10-K 1 plya2018ye10-k.htm FORM 10-K Document
 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
___________________________________________________
FORM 10-K
 _______________________________________________
ý
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018

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

COMMISSION FILE NO. 001-38012
 Playa Hotels & Resorts N.V.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
The Netherlands
 
98-1346104
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
 
(IRS Employer Identification Number)
 
 
 
Prins Bernhardplein 200
 
 
1097 JB Amsterdam, the Netherlands
 
Not Applicable
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
 
(Zip Code)
+31 20 521 49 62
(Registrant's Telephone Number, Including Area Code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of Each Class
 
Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
Ordinary Shares, €0.10 par value
 
NASDAQ
 
 
 
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.      YES  o    NO  ý 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.   YES  o    NO  ý  
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports) and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past ninety (90) days.    YES  ý      NO  o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files).    YES  ý      NO  o

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§ 229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. ý

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
 
Large accelerated filer
o
 
Accelerated filer
ý
 
 
Non-accelerated filer  
o
 
Smaller reporting company         
o
 
 
 
 
 
Emerging growth company
ý
 

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.  ý  

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).    YES  o    NO  ý  



As of June 30, 2018, the aggregate market value of the registrant's ordinary shares, €0.10 par value, held by non-affiliates of the registrant was approximately $609.3 million (based upon the closing sale price of the registrant's ordinary shares on June 29, 2018 on the NASDAQ).

As of February 22, 2019, there were 130,501,941 shares of the registrant’s ordinary shares, €0.10 par value, outstanding.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K incorporates by reference portions of the registrant's Proxy Statement for its 2019 annual general meeting of shareholders to be held on May 16, 2019.





Playa Hotels & Resorts N.V.
TABLE OF CONTENTS FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018
 
 
Page
Item 1.
Item 1A.
Item 1B.
Item 2.
Item 3.
Item 4.
Item 5.
Item 6.
Item 7.
Item 7A.
Item 8.
Item 9.
Item 9A.
Item 9B.
Item 10.
Item 11.
Item 12.
Item 13.
Item 14.
Item 15.
Item 16.
 




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FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This annual report contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements relate to expectations, beliefs, projections, future plans and strategies, anticipated events or trends and similar expressions concerning matters that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements reflect our current views with respect to, among other things, our capital resources, portfolio performance and results of operations. Likewise, all of our statements regarding anticipated growth in our operations, anticipated market conditions, demographics and results of operations are forward-looking statements. In some cases, you can identify these forward-looking statements by the use of terminology such as “outlook,” “believes,” “expects,” “potential,” “continues,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “seeks,” “approximately,” “predicts,” “intends,” “plans,” “estimates,” “anticipates” or the negative version of these words or other comparable words or phrases.
The forward-looking statements contained in this annual report reflect our current views about future events and are subject to numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and changes in circumstances that may cause our actual results to differ significantly from those expressed in any forward-looking statement. The following factors, among others, could cause actual results and future events to differ materially from those set forth or contemplated in the forward-looking statements:
•
general economic uncertainty and the effect of general economic conditions on the lodging industry in particular;
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the popularity of the all-inclusive resort model, particularly in the luxury segment of the resort market;
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changes in economic, social or political conditions in the regions we operate, including changes in perception of public-safety and changes in the supply of rooms from competing resorts;
•
the success and continuation of our relationships with Hyatt Hotels Corporation (“Hyatt”) and Hilton Worldwide Holdings, Inc. (“Hilton”);
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the volatility of currency exchange rates;
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the success of our branding or rebranding initiatives with our current portfolio and resorts that may be acquired in the future, including the recent rebranding of two of our resorts under the all-inclusive “Hilton” brand and rebranding of certain resorts recently acquired from Sagicor (as defined below) in Jamaica;
•
our failure to successfully complete acquisition, expansion, repair and renovation projects in the timeframes and at the costs and returns anticipated;
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changes we may make in timing and scope of our development and renovation projects;
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significant increases in construction and development costs;
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significant increases in the cost of utilities;
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our ability to obtain and maintain financing arrangements on attractive terms;
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the impact of and changes in governmental regulations or the enforcement thereof, tax laws and rates, accounting guidance and similar matters in regions in which we operate;
•
the effectiveness of our internal controls and our corporate policies and procedures and the success and timing of the remediation efforts for the material weakness that we identified in our internal control over financial reporting;
•
changes in personnel and availability of qualified personnel;
•
environmental uncertainties and risks related to adverse weather conditions and natural disasters;
•
dependence on third parties to provide Internet, telecommunications and network connectivity to our data centers;
•
the volatility of the market price and liquidity of our ordinary shares and other of our securities; and
•
the increasingly competitive environment in which we operate.
 

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While forward-looking statements reflect our good faith beliefs, they are not guarantees of future performance. The Company disclaims any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement to reflect changes in underlying assumptions or factors, new information, data or methods, future events or other changes after the date of this annual report, except as required by applicable law. You should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which are based only on information currently available to us (or to third parties making the forward-looking statements).

Unless the context requires otherwise, in this annual report, we use the terms “the Company,” “Playa,” “our company,” “we,” “us,” “our” and similar references to refer to Playa Hotels & Resorts N.V., a Dutch public limited liability company (naamloze vennootschap), and, where appropriate, its subsidiaries.
Explanatory Note
At 12:00 a.m. Central European Time on March 12, 2017 (the “Closing Time”), we consummated a business combination (the “Pace Business Combination”) pursuant to a transaction agreement by and among us, Playa Hotels & Resorts B.V. (our “Predecessor”) and Pace Holdings Corp. (“Pace”), an entity that was formed as a special purpose acquisition company, for the purpose of effecting a merger or other similar business combination with one or more target businesses, and New Pace Holdings Corp. In connection with the Pace Business Combination, which is described in detail in our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on March 14, 2017, we changed our name from Porto Holdco N.V. to Playa Hotels & Resorts N.V. In addition, in connection with the Pace Business Combination, (i) prior to the consummation of the Pace Business Combination, all of our Predecessor's cumulative redeemable preferred shares were purchased and were subsequently extinguished upon the reverse merger of our Predecessor with and into us, and (ii) Pace's former shareholders and our Predecessor's former shareholders received a combination of our ordinary shares and warrants as consideration in the Pace Business Combination. Our Predecessor was the accounting acquirer in the Pace Business Combination, and the business, properties, and management team of our Predecessor prior to the Pace Business Combination are the business, properties, and management team of the Company following the Pace Business Combination.
Our financial statements, other financial information and operating statistics presented in this Form 10-K reflect the results of our Predecessor for all periods prior to the Closing Time. Our financial statements and other financial information also include the consolidation of Pace from the Closing Time of the Pace Business Combination to December 31, 2018.
 
On June 1, 2018, we completed a business combination with certain companies affiliated with Sagicor Group Jamaica Limited (collectively “Sagicor”) whereby Sagicor contributed to us a portfolio of five all-inclusive resorts, two adjacent oceanfront developable land sites with a potential density of up to 700 rooms and all of Sagicor's rights to “The Jewel” hotel brand (collectively the “Sagicor Assets”). The resorts included in the portfolio consist of the 495-room Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa, the 268-room Jewel Runaway Bay Beach & Golf Resort, the 250-room Jewel Dunn’s River Beach Resort & Spa, the 225-room Jewel Paradise Cove Beach Resort & Spa and the 217-room Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa (where we own 88 rooms and manage 129 rooms). Previously, the resorts we acquired from Sagicor were managed by an external third-party but we assumed management of these resorts upon the closing of the transaction. Consideration for the Sagicor Assets consisted of 20,000,000 of our ordinary shares and $93.1 million in cash. In addition, two individuals nominated by Sagicor joined Playa’s Board of Directors upon the consummation of the transaction.

Our financial statements and other financial information include the consolidation of the Sagicor Assets from June 2, 2018 to December 31, 2018.



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PART I
Item 1. Business.
Overview

Playa is a leading owner, operator and developer of all-inclusive resorts in prime beachfront locations in popular vacation destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean. As of December 31, 2018, we owned and/or managed a total portfolio consisting of 21 resorts (7,908 rooms) located in Mexico, Jamaica and the Dominican Republic. Playa’s strategy is to leverage its globally recognized brand partnerships in order to capitalize on the gap between the 14% U.S. brand affiliated room supply in the regions in which we operate and the nearly 45% of visitors that come from the U.S. This strategy should drive outsized returns for our shareholders and enhance the lives of our associates and the communities in which we operate.

We believe that the resorts we own and manage are among the finest all-inclusive resorts in the markets they serve. We believe that our resorts have a competitive advantage due to their location, brand affiliations, extensive amenities, scale and design. Our portfolio is comprised of all-inclusive resorts that share some combination of the following characteristics:
•
Prime beachfront locations;
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Globally recognized U.S. brand partners;
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Convenient air access from a number of North American and other international gateway markets;
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Strategic locations in popular vacation destinations in countries with strong government commitments to tourism;
•
High quality physical condition; and
•
Capacity for further revenues and earnings growth through incremental renovation or repositioning opportunities.

Our all-inclusive resorts provide guests an attractive vacation experience that offers both compelling value and price certainty, while at the same time providing Playa more predictable revenue, expense and occupancy rates than traditional full-service hotel business models. All-inclusive guests book and pay further in advance, resulting in lower cancellation rates and incremental sales of upgrades, premium services and amenities not included in the all-inclusive package pricing.  

We have strategic relationships with both Hyatt and Hilton, two of the preeminent globally recognized hotel brands. Hyatt’s and Hilton’s selection of Playa as its strategic partner in the development and management of all-inclusive resorts throughout the Caribbean, Mexico and Latin America reflects their confidence and conviction in Playa’s best-in-class stewardship of all-inclusive resorts and provides us with unique advantages, including the following:
•
Access to worldwide reservation systems, global marketing scale, and approximately 100 million hotel loyalty members to drive revenue growth;
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Higher propensity for guests to book direct, which results in significantly improved returns over bookings from online travel agents;
•
Lower customer acquisition costs, and higher net Average Daily Rates (ADRs);
•
Higher Net Asset value for branded hotels affiliated with global franchisors;
•
Lower cost of financing for properties affiliated with top tier brands;
•
Brand partners are a second set of eyes, focused on maximizing returns;
•
Immediate customer recognition for a new or converted resort;
•
Exposure to new consumers, who may not be familiar with the all-inclusive model;
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Access to guests from different regions, creating a better segmentation mix, reducing the risk from an owner’s perspective;
•
Stronger marketing and public relations presence;
•
Brands are proven to reduce price sensitivity and encourage purchase decisions, resulting in higher revenues;
•
Branded resorts, on average, have higher occupancy than non-branded resorts;
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Branded resorts have higher rates of group business; and
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Branded resorts have lower failure rates.


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We have also entered into an exclusive agreement with Panama Jack that provides us with the right to develop and own and/or manage all-inclusive resorts under the Panama Jack brand in certain regions. We also own and operate five resorts in Jamaica that we acquired from Sagicor in June 2018, four of which are operated under the Jewel brand. Other brands in our portfolio include: Dreams, Sanctuary, and Secrets.

We consider each of our hotels to be an operating segment, none of which meets the threshold for a reportable segment. For further discussion about our operating segments and financial information about the geographic regions in which we operate, please see Segment Results in Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and Note 19 to the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements.
Our Competitive Strengths
We believe the following competitive strengths distinguish us from other owners, operators, developers and acquirers of all-inclusive resorts:
•
Premier Collection of All-Inclusive Resorts in Highly Desirable Locations. We believe that our portfolio represents a premier collection of all-inclusive resorts. Our award-winning resorts are located in prime beachfront locations in popular vacation destinations, including Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Vallarta and Los Cabos in Mexico, Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic and Montego Bay in Jamaica. Guests may conveniently access our resorts from a number of North American and other international gateway markets.
•
Diversified Portfolio of All-Inclusive Resorts. We currently offer our guests resorts located in four main geographic markets and across a number of price points. This diversity helps to foster loyalty among our guests and to drive repeat business. As of December 31, 2018, we operated resorts under eight brands. Having multiple brands to offer owners and developers is essential to our ability to secure management agreements and high-return acquisitions since having a family of brands mitigates the risks of brand-on-brand supply growth and subsequent cannibalization.
•
Exclusive Focus on the All-Inclusive Model. We believe the all-inclusive resort model is increasing in popularity as more people come to appreciate the benefits of a high-quality vacation experience that couples value and a high degree of cost certainty. Because our guests have pre-purchased their vacation packages, we also have the opportunity to earn incremental revenue if our guests purchase upgrades, premium services and amenities that are not included in the all-inclusive package.
•
Integrated and Scalable Operating Platform. We believe we have developed a scalable resort management platform designed to improve operating efficiency at the 17 resorts we currently manage. Our platform enables us to integrate additional resorts we may acquire, manage hotels owned by third-parties and potentially internalize the management of the four resorts we own, but do not manage. Our platform also enables managers of each of our key functions, including sales, marketing and resort management, to observe, analyze, share and respond to trends throughout our portfolio. As a result, we are able to implement management initiatives on a real-time and portfolio-wide basis.
•
Strategic Relationship with Hyatt to Develop All-Inclusive Resorts. Our strategic relationship with Hyatt, which indirectly beneficially owned approximately 9.2% of our ordinary shares as of December 31, 2018, provides us with a range of benefits, including the right to operate certain of our existing resorts under the Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara brands (the “Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brands”) in certain countries and, through December 31, 2021, certain rights with respect to the development and management of future Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brands resorts in Mexico, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica and Panama (the “Market Area”).
The Hyatt Ziva brand is marketed as an all-inclusive resort brand for all-ages and the Hyatt Zilara brand is marketed as an all-inclusive resort brand for adults-only. We believe these brands are currently Hyatt’s primary vehicle for all-inclusive resort growth and demonstrate Hyatt’s commitment to the all-inclusive model. The Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brands have access to Hyatt’s low cost and high margin distribution channels, such as Hyatt guests using the World of Hyatt® guest loyalty program (which had approximately 16 million members as of December 31, 2018), Hyatt’s reservation system, Hyatt's mobile application and website and Hyatt’s extensive group sales business. We believe that our strategic relationship with Hyatt and the increasing awareness of our all-inclusive resort brands among potential guests will enable us to increase the number of bookings made through lower cost sales channels, such as direct bookings through Hyatt and our company and resort websites.
•
Strategic Relationship with Hilton to Develop All-Inclusive Resorts. Our newly-formed strategic alliance with Hilton affords us with the opportunity to leverage our management expertise and obtain access to Hilton's global portfolio of

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brands and over 85 million Hilton Honors members as of December 31, 2018. During 2018, we successfully converted two of our resorts into three Hilton all-inclusive resorts, with the potential to convert, develop or manage up to an additional eight resorts in certain locations in the Caribbean, Mexico, and South and Central America by 2025. Our strategic alliance with Hilton further diversifies our portfolio, enables us to reach more potential guests and greatly reduces our customer acquisition costs.
•
Experienced Leadership with a Proven Track Record. Our senior management team has significant experience in the lodging industry, including operating all-inclusive resorts.
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Mr. Wardinski, our Chief Executive Officer has over 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, founded our Predecessor and previously was the Chief Executive Officer of two lodging companies: Barceló Crestline Corporation, an independent hotel owner, lessee and manager; and Crestline Capital Corporation, a New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) listed hotel owner, lessee and manager. Mr. Wardinski was also the non-executive chairman of the board of directors of Highland Hospitality Corporation, an NYSE-listed owner of upscale full-service, premium limited-service and extended-stay properties. Mr. Wardinski held other leadership roles within the industry including Senior Vice President and Treasurer of Host Marriott Corporation (now Host Hotels and Resorts (NYSE: HST)) and various roles with Marriott International, Inc. As of December 31, 2018, approximately 1.9% of our outstanding ordinary shares are beneficially owned by Mr. Wardinski.
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Mr. Stadlin, our Chief Operating Officer and Chief Executive Officer of our resort management company, has over 40 years of experience in the hospitality industry and was employed by Marriott International, Inc. for 33 years during which he spent 12 years working on its expansion into Latin America.
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Mr. Froemming, our Chief Marketing Officer, has over 22 years of experience in the hospitality industry and spent 10 years as the sales and marketing leader of Sandals Resorts International, leading the growth of its two well-known all-inclusive brands, Sandals and Beaches.
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Mr. Hymel, our Chief Financial Officer, has over 16 years of experience working within the hospitality sector. He previously served as Senior Vice President and Treasurer of Playa and has worked at hotel and resort owners and operators Barceló Crestline Corporation and Crestline Capital Corporation.
Our Business and Growth Strategies
Our goal is to be the leading owner, operator and developer of all-inclusive beachfront resorts in the markets we serve and to generate attractive risk-adjusted returns above our cost of capital and create value for our shareholders by implementing the following business and growth strategies:
•
Selectively Pursue Strategic Growth Opportunities. The all-inclusive segment of the lodging industry is highly fragmented. We believe that we are well positioned to grow our portfolio through acquisitions in the all-inclusive segment of the lodging industry, such as the recent acquisition of the Sagicor Assets. We believe that our extensive experience in all-inclusive resort operations, brand relationships, acquisition, expansion, renovation, repositioning and rebranding, established and scalable management platform and ability to offer NASDAQ-listed ordinary shares to potential resort sellers will make us a preferred asset acquirer.
•
Secure New Management Agreements. We intend to pursue opportunities to capitalize on our scalable and integrated resort management platform and our expertise and experience with managing all-inclusive resorts, by seeking to manage all-inclusive resorts owned by third parties for a fee and to potentially, over time, internalize the management of resorts we own that are currently managed by a third-party. For example, in September 2017, we entered into a long-term agreement to manage the 323-room Sanctuary Resort in Cap Cana, and in June 2018, we secured a long-term agreement to manage 129 rooms at the Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa.
•
Utilization of New Technologies and Leverage of Big Data. We utilize numerous technologies aimed at improving guest satisfaction and shareholder returns. During 2018, we launched a new website using a new search engine and metasearch optimization tools aimed at driving direct bookings, our lowest cost customer acquisition channel. As a result, our percentage of direct bookings increased from 18.2% in 2017 to 21.6% in 2018. With the implementation of our new booking engine and digital initiatives during the second half of 2018, we are seeing strong growth in 2019.
We also recently launched a new end-to-end technology at select resorts which uses sophisticated algorithms to identify in real-time what upgrades, packages and pricing to offer guests. This enables us to provide guests with several options

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to enhance their experience, while increasing revenue post-booking. Other new technological innovations underway include our recently launched travel agent portal, which facilitates travel agent bookings without the additional commission layer of a tour and travel operator, as well as the upcoming launch of our new yield management system, which should maximize guest revenues by optimizing both package rates and channel mix.
Additionally, by virtue of our partnerships with Hyatt and Hilton, we have greatly increased our access to member data and analytics with respect to millions of guests, further enabling us to drive lower customer acquisition costs, bookings and revenues.
Playa’s Hyatt Resort Agreements

For each Playa resort using a Hyatt All-Inclusive Brand, the Hyatt franchise agreements (the “Hyatt Resort Agreements”) grant to each of Playa and any third party owner for whom Playa serves as hotel operator (each a “Resort Owner”) the right, and such Resort Owner undertakes the obligation, to use Hyatt’s hotel system and system standards to build or convert and operate the resort subject to the agreement. Each franchise agreement between Hyatt and such Resort Owner has an initial 15-year term and Hyatt has two options to extend the term for an additional term of five years each or 10 years in the aggregate. Hyatt provides initial and ongoing training and guidance, marketing assistance and other assistance to each Resort Owner (and Playa as the resort’s manager) in connection with the resort’s development and operation. As part of this assistance, Hyatt reviews and approves the initial design and related elements of the resort. Hyatt also arranges for the provision of certain mandatory services, as well as (at the Resort Owner’s option) certain non-mandatory services, relating to the resort’s development and operation. In return, each Resort Owner agrees to operate the resort according to Hyatt’s operating procedures and its brand, quality assurance and other standards and specifications. This includes complying with Hyatt’s requirements relating to the central reservation system, global distribution systems and alternative distribution systems. In addition to the Hyatt franchise agreement, each Hyatt franchise Resort Owner enters into additional agreements with Hyatt pertaining to the development and operation of such new Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brand resort, including a trademark sublicense agreement, a World of Hyatt® guest loyalty program agreement, a chain marketing services agreement and a reservations agreement.

