations for the first 117 days of operations for Wynn Macau are not indicative of results to be expected in the future. We expect that over time hold percentages will normalize and that operating efficiencies will emerge.

For the year ended December 31, 2006, room revenues were approximately $283.1 million, which represents a $112.8 million (or 66.2%) increase over the $170.3 million generated in the 248 days of operations for the year ended December 31, 2005. The increase is primarily driven by Wynn Las Vegas being open for the

 

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full year as opposed to 248 days of operations in 2005, as well as Wynn Macau’s 117 days of operations in 2006. See the table below for key operating measures related to room revenue.

 

       For the Year Ended
December 31,
 
       2006      2005  

Average Daily Rate

       

Wynn Las Vegas

     $ 287      $ 274  

Wynn Macau

     $ 238        N/A  

Occupancy

       

Wynn Las Vegas

       94.4 %      92.1 %

Wynn Macau

       80.6 %      N/A  

REVPAR

       

Wynn Las Vegas

     $ 271      $ 253  

Wynn Macau

     $ 192        N/A  

Other non-casino revenues for the year ended December 31, 2006 included food and beverage revenues of approximately $309.8 million, retail revenues of approximately $87.7 million, entertainment revenues of approximately $66.3 million, and other revenues from outlets, including the spa and salon, of approximately $51.2 million. Other non-casino revenues for the 248 days of operations for the year ended December 31, 2005 included food and beverage revenues of approximately $173.7 million, retail revenues of approximately $51.2 million, entertainment revenues of approximately $41.8 million, and other revenues from outlets, including the spa and salon, of approximately $32.2 million. The additional revenue earned in Wynn Macau’s 117 days of operations during 2006 contributed to the increase in the food and beverage and retail revenues. In addition, food and beverage revenues in 2006 benefited significantly from increased revenues from the nightclub located in Wynn Las Vegas as compared to the 2005 food and beverage revenues.

Departmental, Administrative and Other Expenses

During the year ended December 31, 2006, departmental expenses included casino expenses of $439.9 million, rooms expenses of $73.9 million, food and beverage expenses of $194.4 million, and entertainment, retail and other expenses of $134.5 million. Also included are general and administrative expenses of approximately $231.5 million and approximately $21.2 million charged as a provision for doubtful accounts receivable. During the year ended December 31, 2005, departmental expenses included casino expenses of $155.1 million, room expenses of $44.2 million, food and beverage expenses of $118.7 million, and entertainment, retail and other expenses of $80.2 million. Also included are general and administrative expenses of approximately $119.0 million and approximately $16.2 million charged as a provision for doubtful accounts receivable. The increase in expenses is due primarily to the inclusion of 117 days of the operations of Wynn Macau and increases in Wynn Las Vegas expenses commensurate with the increase in revenues.

In addition, on January 1, 2006, we adopted Statement of Accounting Standard (“SFAS”) No. 123R, “Share-Based Payments”, using the modified prospective method. For the year ended December 31, 2006, we recorded $15.4 million of share based compensation expense which is included in the department of the recipient of the stock based award. Prior to January 1, 2006, we did not recognize expense for employee stock options that were granted at the market price. See our Consolidated Financial Statements Note 15 for more information.

Pre-opening costs

Pre-opening costs for the year ended December 31, 2006 were $62.7 million compared to $96.9 million for the prior year. Wynn Macau, which opened on September 6, 2006, accounted for $60.5 million of the current year pre-opening costs while the balance relates primarily to Encore. Pre-opening costs during the year ended December 31, 2005 related primarily to Wynn Las Vegas which opened on April 28, 2005 and Wynn Macau. We

 

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expect that Wynn Macau’s pre-opening expenses will continue during 2007, although at lesser amounts, as construction and development of the second phase continues toward the expected completion in the third quarter of 2007. In addition, as Encore progresses, pre-opening expenses related to this project will increase as the opening approaches.

Depreciation and amortization

Depreciation and amortization for the year ended December 31, 2006 of $175.5 million increased by $72.1 million compared to the year ended December 31, 2005 primarily due to including a full year for Wynn Las Vegas and an additional 117 days of operations of Wynn Macau. Wynn Las Vegas only recorded 248 days of depreciation in 2005.

The maximum useful life of assets at Wynn Macau is the remaining life of the gaming concession or land concession, which currently expire in June 2022 and 2029, respectively. Consequently, depreciation for long-lived assets related to Wynn Macau is charged generally over shorter useful lives when compared to Wynn Las Vegas.

During the construction of Wynn Las Vegas and Wynn Macau, costs incurred in the construction of the buildings, improvements to land and the purchases of assets for use in operations were capitalized. Once these properties opened, their assets were placed into service and we began recognizing the associated depreciation expense. The depreciation expenses will continue throughout the estimated useful lives of these assets.

Contract Termination Fee

In February 2006, we agreed with the producers of “Avenue Q” to end Avenue Q’s exclusive Las Vegas run at Wynn Las Vegas’ Broadway Theatre at the end of May 2006. To terminate the contract, we paid a termination fee of $5 million. This fee was recorded in the first quarter of 2006. We have remodeled the Broadway Theater and adjacent areas in anticipation of commencing performances of “Monty Python’s Spamalot” in the first quarter of 2007.

Property charges and other

Property charges and other for the year ended December 31, 2006 of $25.1 million increased by $10.8 million compared to the year ended December 31, 2005.

In response to our evaluation of the completed Wynn Las Vegas project and the reactions of our guests, we began to make enhancements and refinements to Wynn Las Vegas in the third quarter of 2005 which continued throughout 2006. Costs relating to assets retired as a result of these enhancements and remodel efforts for the year ended December 31, 2006 of $14.4 million have been expensed as property charges. During the year ended December 31, 2006, we remodeled the six North Fairway Villas, several areas of the retail promenade, a portion of the baccarat area to feature a casino bar, improved public baccarat space and private baccarat salons, converted the Keno lounge to a retail outlet for womens’ accessories, and remodeled our ladies’ shoe boutique in the retail esplanade. In March 2007, we intend to remodel the Le Reve Theatre, decreasing the seat count from 2,087 to 1,606 and further enhancing the guest experience. We expect the remodel effort to last approximately 30 days during which time there will be no performances of Le Reve.

Although Wynn Las Vegas’ property charges have decreased in recent quarters, we expect that enhancements and refinements to Wynn Macau will take place in response to reactions from our customers in that market. Accordingly, we expect that Company property charges may increase in future periods.

In December 2006, Wynn Macau donated an early Ming dynasty vase to the Macau Museum. We purchased the vase in May 2006 for approximately $10.1 million. The vase had been on public display at Wynn Macau

 

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prior to its donation to the museum. The $10.1 million expense for the donation of the Ming Vase is included in Property charges and other for the year ended December 31, 2006.

Other non-operating costs and expenses

Interest and other income of $46.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2006 increased by $18.5 million from the year ended December 31, 2005. This increase is primarily due to higher interest rates earned on cash balances compared to 2005, as well as interest earned on the PBL proceeds.

Interest expense, net of capitalized interest of $29.5 million was $148.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2006 compared to $102.7 million, net of capitalized interest of $50.0 million for the same period in 2005. This increase is due to the increase in our borrowings in Macau, slightly higher interest rates and the $20.5 million decrease in interest capitalized once Wynn Las Vegas and Wynn Macau opened.

