Playtika Holding Corp. (PLTK)

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

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the related notes included elsewhere in this annual report on Form 10-K. This discussion and analysis contains forward-looking statements that involve certain risks and uncertainties. Our actual results could differ materially from those discussed in these statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to these differences include those discussed below and elsewhere in this annual report on Form 10-K, particularly under the “Risk Factors” and “Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” sections.

Overview

We are one of the world’s leading developers of mobile games creating fun, innovative experiences that entertain and engage our users. We have built best-in-class live game operations services and proprietary technology tools to support our portfolio of games which enable us to drive strong user engagement and monetization. Our games are free-to-play, and we are experts in providing novel, curated in-game content and offers to our users, at optimal points in their game journeys. Our players love our games because they are fun, creative, engaging, and kept fresh through a release of new features that are customized for different player segments. As a result, we have retained paying users over long periods of time.

Recent Events

On October 7, 2023, the State of Israel was attacked by Hamas, and the State of Israel subsequently declared war on Hamas. Since that time, Israel has been engaged in a multi-front armed conflict with combatants located in Gaza, the West Bank, Syria, Iran, Lebanon and Yemen. Following a period of intense conflict, a temporary ceasefire was reached between Israel and Hamas on January 17, 2025. A separate ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon was reached on November 27, 2024. While this marked a step towards de-escalation, the situation in the region remains volatile and fragile. While this war and these conflicts have not had a direct material financial impact on the Company as of the date of this filing, the Company’s headquarters are located in Israel, and the Company employs approximately 1,320 professionals in Israel, including the majority of the Company’s senior leadership team. The Company is actively monitoring the developments in this geographic region.

Key Factors Affecting Our Business

There are a number of factors that affect the performance of our business, and the comparability of our results from period to period, including:

•Conversion of players into paying users and ongoing monetization. While our games are free-to-play, we generate substantially all of our revenues from players’ purchases of in-game virtual items. Our financial performance is dependent, in part, on our ability to convert active players into paying players and sustainably grow user spend over the long term. Our players’ willingness to consistently make in-app purchases is impacted by our ability to deliver engaging content and personalized user experiences.

•Acquisitions of games and new technology. We have grown and expect to continue to grow our business by acquiring games and game studios that have broad appeal and potential for scalable leadership in our core genres, enhance our growth profile, or that we believe can benefit from our live operations services, our design experience, and our scale. When we acquire games and studios, we focus on providing existing audiences with proven content and applying live operations to create a better game experience for users.

•Offering of new games and release of new content, offers, and features. Our key revenue drivers include improving the content, offers, and features in our existing games and the acquisition of new games. In order to enhance the content, offers, and features in our existing games and to develop or acquire new games, we must invest a significant amount of our technological and creative resources, ensuring that we support an effective cadence of novel content creation that drives conversion and continued monetization. These expenditures generally occur months in advance of the release of new content or the launch or acquisition of a new game.

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•User acquisition. We believe that we will be able to continue to grow our user base, including through traditional marketing and advertising, informal marketing campaigns, and cross-promoting between our games, including new games we develop or acquire. We intend to continue to seek new opportunities to enhance and refine these marketing efforts to acquire new users, including identifying potential technologies to enhance our marketing and advertising capabilities.

Components of our Results of Operations

Revenues

We primarily derive revenue from the sale of virtual items associated with online games.

We distribute our games to the end customer through various web and mobile platforms, such as Apple, Facebook, Google and other web and mobile platforms plus our own Direct-to-Consumer platforms. Through these platforms, users can download our free-to-play games and can purchase virtual items to enhance their game-playing experience. Players can purchase virtual items through various widely accepted payment methods offered in the games. Payments from players for virtual items are non-refundable and relate to non-cancellable contracts that specify our obligations and cannot be redeemed for cash nor exchanged for anything other than virtual items within our games.

Our games are played on various third-party platforms for which the platform providers collect proceeds from our customers and pay us an amount after deducting platform fees. For purchases made through both the third-party and Direct-to-Consumer platforms, we are primarily responsible for fulfilling the virtual items, have the control over the content and functionality of games and have the discretion to establish the virtual items’ prices. Therefore, we are the principal and, accordingly revenues are recorded on a gross basis. Payment processing fees paid to platform providers are recorded within cost of revenue.

Cost of revenue

Cost of revenue includes payment processing fees, customer support, hosting fees and depreciation and amortization expenses associated with assets directly involved in the generation of revenues, including servers and internal use software. Platform providers (such as Apple, Facebook and Google) charge a transactional payment processing fee to accept payments from our players for the purchase of in-app virtual goods. Payment processing fees and other related expenses for in-app purchases made through our Direct-to-Consumer platforms are typically 3-4%, compared to a 30% platform fee for third party platforms. We generally expect cost of revenue to fluctuate proportionately with revenues.

Research and development

Research and development consists of salaries, bonuses, benefits, other compensation, including stock-based compensation and allocated overhead, related to engineering, research, and development. In addition, research and development expenses include depreciation and amortization expenses associated with assets associated with our research and development efforts. We expect that research and development expenses specifically associated with new game development will fluctuate over time.

Sales and marketing

Sales and marketing consists of costs related to advertising and user acquisition, including costs related to salaries, bonuses, benefits, and other compensation, including stock-based compensation and allocated overhead. In addition, sales and marketing expenses include depreciation and amortization expenses associated with assets related to our sales and marketing efforts. We plan to continue to invest in sales and marketing to retain and acquire users. However, sales and marketing expenses may fluctuate as a percentage of revenues depending on the timing and efficiency of our marketing efforts.

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General and administrative

General and administrative expenses consist of salaries, bonuses, benefits, and other compensation, including stock-based compensation, for all our corporate support functional areas, including our senior leadership. In addition, general and administrative expenses include outsourced professional services such as consulting, legal and accounting services, taxes and dues, insurance premiums, and costs associated with maintaining our property and infrastructure. General and administrative expenses also include depreciation and amortization expenses associated with assets not directly attributable to any of the expense categories above. We also record adjustments to contingent consideration payable recorded after the acquisition date, and legal settlement expenses, as components of general and administrative expense.

Impairment charges

Impairment charges in 2024 reflect impairments related to the Redecor game title based upon lower than expected performance of that title, and related to certain investments in unconsolidated affiliates based upon poor performance of those investments leading to significant uncertainty regarding their future viability. We hold certain equity investments in various unconsolidated entities that fall within the scope of ASC 321, Investments - Equity Securities. As permitted within that guidance, we have elected to account for these investments at cost less impairment, adjusted for changes in fair value from observable transactions for identical or similar investments of the same issuer as of the respective transaction dates. Impairment charges in 2023 reflect charges recorded for the excess of the carrying amount over estimated fair value of our identifiable intangible assets.

Interest and other, net

Our interest expense includes interest incurred under our Credit Agreement and amortization of deferred financing costs. We expect to continue to incur interest expense under our Credit Agreement, although such interest expense will fluctuate based upon the underlying variable interest rates. We entered into multiple interest rate swap agreements in March 2021 and in January 2023, accumulating to a total notional value of $1.0 billion, reducing our overall exposure to variable interest rates.

Interest income consists of interest earned on cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments.

Foreign currency translation adjustments, net, include gains and losses resulting from remeasurement of certain non-USD denominated balance sheet items.

Provision for income taxes

The provision for income taxes consists of current income taxes in the various jurisdictions where we are subject to taxation, primarily the United States, the United Kingdom, Israel, Germany, and Austria, as well as deferred income taxes reflecting the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in each of these jurisdictions for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. Under current U.S. tax law, the federal statutory tax rate applicable to corporations is 21%. Our effective tax rate can fluctuate based on various factors, including our financial results and the geographic mix to which they relate, the applicability of special tax regimes, changes in our business or operations, examination-related developments and uncertain tax positions, and changes in tax law.

Net Income

We calculate net income as revenue minus cost of revenues, research and development, sales and marketing, general and administrative expenses, interest and taxes.

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Results of Operations

The tables below show the results of our key financial and operating metrics for the periods indicated.

We measure the performance of our business by using several key financial metrics, including revenue and operating income, and operating metrics, including Daily Active Users, Average Revenue per Daily Active User, Paying Users, and Average Revenue per Paying User. These operating metrics help our management to understand and measure the engagement levels of our players, the size of our audience and our reach. See “Basis of Presentation” and “Summary Consolidated Financial and Other Data” for additional information of these measures.

Comparison of the year ended December 31, 2024 versus the year ended December 31, 2023

Revenues

Revenues for the year ended December 31, 2024 decreased by $17.7 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2023. Social casino revenues decreased approximately $120 million that, along with revenue decreases in several of our casual games, were largely due to reduced monetization. These revenue declines were partially offset by our acquisition of SuperPlay Ltd in 2024 and a full year of revenues from our 2023 acquisitions of Youda Games and InnPlay

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Labs. The increase in revenues generated from Direct-to-Consumer platforms as a percentage of total revenues resulted from marketing activities for the games offered through these platforms.

Cost of revenue

Cost of revenue for the year ended December 31, 2024 decreased by $26.4 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2023. The decrease in cost of revenue includes an approximate $23.8 million decrease in platform fees associated with reduced revenues and a greater percentage of revenue generated from our Direct-to-Consumer platforms, as well as a $2.4 million decrease in site costs.

Research and development expenses

Research and development expenses for the year ended December 31, 2024 decreased by $3.4 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2023. Research and development expenses were primarily impacted by a net decrease of approximate $22.4 million in payroll and associated payroll costs, including stock based compensation, offset by merit increases, a shift of our workforce composition towards higher-cost locations, and an increase in the costs incurred in connection with severance. In addition, research and development related outsourcing costs increased from 2023 to 2024 by approximately $9.3 million and the amount of expense capitalized increased by approximately $6.3 million for new and continuing projects.

Sales and marketing expenses

Sales and marketing expenses for the year ended December 31, 2024 increased by $119.3 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2023. The increase in sales and marketing expenses was primarily due to increased media expenses of approximately $112.1 million relating predominately to our 2024 acquisition of SuperPlay, a full year of expenses for our 2023 acquisition of Youda Games, and increased spend in our Bingo Blitz and Slotomania games. Depreciation and amortization expense also increased approximately $9.4 million, which was partially offset by a net decrease in compensation and associated costs.

General and administrative expenses

General and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2024 decreased by $14.8 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2023. The decrease is primarily due to a net $11.1 million adjustment to contingent consideration related to the SuperPlay, InnPlay Labs, and Youda Games acquisitions, as well as a decrease of approximately $14.2 million in compensation and associated costs. These decreases were offset by an increase of approximately $13.4 million of transaction costs primarily related to the SuperPlay acquisition.

Impairment charges

During the year ended December 31, 2024, we recorded an impairment charge of $29.9 million related to the Redecor game title based upon continued lower than expected performance of that title, and an impairment charge of $36.3 million related to certain investments in unconsolidated affiliates based upon poor performance of those investments leading to significant uncertainty regarding their future viability.

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Comparison of the year ended December 31, 2023 versus the year ended December 31, 2022

Revenues

Revenues for the year ended December 31, 2023 decreased by $48.5 million when compared to the year ended December 31, 2022. Our acquisition of the Youda Games’ card game portfolio and InnPlay Labs contributed to revenues for the year ended December 31, 2023, without which the year-over-year decrease in our revenues would have been greater. Revenue growth from our casual games were unable to offset the revenue declines coming from our social casino-themed games. The increase in revenues generated from Direct-to-Consumer platforms as a percentage of total revenues resulted from marketing activities for the games offered through these platforms.

Cost of revenue

Cost of revenue for the year ended December 31, 2023 decreased by $17.2 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2022. The decrease in cost of revenue includes an approximate $16.8 million decrease in platform fees associated with reduced revenues and a greater percentage of revenue generated from our Direct-to-Consumer platforms, as well as a $3.3 million decrease in depreciation and amortization expenses. Offsetting the decrease is an increase in server hosting costs due to higher fees and the acquisitions of Youda and InnPlay.

Research and development expenses

Research and development expenses for the year ended December 31, 2023 decreased by $65.9 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2022. Research and development expenses were primarily impacted by an approximate $58 million decrease in headcount and associated payroll costs in our existing research and development operations, as well as costs incurred in connection with severance and retention payments incurred in 2022 with no corresponding expense in 2023. In addition, research and development related outsourcing costs decreased from 2022 to 2023 due to a reduction in the number of ongoing projects.

Sales and marketing expenses

Sales and marketing expenses for the year ended December 31, 2023 decreased by $18.0 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2022. The decrease in sales and marketing expenses was primarily related to decreased offline media expenses, depreciation and amortization expense, and decreased headcount and lower associated payroll costs.

General and administrative expenses

General and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2023 decreased by $28.9 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2022. Included in general and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2022,

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with no comparable amounts for the year ended December 31, 2023, are $7.5 million of costs related to the acquisition of Reworks and to certain office closures, and reversals of $14.1 million of contingent consideration expense related to the JustPlay and Reworks acquisitions. General and administrative expenses for the year December 31, 2023 include a $1.0 million tax assessment paid under protest. Further, we incurred $6.6 million and $24.7 million in costs related to strategic alternatives, for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Adjusting for these items, the remaining decrease of general and administrative expenses of approximately $19.8 million is primarily due to decreased compensation costs and, to a lesser degree, a decrease in costs associated with relocation and support provided to employees due to the war in Ukraine.

Impairment charges

During the year ended December 31, 2023, we recorded an impairment charge of $41.6 million related to the Redecor game title based upon lower than expected performance of that title. Also included in the year ended December 31, 2023 is a $9.7 million write-off of JustPlay.LOL Ltd’s game title.

Other Factors Affecting Net Income

Interest expense

Interest expense in 2024, 2023 and 2022 is primarily related to amounts borrowed under the Credit Facilities and senior notes.

The increase in interest expense in 2024 when compared to 2023 is primarily due to slightly higher average interest rates. The increase in interest expense in 2023 when compared with 2022 is primarily related to higher average interest rates.

Interest income

Interest income in 2024, 2023 and 2022 is primarily related to interest earned on cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments.

The increase in interest income for 2024 when compared to 2023 is primarily due to higher interest rates, more active investments of excess cash in income-bearing investments, and from interset earned on excess taxes paid in Israel in prior years.

The increase in interest income for 2023 when compared to 2022 is driven primarily by higher interest rates and from more active investment of excess cash in income-bearing investments.

Taxes on income

The provision for income tax was $118.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 and the effective income tax rate was 42.2%. The difference between the effective income tax rate and the U.S. statutory tax rate is primarily due to adverse impacts of certain recurring items including tax rates in foreign jurisdictions and the relative amounts of income earned in those jurisdictions, unrecognized tax benefits, GILTI inclusion, and valuation allowances. These adverse impacts are partially

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offset by the favorable impact of the Israeli Preferred Technology Enterprise regime. The full rate reconciliation is available in Note 21, Income Taxes.

The provision for income tax was $157.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 and the effective income tax rate was 40.1%. The difference between the effective income tax rate and the U.S. statutory tax rate was primarily due to adverse impacts of certain recurring items such as tax rates in foreign jurisdictions and the relative amounts of income earned in those jurisdictions, unrecognized tax benefits, and GILTI inclusion. These adverse impacts are partially offset by the the favorable impact of the Israeli Preferred Technology Enterprise regime.

The provision for income tax was $85.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2022, and the effective income tax rate was 23.7%. The difference between the effective income tax rate and the U.S. statutory tax rate was primarily due to adverse impacts of certain recurring items such as tax rates in foreign jurisdictions and the relative amounts of income earned in those jurisdictions, unrecognized tax benefits, and GILTI inclusion. These adverse impacts are partially offset by the recurring favorable impact of the Israeli Preferred Technology Enterprises regime. It is also favorably affected by items that are not consistent from year to year. Of these items, the primary differences related to the reversal of a valuation allowance relating to foreign net operating losses and return-to-provision adjustments.

Net income

Upon aggregating the components of our results of operations above, net income for the year ended December 31, 2024 decreased by $72.8 million when compared with 2023. Net income for the year ended December 31, 2023 decreased by $40.3 million when compared to 2022.

Reconciliation of Credit Adjusted EBITDA to net income

Credit Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure and should not be construed as an alternative to net income as an indicator of operating performance, nor as an alternative to cash flow provided by operating activities as a measure of liquidity, or any other performance measure in each case as determined in accordance with GAAP.

Below is a reconciliation of Credit Adjusted EBITDA to net income, the closest GAAP financial measure. Our Credit Agreement defines Adjusted EBITDA (which we call “Credit Adjusted EBITDA”) as net income before (i) interest expense, (ii) interest income, (iii) provision for income taxes, (iv) depreciation and amortization expense, (v) impairment charges, (vi) stock-based compensation, (vii) contingent consideration, (viii) acquisition and related expenses, and (ix) certain other items. We calculate Credit Adjusted EBITDA Margin as Credit Adjusted EBITDA divided by revenues.

Credit Adjusted EBITDA and Credit Adjusted EBITDA Margin as calculated herein may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies within the industry and are not determined in accordance with GAAP. Our presentation of Credit Adjusted EBITDA and Credit Adjusted EBITDA Margin should not be construed as an inference that our future results will be unaffected by unusual or unexpected items.

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__________

(1)    Reflects stock-based compensation expense related to the issuance of equity awards to our employees and Directors.

(2)    Includes costs incurred to evaluate and pursue acquisition activities as well as costs incurred by the Company in connection with the evaluation of strategic alternatives.

(3)    The amount for the year ended December 31, 2024 consists primarily of $14.5 million and $6.9 million incurred by the Company related to severance and restructuring activities, respectively. The amount for the year ended December 31, 2023 consists primarily of $1.8 million incurred by the Company for severance and $1.0 million for a tax assessment paid under protest. The amount for the year ended December 31, 2022 includes $13.2 million incurred by the Company for severance, $4.1 million incurred by the Company for relocation and support provided to employees due to the war in Ukraine and $16.4 million incurred related to the announced restructuring activities.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Capital spending

We incur capital expenditures in the normal course of business and perform ongoing enhancements and updates to our social and mobile games to maintain their quality standards. Cash used for capital expenditures in the normal course of business is typically made available from cash flows generated by operating activities. We may also pursue acquisition opportunities for additional businesses or social or mobile games that meet our strategic and return on investment criteria. Capital needs are evaluated on an individual investment basis and may require significant capital commitments.

Liquidity

Our primary sources of liquidity are the cash flows generated from our operations, currently available unrestricted cash and cash equivalents, short-term highly liquid investments, and borrowings under our Credit Facility and Revolver. Our cash and cash equivalents totaled $565.8 million and $1,029.7 million at December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, we had $600 million in additional borrowing capacity pursuant to our Revolving Credit Facility. Recognizing that our Revolving Credit Facility matures in 2026, we are evaluating our financing alternatives and debt maturities in the near-term. Payments of short-term debt obligations, dividends to shareholders and other commitments are expected to be made from cash on the balance sheet and operating cash flows. Long-term obligations are expected to be paid through operating cash flows, or, if necessary, borrowings under our Revolving Credit facility or, if necessary, additional term loans or issuances of equity.

Our restricted cash totaled $1.9 million and $2.0 million at December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. Restricted cash primarily consists of deposits to secure obligations under our operating lease agreements and to secure

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company-issued credit cards. The classification of restricted cash as current and long-term is dependent upon the intended use of each particular reserve.