We continue to work with Hyatt to jointly improve all aspects of the brand system and standards for the Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brands. Hyatt owns the intellectual property rights relating to the Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brands, but we will have rights to use certain innovations that Hyatt and Playa jointly developed for the Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brands.

The Hyatt Strategic Alliance Agreement

We have entered into the Hyatt Strategic Alliance Agreement, as amended by the First Amendment to the Hyatt Strategic Alliance Agreement (with “Hyatt Strategic Alliance Agreement”) with Hyatt pursuant to which Playa and Hyatt have provided each other a right of first offer through December 31, 2021, with respect to any proposed offer or arrangement to acquire the rights to own and operating an all-inclusive resort at the level of quality and service consistent with the Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brands (a “Hyatt All-Inclusive Opportunity”) in the Market Area. If Playa intends to accept a Hyatt All-Inclusive Opportunity, Playa must notify Hyatt of such Hyatt All-Inclusive Opportunity and Hyatt has 10 business days to notify Playa of its decision to either accept or reject this Hyatt All-Inclusive Opportunity. If Hyatt accepts the Hyatt All-Inclusive Opportunity, Playa must negotiate in good faith with Hyatt the terms of a franchise agreement and related documents with respect to such property, provided that Playa acquires such property on terms acceptable to Playa within 60 days of offering such opportunity to Hyatt. If Hyatt intends to accept a Hyatt All-Inclusive Opportunity, Hyatt must notify Playa and Playa has to notify Hyatt within 10 business days of its decision to either accept or reject this Hyatt All-Inclusive Opportunity. If Playa accepts the Hyatt All-Inclusive Opportunity, Hyatt must negotiate in good faith with Playa the terms of a management agreement and other documents under which Playa would manage such Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brand resort (subject to a franchise agreement between Hyatt and the affiliate of Hyatt that would own such property), provided that Hyatt acquires such property on terms acceptable to it within 60 days of offering such opportunity to Playa. If Playa or Hyatt fails to notify each other of its decision or declines its right of first offer within the aforementioned 10 business day period, or if Playa or Hyatt determine after good-faith discussions that we cannot reach mutual acceptance of terms under which the development property would be licensed as a Hyatt Ziva or Hyatt Zilara hotel, such right of first offer will expire and Playa or Hyatt will be able to acquire, develop and operate the property related to such Hyatt All-Inclusive Opportunity free of any restrictions. In addition, if either party is approached by a third party with respect to the management or franchising, as applicable, of an all-inclusive resort in the Market Area, and such third party has not identified a manager or franchisor, as applicable, for the resort, the parties will notify each other and provide an introduction to the third party for the purposes of negotiating a management agreement or franchise agreement, in the case of Hyatt. On February 26, 2018, we and Hyatt extended the term of the Hyatt Strategic Alliance Agreement until December 31, 2021.


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The Hilton Strategic Alliance Agreement

We have entered into a Strategic Alliance Agreement with Hilton pursuant to which Hilton has granted to Playa, a right of first offer in the event that Hilton receives a letter of intent from a third party to franchise or manage a hotel under the Hilton all-inclusive Resort brand (the “Brand”), within certain countries located in the Caribbean (the “Caribbean Target Markets”) and Mexico, and certain countries in Central and South America (the “Mexico, Central and South America Target Markets” and collectively with the Caribbean Target Markets, the “Target Markets”) (collectively, the “Area of Exclusivity”). Upon receipt of any such third-party offer, Hilton shall notify Playa and we will have a period of 150 days from the date of such notice, to submit an application to Hilton to franchise a hotel in such country under the Brand. If we choose to submit a franchise application to Hilton, then we agree not to propose, negotiate, hold discussions or enter into any agreement with a third party to operate, or authorize the operating of a non-Hilton brand hotel in the country under consideration, until such time as Hilton has approved or denied our franchise application or we have informed Hilton of our desire not to pursue an application for franchise. In order to maintain our right of first offer in the Area of Exclusivity, we have agreed to open a total of eight additional Hilton all-inclusive Brand resorts, consisting of at least four hotels in the Caribbean Target Market (the “Caribbean Development Obligation”) and at least four hotels within the Mexico, Central and South America Target Market (the “Mexico, Central and South America Development Obligation”), under the Brand, no later than December 31, 2024 (provided that the last hotel in each market may open in 2025). In each case, the number of rooms in any proposed hotel must exceed 350. Additionally, we have agreed to certain development milestones (“Development Milestones”) in each of the Target Markets, including opening one hotel under the Brand during each calendar year commencing 2021. In November 2018, by virtue of Playa converting THE Royal Playa del Carmen to the Hilton Playa del Carmen All-Inclusive Resort and the Dreams La Romana to the Hilton La Romana All-Inclusive Family Resort and the Hilton La Romana All-Inclusive Adult Resort, we successfully satisfied our Development Milestones through 2021 in each of the Target Markets.

Hilton Franchise Agreements

In connection with our strategic alliance with Hilton, we have entered into franchise agreements with Hilton pursuant to which Hilton has granted to each of Playa and any third-party owner for whom Playa serves as hotel operator the right to operate such hotels under the Brand. These franchise agreements have an initial term of 15 years, unless sooner terminated in accordance with their terms. The agreements also contain customary terms with respect to how we market and operate the hotel under the Brand and impose a number of requirements including, among others, that we comply with Hilton’s standards in connection with the design, construction, refurbishing and operating of our Hilton branded hotels.

AMResorts Management Agreements

Four of our resorts (Dreams Puerto Aventuras, Secrets Capri, Dreams Punta Cana and Dreams Palm Beach) are operated by AMResorts pursuant to management agreements that contain customary terms and conditions, including those related to fees, termination conditions, capital expenditures, transfers of control of parties or transfers of ownership to competitors, sales of the hotels and non-competition and non-solicitation. These agreements are scheduled to expire in 2022. We pay AMResorts and its affiliates, as operators of these resorts, base management fees and incentive management fees. In addition, we reimburse the operators for some of the costs they incur in the provision of certain centralized services. We may also choose to opportunistically sell one or more of these resorts and redeploy the proceeds from any such sales, subject to certain restrictions under our Senior Secured Credit Facility (as defined below).

The Panama Jack Agreement

We entered into a master development agreement (the “Panama Jack Agreement”) with Panama Jack in 2017. Pursuant to the Panama Jack Agreement, Panama Jack has granted us, subject to our compliance with certain development milestones, the exclusive right to develop and own and/or to manage resorts under the Panama Jack brand (the “Panama Jack Resorts”) in Antigua, Aruba, the Bahamas, Barbados, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Mexico, Panama, St. Lucia and, subject to the lifting of various U.S. sanctions, Cuba. In addition, if Playa wishes to participate in any project to develop, convert or operate any resorts in the aforementioned countries that we believe in good faith and reasonable judgment are suitable for branding or conversion as a Panama Jack Resort, we will submit an application to Panama Jack to operate such resort as a Panama Jack Resort pursuant to the terms of the Panama Jack Agreement. Panama Jack may, in its commercially reasonable discretion, decide to approve or reject our application to operate a Panama Jack Resort. If Panama Jack approves our application, each such approved resort will be subject to a separate license agreement with Panama Jack. The Panama Jack Agreement has a 10 year term expiring in 2026, subject to either party's right to terminate in certain circumstances.

We rebranded and re-opened two of our existing resorts, Gran Caribe Resort and Gran Porto Resort, under the Panama Jack brand in December 2017.

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Vacation Package Distribution Channels and Sales and Reservations

Our experienced sales and marketing team uses a strategic sales and marketing program across a variety of distribution channels through which our all-inclusive vacation packages are sold. Key components of this sales and marketing program include:
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Targeting the primary tour operators and the wholesale market for transient business with a scalable program that supports shoulder and lower rate seasons while seeking to maximize revenue during high season, which also includes:
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Engaging in cooperative marketing programs with leading travel industry participants;
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Participating in travel agent tour operator promotional campaigns; and
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Utilizing online travel leaders, such as Expedia and Booking.com, to supplement sales during shoulder and lower rate seasons;
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Developing programs aimed at targeting consumers directly through:
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Our company and resort websites;
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The Hyatt website and toll free reservation telephone numbers;
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The World of Hyatt® guest loyalty program;
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The Hilton website and toll free reservation system;
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The Hilton Honors guest loyalty program; and
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Our toll free reservation system that provides a comprehensive view of inventory in real time, based on demand;
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Targeting group and incentive markets to seek and grow a strong base of corporate and event business;
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Highlighting destination wedding and honeymoon programs;
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Participating in key industry trade shows targeted to the travel agent and wholesale market;
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Engaging in online and social media, including:
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Search engine optimization;
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Targeted online and bounce-back advertising;
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Social media presence via sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest; and
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Flash sales and special offers for high need periods;
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Monitoring and managing TripAdvisor and other similar consumer sites; and
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Activating a targeted public relations plan to generate media attention-both traditional and new media including travel bloggers who focus on vacation travel to Mexico and the Caribbean.

We also seek luxury transient business to provide high rate business during peak seasons, such as winter and spring holidays, while “bargain hunters” can be targeted through social media for last minute high need periods. This multi-pronged strategy is designed to increase Net Package RevPAR (as defined in Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations) as well as generate strong occupancy through all of the resort seasons.

Insurance

Our resorts carry what we believe are appropriate levels of insurance coverage for a business operating in the lodging industry in Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Jamaica. This insurance includes coverage for general liability, property, workers’ compensation and other risks with respect to our business and business interruption coverage.

This general liability insurance provides coverage for any claim, including terrorism and hurricane damage, resulting from our operations, goods and services and vehicles. We believe these insurance policies are adequate for foreseeable losses and on terms and conditions that are reasonable and customary with solvent insurance carriers.


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Competition

We face intense competition for guests from other participants in the all-inclusive segment of the lodging industry and, to a lesser extent, from traditional hotels and resorts that are not all-inclusive. The all-inclusive segment remains a relatively small part of the broadly defined global vacation market that has historically been dominated by hotels and resorts that are not all-inclusive. Our principal competitors include other operators of all-inclusive resorts and resort companies, such as Barceló Hotels & Resorts, RIU Hotels & Resorts, IBEROSTAR Hotels & Resorts, Karisma Hotels & Resorts, AMResorts, Meliá Hotels International, Excellence Resorts and Palace Resorts, as well as some smaller, independent and local owners and operators. We compete for guests based primarily on brand name recognition and reputation, location, guest satisfaction, room rates, quality of service, amenities and quality of accommodations.

In addition, we also compete for guests based on the ability of hotel loyalty program members to earn and redeem loyalty program points at our Hyatt and Hilton all-inclusive resorts. We believe that our strategic relationship with Hyatt and Hilton, two globally recognized hotel brand leaders, provides us with a significant competitive advantage.

Seasonality

The seasonality of the lodging industry and the location of our resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean generally result in the greatest demand for our resorts between mid-December and April of each year, yielding higher occupancy levels and package rates during this period. This seasonality in demand has resulted in predictable fluctuations in revenue, results of operations and liquidity, which are consistently higher during the first quarter of each year than in successive quarters.

Cyclicality

The lodging industry is highly cyclical in nature. Fluctuations in operating performance are caused largely by general economic and local market conditions, which subsequently affect levels of business and leisure travel. In addition to general economic conditions, new hotel and resort room supply is an important factor that can affect the lodging industry’s performance, and over-building has the potential to further exacerbate the negative impact of an economic recession. Room rates and occupancy, and thus Net Package RevPAR (as defined in Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations), tend to increase when demand growth exceeds supply growth. A decline in lodging demand, or increase in lodging supply, could result in returns that are substantially below expectations, or result in losses, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, liquidity and results of operations. Further, many of the costs of running a resort are fixed rather than variable. As a result, in an environment of declining revenues the rate of decline in earnings is likely to be higher than the rate of decline in revenues.

Intellectual Property

We own or have rights to use the trademarks, service marks or trade names that we use or will use in conjunction with the operation of our business, including certain of Hyatt’s and Hilton’s intellectual property under the Hyatt Resort Agreements and our franchise agreements with Hilton. We also have rights to certain of Panama Jack’s intellectual property under the Panama Jack Agreement and related agreements. In the highly competitive lodging industry in which we operate, trademarks, service marks, trade names and logos are very important to the success of our business.

Corporate Information

Playa Hotels & Resorts N.V. was organized as a public limited company (naamloze vennootschap) under the laws of the Netherlands in December 2016. Our registered office in the Netherlands is located at Prins Bernhardplein 200, 1097 JB Amsterdam. Our telephone number at that address is +31 20 521 49 62. We maintain a website at www.playaresorts.com, which includes additional contact information. All reports that we have filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) including this Annual Report on Form 10-K and our current reports on Form 8-K, can be obtained free of charge from the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or through our website.

Employees

As of December 31, 2018, we directly and indirectly employed approximately 12,000 employees worldwide at our corporate offices and on-site at our resorts. We believe we have good relations with our employees.

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Item 1A. Risk Factors.
The following discussion concerns some of the risks associated with our business and should be considered carefully. These risks are interrelated and you should treat them as a whole. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us may also materially and adversely affect our business operations, the value of our ordinary shares and our ability to pay dividends to our shareholders. In connection with the forward-looking statements that appear in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, in these risk factors and elsewhere, you should carefully review the section entitled “Forward-Looking Statements.”
Risks Related to Our Business
General economic uncertainty and weak demand in the lodging industry could have a material adverse effect on us.
Our business strategy depends significantly on demand for vacations generally and, more specifically, on demand for all-inclusive vacation packages. Weak economic conditions, including high levels of unemployment and underemployment, in North America, especially the United States and Mexico, Europe and Asia could reduce the level of discretionary income or consumer confidence in the countries from which we source our guests and have a negative impact on the lodging industry. We cannot provide any assurances that demand for all-inclusive vacation packages will remain consistent with or increase from current levels. As a result of the foregoing, we could experience a prolonged period of decreased demand and price discounting in our markets, which would negatively affect our revenues and could have a material adverse effect on us, including our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects.
Terrorist acts, armed conflict, civil unrest, criminal activity and threats thereof, and other international events impacting the security of travel or the perception of security of travel could adversely affect the demand for travel generally and demand for vacation packages at our resorts, which could have a material adverse effect on us.
Past acts of terrorism have had an adverse effect on tourism, travel and the availability of air service and other forms of transportation. The threat or possibility of future terrorist acts, an outbreak, escalation and/or continuation of hostilities or armed conflict abroad, civil unrest or the possibility thereof, the issuance of travel advisories by sovereign governments, and other geo-political uncertainties have had and may have an adverse impact on the demand for vacation packages and consequently the pricing for vacation packages. Decreases in demand and reduced pricing in response to such decreased demand would adversely affect our business by reducing our profitability.
Nine of the 21 resorts in our portfolio are located in Mexico, and Mexico has experienced criminal violence for years, primarily due to the activities of drug cartels and related organized crime. These activities and the possible escalation of violence or other safety concerns, including food and beverage safety concerns, associated with them in regions where our resorts are located, or an increase in the perception among our prospective guests of an escalation of such violence or safety concerns, could instill and perpetuate fear among prospective guests and may lead to a loss in business at our resorts in Mexico because these guests may choose to vacation elsewhere or not at all. In addition, increases in violence, crime or civil unrest or other safety concerns in the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, or any other location where we may own a resort in the future, may also lead to decreased demand for our resorts and negatively affect our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects.
We are exposed to significant risks related to the geographic concentration of our resorts, including weather-related emergencies such as hurricanes, which could have a material adverse effect on us.
Our resorts located in Mexico accounted for 57.8% of our Total Net Revenue (as defined in Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations) for the year ended December 31, 2018. In addition to the matters referred to in the preceding risk factor, damage to these resorts or a disruption of their operations or a reduction of travel to them due to a hurricane or other weather-related or other emergency could reduce their revenue, which could have a material adverse effect on us, including our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects. We cannot assure you that any property or business interruption insurance will adequately address all losses, liabilities and damages. In addition, all of our resorts are located on beach front properties in Mexico and the Caribbean and are susceptible to weather-related emergencies, such as hurricanes.
The all-inclusive model may not be desirable to prospective guests in the luxury segment of the resort market, which could have a material adverse effect on us.
Our portfolio is composed predominantly of luxury all-inclusive resorts. The all-inclusive resort market has not traditionally been associated with the high-end and luxury segments of the lodging industry and there is a risk that our target guests, many of whom have not experienced an all-inclusive model, will not find the all-inclusive model appealing. A failure to attract our target guests could result in decreased revenue from our portfolio and could have a material adverse effect on us, including our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects.

