Tearsheet

Dave & Buster's Entertainment (PLAY)


Market Price (7/15/2026): $9.565 | Market Cap: $331.5 MilSector: Communication Services | Industry: Movies & Entertainment

Dave & Buster's Entertainment (PLAY)


Market Price (7/15/2026): $9.565
Market Cap: $331.5 Mil
Sector: Communication Services
Industry: Movies & Entertainment

Investment Highlights Why It Matters Detailed financial logic regarding cash flow yields vs trend-riding momentum.

0

Attractive cash flow generation
CFO/Rev LTMCash Flow from Operations / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is 15%

Valuation becoming less expensive
P/S 6M Chg %Price/Sales change over 6 months. Declining P/S indicates valuation has become less expensive. is -41%

Megatrend and thematic drivers
Megatrends include Experience Economy & Premiumization, and Digital Content & Streaming. Themes include Experiential Retail, and Gaming Content & Platforms.

Weak multi-year price returns
2Y Excs Rtn is -110%, 3Y Excs Rtn is -150%

Debt is significant
Net D/ENet Debt/Equity. Debt net of cash. Negative indicates net cash. Equity is taken as the Market Capitalization is 946%

Weak revenue growth
Rev Chg 3Y AvgRevenue Change % averaged over trailing 3 years is -0.2%, Rev Chg QQuarterly Revenue Change % is -1.5%

Not cash flow generative
FCF/Rev LTMFree Cash Flow / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is -1.6%

Yield minus risk free rate is negative
ERPEquity Risk Premium (ERP) = Total Yield - Risk Free Rate, Reflects the premium above risk free assets offered by the investment. is -24%

Significant short interest
Short Interest % of Basic SharesShort Interest % of Basic Shares = (Short Interest Quantity) / (Basic Shares Outstanding). A high fraction of short interest can indicate potential risk of a short squeeze. is 33%

Key risks
PLAY key risks include [1] declining comparable store sales driven by potentially waning customer interest in the brand, Show more.

0 Attractive cash flow generation
CFO/Rev LTMCash Flow from Operations / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is 15%
1 Valuation becoming less expensive
P/S 6M Chg %Price/Sales change over 6 months. Declining P/S indicates valuation has become less expensive. is -41%
2 Megatrend and thematic drivers
Megatrends include Experience Economy & Premiumization, and Digital Content & Streaming. Themes include Experiential Retail, and Gaming Content & Platforms.
3 Weak multi-year price returns
2Y Excs Rtn is -110%, 3Y Excs Rtn is -150%
4 Debt is significant
Net D/ENet Debt/Equity. Debt net of cash. Negative indicates net cash. Equity is taken as the Market Capitalization is 946%
5 Weak revenue growth
Rev Chg 3Y AvgRevenue Change % averaged over trailing 3 years is -0.2%, Rev Chg QQuarterly Revenue Change % is -1.5%
6 Not cash flow generative
FCF/Rev LTMFree Cash Flow / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is -1.6%
7 Yield minus risk free rate is negative
ERPEquity Risk Premium (ERP) = Total Yield - Risk Free Rate, Reflects the premium above risk free assets offered by the investment. is -24%
8 Significant short interest
Short Interest % of Basic SharesShort Interest % of Basic Shares = (Short Interest Quantity) / (Basic Shares Outstanding). A high fraction of short interest can indicate potential risk of a short squeeze. is 33%
9 Key risks
PLAY key risks include [1] declining comparable store sales driven by potentially waning customer interest in the brand, Show more.

PLAY in ETFs

Weight = PLAY's share of each fund

VTI0.00%
ITOT0.00%
IWM0.01%
FNDA0.05%
IWO0.02%
VTWO0.01%
SCHA0.01%
IWV0.00%
+1 more covered ETF

Valuation & Metrics

Price Chart

Why The Stock Moved

Qualitative Assessment

AI Analysis | Feedback

Updated on 7/14/2026

Dave & Buster's Entertainment (PLAY) stock has lost about 10% since 3/31/2026 because of the following key factors:

1. Dave & Buster's reported a significant earnings miss for its fiscal Q1 2026, which ended May 5, 2026.

The company announced results on June 15, 2026, reporting an Adjusted EPS of $0.22, falling short of analysts' consensus estimates of $0.60 by $0.38. Revenue for the quarter decreased 1.5% year-over-year to $559.2 million, missing the consensus estimate of $580.6 million. Net income also substantially declined to $5.7 million, or $0.16 per diluted share, from $21.7 million, or $0.62 per diluted share, in fiscal Q1 2025.

2. The company experienced a notable decline in comparable store sales, indicating weakening consumer demand for discretionary entertainment.