Our interest rate swaps are accounted for in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 133, Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, as amended (“SFAS 133”). On August 15, 2006, concurrent with the refinancing of Wynn Las Vegas, LLC’s senior credit facilities (See “Liquidity and Capital Resources—Financing Activities”), we terminated a $200 million notional amount interest rate swap relating to Wynn Las Vegas, LLC’s senior credit facilities. The fair value of our interest rate swaps are recorded as either assets or liabilities. Changes in the fair value of our interest rate swaps are recorded as non-operating income or expense in each period. We recorded approximately $1.2 million of interest rate swap income for the year ended December 31, 2006 resulting from the increase in the fair value of our interest rate swaps from December 31, 2005 to December 31, 2006 (December 31, 2005 to August 15, 2006 in the case of the terminated swap). During the year ended December 31, 2005 we recorded a gain of $8.2 million resulting from the increase in the fair value of interest rate swaps between December 31, 2004 and December 31, 2005. For further information on our interest rate swaps, see Part II- Item 7A. “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk.”

Loss from extinguishment of debt totaled $12.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2006. On August 15, 2006 we refinanced our Wynn Las Vegas senior credit facilities as discussed in further detail below (See “Liquidity and Capital Resources—Financing Activities”). As a result of the refinancing and resulting modification of the Term Loan, we recorded a loss from extinguishment of debt for the year ended December 31, 2006 of approximately $10.8 million to reflect the write-off of the previous Term Loan’s unamortized deferred financing costs. In addition, on November 1, 2006, we redeemed the remaining approximate $10.1 million of our Second Mortgage Notes and incurred a $1.7 million redemption premium which is also included as loss from extinguishment of debt.

On November 13, 2006, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a special one-time cash distribution of $6.00 per share on its outstanding common stock. This special one-time distribution was paid on December 4, 2006, to stockholders of record as of November 23, 2006. As part of this distribution, the Company made a special payment to the holders of its Debentures so that they participated in the special distribution as if they had converted their Debentures to common stock prior to the record date. The Company paid holders of the Debentures a cash amount equal to $260.87 per $1,000 principal amount, or $58.5 million in total. In accordance with the indenture governing the Debentures, as a result of the payment, no adjustment was made to the conversion price as a result of the special cash distribution. The payment was recorded as a distribution to convertible debenture holders in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Gain on sale of subconcession right

On March 4, 2006, we entered into an agreement with PBL pursuant to which we agreed to sell to PBL for $900 million, the right to negotiate with the government of Macau for a subconcession to allow PBL to operate casinos in Macau.

 

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On September 8, 2006, the government of Macau approved the subconcession and on September 11, 2006, PBL paid $900 million in cash to Wynn Macau, S.A. for the subconcession right. As a result of the sale and the subconcession awarded to PBL by the government of Macau, we have no continuing rights or obligations with respect to the subconcession. All rights and obligations under the subconcession are between PBL and the government of Macau. The proceeds from this sale, net of related costs, are recorded as gain on sale of subconcession right, net in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2006.

Income Taxes

For the year ended December 31, 2006, our effective tax rate was approximately 21.3%. This rate was lower than the federal statutory rate due to the reduction of our valuation allowance in connection with the sale of the PBL subconcession right and a reduced effective tax rate on our foreign operations (see footnote 17 Income Taxes). Their were no comparable items in 2004 and 2005 as we had not yet reached a conclusion that it was more likely than not that our net deferred tax assets were realizable.

Effective September 6, 2006, we received a 5-year exemption from Macau’s 12% Complementary Tax on casino gaming profits. Accordingly, we were exempted from the payment of approximately $4.7 million in such taxes. Wynn Macau’s non-gaming profits remain subject to the Macau Complementary Tax and Wynn Macau’s casino winnings remain subject to the Macau Special Gaming tax and other levies in accordance with its concession agreement.

Financial results for the year ended December 31, 2005 compared to financial results for the year ended December 31, 2004.

The 248 days of operations at Wynn Las Vegas during the year ended December 31, 2005 have no comparisons to 2004 as we were solely a development stage company prior to the opening of Wynn Las Vegas on April 28, 2005.

Revenues

Wynn Las Vegas’ net gaming revenues were $353.7 million for the 248 days of operations during the year ended December 31, 2005. During that period, the average table games win percentage (before discounts) of 21.5% was within the expected range of 18% to 22%, and the slot win percentage was within the expected range of 5% to 6% of handle.

For the 248 days of operations in 2005, Wynn Las Vegas’ gross room revenues were approximately $170.3 million. ADR and occupancy for that period were $274 and 92.1%, respectively, generating REVPAR of $253. Other non-gaming revenues included food and beverage revenues of approximately $173.7 million, retail revenues of approximately $51.2 million, entertainment revenues of approximately $41.8 million, and other revenues from outlets, including the spa and salon, of approximately $32.2 million.

Departmental, Administrative, and Other Expenses

For the year ended December 31, 2005, departmental expenses included casino expenses of $155.1 million, rooms expenses of $44.2 million, food and beverage expenses of $118.7 million, and entertainment, retail and other expenses of $80.2 million. Also included are general and administrative expenses of approximately $119.0 million and approximately $16.2 million charged as a provision for doubtful accounts receivable. At opening, Wynn Las Vegas employed approximately 9,200 persons to accommodate increased opening needs. Natural staffing attrition reduced the number of employees at the end of 2005 to approximately 8,900 persons.

Pre-opening costs

Pre-opening costs were $96.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2005 compared with $81.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2004. Pre-opening costs related to our Wynn Las Vegas project were $67.5

 

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million and $41.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively. The large amount of pre-opening costs incurred in 2005 was due primarily to the substantial increase in staffing preceding the opening of Wynn Las Vegas on April 28, 2005. Pre-opening costs related to our Wynn Macau project were $20.4 million and $16.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively. Wynn Macau’s pre-opening costs continued to increase through the opening in the third quarter of 2006.

Included in pre-opening costs are corporate costs of $9.1 million and $24.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively. After Wynn Las Vegas opened on April 28, 2005, such corporate expenses were charged to general and administrative expense instead of pre-opening. Corporate staffing and related costs did not increase significantly immediately before or after opening of Wynn Las Vegas; instead, the decrease in corporate expenses is due primarily to having a 117-day pre-opening period in 2005, compared with a 365-day pre-opening period in 2004.

Depreciation and amortization

Depreciation and amortization expense was $103.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2005, compared to $7.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2004. This increase is primarily due to the opening of Wynn Las Vegas on April 28, 2005. During the construction of Wynn Las Vegas, costs incurred in the construction of the buildings, improvements to land and the purchases of assets for use in operations were capitalized. Once Wynn Las Vegas opened and these assets were placed into service, we began recognizing the associated depreciation expense. The depreciation expenses will continue throughout the estimated useful lives of these assets. In addition, we continually evaluate the useful life of our property and equipment, intangibles and other assets. When circumstances require a revision to those estimates of useful life, we adjust them accordingly.

Property charges and other

In response to our evaluation of the finished product and in response to the reactions of our guests, we began to make enhancements and refinements to Wynn Las Vegas in the third quarter of 2005. Included in the total $14.3 million for Wynn Las Vegas’ property charges and other for 2005 are approximately $9.4 million of costs relating to assets retired as a result of the remodel efforts at Wynn Las Vegas, and approximately $3.1 million of expenses relating to the abandonment of improvements made to the temporary offices utilized during part of the construction and development of the resort. Once we decided to remodel the Broadway Theater to present Spamalot, we also wrote off approximately $1.6 million of costs incurred in 2005 in connection with the preliminary design and development of a third theater originally planned to house “Monty Python’s Spamalot,” and later abandoned. There were no comparable Wynn Las Vegas property charges incurred during 2004. Property charges in 2004 instead reflect net losses on ordinary asset sales, including an aircraft sold in 2004 at a loss of approximately $550,000.