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 Our relationship with Hyatt may deteriorate and disputes between Hyatt and us may arise. The Hyatt relationship is important to our business and, if it deteriorates, the value of our portfolio could decline significantly, and it could have a material adverse effect on us.
We are the only operator of resorts operating under the Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brands. However, except for the Hyatt franchise agreements, we have no contractual right to operate any resort in our current or future portfolio under the Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brands or any other Hyatt-sponsored brands. In addition, in the future, Hyatt, in its sole discretion and subject to its obligations under the Hyatt Strategic Alliance Agreement in the Market Area, may designate other third parties as authorized operators of resorts, or Hyatt may decide to directly operate resorts, under the Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brands or any other Hyatt brand, whether owned by third parties or Hyatt itself.
Also, and as described elsewhere in this annual report, subject to its obligations under the Hyatt Strategic Alliance Agreement, Hyatt is free to develop or license other all-inclusive resorts in the Market Area, even under the Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brands. Additionally, outside of the Market Area, Hyatt is free to develop or license other all-inclusive resorts under the Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brands and other Hyatt brands at any time.
Under the terms of our Hyatt Resort Agreements, we are required to meet specified operating standards and other terms and conditions. We expect that Hyatt will periodically inspect our resorts that carry a Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brand to ensure that we follow Hyatt’s standards. If we fail to maintain brand standards at one or more of our Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brand resorts, or otherwise fail to comply with the terms and conditions of the Hyatt Resort Agreements, then Hyatt could terminate the agreements related to those resorts and potentially all of our Hyatt resorts. Under the terms of the Hyatt franchise agreements, if, among other triggers, (i) the Hyatt franchise agreements for a certain number of Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brand resorts are terminated or (ii) certain persons acquire our ordinary shares in excess of specified percentage of our ordinary shares and certain mechanisms in our Articles of Association fail to operate to reduce such percentage within 30 days, Hyatt has the right to terminate the Hyatt franchise agreements for all (but not less than all) of our resorts by providing the notice specified in the franchise agreement to us and we will be subject to liquidated damage payments to Hyatt, even for those resorts that are in compliance with their Hyatt franchise agreements. If one or more Hyatt franchise agreements are terminated, the underlying value and performance of our related resort(s) could decline significantly from the loss of associated name recognition, participation in the World of Hyatt® guest loyalty program, Hyatt’s reservation system and website, and access to Hyatt group sales business, as well as from the costs of “rebranding” such resorts and the payment of liquidated damages to Hyatt.
Hyatt may, in its discretion and subject to its obligations under the Hyatt Strategic Alliance Agreement, decline to enter into Hyatt franchise agreements for other all-inclusive resort opportunities that we bring to Hyatt, whether we own the properties or manage them for third-party owners.
If any of the foregoing were to occur, it could have a material adverse effect on us, including our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects and the market price of our ordinary shares, and could divert the attention of our senior management from other important activities.
Our right of first offer in the Hyatt Strategic Alliance Agreement will expire on December 31, 2021 and certain provisions of our Hyatt franchise agreements impose certain restrictions on us, and such agreements are terminable under certain circumstances, any of which could have a material adverse effect on us.
Pursuant to the Hyatt Strategic Alliance Agreement, which will expire on December 31, 2021, we and Hyatt will provide each other the right of first offer with respect to any Hyatt All-Inclusive Opportunity in the Market Area and the right to receive an introduction to any third party with respect to any management opportunity for us or franchising opportunity for Hyatt, in each case, in the Market Area. However, such right of first offer for Hyatt All-Inclusive Opportunities is conditioned on the originating party’s acquisition of the related property within 60 days of its offer to the receiving party. Accordingly, if, for example, Hyatt determines to acquire such property subsequent to the expiration of the aforementioned 60 day period, it would be free to do so without any obligations to Playa in respect of such property.
Subject to its obligations under the Hyatt Strategic Alliance Agreement, Hyatt is free to develop or license other all-inclusive resorts in the Market Area, even under the Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brands. Additionally, outside of the Market Area, Hyatt is free to develop or license other all-inclusive resorts under the Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brands and other Hyatt brands at any time. Similarly, subject to our obligations under the Hyatt Strategic Alliance Agreement and the Hyatt Resorts Agreements, we will be allowed to operate any all-inclusive resort under any brand, such as Hilton and Panama Jack brand developed with Panama Jack International, Inc., a consumer products company that focuses on resort clothes and furnishings and sun care products (“Panama Jack”), provided that we implement strict informational and operational barriers, including marketing, management, development and strategic planning, between our operations with respect to our operations of such other hotel and our operations with respect to the Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brands.

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If we do not comply with our obligations to implement these strict informational and operations barriers under the Hyatt franchise agreements, Hyatt may terminate all (but not less than all) of its franchise agreements with us by providing the notice specified in the franchise agreement to us, and we will be subject to liquidated damage payments to Hyatt. As a result, such violations could have a material adverse effect on us, including our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects.
The success of six of our resorts will depend substantially on the success of the recently developed Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brands, which exposes us to risks associated with concentrating a significant portion of our portfolio in a family of two recently developed related brands. There is a risk that we and Hyatt may not succeed in marketing the Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brands and that we may not receive the anticipated return on the investment incurred in connection with rebranding the six resorts under the Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brands, which could have a material adverse effect on us.
Six of the resorts in our portfolio bear the name of one or both of the Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brands. As a result of this concentration, our success will depend, in part, on the continued success of these recently developed brands. We believe that building brand value is critical to increase demand and build guest loyalty. Consequently, if market recognition or the positive perception of Hyatt and its brands is reduced or compromised, the goodwill associated with Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brand resorts in our portfolio would likely be adversely affected. Under the Hyatt Resort Agreements, Hyatt provides (or causes to be provided) various marketing services to the relevant resorts, and we may conduct local and regional marketing, advertising and promotional programs, subject to compliance with Hyatt’s requirements. We cannot assure you that we and Hyatt will be successful in our marketing efforts to grow either Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brand. Additionally, we are not permitted under the Hyatt franchise agreements to change the brands of our resorts operating under the Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brands for 15 years (plus any additional years pursuant to Hyatt’s renewal options) after the opening of the relevant resorts as Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brand resorts, even if the brands are not successful. As a result, we could be materially and adversely affected if these brands do not succeed.
 We have agreed to indemnify Hyatt for losses related to a broad range of matters and if we are required to make payments to Hyatt pursuant to these obligations, our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects may be materially and adversely affected.
Pursuant to the subscription agreement entered into between Hyatt and us in connection with our Predecessor’s formation transactions, we have agreed to indemnify Hyatt for any breaches of our representations, warranties and agreements in the subscription agreement, generally subject to (i) a deductible of $10 million and (ii) a cap of $50 million (other than for breaches of certain representations, for which indemnification is capped at $325 million). In addition, we have agreed to indemnify Hyatt for certain potential losses relating to the lack of operating licenses, noncompliance with certain environmental regulations, tax deficiencies, any material misstatements or omissions in the offering documentation relating to our senior notes offerings and certain indemnity obligations to our Predecessor’s prior parent. The representations and warranties we made and our related indemnification obligations survive for varying periods of time from the closing date of our Predecessor’s formation transactions in 2013 (some of which have already elapsed) and some survive indefinitely. If we are required to make future payments to Hyatt pursuant to these obligations, however, our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects could be materially and adversely affected.
 Our relationship with Hilton may deteriorate and disputes between Hilton and us may arise. The Hilton relationship is important to our business and, if it deteriorates, the value of our portfolio could decline significantly, and it could have a material adverse effect on us.
We have a right of first offer to franchise or manage a new Hilton all-inclusive resort under the Brand in the Target Markets through August 7, 2023. However, except for the Hilton franchise agreements, we have no contractual right to operate any resort in our current or future portfolio under the Brand or any other Hilton-sponsored brands. In addition, in the future, Hilton, in its sole discretion and subject to its obligations under the Hilton Strategic Alliance Agreement in the Target Markets, may designate other third parties as authorized operators of resorts, or Hilton may decide to directly operate resorts, under the Brand or any other Hilton brand, whether owned by third parties or Hilton itself.
Also, subject to its obligations under the Hilton Strategic Alliance Agreement, including its obligation to give us a right of first offer to franchise or manage new resorts under the Brand in the Target Markets, Hilton is free to develop or license other all-inclusive resorts in the Target Markets, even under the Brand. Additionally, outside of the Target Markets, Hilton is free to develop or license other all-inclusive resorts under the Brand and other Hilton brands at any time.
Under the terms of our Hilton Strategic Alliance Agreement and the Hilton franchise agreements, we are required to meet specified operating standards and other terms and conditions. We expect that Hilton will periodically inspect our resorts that carry the Brand ensure that we follow Hilton’s standards. If we fail to maintain brand standards at one of our resorts that carry the Brand, or otherwise fail to comply with the terms and conditions of the Hilton franchise agreement, then Hilton could terminate the franchise agreements related to that resort. If one or more Hilton franchise agreements are terminated, the underlying value and performance of our related resort(s) could decline significantly from the loss of associated name recognition, participation in the Hilton Honors guest

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loyalty program, Hilton’s reservation system and website, and access to Hilton group sales business, as well as from the costs of “rebranding” such resorts and the payment of liquidated damages to Hilton.
Hilton may, in its discretion and subject to its obligations under the Hilton Strategic Alliance Agreement, decline to enter into Hilton franchise agreements for other all-inclusive resort opportunities that we bring to Hilton, even resorts under the Brand, whether we own the properties or manage them for third-party owners.
If any of the foregoing were to occur, it could have a material adverse effect on us, including our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects and the market price of our ordinary shares, and could divert the attention of our senior management from other important activities.
Our right of first offer in the Hilton Strategic Alliance Agreement will expire on August 7, 2023, and could be terminated earlier by Hilton if we fail to meet certain development milestones, and certain provisions of our Hilton Strategic Alliance Agreement impose certain restrictions on us, any of which could have a material adverse effect on us.
Pursuant to the Hilton Strategic Alliance Agreement, which will expire on August 7, 2023, we have the right of first offer to franchise or manage hotels under the Brand in the Target Markets, subject to certain conditions set forth in the Hilton Strategic Alliance Agreement. If we do not submit an application to franchise such new hotel within the 150-day time period specified in the Hilton Strategic Alliance Agreement, our right of first offer with respect to that particular property will expire. Our application to franchise such hotel remains subject to Hilton’s normal franchise criteria, so there is no guarantee that Hilton will accept our franchise application. In addition, during the 150-day period for which our right of first offer remains open for any particular property until the time when Hilton approves or denies our franchise application or our written confirmation to Hilton that we do not intend to submit a franchise application, we may not propose to, negotiate, hold discussions or enter into any agreement with any third party to operate, or authorize the operating of, any independent or non-Brand resorts in the country under consideration. It could take us some time to evaluate a particular opportunity before submitting a franchise application and Hilton would also need time to review and process our franchise application; therefore, this restriction may delay or hinder our ability to pursue other opportunities with non-Hilton brands during this period of time.
Our right of first offer with respect to resorts under the Brand is also subject to our obligation to open a minimum number of hotels under the Brand in each Target Market and our achievement of certain development milestones on a year-by-year basis in each Target Market. Pursuant to the terms of the Hilton Strategic Alliance Agreement, if we do not open a total of eight additional Brand resorts by December 31, 2024 (provided that the last hotel in each Target Market may open in 2025), consisting of at least four resorts in the Caribbean Target Market and at least four resorts within the Mexico, Central and South America Target Market, in each case under the Brand and having at least 350 guest rooms, Hilton will have the right to terminate the Strategic Alliance Agreement and our right of first offer in the Target Market in which we do not achieve such development obligation may also be terminated by Hilton. In addition, we have agreed to the Development Milestones, and if we do not open one Brand hotel in each of the Target Markets during each calendar year beginning 2021 and ending 2025, then Hilton will have the right to terminate the Strategic Alliance Agreement and our right of first offer in the Target Market in which we do not achieve such Development Milestones may also be terminated by Hilton. Our inability to meet the Development Milestones and Hilton’s potential termination of the Strategic Alliance Agreement could have a material adverse effect on us, including our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects.
We are required to obtain Hilton’s consent to issue equity securities under certain circumstances or undergo change of control transactions, which could impede our ability to seek certain strategic opportunities and could have a material adverse effect on us.
Under the terms of the Hilton Strategic Alliance Agreement, Hilton has the right to terminate the Strategic Alliance Agreement if we permit the transfer of any equity interests in Playa (other than equity securities listed on a securities exchange or quoted in a publication or electronic reporting service maintained by the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. or comparable organization) without the prior written consent of Hilton. This restriction on our ability to issue securities could hinder our ability to, among other things, acquire properties through the issuance of securities in an offering exempt from registration, as we did in the Sagicor transaction, without jeopardizing our strategic relationship with Hilton, which could have a material adverse effect on us, including our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects.
Under the terms of the Hilton franchise agreements, we are obligated to undergo certain consent and/or review procedures, including providing Hilton with at least sixty days’ advance written notice and providing Hilton with certain applicable information, before we are permitted to (i) effect the transfer of more than 50% of our equity securities, (ii) undergo a change of control, or (iii) issue securities in a public or private offering that refers to Hilton or the Hilton franchise agreements in the offering materials. If we do not comply with these informational and consent requirements, Hilton has the right to terminate the franchise agreements immediately, without any opportunity for us to cure such breach, and we would be liable to Hilton for liquidated damages. The termination by Hilton of the franchise agreements and our payment of liquidated damages to Hilton could have a material adverse effect on us, including our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects.

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The success of three of our current resorts, as well as the eight Brand resorts that we have committed to open under the Strategic Alliance Agreement, will depend substantially on the success of the recently developed Brand. There is a risk that we and Hilton may not succeed in marketing the Brand and that we may not receive the anticipated return on the investment incurred in connection with development or rebranding of our resorts under the Brand, which could have a material adverse effect on us.
Three of the resorts in our current portfolio bear the name of the Brand, and we have committed under the Hilton Strategic Alliance Agreement to add an additional eight Brand resorts before 2025. As a result of this concentration, our success will depend, in part, on the continued success of this recently developed brand. We believe that building brand value is critical to increase demand and build guest loyalty. Consequently, if market recognition or the positive perception of Hilton and its current or potential brands is reduced or compromised, the goodwill associated with the resorts in our portfolio under the Brand would likely be adversely affected. Under the Hilton franchise agreements, Hilton provides various marketing services to the relevant resorts, and we are obligated to conduct local and regional marketing, advertising and promotional programs, subject to compliance with Hilton’s requirements. We cannot assure you that we and Hilton will be successful in our marketing efforts to grow the Brand. Additionally, we are not permitted under the Hilton franchise agreements to change the brands of our resorts operating under the Brand for 15 years after the opening of the relevant resorts, even if the Brand is not successful. As a result, we could be materially and adversely affected if the Brand does not succeed.
If we fail to maintain or enhance our proprietary resort brands or if we or our third-party owners fail to maintain other brand standards, our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects may be materially and adversely affected.
In addition to the Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brands and the Brand, we own and manage resorts that use other brands, including proprietary brands. If we fail to maintain and enhance our proprietary resort brands, demand for these resorts will suffer. We cannot assure you that we will be successful in marketing such brands. With respect to resorts we own or manage for third parties that use other brands, we and such third parties will have to comply with applicable brand standards. These standards will require resort maintenance and improvements, including investments in furniture, fixtures, amenities and personnel. If we or our third-party property owners fail to maintain brand standards, or otherwise fail to comply with the terms and conditions of agreements with brand owners, then our ability and the ability of our third party owners to use these brands may be terminated, which could cause our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects to be materially and adversely affected.
New brands, such as Panama Jack Resorts, amenities or services that we launch in the future may not be successful, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, liquidity and results of operations.
We cannot assure you that any new brands, such as the Panama Jack brand, amenities or services we launch will be successful, or that we will recover the costs we incurred in developing the brands, amenities and services. If new brands, amenities and services are not as successful as we anticipate, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, liquidity and results of operations.
We are exposed to fluctuations in currency exchange rates, including fluctuations in (a) the value of the local currencies, in which we incur our costs at each resort, relative to the U.S. dollar, in which the revenue from each of our resorts is generally denominated, (b) the currency of our prospective guests, who may have a reduced ability to pay for travel to our resorts, relative to their ability to pay to travel to destinations with more attractive exchange rates, and (c) the value of local currencies relative to the U.S. dollar, which could impact our ability to meet our U.S. dollar-denominated obligations, including our debt service payments, any of which could have a material adverse effect on us.
The majority of our operating expenses are incurred locally at our resorts and are denominated in Mexican Pesos, the Dominican Peso or the Jamaican dollar. The net proceeds from our outstanding debt borrowings were received and are payable by our subsidiary Playa Resorts Holding B.V., in U.S. dollars and our functional reporting currency is U.S. dollars. An increase in the relative value of the local currencies, in which we incur our costs at each resort, relative to the U.S. dollar, in which our revenue from each resort is denominated, would adversely affect our results of operations for those resorts. Our current policy is not to hedge against changes in foreign exchange rates and we therefore may be adversely affected by appreciation in the value of other currencies against the U.S. dollar, or to prolonged periods of exchange rate volatility. These fluctuations may negatively impact our financial condition, liquidity and results of operations to the extent we are unable to adjust our pricing accordingly.
 