Comparable store sales decreased by 5.4% in fiscal Q1 2026 compared to the same period in fiscal 2025. This marks the thirteenth consecutive quarter of declining comparable store sales and was a more pronounced contraction than the 3.3% decline (1.5% adjusted for weather) seen in the prior fiscal quarter. This trend raises concerns among rating agencies and analysts about the company's ability to attract and retain customer interest amidst consumer budgetary pressures.

Show more
Updated on 7/14/2026

Dave & Buster's Entertainment (PLAY) stock has lost about 10% since 3/31/2026 because of the following key factors:

1. Dave & Buster's reported a significant earnings miss for its fiscal Q1 2026, which ended May 5, 2026.

The company announced results on June 15, 2026, reporting an Adjusted EPS of $0.22, falling short of analysts' consensus estimates of $0.60 by $0.38. Revenue for the quarter decreased 1.5% year-over-year to $559.2 million, missing the consensus estimate of $580.6 million. Net income also substantially declined to $5.7 million, or $0.16 per diluted share, from $21.7 million, or $0.62 per diluted share, in fiscal Q1 2025.

2. The company experienced a notable decline in comparable store sales, indicating weakening consumer demand for discretionary entertainment.

Comparable store sales decreased by 5.4% in fiscal Q1 2026 compared to the same period in fiscal 2025. This marks the thirteenth consecutive quarter of declining comparable store sales and was a more pronounced contraction than the 3.3% decline (1.5% adjusted for weather) seen in the prior fiscal quarter. This trend raises concerns among rating agencies and analysts about the company's ability to attract and retain customer interest amidst consumer budgetary pressures.

3. Analysts reacted to the weak fiscal Q1 2026 performance with downgrades and price target reductions.

Following the earnings report, several analysts lowered their price targets and some downgraded their ratings for PLAY. On June 16, 2026, UBS cut its price target to $12 from $13, maintaining a "Hold" rating, while Benchmark Co. downgraded the stock to a "Hold." William Blair and Raymond James also maintained "Hold" ratings.

4. Persistent profitability headwinds and a highly leveraged balance sheet continue to concern investors.

Dave & Buster's faces negative forecasts for key profitability metrics, with expected negative forward EBITDA, EBIT, and EPS, including a projected -66% rate for diluted EBITDA growth. The company carries a significant debt load of $1.5 billion, resulting in a high debt-to-equity ratio near 4,000% and a total debt/EBITDA ratio of approximately 5x, which is considered risky for the service industry. S&P Global Ratings also forecasts negative Free Operating Cash Flow (FOCF) of $40 million for fiscal 2026, primarily due to continued traffic softness and contracting EBITDA margins.

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Stock Movement Drivers

Fundamental Drivers

The -11.9% change in PLAY stock from 3/31/2026 to 7/14/2026 was primarily driven by a -12.1% change in the company's P/S Multiple.
(LTM values as of)33120267142026Change
Stock Price ($)10.839.54-11.9%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)2,1032,094-0.4%
P/S Multiple0.20.2-12.1%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)35350.6%
Cumulative Contribution-11.9%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

3/31/2026 to 7/14/2026
ReturnCorrelation
PLAY-11.9% 
Market (SPY)15.6%18.3%
Sector (XLC)0.5%40.0%

Fundamental Drivers

The -41.1% change in PLAY stock from 12/31/2025 to 7/14/2026 was primarily driven by a -40.5% change in the company's P/S Multiple.
(LTM values as of)123120257142026Change
Stock Price ($)16.219.54-41.1%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)2,1082,094-0.6%
P/S Multiple0.30.2-40.5%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)3535-0.4%
Cumulative Contribution-41.1%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

12/31/2025 to 7/14/2026
ReturnCorrelation
PLAY-41.1% 
Market (SPY)10.6%29.6%
Sector (XLC)-5.0%33.1%

Fundamental Drivers

The -68.3% change in PLAY stock from 6/30/2025 to 7/14/2026 was primarily driven by a -68.1% change in the company's P/S Multiple.
(LTM values as of)63020257142026Change
Stock Price ($)30.089.54-68.3%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)2,1122,094-0.8%
P/S Multiple0.50.2-68.1%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)35350.2%
Cumulative Contribution-68.3%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

6/30/2025 to 7/14/2026
ReturnCorrelation
PLAY-68.3% 
Market (SPY)22.7%28.2%
Sector (XLC)3.7%31.9%

Fundamental Drivers

The -78.6% change in PLAY stock from 6/30/2023 to 7/14/2026 was primarily driven by a -84.4% change in the company's P/S Multiple.
(LTM values as of)63020237142026Change
Stock Price ($)44.569.54-78.6%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)2,1112,094-0.8%
P/S Multiple1.00.2-84.4%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)483538.3%
Cumulative Contribution-78.6%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