Other non-operating costs and expenses

Interest and other income increased by $19.6 million for 2005 compared to 2004. This increase is due primarily to the significant increase in the amount of average cash balances available and invested from the remaining proceeds of our 6-5/8% First Mortgage Notes due 2014 (the “First Mortgage Notes”) and borrowings under the Wynn Las Vegas, LLC credit facilities that were invested during 2005, compared to 2004.

Interest expense, net, increased by $100.0 million for 2005 compared to 2004, due primarily to the significant decrease in the amount of interest capitalized once Wynn Las Vegas opened, plus the increase in the long-term debt resulting from our December 2004 refinancing and credit facility borrowings during 2005.

We seek to manage the interest rate risk associated with our variable rate borrowings, through balancing fixed-rate and variable-rate borrowings supplemented by the use of derivative financial instruments as required or considered necessary. We were required to, and did obtain through interest rate swap arrangements, interest

 

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rate protection for portions of our borrowings under our credit facilities. These interest rate swaps are accounted for in accordance with SFAS 133. During the year ended December 31, 2005, we recorded an increase in swap fair value of approximately $8.2 million resulting from the increase in the fair value of our interest rate swaps from December 31, 2004 to December 31, 2005.

Also during 2004, we recorded a $122.8 million loss from extinguishment of debt related to the early retirement of the majority of the original $370.0 million of 12% Second Mortgage Notes due 2010 (the “Second Mortgage Notes”). This loss resulted from the write-off of associated deferred financing costs and original issue discount, as well as a 12% redemption premium, on the Second Mortgage Notes. We repurchased the remaining principal amount of the Second Mortgage Notes totaling approximately $10.1 million on November 1, 2006 (the first available call date), at which time an additional loss of $1.7 million was recorded to reflect the redemption premium and write-off of the remaining financing costs.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Cash Flow from Operations

Our operating cash flows are primarily affected by our operating income generated by Wynn Las Vegas and Wynn Macau, interest paid, and non-cash charges included in operating income. Net cash from operations for the year ended December 31, 2006 was $240.8 million compared to $48.5 million provided by operations for the year ended December 31, 2005. Prior to the opening of Wynn Las Vegas on April 28, 2005, we were solely a development stage company and did not generate operational cash flow.

Capital Resources

We require a certain amount of cash on hand for operations. Our cash balances at December 31, 2006, were higher than in prior periods due to the opening of Wynn Macau and approximately $517 million remaining from the $900 million cash received from PBL on September 11, 2006. At December 31, 2006, we had approximately $789.4 million of cash and cash equivalents available for new development activities, general corporate purposes, enhancements to Wynn Las Vegas and Wynn Macau, and to support the development and construction of Encore and the second phase of Wynn Macau. Of this amount, approximately $54.7 million is held by Wynn Resorts, Limited, which is not a guarantor of the debt of its subsidiaries, including Wynn Las Vegas, LLC and Wynn Macau, S.A. However, Wynn Resorts, Limited has provided an equity commitment agreement to Wynn Las Vegas, LLC’s secured lenders, which obligates Wynn Resorts, Limited to contribute up to $70 million for Encore project costs if Wynn Las Vegas, LLC is unable to pay such costs.

At December 31, 2006, we had approximately $237.4 million in cash and investments from the proceeds of our debt and equity financings, which is restricted for the following:

 

   

Construction, development and pre-opening expenses of Encore;

 

   

Construction, development and pre-opening expenses of the second phase of Wynn Macau;

 

   

Remaining costs to be paid in relation to Wynn Macau’s first phase;

 

   

$30 million of contingent equity restricted for Wynn Macau;

 

   

$80 million restricted for the Wynn Las Vegas liquidity reserve and completion guarantee ($30 million of which must be retained for Encore); and

 

   

Remaining costs for completion of Wynn Las Vegas, estimated to be approximately $3.2 million.

Cash equivalents include investments in overnight money market funds. Restricted investments are kept in money market funds or relatively short-term, government-backed, marketable debt securities as required by agreements governing our debt facilities.

 

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Investing Activities

Encore at Wynn Las Vegas

On April 28, 2006, we commenced construction on Encore. We expect to open Encore to the public in early 2009.

Design and construction is progressing as expected at Encore. Current construction activities in the various project sections since groundbreaking include the following:

 

 

 

The high-rise concrete pours have been completed through the 15th floor deck. The installation of the reinforcing rebar for the shear walls and columns for the 16h floor is underway.

 

   

Construction of the guest self-park garage has reached level 6 with beams and deck forms installed.

 

   

Low-rise excavation is complete with the exception of the pool deck which has just begun. The footings for the main casino area are 95% complete.

 

   

The employee parking garage located on our Koval property is complete and in use.

Our project budget is currently estimated at approximately $2.1 billion, consisting of approximately $2.0 billion for Encore and approximately $100 million for an employee parking garage on our Koval property, an associated pedestrian bridge and costs incurred in connection with the theatre remodeling and production of “Monty Python’s Spamalot” at Wynn Las Vegas. The budget has increased from the previously announced $1.74 billion due to refinements in scope and market conditions for construction materials. The project budget will be funded from our existing credit facilities, remaining proceeds from the first mortgage notes and operating cash flow from Wynn Las Vegas. To the extent additional funds are required, we will provide these amounts with additional debt and equity contributions by Wynn Resorts. On March 31, 2006, Wynn Resorts delivered an equity commitment to its bank lenders under which Wynn Resorts is obligated to pay project costs if Wynn Las Vegas is unable to. As of August 2006, Wynn Resorts’ obligation under the equity commitment was $70 million.

On February 27, 2007, we entered into a Design Build Architectural, Engineering and Construction Services Agreement (the “Contract”) with Tutor-Saliba Corporation (“Tutor”) for the design and construction of Encore. The Contract sets forth all of the terms and conditions pursuant to which Tutor will design and construct Encore. In addition to the terms and conditions governing the design and construction of Encore, the Contract provides that the parties will negotiate a guaranteed maximum price (the Encore “GMP”) for the construction and design of Encore within 90 days of execution of the Contract. If the parties cannot mutually agree upon a GMP during the 90 day period, the Company can, at its option, (a) continue to employ Tutor for construction and design services on a cost-plus basis, (b) agree to alternative arrangements with Tutor or (c) terminate the Contract. In connection with the execution and delivery of the Contract, Tutor and the Ronald N. Tutor Separate Trust (the “Trust”) have entered into and consented to a Net Worth Agreement pursuant to which (x) the Trust agreed that it will retain its current majority holdings of Tutor and (y) the Trust and Tutor agreed that during the term of the Contract, Tutor will maintain (i) net worth of at least $100 million, and (ii) liquid assets of at least $50 million.

As of December 31, 2006, we incurred approximately $277.6 million of project costs related to the development and construction of Encore and related capital improvements. These costs, net of approximately $8.1 million of retention, have been funded from the Wynn Las Vegas credit facilities, the remaining funds from the First Mortgage Notes and cash flow from the operations of Wynn Las Vegas. Prior to signing a guaranteed maximum price construction contract, we are permitted to spend up to $300 million of the proceeds of the First Mortgage Notes and the credit facilities on Encore project costs. As of December 31, 2006, we have spent or committed approximately $206.3 million using these debt proceeds. The remaining $63.2 million has been funded from cash flows from operations.