Additionally, in the event that the U.S. dollar increases in value relative to the currency of the prospective guests living outside the United States, our prospective guests may have a reduced ability to pay for travel to our resorts and this may lead to lower occupancy rates and revenue, which could have a material adverse effect on us, including our financial results. An increase in the value of the Mexican Peso, the Dominican Peso or the Jamaican dollar compared to the currencies of other potential destinations may disadvantage the tourism industry in Mexico, the Dominican Republic or Jamaica, respectively, and result in a corresponding decrease in the occupancy rates and revenue of our resorts as consumers may choose destinations in countries with more attractive exchange rates. In the event that this appreciation occurs, it could lead to an increase in the rates we charge for rooms in our resorts, which could result in

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a decrease in occupancy rates and revenue and, therefore, negatively impact our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects.
Furthermore, appreciation of local currencies relative to the U.S. dollar could make fulfillment of our and our subsidiaries’ U.S. dollar denominated obligations, including Playa Resorts Holding B.V.’s debt service payments, more challenging and could have a material adverse effect on us, including our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects.
The departure of any of our key personnel, including Bruce D. Wardinski, Alexander Stadlin, Ryan Hymel, and Kevin Froemming who have significant experience and relationships in the lodging industry, could have a material adverse effect on us.
We depend on the experience and relationships of our senior management team, especially Bruce D. Wardinski, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Alexander Stadlin, the Chief Operating Officer, Ryan Hymel, the Chief Financial Officer, and Kevin Froemming, the Chief Marketing Officer, to manage our strategic business direction. The members of our senior management team have an average of 30 years of experience owning, operating, acquiring, repositioning, rebranding, renovating and financing hotel, resort and all-inclusive properties. In addition, our senior management team has developed an extensive network of industry, corporate and institutional relationships. Other than our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Bruce D. Wardinski, our Chief Financial Officer, Ryan Hymel, our Chief Operating Officer, Alexander Stadlin, and our Chief Marketing Officer, Kevin Froemming, our senior management team does not have employment agreements with us or our subsidiaries and we can provide no assurances that any of our key personnel identified above will continue their employment with us. The loss of services of any of Mr. Wardinski, Mr. Stadlin, Mr. Hymel, or Mr. Froemming or another member of our senior management team, or any difficulty attracting and retaining other talented and experienced personnel, could have a material adverse effect on us, including, among others, our ability to source potential investment opportunities, our relationship with global and national industry brands and other industry participants or the execution of our business strategy.
We rely on a third party, AMResorts, to manage four of our resorts and we can provide no assurance that AMResorts will manage these resorts successfully or that AMResorts will not be subject to conflicts harmful to our interests.
Pursuant to management agreements with AMResorts, four of our 21 resorts are managed by AMResorts. Therefore, absent payment by us of significant termination fees, until the expiration of the management agreements in 2022, we will not be able to terminate AMResorts and self-manage these resorts. We can provide no assurance that AMResorts will manage these resorts successfully.
Failure by AMResorts to fully perform the duties agreed to in the management agreements or the failure of AMResorts to adequately manage the risks associated with resort operations could materially and adversely affect us. We may have differences with AMResorts and other third party service providers over their performance and compliance with the terms of the management agreements and other service agreements. In these cases, if we are unable to reach satisfactory results through discussions and negotiations, we may choose to litigate the dispute or submit the matter to third party dispute resolution. In addition, AMResorts currently owns and/or manages and may in the future own and/or manage other resorts, including all-inclusive resorts in our markets that may compete with our resorts.
AMResorts and its affiliates may have interests that conflict with our interests, such as incentives to favor these other resorts over our resorts as a result of more favorable compensation arrangements or by ownership interests in these resorts.
Our strategy to opportunistically acquire, develop and operate in new geographic markets may not be successful, which could have a material adverse effect on us, including our financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects.
In the future, we may acquire or develop and operate resorts in geographic markets in which our management has little or no operating experience and in which potential guests are not familiar with a particular brand with which the resort is affiliated or do not associate the geographic market as an all-inclusive resort destination. As a result, we may incur costs relating to the opening, operation and promotion of such resorts that are substantially greater than those incurred in other geographic areas, and such resorts may attract fewer guests than other resorts we may acquire. Consequently, demand at any resorts that we may acquire in unfamiliar markets may be lower than those at resorts that we currently operate or that we may acquire in our existing markets. Unanticipated expenses at and insufficient demand for resorts that we acquire in new geographic markets, therefore, could materially and adversely affect us, including our financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects.
Our resort development, acquisition, expansion, repositioning and rebranding projects will be subject to timing, budgeting and other risks, which could have a material adverse effect on us.
We may develop, acquire, expand, reposition or rebrand resorts (such as the two resorts we have rebranded under the Panama Jack brand and the two resorts we have rebranded under the Brand) from time to time as suitable opportunities arise, taking into

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consideration general economic conditions. To the extent that we determine to develop, acquire, expand, reposition or rebrand resorts, we could be subject to risks associated with, among others:
•
construction delays or cost overruns that may increase project costs;
•
receipt of zoning, occupancy and other required governmental permits and authorizations;
•
strikes or other labor issues;
•
development costs incurred for projects that are not pursued to completion;
•
investment of substantial capital without, in the case of developed or repositioned resorts, immediate corresponding income;
•
results that may not achieve our desired revenue or profit goals;
•
acts of nature such as earthquakes, hurricanes, floods or fires that could adversely impact a resort;
•
ability to raise capital, including construction or acquisition financing; and
•
governmental restrictions on the nature or size of a project.
 
As a result of the foregoing, we cannot assure you that any development, acquisition, expansion, repositioning and rebranding project will be completed on time or within budget or if the ultimate rates of investment return are below the returns forecasted at the time the project was commenced. If we are unable to complete a project on time or within budget, the resort’s projected operating results may be adversely affected, which could have a material adverse effect on us, including our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects.
Our insurance may not be adequate to cover our potential losses, liabilities and damages and we may not be able to secure insurance to cover all of our risks, which could have a material adverse effect on us.
The business of owning and managing resorts is subject to a number of risks, hazards, adverse environmental conditions, labor disputes, changes in the regulatory environment and natural phenomena such as floods, hurricanes, earthquakes and earth movements. Such occurrences could result in damage or impairment to, or destruction of, our resorts, personal injury or death, environmental damage, business interruption, monetary losses and legal liability.
While insurance is not commonly available for all these risks, we maintain customary insurance against risks that we believe are typical and reasonably insurable in the lodging industry and in amounts that we believe to be reasonable but that contain limits, deductibles, exclusions and endorsements. However, we may decide not to insure against certain risks because of high premiums compared to the benefit offered by such insurance or for other reasons. In the event that costs or losses exceed our available insurance or additional liability is imposed on us for which we are not insured or are otherwise unable to seek reimbursement, we could be materially and adversely affected, including our financial results. We may not be able to continue to procure adequate insurance coverage at commercially reasonable rates in the future or at all, and some claims may not be paid. There can be no assurance that the coverage and amounts of our insurance will be sufficient for our needs.
Labor shortages could restrict our ability to operate our properties or grow our business or result in increased labor costs that could adversely affect our results of operations and cash flows.
Our success depends in large part on our ability to attract, retain, train, manage and engage skilled employees. As of December 31, 2018, we directly and indirectly employed approximately 12,000 employees worldwide at both our corporate offices and on-site at our resorts. If we are unable to attract, retain, train, manage, and engage skilled employees, our ability to manage and staff our resorts could be impaired, which could reduce guest satisfaction. Staffing shortages in places where our resorts are located also could hinder our ability to grow and expand our businesses. Because payroll costs are a major component of the operating expenses at our resorts, a shortage of skilled labor could also require higher wages that would increase labor costs, which could adversely affect our results of operations and cash flows.
A significant number of our employees are unionized, and if labor negotiations or work stoppages were to disrupt our operations, it could have a material adverse effect on us.
Approximately 45% of our full-time equivalent work force is unionized. As a result, we are required to negotiate the wages, salaries, benefits, staffing levels and other terms with many of our employees collectively and we are exposed to the risk of disruptions to our operations. Our results could be adversely affected if future labor negotiations were to disrupt our operations. If we were to experience labor unrest, strikes or other business interruptions in connection with labor negotiations or otherwise, or if we were unable to negotiate labor contracts on reasonable terms, we could be materially and adversely affected, including our results of operations. In

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addition, our ability to make adjustments to control compensation and benefits costs, rebalance our portfolio or otherwise adapt to changing business needs may be limited by the terms and duration of our collective bargaining agreements.
 Many of our guests rely on a combination of scheduled commercial airline services and tour operator services for passenger connections, and price increases or service changes by airlines or tour operators could have a material adverse effect on us, including reducing our occupancy rates and revenue and, therefore, our liquidity and results of operations.
Many of our guests depend on a combination of scheduled commercial airline services and tour operator services to transport them to airports near our resorts. Increases in the price of airfare, due to increases in fuel prices or other factors, would increase the overall vacation cost to our guests and may adversely affect demand for our vacation packages. Changes in commercial airline services or tour operator services as a result of strikes, weather or other events, or the lack of availability due to schedule changes or a high level of airline bookings, could have a material adverse effect on us, including our occupancy rates and revenue and, therefore, our liquidity and results of operations.
Our industry is highly competitive, which may impact our ability to compete successfully with other hotel and resort brands and operators for guests, which could have a material adverse effect on us, including our operating margins, market share and financial results.
We generally operate in markets that contain numerous competitors. Each of our resort brands compete with major chains in national and international venues and with independent companies in regional markets, including with recent entrants into the all-inclusive segment of the lodging industry in the regions in which we operate. Our ability to remain competitive and to attract and retain guests depends on our success in establishing and distinguishing the recognition and reputation of our brands, our locations, our guest satisfaction, our room rates, quality of service, amenities and quality of accommodations and our overall value from offerings by others. If we are unable to compete successfully in these countries, it could have a material adverse effect on us, including our operating margins, market share and financial results.
Any joint venture investments that we make in the future could be adversely affected by our lack of sole decision-making authority, our reliance on co-venturers’ financial condition and liquidity and disputes between our co-venturers and us.
We may co-invest in resorts in the future with third parties through partnerships or other joint ventures, acquiring non-controlling interests in or sharing responsibility for any such ventures. In this event, we would not be in a position to exercise sole decision-making authority regarding the joint venture and, in certain cases, may have little or no decision-making authority. Investments through partnerships or other joint ventures may, under certain circumstances, involve risks not present were a third party not involved, including the possibility that partners or co-venturers might become bankrupt, fail to fund their share of required capital contributions, make dubious business decisions or block or delay necessary decisions. Partners or co-venturers may have economic or other business interests or goals which are inconsistent with our business interests or goals, and may be in a position to take actions contrary to our policies or objectives. Such investments may also have the potential risk of impasses on decisions, such as a sale, because neither we nor the partner or co-venturer would have full control over the partnership or joint venture. Disputes between us and partners or co-venturers may result in litigation or arbitration that would increase our expenses and prevent our executive officers, senior management and/or directors from focusing their time and effort on our business. Consequently, action by, or disputes with, partners or co-venturers might result in subjecting properties owned by the partnership or joint venture to additional risk. In addition, we may in certain circumstances be liable for the actions of our third-party partners or co-venturers.
Our concentration in a particular segment of a single industry limits our ability to offset the risks of a downturn in that segment, which could have a material adverse effect on us, including our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects.
All of our assets are resorts and resort-related assets and we expect that all of our business will continue to be resort-related. Furthermore, our business is focused primarily on, and our acquisition strategy targets the acquisition of resorts in, the all-inclusive segment of the lodging industry (and properties that we believe can be converted into all-inclusive resorts in a manner consistent with our business strategy). This concentration exposes us to the risk of economic downturns in the lodging industry and in the all-inclusive segment of the lodging industry to a greater extent than if our portfolio also included assets from other segments of the real estate industry or other sectors of the lodging industry. As a result, we are susceptible to a downturn in the lodging industry and, in particular, to a downturn affecting the all-inclusive segment thereof. If market conditions adversely affect the lodging industry, in general, and the all-inclusive segment thereof, in particular, it could have a material adverse effect on us, including our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects.

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The ongoing need for capital expenditures at our resorts could have a material adverse effect on us, including our financial condition, liquidity and results of operations.
Our resorts will have an ongoing need for renovations and other capital improvements, including replacements, from time to time, of furniture, fixtures and equipment. In addition, Hyatt and Hilton will require periodic capital improvements by us as a condition of maintaining the use of their brands. These capital improvements may give rise to the following risks:
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possible environmental liabilities;
•
construction cost overruns and delays;
•
the decline in revenues while rooms or restaurants are out of service due to capital improvement projects;
•
a possible shortage of available cash to fund capital improvements and the related possibility that financing for these capital improvements may not be available to us on favorable terms, or at all;
•
uncertainties as to market demand or a loss of market demand after capital improvements have begun;
•
disputes with Hyatt and/or Hilton regarding compliance with the Hyatt Resort Agreements, the Hyatt Strategic Alliance Agreement and/or our agreements with Hilton; and
•
bankruptcy or insolvency of a contracted party during a capital improvement project or other situation that renders them unable to complete their work.
The costs of all these capital improvements or any of the above noted factors could have a material adverse effect on us, including our financial condition, liquidity and results of operations.
We have substantial debt outstanding currently and may incur additional debt in the future. The principal, premium, if any, and interest payment obligations of such debt may restrict our future operations and impair our ability to invest in our business.
As of December 31, 2018, our total debt obligations were $996.5 million (which represents the principal amounts outstanding under our term loan (the “Term Loan”) and revolving credit facility (the “Revolving Credit Facility,” and, collectively with the Term Loan, the “Senior Secured Credit Facility”), excluding a $2.7 million issuance discount and $4.5 million of unamortized debt issuance costs on our Term Loan. In addition, the terms of the Senior Secured Credit Facility will permit us to incur additional indebtedness, subject to our ability to meet certain borrowing conditions.
Our substantial debt may have important consequences to you. For instance, it could:
•
make it more difficult for us to satisfy our financial obligations;
•
require us to dedicate a substantial portion of any cash flow from operations to the payment of interest and principal due under our debt, which would reduce funds available for other business purposes, including capital expenditures and acquisitions;
•
 
•
place us at a competitive disadvantage compared to some of our competitors that may have less debt and better access to capital resources;
•
limit our ability to respond to changing business, industry and economic conditions and to withstand competitive pressures, which may adversely affect our operations;
•
cause us to incur higher interest expense in the event of increases in interest rates on our borrowings that have variable interest rates or in the event of refinancing existing debt at higher interest rates;
•
limit our ability to make investments or acquisitions, dispose of assets, pay cash dividends or redeem or repurchase shares; and/or
•
limit our ability to refinance existing debt or to obtain additional financing required to fund working capital and other business needs, including capital requirements and acquisitions.
Our ability to service our significant financial obligations depends on our ability to generate significant cash flow from operations, which is partially subject to general economic, financial, competitive, legislative, regulatory and other factors beyond our control, and we cannot assure you that our business will generate cash flow from operations, that future borrowings will be available to us under the Revolving Credit Facility, or that we will be able to complete any necessary financings or refinancings, in amounts sufficient to enable us to fund our operations, engage in acquisitions, capital improvements or other development activities, pay our debts and other obligations and fund our other liquidity needs. If we are not able to generate sufficient cash flow from operations, we may need to refinance or restructure our debt, sell assets, reduce or delay capital investments, or seek to raise additional capital. Additional debt or equity financing may not be available in sufficient amounts, at times or on terms acceptable to us, or at all, and any

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additional debt financing we do obtain may significantly increase our leverage on unfavorable terms. If we are unable to implement one or more of these alternatives, we may not be able to service our debt or other obligations, which could result in us being in default thereon, in which circumstances our lenders could cease making loans to us, lenders or other holders of our debt could accelerate and declare due all outstanding obligations due under the respective agreements and secured lenders could foreclose on their collateral, any of which could have a material adverse effect on us. In addition, the current volatility in the capital markets may also impact our ability to obtain additional financing, or to refinance our existing debt, on terms or at times favorable to us.
The agreements which govern our various debt obligations impose restrictions on our business and limit our ability to undertake certain actions.
The agreements which govern our various debt obligations, including the Senior Secured Credit Facility, include covenants imposing significant restrictions on our business. These restrictions may affect our ability to operate our business and may limit our ability to take advantage of potential business opportunities as they arise. These covenants place restrictions on our ability to, among other things:
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incur additional debt;
•
pay dividends or repurchase shares or make other distributions to shareholders;
•
make investments or acquisitions;
•
create liens or use assets as security in other transactions;
•
issue guarantees;
•
merge or consolidate, or sell, transfer, lease or dispose of substantially all of our assets;
•
amend our Articles of Association or bylaws;
•
engage in transactions with affiliates; and
•
purchase, sell or transfer certain assets.
 
The Senior Secured Credit Facility also requires us to comply with certain financial and other covenants. Our ability to comply with these agreements may be affected by events beyond our control, including prevailing economic, financial and industry conditions. These covenants could have a material adverse effect on our business by limiting our ability to take advantage of financing, merger and acquisition or other corporate opportunities. The breach of any of these covenants could result in a default under the Senior Secured Credit Facility. An event of default under any of our debt agreements could permit such lenders to declare all amounts borrowed from them, together with accrued and unpaid interest, to be immediately due and payable, which could, in turn, trigger defaults under other debt obligations and could result in the termination of commitments of the lenders to make further extensions of credit under the Revolving Credit Facility. If we are unable to repay debt to our lenders, or are otherwise in default under any provision governing any secured debt obligations, our secured lenders could proceed against us and against any collateral securing that debt.
Our variable rate indebtedness is priced using a spread over the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) and subjects us to interest rate risk, which could cause our debt service obligations to increase significantly.
Borrowings under the Senior Secured Credit Facility are at variable rates of interest and expose us to interest rate risk. If interest rates increase, our debt service obligations on our existing and any future variable rate indebtedness would also increase and our cash available to service our other obligations and invest in our business would decrease. Furthermore, rising interest rates would likely increase our interest obligations on future fixed rate indebtedness. As a result, rising interest rates could materially and adversely affect our financial condition and liquidity.
In addition, in July 2017, the head of the United Kingdom Financial Conduct Authority announced its desire to phase out the use of LIBOR by the end of 2021. The U.S. Federal Reserve, in conjunction with the Alternative Reference Rates Committee, a steering committee comprised of large U.S. financial institutions, is considering replacing U.S.-dollar LIBOR with the Secured Overnight Financing Rate, or SOFR, a new index calculated by short-term repurchase agreements, backed by Treasury securities. Although there have been a few issuances utilizing SOFR or the Sterling Over Night Index Average, an alternative reference rate that is based on transactions, it is unknown whether these alternative reference rates will attain market acceptance as replacements for LIBOR. If LIBOR ceases to exist, we may need to amend the terms of our Senior Secured Credit Facility or any future credit agreements extending beyond 2021 and indexed to LIBOR, which could have a material adverse effect on us, including our financial results.

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Any mortgage debt we incur will expose us to increased risk of property losses due to foreclosure, which could have a material adverse effect on us.
Incurring mortgage debt increases our risk of property losses because any defaults on indebtedness secured by our resorts may result in foreclosure actions initiated by lenders and ultimately our loss of the property securing the loan for which we are in default. For tax purposes, a foreclosure of any nonrecourse mortgage on any of our resorts may be treated as a sale of the property for a purchase price equal to the outstanding balance of the debt secured by the mortgage. In certain of the jurisdictions in which we operate, if any such foreclosure is treated as a sale of the property and the outstanding balance of the debt secured by the mortgage exceeds our tax basis in the property, we could recognize taxable income upon foreclosure but may not receive any cash proceeds.
In addition, any default under our mortgage debt may increase the risk of default on our other indebtedness, including other mortgage debt. If this occurs, we may not be able to satisfy our obligations under our indebtedness, which could have a material adverse effect on us, including our financial condition, liquidity (including our future access to borrowing) and results of operations.
We may become subject to disputes or legal, regulatory or other proceedings that could involve significant expenditures by us, which could have a material adverse effect on us.
The nature of our business exposes us to the potential for disputes or legal, regulatory or other proceedings from time to time relating to tax matters, environmental matters, government regulations, including licensing and permitting requirements, food and beverages safety regulations, personal injury, labor and employment matters, contract disputes and other issues. In addition, amenities at our resorts, including restaurants, bars and swimming pools, are subject to significant regulations, and government authorities may disagree with our interpretations of these regulations, or may enforce regulations that historically have not been enforced. Such disputes, individually or collectively, could adversely affect our business by distracting our management from the operation of our business or impacting our market reputation with our guests. If these disputes develop into proceedings or judgments, these proceedings or judgments, individually or collectively, could distract our senior management, disrupt our business or involve significant expenditures and our reserves relating to ongoing proceedings, if any, may ultimately prove to be inadequate, any of which could have a material adverse effect on us, including our financial results.
Some of the resorts in our portfolio located in Mexico were constructed and renovated without certain approvals. The authority granted to the Mexican government is plenary and we can give no assurance it will not exercise its authority to impose fines, remediation measures or close part or all of the related resort(s), which could have a material adverse effect on us.
Some of the resorts in our portfolio were constructed and renovated without certain approvals at the time the construction and renovation work was carried out, as the prior owners of such resorts determined that such approvals were not required under the Mexican law. We can give no assurance that the Mexican authorities will have the same interpretation of Mexican law as the prior owners. The authority granted to the Mexican government in this regard is plenary and we can give no assurance the Mexican government will not exercise its authority to impose fines, to require us to perform remediation/restoration activities and/or to contribute to environmental trusts, and/or to close part or all of the related resort(s), which could have a material adverse effect on us, including our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects.
As of 1988, Mexican environmental laws were amended in order to establish that, among other things, any new hotel construction and certain renovations require the preparation of an environmental impact statement (“MIA”) in order to obtain an Environmental Impact Authorization (Resolutivo de Impacto Ambiental). Furthermore, since 2003 depending on each specific project, a supporting technical report (“ETJ”) is required to obtain an Authorization to Change the Use of Soil of Forestal Land (Autorización de Cambio de Uso de Suelo en Terrenos Forestales).
With respect to the applicable resorts:
•
Two of the acquired resorts, Panama Jack Resorts Cancún and Hyatt Zilara Cancún, were built prior to implementation of the MIA in 1988 and, therefore, required no such authorization. However, certain renovations to these resorts were carried out after 1988 without an MIA because the prior owner determined that no authorization was needed pursuant to an exception in the Mexican law. We can give no assurance that the Mexican authorities will have the same interpretation of the applicability of the exception as the prior owner.
•
The remaining two resorts, Hilton Playa del Carmen All-Inclusive Resort and Panama Jack Resorts Playa del Carmen, were constructed after 1988 without the required MIA and ETJ authorizations. Notwithstanding the foregoing, those resorts were operated by the prior owner, and since our Predecessor’s acquisition at the time of our Predecessor’s formation transaction have been operated by our Predecessor and us, with no interference in the normal course of business.