6/30/2023 to 7/14/2026
ReturnCorrelation
PLAY-78.6% 
Market (SPY)75.6%32.3%
Sector (XLC)76.7%30.6%

Return vs. Risk

Price Returns Compared

 202120222023202420252026Total [1]
Returns
PLAY Return28%-8%52%-46%-44%-38%-67%
Peers Return2%4%23%57%-0%22%148%
S&P 500 Return27%-19%24%23%16%10%100%

Monthly Win Rates [3]
PLAY Win Rate50%42%42%42%33%43% 
Peers Win Rate51%45%62%65%45%60% 
S&P 500 Win Rate75%42%67%75%67%57% 

Max Drawdowns [4]
PLAY Max Drawdown-39%-38%-29%-63%-62%-54% 
Peers Max Drawdown-34%-35%-30%-20%-34%-22% 
S&P 500 Max Drawdown-5%-25%-10%-8%-19%-9% 


[1] Cumulative total returns since the beginning of 2021
[2] Peers: LUCK, EAT, CAKE, DRI, TXRH. See PLAY Returns vs. Peers.
[3] Win Rate = % of calendar months in which monthly returns were positive
[4] Max drawdown represents maximum peak-to-trough decline within a year
[5] 2026 data is for the year up to 7/14/2026 (YTD)

How Low Can It Go

EventPLAYS&P 500
2025 US Tariff Shock
  % Loss-36.3%-18.8%
  % Gain to Breakeven56.9%23.1%
  Time to Breakeven62 days79 days
2024 Yen Carry Trade Unwind
  % Loss-16.2%-7.8%
  % Gain to Breakeven19.3%8.5%
  Time to Breakeven65 days18 days
Summer-Fall 2023 Five Percent Yield Shock
  % Loss-27.4%-9.5%
  % Gain to Breakeven37.7%10.5%
  Time to Breakeven56 days24 days
2023 SVB Regional Banking Crisis
  % Loss-27.1%-6.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven37.2%7.1%
  Time to Breakeven8 days31 days
2022 Inflation Shock & Fed Tightening
  % Loss-21.6%-24.5%
  % Gain to Breakeven27.6%32.4%
  Time to Breakeven15 days427 days
2020 COVID-19 Crash
  % Loss-89.5%-33.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven849.7%50.9%
  Time to Breakeven359 days140 days

Compare to LUCK, EAT, CAKE, DRI, TXRH

In The Past

Dave & Buster's Entertainment's stock fell -36.3% during the 2025 US Tariff Shock. Such a loss loss requires a 56.9% gain to breakeven.

Preserve Wealth

Limiting losses and compounding gains is essential to preserving wealth.

Asset Allocation

Actively managed asset allocation strategies protect wealth. Learn more.

EventPLAYS&P 500
2025 US Tariff Shock
  % Loss-36.3%-18.8%
  % Gain to Breakeven56.9%23.1%
  Time to Breakeven62 days79 days
Summer-Fall 2023 Five Percent Yield Shock
  % Loss-27.4%-9.5%
  % Gain to Breakeven37.7%10.5%
  Time to Breakeven56 days24 days
2023 SVB Regional Banking Crisis
  % Loss-27.1%-6.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven37.2%7.1%
  Time to Breakeven8 days31 days
2022 Inflation Shock & Fed Tightening
  % Loss-21.6%-24.5%
  % Gain to Breakeven27.6%32.4%
  Time to Breakeven15 days427 days
2020 COVID-19 Crash
  % Loss-89.5%-33.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven849.7%50.9%
  Time to Breakeven359 days140 days
Q4 2018 Fed Policy Error / Growth Scare
  % Loss-33.4%-19.2%
  % Gain to Breakeven50.1%23.8%
  Time to Breakeven1877 days105 days

Compare to LUCK, EAT, CAKE, DRI, TXRH

In The Past

Dave & Buster's Entertainment's stock fell -36.3% during the 2025 US Tariff Shock. Such a loss loss requires a 56.9% gain to breakeven.

Preserve Wealth

Limiting losses and compounding gains is essential to preserving wealth.

Asset Allocation

Actively managed asset allocation strategies protect wealth. Learn more.

About Dave & Buster's Entertainment (PLAY)

Dave & Buster's Entertainment, Inc. (PLAY) operates a chain of large entertainment and dining venues across North America. The company's business model uniquely combines a full-service restaurant experience with an extensive array of entertainment options, positioning its venues as comprehensive destinations for both adults and families seeking a dynamic social outing.

The core offerings at each Dave & Buster's location include a diverse menu of entrées and appetizers, complemented by a wide selection of non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages. Beyond dining, the primary draw is an assortment of entertainment attractions, prominently featuring various arcade games, alongside dedicated areas for watching live sports and other televised events. This blend of food, drinks, and amusement constitutes its main products and services.