The ongoing costs of Encore will be paid with funds from the following sources and in the following order of priority:

 

   

First, by using agreed amounts of excess cash flow from the operations of Wynn Las Vegas and any equity contributions from Wynn Resorts;

 

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Second, by using any proceeds from the First Mortgage Notes (including any additional First Mortgage Notes that may be issued in the future), and the proceeds of borrowings under the Wynn Las Vegas credit facilities, until exhaustion of the First Mortgage Notes proceeds, with amounts funded 66.67% from notes proceeds and 33.33% from the Wynn Las Vegas Credit Facilities;

 

   

Third, by using proceeds of additional borrowings under the Wynn Las Vegas Credit Facilities and;

 

   

Fourth, by using the funds from the completion guarantee deposit account.

Wynn Las Vegas

In the third quarter of 2005, we began to make certain enhancements and refinements to Wynn Las Vegas. As a result, we have incurred and will continue to incur capital expenditures relating to these enhancements and refinements. Under the terms of the Wynn Las Vegas credit facilities, we were permitted to make up to $100 million of capital expenditures in 2006, of which we have expended approximately $52.8 million. For 2007, we will be permitted to spend $172.2 million including $47.2 million which is carried forward from 2006. The spending limit will be increased to the extent funds are contributed to Wynn Las Vegas by Wynn Resorts, Limited.

Le Reve Production Rights

On May 31, 2006, we entered into an agreement to acquire substantially all intellectual property rights related to “Le Reve,” which were previously only licensed to us. We paid $15.9 million to acquire substantially all of the rights in and to “Le Reve,” and to repay approximately $1.4 million of production costs, which were reimbursable to the executive producer of “Le Reve”. The rights acquired enable us to produce, present, enhance, or alter the performance of “Le Reve” after May 31, 2006.

Wynn Macau

The first phase of Wynn Macau was completed, and the casino resort opened, on September 6, 2006. The construction of the second phase is progressing and is scheduled to open in the third quarter of 2007. The overall Wynn Macau project remains within budget and the second phase is progressing according to the expected timeframe. Significant construction accomplishments for the second phase include:

 

   

Completion of the building sub-structure (i.e. below ground pilings and footings) and above ground super structure;

 

   

Completion of the external walls and roof;

 

   

Steady progress of the interior fit out and mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems; and

 

   

Occupation by Permit for certain portions of the ground floor public space.

The current total project budget for Wynn Macau (excluding the developing budget for Wynn Diamond Suites and related amenities) is approximately $1.2 billion, including contingencies, but excluding up to $20.5 million of post-opening land concession payments anticipated to be funded from operating cash flows. Under the Amended and Restated Construction Contract, the general contractor is responsible for both the construction and design of the project (other than certain limited portions to be designed by one of our subsidiaries) based on an existing scope of work and design specifications for both the first phase and the expansion as provided by us, for a guaranteed maximum price of approximately $484 million (including the contractors’ fee and contingency).

On June 22, 2006, Wynn Macau, S.A. received consent from its lending syndicate permitting Wynn Macau, S.A. to enter into three change orders to its guaranteed maximum price construction contract. The three change orders implement a series of amendments to the Construction Contract including, providing for the completion of the majority of the first floor of the Wynn Macau expansion as additional gaming space, a series of

 

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enhancements and upgrades to the overall project, and adding an electronic marquee sign at the entrance to Wynn Macau. The change orders increased the guaranteed maximum price under the Construction Contract from $457 million to approximately $484 million.

As of December 31, 2006, the Company has incurred approximately $877.1 million of the total project budget (excluding Wynn Diamond Suites) of approximately $1.2 billion.

Financing Activities

Wynn Las Vegas and Encore

On August 15, 2006, we refinanced our Revolving Credit Facility (the “Revolver”) and our Delay Draw Term Loan Facility (the “Term Loan”)(together, the “Wynn Las Vegas Credit Facilities”).

On August 15, 2006, we entered into an Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Amended and Restated Credit Agreement”) which, among other things, (i) increased the Wynn Las Vegas Credit Facilities from $1.0 billion to $1.125 billion by increasing the Revolver from $600 million to $900 million and reducing the Term Loan from $400 million to $225 million; (ii) reduced the borrowing margins on London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”)-based Revolver and Term Loan to 1.625% and 1.875%, respectively; (iii) extended the maturity dates for the Revolver and the Term Loans to 2011 and 2013, respectively; and (iv) reduced the consolidated interest coverage ratio requirement for quarterly periods on or prior to December 31, 2007 to 2.00:1. The Amended and Restated Credit Agreement also: (i) reduced the range of the Revolver’s annual LIBOR borrowing margin after the opening of Encore from a range of 1.25% to 2.50% to a range of 1.00% to 1.75%, depending on our leverage ratio; and (ii) simplified the procedures for and conditions to obtaining advances and reduced the reporting obligations under the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement upon the satisfaction of certain conditions, including fully utilizing all previously funded amounts under the First Mortgage Notes for payment of Encore project costs.

As a result of the refinancing discussed above, borrowings under the Term Loan were reduced to $225 million, under which we have elected, and expect to continue to elect, Eurodollar loans which bear interest at 1-month LIBOR and include a margin of 1.875% on that outstanding balance. We had two $200 million notional amount interest rate swaps to essentially fix the interest on the $400 million of former Term Loan. When we completed the refinancing on August 15, 2006, we terminated one of the two swaps and received approximately $6.6 million in the transaction. We elected to retain the other swap and therefore it effectively fixes the interest rate on $200 million out of the total $225 million of current Term Loan (for further information, see Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Discussions about Market Risk).

As of December 31, 2006, a total of $88.9 million was outstanding under the Revolver, primarily for the construction of Encore. Consequently, $811.1 million remains available under the Revolver for future borrowings for the construction of Encore or for other uses as necessary. For borrowings under the Revolver, we have elected, and expect to continue to elect, Eurodollar loans, which bear interest at 1-month LIBOR and currently include a margin of 1.625% on the outstanding balance. After opening Encore, the margin will fluctuate between a range of 1.0% to 1.75%, depending on our leverage ratio. In addition to interest, we also pay quarterly in arrears, an annual rate of 0.375% on the daily average of unborrowed availability under the Revolver. After the opening of Encore, the annual fee that we will be required to pay for unborrowed availability under the Revolver will be based on our leverage ratio and will range from an annual rate of 0.25% to 0.50%.

The new $900 million Revolver will terminate and be payable in full on August 15, 2011, $112.5 million of the $225 million Term Loan will be payable on September 30, 2012 and the remaining $112.5 million will be payable on August 15, 2013.

The Wynn Las Vegas Credit Facilities are obligations of Wynn Las Vegas, LLC and are guaranteed by and secured by substantially all of the assets (except the corporate aircraft) of each of its subsidiaries (other than

 

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Wynn Completion Guarantor, LLC). The obligations of Wynn Las Vegas, LLC and the guarantors under the Credit Facilities rank pari passu in right of payment with their existing and future senior indebtedness, including indebtedness with respect to the First Mortgage Notes and senior in right of payment to all of their existing and future subordinated indebtedness.

On March 31, 2006, Wynn Resorts delivered an equity commitment agreement to the lenders under the Wynn Las Vegas Credit Facilities. Under that agreement, Wynn Resorts had committed to pay up to $215.3 million of Encore project costs if the Company was unable to do so. The refinancing discussed above increased the aggregate amount available under the Wynn Las Vegas Credit Facilities from $1.0 billion to $1.125 billion. As a result of this increase and with other funds becoming available to pay for Encore project costs, Wynn Resorts’ maximum commitment to pay Encore project costs was reduced from $215.3 million to $70 million in August 2006.