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The consequences of failing to obtain the MIA and/or ETJ, as applicable, could result in fines of up to approximately $300,000, obligations to perform remediation/restoration activities and/or contribute to environmental trusts, and, in the case of a severe violation, a partial or total closing or a demolition of the relevant resort(s). Although we are not aware of closings or demolitions due to the failure to obtain the MIA and/or ETJ, no assurance can be given that such action will not be taken in the future.
Our wholly-owned subsidiary Playa Resorts Holding B.V. may be required to obtain a banking license and/or may be in violation of the prohibition to attract repayable funds as a result of having issued senior notes and borrowing under our Senior Secured Credit Facility, which could have a material adverse effect on us.
Under the Regulation (EU) No 575/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of June 26, 2013 on prudential requirements for credit institutions and investment firms and amending Regulation (EU) No 648/2012 (the “CRR”), which took effect on January 1, 2014, there is uncertainty regarding how certain key terms in the CRR are to be interpreted.
 
If such terms are not interpreted in a manner that is consistent with current Dutch national guidance on which Playa Resorts Holding B.V. (our wholly-owned subsidiary) relies, Playa Resorts Holding B.V. could be categorized as a “credit institution” as a consequence of borrowing under our Senior Secured Credit Facility if it is deemed to be “an undertaking the business of which is to receive deposits or other repayable funds from the public and to grant credits for its own account.” This would require it to obtain a banking license and it could be deemed to be in violation of the prohibition on conducting the business of a bank without such a license. With respect to the borrowing under our Senior Secured Credit Facility, Playa Resorts Holding B.V. could also be deemed to be in violation of the prohibition on attracting repayable funds from the public. In each such case, it could, as a result, be subject to certain enforcement measures such as a warning and/or instructions by the regulator, incremental penalty payments (last onder dwangsom) and administrative fines (bestuurlijke boete), which all may be disclosed publicly by the regulator.
There is limited official guidance at the EU level as to the key elements of the definition of “credit institution,” such as the terms “repayable funds” and “the public.” The Netherlands legislature has indicated that, as long as there is no clear guidance at the EU level, it is to be expected that the current Dutch national interpretation of these terms will continue to be taken into account for the use and interpretation thereof. Playa Resorts Holding B.V. relies on this national interpretation to reach the conclusion that a requirement to obtain a banking license is not triggered, and that the prohibitions on conducting the business of a bank without such a license and on attracting repayable funds from the public have not been violated, on the basis that (i) each lender under our Senior Secured Credit Facility has extended loans to Playa Resorts Holding B.V. for an initial amount of at least the U.S. dollar equivalent of €100,000 or has assumed rights and/or obligations vis-à-vis Playa Resorts Holding B.V. the value of which is at least the U.S. dollar equivalent of €100,000 and (ii) all senior notes which were issued by Playa Resorts Holding B.V. were in denominations which equal or are greater than the U.S. dollar equivalent of €100,000.
If European guidance is published on what constitutes “the public” as referred to in the CRR, and such guidance does not provide that the holder of a note of $150,000 or more, such as was the case with our senior notes, or the lenders under our Senior Secured Credit Facility, each providing a loan the initial amount of which exceeds the U.S. dollar equivalent of €100,000, are excluded from being considered part of “the public” and the current Dutch national interpretation of these terms is not considered to be “grandfathered,” then Playa Resorts Holding B.V. may be required to obtain a banking license, and/or may be deemed to be in violation of the prohibition on conducting the business of a bank without such a license and, with respect to our Senior Secured Credit Facility, the prohibition on attracting repayable funds from the public and, as a result may, in each case, be subject to certain enforcement measures as described above. If Playa Resorts Holding B.V. is required to obtain a banking license or becomes subject to such enforcement measures, we could be materially adversely affected.

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We have identified, and our independent registered public accounting firm has communicated to us, a material weakness in our disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018. As a result, we have an increased risk of a material misstatement in our consolidated financial statements, and our internal control over financial reporting and our monitoring controls and processes were not effective as of such date. This material weakness has not been remediated, and it will take time for us to develop, implement and test additional information technology controls. Accordingly, we may not be able to accurately report our financial results or prevent fraud, which may cause investors to lose confidence in our reported financial information and may lead to a decline in the market price of our ordinary shares.
A “material weakness” is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement in our annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. We have identified, and Deloitte & Touche, LLP (“Deloitte”), the independent registered public accounting firm that audited our Consolidated Financial Statements for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, and for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2018, included in this annual report and the related financial statement schedule included in this annual report, has communicated, an existing material weakness in our disclosure controls and procedures and our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018, as follows:
•
Our information technology controls, including system access, change management, and segregation of duties are not sufficiently designed and implemented to address certain information technology risks and, as a result, could expose our systems and data to unauthorized use or alteration (the “IT Weakness”).
This material weakness increases the risk of a material misstatement in our financial statements.
We continue to take steps to remediate the identified IT Weakness. The Company has engaged a third party consulting firm to assist the Company with the implementation of SAP, which is a global information technology solution designed to address the elements which give rise to our material weakness. As of December 31, 2018, SAP was successfully implemented in our corporate entities and at one of our properties. We expect to implement SAP in our remaining operational entities, in phases, throughout 2019. However, effectiveness will need to be successfully tested over several quarters before we can conclude that the IT Weakness has been remediated. There can be no assurance that we will be successful in making these improvements and in remediating our current material weakness in a timely manner, or at all, and we may not prevent future material weaknesses from occurring.
The results of operations of our resorts may be adversely affected by various operating risks common to the lodging industry, including competition, over-supply and dependence on tourism, which could have a material adverse effect on us.
Our resorts are subject to various operating risks common to the lodging industry, many of which are beyond our control, including, among others, the following:
•
the availability of and demand for hotel and resort rooms;
•
over-building of hotels and resorts in the markets in which we operate, which results in increased supply and may adversely affect occupancy and revenues at our resorts;
•
pricing strategies of our competitors;
•
increases in operating costs due to inflation and other factors that may not be offset by increased room rates or other income;
•
international, national, and regional economic and geopolitical conditions;
•
the impact of war, crime, actual or threatened terrorist activity and heightened travel security measures instituted in response to war, terrorist activity or threats (including Travel Advisories issued by the U.S. Department of State) and civil unrest;
•
 
•
the impact of any economic or political instability in Mexico due to unsettled political conditions, including civil unrest, widespread criminal activity, acts of terrorism, force majeure, war or other armed conflict, strikes and governmental actions;
•
the desirability of particular locations and changes in travel patterns;
•
the occurrence of natural or man-made disasters, such as earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, and oil spills;
•
events that may be beyond our control that could adversely affect the reputation of one or more of our resorts or that may disproportionately and adversely impact the reputation of our brands or resorts;
•
taxes and government regulations that influence or determine wages, prices, interest rates, construction procedures, and costs;

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•
adverse effects of a downturn in the lodging industry, especially leisure travel and tourism spending;
•
changes in interest rates and in the availability, cost and terms of debt financing;
•
necessity for periodic capital reinvestment to maintain, repair, expand, renovate and reposition our resorts;
•
the costs and administrative burdens associated with compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including, among others, those associated with privacy, marketing and sales, licensing, labor, employment, the environment, and the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control and the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (“FCPA”);
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the availability, cost and other terms of capital to allow us to fund investments in our portfolio and the acquisition of new resorts;
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regional, national and international development of competing resorts;
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increases in wages and other labor costs, energy, healthcare, insurance, transportation and fuel, and other expenses central to the conduct of our business or the cost of travel for our guests, including recent increases in energy costs and any resulting increase in travel costs or decrease in airline capacity;
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availability, cost and other terms of insurance;
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organized labor activities, which could cause the diversion of business from resorts involved in labor negotiations, loss of group business, and/or increased labor costs;
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currency exchange fluctuations;
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trademark or intellectual property infringement; and
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risks generally associated with the ownership of hotels, resorts and real estate, as we discuss in detail below.
Any one or more of these factors could limit or reduce the demand for our resorts or the prices our resorts are able to obtain or could increase our costs and therefore reduce the operating results of our resorts. Even where such factors do not reduce demand, resort-level profit margins may suffer if we are unable to fully recover increased operating costs from our guests. These factors could have a material adverse effect on us, including our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects.
The seasonality of the lodging industry could have a material adverse effect on us.
The lodging industry is seasonal in nature, which can be expected to cause quarterly fluctuations in our revenues. The seasonality of the lodging industry and the location of our resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean will generally result in the greatest demand for our resorts between mid-December and April of each year, yielding higher occupancy levels and package rates during this period. This seasonality in demand has resulted in predictable fluctuations in revenue, results of operations and liquidity, which are consistently higher during the first quarter of each year than in successive quarters. We can provide no assurances that these seasonal fluctuations will, in the future, be consistent with our historical experience or whether any shortfalls that occur as a result of these fluctuations will not have a material adverse effect on us.
The cyclical nature of the lodging industry may cause fluctuations in our operating performance, which could have a material adverse effect on us.
The lodging industry is highly cyclical in nature. Fluctuations in operating performance are caused largely by general economic and local market conditions, which subsequently affect levels of business and leisure travel. In addition to general economic conditions, new hotel and resort room supply is an important factor that can affect the lodging industry’s performance, and over-building has the potential to further exacerbate the negative impact of an economic recession. Room rates and occupancy, and thus Net Package RevPAR (as defined in Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations), tend to increase when demand growth exceeds supply growth. A decline in lodging demand, or increase in lodging supply, could result in returns that are substantially below expectations, or result in losses, which could have a material adverse effect on us, including our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects. Further, the costs of running a resort tend to be more fixed than variable. As a result, in an environment of declining revenue, the rate of decline in earnings is likely to be higher than the rate of decline in revenue.
The increasing use of Internet travel intermediaries by consumers could have a material adverse effect on us.
Some of our vacation packages are booked through Internet travel intermediaries, including, but not limited to, Travelocity.com, Expedia.com and Priceline.com. As these Internet bookings increase, these intermediaries may be able to obtain higher commissions, reduced room rates or other significant contract concessions from us. Moreover, some of these Internet travel intermediaries are attempting to offer lodging as a commodity, by increasing the importance of price and general indicators of quality, such as “three-star

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downtown hotel,” at the expense of brand identification or quality of product or service. If consumers develop loyalty to Internet reservations systems rather than to our booking system or the brands we own and operate, the value of our resorts could deteriorate and we could be materially and adversely affected, including our financial results.
Cyber risk and the failure to maintain the integrity of internal or guest data could harm our reputation and result in a loss of business and/or subject us to costs, fines, investigations, enforcement actions or lawsuits.
We, Hyatt, Hilton, our third-party resort manager and other third-party service providers collect, use and retain large volumes of guest data, including credit card numbers and other personally identifiable information, for business, marketing and other purposes in our, Hyatt’s, Hilton’s, our third-party resort manager's and other third-party service providers' various information technology systems, which enter, process, summarize and report such data. We also maintain personally identifiable information about our employees. We, Hyatt, Hilton, our third-party resort manager and other third-party service providers store and process such internal and guest data both at on-site facilities and at third party owned facilities including, for example, in a third party hosted cloud environment. The integrity and protection of our guest, employee and company data, as well as the continuous operation of our, Hyatt’s, Hilton’s, our third-party resort manager's and other third-party service providers' systems, is critical to our business. Our guests and employees expect that we will adequately protect their personal information. The regulations and contractual obligations applicable to security and privacy are increasingly demanding, both in the United States and in other jurisdictions where we operate, and cyber-criminals have been recently targeting the lodging industry. We continue to develop and enhance controls and security measures to protect against the risk of theft, loss or fraudulent or unlawful use of guest, employee or company data, and we maintain an ongoing process to re-evaluate the adequacy of our controls and measures.
Notwithstanding our efforts to protect against unauthorized access of our systems and sensitive information, because of the scope and complexity of their information technology structure, our reliance on third parties to support and protect our structure and data, and the constantly evolving cyber-threat landscape, our systems and those of third parties on which we rely are vulnerable to disruptions, failures, unauthorized access, cyber-terrorism, employee error, negligence, fraud or other misuse, and given the sophistication of hackers to gain unauthorized access to our sensitive information, we may not be able to detect the breach for long periods of time or at all. These or similar occurrences, whether accidental or intentional, could result in theft, unauthorized access or disclosure, loss, fraudulent or unlawful use of guest, employee or company data which could harm our reputation, result in an interruption or disruption of our services or result in a loss of business, as well as remedial and other costs, fines, investigations, enforcement actions, or lawsuits. As a result, future incidents could have a material adverse impact on us, including our business, our financial condition, liquidity and results of operations and prospects.
Information technology systems, software or website failures or interruptions could have a material adverse effect on our business or results of operations.
We rely on the uninterrupted and efficient operation of our information technology systems and software. Information technology is critical to our day-to-day operations, including, but not exclusive to guest check-in and check-out, housekeeping and room service, and reporting our financial results and the financial results of our resorts. We rely on certain third-party hardware, network and software vendors to maintain and upgrade many of our critical systems on an ongoing basis to support our business operations and to keep pace with technology developments in the hospitality industry. The software programs supporting many of our systems are licensed to us by independent third-party software providers. An inability to continuously maintain and update our hardware and software programs or an inability for network providers to maintain their communications infrastructure would potentially disrupt or inhibit the efficiency of our operations if suitable alternatives could not be identified and implemented in a timely, efficient and cost-effective manner.
We face risks related to pandemic diseases, including avian flu, H1N1 flu, H7N9 flu, Ebola virus and Zika virus, which could materially and adversely affect travel and result in reduced demand for our resorts and could have a material adverse effect on us.
Our business could be materially and adversely affected by the effect of, or the public perception or a risk of, a pandemic disease on the travel industry. For example, the outbreaks of severe acute respiratory syndrome (“SARS”) and avian flu in 2003 had a severe impact on the travel industry, and the outbreaks of H1N1 flu in 2009 threatened to have a similar impact. Recently, cases of the Zika virus have been reported in regions in which our resorts are located. Additionally, the public perception of a risk of a pandemic or media coverage of these diseases, or public perception of health risks linked to perceived regional food and beverage safety, particularly if focused on regions in which our resorts are located, may adversely affect us by reducing demand for our resorts. A prolonged occurrence of SARS, avian flu, H1N1 flu, H7N9 flu, Ebola virus, Zika virus or another pandemic disease also may result in health or other government authorities imposing restrictions on travel. Any of these events could result in a significant drop in demand for our resorts and could have a material adverse effect on us.

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We may be subject to unknown or contingent liabilities related to our existing resorts and resorts that we acquire, which could have a material adverse effect on us.
Our existing resorts and resorts that we may in the future acquire may be subject to unknown or contingent liabilities for which we may have no recourse, or only limited recourse, against the sellers. In general, the representations and warranties provided under the transaction agreements related to our existing resorts and any future acquisitions of resorts by us may not survive the closing of the transactions. Furthermore, indemnification under such agreements may not exist or be limited and subject to various exceptions or materiality thresholds, a significant deductible or an aggregate cap on losses. As a result, there is no guarantee that we will recover any amounts with respect to losses due to breaches by the transferors or sellers of their representations and warranties or other prior actions by the sellers. In addition, the total amount of costs and expenses that may be incurred with respect to liabilities associated with these resorts may exceed our expectations, and we may experience other unanticipated adverse effects, all of which may materially and adversely affect us, including our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects.
Conducting business internationally may result in increased risks and any such risks could have a material adverse effect on us.
We operate our business internationally and plan to continue to develop an international presence. Operating internationally exposes us to a number of risks, including political risks, risks of increase in duties and taxes, risks relating to anti-bribery laws, such as the FCPA, as well as changes in laws and policies affecting vacation businesses, or governing the operations of foreign-based companies. Because some of our expenses are incurred in foreign currencies, we are exposed to exchange rate risks. Additional risks include interest rate movements, imposition of trade barriers and restrictions on repatriation of earnings. Any of these risks could have a material adverse effect on us, including our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects.
We could be exposed to liabilities under the FCPA and other anti-corruption laws and regulations, including non-U.S. laws, any of which could have a material adverse impact on us.
We have international operations, and as a result are subject to compliance with various laws and regulations, including the FCPA and other anti-corruption laws in the jurisdictions in which we do business, which generally prohibit companies and their intermediaries or agents from engaging in bribery or making improper payments to foreign officials or their agents or other entities. The FCPA also requires companies to make and keep books and records and accounts which, in reasonable detail, reflect their transactions, including the disposition of their assets. We have implemented, and will continue to evaluate and improve, safeguards and policies designed to prevent violations of various anti-corruption laws that prohibit improper payments or offers of payments to foreign officials or their agents or other entities for the purpose of conducting business, and we are in the process of expanding our training program. The countries in which we own resorts have experienced governmental corruption to some degree and, in certain circumstances, compliance with anti-corruption laws may conflict with local customs and practices. Despite existing safeguards and any future improvements to our policies and training, we will be exposed to risks from deliberate, reckless or negligent acts committed by our employees or agents for which we might be held responsible. Failure to comply with these laws or our internal policies could lead to criminal and civil penalties and other legal and regulatory liabilities and require us to undertake remedial measures, any of which could have a material adverse impact on us, including our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects.
Our existing resorts and resorts that we may acquire may contain or develop harmful mold that could lead to liability for adverse health effects and costs of remediating the problem, either of which could have a material adverse effect on us.
When excessive moisture accumulates in buildings or on building materials, mold growth may occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or is not addressed over a period of time. Some molds may produce airborne toxins or irritants. Concern about indoor exposure to mold has been increasing as exposure to mold may cause a variety of adverse health effects and symptoms, including allergic or other reactions. Some of the resorts in our portfolio or resorts that we may acquire may contain microbial matter, such as mold and mildew, which could require us to undertake a costly remediation program to contain or remove the mold from the affected resort. Furthermore, we can provide no assurances that we will be successful in identifying harmful mold and mildew at resorts that we seek to acquire, which could require us to take remedial action at acquired resorts. The presence of significant mold could expose us to liability from guests, employees and others if property damage or health concerns arise, which could have a material adverse effect on us, including our results of operations.
Climate change may adversely affect our business, which could materially and adversely affect us.
We may be adversely impacted by the consequences of climate change, such as changes in the frequency, duration and severity of extreme weather events and changes in precipitation and temperature, which may result in physical damage or a decrease in demand for our properties, all of which are located in coastal beachfront locations that are vulnerable to significant property damage from severe weather events, including hurricanes. Should the impact of climate change be material in nature, we could be materially and adversely affected, including our financial condition, liquidity and results of operations. In addition, changes in applicable legislation