Serving a broad demographic of adults and families, the company operates its venues under the Dave & Buster's name. As of early 2022, it had established a significant footprint with 144 stores located across 40 U.S. states, Puerto Rico, and one Canadian province, catering to the North American leisure and hospitality market.

AI Analysis | Feedback

Here are 1-3 brief analogies for Dave & Buster's Entertainment:

  • A grown-up Chuck E. Cheese.
  • An Applebee's or TGI Fridays that also has a huge video arcade and sports bar.

AI Analysis | Feedback

  • Food & Beverage Services: Provides a diverse menu of entrées, appetizers, non-alcoholic, and alcoholic beverages to customers within its venues.
  • Entertainment Services: Offers a wide range of attractions including arcade games, amusements, and spaces for watching live sports and other televised events.

AI Analysis | Feedback

Major Customers of Dave & Buster's Entertainment (PLAY)

Dave & Buster's Entertainment, Inc. sells primarily to individual consumers.

The company serves the following categories of customers:

  • Families: Seeking an all-in-one entertainment and dining destination suitable for multiple generations, including children and adults.
  • Young Adults and Adults: Individuals or groups looking for a vibrant social environment to play games, watch live sports, and enjoy food and alcoholic beverages for a night out or casual gathering.
  • Groups and Organizations: Customers booking private events, birthday parties, corporate team-building events, or other celebrations at the venues.

AI Analysis | Feedback

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Tarun Lal, Chief Executive Officer

Tarun Lal joined Dave & Buster's in July 2025 as Chief Executive Officer. He brings over 25 years of experience from Yum! Brands, where he most recently served as President of KFC U.S., overseeing all aspects of the brand's U.S. operations. Prior to this, Mr. Lal held significant leadership roles, including Global COO for KFC and Managing Director for KFC Middle East, Turkey, Africa, India, and Pakistan, where he was responsible for major brand expansions and delivering consistent growth across various complex markets.

Darin Harper, Chief Financial Officer

Darin Harper joined Dave & Buster's in June 2024, bringing over 25 years of finance experience in both the public and private sectors, working with multisite consumer, retail, and entertainment brands. Most recently, he was CFO of World Choice Investments, LLC. He previously served as EVP, Chief Financial Officer for Main Event Entertainment, Inc. from March 2017 until its acquisition by Dave & Buster's in June 2022, where he oversaw all finance, accounting, legal, risk, and audit functions and helped lead the company through significant growth. Concurrently, he was Group CFO for Main Event's parent company, Ardent Leisure, from June 2018 to June 2022. Main Event Entertainment, Inc. was acquired from RedBird Capital Partners, a private equity firm, indicating his experience with private equity-backed companies. Earlier in his career, he was CFO at On the Border Mexican Grill & Cantina and Principal Accounting Officer at Chuck E. Cheese, starting his career with PricewaterhouseCoopers.

Antonio Bautista, President, International Development

Antonio Bautista has served as President of International Development since January 2026, and previously as Chief International Development Officer since August 2022, and Head of International Development since July 2022. His prior roles include CEO of ALBP Global Hospitality Solutions (September 2020 - December 2021), Chief Operations Officer of Fogo De Chao (July 2019 - July 2020), and Senior Vice President, Hard Rock Cafe and Retail Division, and Franchise Development and Operations at Hard Rock International (December 2010 - June 2019). He also served as President and Chief Operating Officer of Gourmet Gulf LLC from 2007 to 2010.

Tony Wehner, President, Main Event

Tony Wehner has served as President of Main Event since January 2026. Prior to this, he was Dave & Buster's Chief Operating Officer since August 2022. His experience also includes serving as Chief Operating Officer at Main Event Entertainment (January 2021 - July 2022), Chief Executive Officer of BigShots Golf (January 2020 - January 2021), Chief Operating Officer of Bar Louie (June 2017 - January 2020), and Senior Vice President Operations at Logan's Roadhouse (February 2016 - 2017).

Cory Hatton, Head of Entertainment Finance, Investor Relations & Treasurer

Cory Hatton joined Dave & Buster's in October 2022 as Vice President, Investor Relations & Treasurer and was promoted to Head of Entertainment Finance, Investor Relations & Treasurer in March 2025.