We also have outstanding at December 31, 2006 approximately $38.5 million of an original $44.75 million borrowing secured by our corporate aircraft. This loan matures on March 31, 2010. Principal and interest are payable quarterly, and interest is calculated at LIBOR plus a margin of 2.375%. In addition to scheduled amortization payments, we are required to prepay the loans if certain events of loss with respect to the aircraft occur. Beginning December 31, 2006, we may prepay all or any portion of the loan, subject to a minimum prepayment of $10 million.

On November 1, 2006, we redeemed the approximately $10.1 million of the Second Mortgage Notes that remained outstanding. Funds to repay the Second Mortgage Notes and interest had been placed in an escrow account in December 2004, specifically for this purpose.

Wynn Macau

Financing for Wynn Macau’s design, development, construction and pre-opening expenses has been provided by a combination of cash on hand in the form of intercompany loans totaling $230 million, subordinated loan financing from Wynn Resorts totaling $80 million, a senior secured credit facility and cash flow from operations since opening. On October 31, 2006, Wynn Macau, S.A. repaid to Wynn Resorts the intercompany loan and the subordinated loan and interest using proceeds from the PBL transaction. Wynn Macau, S.A.’s senior secured credit facility of $764 million includes $729.7 million of senior term loan facilities, a HK$117 million revolving credit facility (approximately US$15 million), and an additional term loan facility of HK$156 million (approximately US$20 million). As of December 31, 2006, we had borrowed approximately $496.7 million under the Wynn Macau, S.A. senior secured credit facility.

The term loan facilities mature in September 2011, and the revolving credit facility matures in September 2007. The principal amount of the term loans is required to be repaid in quarterly installments, commencing on March 14, 2008. The term loans bear interest at LIBOR or the Hong Kong Interbank Offered Rate (“HIBOR”) plus a margin of 2.75%. The senior bank facility also provides for further reductions in the margin on the term loans if Wynn Macau, S.A. satisfies certain prescribed leverage ratio tests. Loans under the revolving credit facility will bear interest at HIBOR plus a margin of 2.5%.

On June 22, 2006, Wynn Macau, S.A. received consent from its lending syndicate allowing Wynn Macau, S.A. to amend certain provisions of its credit agreement to permit Wynn Macau to fund the additional $68.4 million in costs associated with three change orders to its guaranteed maximum price construction contract and other increases in Wynn Macau’s project budget entirely from its existing $764 million senior secured credit facilities. The additional costs are to be incurred in connection with preparatory work for additional gaming space located in the expansion of Wynn Macau’s second phase, a series of enhancements and upgrades to the overall project, and an electronic marquee sign at the entrance to Wynn Macau.

Wynn Macau will fund $60.5 million of costs from its existing $72 million contingent debt facility which is included in the $729 million senior term loan facility, and $7.9 million of costs from its existing $20 million credit facility with Banco Nacional Ultramarino, S.A.

 

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Collateral for the Wynn Macau senior bank facility consists of substantially all of the assets of Wynn Macau, S.A. Certain affiliates that own interests in Wynn Macau, S.A., either directly or indirectly through other subsidiaries, have executed guarantees of the loans and pledged their interests in Wynn Macau, S.A. as additional security for repayment of the loans.

We began to draw under the senior bank facility in October 2005, after expenditure of the intercompany loans and subordinated funding. Through December 31, 2006, we incurred approximately $877.1 million of the total $1.2 billion of budgeted project costs (excluding costs for Wynn Diamond Suites). Total budgeted project costs include construction and design costs (including construction contingencies) land acquisition costs related to the additional casino expansion and capitalized interest, pre-opening expenses, financing fees and other costs.

In addition to the above financing sources, we have $30 million of long-term restricted cash reserved as contingent equity. We have entered into interest rate swap agreements to hedge a portion of the underlying interest rate risk on borrowings under the Wynn Macau, S.A. credit facilities. See Part II-Item 7A. “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.”

Special Cash Distribution

On November 13, 2006, our Board of Directors declared a special cash distribution of $6.00 per share on our outstanding common stock. This special distribution was paid on December 4, 2006, to stockholders of record as of November 23, 2006. As part of this distribution, we made a special payment to the holders of its Debentures so that they participated in the special distribution to the same extent as if they had converted their Debentures to common stock. We paid holders of the Debentures a cash amount equal to $260.87 per $1,000 principal amount. In accordance with the indenture governing the Debentures, as a result of the payment, no adjustment was made to the conversion price as a result of the special cash distribution. The total amount of the special cash distribution was $669.8 million. This special distribution was paid using a portion of the proceeds from the sale of our subconcession in Macau as discussed above and corporate cash.

Off Balance Sheet Arrangements

We have not entered into any transactions with special purpose entities nor do we engage in any derivatives except for straight forward interest rate swaps. We do not have any retained or contingent interest in assets transferred to an unconsolidated entity. At December 31, 2006, we had outstanding letters of credit totaling $4.4 million.

Contractual Obligation and Commitments

The following table summarizes our scheduled contractual commitments at December 31, 2006 (amounts in millions):

 

     Payments Due By Period
     Less Than
1 Year
   1 to 3
Years
   4 to 5
Years
   After
5 Years
   Total

Long-term debt obligations

   $ 6.1    $ 254.2    $ 377.3    $ 1,749.1    $ 2,386.7

Fixed interest payments

     100.3      200.5      200.0      299.9      800.7

Estimated variable interest payments[1]

     62.2      108.8      60.7      19.8      251.5

Operating leases

     7.5      9.6      3.6      3.2      23.9

Construction contracts and commitments

     122.7      36.6      —        —        159.3

Employment agreements

     39.1      46.4      11.8      18.9      116.2

Other[2]

     83.3      49.2      30.4      268.9      431.8
                                  

Total commitments

   $ 421.2    $ 705.3    $ 683.8    $ 2,359.8    $ 4,170.1
                                  

[1] Amounts for all periods represent our estimated future interest payments on our debt facilities based upon currently existing commitments and LIBOR or HIBOR rates as of December 31, 2006.

 

[2] Other includes open purchase orders, commitments for aircraft purchases, land concession and fixed gaming tax payments in Macau and other contracts.

 

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Other Liquidity Matters

Wynn Resorts is a holding company and, as a result, its ability to pay dividends is dependent on its subsidiaries’ ability to provide funds to it. Restrictions imposed by our subsidiaries’ debt instruments significantly restrict certain key subsidiaries holding a majority of our assets, including Wynn Las Vegas, LLC and Wynn Macau, S.A., from making dividends or distributions to us. Specifically, Wynn Las Vegas, LLC and certain of its subsidiaries are restricted under the indenture governing the First Mortgage Notes from making certain “restricted payments” as defined in the indenture. These restricted payments include the payment of dividends or distributions to any direct or indirect holders of equity interests of Wynn Las Vegas, LLC. These restricted payments may not be made unless certain financial and non-financial criteria have been satisfied. The other credit facilities of Wynn Las Vegas, LLC and Wynn Macau, S.A. contain similar restrictions; although the Wynn Macau, S.A. loan agreements permit distribution of the net proceeds of subconcession sales.

If completion of Encore or the second phase of Wynn Macau is delayed, then our debt service obligations accruing prior to the actual opening will increase correspondingly. Wynn Las Vegas will fund its operations and capital requirements from operating cash flow and remaining availability under Wynn Las Vegas, LLC’s credit facilities. We cannot assure you, however, that Wynn Las Vegas will generate sufficient cash flow from operations or that future borrowings available to us under the Wynn Las Vegas credit facilities will be sufficient to enable us to service and repay Wynn Las Vegas, LLC’s indebtedness and to fund its other liquidity needs. Similarly, we expect that Wynn Macau will fund Wynn Macau, S.A.’s debt service obligations with operating cash flow and remaining availability under its senior secured bank facility. However, we cannot assure you that operating cash flows and available borrowings will be sufficient to do so. We may refinance all or a portion of our indebtedness on or before maturity. We cannot assure you that we will be able to refinance any of the indebtedness on acceptable terms or at all.