In 2024, our Board of Directors elected to declare quarterly cash dividends of $0.10 per share of the Company’s outstanding common stock. We will maintain a focus on financial discipline through a balanced approach of evaluation of M&A opportunities and stockholder dividends while maintaining adequate capital requirements for ongoing operations. The Board will continue to evaluate the economic environment, our cash needs, optimal uses of cash, and other applicable factors, and may elect to make changes to the payment of dividends (if any) in future periods.

Our ability to fund our operations, pay our debt obligations and fund planned capital expenditures depends, in part, upon economic and other factors that are beyond our control, and disruptions in capital markets could impact our ability to secure additional funds through financing activities. We believe that our cash and cash equivalents balance, restricted cash, borrowing capacity under our Revolving Credit Facility and our cash flows from operations will be sufficient to meet our normal operating requirements during the next 12 months and the foreseeable future and to fund capital expenditures.

Cash flows

The following tables present a summary of our cash flows for the periods indicated (in millions):

Operating activities

Net cash flows provided by operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2024 decreased $25.5 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2023. Net cash flows provided by operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 increased $21.9 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2022.

Net cash flow provided by operating activities for each period primarily consisted of net income generated during the period, exclusive of non-cash expenses such as depreciation, amortization and stock-based compensation, and changes in the fair value of contingent consideration payable, with changes in working capital impacted by the payment of annual and incentive bonuses and payment of long-term cash compensation during the first quarter and other normal timing differences.

Investing activities

Net cash flows used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2024 increased $541.9 million when compared to the year ended December 31, 2023 mainly due to $686.9 million of consideration paid (net of cash acquired) for the 2024 acquisition of SuperPlay Ltd.

Net cash flows used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 increased $165.6 million when compared to the year ended December 31, 2022, mainly due to $159.6 million of consideration paid (net of cash acquired) for the 2023 acquisitions of Youda Games and G.S InnPlay Labs Ltd.

Financing activities

Net cash flows used in financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2024, was $167.1 million primarily related to dividends paid, earnout payments related to acquisitions, and repayments on bank borrowings. Net cash flows used in

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financing activities of $18.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 primarily related to repayments on bank borrowings. Net cash flows used in financing activities of $652.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2022, primarily related to the Company’s Tender Offer in October 2022.

Capital resources

On December 10, 2019, we entered into $2,750 million of Credit Facilities, consisting of a $250 million Revolving Credit Facility, and a $2,500 million first lien term loan (the “Old Term Loan”). The Credit Facilities were provided pursuant to the Credit Agreement, dated as of December 10, 2019, by and among Playtika, the lenders party thereto, and UBS AG, Stamford Branch (as successor in interest to Credit Suisse, AG, Cayman Islands Branch), as administrative agent (in such capacity, the "Administrative Agent") and collateral agent (in such capacity, the "Collateral Agent"). Proceeds borrowed under the Credit Facilities on the closing date were used to pay off the outstanding balance on our prior debt facility. On June 15, 2020, we increased the capacity of the Revolving Credit Facility to $350 million. On January 15, 2021, we increased the borrowing capacity of the Revolving Credit Facility from $350 million to $550 million.

On March 11, 2021, the Credit Agreement was amended pursuant to an Incremental Assumption Agreement No. 3 and Second Amendment to Credit Agreement (the “Second Amendment”).

The Second Amendment, among other things, effected a refinancing of Old Term Loan with a new $1.9 billion senior secured first lien term loan borrowed under the Credit Agreement (the “New Term Loan”), increased the Revolving Credit Facility to $600 million and extended the maturity of the Revolving Credit Facility to March 11, 2026. The New Term Loan matures on March 11, 2028 and requires scheduled quarterly principal payments in amounts equal to 0.25% of the original aggregate principal amount of the New Term Loan, with the balance due at maturity.

On June 19, 2023, the Company amended the Credit Agreement pursuant to a Third Amendment to Credit Agreement (the “Third Amendment”). The Third Amendment amended the Credit Agreement to bear interest or incur fees and other amounts denominated in Dollars to be based on the Adjusted Term Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) plus an applicable spread adjustment, rather than the previously permitted Adjusted Eurocurrency Rate, starting in the third quarter of 2023. The amendment did not have an impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements or the effectiveness of the Company’s interest rate swap agreements.

Also on March 11, 2021, we issued $600.0 million aggregate principal amount of our 4.250% senior notes due 2029 (the “Notes”). The Notes mature on March 15, 2029. Interest on the Notes will accrue at a rate of 4.250% per annum. Interest on the Notes is payable semi-annually in cash in arrears on March 15 and September 15 of each year, commencing on September 15, 2021.

Significant terms of the Credit Facilities, the New Term Loan and the Notes, including balances outstanding, interest and fees, mandatory and voluntary prepayment requirements, collateral and guarantors and restrictive covenants are detailed in Note 12, Debt, to the financial statements included elsewhere in this filing.

Critical accounting policies and estimates

We prepare our financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP.

Certain accounting policies require that we apply significant judgment in determining the appropriate assumptions for calculating financial estimates. By their nature, these judgments will be subject to an inherent degree of uncertainty. Our judgments are based upon our management’s historical experience, terms of existing contracts, observance of trends in the industry, information provided by our customers and information available from other outside sources, as appropriate.

We consider accounting estimates to be critical accounting policies when:

•the estimates involve matters that are highly uncertain at the time the accounting estimates are made; and

•different estimates or changes to estimates could have a material impact on the reported financial positions, changes in financial position or results of operations.

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When more than one accounting principle, or method of its application, is generally accepted, we select the principle or method that we consider to be the most appropriate when given the specific circumstances. Application of these accounting principles requires us to make estimates about the future resolution of existing uncertainties. Due to the inherent uncertainty involving estimates, actual results reported in the future may differ from such estimates. For additional information on our significant accounting policies, please refer to Note 1, Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, to the financial statements included elsewhere in this filing.

Business combinations

We apply the provisions of ASC 805, Business Combinations and allocate the fair value of purchase consideration to the tangible assets acquired, liabilities assumed or incurred, and intangible assets acquired based on their estimated fair values. The excess of the fair value of purchase consideration over the fair values of these identifiable assets and liabilities is recorded as goodwill. When determining the fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed or incurred, management makes significant estimates and assumptions, especially with respect to intangible assets.

Significant estimates in valuing certain intangible assets include, but are not limited to, future expected cash flows from acquired technology, acquired trademarks and the acquired user base from a market participant perspective, useful lives and discount rates.

We also apply the provisions of ASU 2021-08, Business Combinations (Topic 805)(“ASU 2021-08”) which requires that we recognize and measure contract assets and contract liabilities acquired in a business combination in accordance with ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ASC 606”) and that at the acquisition date, we account for related revenue contracts in accordance with ASC 606 as if we had originated the contracts.

When business combinations include an earnout payment or contingent consideration that embodies an unconditional obligation for us to transfer assets on a specific agreed-upon date, that liability is measured at estimated fair value as of the acquisition date and as of each reporting date until the obligation is resolved. Significant estimates in valuing such liabilities include, but are not limited to, future financial models and discount rates.

Management’s estimates of fair value are based upon assumptions believed to be reasonable, but which are inherently uncertain and unpredictable and, as a result, actual results may differ from estimates.

Impairment of long-lived assets

Our long-lived assets to be held or used, including right-of-use (“ROU”) assets, and identifiable intangible assets that are subject to amortization are tested for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable, in accordance with ASC 360, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets. We recognize impairment based on the difference between the estimated fair value of the asset and its carrying value. Fair value is generally estimated based on either quoted market prices, if available, or a discounted cash flow analysis.

Upon determination that the carrying value of a long-lived asset may not be recoverable based upon a comparison of aggregate undiscounted projected future cash flows to the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment charge is recorded for the excess of the carrying amount over estimated fair value. There is inherent uncertainty in our forecasts and projections used in any impairment analysis, and different assumptions and estimates could have lead to different impairment test results, and those results could have been materially different.

The preparation of cash flow projections for use in any impairment indicators test or fair value analysis requires management to make critical estimates, judgments and assumptions with regards to estimated future cash flows, as they are, by their nature, subjective and actual results may differ materially from such estimates. Cash flow estimates are unpredictable and inherently uncertain, since they are based on the current regulatory, political and economic climates, recent operating information and projections. Such estimates could be negatively impacted by changes in federal, state or local regulations, economic downturns, competition, events affecting various forms of travel and access to our properties, and other factors. If

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our estimates of future cash flows are not met or if there are changes in significant assumptions and judgments used in the estimation process, we may have to record impairment charges in the future. Further, unless an asset is entirely impaired, future estimates, judgments and assumptions may result in additional impairments in a later period.

Revenue recognition

We primarily derive revenues from the sale of virtual items associated with online games. We distribute our games to the end customer through various web and mobile platforms such as Apple, Facebook, Google, and other web and mobile platforms. Through these platforms, users can download our free-to-play games and can purchase virtual currency which is redeemed in the game for virtual goods, or players can purchase virtual goods directly (collectively referred to as virtual items) to enhance their game-playing experience.

The initial download of the games does not create a contract under ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, or ASC 606; however, the separate election by the player to make an in-application purchase satisfies the ASC 606 criterion for creating a contract.

Players can pay for their virtual item purchases through various widely accepted payment methods offered in the games. Payments from players for virtual items are required at the time of purchase, are non-refundable and relate to non-cancellable contracts that specify our obligations and cannot be redeemed for cash nor exchanged for anything other than virtual items within our games. The purchase price is a fixed amount which reflects the consideration that we expect to be entitled to receive in exchange for use of virtual items by our customers. The platform providers collect proceeds from the game players and remit the proceeds to us after deducting their respective platform fees.

We are primarily responsible for providing the virtual items, have control over the content and functionality of games and have the discretion to establish the virtual items’ prices. Therefore, we are the principal and, accordingly revenues are recorded on a gross basis. Payment processing fees paid to platform providers are recorded within cost of revenue. Our performance obligation is to display the virtual items within the game over the estimated life of the paying player or until the virtual item is consumed in game play based upon the nature of the virtual item.

We categorize our virtual items as either consumable or durable. The substantial majority of our games sell only consumable virtual items. Consumable virtual items represent items that can be consumed by a specific player action and do not provide the player any continuing benefit following consumption. For the sale of consumable virtual items, we recognize revenues as the items are consumed (i.e. over time) which is usually up to one month. We have determined through a review of game play behavior that players generally do not purchase additional virtual currency until their existing virtual currency balances have been substantially consumed. This review, performed on a game-by-game basis, includes an analysis of game players’ historical play behavior, purchase behavior, and the amount of virtual currency outstanding. Based upon this analysis, we have estimated the rate at which virtual currency is consumed during game play within each game. Accordingly, revenues are recognized using a user-based revenue model using these estimated consumption rates. We monitor our analysis of customer play behavior on a quarterly basis.

Durable virtual items represent items that are accessible to the player over an extended period of time. We recognize revenues from the sale of durable virtual items ratably over the estimated average life of the paying player, which is estimated on a game-by-game basis and generally ranges from six months up to twelve months. We estimate the average life of the paying player based on historical paying player patterns and playing behaviors within each of the specific games that offer durable virtual items. We monitor our operational data and player patterns and re-assess our estimates on a quarterly basis.

Deferred revenues, which represent a contract liability, represent mostly unrecognized fees collected for virtual items which are not consumed at the balance sheets date, or for players that are still active in the games.

Sales and other taxes collected from customers on behalf of governmental authorities are accounted for on a net basis and are not included in revenues or operating expenses.

We also have relationships with certain advertising service providers for advertisements within our games and revenues from these advertising providers is generated through impressions, clickthroughs, banner ads and offers. We have determined that

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displaying the advertisements within the mobile games is identified as a single performance obligation. The transaction price in advertising arrangements is established by our advertising service providers and is generally the product of the number of advertising units delivered (e.g. impressions, offers completed, etc.) and the contractually agreed upon price per unit. Revenues from advertisements and offers are recognized at a point-in-time when the advertisements are displayed in the game or the offer has been completed by the user as the customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits provided from these services. We have determined that we are generally acting as an agent in our advertising arrangements as the advertising service providers maintain the relationship with the customers, control the pricing of the advertising such that we do not know the total price paid by the customer to the service providers, and control the advertising product through the time the advertisements are displayed in our games. Therefore, we recognize revenues related to these arrangements on a net basis.

Derivative instruments

Interest rate swap agreements

We use interest rate swap contracts to reduce our exposure to fluctuating interest rates associated with our variable rate debt, and to effectively increase the portion of debt upon which we pay a fixed interest rate. Our interest rate swap agreements are designated as cash flow hedges under ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging (“ASC 815”), involving the receipt of variable amounts from a counterparty in exchange for us making fixed-rate payments over the life of the agreement, without the exchange of the underlying notional amount. These hedges are highly effective in offsetting changes in our future expected cash flows due to the fluctuation of our variable rate debt.

We monitor the effectiveness of our hedges on a quarterly basis, both qualitatively and quantitatively. We performed a regression analysis at inception of the hedging relationship and at period end in which we compared the change in the fair value of the swap transaction and the change in fair value of a hypothetical interest rate swap having terms that identically match the terms of the debt's interest rate payments historical swap rates. We believe that the hedging instruments are expected to be highly effective at offsetting changes in the hedged transactions attributable to the risk being hedged. For each future reporting period, we will continue performing retrospective and prospective assessments of hedge effectiveness in a single regression analysis by updating the regression analysis that was prepared at the inception of the hedging relationship.

Foreign currency hedge agreements

We use foreign currency derivative contracts to reduce our exposure to fluctuating exchange rates between the United States dollar (as our functional currency) and certain expense lines denominated in Euros (“EUR”), Israeli Shekels (“ILS”), Polish Zloty (“PLN”) and Romanian Leu (“RON”). Our derivative contracts are designated as cash flow hedges under ASC 815. We monitor the effectiveness of our hedges on a quarterly basis, both qualitatively and quantitatively, and expect these hedges to remain highly effective at offsetting fluctuations in exchange rates through their respective maturity dates. See Note 14, Derivative Instruments, to the financial statements included elsewhere in this filing for additional discussion.

The fair value of derivative financial instruments is recognized as an asset or liability at each balance sheet date, with changes in fair value recorded in other comprehensive income on the consolidated statements of comprehensive income until the future underlying transactions occur. The fair value approximates the amount we would pay or receive if these contracts were settled at the respective valuation dates. The inputs used to measure the fair value of our interest rate swap agreements and foreign currency derivative contracts are categorized as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy as established by ASC 820, Fair Value Measurement (“ASC 820”). See Note 15, Fair Value Measurements, for additional discussion.

Income taxes

Valuation allowances

We reduce the carrying amounts of deferred tax assets by a valuation allowance if, based on the available evidence, it is more likely than not that such assets will not be realized. Accordingly, the need to establish valuation allowances for deferred tax assets is assessed periodically based on the more likely than not realization threshold. This assessment considers, among other matters, the nature, frequency and severity of current and cumulative losses, forecasts of future profitability, the

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duration of statutory carryforward periods, our experience with operating loss and tax credit carryforwards expiring unused and tax planning alternatives.

Uncertain tax positions

The Company is subject to income taxes in the U.S. and numerous foreign jurisdictions. The evaluation of the Company’s uncertain tax positions involves significant judgment in the interpretation and application of GAAP and complex domestic and international tax laws, and matters related to the allocation of international taxation rights between countries. Although management believes the Company’s reserves are reasonable, no assurance can be given that the final outcome of these uncertainties will not be different from that which is reflected in the Company’s reserves. Reserves are adjusted considering changing facts and circumstances, such as the closing of a tax examination. Resolution of these uncertainties in a manner inconsistent with management’s expectations could have a material impact on the Company’s financial condition and operating results.

Recently issued accounting pronouncements

See Note 1, Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, to the financial statements included elsewhere in this filing for a description of recently adopted accounting pronouncements and recently issued accounting pronouncements not yet adopted as of the date of this filing.

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

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the related notes included elsewhere in this annual report on Form 10-K. This discussion and analysis contains forward-looking statements that involve certain risks and uncertainties. Our actual results could differ materially from those discussed in these statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to these differences include those discussed below and elsewhere in this annual report on Form 10-K, particularly under the “Risk Factors” and “Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” sections.

Overview

We are one of the world’s leading developers of mobile games creating fun, innovative experiences that entertain and engage our users. We have built best-in-class live game operations services and a proprietary technology platform to support our portfolio of games which enable us to drive strong user engagement and monetization. Our games are free-to-play, and we are experts in providing novel, curated in-game content and offers to our users, at optimal points in their game journeys. Our players love our games because they are fun, creative, engaging, and kept fresh through a release of new features that are customized for different player segments.

War in Israel

On October 7, 2023, the State of Israel was attacked by Hamas, and the State of Israel subsequently declared war on Hamas. While this war has not had a direct material financial impact on the Company as of the date of this filing, the Company employs approximately 1,100 professionals in Israel. The Company is actively monitoring the developments in this war.

Key Factors Affecting Our Business

There are a number of factors that affect the performance of our business, and the comparability of our results from period to period, including:

•Conversion of players into paying users and ongoing monetization. While our games are free-to-play, we generate substantially all of our revenues from players’ purchases of in-game virtual items. Our financial performance is dependent, in part, on our ability to convert active players into paying players and sustainably grow user spend over the long term. Our players’ willingness to consistently make in-app purchases is impacted by our ability to deliver engaging content and personalized user experiences.

•Acquisitions of games and new technology. We have grown and expect to continue to grow our business by acquiring games and game studios that we believe can benefit from our live operations services, our Playtika Boost Platform, our design experience, and our scale. When we acquire games and studios, we focus on providing existing audiences with proven content and applying our live operations to create a better game experience for users. We also seek to make acquisitions in technology that enhance our marketing, artificial intelligence and research and development capabilities.

•Offering of new games and release of new content, offers, and features. Our key revenue drivers include improving the content, offers, and features in our existing games and the acquisition of new games. In order to enhance the content, offers, and features in our existing games and to develop or acquire new games, we must invest a significant amount of our technological and creative resources, ensuring that we support an effective cadence of novel content creation that drives conversion and continued monetization. These expenditures generally occur months in advance of the release of new content or the launch or acquisition of a new game.

•User acquisition. We believe that we will be able to continue to grow our user base, including through traditional marketing and advertising, informal marketing campaigns, and cross-promoting between our games, including new games we develop or acquire. We intend to continue to seek new opportunities to enhance and refine these

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marketing efforts to acquire new users, including identifying potential technologies to enhance our marketing and advertising capabilities.

Components of our Results of Operations

Revenues

We primarily derive revenue from the sale of virtual items associated with online games.

We distribute our games to the end customer through various web and mobile platforms, such as Apple, Facebook, Google and other web and mobile platforms plus our own Direct-to-Consumer platforms. Through these platforms, users can download our free-to-play games and can purchase virtual items to enhance their game-playing experience. Players can purchase virtual items through various widely accepted payment methods offered in the games. Payments from players for virtual items are non-refundable and relate to non-cancellable contracts that specify our obligations and cannot be redeemed for cash nor exchanged for anything other than virtual items within our games.