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and regulation on climate change could result in increased capital expenditures to improve the energy efficiency of the properties in order to comply with such regulations. Actual or anticipated losses resulting from the consequences of climate change could also impact the cost or availability of insurance.
 Illiquidity of real estate investments could significantly impede our ability to sell resorts or otherwise respond to adverse changes in the performance of our resorts, which could have a material adverse effect on us.
Because real estate investments are relatively illiquid, our ability to sell one or more resorts promptly for reasonable prices in response to changing economic, financial and investment conditions will be limited. The real estate market is affected by many factors beyond our control, including:
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adverse changes in international, national, regional and local economic and market conditions;
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changes in interest and tax rates and in the availability and cost and other terms of debt financing;
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changes in governmental laws and regulations, fiscal policies and zoning ordinances and the related costs of compliance with laws and regulations, fiscal policies and ordinances;
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the ongoing need for capital improvements, particularly in older structures;
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changes in operating expenses; and
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civil unrest, widespread criminal activity, and acts of nature, including hurricanes, earthquakes, floods and other natural disasters, which may result in uninsured losses, and acts of war or terrorism.
We may decide to sell resorts in the future. We cannot predict whether we will be able to sell any resort for the price or on the terms set by us, or whether any price or other terms offered by a prospective purchaser would be acceptable to us. We also cannot predict the length of time needed to find a willing purchaser and to close the sale of a resort.
During the recent economic recession, the availability of credit to purchasers of hotels and resorts and financing structures, such as commercial mortgage-backed securities, which had been used to finance many hotel and resort acquisitions in prior years, was reduced. Subsequent to such economic recession, such credit availability and financing structures have been inconsistent from time to time. If financing for hotels and resorts is not available on attractive terms or at all, it will adversely impact the ability of third parties to buy our resorts. As a result, we may hold our resorts for a longer period than we would otherwise desire and may sell resorts at a loss.
In addition, we may be required to expend funds to correct defects or to make improvements before a resort can be sold. We can provide no assurances that we will have funds available, or access to such funds, to correct those defects or to make those improvements. In acquiring a resort, we may agree to lock-out provisions or tax protection agreements that materially restrict us from selling that property for a period of time or impose other restrictions, such as a limitation on the amount of debt that can be placed or repaid on that property. These factors and any others that would impede our ability to respond to adverse changes in the performance of our resorts or a need for liquidity could materially and adversely affect us, including our financial results.
We could incur significant costs related to government regulation and litigation with respect to environmental matters, which could have a material adverse effect on us.
Our resorts are subject to various international, national, regional and local environmental laws that impose liability for contamination. Under these laws, governmental entities have the authority to require us, as the current owner of property, to perform or pay for the clean-up of contamination (including hazardous substances, waste, or petroleum products) at, on, under or emanating from our property and to pay for natural resource damages arising from such contamination. Such laws often impose liability without regard to whether the owner or operator or other responsible party knew of, or caused, such contamination, and the liability may be joint and several. Because these laws also impose liability on persons who owned a property at the time it was or became contaminated, it is possible we could incur cleanup costs or other environmental liabilities even after we sell resorts. Contamination at, on, under or emanating from our resorts also may expose us to liability to private parties for costs of remediation and/or personal injury or property damage. In addition, environmental laws may create liens on contaminated sites in favor of the government for damages and costs it incurs to address such contamination. If contamination is discovered on our resorts, environmental laws also may impose restrictions on the manner in which our property may be used or our business may be operated, and these restrictions may require substantial expenditures. Moreover, environmental contamination can affect the value of a property and, therefore, an owner’s ability to borrow funds using the property as collateral or to sell the property on favorable terms or at all. Furthermore, persons who sent waste to a waste disposal facility, such as a landfill or an incinerator, may be liable for costs associated with cleanup of that facility.

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In addition, our resorts are subject to various international, national, regional and local environmental, health and safety regulatory requirements that address a wide variety of issues. Some of our resorts routinely handle and use hazardous or regulated substances and wastes as part of their operations, which are subject to regulation (e.g., swimming pool chemicals). Our resorts incur costs to comply with these environmental, health and safety laws and regulations and could be subject to fines and penalties for non-compliance with applicable laws.
Liabilities and costs associated with contamination at, on, under or emanating from our properties, defending against claims, or complying with environmental, health and safety laws could be significant and could have a material adverse effect on us, including our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects. We can provide no assurances that (i) changes in current laws or regulations or future laws or regulations will not impose additional or new material environmental liabilities or (ii) the current environmental condition of our resorts will not be affected by our operations, by the condition of the resorts in the vicinity of our resorts, or by third parties unrelated to us. The discovery of material environmental liabilities at our resorts could subject us to unanticipated significant costs, which could result in significant losses. Please see “Risk Factors — Risks Related to Our Business — We may become subject to disputes or legal, regulatory or other proceedings that could involve significant expenditures by us, which could have a material adverse effect on us” as to the possibility of disputes or legal, regulatory or other proceedings that could adversely affect us.
The tax laws, rules and regulations (or interpretations thereof) in the jurisdictions in which we operate may change, which could have a material adverse effect on us.
We generally seek to structure our business activities in the jurisdictions in which we operate in a manner that is tax-efficient, taking into account the relevant tax laws, rules and regulations. However, tax laws, rules and regulations in these jurisdictions are complex and are subject to change as well as subject to interpretation by local tax authorities and courts. There can be no assurance that these tax laws, rules and regulations (or interpretations thereof) will not change, possibly with retroactive effect, or that local tax authorities may not otherwise successfully assert positions contrary to those taken by us. In any such case, we may be required to operate in a less tax-efficient manner, incur costs and expenses to restructure our operations and/or owe past taxes (and potentially interest and penalties), which in each case could negatively impact our operations. For example, we will need to renegotiate our agreements which determine our taxes in the Dominican Republic, known as advanced pricing agreements, with The Ministry of Finance of the Dominican Republic in 2019 when our current agreements expire. There is no certainty that the approved tax arrangements in this jurisdiction will be similar to our current arrangements.
 Increases in property taxes would increase our operating costs, which could have a material adverse effect on us.
Each of our resorts is subject to real and personal property taxes, especially upon any development, redevelopment, rebranding, repositioning and renovation. These taxes may increase as tax rates change and as our resorts are assessed or reassessed by taxing authorities. If property taxes increase, we would incur a corresponding increase in our operating expenses, which could have a material adverse effect on us, including our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects.
Risks Related to Ownership of Our Ordinary Shares
The rights of our shareholders and the duties of our directors are governed by Dutch law, our Articles of Association and internal rules and policies adopted by our board of directors (the “Board”), and differ in some important respects from the rights of shareholders and the duties of members of a board of directors of a U.S. corporation.
Our corporate affairs, as a Dutch public limited liability company (naamloze vennootschap), are governed by our Articles of Association, internal rules and policies adopted by our Board and by the laws governing companies incorporated in the Netherlands. The rights of our shareholders and the duties of our directors under Dutch law are different from the rights of shareholders and/or the duties of directors of a corporation organized under the laws of U.S. jurisdictions. In the performance of its duties, our Board is required by Dutch law to consider our interests and the interests of our shareholders, our employees and other stakeholders (e.g., our creditors, guests and suppliers) as a whole and not only those of our shareholders, which may negatively affect the value of your investment.
In addition, the rights of our shareholders, including for example the rights of shareholders as they relate to the exercise of shareholder rights, are governed by Dutch law and our Articles of Association and such rights differ from the rights of shareholders under U.S. law. For example, if we engaged in a merger, Dutch law would not grant appraisal rights to any of our shareholders who wished to challenge the consideration to be paid to them upon such merger (without prejudice, however, to certain cash exit rights offered under Dutch law in certain circumstances).

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We are organized and existing under the laws of the Netherlands, and, as such, the rights of our shareholders and the civil liability of our directors and executive officers are governed in certain respects by the laws of the Netherlands.
We are organized and existing under the laws of the Netherlands, and, as such, the rights of our shareholders and the civil liability of our directors and executive officers are governed in certain respects by the laws of the Netherlands. The ability of our shareholders in certain countries other than the Netherlands to bring an action against us, our directors and executive officers may be limited under applicable law. In addition, substantially all of our assets are located outside the United States. As a result, it may not be possible for shareholders to effect service of process within the United States upon us or our directors and executive officers or to enforce judgments against us or them in U.S. courts, including judgments predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the federal securities laws of the United States. In addition, it is not clear whether a Dutch court would impose civil liability on us or any of our directors and executive officers in an original action based solely upon the federal securities laws of the United States brought in a court of competent jurisdiction in the Netherlands.
As of the date of this annual report, there is no treaty in effect between the United States and the Netherlands providing for the reciprocal recognition and enforcement of judgments, other than arbitration awards, in civil and commercial matters. With respect to choice of court agreements in civil or commercial matters, it is noted that the Hague Convention on Choice of Court Agreements entered into force for the Netherlands, but has not entered into force for the United States. Accordingly, a judgment rendered by a court in the United States, whether or not predicated solely upon U.S. securities laws, would not automatically be recognized and enforced by the competent Dutch courts. However, if a person has obtained a judgment for the payment of money rendered by a court in the United States and files a claim with the competent Dutch court, the Dutch court will in principle give binding effect to a foreign judgment if (i) the jurisdiction of the foreign court was based on a ground of jurisdiction that is generally acceptable according to international standards, (ii) the judgment by the foreign court was rendered in legal proceedings that comply with the Dutch standards of proper administration of justice including sufficient safeguards (behoorlijke rechtspleging) and (iii) binding effect of such foreign judgment is not contrary to Dutch public order and (iv) the judgment by the foreign court is not incompatible with a decision rendered between the same parties by a Dutch court, or with a previous decision rendered between the same parties by a foreign court in a dispute that concerns the same subject and is based on the same cause, provided that the previous decision qualifies for acknowledgment in the Netherlands. Even if such a foreign judgment is giving binding effect, a claim based thereon may, however, still be rejected if the foreign judgment is not or no longer formally enforceable.
Based on the lack of a treaty as described above, U.S. investors may not be able to enforce against us or our directors, representatives or certain experts named herein who are residents of the Netherlands or countries other than the United States any judgments obtained in U.S. courts in civil and commercial matters, including judgments under the U.S. federal securities laws.
Under our Articles of Association, and certain other contractual arrangements between us and our directors, we indemnify and hold our directors harmless against all claims and suits brought against them, subject to limited exceptions. There is doubt, however, as to whether U.S. courts would enforce such indemnity provisions in an action brought against one of our directors in the United States under U.S. securities laws.
Each of TPG Global, LLC, Farallon Capital Management, L.L.C., Sagicor and Hyatt own a significant portion of our ordinary shares and have representation on our Board. Any of these investors may have interests that differ from those of other shareholders.
As of December 31, 2018, approximately 6.6% of our outstanding ordinary shares were beneficially owned by TPG Pace Sponsor, LLC (“Pace Sponsor”), an affiliate of TPG Global, LLC. In addition, three of our directors were designated by Pace Sponsor. As a result, Pace Sponsor may be able to significantly influence the outcome of matters submitted for director action, subject to our directors’ obligation to act in the interest of all of our stakeholders, and for shareholder action, including the designation and appointment of our Board (and committees thereof) and approval of significant corporate transactions, including business combinations, consolidations and mergers. So long as Pace Sponsor and/or its affiliates continue to directly or indirectly own a significant amount of our outstanding equity interests and one or more individuals affiliated with Pace Sponsor are members of our Board and/or one or more committees thereof, Pace Sponsor may be able to exert substantial influence on us and may be able to exercise its influence in a manner that is not in the interests of our other stakeholders. Pace Sponsor’s influence over our management could have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a change in control or otherwise discouraging a potential acquirer from attempting to obtain control of us, which could cause the market price of our ordinary shares to decline or prevent our shareholders from realizing a premium over the market price for our ordinary shares. Additionally, Pace Sponsor is in the business of making investments in companies and owning real estate, and Pace Sponsor may from time to time acquire and hold interests in businesses that compete directly or indirectly with us or that supply us with goods and services. Pace Sponsor may also pursue acquisition opportunities that may be complementary to (or competitive with) our business, and as a result those acquisition opportunities may not be available to us. Prospective investors in our ordinary shares should consider that the interests of Pace Sponsor may differ from their interests in material respects.

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As of December 31, 2018, approximately 23.1% of our outstanding ordinary shares were beneficially owned by Cabana Investors B.V. and Playa Four Pack, L.L.C. (collectively, “Cabana”), each of which is an affiliate of Farallon Capital Management, L.L.C. (“Farallon”). In addition, two of our directors were designated by Cabana. As a result, Cabana may be able to significantly influence the outcome of matters submitted for director action, subject to our directors’ obligation to act in the interest of all of our stakeholders, and for shareholder action, including the designation and appointment of our Board (and committees thereof) and approval of significant corporate transactions, including business combinations, consolidations and mergers. So long as Cabana and/or its affiliates continue to directly or indirectly own a significant amount of our outstanding equity interests and one or more individuals designated by Cabana are members of our Board and/or one or more committees thereof, both Cabana and Farallon may be able to exert substantial influence on us and may be able to exercise its influence in a manner that is not in the interests of our other stakeholders. Cabana’s concentration of ownership could have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a change in control or otherwise discouraging a potential acquirer from attempting to obtain control of us, which could cause the market price of our ordinary shares to decline or prevent our shareholders from realizing a premium over the market price for our ordinary shares. Additionally, Farallon-advised funds, including those that are in the business of making investments in companies and owning other hotels, may from time to time acquire and hold interests in businesses that compete directly or indirectly with us or that supply us with goods and services. Farallon may also pursue acquisition opportunities that may be complementary to, or competitive with, our business, and as a result those acquisition opportunities may not be available to us. Prospective investors in our ordinary shares should consider that the interests of Farallon and Cabana may differ from their interests in material respects.
As of December 31, 2018, approximately 15.1% of our outstanding ordinary shares were beneficially owned by Jamziv Mobay Jamaica Limited (“Jamziv”), which is owned by JCSD Trustee Services Limited (“JCSD”) and X Fund Properties (“XFUND”), both affiliates of Sagicor. Two of our directors have been designated by JCSD and XFUND. As a result, Sagicor may be able to significantly influence the outcome of matters submitted for director action, subject to our directors’ obligation to act in the interest of all of our stakeholders, and for shareholder action, including the designation and appointment of our Board (and committees thereof) and approval of significant corporate transactions, including business combinations, consolidations and mergers. So long as Sagicor and/or its affiliates continue to directly or indirectly own a significant amount of our outstanding equity interests and one or more individuals designated by Sagicor are members of our Board and/or one or more committees thereof, Sagicor and its affiliates may be able to exert substantial influence on us and may be able to exercise its influence in a manner that is not in the interests of our other stakeholders. Sagicor’s concentration of ownership could have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a change in control or otherwise discouraging a potential acquirer from attempting to obtain control of us, which could cause the market price of our ordinary shares to decline or prevent our shareholders from realizing a premium over the market price for our ordinary shares.
As of December 31, 2018, approximately 9.2% of our outstanding ordinary shares were beneficially owned by HI Holdings Playa B.V. (“HI Holdings Playa”), an affiliate of Hyatt. In addition, one of our directors was designated by HI Holdings Playa and is currently an employee of Hyatt. As a result, HI Holdings Playa and Hyatt may be able to influence the outcome of matters submitted for director action, subject to our directors’ obligation to act in the interest of all of our stakeholders, and for shareholder action, including the designation and appointment of our Board (and committees thereof) and approval of significant corporate transactions, including business combinations, consolidations and mergers. HI Holdings Playa’s concentration of ownership could have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a change in control or otherwise discouraging a potential acquirer from attempting to obtain control of us, which could cause the market price of our ordinary shares to decline or prevent our shareholders from realizing a premium over the market price for our ordinary shares. Additionally, Hyatt owns and franchises other hotels, and Hyatt may from time to time acquire and hold interests in, subject to the Hyatt Strategic Alliance Agreement, businesses that compete directly or indirectly with us or that supply us and/or its subsidiaries with goods and services. Hyatt may also pursue acquisition opportunities that may be complementary to or competitive with our business, and as a result those acquisition opportunities may not be available to us. Also, the loss of any Hyatt Resort Agreement or the Hyatt Strategic Alliance Agreement is likely to have a material adverse effect on us. Prospective investors in our ordinary shares should consider that the interests of Hyatt and HI Holdings Playa may differ from their interests in material respects.
Provisions of our Articles of Association or Dutch corporate law might deter or discourage acquisition bids for us that shareholders might consider to be favorable and prevent or frustrate any attempt to replace or remove our Board at the time of such acquisition bid.
Certain provisions of our Articles of Association may make it more difficult for a third party to acquire control of us or effect a change in our Board. These provisions include:
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A provision that our directors are appointed by our General Meeting at the binding nomination of our Board. Such binding nomination may only be overruled by the General Meeting by a resolution adopted by at least a majority of the votes cast, if such votes represent more than 50% of our issued share capital.
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A provision that our shareholders at a General Meeting may suspend or remove directors at any time. A resolution of our General Meeting to suspend or remove a director may be passed by a majority of the votes cast, provided that the