New business developments or other unforeseen events may occur, resulting in the need to raise additional funds. We continue to explore opportunities to develop additional gaming or related businesses in Las Vegas, as well as other domestic or international markets. There can be no assurances regarding the business prospects with respect to any other opportunity. Any other development would require us to obtain additional financing. We may decide to conduct any such development through Wynn Resorts or through subsidiaries separate from the Las Vegas or Macau-related entities.

Wynn Resorts’ articles of incorporation provide that Wynn Resorts may redeem shares of its capital stock, including its common stock, that are owned or controlled by an unsuitable person or its affiliates to the extent a gaming authority makes a determination of unsuitability and orders the redemption, or to the extent deemed necessary or advisable by our Board of Directors. The redemption price may be paid in cash, by promissory note or both, as required by the applicable gaming authority and, if not, as we elect. Any promissory note that we issue to an unsuitable person or its affiliate in exchange for its shares could increase our debt to equity ratio and will increase our leverage ratio.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

Management’s discussion and analysis of our results of operations and liquidity and capital resources are based on our consolidated financial statements. Our consolidated financial statements were prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Certain of our accounting policies require that management apply significant judgment in defining the appropriate assumptions integral to financial estimates. On an ongoing basis, management evaluates those estimates, including those relating to the estimated lives of depreciable assets, asset impairment, allowances for doubtful accounts, accruals for customer loyalty rewards, self insurance, contingencies, litigation and other items. Judgments are based on historical experience, terms of existing contracts, industry trends and information available from outside sources, as appropriate. However, by their nature, judgments are subject to an inherent degree of uncertainty, and therefore actual results could differ from our estimates.

 

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Development, Construction and Property and Equipment Estimates

During the construction and development of a resort, pre-opening or start-up costs are expensed when incurred. In connection with the construction and development of Wynn Las Vegas and Wynn Macau, significant start-up costs were incurred and charged to pre-opening costs through the second quarter of 2005 for Wynn Las Vegas and through the third quarter of 2006 for Wynn Macau, as anticipated. Once Wynn Las Vegas and Wynn Macau opened to the public, expenses associated with the opening of the resorts were no longer charged as pre-opening costs. However, start-up costs relating to Encore and the second phase of Wynn Macau will continue to be charged to pre-opening costs until such projects are completed and opened.

During the construction and development stage, direct costs such as those incurred for the design and construction of Wynn Las Vegas and Wynn Macau, including applicable portions of interest, are capitalized. Accordingly, the recorded amounts of property and equipment increase significantly during construction periods. Depreciation expense related to capitalized construction costs is recognized when the related assets are put in service. Accordingly, upon the opening of Wynn Las Vegas and Wynn Macau, we began recognizing depreciation expense on the resort’s fixed assets.

The remaining estimated useful lives of assets are periodically reviewed.

Our leasehold interest in land in Macau under the land concession contract entered into in June 2004 is being amortized over 25 years, to reflect the initial term of the concession contract, which currently terminates in June 2029. Depreciation on the majority of the assets comprising Wynn Macau, however, commenced in September of 2006, when Wynn Macau opened. The maximum useful life of assets at Wynn Macau is the remaining life of the gaming concession, which currently expires in June 2022. Consequently, depreciation related to Wynn Macau will generally be charged over shorter periods when compared to Wynn Las Vegas.

Costs of building repairs and maintenance are charged to expense when incurred. The cost and accumulated depreciation of property and equipment retired or otherwise disposed of are eliminated from the respective accounts and any resulting gain or loss is included in operating income or loss.

We also evaluate our property and equipment and other long-lived assets for impairment in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets.” For assets to be disposed of, we recognize the asset at the lower of carrying value or fair market value less costs of disposal, as estimated based on comparable asset sales, solicited offers, or a discounted cash flow model. For assets to be held and used, we review for impairment whenever indicators of impairment exist. We then compare the estimated future cash flows of the asset, on an undiscounted basis, to the carrying value of the asset. If the undiscounted cash flows exceed the carrying value, no impairment is indicated. If the undiscounted cash flows do not exceed the carrying value, then an impairment is recorded based on the fair value of the asset, typically measured using a discounted cash flow model. If an asset is still under development, future cash flows include remaining construction costs. All recognized impairment losses, whether for assets to be disposed of or assets to be held and used, are recorded as operating expenses.

Allowance for Estimated Doubtful Accounts Receivable

A substantial portion of our outstanding receivables relates to casino credit play. Credit play represents a significant portion of the table games volume at Wynn Las Vegas. We maintain strict controls over the issuance of markers and aggressively pursue collection from those customers who fail to pay their marker balances timely. These collection efforts may include the mailing of statements and delinquency notices, personal contacts, the use of outside collection agencies, and litigation. Markers are generally legally enforceable instruments in the United States. Markers are not legally enforceable instruments in some foreign countries, but the United States assets of foreign customers may be used to satisfy judgments entered in the United States. At December 31, 2006, approximately 59% of our casino accounts receivable were owed by customers from foreign countries. The collectibility of markers given by foreign customers is affected by a number of factors including changes in currency exchange rates and economic conditions in the customers’ home countries.

 

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We evaluate our reserve for bad debts based on a specific review of customer accounts as well as management’s prior experience with collection trends in the casino industry and current economic and business conditions.

As our customer payment experience evolves, we will continue to refine our estimated reserve for bad debts. Accordingly, the associated provision for doubtful accounts charge may fluctuate. Because individual customer account balances can be significant, the reserve and the provision can change significantly between periods, as information about a certain customer becomes known or as changes in a region’s economy or legal system occur.

Derivative Financial Instruments

We seek to manage our market risk, including interest rate risk associated with variable rate borrowings, through balancing fixed-rate and variable-rate borrowings and the use of derivative financial instruments. The Company accounts for derivative financial instruments in accordance with SFAS No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities,” as amended. Derivative financial instruments are recognized as assets or liabilities, with changes in fair value affecting net income (loss) or comprehensive income (loss) as applicable.

Share-Based Compensation

In December 2004, the FASB issued SFAS No. 123(R). This statement is a revision of SFAS No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation” and supersedes APB Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees,” and related interpretations. SFAS No. 123(R) establishes standards for the accounting for transactions in which an entity exchanges its equity instruments for goods and services or incurs a liability in exchange for goods and services that are based on the fair value of the entity’s equity instruments or that may be settled by the issuance of those equity instruments. It requires an entity to measure the costs of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments based on the grant-date fair value of the award and recognize that cost over the service period. We adopted this statement on January 1, 2006 under the modified prospective method and use the Black-Scholes valuation model to value the equity instruments issued. The Black-Scholes valuation model uses assumptions of expected volatility, risk-free interest rates, the expected term of options granted, and expected rates of dividends. Management determines these assumptions by reviewing current market rates, making industry comparisons and reviewing conditions relevant to our Company. In applying the modified prospective method, financial statements of prior periods presented do not reflect any adjusted amounts (i.e. prior periods do not include compensation cost calculated under the fair value method).

In March 2005, the SEC issued Staff Accounting Bulletin (“SAB”) No. 107, “Share-Based Payment” to provide interpretive guidance on SFAS No. 123(R) valuation methods, assumptions used in valuation models, and the interaction of SFAS No. 123(R) with existing SEC guidance. SAB No. 107 also requires the classification of stock compensation expense in the same financial statement line items as cash compensation, and therefore impacts our departmental expenses (and related operating margins), pre-opening costs and construction in progress for our development projects, and our general and administrative expenses (including corporate expenses).