Our games are played on various third-party platforms for which the platform providers collect proceeds from our customers and pay us an amount after deducting platform fees. For purchases made through both the third-party and Direct-to-Consumer platforms, we are primarily responsible for fulfilling the virtual items, have the control over the content and functionality of games and have the discretion to establish the virtual items’ prices. Therefore, we are the principal and, accordingly revenues are recorded on a gross basis. Payment processing fees paid to platform providers are recorded within cost of revenue.

Cost of revenue

Cost of revenue includes payment processing fees, customer support, hosting fees and depreciation and amortization expenses associated with assets directly involved in the generation of revenues, including servers and internal use software. Platform providers (such as Apple, Facebook and Google) charge a transactional payment processing fee to accept payments from our players for the purchase of in-app virtual goods. Payment processing fees and other related expenses for in-app purchases made through our Direct-to-Consumer platforms are typically 3-4%, compared to a 30% platform fee for third party platforms. We generally expect cost of revenue to fluctuate proportionately with revenues.

Research and development

Research and development consists of salaries, bonuses, benefits, other compensation, including stock-based compensation and allocated overhead, related to engineering, research, and development. In addition, research and development expenses include depreciation and amortization expenses associated with assets associated with our research and development efforts. We expect that research and development expenses specifically associated with new game development will fluctuate over time.

Sales and marketing

Sales and marketing consists of costs related to advertising and user acquisition, including costs related to salaries, bonuses, benefits, and other compensation, including stock-based compensation and allocated overhead. In addition, sales and marketing expenses include depreciation and amortization expenses associated with assets related to our sales and marketing efforts. We plan to continue to invest in sales and marketing to retain and acquire users. However, sales and marketing expenses may fluctuate as a percentage of revenues depending on the timing and efficiency of our marketing efforts.

General and administrative

General and administrative expenses consist of salaries, bonuses, benefits, and other compensation, including stock-based compensation, for all our corporate support functional areas, including our senior leadership. In addition, general and administrative expenses include outsourced professional services such as consulting, legal and accounting services, taxes and dues, insurance premiums, and costs associated with maintaining our property and infrastructure. General and administrative expenses also include depreciation and amortization expenses associated with assets not directly attributable to any of the

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expense categories above. We also record adjustments to contingent consideration payable recorded after the acquisition date, and legal settlement expenses, as components of general and administrative expense.

Impairment of intangible assets

Our impairment of intangible assets represents charges recorded for the excess of the carrying amount over estimated fair value of our identifiable intangible assets. This occurs when it is determined the carrying value of a long-lived asset may not be recoverable based upon a comparison of aggregate undiscounted projected future cash flows to the carrying amount of the asset.

Interest expense and other, net

Our interest expense includes interest incurred under our December 2019 Credit Agreement and amortization of deferred financing costs. We expect to continue to incur interest expense under our Credit Agreement, although such interest expense will fluctuate based upon the underlying variable interest rates. We entered into multiple interest rate swap agreements in March 2021 and in January 2023, accumulating to a total notional value of $1.0 billion, reducing our overall exposure to variable interest rates.

Interest income consists of interest earned on cash and cash equivalents.

Foreign currency translation adjustments, net, include gains and losses resulting from remeasurement of certain non-USD denominated balance sheet times.

Provision for income taxes

The provision for income taxes consists of current income taxes in the various jurisdictions where we are subject to taxation, primarily the United States, the United Kingdom, Israel, Germany, and Austria, as well as deferred income taxes reflecting the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in each of these jurisdictions for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. Under current U.S. tax law, the federal statutory tax rate applicable to corporations is 21%. Our effective tax rate can fluctuate based on various factors, including our financial results and the geographic mix to which they relate, the applicability of special tax regimes, changes in our business or operations, examination-related developments and uncertain tax positions, and changes in tax law.

Net Income

We calculate net income as revenue minus cost of revenues, research and development, sales and marketing, general and administrative expenses, interest and taxes.

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Results of Operations

The tables below show the results of our key financial and operating metrics for the periods indicated.

We measure the performance of our business by using several key financial metrics, including revenue and operating income, and operating metrics, including Daily Active Users, Average Revenue per Daily Active User, Paying Users, and Average Revenue per Paying User. These operating metrics help our management to understand and measure the engagement levels of the Company’s players, the size of its audience and its reach. See “Basis of Presentation” and “Summary Consolidated Financial and Other Data” for additional information of these measures.

Comparison of the year ended December 31, 2023 versus the year ended December 31, 2022

Revenues

Revenues for the year ended December 31, 2023 decreased by $48.5 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2022. Our acquisition of the Youda Games’ card game portfolio and InnPlay Labs contributed to revenues for the year ended December 31, 2023, without which the year-over-year decrease in our revenues would have been greater. Revenue growth from our casual games were unable to offset the revenue declines coming from our social casino-themed

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games. The increase in revenues generated from Direct-to-Consumer platforms as a percentage of total revenues resulted from marketing activities for the games offered through these platforms.

Cost of revenue

Cost of revenue for the year ended December 31, 2023 decreased by $17.2 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2022. The decrease in cost of revenue includes an approximate $16.8 million decrease in platform fees associated with reduced revenues and a greater percentage of revenue generated from our Direct-to-Consumer platforms, as well as a $3.3 million decrease in depreciation and amortization expenses. Offsetting the decrease is an increase in server hosting costs due to higher fees and the acquisitions of Youda and InnPlay.

Research and development expenses

Research and development expenses for the year ended December 31, 2023 decreased by $65.9 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2022. Research and development expenses were primarily impacted by an approximate $58 million decrease in headcount and associated payroll costs in our existing research and development operations, as well as costs incurred in connection with severance and retention payments incurred in 2022 with no corresponding expense in 2023. In addition, research and development related outsourcing costs decreased from 2022 to 2023 due to a reduction in the number of ongoing projects.

Sales and marketing expenses

Sales and marketing expenses for the year ended December 31, 2023 decreased by $18.0 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2022. The decrease in sales and marketing expenses was primarily related to decreased offline media expenses, depreciation and amortization expense, and decreased headcount and lower associated payroll costs.

General and administrative expenses

General and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2023 decreased by $28.9 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2022. Included in general and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2022, with no comparable amounts for the year ended December 31, 2023, are $7.5 million of costs related to the acquisition of Reworks and to certain office closures, and reversals of $14.1 million of contingent consideration expense related to the JustPlay and Reworks acquisitions. General and administrative expenses for the year December 31, 2023 include a $1.0 million tax assessment paid under protest. Further, the Company incurred $6.6 million and $24.7 million in costs related to strategic alternatives, for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Adjusting for these items, the remaining decrease of general and administrative expenses of approximately $19.8 million is primarily due to decreased compensation costs and, to a lesser degree, a decrease in costs associated with relocation and support provided to employees due to the war in Ukraine.

Impairment of intangible assets

During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company recorded an impairment charge of $41.6 million related to the Redecor game title based upon lower than expected performance of that title based upon lower than expected performance of that title. The Company has recently released certain changes to the game operations and mechanics in an effort to improve the performance of this title. Given the recent nature of the game updates, it is too early to determine if such changes will have a positive impact on the game. To the extent these recent changes to the game do not boost the performance of the Redecor title, the remaining balance of the Redecor game title of approximately $41 million may be impaired in future periods.

Also included in the year ended December 31, 2023 is a $9.7 million write-off of JustPlay.LOL Ltd’s game title.

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Comparison of the year ended December 31, 2022 versus the year ended December 31, 2021

Revenues

Revenues for the year ended December 31, 2022 increased by $32.5 million when compared to the year ended December 31, 2021. This year-over-year comparison includes incremental revenues of $34.3 million generated from the Company’s August 2021 acquisition Reworks. Absent this acquisition, revenues in 2022 declined when compared with 2021 as improved monetization and increased revenues from new content and product features across our broader portfolio of games were unable to offset the incremental revenues recognized in 2022 due to the Covid pandemic. The combination of unusually high DAUs in early 2021, combined with the continued focus of the Company’s marketing efforts on player conversion rather than increasing player traffic lead to a decrease in DAUs for 2022 when compared with 2021. The same focus on player conversion, combined with improvements to monetization, new content and new product features drove an increase in DPUs in 2022 compared to 2021. The increase in revenues generated from Direct-to-Consumer platforms as a percentage of total revenues resulted from marketing activities for the games offered through these platforms.

Cost of revenue

Cost of revenue for the year ended December 31, 2022 increased by $6.7 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2021. The increase in cost of revenue includes approximately $10.0 million in incremental platform fees associated with the August 2021 acquisition of Reworks. Absent this acquisition, cost of revenues for 2022 would have declined when compared to 2021, primarily as a result of the increase in revenues generated through our Direct-to-Consumer platforms, partially offset by increased depreciation and amortization expenses.

Research and development expenses

Research and development expenses for the year ended December 31, 2022 increased by $85.6 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2021. Research and development expenses were adversely impacted by increased headcount and associated payroll costs in our existing research and development operations, including costs incurred in connection with severance payments incurred during the fourth quarter 2022 in connection with our workforce reduction. In addition, stock-based compensation costs, net of amounts capitalized, included in research and development expenses increased by $15.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2022 when compared with the year ended December 31, 2021.

Sales and marketing expenses

Sales and marketing expenses for the year ended December 31, 2022 increased by $22.0 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2021. The increase in sales and marketing expenses was primarily related to increased amortization expense, increased media buy expenses, increased stock-based compensation costs, and increased headcount and higher associated payroll costs.

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General and administrative expenses

General and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2022 increased by $9.0 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2021. General and administrative expenses includes stock-based compensation expenses of $69.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2022, compared with $64.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2021. Included in general and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2021, with no comparable amount for the year ended December 31, 2022, are bonus expenses of approximately $35.4 million paid as a result of the successful initial public offering of the Company’s stock in January 2021. Adjusting for these items, general and administrative expenses increased by approximately $39.3 million, primarily due to increased compensation costs associated with the long-term incentive plan and costs associated with exploring strategic alternatives, which were partially offset by reduced expense attributable to adjusting contingent consideration to fair value.

Other Factors Affecting Net Income

Interest expense

Interest expense in 2023, 2022 and 2021 is primarily related to amounts borrowed under the December 2019 Credit Facilities.

The increase in interest expense in 2023 when compared with 2022 is primarily related to higher average interest rates. The decrease in interest expense in 2022 when compared with 2021 is driven primarily by the refinancing of our Term Loan with a new facility bearing a lower interest rate spread.

On March 11, 2021, the Company amended the Credit Agreement which, among other things, effected a refinancing of the Old Term Loan with a new $1.9 billion senior secured first lien term loan borrowed under the Credit Agreement. Also on March 11, 2021, the Company issued $600.0 million aggregate principal amount of its 4.250% senior notes due 2029 under an indenture, dated March 11, 2021. The combination of these two March 2021 transactions significantly reduced our average interest rates on our outstanding indebtedness.

Interest income

Interest income in 2023, 2022 and 2021 is primarily related to interest earned on cash, cash equivalents and short term bank deposits.

The increase in interest income in 2023 when compared with previous years is driven primarily by higher interest rates and from more active investment of excess cash in income-bearing investments.

Taxes on income

The provision for income tax was $157.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 and the effective income tax rate was 40.1%. The difference between the effective income tax rate and the U.S. statutory tax rate is primarily due to adverse impacts of certain recurring items including tax rates in foreign jurisdictions and the relative amounts of income earned in those jurisdictions, unrecognized tax benefits, and GILTI inclusion. These adverse impacts are partially offset by the favorable impact of the Israeli Preferred Technology Enterprise regime. The full rate reconciliation is available in Note 21, Income Taxes.

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The provision for income tax was $85.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2022 and the effective income tax rate was 23.7%. The difference between the effective income tax rate and the U.S. statutory tax rate was primarily due to adverse impacts of certain recurring items such as tax rates in foreign jurisdictions and the relative amounts of income earned in those jurisdictions, unrecognized tax benefits, and GILTI inclusion. These adverse impacts are partially offset by the recurring favorable impact of the Israeli Preferred Technology Enterprises regime. It is also favorably affected by items that are not consistent from year to year. Of these items, the primary differences related to the reversal of a valuation allowance relating to foreign net operating losses and return-to-provision adjustments.

The provision for income tax was $99.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2021, and the effective income tax rate was 24.5%. The difference between the effective income tax rate and the U.S. statutory tax rate was primarily due to adverse impacts of certain recurring items such as tax rates in foreign jurisdictions and the relative amounts of income earned in those jurisdictions, unrecognized tax benefits, and GILTI inclusion. These adverse impacts are partially offset by the recurring favorable impact of the Israeli Preferred Technology Enterprises regime. It is also favorably affected by items that are not consistent from year to year. Of these items, the primary difference related to the reversal of deferred tax liabilities due to the change in reinvestment assertion related to undistributed earnings of certain of our non-U.S. subsidiaries during the year.

Net income

Upon aggregating all of the components of our results of operations above, net income for the year ended December 31, 2023 decreased by $40.3 million when compared with 2022. Net income for the year ended December 31, 2022 decreased by $33.2 million when compared to 2021.

Reconciliation of Credit Adjusted EBITDA to net income

Credit Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure and should not be construed as an alternative to net income as an indicator of operating performance, nor as an alternative to cash flow provided by operating activities as a measure of liquidity, or any other performance measure in each case as determined in accordance with GAAP.

Below is a reconciliation of Credit Adjusted EBITDA to net income, the closest GAAP financial measure. Our Credit Agreement defines Adjusted EBITDA (which we call “Credit Adjusted EBITDA”) as net income before (i) interest expense, (ii) interest income, (iii) provision for income taxes, (iv) depreciation and amortization expense, (v) impairment of intangible assets, (vi) stock-based compensation, (vii) contingent consideration, (viii) acquisition and related expenses, and (ix) certain other items. We calculate Credit Adjusted EBITDA Margin as Credit Adjusted EBITDA divided by revenues.

Credit Adjusted EBITDA and Credit Adjusted EBITDA Margin as calculated herein may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies within the industry and are not determined in accordance with GAAP. Our presentation of Credit Adjusted EBITDA and Credit Adjusted EBITDA Margin should not be construed as an inference that our future results will be unaffected by unusual or unexpected items.

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__________

(1)    Reflects, for all years, stock-based compensation expense related to the issuance of equity awards to our employees.

(2)    The amounts for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 primarily relate to expenses incurred by the Company in connection with the evaluation of strategic alternatives for the Company. The amount for the year ended December 31, 2021 primarily relates to bonus expenses paid as a result of the successful initial public offering of the Company’s stock in January 2021.

(3)    The amount for the year ended December 31, 2023 consists primarily of $1.8 million incurred by the Company for severance and $1.0 million for tax assessment paid under protest. The amount for the year ended December 31, 2022 consists of $13.2 million incurred by the Company for severance, $4.1 million incurred by the Company for relocation and support provided to employees due to the war in Ukraine and $16.4 million incurred related to the announced restructuring activities. The amount for the year ended December 31, 2021 includes business optimization expenses.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Capital spending

We incur capital expenditures in the normal course of business and perform ongoing enhancements and updates to our social and mobile games to maintain their quality standards. Cash used for capital expenditures in the normal course of business is typically made available from cash flows generated by operating activities. We may also pursue acquisition opportunities for additional businesses or social or mobile games that meet our strategic and return on investment criteria. Capital needs are evaluated on an individual investment basis and may require significant capital commitments.

Liquidity

Our primary sources of liquidity are the cash flows generated from our operations, currently available unrestricted cash and cash equivalents, short-term highly liquid investments, and borrowings under our Credit Facility and Revolver. Our cash and cash equivalents totaled $1,029.7 million and $768.7 million at December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, we had $600 million in additional borrowing capacity pursuant to our Revolving Credit Facility. Payments of short-term debt obligations, dividends to shareholders and other commitments are expected to be made from cash on the balance sheet and operating cash flows. Long-term obligations are expected to be paid through operating cash flows, or, if necessary, borrowings under our Revolving Credit facility or, if necessary, additional term loans or issuances of equity.

Our restricted cash totaled $2.0 million and $1.7 million at December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively. Restricted cash primarily consists of deposits to secure obligations under our operating lease agreements and to secure

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company-issued credit cards. The classification of restricted cash as current and long-term is dependent upon the intended use of each particular reserve.

In February 2024, our Board of Directors elected to declare a cash dividend of $0.10 per share of the Company’s outstanding common stock. We will maintain a focus on financial discipline through a balanced approach of evaluation of M&A opportunities and stockholder dividends while maintaining adequate capital requirements for ongoing operations. The Board will continue to evaluate the economic environment, our cash needs, optimal uses of cash, and other applicable factors, and may elect to make additional changes to dividends (if any) in future periods.

Our ability to fund our operations, pay our debt obligations and fund planned capital expenditures depends, in part, upon economic and other factors that are beyond our control, and disruptions in capital markets could impact our ability to secure additional funds through financing activities. We believe that our cash and cash equivalents balance, restricted cash, borrowing capacity under our Revolving Credit Facility and our cash flows from operations will be sufficient to meet our normal operating requirements during the next 12 months and the foreseeable future and to fund capital expenditures.

Cash flows

The following tables present a summary of our cash flows for the periods indicated (in millions):

Operating activities

Net cash flows provided by operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 increased $21.9 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2022. Net cash flows provided by operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2022 decreased $58.0 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2021.

Net cash flow provided by operating activities for each period primarily consisted of net income generated during the period, exclusive of non-cash expenses such as depreciation, amortization and stock-based compensation, with changes in working capital impacted by normal timing differences.

Investing activities

Net cash flows used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 increased $165.6 million when compared to the year ended December 31, 2022 mainly due to $159.6 million of consideration paid (net of cash acquired) for the 2023 acquisitions of Youda Games and G.S InnPlay Labs Ltd.

Net cash flows used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2022 decreased $534.8 million when compared to the year ended December 31, 2021, mainly due to $394.1 million of consideration paid (net of cash acquired) for the 2021 acquisition of Reworks and $100.0 million used for investment in short-term bank deposits in 2021, offset by $100.1 million of proceeds from short-term bank deposits in 2022.

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Financing activities

Net cash flows used in financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2023, was $18.2 million primarily related to repayments on bank borrowings. Net cash flows used in financing activities of $652.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2022 primarily related to the Company’s Tender Offer in October 2022. Net cash flows provided by financing activities of $559.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2021, primarily related to the Company’s initial public offering of its equity in January 2021, and the refinancing of its Old Term Loan (as defined below) in March 2021.

Capital resources

On December 10, 2019, we entered into $2,750 million of senior secured credit facilities (the “Credit Facilities”), consisting of a $250 million revolving credit facility (the “Revolving Credit Facility”), and a $2,500 million first lien term loan (the “Old Term Loan”). The Credit Facilities were provided pursuant to the Credit Agreement, dated as of December 10, 2019, by and among Playtika, the lenders party thereto, and Credit Suisse, AG, Cayman Islands Branch, as administrative agent (in such capacity, the "Administrative Agent") and collateral agent (in such capacity, the "Collateral Agent"). Proceeds borrowed under the Credit Facilities on the closing date were used to pay off the outstanding balance on our prior debt facility. On June 15, 2020, we increased the capacity of the Revolving Credit Facility to $350 million. On January 15, 2021, we increased the borrowing capacity of the Revolving Credit Facility from $350 million to $550 million.

On March 11, 2021, the Credit Agreement was amended pursuant to an Incremental Assumption Agreement No. 3 and Second Amendment to Credit Agreement (the “Second Amendment”).