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AI Analysis | Feedback

  1. Sensitivity to Macroeconomic Headwinds and Declining Discretionary Spending

    Dave & Buster's is highly vulnerable to economic fluctuations, inflation, and changes in consumer discretionary spending, especially from lower-income households. This sensitivity directly impacts comparable store sales, which have seen persistent declines in recent fiscal quarters.
  2. High Debt Load and Leverage

    The company carries a substantial amount of debt, with a high debt-to-equity ratio and significant leverage, which limits its financial flexibility. This elevated debt burden increases its vulnerability to adverse economic conditions and could pose a risk of permanent loss of capital for investors.
  3. Intense Competition and Execution Risk of Turnaround Strategy

    Operating within a highly competitive entertainment and dining sector, Dave & Buster's faces continuous pressure to innovate and maintain market share. The company has experienced past management missteps and is currently undertaking a turnaround strategy, which carries inherent execution risks and challenges related to improving operational efficiency and reversing declining profit margins.

AI Analysis | Feedback

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AI Analysis | Feedback

Dave & Buster's Entertainment (symbol: PLAY) operates entertainment and dining venues in North America. The addressable markets for its main products and services in North America are as follows:

  • Food and Beverages: The North America foodservice market, which includes restaurants and dining establishments, was valued at approximately USD 1,087.43 billion in 2024. This market is projected to grow to USD 1,886.64 billion by 2032.

  • Entertainment and Gaming: The North America Family Entertainment Centers (FEC) market, which encompasses venues offering various recreational activities including indoor games, arcade gaming, and dining options, was valued at USD 11.61 billion in 2024. This market is expected to reach USD 29.15 billion by 2032.

AI Analysis | Feedback

Here are the expected drivers of future revenue growth for Dave & Buster's Entertainment (PLAY) over the next 2-3 years:
  1. Unit Expansion (Domestic and International): Dave & Buster's is actively pursuing a multi-faceted expansion strategy, focusing on both domestic growth and significant international market entry. The company plans to open 10 to 12 new stores and one relocation in fiscal 2025, with a long-term vision to reach over 500 locations across the U.S. and Canada for both its Dave & Buster's and Main Event brands. Internationally, the company is making substantial strides, with franchise partnerships in place for 33 locations across six countries, including the Middle East, India, and Australia, and expects to open at least six additional international franchise units within the next year.
  2. Remodeling and Enhancement of Existing Stores: The company is undertaking a major remodeling program to refresh the look and enhance the customer experience in its existing locations. By the end of fiscal 2024, Dave & Buster's expected to have 40 to 45 stores remodeled, with most stores refreshed by 2026. These remodels are designed to improve efficiency, customer experience, and have shown to drive double-digit sales growth.
  3. New Game Offerings and Entertainment Enhancements: Dave & Buster's continuously focuses on enhancing its entertainment attractions by introducing new game titles and experiences. For example, the company plans to introduce 10 new games in 2026, with tests showing high marketability and customer resonance. The rollout of games like "Human Crane" to all locations is also expected to boost sales.
  4. Revamped Menu and Food & Beverage Strategy: The company has launched a new menu featuring significantly more items and fan favorites, which has delivered strong results by driving higher average checks and stronger volumes. This strategy aims to increase the percentage of guests who play games and also eat food, returning that number to historical levels.
  5. Growth of Loyalty Program and Data Utilization: Dave & Buster's is improving its data capabilities to enhance its loyalty program with additional personalization opportunities. The company's 5.4 million loyalty members currently visit more than 50% more often and spend approximately 15% more per visit than other customers, indicating that further growth and personalization in this area can drive increased customer engagement and spending.

AI Analysis | Feedback

Share Repurchases

  • In fiscal year 2024, Dave & Buster's repurchased approximately 5 million shares totaling $172.0 million.
  • As of year-to-date fiscal 2025, the company repurchased approximately 1.0 million shares for $23.9 million.
  • In September 2023, the Board of Directors increased the existing share repurchase authorization by $100 million, bringing the total remaining authorization to $200 million. An additional $100 million was authorized in December 2024.

Inbound Investments

  • In May 2020, Jefferies LLC agreed to invest $100 million in common stock in Dave & Buster's.

Outbound Investments

  • In June 2022, Dave & Buster's acquired Main Event Entertainment for approximately $835 million, significantly expanding its operational footprint.

Capital Expenditures

  • For fiscal year 2025, capital investments are projected to not exceed $220 million, focusing on new store development and strategic remodels, with plans to open 10 to 12 new locations.
  • In fiscal year 2024, the company opened 14 new locations and completed 15 remodels, contributing to a total of 44 remodels since 2023.
  • Dave & Buster's generated $111.4 million in proceeds in fiscal year 2024 from a sale-leaseback transaction for five properties to support capital-intensive initiatives.

