Global gaming equipment stocks took a hit last month. The AGEM Index plunged 4 percent to 1,831.68, shedding 75.93 points from November levels. Seven of ten major suppliers saw shares fall, led by sharp drops at Konami and Crane NXT. Yet the index sits 17 percent higher than a year ago.
The Association of Gaming Equipment Manufacturers tracks these stocks each month. In December 2025, bad news dominated. Konami Corp shares tumbled 10.5 percent, wiping out 64.20 points from the index alone.
Crane NXT Co felt the pain too. Its stock plunged 16.4 percent, costing the index 14.12 points. Seven firms in total posted losses, overwhelming gains from the rest.
This marked the biggest monthly drop since early 2025. Investors watched closely as casino gear makers faced headwinds.
Here is a quick look at top movers:
| Company | Stock Change | Index Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Konami Corp | -10.5% | -64.20 pts |
| Crane NXT Co | -16.4% | -14.12 pts |
| Light & Wonder | +3.0% | +8.01 pts |
Light & Wonder Shines Through
Not all news proved grim. Light & Wonder Inc stood out with a 3 percent stock rise. That added 8.01 points to the index, its best mark in the group.
Two other companies also gained ground. Their efforts softened the blow but could not offset the seven losers.
Yearly Strength Bucked the Trend
Step back for the big picture. The AGEM Index ended 2025 far stronger than it started. It climbed 17.1 percent from December 2024, up 266.86 points overall.
Earlier months showed ups and downs. November dipped 1.5 percent. Yet gains in spring and summer fueled the annual surge.
This resilience points to solid demand. Casinos worldwide keep buying slots, tables, and tech from these suppliers.
Factors Behind the Supplier Slide
Broader markets played a role. In December, the NASDAQ fell 0.5 percent. The S&P 500 edged down 0.1 percent. Only the Dow rose, up 0.7 percent.
Company troubles added fuel. Konami’s casino unit saw profits drop 60 percent in early 2025 due to tough markets. That shadow lingered into year-end.
Crane NXT faced analyst cuts. Firms like Baird lowered targets despite steady earnings. Shares slid 15 percent in late December alone.
Other pressures hit too:
- Slow casino spending in key spots like Asia.
- Rising costs for parts and labor.
- Investor caution over economic slowdowns.
These forces squeezed margins. Suppliers now eye 2026 for recovery signs.
The gaming gear world thrives on casino booms. Tribal venues in the US and resorts abroad drive orders. But monthly swings remind everyone of stock risks.
For everyday investors, this means watching closely. A dip like December tests nerves but opens buy chances if yearly trends hold.
Despite the stumble, the sector pulses with life. Global casinos expand, from Las Vegas towers to Macau floors. Suppliers like these ten firms power that growth, blending tech and entertainment.
Strong yearly gains signal more to come. Watch for earnings reports soon. They could spark a rebound.
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