The Second Amendment, among other things, effected a refinancing of Old Term Loan with a new $1.9 billion senior secured first lien term loan borrowed under the Credit Agreement (the “New Term Loan”), increased the Revolving Credit Facility to $600 million and extended the maturity of the Revolving Credit Facility to March 11, 2026. The New Term Loan matures on March 11, 2028 and requires scheduled quarterly principal payments in amounts equal to 0.25% of the original aggregate principal amount of the New Term Loan, with the balance due at maturity.

On June 19, 2023, the Company amended the Credit Agreement pursuant to a Third Amendment to Credit Agreement (the “Third Amendment”). The Third Amendment amended the Credit Agreement to bear interest or incur fees and other amounts denominated in Dollars to be based on the Adjusted Term Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) plus an applicable spread adjustment, rather than the previously permitted Adjusted Eurocurrency Rate, starting in the third quarter of 2023. The amendment did not have an impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements or the effectiveness of the Company’s interest rate swap agreements.

Also on March 11, 2021, we issued $600.0 million aggregate principal amount of our 4.250% senior notes due 2029 (the “Notes”). The Notes mature on March 15, 2029. Interest on the Notes will accrue at a rate of 4.250% per annum. Interest on the Notes is payable semi-annually in cash in arrears on March 15 and September 15 of each year, commencing on September 15, 2021.

Significant terms of the Credit Facilities, the New Term Loan and the Notes, including balances outstanding, interest and fees, mandatory and voluntary prepayment requirements, collateral and guarantors and restrictive covenants are detailed in Note 12, Debt, to the financial statements included elsewhere in this filing.

Critical accounting policies and estimates

We prepare our financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP.

Certain accounting policies require that we apply significant judgment in determining the appropriate assumptions for calculating financial estimates. By their nature, these judgments will be subject to an inherent degree of uncertainty. Our judgments are based upon our management’s historical experience, terms of existing contracts, observance of trends in the industry, information provided by our customers and information available from other outside sources, as appropriate.

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We consider accounting estimates to be critical accounting policies when:

•the estimates involve matters that are highly uncertain at the time the accounting estimates are made; and

•different estimates or changes to estimates could have a material impact on the reported financial positions, changes in financial position or results of operations.

When more than one accounting principle, or method of its application, is generally accepted, we select the principle or method that we consider to be the most appropriate when given the specific circumstances. Application of these accounting principles requires us to make estimates about the future resolution of existing uncertainties. Due to the inherent uncertainty involving estimates, actual results reported in the future may differ from such estimates. For additional information on our significant accounting policies, please refer to Note 1, Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, to the financial statements included elsewhere in this filing.

Business combinations

We apply the provisions of ASC 805, Business Combinations and allocate the fair value of purchase consideration to the tangible assets acquired, liabilities assumed, and intangible assets acquired based on their estimated fair values. The excess of the fair value of purchase consideration over the fair values of these identifiable assets and liabilities is recorded as goodwill. When determining the fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed, management makes significant estimates and assumptions, especially with respect to intangible assets.

Significant estimates in valuing certain intangible assets include, but are not limited to, future expected cash flows from acquired technology, acquired trademarks and the acquired user base from a market participant perspective, useful lives and discount rates. Management’s estimates of fair value are based upon assumptions believed to be reasonable, but which are inherently uncertain and unpredictable and, as a result, actual results may differ from estimates.

We also apply the provisions of ASU 2021-08, Business Combinations (Topic 805)(“ASU 2021-08)” which requires that we recognize and measure contract assets and contract liabilities acquired in a business combination in accordance with ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ASC 606”) and that at the acquisition date, we account for related revenue contracts in accordance with ASC 606 as if we had originated the contracts.

When business combinations include an earnout payment or contingent consideration that embodies an unconditional obligation for us to transfer assets on a specific agreed-upon date, that liability is measured at fair value as of the acquisition date and as of each reporting date until the obligation is resolved. Significant estimates in valuing such liabilities include, but are not limited to, future financial models and discount rates. Management’s estimates of fair value are based upon assumptions believed to be reasonable, but which are inherently uncertain and unpredictable and, as a result, actual results may differ from estimates.

Software development costs

We review internal use software development costs associated with infrastructure and new games or updates to existing games to determine if the costs qualify for capitalizing. The development costs incurred during the application development stage that are related to infrastructure are capitalized. Internal use software is included in intangible assets other than goodwill, net in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Capitalization of such costs begins when the preliminary project stage is completed and ceases at the point in which the project is substantially complete and is ready for its intended purpose. With respect to new games or updates to existing games, the preliminary project stage remains ongoing until just prior to worldwide launch. The development costs related to new games or updates to existing games are expensed as incurred to research and development in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.

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Goodwill

The purchase price of an acquisition is allocated to the underlying assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon their estimated fair values at the date of acquisition. We determine the estimated fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed after review and consideration of relevant information including discounted cash flows, quoted market prices, and estimates made by management. To the extent the purchase price exceeds the fair value of the net identifiable tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed, such excess is recorded as goodwill. Under ASC 350, Intangible—Goodwill and Other, goodwill is not amortized, but rather is subject to an annual impairment test.

We test goodwill for impairment as of October 1st of each year, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that this asset may be impaired. For the purposes of impairment testing, we have determined that we have one reporting unit. When performing the annual goodwill impairment testing, we either conduct a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is more likely than not that the asset is impaired, or we elect to bypass this qualitative assessment and perform a quantitative test for impairment.

Under the qualitative assessment, we consider both positive and negative factors, including macroeconomic conditions, industry events, financial performance and other changes, and makes a determination of whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of goodwill is less than its carrying amount. If, after assessing the qualitative factors, we determine it is more likely than not the asset is impaired, we then perform a quantitative test in which the estimated fair value of the reporting unit is compared with its carrying amount, including goodwill. If, after assessing the qualitative factors, we determine that it is not more likely than not the asset is impaired, goodwill is considered not to be impaired and no additional steps are necessary.

If a quantitative analysis is necessary, we compare the fair value of our reporting unit to our carrying value. We determine the estimated fair value based on a combination of market multiples and estimated future cash flows discounted at rates commensurate with the capital structure and cost of capital of comparable market participants, giving appropriate consideration to the prevailing borrowing rates within the industry in general. Market multiples and discounted cash flows are common measures used to value businesses in our industry.

If the estimated fair value exceeds carrying value, goodwill is considered not to be impaired. However, if the carrying amount exceeds estimated fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to the excess.

The annual evaluation of goodwill requires the use of estimates about future operating results, valuation multiples, and discount rates to determine its fair value. Changes in these assumptions can materially affect these estimates. Thus, to the extent our profitability deteriorates in the near future, discount rates increase significantly, or we do not meet our projected performance, we could have impairments to record in the next twelve months, and such impairments could be material.

Impairment of long-lived assets

Our long-lived assets to be held or used, including right-of-use (“ROU”) assets, and identifiable intangible assets that are subject to amortization are tested for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable, in accordance with ASC 360, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets. We recognize impairment based on the difference between the estimated fair value of the asset and its carrying value. Fair value is generally estimated based on either quoted market prices, if available, or a discounted cash flow analysis.

Upon determination that the carrying value of a long-lived asset may not be recoverable based upon a comparison of aggregate undiscounted projected future cash flows to the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment charge is recorded for the excess of the carrying amount over estimated fair value. There is inherent uncertainty in our forecasts and projections used in any impairment analysis, and different assumptions and estimates could have lead to different impairment test results, and those results could have been materially different.

The preparation of cash flow projections for use in any impairment indicators test or fair value analysis requires management to make critical estimates, judgments and assumptions with regards to estimated future cash flows, as they are, by their

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nature, subjective and actual results may differ materially from such estimates. Cash flow estimates are unpredictable and inherently uncertain, since they are based on the current regulatory, political and economic climates, recent operating information and projections. Such estimates could be negatively impacted by changes in federal, state or local regulations, economic downturns, competition, events affecting various forms of travel and access to our properties, and other factors. If our estimates of future cash flows are not met or if there are changes in significant assumptions and judgments used in the estimation process, we may have to record impairment charges in the future.

Revenue recognition

We primarily derive revenues from the sale of virtual items associated with online games. We distribute our games to the end customer through various web and mobile platforms such as Apple, Facebook, Google, and other web and mobile platforms. Through these platforms, users can download our free-to-play games and can purchase virtual currency which is redeemed in the game for virtual goods, or players can purchase virtual goods directly (collectively referred to as virtual items) to enhance their game-playing experience.

The initial download of the games does not create a contract under ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, or ASC 606; however, the separate election by the player to make an in-application purchase satisfies the ASC 606 criterion for creating a contract.

Players can pay for their virtual item purchases through various widely accepted payment methods offered in the games. Payments from players for virtual items are required at the time of purchase, are non-refundable and relate to non-cancellable contracts that specify our obligations and cannot be redeemed for cash nor exchanged for anything other than virtual items within our games. The purchase price is a fixed amount which reflects the consideration that we expect to be entitled to receive in exchange for use of virtual items by our customers. The platform providers collect proceeds from the game players and remit the proceeds to us after deducting their respective platform fees.

We are primarily responsible for providing the virtual items, have control over the content and functionality of games and have the discretion to establish the virtual items’ prices. Therefore, we are the principal and, accordingly revenues are recorded on a gross basis. Payment processing fees paid to platform providers are recorded within cost of revenue. Our performance obligation is to display the virtual items within the game over the estimated life of the paying player or until the virtual item is consumed in game play based upon the nature of the virtual item.

We categorize our virtual items as either consumable or durable. The substantial majority of our games sell only consumable virtual items. Consumable virtual items represent items that can be consumed by a specific player action and do not provide the player any continuing benefit following consumption. For the sale of consumable virtual items, we recognize revenues as the items are consumed (i.e. over time) which is usually up to one month. We have determined through a review of game play behavior that players generally do not purchase additional virtual currency until their existing virtual currency balances have been substantially consumed. This review, performed on a game-by-game basis, includes an analysis of game players’ historical play behavior, purchase behavior, and the amount of virtual currency outstanding. Based upon this analysis, we have estimated the rate at which virtual currency is consumed during game play within each game. Accordingly, revenues are recognized using a user-based revenue model using these estimated consumption rates. We monitor our analysis of customer play behavior on a quarterly basis.

Durable virtual items represent items that are accessible to the player over an extended period of time. We recognize revenues from the sale of durable virtual items ratably over the estimated average life of the paying player, which is estimated on a game-by-game basis and generally ranges from eight months up to fourteen months. We estimate the average life of the paying player based on historical paying player patterns and playing behaviors within each of the specific games that offer durable virtual items. We monitor our operational data and player patterns and re-assess our estimates on a quarterly basis.

Deferred revenues, which represent a contract liability, represent mostly unrecognized fees collected for virtual items which are not consumed at the balance sheets date, or for players that are still active in the games.

Sales and other taxes collected from customers on behalf of governmental authorities are accounted for on a net basis and are not included in revenues or operating expenses.

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We also have relationships with certain advertising service providers for advertisements within our games and revenues from these advertising providers is generated through impressions, clickthroughs, banner ads and offers. We have determined that displaying the advertisements within the mobile games is identified as a single performance obligation. The transaction price in advertising arrangements is established by our advertising service providers and is generally the product of the number of advertising units delivered (e.g. impressions, offers completed, etc.) and the contractually agreed upon price per unit. Revenues from advertisements and offers are recognized at a point-in-time when the advertisements are displayed in the game or the offer has been completed by the user as the customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits provided from these services. We have determined that we are generally acting as an agent in our advertising arrangements as the advertising service providers maintain the relationship with the customers, control the pricing of the advertising such that we do not know the total price paid by the customer to the service providers, and control the advertising product through the time the advertisements are displayed in our games. Therefore, we recognize revenues related to these arrangements on a net basis.

Stock-based compensation expense

We have a stock-based compensation program which provides for equity awards including time-based stock options, restricted stock units (“RSUs”) and performance stock units (“PSUs”). Stock-based compensation expense is measured at the grant date based on the estimated fair value of the award, and is recognized as expense on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for options and RSUs and on an accelerated basis for PSUs. The Company records forfeitures as a reduction of stock-based compensation expense as those forfeitures occur.

We used the Black-Scholes option pricing model to estimate the fair value and compensation cost associated with stock options. As we do not have a long history of market prices for our common stock because our stock was not publicly traded prior to January 2021, we used observable data for a group of peer companies that grant options with substantially similar terms to assist in developing our volatility assumptions. The expected volatility of the stock was determined using weighted average measures of the implied volatility and the historical volatility for our peer group of companies for a period equal to the expected life of the options. The weighted-average risk-free interest rates were based on the interest rate for U.S. Treasury bonds. The expected term assumptions were derived using the simplified method, which is based on an average between each vesting date and the expiration date of an option. This method was chosen because there was no historical option exercise experience due to us being privately held. The fair value of options granted prior to February 2024 was determined based upon the assumption that we would not pay cash dividends on shares of our common stock. Option grants subsequent to February 2024 will use an appropriate dividend yield in our calculation of estimated fair value. The stock options have a contractual term of 10 years. Except as otherwise provided in an agreement between us and the employee, if an employee is terminated (voluntarily or involuntarily), any unvested awards as of the date of termination will be forfeited.

If factors change and we employ different assumptions, stock-based compensation cost on future awards may differ significantly from what we have recorded in the past. Higher volatility and longer expected terms result in an increase to stock-based compensation determined at the date of grant. Future stock-based compensation cost and unrecognized stock-based compensation will increase to the extent that we grant additional equity awards to employees or assume unvested equity awards in connection with acquisitions. If there are any modifications or cancellations of the underlying unvested equity awards, we may be required to accelerate any remaining unearned stock-based compensation cost or incur incremental cost.

We use the associated per-share value at the time of grant to determine the compensation cost to be recognized associated with RSUs and PSUs granted. For PSUs, we periodically review the estimates of performance against the defined criteria to assess the expected payout of each outstanding grant and adjust the stock compensation expense accordingly.

For RSUs, shares are issued on the vesting dates net of the applicable statutory income tax withholding to be paid by us on behalf of our employees. As a result, fewer shares are generally issued than the number of RSUs outstanding, and the income tax withholding is recorded as a reduction to additional paid-in capital.

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Our stock-based compensation expense is recorded in the financial statement line items relevant to each of the award recipients. See Note 13, Equity Transactions and Stock Incentive Plan, to the financial statements included elsewhere in this filing for additional discussion.

Derivative instruments

Interest rate swap agreements

We use interest rate swap contracts to reduce our exposure to fluctuating interest rates associated with our variable rate debt, and to effectively increase the portion of debt upon which we pay a fixed interest rate. Our interest rate swap agreements are designated as cash flow hedges under ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging (“ASC 815”), involving the receipt of variable amounts from a counterparty in exchange for us making fixed-rate payments over the life of the agreement, without the exchange of the underlying notional amount. These hedges are highly effective in offsetting changes in our future expected cash flows due to the fluctuation of our variable rate debt.

We monitor the effectiveness of our hedges on a quarterly basis, both qualitatively and quantitatively. We performed a regression analysis at the inception of the hedging relationship and at period end in which we compared the change in the fair value of the swap transaction and the change in fair value of a hypothetical interest rate swap having terms that identically match the terms of the debt's interest rate payments historical swap rates. We believe that the hedging instruments are expected to be highly effective at offsetting changes in the hedged transactions attributable to the risk being hedged. For each future reporting period, we will continue performing retrospective and prospective assessments of hedge effectiveness in a single regression analysis by updating the regression analysis that was prepared at inception of the hedging relationship.

Foreign currency hedge agreements

We use foreign currency derivative contracts to reduce our exposure to fluctuating exchange rates between the United States dollar (as our functional currency) and certain expense lines denominated in Israeli Shekels (“ILS”), Polish Zloty (“PLN”) and Romanian Leu (“RON”). Our derivative contracts are designated as cash flow hedges under ASC 815. We monitor the effectiveness of our hedges on a quarterly basis, both qualitatively and quantitatively, and expect these hedges to remain highly effective at offsetting fluctuations in exchange rates through their respective maturity dates. See Note 14, Derivative Instruments, to the financial statements included elsewhere in this filing for additional discussion.

The fair value of derivative financial instruments is recognized as an asset or liability at each balance sheet date, with changes in fair value recorded in other comprehensive income on the consolidated statements of comprehensive income until the future underlying transactions occur. The fair value approximates the amount we would pay or receive if these contracts were settled at the respective valuation dates. The inputs used to measure the fair value of our interest rate swap agreements are categorized as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy as established by ASC 820, Fair Value Measurement (“ASC 820”). The inputs used to measure the fair value of our foreign currency derivative contracts are categorized as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy as established by ASC 820.

Income taxes

Valuation allowances

We reduce the carrying amounts of deferred tax assets by a valuation allowance if, based on the available evidence, it is more likely than not that such assets will not be realized. Accordingly, the need to establish valuation allowances for deferred tax assets is assessed periodically based on the more likely than not realization threshold. This assessment considers, among other matters, the nature, frequency and severity of current and cumulative losses, forecasts of future profitability, the duration of statutory carryforward periods, our experience with operating loss and tax credit carryforwards expiring unused and tax planning alternatives.

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Uncertain tax positions

The Company is subject to income taxes in the U.S. and numerous foreign jurisdictions. The evaluation of the Company’s uncertain tax positions involves significant judgment in the interpretation and application of GAAP and complex domestic and international tax laws, and matters related to the allocation of international taxation rights between countries. Although management believes the Company’s reserves are reasonable, no assurance can be given that the final outcome of these uncertainties will not be different from that which is reflected in the Company’s reserves. Reserves are adjusted considering changing facts and circumstances, such as the closing of a tax examination. Resolution of these uncertainties in a manner inconsistent with management’s expectations could have a material impact on the Company’s financial condition and operating results.

Recently issued accounting pronouncements

See Note 1, Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, to the financial statements included elsewhere in this filing for a description of recently adopted accounting pronouncements and recently issued accounting pronouncements not yet adopted as of the date of this filing.

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

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the related notes included elsewhere in this annual report on Form 10-K. This discussion and analysis contains forward-looking statements that involve certain risks and uncertainties. Our actual results could differ materially from those discussed in these statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to these differences include those discussed below and elsewhere in this annual report on Form 10-K, particularly under the “Risk Factors” and “Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” sections.

Overview

We are one of the world’s leading developers of mobile games creating fun, innovative experiences that entertain and engage our users. We have built best-in-class live game operations services and a proprietary technology platform to support our portfolio of games which enable us to drive strong user engagement and monetization. Our games are free-to-play, and we are experts in providing novel, curated in-game content and offers to our users, at optimal points in their game journeys. Our players love our games because they are fun, creative, engaging, and kept fresh through a release of new features that are customized for different player segments.

Key Factors Affecting Our Business

There are a number of factors that affect the performance of our business, and the comparability of our results from period to period, including:

•Conversion of players into paying users and ongoing monetization. While our games are free-to-play, we generate substantially all of our revenues from players’ purchases of in-game virtual items. Our financial performance is dependent, in part, on our ability to convert more active players into paying players and sustainably grow user spend over the long term. Our players’ willingness to consistently make in-app purchases is impacted by our ability to deliver engaging content and personalized user experiences.