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resolution is based on a proposal by our Board. In the absence of a proposal by our Board, a resolution of our General Meeting to suspend or remove a director shall require a vote of at least a majority of the votes cast, if such votes represent more than 50% of our issued share capital.
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A requirement that certain actions can only be taken by the General Meeting with at least two-thirds of the votes cast, unless such resolution is passed at the proposal by our Board, including an amendment of our Articles of Association, the issuance of shares or the granting of rights to subscribe for shares, the limitation or exclusion of preemptive rights, the reduction of our issued share capital, the application for bankruptcy, the making of a distribution from our profits or reserves on our ordinary shares, the making of a distribution in the form of shares in our capital or in the form of assets, instead of cash, the entering into of a merger or demerger, our dissolution and the designation or granting of authorizations such as the authorization to issue shares and to limit or exclude preemptive rights. Our General Meeting adopted a resolution to grant such authorizations to our Board.
•
A provision prohibiting (a) a “Brand Owner” (which generally means a franchisor, licensor or owner of a hotel concept or brand that has at least 12 all-inclusive resorts and that competes with any Hyatt All-Inclusive Resort Brand resort) from acquiring our ordinary shares such that the Brand Owner (together with its affiliates) acquires beneficial ownership in excess of 15% of our outstanding shares, or (b) a “Restricted Brand Company” from acquiring our ordinary shares such that the Restricted Brand Company (together with its affiliates) acquires beneficial ownership in excess of 5% of our outstanding ordinary shares. Upon becoming aware of either share cap being exceeded, we will send a notice to such shareholder informing such shareholder of a violation of this provision and granting the shareholder two weeks to dispose of such excess ordinary shares to an unaffiliated third party. Such notice will immediately trigger the transfer obligation and suspend the right to attend our General Meeting and voting rights (together, “Shareholder Rights”) of the shares exceeding the cap. If such excess shares are not disposed by such time, (i) the Shareholder Rights on all shares held by the shareholder exceeding the share cap will be suspended until the transfer obligations have been complied with, (ii) we will be irrevocably authorized under our Articles of Association to transfer the excess shares to a foundation until sold to an unaffiliated third party and (iii) such foundation shall issue depositary receipts for the ordinary shares concerned to the relevant Brand Owner or Restricted Brand Company for as long as those ordinary shares are held by the foundation.
Such provisions could discourage a takeover attempt and impair the ability of shareholders to benefit from a change in control and realize any potential change of control premium. This may adversely affect the market price of the ordinary shares.
Our General Meeting has authorized our Board to issue and grant rights to subscribe for our ordinary shares, up to the amount of the authorized share capital (from time to time) and limit or exclude preemptive rights on those shares, in each case for a period of five years from the date of the resolution. Accordingly, an issue of our ordinary shares may make it more difficult for a shareholder or potential acquirer to obtain control over our General Meeting or us.
Provisions of our franchise agreements with Hyatt might deter acquisition bids for us that shareholders might consider to be favorable and/or give Hyatt the right to terminate such agreements if certain persons obtain and retain more than a specified percentage of our ordinary shares.
Certain provisions of our franchise agreements with Hyatt may make it more difficult for certain third parties to acquire more than a specified percentage of issued ordinary shares. Our franchise agreements with Hyatt and our Articles of Association both contain a provision prohibiting (a) a Brand Owner from acquiring issued ordinary shares such that the Brand Owner (together with its affiliates) acquires beneficial ownership in excess of 15% of issued and outstanding ordinary shares, and (b) a Restricted Brand Company from acquiring issued ordinary shares such that the Restricted Brand Company (together with its affiliates) acquires beneficial ownership in excess of 5% of issued and outstanding ordinary shares. Upon becoming aware of either share cap being exceeded, we must send a notice to such shareholder informing such shareholder of a violation of this provision and granting the shareholder two weeks to dispose of such excess ordinary shares to an unaffiliated third party. Such notice will immediately trigger the transfer obligation and suspend the Shareholder Rights of ordinary shares exceeding the share cap. If such excess ordinary shares are not disposed by such time, (i) the Shareholder Rights on all ordinary shares held by the shareholder exceeding the share cap will be suspended until the transfer obligations have been complied with and (ii) we will be irrevocably authorized under our Articles of Association to transfer the excess ordinary shares to a foundation until sold to an unaffiliated third party. Our franchise agreements provide that, if the excess ordinary shares are not transferred to a foundation or an unaffiliated third party within 30 days following the earlier of the date on which a public filing is made with respect to either share cap being exceeded and the date we become aware of either share cap being exceeded, Hyatt will have the right to terminate all (but not less than all) of its franchise agreements with us by providing the notice specified in the franchise agreement to us and we will be subject to liquidated damage payments to Hyatt. In the event that any Brand Owner or Restricted Brand Company acquires any ownership interest in us, we will be required to establish and maintain controls to protect the confidentiality of certain Hyatt information and will provide Hyatt with a detailed description and evidence of such controls.

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If we fail to maintain an effective system of internal control over financial reporting, we may not be able to accurately report our financial results or prevent fraud. As a result, shareholders could lose confidence in our financial and other public reporting, which is likely to negatively affect our business and the market price of our ordinary shares.
Effective internal control over financial reporting is necessary for us to provide reliable financial reports and prevent fraud. Any failure to implement required new or improved controls, or difficulties encountered in our implementation could cause us to fail to meet our reporting obligations. In addition, any testing conducted by us, or any testing conducted by our independent registered public accounting firm, may reveal deficiencies in our internal control over financial reporting that are deemed to be material weaknesses or that may require prospective or retroactive changes to our financial statements or identify other areas for further attention or improvement. In fact, such testing has revealed a deficiency in our internal controls over financial reporting that has been deemed to be a material weakness. Inferior internal controls could also cause investors to lose confidence in our reported financial information, which is likely to negatively affect our business and the market price of our ordinary shares.
We are required to disclose changes made in our internal controls and procedures on a quarterly basis and our management is required to assess the effectiveness of these controls annually. However, for as long as we are an “emerging growth company” under the JOBS Act, our independent registered public accounting firm will not be required to attest to the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting pursuant to Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (the “Sarbanes-Oxley Act”). An independent assessment of the effectiveness of our internal controls could detect problems that our management’s assessment might not. Undetected material weaknesses in our internal controls could lead to financial statement restatements and require us to incur the expense of remediation.
The market price and trading volume of our ordinary shares may be volatile and could decline significantly.
The stock markets, including the NASDAQ Capital Market (“NASDAQ”) on which our ordinary shares are traded under the symbol “PLYA” have from time to time experienced significant price and volume fluctuations. Even if an active, liquid and orderly trading market develops and is sustained for our ordinary shares, the market price of our ordinary shares may be volatile and could decline significantly. In addition, the trading volume in our ordinary shares may fluctuate widely and cause significant price variations to occur. If the market price of our ordinary shares declines significantly, you generally will be unable to resell your ordinary shares at or above the market price of our ordinary shares and may be unable to resell your ordinary shares above the market price at which you purchased such ordinary shares. We cannot assure you that the market price of our ordinary shares will not fluctuate widely or decline significantly in the future in response to a number of factors, including, among others, the following:
•
the realization of any of the risk factors presented in this annual report;
•
actual or anticipated differences in our estimates, or in the estimates of analysts, for our revenues, Adjusted EBITDA, results of operations, level of indebtedness, liquidity or financial condition;
•
additions and departures of key personnel;
•
failure to comply with the requirements of the NASDAQ;
•
failure to comply with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act or other laws or regulations;
•
future issuances, sales or resales, or anticipated issuances, sales or resales, of our ordinary shares;
•
publication of research reports about us, our resorts, the all-inclusive segment of the lodging industry or the lodging industry generally;
•
the performance and market valuations of other similar companies;
•
broad disruptions in the financial markets, including sudden disruptions in the credit markets;
•
speculation in the press or investment community;
•
actual, potential or perceived control, accounting or reporting problems, including a failure to remediate our current material weakness in the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting in a timely manner; and
•
changes in accounting principles, policies and guidelines.

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In the past, securities class-action litigation has often been instituted against companies following periods of volatility in the market price of their shares. This type of litigation could result in substantial costs and divert our management’s attention and resources, which could have a material adverse effect on us.
Future issuances of debt securities and equity securities may adversely affect us, including the market price of our ordinary shares and may be dilutive to existing shareholders.
In the future, we may incur debt or issue equity ranking senior to our ordinary shares. Those securities will generally have priority upon liquidation. Such securities also may be governed by an indenture or other instrument containing covenants restricting its operating flexibility. Additionally, any convertible or exchangeable securities that we issue in the future may have rights, preferences and privileges more favorable than those of our ordinary shares. Because our decision to issue debt or equity in the future will depend on market conditions and other factors beyond our control, we cannot predict or estimate the amount, timing, nature or success of our future capital raising efforts. As a result, future capital raising efforts may reduce the market price of our ordinary shares and be dilutive to existing shareholders.
Our shareholders may not have any preemptive rights in respect of future issuances of our ordinary shares.
In the event of an increase in our share capital, our ordinary shareholders are generally entitled under Dutch law to full preemptive rights, unless these rights are limited or excluded either by a resolution of the General Meeting or by a resolution of our Board (if our Board has been authorized by the General Meeting for this purpose), or where shares are issued to our employees or a group company (i.e., certain affiliates, subsidiaries or related companies) or where shares are issued against a non-cash contribution, or in case of an exercise of a previously acquired right to subscribe for shares. The same preemptive rights apply when rights to subscribe for shares are granted.
Preemptive rights may be excluded by our Board on the basis of the irrevocable authorization of the General Meeting to our Board for a period of five years from the date of this authorization with respect to the issue of our ordinary shares up to the amount of the authorized share capital (from time to time). The General Meeting has delegated the authority to issue our ordinary shares and grant rights to purchase our ordinary shares up to the amount of our authorized share capital (from time to time) to our Board for that same period.
Accordingly, holders of our ordinary shares may not have any preemptive rights in connection with, and may be diluted by an issue of our ordinary shares and it may be more difficult for a shareholder to obtain control over our General Meeting. Certain of our shareholders outside the Netherlands, in particular, U.S. shareholders, may not be allowed to exercise preemptive rights to which they are entitled, if any, unless a registration statement under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), is declared effective with respect to our ordinary shares issuable upon exercise of such rights or an exemption from the registration requirements is available.
We are not obligated to and do not comply with all the best practice provisions of the Dutch Corporate Governance Code (the “DCGC”). This could adversely affect your rights as a shareholder.
As we are incorporated under Dutch law and our ordinary shares have been listed on a government-recognized stock exchange (i.e., the NASDAQ), we are subject to the DCGC. The DCGC contains both principles and best practice provisions for our Board, shareholders and the General Meeting, financial reporting, auditors, disclosure compliance and enforcement standards.
 The DCGC is based on a “comply or explain” principle. Accordingly, we are required to disclose in our annual management report publicly filed in the Netherlands, whether or not we are complying with the various provisions of the DCGC. If we do not comply with one or more of those provisions (e.g., because of a conflicting NASDAQ requirement or U.S. market practice), we are required to explain the reasons for such non-compliance in our annual management report.
We acknowledge the importance of good corporate governance. However, we do not comply with all the provisions of the DCGC, to a large extent because such provisions conflict with or are inconsistent with the corporate governance rules of the NASDAQ and U.S. securities laws that apply to us, or because we believe such provisions do not reflect customary practices of global companies listed on the NASDAQ. This could adversely affect your rights as a shareholder and you may not have the same level of protection as a shareholder in a Dutch company that fully complies with the DCGC.

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We are an “emerging growth company,” and we cannot be certain if the reduced SEC reporting requirements applicable to emerging growth companies make our ordinary shares less attractive to investors, the market price of our ordinary shares could decline significantly and the trading volume could be more volatile.
We are an “emerging growth company” as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act of 2012 (“JOBS Act”). We will remain an “emerging growth company” until the earliest to occur of (i) the last day of the fiscal year (a) following September 16, 2020, the fifth anniversary of Pace’s initial public offering, (b) in which we have total annual gross revenue of at least $1.0 billion or (c) in which we are deemed to be a large accelerated filer, which means the market value of our ordinary shares that is held by non-affiliates exceeds $700 million as of the last business day of our prior second fiscal quarter, and (ii) the date on which we have issued more than $1.0 billion in non-convertible debt during the prior three-year period. The JOBS Act also provides that an “emerging growth company” can take advantage of the extended transition period provided in the Securities Act for complying with new or revised accounting standards. However, we have chosen to “opt out” of this extended transition period and, as a result, we will comply with new or revised accounting standards on the relevant dates on which adoption of such standards is required for all public companies that are not emerging growth companies. Our decision to opt out of the extended transition period for complying with new or revised accounting standards is irrevocable. We cannot predict if investors will find our ordinary shares less attractive because we intend to rely on certain of these exemptions and benefits under the JOBS Act. If some investors find our ordinary shares less attractive as a result, there may be a less active, liquid and/or orderly trading market for our ordinary shares and the market price and trading volume of our ordinary shares may be more volatile and decline significantly.
We are incurring and will incur increased costs as a result of operating as a public company, and our management is required to devote substantial time to new compliance initiatives and corporate governance practices.
As a public company, and particularly after we are no longer an emerging growth company, we are incurring and will incur significant legal, accounting and other expenses that we did not incur as a private company. The Sarbanes-Oxley Act, the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, the listing requirements of the NASDAQ, the Dutch Financial Supervision Act, the Dutch Financial Reporting Supervision Act (Wet op het financieel toezicht), the DCGC and other applicable securities rules and rules and regulations promulgated under the foregoing impose various requirements on public companies, including establishment and maintenance of effective disclosure and financial controls and corporate governance practices. Our management and other personnel need to devote a substantial amount of time to these compliance initiatives and corporate governance practices.
These rules and regulations are often subject to varying interpretations, in many cases due to their lack of specificity, and, as a result, their application in practice may evolve over time as new guidance is provided by regulatory and governing bodies. This could result in continuing uncertainty regarding compliance matters and higher costs necessitated by ongoing revisions to disclosure and governance practices and control environment process improvements.
If, based on Mexican law, the accounting value of our ordinary shares is derived more than 50% from property in Mexico, it could result in the imposition of tax on a selling shareholder who is not eligible to claim benefits under the income tax treaty between Mexico and the United States or under any other favorable income tax treaty with Mexico.
According to article 161 of the Income Tax Law of Mexico, the transfer by a nonresident of Mexico of shares in an entity where the accounting value of the transferred shares is derived, directly or indirectly, from more than 50% from immovable property located in Mexico could be subject to Mexican income tax. The applicable Mexican law does not provide for the method to be followed in making this calculation. The income tax rate in Mexico for the disposal of shares by nonresidents is currently either 25% of the gross sale proceeds or, if certain conditions are met, 35% of the net gain. Withholding of 25% of gross sale proceeds is required of the buyer only if the latter is a Mexican resident. A Mexican nonresident subject to tax under article 161 may be eligible to claim exemption from taxation or a reduced tax rate under an applicable income tax treaty with Mexico, such as the income tax treaty between Mexico and the United States. A determination of whether the accounting value of our ordinary shares is derived, directly or indirectly, more than 50% from immovable property located in Mexico is subject to interpretations of the applicable law and will be affected by various factors with regard to us that may change over time. If, at the time of a transfer of our ordinary shares, the accounting value of our ordinary shares is derived, directly or indirectly, from more than 50% from immovable property located in Mexico and article 161 were applied to such transfer, it could result in the imposition of the above-mentioned tax on a selling shareholder who is not eligible to claim benefits under the income tax treaty between Mexico and the United States or under any other favorable income tax treaty with Mexico.
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments.

None.

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Item 2. Properties.
As of December 31, 2018, the following table presents an overview of our resorts and is organized by our four geographic business segments: the Yucatán Peninsula, the Pacific Coast, the Dominican Republic and Jamaica.
Name of Resort 
 
Location 
 
Brand and Type 
 
Operator 
 
Year Built; Significant Renovations
 
Rooms
Owned Resorts
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Yucatán Peninsula
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Hyatt Ziva Cancún
 
Cancún, Mexico
 
Hyatt Ziva (all ages)
 
Playa
 
1975; 1980; 1986; 2002; 2015
 
547
Hyatt Zilara Cancún
 
Cancún, Mexico
 
Hyatt Zilara 
(adults-only)
 
Playa
 
2006; 2009; 2013; 2017
 
307
Panama Jack Resorts Cancún
 
Cancún, Mexico
 
Panama Jack (all ages)(1)
 
Playa
 
2002; 2009; 2017
 
458
Hilton Playa del Carmen All-Inclusive Resort(2)
 
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
 
Hilton (adults-only)
 
Playa
 
1985; 2009
 
513
Panama Jack Resorts Playa del Carmen
 
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
 
Panama Jack (all ages)(1)
 
Playa
 
1996; 2006; 2012; 2017
 
287
Secrets Capri
 
Riviera Maya, Mexico
 
Secrets (adults-only)
 
AMResorts
 
2003
 
291
Dreams Puerto Aventuras
 
Riviera Maya, Mexico
 
Dreams (all ages)
 
AMResorts
 
1991; 2009
 
305
Pacific Coast
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos
 
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
 
Hyatt Ziva (all ages)
 
Playa
 
2007; 2009; 2015
 
591
Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta
 
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
 
Hyatt Ziva (all ages)
 
Playa
 
1969; 1990; 2002; 2009; 2014; 2017
 
335
Dominican Republic
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Hilton La Romana All-Inclusive Resort(2)
 
La Romana, Dominican Republic
 
Hilton (adults-only)
 
Playa(3)
 
1997; 2008
 
344
Hilton La Romana All-Inclusive Resort(2)
 
La Romana, Dominican Republic
 
Hilton (all ages)
 
Playa(3)
 
1997; 2008
 
412
Dreams Palm Beach
 
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
 
Dreams (all ages)
 
AMResorts
 
1994; 2008
 
500
Dreams Punta Cana
 
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
 
Dreams (all ages)
 
AMResorts
 
2004
 
620
Jamaica
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall 
 
Montego Bay, Jamaica
 
Hyatt Ziva (all ages)
 
Playa
 
2000; 2014; 2017
 
276
Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall
 
Montego Bay, Jamaica
 
Hyatt Zilara
(adults-only)
 
Playa
 
2000; 2014; 2017
 
344
Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa
 
Montego Bay, Jamaica
 
Hilton (all ages)
 
Playa
 
1974; 2008
 
495
Jewel Runaway Bay Beach & Golf Resort
 
Runaway Bay, Jamaica
 
Jewel (all ages)
 
Playa
 
1960; 1961; 1965; 2007; 2012
 
268
Jewel Dunn’s River Beach Resort & Spa
 
Ocho Rios, Jamaica
 
Curio by Hilton
(adults only)
 
Playa
 
1957; 1970; 1980; 2010
 
250
Jewel Paradise Cove Beach Resort & Spa
 
Runaway Bay, Jamaica
 
Curio by Hilton
(adults only)
 
Playa
 
2013
 
225
Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa(5)
 
Montego Bay, Jamaica
 
Jewel (all ages)
 
Playa
 
2016; 2017
 
88
Total Rooms Owned
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
7,456
Managed Resorts
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sanctuary Cap Cana(4) 
 
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
 
Sanctuary (adults-only)
 
Playa
 
2008; 2015; 2018
 
323
Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa(5)
 
Montego Bay, Jamaica
 
Sagicor (condo-hotel)
 
Playa
 
2016; 2017
 
129
Total Rooms Operated
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
452
Total Rooms Owned and Operated
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
7,908
    
 
(1) Pursuant to an agreement with Panama Jack, we rebranded these resorts as Panama Jack resorts in 2017.
(2) Pursuant to an agreement with Hilton, we rebranded these resorts as Hilton all-inclusive resorts in November 2018. The resorts are still owned and operated by Playa.
(3) Effective November 20, 2018, this resort was rebranded into two resorts under the Brand. We have planned renovations for 2019.
(4) Owned by a third party.
(5) We acquired an 88-unit tower and spa as part of our acquisition of the Sagicor Assets. Additionally, we manage the majority of the units within the remaining two condo-hotel towers owned by Sagicor that comprise the Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa.