Better Bets vs. Dave & Buster's Entertainment (PLAY)

Recent Active Movers

Peer Comparisons

Peers to compare with:

Financials

PLAYLUCKEATCAKEDRITXRHMedian
NameDave & B.Lucky St.Brinker .Cheeseca.Darden R.Texas Ro. 
Mkt Price9.547.18185.3380.44195.74189.09132.88
Mkt Cap0.31.08.03.722.512.55.9
Rev LTM2,0941,2435,7343,80312,7646,0644,768
Op Inc LTM881546112591,509499379
FCF LTM-33-227504171994355263
FCF 3Y Avg-106-86347117992337227
CFO LTM3091387583191,735751535
CFO 3Y Avg3301525762731,667706453

Growth & Margins

PLAYLUCKEATCAKEDRITXRHMedian
NameDave & B.Lucky St.Brinker .Cheeseca.Darden R.Texas Ro. 
Rev Chg LTM-0.8%4.9%11.8%5.1%8.5%10.3%6.8%
Rev Chg 3Y Avg-0.2%4.6%12.2%4.1%7.3%13.0%6.0%
Rev Chg Q-1.5%0.7%3.2%5.6%5.9%12.8%4.4%
QoQ Delta Rev Chg LTM-0.4%0.2%0.8%1.4%1.5%3.2%1.1%
Op Inc Chg LTM-59.8%0.7%23.1%10.2%6.4%-6.3%3.5%
Op Inc Chg 3Y Avg-29.4%-10.1%58.2%35.1%9.3%15.1%12.2%
Op Mgn LTM4.2%12.4%10.7%6.8%11.8%8.2%9.4%
Op Mgn 3Y Avg9.2%12.9%8.7%6.2%11.9%8.7%9.0%
QoQ Delta Op Mgn LTM-0.8%0.3%-0.0%-0.1%-0.0%-0.1%-0.1%
CFO/Rev LTM14.7%11.1%13.2%8.4%13.6%12.4%12.8%
CFO/Rev 3Y Avg15.4%13.0%11.1%7.5%14.0%13.0%13.0%
FCF/Rev LTM-1.6%-18.3%8.8%4.5%7.8%5.8%5.2%
FCF/Rev 3Y Avg-5.0%-7.0%6.6%3.2%8.4%6.2%4.7%

Valuation

PLAYLUCKEATCAKEDRITXRHMedian
NameDave & B.Lucky St.Brinker .Cheeseca.Darden R.Texas Ro. 
Mkt Cap0.31.08.03.722.512.55.9
P/S0.20.81.41.01.82.11.2
P/Op Inc3.76.313.114.514.925.013.8
P/EBIT5.35.313.419.515.725.014.5
P/E-5.1-11.617.322.720.430.018.8
P/CFO1.17.010.611.713.016.611.2
Total Yield-19.6%-8.7%5.8%5.8%8.0%4.1%4.9%
Dividend Yield0.0%0.0%0.0%1.4%3.0%0.8%0.4%
FCF Yield 3Y Avg-18.0%-7.2%6.9%5.2%4.5%3.1%3.8%
D/E9.52.90.20.60.30.10.4
Net D/E9.52.80.20.50.30.10.4

Returns

PLAYLUCKEATCAKEDRITXRHMedian
NameDave & B.Lucky St.Brinker .Cheeseca.Darden R.Texas Ro. 
1M Rtn-26.2%-18.0%16.3%6.9%-6.7%12.6%0.1%
3M Rtn-29.6%-12.0%16.4%32.0%-0.3%15.6%7.6%
6M Rtn-46.9%-19.4%11.5%35.9%-3.7%0.5%-1.6%
12M Rtn-70.2%-28.3%12.1%27.6%-3.6%2.0%-0.8%
3Y Rtn-79.0%-34.6%388.2%141.9%28.9%74.1%51.5%
1M Excs Rtn-29.6%-20.5%14.7%5.3%-8.4%10.7%-1.6%
3M Excs Rtn-34.1%-21.1%10.7%27.7%-6.7%7.3%0.3%
6M Excs Rtn-53.1%-25.8%7.5%32.7%-10.0%-4.1%-7.1%
12M Excs Rtn-91.0%-47.1%-8.2%6.2%-24.0%-18.3%-21.2%
3Y Excs Rtn-150.1%-104.2%338.5%81.0%-39.5%7.9%-15.8%

Comparison Analyses

Financials

Segment Financials

Revenue by Segment
$ Mil20262025202420232022
Single Segment2,1032,1332,2051,964 
Entertainment revenues    867
Food and beverage revenues    437
Total2,1032,1332,2051,9641,304


Price Behavior

Price Behavior
Market Price$9.54 
Market Cap ($ Bil)0.3 
First Trading Date12/29/2006 
Distance from 52W High-72.1% 
   50 Days200 Days
DMA Price$11.61$14.86
DMA Trenddowndown
Distance from DMA-17.9%-35.8%
 3M1YR
Volatility69.6%71.2%
Downside Capture205.90265.54
Upside Capture-8.7763.32
Correlation (SPY)10.3%27.9%
PLAY Betas & Captures as of 6/30/2026