•Acquisitions of games and new technology. We have grown and expect to continue to grow our business by acquiring games and game studios that we believe can benefit from our live operations services, our Playtika Boost Platform, our design experience, and our scale. When we acquire games and studios, we focus on providing existing audiences with proven content and applying our live operations to create a better game experience for users. We also seek to make acquisitions in technology that enhance our marketing, artificial intelligence and research and development capabilities.

•Offering of new games and release of new content, offers, and features. Our revenue growth has been driven by improving the content, offers, and features in our existing games and the acquisition of new games. In order to enhance the content, offers, and features in our existing games and to develop or acquire new games, we must invest a significant amount of our technological and creative resources, ensuring that we support an effective cadence of novel content creation that drives conversion and continued monetization. These expenditures generally occur months in advance of the release of new content or the launch or acquisition of a new game.

•User acquisition. We believe that we will be able to continue to grow our user base, including through traditional marketing and advertising, informal marketing campaigns, and cross-promoting between our games, including new games we develop or acquire. We intend to continue to seek new opportunities to enhance and refine these marketing efforts to acquire new users, including identifying potential technologies to enhance our marketing and advertising capabilities.

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Components of our Results of Operations

Revenues

We primarily derive revenue from the sale of virtual items associated with online games.

We distribute our games to the end customer through various web and mobile platforms, such as Apple, Facebook, Google and other web and mobile platforms plus our own Direct-to-Consumer platforms. Through these platforms, users can download our free-to-play games and can purchase virtual items to enhance their game-playing experience. Players can purchase virtual items through various widely accepted payment methods offered in the games. Payments from players for virtual items are non-refundable and relate to non-cancellable contracts that specify our obligations and cannot be redeemed for cash nor exchanged for anything other than virtual items within our games.

Our games are played on various third-party platforms for which the platform providers collect proceeds from our customers and pay us an amount after deducting platform fees. For purchases made through both the third-party and Direct-to-Consumer platforms, we are primarily responsible for fulfilling the virtual items, have the control over the content and functionality of games and have the discretion to establish the virtual items’ prices. Therefore, we are the principal and, accordingly revenues are recorded on a gross basis. Payment processing fees paid to platform providers are recorded within cost of revenue.

Cost of revenue

Cost of revenue includes payment processing fees, customer support, hosting fees and depreciation and amortization expenses associated with assets directly involved in the generation of revenues, including servers and internal use software. Platform providers (such as Apple, Facebook and Google) charge a transactional payment processing fee to accept payments from our players for the purchase of in-app virtual goods. Payment processing fees and other related expenses for in-app purchases made through our Direct-to-Consumer platforms are typically 3-4%, compared to a 30% platform fee for third party platforms. We generally expect cost of revenue to fluctuate proportionately with revenues.

Research and development

Research and development consists of salaries, bonuses, benefits, other compensation, including stock-based compensation and allocated overhead, related to engineering, research, and development. In addition, research and development expenses include depreciation and amortization expenses associated with assets associated with our research and development efforts. We expect research and development expenses will increase in absolute dollars as our business expands and as we increase our personnel headcount to support the expected growth in our technical development and operating activities. We also expect that research and development expenses specifically associated with new game development will fluctuate over time.

Sales and marketing

Sales and marketing consists of costs related to advertising and user acquisition, including costs related to salaries, bonuses, benefits, and other compensation, including stock-based compensation and allocated overhead. In addition, sales and marketing expenses include depreciation and amortization expenses associated with assets related to our sales and marketing efforts. We plan to continue to invest in sales and marketing to retain and acquire users. However, sales and marketing expenses may fluctuate as a percentage of revenues depending on the timing and efficiency of our marketing efforts.

General and administrative

General and administrative expenses consist of salaries, bonuses, benefits, and other compensation, including stock-based compensation, for all our corporate support functional areas, including our senior leadership. In addition, general and administrative expenses include outsourced professional services such as consulting, legal and accounting services, taxes and dues, insurance premiums, and costs associated with maintaining our property and infrastructure. General and administrative expenses also include depreciation and amortization expenses associated with assets not directly attributable to any of the expense categories above. We also record adjustments to contingent consideration payable recorded after the acquisition date,

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and legal settlement expenses, as components of general and administrative expense. We expect general and administrative expenses will increase in absolute dollars to support our expected growth initiatives.

Interest expense and other, net

Our interest expense includes interest incurred under our December 2019 Credit Agreement and amortization of deferred financing costs, both of which are partially offset by interest income earned on the investment of excess cash and cash equivalents. We expect to continue to incur interest expense under our Credit Agreement, although such interest expense will fluctuate based upon the underlying variable interest rates. In March 2021, we entered into two interest rate swap agreements, each with a notional value of $250 million, reducing our overall exposure to variable interest rates.

Interest income consists of interest earned on cash, cash equivalents and short-term bank deposits.

Provision for income taxes

The provision for income taxes consists of current income taxes in the various jurisdictions where we are subject to taxation, primarily the United States, the United Kingdom, Israel, Germany, and Austria, as well as deferred income taxes reflecting the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in each of these jurisdictions for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. Under current U.S. tax law, the federal statutory tax rate applicable to corporations is 21%. Our effective tax rate can fluctuate based on various factors, including our financial results and the geographic mix to which they relate, the applicability of special tax regimes, changes in our business or operations, examination-related developments and uncertain tax positions, and changes in tax law.

Net Income

We calculate net income as revenue minus cost of revenues, research and development, sales and marketing and general and administrative expenses, interest and taxes.

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Results of Operations

The tables below show the results of our key financial and operating metrics for the periods indicated. Unless otherwise indicated, financial metrics are presented in millions of U.S. Dollars, user statistics are presented in millions of users, and ARPDAU is presented in U.S. Dollars.

We measure the performance of our business by using several key financial metrics, including revenue and operating income, and operating metrics, including Daily Active Users, Average Revenue per Daily Active User, Paying Users, and Average Revenue per Paying User. These operating metrics help our management to understand and measure the engagement levels of the Company’s players, the size of its audience and its reach. See “Basis of Presentation” and “Summary Consolidated Financial and Other Data” for additional information of these measures.

Comparison of the year ended December 31, 2022 versus the year ended December 31, 2021

Revenues

Revenues for the year ended December 31, 2022 increased by $32.5 million when compared to 2021. This year-over-year comparison includes incremental revenues of $34.3 million generated from the Company’s August 2021 acquisition Reworks. Absent this acquisition, revenues in 2022 declined when compared with 2021 as improved monetization and increased revenues from new content and product features across our broader portfolio of games were unable to offset the incremental revenues recognized in 2021 due to the Covid pandemic. The combination of unusually high DAUs in early

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2021, combined with the continued focus of the Company’s marketing efforts on player conversion rather than increasing player traffic lead to a decrease in DAUs for 2022 when compared with 2021. The same focus on player conversion, combined with improvements to monetization, new content and new product features drove an increase in DPUs in 2022 compared to 2021. The increase in revenues generated from Direct-to-Consumer platforms as a percentage of total revenues resulted from marketing activities for the games offered through these platforms.

Cost of revenue

Cost of revenue for the year ended December 31, 2022 increased by $6.7 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2021. The increase in cost of revenue includes approximately $10.0 million in incremental platform fees associated with the August 2021 acquisition of Reworks. Absent this acquisition, cost of revenues for 2022 would have declined when compared to 2021, primarily as a result of the increase in revenues generated through our Direct-to-Consumer platforms, partially offset by increased depreciation and amortization expenses.

Research and development expenses

Research and development expenses for the year ended December 31, 2022 increased by $85.6 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2021. Research and development expenses were adversely impacted by increased headcount and associated payroll costs in our existing research and development operations, including costs incurred in connection with severance payments incurred during the fourth quarter 2022 in connection with our workforce reduction. In addition, stock-based compensation costs, net of amounts capitalized, included in research and development expenses increased by $15.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2022 when compared with the year ended December 31, 2021.

Sales and marketing expenses

Sales and marketing expenses for the year ended December 31, 2022 increased by $22.0 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2021. The increase in sales and marketing expenses was primarily related to increased amortization expense, increased media buy expenses, increased stock-based compensation costs, and increased headcount and higher associated payroll costs.

General and administrative expenses

General and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2022 increased by $9.0 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2021. General and administrative expenses includes stock-based compensation expenses of $69.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2022, compared with $64.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2021. Included in general and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2021, with no comparable amount for the year ended December 31, 2022, are bonus expenses of approximately $35.4 million paid as a result of the successful initial public offering of the Company’s stock in January 2021. Adjusting for these items, general and administrative expenses increased by approximately $39.3 million, primarily due to increased compensation costs associated with the long-term incentive plan and costs associated with exploring strategic alternatives, which were partially offset by reduced expense attributable to adjusting contingent consideration to fair value.

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Comparison of the year ended December 31, 2021 versus the year ended December 31, 2020

Revenues

Revenues for the year ended December 31, 2021 increased by $211.5 million when compared to 2020. The increase in revenues was due to incremental revenues of $32.4 million generated from the Company’s August 2021 acquisition of 80% of the issued and registered shares and options of Reworks, combined with improved monetization and increased revenues from new content and product features across our broader portfolio of games when compared to 2020. The combination of unusually high DAUs in early 2020 related to the initial onset of COVID 19, combined with the continued focus of the Company’s marketing efforts on player conversion rather than increasing player traffic lead to a decrease in DAUs for 2021 when compared with 2020. The same focus on player conversion, combined with improvements to monetization, new content and new product features drove an increase in DPUs in 2021 compared with 2020. The increase in revenues generated from Direct-to-Consumer platforms as a percentage of total revenues resulted from marketing activities for the games offered through these platforms.

Cost of revenue

Cost of revenue for the year ended December 31, 2021 increased by $16.8 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2020. The increase in cost of revenue includes approximately $9.7 million in incremental platform fees associated with the August 2021 acquisition of Reworks. The remaining increase was primarily due to increased amortization expense for capitalized software and for intangible assets associated with recent acquisitions.

Research and development expenses

Research and development expenses for the year ended December 31, 2021 increased by $117.8 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2020. Research and development expenses were adversely impacted by increased headcount and associated payroll costs in our existing research and development operations and, to a lesser extent, by the expansion of our research and development operations into new offices in Poland. In addition, stock-based compensation costs, net of amounts capitalized, included in research and development expenses increased by $27.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 when compared with the year ended December 31, 2020.

Sales and marketing expenses

Sales and marketing expenses for the year ended December 31, 2021 increased by $79.7 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2020. The increase in sales and marketing expenses was primarily due to approximately $21.7 million in incremental expenses incurred by us related to the acquisition of Reworks, and to increased marketing expenses related to media buy expenses, increased stock-based compensation costs, and increased headcount and higher associated payroll costs.

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General and administrative expenses

General and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2021 decreased by $177.8 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2020. General and administrative expenses includes stock-based compensation expenses of $64.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2021, compared with $275.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2020. Included in general and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2021, with no comparable amount for the year ended December 31, 2020, are bonus expenses of approximately $35.4 million paid as a result of the successful initial public offering of the Company’s stock in January 2021. Included in general and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2020, with no comparable amount for the year ended December 31, 2021, are expenses of approximately $37.6 million related to a litigation settlement. Adjusting for these items, general and administrative expenses increased by approximately $35.2 million, primarily due to increased compensation costs associated with the long-term incentive plan, which was partially offset by reduced expense attributable to adjusting contingent consideration to fair value.

Other Factors Affecting Net Income

Interest expense

Interest expense in 2022, 2021 and 2020 is primarily related to amounts borrowed under the December 2019 Credit Facilities.

The decrease in interest expense in 2022 when compared with 2021 is driven primarily by lower average interest rates. The increase in interest income in 2022 when compared with 2021 is driven primarily by more active investment of excess cash in income-bearing investments.

On March 11, 2021, the Company amended the Credit Agreement which, among other things, effected a refinancing of the Old Term Loan with a new $1.9 billion senior secured first lien term loan borrowed under the Credit Agreement. Also on March 11, 2021, the Company issued $600.0 million aggregate principal amount of its 4.250% senior notes due 2029 under an indenture, dated March 11, 2021. The combination of these two March 2021 transactions significantly reduced our average interest rates on our outstanding indebtedness, driving the decrease in interest expense in 2021 when compared with 2020.

Interest income

Interest income in 2022, 2021 and 2020 is primarily related to interest earned on cash, cash equivalents and short term bank deposits, of which there were greater amounts in 2022.

Taxes on income

The provision for income tax was $85.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2022 and the effective income tax rate was 23.7%. The difference between the effective income tax rate and the U.S. statutory tax rate is due to recurring items such as tax rates in foreign jurisdictions and the relative amounts of income earned in those jurisdictions, unrecognized tax benefits, and GILTI inclusion. It is also affected by items that are not consistent from year to year. Of these items, the primary differences related to the reversal of a valuation allowance relating to foreign net operating losses and return-to-provision adjustments.

The provision for income tax was $99.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 and the effective income tax rate was 24.5%. The difference between the effective income tax rate and the U.S. statutory tax rate was due to recurring items such as

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tax rates in foreign jurisdictions and the relative amounts of income earned in those jurisdictions, unrecognized tax benefits, and GILTI inclusion. It is also affected by items that are not consistent from year to year. Of these items, the primary difference related to the reversal of deferred tax liabilities due to the change in reinvestment assertion related to undistributed earnings of certain of our non-U.S. subsidiaries during the year.

The provision for income tax was $102.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, and the effective income tax rate was 52.6%. The difference between the effective income tax rate and the U.S. statutory tax rate was due to recurring items such as tax rates in foreign jurisdictions and the relative amounts of income earned in those jurisdictions. In addition, the effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2020 was affected by significant non-deductible stock-based compensation expense for certain restricted stock units granted during the year ended December 31, 2020.

Net income

Upon aggregating all of the components of our results of operations above, net income for the year ended December 31, 2022 decreased by $33.2 million when compared with 2021. Net income for the year ended December 31, 2021 increased $216.4 million when compared to 2020.

Reconciliation of Credit Adjusted EBITDA to net income

Credit Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure and should not be construed as an alternative to net income as an indicator of operating performance, nor as an alternative to cash flow provided by operating activities as a measure of liquidity, or any other performance measure in each case as determined in accordance with GAAP.

Below is a reconciliation of Credit Adjusted EBITDA to net income, the closest GAAP financial measure. Our Credit Agreement defines Adjusted EBITDA (which we call “Credit Adjusted EBITDA”) as net income before (i) interest expense, (ii) interest income, (iii) provision for income taxes, (iv) depreciation and amortization expense, (v) stock-based compensation, (vi) legal settlements, (vii) contingent consideration, (viii) acquisition and related expenses, and (ix) certain other items. We calculate Credit Adjusted EBITDA Margin as Credit Adjusted EBITDA divided by revenues.

Credit Adjusted EBITDA and Credit Adjusted EBITDA Margin as calculated herein may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies within the industry and are not determined in accordance with GAAP. Our presentation of Credit Adjusted EBITDA and Credit Adjusted EBITDA Margin should not be construed as an inference that our future results will be unaffected by unusual or unexpected items.

__________

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(1)    Reflects, for all years, stock-based compensation expense related to the issuance of equity awards to certain of our employees.

(2)    Amounts for the year ended December 31, 2022 primarily relate to expenses incurred by the Company in connection with the evaluation of strategic alternatives for the Company. Amounts for the year ended December 31, 2021 primarily relate to bonus expenses paid as a result of the successful initial public offering of the Company’s stock in January 2021. Amounts for the year ended December 31, 2020 include third-party fees for actual or planned acquisitions, including related legal, consulting and other expenditures.

(3)    Reflects a legal settlement expense of $37.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2020.

(4)    Amount for the year ended December 31, 2022 consists of $13.2 million incurred by the Company for severance, $4.1 million incurred by the Company for relocation and support provided to employees due to the war in Ukraine and $16.4 million incurred related to the announced restructuring activities. Amounts for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020 include business optimization expenses.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Capital spending

We incur capital expenditures in the normal course of business and perform ongoing enhancements and updates to our social and mobile games to maintain their quality standards. Cash used for capital expenditures in the normal course of business is typically made available from cash flows generated by operating activities. We may also pursue acquisition opportunities for additional businesses or social or mobile games that meet our strategic and return on investment criteria. Capital needs are evaluated on an individual investment basis and may require significant capital commitments.

Liquidity

Our primary sources of liquidity are the cash flows generated from our operations, currently available unrestricted cash and cash equivalents, short-term bank deposits, and borrowings under our Credit Facility and Revolver. Our cash and cash equivalents and short-term bank deposits totaled $768.7 million and $1,117.1 million at December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively. As of December 31, 2022 and 2021, we had $600 million in additional borrowing capacity pursuant to our Revolving Credit Facility. Payments of short-term debt obligations and other commitments are expected to be made from cash on the balance sheet and operating cash flows. Long-term obligations are expected to be paid through operating cash flows, or, if necessary, borrowings under our Revolving Credit facility or, if necessary, additional term loans or issuances of equity.

Our restricted cash totaled $1.7 million and $2.0 million at December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively. Restricted cash primarily consists of deposits to secure obligations under our operating lease agreements and to secure company-issued credit cards. The classification of restricted cash as current and long-term is dependent upon the intended use of each particular reserve.

Our ability to fund our operations, pay our debt obligations and fund planned capital expenditures depends, in part, upon economic and other factors that are beyond our control, and disruptions in capital markets could impact our ability to secure additional funds through financing activities. We believe that our cash and cash equivalents balance, short-term bank deposits, restricted cash, borrowing capacity under our Revolving Credit Facility and our cash flows from operations will be sufficient to meet our normal operating requirements during the next 12 months and the foreseeable future and to fund capital expenditures.

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Cash flows

The following tables present a summary of our cash flows for the periods indicated (in millions):

Operating activities

Net cash flows provided by operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2022 decreased $58.0 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2021. Net cash flows provided by operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2021 increased $34.0 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2020.

Net cash flow provided by operating activities for each period primarily consisted of net income generated during the period, exclusive of non-cash expenses such as depreciation, amortization and stock-based compensation, with changes in working capital impacted by normal timing differences.

Investing activities

Net cash flows used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2022 decreased $534.8 million when compared to the year ended December 31, 2021 mainly due to $394.1 million of consideration paid (net of cash acquired) for the 2021 acquisition of Reworks.

Net cash flows used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2021 increased $511.3 million when compared to the year ended December 31, 2020, due to $394.1 million of consideration paid (net of cash acquired) for the 2021 acquisition of Reworks.

Financing activities

Net cash flows used in financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2022 was $652.0 million when compared to net cash flows provided by financing activities of $559.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2021. Financing activity cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2022 primarily related to the Company’s Tender Offer in October 2022. Financing activity cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2021 primarily related to the Company’s initial public offering of its equity in January 2021, and the refinancing of its Old Term Loan (as defined below) in March 2021.

Net cash flows provided by financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2021 increased $741.0 million when compared to the year ended December 31, 2020. Financing activity cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2021 primarily relate to the Company’s initial public offering of its equity in January 2021, and the refinancing of its Old Term Loan in March 2021. Financing activity cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2020 primarily relate to repayments on the Company’s bank borrowings.