Significant Judgmental Accruals

We estimate liabilities for certain self-insurance, customer loyalty program reward redemptions, contingencies, claims and litigation and other items, as appropriate. Management determines the adequacy of these estimates by reviewing the expected trends and from industry experience and adjusts the assumptions utilized as necessary.

Income Taxes

We are subject to income taxes in the United States and other foreign jurisdictions where the Company operates. We account for income taxes in accordance with SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes”

 

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(“SFAS 109”). SFAS 109 requires the recognition of deferred tax assets, net of applicable reserves, and liabilities for the estimated future tax consequences attributable to differences between financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect of a change in tax rates on the income tax provision and deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in the results of operations in the period that includes the enactment date.

The Company’s income tax returns are subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) and other tax authorities in the locations where it operates. The Company assesses potentially unfavorable outcomes of such examinations based on the criteria of SFAS No. 5, “Accounting for Contingencies”. Quarterly, the Company reviews any potentially unfavorable tax outcome and when an unfavorable outcome is identified as probable and can be reasonably estimated, the Company then establishes a tax reserve for such possible unfavorable outcome. Estimating potential tax outcomes for any uncertain tax issue is highly judgmental and may not be indicative of the ultimate settlement with the tax authorities. The Company believes that it has adequately provided reasonable reserves for reasonable and foreseeable outcomes related to uncertain tax matters.

SFAS 109 requires recognition of a future tax benefit to the extent that realization of such benefit is more likely than not. Otherwise, a valuation allowance is applied. During our development stage, we accumulated significant net operating losses, which generated significant deferred tax assets. Because of the Company’s limited operating history, we had previously fully reserved these net deferred tax assets. On September 11, 2006, we recorded a gain on the sale of the subconcession right. Accordingly we determined that a substantial portion of these net deferred tax assets have become more likely than not realizable as defined by SFAS 109.

Effective September 6, 2006, we received a 5-year exemption from Macau’s 12% Complementary Tax on casino gaming profits. Accordingly, during 2006 we were exempted from the payment of approximately $4.7 million in such taxes. Wynn Macau’s non-gaming profits remain subject to the Macau Complementary Tax and Wynn Macau’s casino winnings remain subject to the Macau Special Gaming tax and other levies in accordance with its concession agreement.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

In June 2006, the FASB issued Interpretation No. 48 (“FIN 48”) “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes”. This interpretation clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in a company’s financial statements in accordance with FASB Statement No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes”. The interpretation provides guidance on classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure, and translation. This interpretation is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2006. The adoption of this statement is effective January 1, 2007. We have estimated that the adoption of FIN 48 will result in up to a $5 million cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings in the first quarter of 2007.

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No 157, “Fair Value Measurements”. This Statement defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements under other accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements. Accordingly, this Statement does not require any new fair value measurements. This statement is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. We have not yet determined the impact this statement will have on our consolidated financial statements after it is adopted on January 1, 2008.

In September 2006, the SEC issued SAB No. 108, “Considering the Effects of Prior Year Misstatements when Quantifying Misstatements in Current Year Financial Statements”. SAB 108 requires companies to evaluate the materiality of identified unadjusted errors on each financial statement and related financial statement disclosure using both the rollover approach and the iron curtain approach. The rollover approach quantifies

 

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misstatements based on the amount of the error in the current year financial statement whereas the iron curtain approach quantifies misstatements based on the effects of correcting the misstatement existing in the balance sheet at the end of the current year, irrespective of the misstatement’s year(s) of origin. Financial statements would require adjustment when either approach results in quantifying a misstatement that is material. Correcting prior year financial statements for immaterial errors would not require previously filed reports to be amended. SAB 108 is effective for interim periods of the first fiscal year ending after November 15, 2006. The adoption of SAB 108 did not have an impact on our consolidated results of operations or financial position.

ITEM 7A.    QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Market risk is the risk of loss arising from adverse changes in market rates and prices, such as interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates and commodity prices.

Interest Rate Risks

One of our primary exposures to market risk is interest rate risk associated with our debt facilities that bear interest based on floating rates. See “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources—Financing Activities.” We attempt to manage interest rate risk by managing the mix of long-term fixed rate borrowings and variable rate borrowings supplemented by hedging activities as considered necessary. We cannot be sure that these risk management strategies will have the desired effect, and interest rate fluctuations could have a negative impact on our results of operations.

The following table provides estimated future cash flow information derived from our best estimates of repayments at December 31, 2006 on our expected long-term indebtedness. However, we cannot predict the LIBOR or HIBOR rates that will be in effect in the future. Accordingly, the one-month LIBOR and HIBOR rates at December 31, 2006 of 5.3% and 3.9%, respectively are used for all calculations in the table below.

 

     As of December 31,  
     2007     2008     2009     2010     2011     Thereafter     Total  
     (in millions)  

Long-term debt:

              

Fixed rate

   $ 0.8     $ 0.8     $ 0.9     $ 0.9     $ 10.0     $ 1,524.1     $ 1,537.5  

Average interest rate

     5.7 %     5.7 %     5.7 %     5.7 %     5.7 %     6.5 %     6.5 %

Variable rate

   $ 5.3     $ 114.3     $ 138.2     $ 171.9     $ 194.5     $ 225.0     $ 849.2  

Average interest rate

     7.7 %     7.5 %     7.5 %     7.5 %     7.2 %     7.2 %     7.3 %

Interest Rate Swap Information

Wynn Las Vegas

As of December 31, 2006, we have one interest rate swap arrangement to hedge the underlying interest rate risk on a total of $200.0 million of borrowings under the current Wynn Las Vegas, LLC term loan facility, which bears interest at LIBOR plus 1.875%. Under this interest rate swap arrangement, we receive payments at a variable rate of LIBOR and pay a fixed rate of 3.793% on the $200 million notional amount which expires on December 31, 2008. Although this interest rate swap is highly effective economically in fixing the interest rate on this borrowing under the new term loan facility at approximately 5.7%, changes in fair value of our interest rate swaps for each reporting period are, and will continue to be, recorded as an increase/(decrease) in swap fair value as the swap does not qualify for hedge accounting.

Wynn Macau

As of December 31, 2006, we have two interest rate swaps to hedge a portion of the underlying interest rate risk on borrowings under Wynn Macau S.A.’s $749 million senior term loan facility. Under the first swap

 

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agreement, we pay a fixed interest rate of 4.84% on borrowings estimated to be incurred under the senior term loan facility up to a maximum of approximately $198.2 million, in exchange for receipts on the same amounts at a variable interest rate based on the applicable LIBOR at the time of payment. Under the second swap agreement, we pay a fixed interest rate of 4.77% on borrowings estimated to be incurred under the senior term loan facility up to a maximum of approximately HK$1.1 billion (approximately US$140.7 million), in exchange for receipts on the same amounts at a variable interest rate based on the applicable HIBOR at the time of payment. The term of both swap agreements is from November 28, 2005 through November 28, 2008.

These interest rate swaps are expected to be highly effective in fixing the interest rate on 50% of the US dollar and 50% of the Hong Kong dollar borrowings under the senior bank facility at approximately 7.59% and 7.52%, respectively. However, changes in the fair values of these interest rate swaps for each reporting period recorded are, and will continue to be, recognized as an increase/(decrease) in swap fair value as the swaps do not qualify for hedge accounting.