 1M2M3M6M1Y3Y
Beta-0.80-0.061.291.581.621.30
Up Beta2.351.292.301.591.891.28
Down Beta-0.93-0.83-1.561.171.271.05
Up Capture-233%-5%140%125%75%101%
Bmk +ve Days11244067140429
Stock +ve Days9213358105335
Down Capture-75%-18%186%186%170%111%
Bmk -ve Days10172358112321
Stock -ve Days12203067144409

[1] Upside and downside betas calculated using positive and negative benchmark daily returns respectively
Based On 1-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with PLAY
PLAY-70.6%71.1%-1.42-
Sector ETF (XLC)6.2%13.8%0.2032.7%
Equity (SPY)21.7%12.6%1.2828.0%
Gold (GLD)20.5%27.9%0.653.9%
Commodities (DBC)27.3%18.9%1.14-20.5%
Real Estate (VNQ)13.0%13.9%0.6427.2%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)-47.0%42.7%-1.379.4%

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Based On 5-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with PLAY
PLAY-24.0%60.1%-0.22-
Sector ETF (XLC)7.4%20.7%0.2736.2%
Equity (SPY)13.1%17.1%0.5939.0%
Gold (GLD)17.2%18.4%0.761.8%
Commodities (DBC)8.6%19.5%0.334.2%
Real Estate (VNQ)2.7%18.9%0.0434.4%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)12.8%53.4%0.4218.2%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How
Based On 10-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with PLAY
PLAY-14.2%70.8%0.09-
Sector ETF (XLC)9.2%22.1%0.4736.2%
Equity (SPY)15.4%17.9%0.7340.5%
Gold (GLD)11.2%16.1%0.573.0%
Commodities (DBC)6.3%18.0%0.2714.5%
Real Estate (VNQ)5.0%20.7%0.2139.5%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)57.3%66.2%0.9714.6%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How

Short Interest

Short Interest: As Of Date6302026
Short Interest: Shares Quantity11.5 Mil
Short Interest: % Change Since 61520267.9%
Average Daily Volume2.3 Mil
Days-to-Cover Short Interest5.0 days
Basic Shares Quantity34.7 Mil
Short % of Basic Shares33.3%

Earnings Returns History

Updated 6/25/2026
Expand for More
 Forward Returns
Earnings Date1D Returns5D Returns21D Returns
6/15/2026-6.2%-8.5% 
3/31/202616.1%20.5%4.1%
12/9/202513.0%2.9%-3.7%
9/15/2025-16.7%-19.3%-22.4%
6/10/202517.7%26.4%23.9%
4/7/2025-0.8%9.2%29.6%
12/10/2024-20.1%-21.0%-26.8%
9/10/20244.7%6.7%7.0%
...
SUMMARY STATS   
# Positive131412
# Negative111011
Median Positive10.3%10.1%18.3%
Median Negative-7.4%-12.2%-15.5%
Max Positive18.3%36.6%35.4%
Max Negative-20.1%-21.6%-26.8%
Collapse to Preview
 Forward Returns
Earnings Date1D Returns5D Returns21D Returns
6/15/2026-6.2%-8.5% 
3/31/202616.1%20.5%4.1%
12/9/202513.0%2.9%-3.7%
9/15/2025-16.7%-19.3%-22.4%
6/10/202517.7%26.4%23.9%
4/7/2025-0.8%9.2%29.6%
12/10/2024-20.1%-21.0%-26.8%
9/10/20244.7%6.7%7.0%
6/12/2024-10.9%-15.8%-22.4%
4/2/202410.3%1.8%-15.5%
12/5/20234.4%10.6%20.9%
6/6/202318.3%36.6%32.0%
3/28/20230.7%-3.9%-4.2%
12/6/2022-7.4%-1.6%6.6%
9/7/2022-14.2%-15.2%-26.6%
7/12/20222.5%11.9%35.4%
3/28/202214.9%8.7%6.6%
12/7/20218.6%14.9%15.8%
9/9/20211.2%2.9%7.6%
6/10/2021-2.7%-9.1%-11.0%
3/31/2021-5.4%-6.7%-4.7%
12/10/2020-2.8%9.6%31.8%
9/11/2020-8.3%-21.6%-10.7%
6/11/202013.5%14.3%-19.3%
SUMMARY STATS   
# Positive131412
# Negative111011
Median Positive10.3%10.1%18.3%
Median Negative-7.4%-12.2%-15.5%
Max Positive18.3%36.6%35.4%
Max Negative-20.1%-21.6%-26.8%