Capital resources

On December 10, 2019, we entered into $2,750 million of senior secured credit facilities (the “Credit Facilities”), consisting of a $250 million revolving credit facility (the “Revolving Credit Facility”), and a $2,500 million first lien term loan (the “Old Term Loan”). The Credit Facilities were provided pursuant to the Credit Agreement, dated as of December 10, 2019, by and among Playtika, the lenders party thereto, and Credit Suisse, AG, Cayman Islands Branch, as administrative agent (in

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such capacity, the "Administrative Agent") and collateral agent (in such capacity, the "Collateral Agent"). Proceeds borrowed under the Credit Facilities on the closing date were used to pay off the outstanding balance on our prior debt facility. On June 15, 2020, we increased the capacity of the Revolving Credit Facility to $350 million. On January 15, 2021, we increased the borrowing capacity of the Revolving Credit Facility from $350 million to $550 million.

On March 11, 2021, the Credit Agreement was amended pursuant to an Incremental Assumption Agreement No. 3 and Second Amendment to Credit Agreement (the “Second Amendment”).

The Second Amendment, among other things, effected a refinancing of Old Term Loan with a new $1.9 billion senior secured first lien term loan borrowed under the Credit Agreement (the “New Term Loan”), increased the Revolving Credit Facility to $600 million and extended the maturity of the Revolving Credit Facility to March 11, 2026. The New Term Loan matures on March 11, 2028 and requires scheduled quarterly principal payments in amounts equal to 0.25% of the original aggregate principal amount of the New Term Loan, with the balance due at maturity.

Also on March 11, 2021, we issued $600.0 million aggregate principal amount of our 4.250% senior notes due 2029 (the “Notes”). The Notes mature on March 15, 2029. Interest on the Notes will accrue at a rate of 4.250% per annum. Interest on the Notes is payable semi-annually in cash in arrears on March 15 and September 15 of each year, commencing on September 15, 2021.

Significant terms of the Credit Facilities, the New Term Loan and the Notes, including balances outstanding, interest and fees, mandatory and voluntary prepayment requirements, collateral and guarantors and restrictive covenants are detailed in Note 12, Debt, to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

Critical accounting policies and estimates

We prepare our financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP.

Certain accounting policies require that we apply significant judgment in defining the appropriate assumptions for calculating financial estimates. By their nature, these judgments will be subject to an inherent degree of uncertainty. Our judgments are based upon our management’s historical experience, terms of existing contracts, observance of trends in the industry, information provided by our customers and information available from other outside sources, as appropriate.

We consider accounting estimates to be critical accounting policies when:

•the estimates involve matters that are highly uncertain at the time the accounting estimate is made; and

•different estimates or changes to estimates could have a material impact on the reported financial positions, changes in financial position or results of operations.

When more than one accounting principle, or method of its application, is generally accepted, we select the principle or method that we consider to be the most appropriate when given the specific circumstances. Application of these accounting principles requires us to make estimates about the future resolution of existing uncertainties. Due to the inherent uncertainty involving estimates, actual results reported in the future may differ from such estimates. For additional information on our significant accounting policies, please refer to Note 1, Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, to the financial statements included elsewhere in this filing.

Business combinations

We apply the provisions of ASC 805, Business Combination and allocate the fair value of purchase consideration to the tangible assets acquired, liabilities assumed, and intangible assets acquired based on their estimated fair values. The excess of the fair value of purchase consideration over the fair values of these identifiable assets and liabilities is recorded as goodwill. When determining the fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed, management makes significant estimates and assumptions, especially with respect to intangible assets.

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Significant estimates in valuing certain intangible assets include, but are not limited to, future expected cash flows from acquired technology and acquired trademarks and user base from a market participant perspective, useful lives and discount rates. Management’s estimates of fair value are based upon assumptions believed to be reasonable, but which are inherently uncertain and unpredictable and, as a result, actual results may differ from estimates.

Software development costs

We review internal use software development cost associated with infrastructure and new games or updates to existing games to determine if the costs qualify for capitalizing. The development costs incurred during the application development stage that are related to infrastructure are capitalized. Internal use software is included in intangible assets other than goodwill, net in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Capitalization of such costs begins when the preliminary project stage is completed and ceases at the point in which the project is substantially complete and is ready for its intended purpose. With respect to new games or updates to existing games, the preliminary project stage remains ongoing until just prior to worldwide launch. The development costs related to new games or updates to existing games are expensed as incurred to research and development in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.

Goodwill

The purchase price of an acquisition is allocated to the underlying assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon their estimated fair values at the date of acquisition. We determine the estimated fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed after review and consideration of relevant information including discounted cash flows, quoted market prices, and estimates made by management. To the extent the purchase price exceeds the fair value of the net identifiable tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed, such excess is recorded as goodwill. Under ASC 350, Intangible—Goodwill and Other, goodwill is not amortized, but rather is subject to an annual impairment test.

We test goodwill for impairment as of October 1st of each year, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that this asset may be impaired. For the purposes of impairment testing, we have determined that we have one reporting unit. When performing the annual goodwill impairment testing, we either conduct a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is more likely than not that the asset is impaired, or we elect to bypass this qualitative assessment and perform a quantitative test for impairment.

Under the qualitative assessment, we consider both positive and negative factors, including macroeconomic conditions, industry events, financial performance and other changes, and makes a determination of whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of goodwill is less than its carrying amount. If, after assessing the qualitative factors, we determine it is more likely than not the asset is impaired, we then perform a quantitative test in which the estimated fair value of the reporting unit is compared with its carrying amount, including goodwill.

If a quantitative analysis is necessary, we compare the fair value of our reporting unit to our carrying value. We determine the estimated fair value based on a combination of EBITDA and estimated future cash flows discounted at rates commensurate with the capital structure and cost of capital of comparable market participants, giving appropriate consideration to the prevailing borrowing rates within the industry in general. EBITDA multiples and discounted cash flows are common measures used to value businesses in our industry.

If the estimated fair value exceeds carrying value, goodwill is considered not to be impaired and no additional steps are necessary. However, if the carrying amount exceeds estimated fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to the excess, limited to the amount of goodwill allocated to the reporting unit.

The annual evaluation of goodwill requires the use of estimates about future operating results, valuation multiples, and discount rates to determine their fair value. Changes in these assumptions can materially affect these estimates. Thus, to the extent the revenues volumes deteriorate in the near future, discount rates increase significantly, or we do not meet our projected performance, we could have impairments to record in the next twelve months, and such impairments could be material.

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Impairment of long-lived assets

Our long-lived assets to be held or used, including right-of-use (“ROU”) assets, and identifiable intangible assets that are subject to amortization are tested for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable, in accordance with ASC 360, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets. Impairment indicators include any significant changes in the manner of the Company’s use of the assets and significant negative industry or economic trends. We recognize impairment based on the difference between the fair value of the asset and its carrying value. Fair value is generally measured based on either quoted market prices, if available, or a discounted cash flow analysis.

Upon determination that the carrying value of a long-lived asset may not be recoverable based upon a comparison of aggregate undiscounted projected future cash flows to the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment charge is recorded for the excess of the carrying amount over fair value. There is inherent uncertainty in our forecasts and projections used in any impairment analysis, and different assumptions and estimates could have lead to different impairment test results, and those results could have been materially different.

The preparation of cash flow projections for use in any impairment indicators test or fair value analysis requires management to make critical estimates, judgments and assumptions with regards to estimated future cash flows, as they are, by their nature, subjective and actual results may differ materially from such estimates. Cash flow estimates are unpredictable and inherently uncertain, since they are based on the current regulatory, political and economic climates, recent operating information and projections. Such estimates could be negatively impacted by changes in federal, state or local regulations, economic downturns, competition, events affecting various forms of travel and access to our properties, and other factors. If our estimates of future cash flows are not met or if there are changes in significant assumptions and judgments used in the estimation process, we may have to record impairment charges in the future.

Revenue recognition

We primarily derive revenues from the sale of virtual items associated with online games. We distribute our games to the end customer through various web and mobile platforms such as Apple, Facebook, Google, and other web and mobile platforms. Through these platforms, users can download our free-to-play games and can purchase virtual currency which is redeemed in the game for virtual goods, or players can purchase virtual goods directly (collectively referred to as virtual items) to enhance their game-playing experience.

The initial download of the games does not create a contract under ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, or ASC 606; however, the separate election by the player to make an in-application purchase satisfies the ASC 606 criterion for creating a contract.

Players can pay for their virtual item purchases through various widely accepted payment methods offered in the games. Payments from players for virtual items are required at the time of purchase, are non-refundable and relate to non-cancellable contracts that specify our obligations and cannot be redeemed for cash nor exchanged for anything other than virtual items within our games. The purchase price is a fixed amount which reflects the consideration that we expect to be entitled to receive in exchange for use of virtual items by our customers. The platform providers collect proceeds from the game players and remit the proceeds to us after deducting their respective platform fees.

We are primarily responsible for providing the virtual items, have control over the content and functionality of games and have the discretion to establish the virtual items’ prices. Therefore, we are the principal and, accordingly revenues are recorded on a gross basis. Payment processing fees paid to platform providers are recorded within cost of revenue. Our performance obligation is to display the virtual items within the game over the estimated life of the paying player or until the virtual item is consumed in game play based upon the nature of the virtual item.

We categorize our virtual items as either consumable or durable. The substantial majority of our games sell only consumable virtual items. Consumable virtual items represent items that can be consumed by a specific player action and do not provide the player any continuing benefit following consumption. For the sale of consumable virtual items, we recognize revenues as the items are consumed (i.e. over time) which is usually up to one month. We have determined through a review of game play

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behavior that players generally do not purchase additional virtual currency until their existing virtual currency balances have been substantially consumed. This review, performed on a game-by-game basis, includes an analysis of game players’ historical play behavior, purchase behavior, and the amount of virtual currency outstanding. Based upon this analysis, we have estimated the rate at which virtual currency is consumed during game play within each game. Accordingly, revenues are recognized using a user-based revenue model using these estimated consumption rates. We monitor our analysis of customer play behavior on a quarterly basis.

Durable virtual items represent items that are accessible to the player over an extended period of time. We sell durable virtual items primarily through games acquired in recent acquisitions. We recognize revenues from the sale of durable virtual items ratably over the estimated average life of the paying player, which is estimated on a game-by-game basis and generally ranges from three months up to one year. We estimate the average life of the paying player based on historical paying player patterns and playing behaviors within each of the specific games that offer durable virtual items. We monitor our operational data and player patterns and re-assess our estimates on a quarterly basis.

Deferred revenues, which represent a contract liability, represent mostly unrecognized fees collected for virtual items which are not consumed at the balance sheets date, or for players that are still active in the games.

Sales and other taxes collected from customers on behalf of governmental authorities are accounted for on a net basis and are not included in revenues or operating expenses.

We also have relationships with certain advertising service providers for advertisements within our games and revenues from these advertising providers is generated through impressions, clickthroughs, banner ads and offers. We have determined that displaying the advertisements within the mobile games is identified as a single performance obligation. The transaction price in advertising arrangements is established by our advertising service providers and is generally the product of the number of advertising units delivered (e.g. impressions, offers completed, etc.) and the contractually agreed upon price per unit. Revenues from advertisements and offers are recognized at a point-in-time when the advertisements are displayed in the game or the offer has been completed by the user as the customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits provided from these services. We have determined that we are generally acting as an agent in our advertising arrangements as the advertising service providers maintain the relationship with the customers, control the pricing of the advertising such that we do not know the total price paid by the customer to the service providers, and control the advertising product through the time the advertisements are displayed in our games. Therefore, we recognize revenues related to these arrangements on a net basis.

Stock-based compensation expense

We have a stock-based compensation program which provides for equity awards including time-based stock options, restricted stock units (“RSUs”) and performance stock units (“PSUs”). Stock-based compensation expense is measured at the grant date, based on the estimated fair value of the award, and is recognized as expense on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for options and RSUs and on an accelerated basis for PSUs. The Company records forfeitures as a reduction of stock-based compensation expense as those forfeitures occur.

We used the Black-Scholes option pricing model to estimate the fair value and compensation cost associated with stock options. As we do not have a long history of market prices for our common stock because the stock was not publicly traded prior to January 2021, we used observable data for a group of peer companies that grant options with substantially similar terms to assist in developing our volatility assumptions. The expected volatility of the stock was determined using weighted average measures of the implied volatility and the historical volatility for our peer group of companies for a period equal to the expected life of the options. The weighted-average risk-free interest rates were based on the interest rate for U.S. Treasury bonds. The expected term assumptions were derived using the simplified method, which is based on an average between each vesting date and the expiration date of an option. This method was chosen because there was no historical option exercise experience due to us being privately held. We do not anticipate paying cash dividends on our shares of common stock in the future. The stock options have a contractual term of 10 years. Except as otherwise provided in an agreement between us and the employee, if an employee is terminated (voluntarily or involuntarily), any unvested awards as of the date of termination will be forfeited.

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If factors change and we employ different assumptions, stock-based compensation cost on future awards may differ significantly from what we have recorded in the past. Higher volatility and longer expected terms result in an increase to stock-based compensation determined at the date of grant. Future stock-based compensation cost and unrecognized stock-based compensation will increase to the extent that we grant additional equity awards to employees or assume unvested equity awards in connection with acquisitions. If there are any modifications or cancellations of the underlying unvested equity awards, we may be required to accelerate any remaining unearned stock-based compensation cost or incur incremental cost.

We use the associated per-share value at the time of grant to determine the compensation cost to be recognized associated with RSUs and PSUs granted. We periodically review the estimates of performance against the defined criteria to assess the expected payout of each outstanding PSU grant and adjust the stock compensation expense accordingly.

For RSUs, shares are issued on the vesting dates net of the applicable statutory income tax withholding to be paid by us on behalf of our employees. As a result, fewer shares are generally issued than the number of RSUs outstanding, and the income tax withholding is recorded as a reduction to additional paid-in capital.

Our stock-based compensation expense is recorded in the financial statement line items relevant to each of the award recipients. See Note 13, Equity Transactions and Stock Incentive Plan, in the accompanying audited consolidated financial statements for the three years ended December 31, 2022 for additional discussion.

Derivative instruments

We use interest rate swap contracts to reduce our exposure to fluctuating interest rates associated with our variable rate debt, and to effectively increase the portion of debt upon which we pay a fixed interest rate. Our interest rate swap agreements are designated as cash flow hedges under ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging (“ASC 815”), involving the receipt of variable amounts from a counterparty in exchange for us making fixed-rate payments over the life of the agreement, without the exchange of the underlying notional amount. These hedges are highly effective in offsetting changes in our future expected cash flows due to the fluctuation of our variable rate debt.

We monitor the effectiveness of our hedges on a quarterly basis, both qualitatively and quantitatively. We performed a regression analysis at inception of the hedging relationship and at period end in which it compared the change in the fair value of the swap transaction and the change in fair value of a hypothetical interest rate swap having terms that identically match the terms of the debt's interest rate payments based on at least 30 observations that are based on historical swap rates. Based on the regression results, we believe that, at inception and at period end, the hedging instrument is expected to be highly effective at offsetting changes in the hedged transactions attributable to the risk being hedged. For each future reporting period, we will continue performing retrospective and prospective assessments of hedge effectiveness in a single regression analysis by updating the regression analysis that was prepared at inception of the hedging relationship.

We use foreign currency derivative contracts to reduce our exposure to fluctuating exchange rates between the United States dollar (as our functional currency) and certain expense lines denominated in Israeli Shekels (“ILS”), Polish Zloty (“PLN”) and Romanian Leu (“RON”). Our derivative contracts are designated as cash flow hedges under ASC 815. We monitor the effectiveness of our hedges on a quarterly basis, both qualitatively and quantitatively, and expects these hedges to remain highly effective at offsetting fluctuations in exchange rates through their respective maturity dates. See Note 14, Derivative Instruments, for additional discussion.

The fair value of derivative financial instruments is recognized as an asset or liability at each balance sheet date, with changes in fair value recorded in other comprehensive income on the consolidated statements of comprehensive income until the future underlying transactions occur. The fair value approximates the amount we would pay or receive if these contracts were settled at the respective valuation dates. The inputs used to measure the fair value of our interest rate swap agreements are categorized as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy as established by ASC 820, Fair Value Measurement (“ASC 820”). The inputs used to measure the fair value of our foreign currency derivative contracts are categorized as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy as established by ASC 820.

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Income taxes

Valuation allowances

We reduce the carrying amounts of deferred tax assets by a valuation allowance if, based on the available evidence, it is more likely than not that such assets will not be realized. Accordingly, the need to establish valuation allowances for deferred tax assets is assessed periodically based on the more likely than not realization threshold. This assessment considers, among other matters, the nature, frequency and severity of current and cumulative losses, forecasts of future profitability, the duration of statutory carryforward periods, our experience with operating loss and tax credit carryforwards expiring unused and tax planning alternatives.

Uncertain tax positions

The Company is subject to income taxes in the U.S. and numerous foreign jurisdictions. The evaluation of the Company’s uncertain tax positions involves significant judgment in the interpretation and application of GAAP and complex domestic and international tax laws, and matters related to the allocation of international taxation rights between countries. Although management believes the Company’s reserves are reasonable, no assurance can be given that the final outcome of these uncertainties will not be different from that which is reflected in the Company’s reserves. Reserves are adjusted considering changing facts and circumstances, such as the closing of a tax examination. Resolution of these uncertainties in a manner inconsistent with management’s expectations could have a material impact on the Company’s financial condition and operating results.

Recently issued accounting pronouncements

See Note 1, Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, to our audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this filing for a description of recently adopted accounting pronouncements and recently issued accounting pronouncements not yet adopted as of the date of this filing.

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

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the related notes included elsewhere in this annual report on Form 10-K. This discussion and analysis contains forward-looking statements that involve certain risks and uncertainties. Our actual results could differ materially from those discussed in these statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to these differences include those discussed below and elsewhere in this annual report on Form 10-K, particularly under the “Risk Factors” and “Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” sections.

Overview

We are one of the world’s leading developers of mobile games creating fun, innovative experiences that entertain and engage our users. We have built best-in-class live game operations services and a proprietary technology platform to support our portfolio of games which enable us to drive strong user engagement and monetization. Our games are free-to-play, and we are experts in providing novel, curated in-game content and offers to our users, at optimal points in their game journeys. Our players love our games because they are fun, creative, engaging, and kept fresh through a steady release of new features that are customized for different player segments.

Key Factors Affecting Our Business

There are a number of factors that affect the performance of our business, and the comparability of our results from period to period, including:

•Conversion of players into paying users and ongoing monetization. While our games are free-to-play, we generate substantially all of our revenues from players’ purchases of in-game virtual items. Our financial performance is dependent, in part, on our ability to convert more active players into paying players and sustainably grow user spend over the long term. Our players’ willingness to consistently make in-app purchases is impacted by our ability to deliver engaging content and personalized user experiences.

•Acquisitions of games and new technology. We have grown and expect to continue to grow our business by acquiring games and game studios that we believe can benefit from our live operations services, our Playtika Boost Platform, our design experience, and our scale. When we acquire games and studios, we focus on providing existing audiences with proven content and applying our live operations to create a better game experience for users. We also seek to make acquisitions in technology that enhance our marketing, artificial intelligence and research and development capabilities.

•Launch of new games and release of new content, offers, and features. Our revenue growth has been driven by improving the content, offers, and features in our existing games and the release or acquisition of new games. In order to enhance the content, offers, and features in our existing games and to develop or acquire new games, we must invest a significant amount of our technological and creative resources, ensuring that we support a consistent cadence of novel content creation that drives conversion and continued monetization. These expenditures generally occur months in advance of the release of new content or the launch or acquisition of a new game.