Summary of Historical Fair Values

The following table presents the historical asset or (liability) fair values (reflected in deposits and other assets or in other long-term liabilities as appropriate) at December 31, 2006 and 2005 (amounts in thousands):

 

     Wynn Las Vegas    Wynn Macau     Total Interest
Rate Swap Asset
/ (Liability)

Asset / (liability) fair value:

(amounts in thousands)

       

at December 31, 2006

   $ 4,789    $ (1,467 )   $ 3,322

at December 31, 2005

   $ 10,523    $ (1,788 )   $ 8,735

The fair value approximates the amount the Company would receive if these contracts were settled at the respective valuation dates. Fair value is estimated based upon current, and predictions of future, interest rate levels along a yield curve, the remaining duration of the instruments and other market conditions, and therefore, is subject to significant estimation and a high degree of variability of fluctuation between periods.

Other Interest Rate Swap Information

The following table provides information about our interest rate swaps, by contractual maturity dates, as of December 31, 2006 and using estimated future LIBOR and HIBOR rates based upon implied forward rates in the yield curve:

 

     Expected Averages as of December 31,  
     2007    2008     2009    2010    2011    Thereafter    Total  
     (in millions)  

Average notional amount

   $ —      $ 538.5     $ —      $ —      $ —      $ —      $ 538.5  

Average pay rate

     —        4.4 %     —        —        —        —        4.4 %

Average receive rate

     —        4.8 %     —        —        —        —        4.8 %

We do not use derivative financial instruments, other financial instruments or derivative commodity instruments for trading or speculative purposes.

Interest Rate Sensitivity

As of December 31, 2006, approximately 87% of our long-term debt was based on fixed rates, including the notional amounts related to interest rate swaps. Based on our borrowings as of December 31, 2006, an assumed 1% change in variable rates would cause our annual interest cost to change by $3.1 million.

 

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Foreign Currency Risks

The currency delineated in Wynn Macau’s concession agreement with the government of Macau is the Macau pataca. The Macau pataca, which is not a freely convertible currency, is linked to the Hong Kong dollar, and in many cases the two are used interchangeably in Macau. The Hong Kong dollar is linked to the U.S. dollar and the exchange rate between these two currencies has remained relatively stable over the past several years. However, the exchange linkages of the Hong Kong dollar and the Macau pataca, and the Hong Kong dollar and the U.S. dollar, are subject to potential changes due to, among other things, changes in Chinese governmental policies and international economic and political developments.

If the Hong Kong dollar and the Macau pataca are not linked to the U.S. dollar in the future, severe fluctuations in the exchange rate for these currencies may result. We also cannot assure you that the current rate of exchange fixed by the applicable monetary authorities for these currencies will remain at the same level.

Because many of Wynn Macau’s payment and expenditure obligations are in Macau patacas, in the event of unfavorable Macau pataca or Hong Kong dollar rate changes, Wynn Macau’s obligations, as denominated in U.S. dollars, would increase. In addition, because we expect that most of the revenues for any casino that Wynn Macau operates in Macau will be in Hong Kong dollars, we are subject to foreign exchange risk with respect to the exchange rate between the Hong Kong dollar and the U.S. dollar. Also, if any of our Macau-related entities incur U.S. dollar-denominated debt, fluctuations in the exchange rates of the Macau pataca or the Hong Kong dollar, in relation to the U.S. dollar, could have adverse effects on Wynn Macau’s ability to service its debt, its results of operations and its financial condition. We have not yet determined whether we will engage in hedging activities to protect against foreign currency risk.

 

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ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

     Page

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Internal Controls Over Financial Reporting

   59

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firms on the Consolidated Financial Statements

   60-61

Consolidated Balance Sheets

   62

Consolidated Statements of Operations

   63

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity

   64

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

   65

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

   66

 

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

The Board of Directors and Stockholders of

Wynn Resorts, Limited:

We have audited management’s assessment, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting included in Item 9A, that Wynn Resorts, Limited and Subsidiaries (the “Company”) maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (the COSO criteria). The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on management’s assessment and an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, evaluating management’s assessment, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, management’s assessment that the Company maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006, is fairly stated, in all material respects, based on the COSO criteria. Also, in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006, based on the COSO criteria.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheet of the Company as of December 31, 2006, and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2006 and our report dated February 27, 2007 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Las Vegas, Nevada

February 27, 2007

 

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

The Board of Directors and Stockholders of

Wynn Resorts, Limited:

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of Wynn Resorts, Limited and Subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2006, and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2006. Our audit also included the financial statement schedules listed in the index at Item 15(a). These financial statements and schedules are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and schedules based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of the Company at December 31, 2006 and the consolidated results of their operations and their cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2006, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Also, in our opinion, the related financial statement schedules, when considered in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole, present fairly in all material respects the information set forth therein.

As discussed in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed its method of accounting for Share-Based Payments in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123 (revised 2004) on January 1, 2006.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated February 27, 2007 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Las Vegas, Nevada

February 27, 2007

 

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of

Wynn Resorts, Limited

Las Vegas, Nevada

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of Wynn Resorts, Limited and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2005, and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2005. Our audits also included the financial statement schedules of Condensed Financial Information of the Registrant and Valuation and Qualifying Accounts included in Item 15(a)(2). These financial statements and financial statement schedules are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial statements and financial statement schedules based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Wynn Resorts, Limited and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2005, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the two years in the period then ended in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, in our opinion, such financial statement schedules, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, present fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.

/s/  DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP

Las Vegas, Nevada

March 15, 2006

 

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WYNN RESORTS, LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(amounts in thousands, except share data)

 

     December 31,  
     2006     2005  
ASSETS     

Current assets:

    

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 789,407     $ 434,289  

Restricted cash and investments

     58,598       98,271  

Receivables, net

     140,232       88,468  

Inventories

     64,368       39,884  

Deferred income taxes

     13,727       —    

Prepaid expenses and other

     29,459       23,630  
                

Total current assets

     1,095,791       684,542  

Restricted cash and investments

     178,788       344,331  

Property and equipment, net

     3,157,622       2,663,870  

Intangibles, net

     67,635       60,480  

Deferred financing costs

     74,871       95,619  

Deposits and other assets

     79,492       91,371  

Investment in unconsolidated affiliates

     5,981       5,070  
                

Total assets

   $ 4,660,180     $ 3,945,283  
                
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY     

Current liabilities:

    

Current portion of long-term debt

   $ 6,115     $ 15,489  

Current portion of land concession obligation

     7,433       8,984  

Accounts and construction payable

     115,612       79,768  

Income taxes payable

     87,164       —    

Accrued interest

     15,495       15,733  

Accrued compensation and benefits

     71,537       36,772  

Gaming taxes payable

     46,403       7,826  

Other accrued expenses

     13,926       20,548  

Customer deposits and other liabilities

     131,702       66,120  

Construction retention

     15,700       18,539  
                

Total current liabilities

     511,087       269,779  

Long-term debt

     2,380,537       2,090,846  

Other long-term liabilities

     5,214       1,788  

Long-term land concession obligation

     11,809       19,218  

Deferred income taxes

     97,064       —    

Construction retention

     8,884       757  
                

Total liabilities

     3,014,595       2,382,388  
                

Commitments and contingencies (Note 18)

    

Stockholders’ equity:

    

Preferred stock, par value $0.01; authorized 40,000,000 shares; zero shares
issued and outstanding

     —         —    

Common stock, par value $0.01; authorized 400,000,000 shares; 101,887,031
and 99,331,294 shares issued and outstanding

     1,018       993  

Additional paid-in capital

     2,022,408       1,972,847  

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

     (94 )     —    

Deferred compensation