SEC Filings

Expand for More
Report DateFiling DateFiling
04/30/202606/15/202610-Q
01/31/202603/31/202610-K
10/31/202512/09/202510-Q
07/31/202509/15/202510-Q
04/30/202506/10/202510-Q
01/31/202504/07/202510-K
10/31/202412/10/202410-Q
07/31/202409/10/202410-Q
04/30/202406/12/202410-Q
01/31/202404/02/202410-K
10/31/202312/05/202310-Q
07/31/202309/06/202310-Q
04/30/202306/06/202310-Q
01/31/202303/28/202310-K
10/31/202212/06/202210-Q
07/31/202209/07/202210-Q
Collapse to Preview
Report DateFiling DateFiling
04/30/202606/15/202610-Q
01/31/202603/31/202610-K
10/31/202512/09/202510-Q
07/31/202509/15/202510-Q
04/30/202506/10/202510-Q
01/31/202504/07/202510-K
10/31/202412/10/202410-Q
07/31/202409/10/202410-Q
04/30/202406/12/202410-Q
01/31/202404/02/202410-K
10/31/202312/05/202310-Q
07/31/202309/06/202310-Q
04/30/202306/06/202310-Q
01/31/202303/28/202310-K
10/31/202212/06/202210-Q
07/31/202209/07/202210-Q
04/30/202206/07/202210-Q
01/31/202203/29/202210-K
10/31/202112/07/202110-Q
07/31/202109/09/202110-Q
04/30/202106/10/202110-Q
01/31/202103/31/202110-K
10/31/202012/10/202010-Q
07/31/202009/10/202010-Q
04/30/202006/11/202010-Q
01/31/202004/03/202010-K
10/31/201912/10/201910-Q
07/31/201909/10/201910-Q

Recent Forward Guidance

Updated 7/12/2026

Latest: Q1 2026 Earnings Reported 6/15/2026

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
2026 Free Cash Flow 100.00 Mil 0 AffirmedGuidance: 100.00 Mil for 2026

Prior: Q3 2025 Earnings Reported 12/9/2025

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
Q4 2025 New Domestic Dave & Buster's Stores 2    
2025 Total New Stores 11    
2026 New International Franchise Stores 4    

Q3 2025 Earnings Reported 12/9/2025

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
Q4 2025 New Domestic Dave & Buster's Stores 2    
2025 Total New Stores 11    
2026 New International Franchise Stores 4    

Insider Activity

Updated 7/1/2026
Expand for More
#OwnerTitleHoldingActionFiling DatePriceSharesTransacted
Value
Value of
Held Shares
Form
1Klohn, SteveSVP Chief Information OfficerDirectSell417202614.696,989102,668566,255Form
2Lal, TarunChief Executive OfficerDirectBuy327202618.391,00018,390212,588Form
3Lal, TarunChief Executive OfficerDirectBuy327202620.522,50051,300216,691Form
4Rodriguez, Rodolfo JRSVP, Chief Legal OfficerDirectBuy120202620.1073014,673291,450Form
5Lal, TarunChief Executive OfficerDirectBuy724202531.268,060251,916251,916Form
Collapse to Preview
#OwnerTitleHoldingActionFiling DatePriceSharesTransacted
Value
Value of
Held Shares
Form
1Klohn, SteveSVP Chief Information OfficerDirectSell417202614.696,989102,668566,255Form
2Lal, TarunChief Executive OfficerDirectBuy327202618.391,00018,390212,588Form
3Lal, TarunChief Executive OfficerDirectBuy327202620.522,50051,300216,691Form
4Rodriguez, Rodolfo JRSVP, Chief Legal OfficerDirectBuy120202620.1073014,673291,450Form
5Lal, TarunChief Executive OfficerDirectBuy724202531.268,060251,916251,916Form

Investor Activity (13F)

Updated Jul 15, 2026
13F holdings as of Mar 31, 2026 (Q1 2026)

Active managers (13F portfolio over $250M, at least 3 holdings) with a position over $5M that is either over 10% of their portfolio or held in a concentrated book of 50 or fewer total positions. Index/ETF, sovereign, bank and community-bank filers are excluded.

Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
Hill Path Capital LP$77.1 Mil5.6%7Hold13F
Eminence Capital, LP$25.4 Mil0.6%33Hold13F
Patient Capital Management, LLC$12.5 Mil0.5%38TRIM -30.8%13F
Active Manager
Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
Patient Capital Management, LLC$12.5 Mil0.5%38TRIM -30.8%13F
Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
Hill Path Capital LP$77.1 Mil5.6%7Hold13F
Eminence Capital, LP$25.4 Mil0.6%33Hold13F
Patient Capital Management, LLC$12.5 Mil0.5%38TRIM -30.8%13F

Industry Resources

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Movies & Entertainment Resources
Deadline
IndieWire
Screen Daily
Core Cache Last Updated: 7/14/2026