•User acquisition. We believe that we will be able to continue to grow our user base, including through traditional marketing and advertising, informal marketing campaigns, and cross-promoting between our games, including new games we develop or acquire. We intend to continue to seek new opportunities to enhance and refine these marketing efforts to acquire new users, including identifying potential technologies to enhance our marketing and advertising capabilities.

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COVID-19

The global pandemic associated with COVID-19 has caused major disruption to all aspects of the global economy and daily life, particularly as quarantine and stay-at-home orders have been imposed by all levels of government. We have followed guidance by the United States, Israeli and other applicable foreign and local governments to protect our employees and operations during the pandemic and have implemented a remote work environment for our business. We cannot predict the potential impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business or operations, but we continuously monitor performance and other industry reports to assess the risk of future negative impacts should the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to evolve.

Despite the challenges we have faced in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the stay-at-home orders that were in place across the United States sporadically throughout the pandemic have generally been favorable to our business as a result of increased time spent with digital entertainment, including casual gaming and games involving socially interactive experiences.

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in and may continue to result in consumers spending a greater portion of their time at home and sustained demand for entertainment options, which may continue to benefit our financial results. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused an economic recession, high unemployment rates, and other disruptions, both in the United States and the rest of the world. We cannot predict the potential impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business or operations, and there is no guarantee that these favorable trends will continue, particularly if the COVID-19 pandemic increases and the adverse consequences thereof in severity or continues for a protracted period of time, which could disrupt our operations, or put greater financial pressure on the economy and users’ discretionary income or spending habits. In addition, we could experience a decrease in user activity or spending after the COVID-19 pandemic subsides, which could adversely impact our cash flows, operating results, and financial condition. See “Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business—The recent COVID-19 pandemic and similar health epidemics, contagious disease outbreaks and public perception thereof, could significantly disrupt our operations and adversely affect our business, results of operations, cash flows or financial condition” for more information.

Components of our Results of Operations

Revenues

We primarily derive revenue from the sale of virtual items associated with online games.

We distribute our games to the end customer through various web and mobile platforms, such as Apple, Facebook, Google and other web and mobile platforms plus our own Direct-to-Consumer platforms. Through these platforms, users can download our free-to-play games and can purchase virtual items to enhance their game-playing experience. Players can purchase virtual items through various widely accepted payment methods offered in the games. Payments from players for virtual items are non-refundable and relate to non-cancellable contracts that specify our obligations and cannot be redeemed for cash nor exchanged for anything other than virtual items within our games.

Our games are played primarily on various third-party platforms for which the platform providers collect proceeds from our customers and pay us an amount after deducting platform fees. We are primarily responsible for fulfilling the virtual items, have the control over the content and functionality of games and have the discretion to establish the virtual items’ prices. Therefore, we are the principal and, accordingly revenues are recorded on a gross basis. Payment processing fees paid to platform providers are recorded within cost of revenue.

Cost of revenue

Cost of revenue includes payment processing fees, customer support, hosting fees and depreciation and amortization expenses associated with assets directly involved in the generation of revenues, including servers and internal use software. Platform providers (such as Apple, Facebook and Google) charge a transactional payment processing fee to accept payments from our players for the purchase of in-app virtual goods. Payment processing fees and other related expenses for in-app

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purchases made through our Direct-to-Consumer platforms are typically 3-4%, compared to a 30% platform fee for third party platforms. We generally expect cost of revenue to fluctuate proportionately with revenues.

Research and development

Research and development consists of salaries, bonuses, benefits, other compensation, including stock-based compensation and allocated overhead, related to engineering, research, and development. In addition, research and development expenses include depreciation and amortization expenses associated with assets associated with our research and development efforts. We expect research and development expenses will increase in absolute dollars as our business expands and as we increase our personnel headcount to support the expected growth in our technical development and operating activities. We also expect that research and development expenses specifically associated with new game development will fluctuate over time.

Sales and marketing

Sales and marketing consists of costs related to advertising and user acquisition, including costs related to salaries, bonuses, benefits, and other compensation, including stock-based compensation and allocated overhead. In addition, sales and marketing expenses include depreciation and amortization expenses associated with assets related to our sales and marketing efforts. We plan to continue to invest in sales and marketing to retain and acquire users. However, sales and marketing expenses may fluctuate as a percentage of revenues depending on the timing and efficiency of our marketing efforts.

General and administrative

General and administrative expenses consist of salaries, bonuses, benefits, and other compensation, including stock-based compensation, for all our corporate support functional areas, including our senior leadership. In addition, general and administrative expenses include outsourced professional services such as consulting, legal and accounting services, taxes and dues, insurance premiums, and costs associated with maintaining our property and infrastructure. General and administrative expenses also include depreciation and amortization expenses associated with assets not directly attributable to any of the expense categories above. We also record adjustments to contingent consideration payable recorded after the acquisition date, and legal settlement expenses, as components of general and administrative expense. We expect general and administrative expenses will increase in absolute dollars to support our expected growth initiatives.

Interest expense and other, net

We generally did not incur interest expense prior to August 2019. In August 2019, we borrowed $2,583 million under our Bridge Facility, and then subsequently refinanced the borrowings under that facility in December 2019 pursuant to our Credit Agreement, dated as of December 10, 2019. Our interest expense includes amortization of deferred financing costs and is offset by interest income earned on the investment of excess cash and cash equivalents. We expect to continue to incur interest expense under our Credit Agreement, although such interest expense will fluctuate based upon the underlying variable interest rates. In March 2021, we entered into two interest rate swap agreements, each with a notional value of $250 million, reducing our overall exposure to variable interest rates.

Provision for income taxes

The provision for income taxes consists of current income taxes in the various jurisdictions where we are subject to taxation, primarily the United States, the United Kingdom and Israel, as well as deferred income taxes reflecting the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in each of these jurisdictions for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. Under current U.S. tax law, the federal statutory tax rate applicable to corporations is 21%. Our effective tax rate can fluctuate based on various factors, including our financial results and the geographic mix to which they relate, the applicability of special tax regimes, changes in our business or operations, examination-related developments and uncertain tax positions, and changes in tax law.

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Results of Operations

The tables below show the results of our key financial and operating metrics for the periods indicated. Unless otherwise indicated, financial metrics are presented in millions of U.S. Dollars, user statistics are presented in millions of users, and ARPDAU is presented in U.S. Dollars.

We measure the performance of our business by using several key financial metrics, including revenue and operating income, and operating metrics, including Daily Active Users, Average Revenue per Daily Active User, Paying Users, and Average Revenue per Paying User. These operating metrics help our management to understand and measure the engagement levels of the Company’s players, the size of its audience and its reach. See “Basis of Presentation” and “Summary Consolidated Financial and Other Data” for additional information of these measures.

Comparison of the year ended December 31, 2021 versus the year ended December 31, 2020

Revenues

Revenues for the year ended December 31, 2021 increased by $211.5 million when compared to 2020. The increase in revenues was due to incremental revenues of $32.4 million generated from the Company’s August 2021 acquisition of 80% of the issued and registered shares and options of Reworks, combined with improved monetization and increased revenues from new content and product features across our broader portfolio of games when compared to 2020. The combination of unusually high DAUs in early 2020 related to the initial onset of COVID 19, combined with the continued focus of the

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Company’s marketing efforts on player conversion rather than increasing player traffic lead to a decrease in DAUs for 2021 when compared with 2020. The same focus on player conversion, combined with improvements to monetization, new content and new product features drove an increase in DPUs in 2021 compared with 2020. The increase in revenues generated from Direct-to-Consumer platforms as a percentage of total revenues resulted from marketing activities for the games offered through these platforms.

Cost of revenue

Cost of revenue for the year ended December 31, 2021 increased by $16.8 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2020. The increase in cost of revenue includes approximately $9.7 million in incremental platform fees associated with the August 2021 acquisition of Reworks. The remaining increase was primarily due to increased amortization expense for capitalized software and for intangible assets associated with recent acquisitions.

Research and development expenses

Research and development expenses for the year ended December 31, 2021 increased by $117.8 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2020. Research and development expenses were adversely impacted by increased headcount and associated payroll costs in our existing research and development operations and, to a lesser extent, by the expansion of our research and development operations into new offices in Poland. In addition, stock-based compensation costs, net of amounts capitalized, included in research and development expenses increased by $27.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 when compared with the year ended December 31, 2020.

Sales and marketing expenses

Sales and marketing expenses for the year ended December 31, 2021 increased by $79.7 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2020. The increase in sales and marketing expenses was primarily due to approximately $21.7 million in incremental expenses incurred by us related to the acquisition of Reworks, and to increased marketing expenses related to media buy expenses, increased stock-based compensation costs, and increased headcount and higher associated payroll costs.

General and administrative expenses

General and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2021 decreased by $177.8 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2020. General and administrative expenses includes stock-based compensation expenses of $64.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2021, compared with $275.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2020. Included in general and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2021, with no comparable amount for the year ended December 31, 2020, are bonus expenses of approximately $35.4 million paid as a result of the successful initial public offering of the Company’s stock in January 2021. Included in general and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2020, with no comparable amount for the year ended December 31, 2021, are expenses of approximately $37.6 million related to a litigation settlement. Adjusting for these items, general and administrative expenses increased by approximately $35.2 million, primarily due to increased compensation costs associated with the long-term incentive plan, which was partially offset by reduced expense attributable to adjusting contingent consideration to fair value.

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Comparison of the year ended December 31, 2020 versus the year ended December 31, 2019

Revenues

Revenues for the year ended December 31, 2020 increased by $483.9 million when compared to 2019. The increase in revenues was primarily due to the acquisitions of Seriously in July 2019, contributing an aggregate $93.5 of incremental revenues compared to the year ended December 31, 2019, combined with improved monetization and increased revenues from new content and product features across our broader portfolio of games when compared to 2019. The combination of the acquisitions and improvements to monetization, new content and product features drove an increase in both DAUs and DPUs. The increase in revenues generated from Direct-to-Consumer platforms as a percentage of total revenues resulted from marketing activities for the games offered through these platforms.

Cost of revenue

Cost of revenue for the year ended December 31, 2020 increased by $145.9 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2019. The increase in cost of revenue was primarily due to $24.0 million in incremental platform fees incurred by us related to the acquisition of Seriously, combined with increased platform fees that generally correspond with an increase in revenues. The increase in revenues generated from Direct-to-Consumer platforms as a percentage of total revenues resulted in a favorable impact on total platform fees, although this favorable impact was more than offset by increased amortization expense for intangible assets resulted from recent acquisitions.

Research and development expenses

Research and development expenses for the year ended December 31, 2020 increased by $58.4 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2019. The increase in research and development expenses was primarily due to $11.7 million in incremental expenses incurred by us related to the acquisition of Seriously, as well as increased headcount resulting from newly formed research and development operations in Romania and Switzerland and expansions of our existing research and development operations in the Ukraine, Belarus and Israel.

Sales and marketing expenses

Sales and marketing expenses for the year ended December 31, 2020 increased by $88.3 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2019. The increase in sales and marketing expenses was primarily due to approximately $30.8 million in incremental expenses incurred by us related to the acquisition of Seriously, as well as increased marketing expenses related to media buy expenses.

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General and administrative expenses

General and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2020 increased by $301.5 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2019. The increase in general and administrative expenses was primarily due to $276.0 million in stock-based compensation, a $37.6 million expense related to a litigation settlement, and $5.0 million in incremental expenses incurred by us related to the acquisition of Seriously, all of which have no comparable amounts in the prior period. This increase was partially offset by a $4.0 million lower expense associated with adjusting contingent consideration to fair value and lower recruiting expense in 2020 when compared to 2019.

Other Factors Affecting Net Income

Interest expense

Interest expense in both 2021 and 2020 is primarily related to amounts borrowed under the December 2019 Credit Facilities. Interest expense in 2019 is primarily related to funds borrowed in August 2019 under the Bridge Facility, and amounts borrowed under the December 2019 Credit Facilities. Prior to the August 2019 Bridge Facility transaction, interest expense was not material to the Company.

On March 11, 2021, the Company amended the Credit Agreement which, among other things, effected a refinancing of the Old Term Loan with a new $1.9 billion senior secured first lien term loan borrowed under the Credit Agreement. Also on March 11, 2021, the Company issued $600.0 million aggregate principal amount of its 4.250% senior notes due 2029 under an indenture, dated March 11, 2021. The combination of these two March 2021 transactions significantly reduced or average interest rates on our outstanding indebtedness, driving the decrease in interest expense in 2021 when compared with 2020.

Taxes on income

The provision for income tax was $99.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 and the effective income tax rate was 24.5%. The tax rate is affected by recurring items such as tax rates in foreign jurisdictions and the relative amounts of income earned in those jurisdictions and unrecognized tax benefits. It is also affected by items that are not consistent from year to year. Of these items, the primary difference related to the reversal of deferred tax liabilities due to the change in reinvestment assertion related to undistributed earnings of certain of our non-U.S. subsidiaries during the year.

The provision for income tax was $102.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 and the effective income tax rate was 52.6%. The difference between the effective income tax rate and the U.S. statutory tax rate was primarily due to recurring items such as tax rates in foreign jurisdictions and the relative amounts of income earned in those jurisdictions. In addition, the effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2020 was affected by significant non-deductible stock-based compensation expense for certain restricted stock units granted during the year ended December 31, 2020.

The provision for income tax was $147.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, and the effective income tax rate was 33.8%. The difference between the effective income tax rate and the U.S. statutory tax rate was primarily due to recurring items such as tax rates in foreign jurisdictions and the relative amounts of income earned in those jurisdictions. In addition, the effective tax rate for the year ended December 31,2019 was affected by the tax effects of recording a deferred tax liability due to the change in reinvestment assertion related to undistributed earnings of certain of our non-U.S. subsidiaries during the year.

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Prior to the second quarter of 2019, the Company considered the earnings in all its non-U.S. subsidiaries to be indefinitely reinvested and accordingly, recorded no deferred income taxes associated with such earnings. During the second quarter of 2019, the Company reevaluated its historic assertion and no longer considered the earnings of certain of its non-U.S. subsidiaries to be indefinitely reinvested since the cash generated from some of the foreign subsidiaries will be used to service debt in the United States. As a result of the change in assertion, the impact of a repatriation of the undistributed earnings resulted in recording a deferred tax liability consisting of potential withholding and distribution taxes of $41.7 million as of December 31, 2019. For the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company accrued an additional $4.5 million of deferred tax liability. Such deferred taxes were recognized as tax expense. As a result of the changes to the Credit Agreement, primarily a reduction in the interest rate, in addition to other considerations, the Company has reevaluated its assertion and now considers the earnings of all its non-U.S. subsidiaries to be indefinitely reinvested. For the year ended December 31, 2021, the Company reversed the previously accrued deferred tax liability and recognized $46.2 million of tax benefit.

Reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to net income

Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure and should not be construed as an alternative to net income as an indicator of operating performance, nor as an alternative to cash flow provided by operating activities as a measure of liquidity, or any other performance measure in each case as determined in accordance with GAAP.

Below is a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to net income, the closest GAAP financial measure. We define Adjusted EBITDA as net income before (i) interest expense, (ii) interest income, (iii) provision for income taxes, (iv) depreciation and amortization expense, (v) stock-based compensation, (vi) legal settlements, (vii) contingent consideration, (viii) acquisition and related expenses, (ix) expenses under our long-term compensation plan, (x) M&A related retention payments, and (xi) certain other items. We calculate Adjusted EBITDA Margin as Adjusted EBITDA divided by revenues.

We supplementally present Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin because these are key operating measures used by our management to assess our financial performance. Adjusted EBITDA adjusts for items that we believe do not reflect the ongoing operating performance of our business, such as certain noncash items, unusual or infrequent items or items that change from period to period without any material relevance to our operating performance. Management believes Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin are useful to investors and analysts in highlighting trends in our operating performance, while other measures can differ significantly depending on long-term strategic decisions regarding capital structure, the tax jurisdictions in which we operate and capital investments. Management uses Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin to supplement GAAP measures of performance in the evaluation of the effectiveness of our business strategies, to make budgeting decisions, and to compare our performance against other peer companies using similar measures. We evaluate Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin in conjunction with our results according to GAAP because we believe they provide investors and analysts a more complete understanding of factors and trends affecting our business than GAAP measures alone.

Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin as calculated herein may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies within the industry and are not determined in accordance with GAAP. Our presentation of Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin should not be construed as an inference that our future results will be unaffected by unusual or unexpected items.

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(1)    Reflects, for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, stock-based compensation expense related to the issuance of equity awards to certain of our employees.

(2)    Amounts for the year ended December 31, 2021 primarily relate to bonus expenses paid as a result of the successful initial public offering of the Company’s stock in January 2021 and the adjustment to contingent consideration payable recorded after the acquisition date. Amounts for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2020 include (i) contingent consideration payments with respect to our acquisitions of Seriously and Supertreat in 2019, and (ii) third-party fees for actual or planned acquisitions, including related legal, consulting and other expenditures.

(3)    Reflects a legal settlement expense of $37.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2020.

(4)    Includes expenses recognized for grants of annual cash awards to employees pursuant to our Retention Plans, which awards are incremental to salary and bonus payments, and which plans expire in 2024. For more information, see Note 15, Appreciation and Retention Plans, of our audited financial statements included in this document.

(5)    Includes retention awards to key individuals associated with acquired companies as an incentive to retain those individuals on a long-term basis for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020. For more information, see Note 15, Appreciation and Retention Plans, of our audited financial statements included in this document. For the year December 31, 2019, includes income from an early termination of a license agreement.

(6)    Includes business optimization expenses during the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020 and income from an early termination of a license agreement during the year ended December 31, 2019.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Capital spending

We incur capital expenditures in the normal course of business and perform ongoing enhancements and updates to our social and mobile games to maintain their quality standards. Cash used for capital expenditures in the normal course of business is typically made available from cash flows generated by operating activities. We may also pursue acquisition opportunities for additional businesses or social or mobile games that meet our strategic and return on investment criteria. Capital needs are evaluated on an individual investment basis and may require significant capital commitments.

Liquidity

Our primary sources of liquidity are the cash flows generated from our operations, currently available unrestricted cash and cash equivalents, short-term bank deposits, and borrowings under our Credit Facility and Revolver. Our cash and cash equivalents and short-term bank deposits totaled $1,117.1 million and $520.1 million at December 31, 2021 and

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December 31, 2020, respectively. As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, we had $600 million and $350 million in additional borrowing capacity pursuant to our Revolving Credit Facility, respectively. Payments of short-term debt obligations and other commitments are expected to be made from cash on the balance sheet and operating cash flows. Long-term obligations are expected to be paid through operating cash flows, or, if necessary, borrowings under our Revolving Credit facility or, if necessary, additional term loans or issuances of equity.

Our restricted cash totaled $2.0 million and $3.5 million at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively. Restricted cash primarily consists of deposits to secure obligations under our operating lease agreements and to secure company-issued credit cards. The classification of restricted cash as current and long-term is dependent upon the intended use of each particular reserve.

Our ability to fund our operations, pay our debt obligations and fund planned capital expenditures depends, in part, upon economic and other factors that are beyond our control, and disruptions in capital markets could impact our ability to secure additional funds through financing activities. We believe that our cash and cash equivalents balance, short-term bank deposits, restricted cash, borrowing capacity under our Revolving Credit Facility and our cash flows from operations will be sufficient to meet our normal operating requirements during the next 12 months and the foreseeable future and to fund capital expenditures.

Cash flows

The following tables present a summary of our cash flows for the periods indicated (in millions):

Operating activities

Net cash flows provided by operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2021 increased $34.0 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2020. Net cash flows provided by operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2020 increased $25.8 million when compared with the year ended December 31, 2019.

Net cash flow provided by operating activities for each period primarily consisted of net income generated during the period, exclusive of non-cash expenses such as depreciation, amortization and stock-based compensation, with changes in working capital impacted by normal timing differences.

Investing activities

Net cash flows used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2021 increased $511.3 million when compared to the year ended December 31, 2020 mainly due to $394.1 million of consideration paid (net of cash acquired) for the 2021 acquisition of Reworks.

Net cash flows used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2020 decreased $418.4 million when compared to the year ended December 31, 2019, due to $422.7 million of consideration paid for the acquisition of Supertreat and Seriously in 2019.

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Financing activities

Net cash flows used in financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2021 increased $741.0 million when compared to the year ended December 31, 2020. Financing activity cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2021 primarily relate to the Company’s initial public offering of its equity in January 2021, and the refinancing of its Old Term Loan (as defined below) in March 2021. Financing activity cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2020 primarily relate to repayments on the Company’s bank borrowings.

Financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2019, included a dividend distribution to our stockholder, proceeds from our Bridge Facility and our Term Loan, and repayment of our Bridge Facility.

Capital resources

On December 10, 2019, we entered into $2,750 million of senior secured credit facilities (the “Credit Facilities”), consisting of a $250 million revolving credit facility (the “Revolving Credit Facility”), and a $2,500 million first lien term loan (the “Old Term Loan”). The Credit Facilities were provided pursuant to the Credit Agreement, dated as of December 10, 2019, by and among Playtika, the lenders party thereto, and Credit Suisse, AG, Cayman Islands Branch, as administrative agent (in such capacity, the "Administrative Agent") and collateral agent (in such capacity, the "Collateral Agent"). Proceeds borrowed under the Credit Facilities on the closing date were used to pay off the outstanding balance on our prior debt facility. On June 15, 2020, we increased the capacity of the Revolving Credit Facility to $350 million. On January 15, 2021, we increased the borrowing capacity of the Revolving Credit Facility from $350 million to $550 million.

On March 11, 2021, the Credit Agreement was amended pursuant to an Incremental Assumption Agreement No. 3 and Second Amendment to Credit Agreement (the “Second Amendment”).

The Second Amendment, among other things, effected a refinancing of Old Term Loan with a new $1.9 billion senior secured first lien term loan borrowed under the Credit Agreement (the “New Term Loan”), increased the Revolving Credit Facility to $600 million and extended the maturity of the Revolving Credit Facility to March 11, 2026. The New Term Loan matures on March 11, 2028 and requires scheduled quarterly principal payments in amounts equal to 0.25% of the original aggregate principal amount of the New Term Loan, with the balance due at maturity.

Also on March 11, 2021, we issued $600.0 million aggregate principal amount of our 4.250% senior notes due 2029 (the “Notes”). The Notes mature on March 15, 2029. Interest on the Notes will accrue at a rate of 4.250% per annum. Interest on the Notes is payable semi-annually in cash in arrears on March 15 and September 15 of each year, commencing on September 15, 2021.

Significant terms of the Credit Facilities, the New Term Loan and the Notes, including balances outstanding, interest and fees, mandatory and voluntary prepayment requirements, collateral and guarantors and restrictive covenants are detailed in Note 9, Debt, to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

Critical accounting policies and estimates

We prepare our financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP.

Certain accounting policies require that we apply significant judgment in defining the appropriate assumptions for calculating financial estimates. By their nature, these judgments will be subject to an inherent degree of uncertainty. Our judgments are based upon our management’s historical experience, terms of existing contracts, observance of trends in the industry, information provided by our customers and information available from other outside sources, as appropriate.

We consider accounting estimates to be critical accounting policies when:

•the estimates involve matters that are highly uncertain at the time the accounting estimate is made; and

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•different estimates or changes to estimates could have a material impact on the reported financial positions, changes in financial position or results of operations.

When more than one accounting principle, or method of its application, is generally accepted, we select the principle or method that we consider to be the most appropriate when given the specific circumstances. Application of these accounting principles requires us to make estimates about the future resolution of existing uncertainties. Due to the inherent uncertainty involving estimates, actual results reported in the future may differ from such estimates. For additional information on our significant accounting policies, please refer to Note 1, Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, to the financial statements included elsewhere in this filing.

Business combinations

We apply the provisions of ASC 805, Business Combination and allocates the fair value of purchase consideration to the tangible assets acquired, liabilities assumed, and intangible assets acquired based on their estimated fair values. The excess of the fair value of purchase consideration over the fair values of these identifiable assets and liabilities is recorded as goodwill. When determining the fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed, management makes significant estimates and assumptions, especially with respect to intangible assets.

Significant estimates in valuing certain intangible assets include, but are not limited to, future expected cash flows from acquired technology and acquired trademarks and user base from a market participant perspective, useful lives and discount rates. Management’s estimates of fair value are based upon assumptions believed to be reasonable, but which are inherently uncertain and unpredictable and, as a result, actual results may differ from estimates.

Software development costs

We review internal use software development cost associated with infrastructure and new games or updates to existing games to determine if the costs qualify for capitalizing. The development costs incurred during the application development stage that are related to infrastructure are capitalized. Internal use software is included in intangible assets other than goodwill, net in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Capitalization of such costs begins when the preliminary project stage is completed and ceases at the point in which the project is substantially complete and is ready for its intended purpose. With respect to new games or updates to existing games, the preliminary project stage remains ongoing until just prior to worldwide launch. The development costs related to new games or updates to existing games are expensed as incurred to research and development in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.

Goodwill

The purchase price of an acquisition is allocated to the underlying assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon their estimated fair values at the date of acquisition. We determine the estimated fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed after review and consideration of relevant information including discounted cash flows, quoted market prices, and estimates made by management. To the extent the purchase price exceeds the fair value of the net identifiable tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed, such excess is recorded as goodwill. Under ASC 350, Intangible—Goodwill and Other, goodwill is not amortized, but rather is subject to an annual impairment test.

We test goodwill for impairment as of October 1st of each year, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that this asset may be impaired. For the purposes of impairment testing, we have determined that we have one reporting unit. When performing the annual goodwill impairment testing, we either conduct a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is more likely than not that the asset is impaired, or we elect to bypass this qualitative assessment and perform a quantitative test for impairment.

Under the qualitative assessment, we consider both positive and negative factors, including macroeconomic conditions, industry events, financial performance and other changes, and makes a determination of whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of goodwill is less than its carrying amount. If, after assessing the qualitative factors, we determine it is more likely than not the asset is impaired, we then perform a quantitative test in which the estimated fair value of the reporting unit is compared with its carrying amount, including goodwill.

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If a quantitative analysis is necessary, we compare the fair value of our reporting unit to our carrying value. We determine the estimated fair value based on a combination of EBITDA and estimated future cash flows discounted at rates commensurate with the capital structure and cost of capital of comparable market participants, giving appropriate consideration to the prevailing borrowing rates within the industry in general. EBITDA multiples and discounted cash flows are common measures used to value businesses in our industry.

If the estimated fair value exceeds carrying value, goodwill is considered not to be impaired and no additional steps are necessary. However, if the carrying amount exceeds estimated fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to the excess, limited to the amount of goodwill allocated to the reporting unit.

The annual evaluation of goodwill requires the use of estimates about future operating results, valuation multiples, and discount rates to determine their fair value. Changes in these assumptions can materially affect these estimates. Thus, to the extent the revenues volumes deteriorate in the near future, discount rates increase significantly, or we do not meet our projected performance, we could have impairments to record in the next twelve months, and such impairments could be material.

Revenue recognition

We primarily derive revenues from the sale of virtual items associated with online games. We distribute our games to the end customer through various web and mobile platforms such as Apple, Facebook, Google, and other web and mobile platforms. Through these platforms, users can download our free-to-play games and can purchase virtual currency which is redeemed in the game for virtual goods, or players can purchase virtual goods directly (collectively referred to as virtual items) to enhance their game-playing experience.

The initial download of the games does not create a contract under ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, or ASC 606; however, the separate election by the player to make an in-application purchase satisfies the ASC 606 criterion for creating a contract.

Players can pay for their virtual item purchases through various widely accepted payment methods offered in the games. Payments from players for virtual items are required at the time of purchase, are non-refundable and relate to non-cancellable contracts that specify our obligations and cannot be redeemed for cash nor exchanged for anything other than virtual items within our games. The purchase price is a fixed amount which reflects the consideration that we expect to be entitled to receive in exchange for use of virtual items by our customers. The platform providers collect proceeds from the game players and remit the proceeds to us after deducting their respective platform fees.

We are primarily responsible for providing the virtual items, have control over the content and functionality of games and have the discretion to establish the virtual items’ prices. Therefore, we are the principal and, accordingly revenues are recorded on a gross basis. Payment processing fees paid to platform providers are recorded within cost of revenue. Our performance obligation is to display the virtual items within the game over the estimated life of the paying player or until the virtual item is consumed in game play based upon the nature of the virtual item.

We categorize our virtual items as either consumable or durable. The substantial majority of our games sell only consumable virtual items. Consumable virtual items represent items that can be consumed by a specific player action and do not provide the player any continuing benefit following consumption. For the sale of consumable virtual items, we recognize revenues as the items are consumed (i.e. over time) which is usually up to one month. We have determined through a review of game play behavior that players generally do not purchase additional virtual currency until their existing virtual currency balances have been substantially consumed. This review, performed on a game-by-game basis, includes an analysis of game players’ historical play behavior, purchase behavior, and the amount of virtual currency outstanding. Based upon this analysis, we have estimated the rate at which virtual currency is consumed during game play within each game. Accordingly, revenues are recognized using a user-based revenue model using these estimated consumption rates. We monitor our analysis of customer play behavior on a quarterly basis.

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Durable virtual items represent items that are accessible to the player over an extended period of time. We sell durable virtual items primarily through games acquired in recent acquisitions. We recognize revenues from the sale of durable virtual items ratably over the estimated average life of the paying player, which is estimated on a game-by-game basis and generally ranges from three months up to one year. We estimate the average life of the paying player based on historical paying player patterns and playing behaviors within each of the specific games that offer durable virtual items. We monitor our operational data and player patterns and re-assess our estimates on a quarterly basis.

Deferred revenues, which represent a contract liability, represent mostly unrecognized fees collected for virtual items which are not consumed at the balance sheets date, or for players that are still active in the games.

Sales and other taxes collected from customers on behalf of governmental authorities are accounted for on a net basis and are not included in revenues or operating expenses.

We also have relationships with certain advertising service providers for advertisements within our games and revenues from these advertising providers is generated through impressions, clickthroughs, banner ads and offers. We have determined that displaying the advertisements within the mobile games is identified as a single performance obligation. The transaction price in advertising arrangements is established by our advertising service providers and is generally the product of the number of advertising units delivered (e.g. impressions, offers completed, etc.) and the contractually agreed upon price per unit. Revenues from advertisements and offers are recognized at a point-in-time when the advertisements are displayed in the game or the offer has been completed by the user as the customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits provided from these services. We have determined that we are generally acting as an agent in our advertising arrangements as the advertising service providers maintain the relationship with the customers, control the pricing of the advertising such that we do not know the total price paid by the customer to the service providers, and control the advertising product through the time the advertisements are displayed in our games. Therefore, we recognize revenues related to these arrangements on a net basis.

Stock-based compensation

Common stock valuation

Prior to our initial public offering of equity in January 2021, we, with the assistance of third-party valuation experts, used a combination of the income approach (the discounted cash flow method) and the market approach (a combination of the guideline public company method and the guideline transaction method) to estimate our equity value in connection with our stock-based compensation program discussed below. The income approach involves applying an appropriate risk-adjusted discount rate to projected cash flows based on forecasted revenue and costs. The guideline public company method estimates the value of a company by applying market multiples of publicly traded companies in the same or similar lines of business to the results and projected results of the company being valued. The guideline transaction method estimates the value of a company by applying valuation multiples paid in actual transactions for comparable public and private companies.

The valuation of the our equity considers a number of objective and subjective factors that we believe market participants would consider, including (a) the our business, financial condition, and results of operations, including related industry trends affecting our operations; (b) our forecasted operating performance and projected future cash flows; (c) the liquid or illiquid nature of our common stock; (d) the rights and privileges of our common stock; (e) market multiples of our most comparable public peers; and (f) market conditions affecting our industry.

As of the valuation date, financial forecasts were prepared and used in the computation of the estimated fair value of our equity using both the market and income approaches. The financial forecasts were based on assumed revenue growth rates and operating margin levels that considered past experience and future expectations. The assumed risks associated with achieving these forecasts were assessed in selecting the appropriate cost of capital rates.

The values derived under the market and income approaches were used to determine an initial estimated fair market value of our equity. The initial estimated value was then subjected to a discount for the lack of marketability based on the impediments to liquidity as a result of our previous status as a private company, including the lack of publicly available information and the lack of a trading market.

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Subsequent to our initial public offering of equity in January 2021, we use the public trading price of our common stock on the Nasdaq stock exchange as the basis for determining the fair market value for our common stock for purposes of our stock-based compensation expense.

There is inherent uncertainty in our forecasts and projections, and if different assumptions and estimates had been made than those described previously, the amount of the equity valuation and stock-based compensation expense could have been materially different.

Options granted on June 26, 2020 had an exercise price equal to the estimated fair value of our common stock as determined by our valuation as of June 26, 2020. The valuation used a non-marketability discount of 10%.

Stock-based compensation expense

We have a stock-based compensation program, which provides for equity awards including stock options and time-based RSUs. Stock-based compensation expense is measured at the grant date, based on the estimated fair value of the award, and is recognized as expense over the requisite service period for the award. We record forfeitures as a reduction of stock-based compensation expense as those forfeitures occur.

We used the Black-Scholes option pricing model to estimate the fair value and compensation cost associated with employee incentive stock options. As we do not have a sufficient history of market prices for our common stock because the stock was not publicly traded prior to January 2021, we used observable data for a group of peer companies that grant options with substantially similar terms to assist in developing our pre-IPO volatility assumption. The expected volatility of the stock was determined using weighted average measures of the implied volatility and the historical volatility for our peer group of companies for a period equal to the expected life of the option. The expected term assumption was derived using the simplified method, which is based on an average between the vesting date and the expiration date of an option. This method was chosen because there was no historical option exercise experience due to us being privately held. The weighted-average risk-free interest rate was based on the interest rate for U.S. Treasury bonds. We do not anticipate paying cash dividends on our shares of common stock in the future. The stock options have a contractual term of 10 years. Except as provided in an option agreement between us and the employee, if an employee is terminated (voluntarily or involuntarily), any unvested awards as of the date of termination will be forfeited.

If factors change and we employ different assumptions, stock-based compensation cost on future awards may differ significantly from what we have recorded in the past. Lower volatility and shorter expected terms or higher volatility and longer expected terms result in a decrease or increase, respectively, to stock-based compensation determined at the date of grant. Future stock-based compensation cost and unrecognized stock-based compensation will increase to the extent that we grant additional equity awards to employees or assume unvested equity awards in connection with acquisitions. If there are any modifications or cancellations of the underlying unvested securities, we may be required to accelerate any remaining unearned stock-based compensation cost or incur incremental cost.

Our stock-based compensation expense is recorded in the financial statement line items relevant to each of the award recipients. See Note 10, Equity Transactions and Stock Incentive Plan, in the accompanying audited consolidated financial statements for the three years ended December 31, 2021 for additional discussion.

Derivative Instruments

We use interest rate swap contracts to reduce our exposure to fluctuating interest rates associated with our variable rate debt, and to effectively increase the portion of debt upon which we pay a fixed interest rate. Our interest rate swap agreements are designated as cash flow hedges under ASC 815. These hedges are highly effective in offsetting changes in our future expected cash flows due to the fluctuation on the one-month LIBOR rate associated with our variable rate debt. Interest rate swap is designated as a cash flow hedge involving the receipt of variable amounts from a counterparty in exchange for us making fixed-rate payments over the life of the agreement, without the exchange of the underlying notional amount.

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We monitor the effectiveness of our hedges on a quarterly basis, both qualitatively and quantitatively. We performed a regression analysis at inception of the hedging relationship and at period end in which we compared the change in the fair value of the swap transaction and the change in fair value of a hypothetical interest rate swap having terms that identically match the terms of the debt's interest rate payments based on 30 observations that are based on historical swap rates. Based on the regression results, we believe that, at inception and at period end, the hedging instrument is expected to be highly effective at offsetting changes in the hedged transactions attributable to the risk being hedged. For each future reporting period, we will continue performing retrospective and prospective assessments of hedge effectiveness in a single regression analysis by updating the regression analysis that was prepared at inception of the hedging relationship.

We use foreign currency derivative contracts to reduce our exposure to fluctuating exchange rates between the United States dollar (as our functional currency) and certain revenue or expense lines denominated in Israeli Shekels (“ILS”), Polish Zloty (“PLN”) and Romanian Leu (“RON”). Our derivative contracts are designated as cash flow hedges under ASC 815. We expect these hedges to remain highly effective at offsetting fluctuations in exchange rates through their respective maturity dates.

The fair value of derivative financial instruments is recognized as an asset or liability at each balance sheet date, with changes in fair value recorded in other comprehensive income on the consolidated statements of comprehensive income until the future underlying transactions occur. The fair value approximates the amount we would pay if these contracts were settled at the respective valuation dates. The inputs used to measure the fair value of our interest rate swap agreements are categorized as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy as established by ASC 820. The inputs used to measure the fair value of our derivative contracts are categorized as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy as established by ASC 820.

Income taxes

We record income taxes under the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes pursuant to ASC 740, Income Taxes. Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. Deferred income taxes are determined using enacted tax rates that are expected to be effect in the year in which the deferred tax asset or liability is to be realized or settled.

We reduce the carrying amounts of deferred tax assets by a valuation allowance if, based on the available evidence, it is more likely than not that such assets will not be realized. Accordingly, the need to establish valuation allowances for deferred tax assets is assessed periodically based on the more likely than not realization threshold. This assessment considers, among other matters, the nature, frequency and severity of current and cumulative losses, forecasts of future profitability, the duration of statutory carryforward periods, our experience with operating loss and tax credit carryforwards expiring unused and tax planning alternatives.

We implement a two-step approach to recognize and measure uncertain tax positions. The first step is to evaluate the tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return by determining if the weight of available evidence indicates that it is more likely than not that, on an evaluation of the technical merits, the tax position will be sustained on audit, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes. The second step is to measure the tax benefit as the largest amount that is more than 50% likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement.

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (“TCJA”) subjects a U.S. shareholder to tax on global intangible low-taxed income (“GILTI”) earned by certain foreign subsidiaries. We can make an accounting policy election to either treat taxes due on the GILTI inclusion as a current period expense or factor such amounts into the measurement of deferred taxes. We elected to account for the income tax effects of GILTI as a “period cost,” or an income tax expense in the year the tax is incurred.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

See Note 1, Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, to our audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this filing for a description of recently adopted accounting pronouncements and recently issued accounting pronouncements not yet adopted as of the date of this filing.

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