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Description of Our Resorts
Playa’s Resorts in Mexico
Hyatt Ziva Cancún
Located 15 minutes from the Cancún International Airport, Hyatt Ziva Cancún is a uniquely located all-ages resort on the Yucatán peninsula at the shore point known as Punta Cancún. Following an extensive $80.8 million expansion and renovation, the resort opened in November 2015. Designed by award-winning Mexican architect Ricardo Legorreta, the resort is surrounded on three sides by water and offers direct access to three unique pristine beaches. This resort features 547 suites ranging in size from 463 to 4,381 square feet and offers over 10,700 square feet of state-of-the-art meeting and convention space, including a ballroom that can accommodate groups of up to 500 people. The surrounding grounds have been renovated with new pools, spa and fitness facilities, food and beverage outlets and additional public areas. Other new amenities include gourmet dinners in showcase venues, swim-up suites and experienced on-site event planning professionals who can organize upgrades that are responsive to a guest’s needs. The resort has received the AAA Four Diamond Award every year since 2016. The resort received Green Globe certification in 2018 and is now considered an “eco-friendly” resort under the third-party guidelines.
Hyatt Zilara Cancún
Hyatt Zilara Cancún is an adults-only luxury resort situated in the heart of Cancún’s hotel zone, approximately 15 minutes from the Cancún International Airport. Formerly THE Royal Cancún, this resort offers 600 feet of beach frontage and is in walking distance to Cancún’s shopping areas and nightlife. It offers swim-up suites and a newly renovated full-service three-story spa. This 307-room resort also offers nine restaurants, seven bars, a two-story fitness center, gift shops, billiards and an Olympic-size oceanfront infinity pool. With 6,781 square feet of meeting space, the resort can accommodate groups of up to 700 people. It has received the AAA Four Diamond Award every year since 2011 and in 2018 was awarded Green Globe certification for the work done to support the environment and the local community. The resort was awarded a Silver Travvy for Best Spa & Wellness Hotel/Resort: Mexico in 2019.
Panama Jack Resorts Cancún
Panama Jack Resorts Cancún is an all-ages resort situated in Cancún’s hotel zone approximately 15 minutes from the Cancun International Airport. The resort features 650 feet of beach frontage and is a short walk from Cancun’s shopping and nightlife. Following a $13.2 million dollar renovation, the resort was rebranded to Panama Jack Resorts in 2017 following the execution of a licensing agreement with lifestyle brand, Panama Jack. This 458-room resort offers two distinctly different pools, a water park, kids club and teen club and daily supervised recreational activities for all ages. The resort offers a variety of restaurants with eight food and beverage outlets and eight bars and lounges. In addition to a newly renovated fitness center, the resort also has full-service spa, a Panama Jack branded gift shop and business center. With 9,720 square feet of meeting space, the resort can accommodate groups of up to 800 people. The resort also houses the only oceanfront Catholic Chapel in Cancun, Our Lady of Guadeloupe. Panama Jack Resorts has received Green Globe certification in 2018, a third-party validation which certifies the resort is working toward positive environmental and social change. The same year, Panama Jack Resorts Cancún was awarded a gold Magellan for the Eco-Friendly “Green” Resort, Overall.
Hilton Playa del Carmen All-Inclusive Resort
Hilton Playa del Carmen All-Inclusive Resort is an adults-only luxury resort in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. This 513-room all-suite resort offers 500 feet of beach frontage and 13 bars and restaurants with diverse international themes. The resort includes a recently renovated fitness center, a full-service spa, beauty salon and an Olympic-size pool. With 6,888 square feet of meeting space, the resort can accommodate groups of up to 800 people. The resort is located blocks from Playa del Carmen’s “Fifth-Avenue,” which is home to nightclubs, retail shops and cafés. The resort is within walking distance from the port which provides ferry services to Cozumel. Following the announcement of a strategic alliance with Hilton in 2018, the resort was rebranded from THE Royal to Hilton Playa del Carmen All-Inclusive Resort. The resort was voted a 2018 Readers Choice Award winner by Conde Nast Traveler and the 2019 TripAdvisor Travelers Choice Award. It has also received the AAA Four Diamond Award every year since 2011 and received Green Globe certification in 2018.
Panama Jack Resorts Playa del Carmen
Panama Jack Resorts Playa del Carmen is an all-ages resort situated in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. The resort features 650 feet of beach frontage and is approximately 30 minutes from the Cancún International Airport. This 287-room resort offers eight food and beverage outlets and seven bars and lounges. The recently renovated property touts two distinctly different pools, a completely

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renovated fitness center, full-service spa, teens club, kids club and wedding gazebo. With 1,755 square feet of meeting space, the resort can accommodate groups of up to 150 people. Pursuant to an agreement with Panama Jack, the resort was rebranded and completely renovated with a completion date of December 2018. It is located in walking distance to Playa del Carmen’s “Fifth-Avenue” shops and the port that provides ferry services to Cozumel. The resort received Green Globe certification in 2018 and is now considered an “eco-friendly” resort under the third-party guidelines.
Secrets Capri
Secrets Capri is an adults-only luxury resort situated in the Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen, Mexico, which has received the AAA Four Diamond Award every year from 2007 through 2018. It also received TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence in 2015. It features 650 feet of beach frontage and is located five minutes by car from the shops at Playa del Carmen and 35 minutes by car from Cancún International Airport. The 291-room resort offers a fitness center, spa, beauty salon, deep sea fishing, private tennis clinics and a music lounge. The resort has seven food and beverage outlets, with diverse international themes, and four bars and lounges. The resort also features complimentary golf at Playa Mujeres Golf Club and Cancún Golf Club at Pok-ta-Pok. With 4,134 square feet of meeting space, the resort can accommodate groups of up to 350 people.
Dreams Puerto Aventuras
Dreams Puerto Aventuras is an all-ages resort located within a gated marina community situated close to Playa del Carmen on the Mexican coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. The resort features 800 feet of beach frontage. This 305-room resort offers one of the largest dolphinariums in the Riviera Maya, fitness center, spa and beauty salon, indoor theater, kids club, salt water pool, adults-only pool and jacuzzi. This resort also offers a Gold Palm Certified PADI diving center, galleria market shops at the marina community and a golf course. The resort has six food and beverage outlets, with diverse international themes, and five bars and lounges. With 2,024 square feet of meeting space, the resort can accommodate groups of up to 120 people. The resort also has an indoor theatre that can accommodate groups of up to 250 people.
Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos
Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos is an all-ages resort located in San Jose del Cabo, offering spectacular views of the Sea of Cortez. This all-suite resort features 650 feet of beach frontage and is 20 minutes from Los Cabos International Airport. Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos offers 591 suites ranging from a 550 square-foot junior suite to a 1,950 square-foot Presidential Suite. The resort also offers swim-up suites, a fitness center, a business center, a large theater presenting live music and nightly shows, a kids club with water park, a teen zone, tennis and basketball courts, three large scale pools and a full-service spa. It also features eight food and beverage outlets and four bars and lounges. With more than 35,000 square feet of state-of-the-art meeting space, the resort can accommodate groups of up to 1,100 people. The resort has been recognized with AAA Four Diamond status every year since in 2014. It has also received TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence every year since 2015. Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos received Green Globe certification in 2018, a third-party validation which certifies the resort is working toward positive environmental and social change and is considered an “eco-friendly” resort as a result herein.
Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta
Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta is an all-ages resort situated in Puerto Vallarta’s Conchas Chinas with the only private beach, known as Las Estacas, offering 1,250 feet of private beach frontage. Located five minutes from downtown Puerto Vallarta, the resort opened in December 2014 under the Hyatt Ziva brand after an extensive $15.9 million expansion and renovation of the former Dreams. The all-suite resort’s 335 suites range from 473 to 1,500 square feet and tout significant room renovations and upgrades including new swim-up suites. The resort features a new lobby and public areas, three new food and beverage outlets and a new upscale oceanfront spa. The resort offers state-of-the-art business facilities, with available meeting and convention space exceeding 9,900 square feet that can accommodate groups of up to 900 people. The resort has been awarded the AAA Four Diamond Award every year since 2015 and in 2018 received Green Globe certification.
Playa’s Resorts in the Dominican Republic
Hilton La Romana All-Inclusive Resorts
The previously flagged Dreams La Romana was rebranded into two resorts under the Brand in November 2018. The Hilton La Romana All-Inclusive Family Resort and the Hilton La Romana All-Inclusive Adult Resort are located in the Bayahibe section of La Romana in the Dominican Republic and offer a combined 756 rooms on 1,500 feet of beach frontage. The two resorts feature 10 food and beverage outlets with diverse international themes and seven bars and lounges. Additional amenities include four infinity pools, a casino, a full-service spa, a fitness center, an outdoor theater, kids club, teen club and a PADI diving center. The

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resorts also offer three golf courses designed by the architect Pete B. Dye. With the only convention center in Bayahibe, featuring 11,072 square feet of meeting space, these resorts can accommodate groups of up to 975 people. Nearby attractions include Altos de Chavon, Saona, Catalina Islands and shopping. In 2018, this resort received the Trip Advisor Traveler’s Choice award.
Dreams Palm Beach
Dreams Palm Beach is an all-ages resort situated in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic that has received the AAA Four Diamond Award every year since 2011. This resort features 650 feet of beach frontage and is located 20 minutes by car from Punta Cana International Airport. This 500-room resort offers three outdoor pools, a renovated spa, a casino, horseback riding, children’s club, teens’ club, an indoor theater and a music lounge. It also offers access to two golf courses that are 15 minutes by car from the resort. The resort has seven food and beverage outlets, with diverse international themes, and five bars and lounges. With 7,856 square feet of meeting space, the resort can accommodate groups of up to 760 people.
Playa’s prior parent acquired Dreams Palm Beach, formerly the Allegro Punta Cana, in 2007 for $52 million, or $104,000 per room. Following the acquisition, Playa invested $30 million, or $60,000 per room, to rebrand the property as Dreams Palm Beach and expand, renovate and reposition the resort, including expansion of the lobby and addition of a casino, convention center, restaurant and bars. Playa also renovated the existing building, public areas and all of the rooms. Following a six-month renovation in 2008, Net Package RevPAR (as defined in Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations) increased from $98 in 2009 to $131 in 2013, an increase of 33.8%.
Dreams Punta Cana
Dreams Punta Cana is an all-ages resort situated on Uvero Alto on the northeast coast of the Dominican Republic. This resort has received the AAA Four Diamond Award every year from 2011 through 2018. It features 650 feet of beach frontage. This 620-room resort offers a free-form pool, night club, oceanfront bars, kids club, teen club, spa, fitness center, indoor theater, shopping galleria and supervised daily children’s activities. It also offers a PADI diving center, casino, horseback riding and a large meeting space for group activities. The resort has six food and beverage outlets, with diverse international themes, and ten bars and lounges. With 4,133 square feet of meeting space, the resort can accommodate groups of up to 300 people.
Playa’s Resorts in Jamaica
Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall and Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall
Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall is a AAA Four Diamond Resort catering to guests of all ages. The resort which reopened in 2014 under the Hyatt Ziva brand includes 276 suites including premium swim up suites, with oversized terraces featuring garden or ocean views. With 25,000 square feet of beach frontage, the resort also provides guests access to pools, a swim-up bar and a daily activity schedule which includes non-motorized water sports. The resort opened a brand new two-story fitness center in 2018 and offers guest access to a full-service spa and beauty salon. The resort houses seven food and beverage outlets and six bars and lounges for guests to choose from. In 2018, Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall was certified by Green Globe as an eco-friendly resort.
Reopened under the Hyatt Zilara brand in 2014, Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall is a AAA Four Diamond Resort catering to adults. Located on the coast and overlooking the Jamaican Blue Mountains, this resort has 344 guest suites, including 61 swim-up suites. Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall features five food and beverage outlets including bars and lounges. In addition to having access to the adjacent Hyatt Ziva restaurants and amenities, guests of Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall can enjoy adult-oriented amenities, including a private beach, contemporary private pools, a pool bar, a fitness center inclusive of tennis courts and dedicated spa renovated in 2017. Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall was recognized in 2015 by Caribbean Journal as one of the top 13 all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean. The resort also received the Magellan Gold Grand Opening Award from Travel Weekly in 2016 and a Silver Travvy in 2019 for Best All-Inclusive Resort for Honeymoons. The resort also received the distinction of becoming a Green Globe certified resort in 2018.
Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa
Acquired from Sagicor in June 2018, Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa is a 495-room all-ages resort situated on the legendary 18th century Rose Hall Estate and Cinnamon Hill Golf Course in Montego Bay. Fifteen minutes from Sangster International Airport, Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa offers guest 2,500 feet of private beach frontage, two pools inclusive of a water park with a lazy river and a robust kids and teen zone. The resort also has an oceanfront spa and fitness center. The resort has seven food and beverage outlets and six bars and lounges. With 44,000 square feet of modern indoor and outdoor event space, Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa can accommodate groups up to 800 guests. Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa was awarded the Travelers Choice Award from TripAdvisor in 2018 and 2019.

40

Jewel Runaway Bay Beach & Golf Resort
Acquired as part of the Sagicor transaction in June 2018, Jewel Runaway Bay Beach & Golf Resort is an all ages resort is surrounded by 22 acres of lush landscaping and is home to an 18-hole 72 par Runaway Bay Golf Club. The resort has 268 rooms with square footage ranging from 300 to 475, including 62 connecting rooms, ideal for families. The resort which is home to the largest waterpark in Jamaica, also offers amenities such as a kids club including a recording studio, teens club and nightly theatre-style entertainment. Jewel Runaway Bay Beach & Golf Resort has eight food and beverage outlets and six bars and lounges, including dinner shows and non-traditional dining options. Catering to leisure guests, the resort includes a full-service spa, fitness center and beauty salon on premises. Conference facilities can accommodate groups ranging from 12 to 250 people. The resort was awarded the 2019 Travelers Choice Award from TripAdvisor.
Jewel Dunn’s River Beach Resort & Spa
Jewel Dunn’s River Beach Resort & Spa is a 250-room, adults-only resort, one mile away from Dunn’s River Falls, one of Jamaica’s most popular tourist attractions. Playa acquired this resort from Sagicor in June 2018. Resort amenities include two pools with swim-up bar, water sports, spa, fitness center and basketball, volleyball and tennis courts. The property features six gourmet food and beverage outlets and five bars and lounges including a nightclub. Well-appointed conference facilities can accommodate groups up to 300 people.
Jewel Paradise Cove Beach Resort & Spa
Jewel Paradise Cove Beach Resort & Spa is a 225-room, adults-only resort. Playa acquired this resort from Sagicor in June 2018. The resort’s amenities include three pools with swim-up bar, three whirlpools, three tennis courts, a fitness center and Jamaica’s only oceanfront two-story spa. The property offers seven restaurants and six bars including a nightclub plus 3,000 square feet of meeting facilities accommodating smaller meeting and incentive groups up to 150 people.
Resorts Playa Manages for Third Parties
Sanctuary Cap Cana
In September 2017, Playa entered into a long-term agreement to manage Sanctuary Cap Cana in the Dominican Republic. The management contract term is 15 years with two optional extensions of five years. In connection with the execution of the management contract, we acquired the rights that the owner of the resort had to the Sanctuary brand and are negotiating an option to acquire 30% of the equity interest in the resort upon completion of its expansion and renovation.
Located in Cap Cana, a 30,000-acre master-planned luxury resort community in Punta Cana, the hotel is spread across a 20.7-acre site with over 2,100 linear feet of waterfront and features 323 rooms, including 27 luxury villas, nine restaurants, an ice cream shop and eight bars. The hotel was built in 2008 and the owner funded a full renovation of the existing rooms and construction of 139 additional rooms in 2018. The hotel closed in May 2018 and reopened in September 2018 followed by the opening of two new towers in December 2018. The resort received the AAA Four Diamond Award in 2018 and a 2019 Gold Travvy for Best Luxury Hotel/Resort - Caribbean/Bahamas.
Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa
Playa took over the management agreement for Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa as part of the transaction with Sagicor in June 2018. This partially owned and managed resort, Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa, is an all-ages property located on a private cove less than 20 minutes from Sangster International Airport. The resort is comprised of three towers offering a total of 217 guest rooms including three-bedroom villas as large as 4,397 square feet. 88 of the rooms, all junior suites, are owned by Playa. Most rooms include fully equipped kitchens and washers and dryers. The resort includes 67,000 square feet of beach frontage, a freestanding, full-service spa (owned by Playa), private beachside cabanas and two oceanfront swimming pools. Providing guests 14 food and beverage outlets including bars and lounges, the resort also offers a kids club, a teens club and a daily activity schedule inclusive of non-motorized water sports. The resort boasts over 25,000 square feet of meeting space and can accommodate groups up to 600 people. Recently awarded a 2019 Silver Travvy for Best All-Inclusive Luxury Resort - Caribbean/Bahamas and three 2018 Magellan Awards for Spa Design - Gold for Grande Spa, Room Design - Silver for the Villa Suites and Hospitality Marketing - Silver.

41

Resort Development
Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana
In July 2017, we acquired a premier beach front land parcel for the new Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana and Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Upon completion, we expect the resorts will have 750 rooms, which will all have pool and beach views. The resort will feature around 23,000 square feet of meeting facilities, including a 16,000 square feet ballroom, a festive retail area, a commercial area, a dining village with an amphitheater, a waterpark, a spa and a 13,000 square foot fitness facility. As of December 31, 2018, we have spent approximately $96.3 million on the project, excluding the cost of the land, and our estimated budget for the project, excluding the cost of the land, is $202.0 million. We expect the new resorts will open in the fourth quarter of 2019.
Item 3. Legal Proceedings.

In the ordinary course of our business, we are subject to claims and administrative proceedings, none of which we believe are material or would be expected to have, individually or in the aggregate, a material adverse effect on our financial condition, cash flows or results of operations. The outcome of claims, lawsuits and legal proceedings brought against us, however, is subject to significant uncertainties. Refer to Note 8 to our financial statements included in “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” of this Form 10-K for a more detailed description of such proceedings and contingencies.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures.

Not Applicable.
PART II
Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.
Our ordinary shares have been traded on NASDAQ under the symbol “PLYA” since March 13, 2017.
Shareholder Information
As of February 22, 2019, we had 130,501,941 ordinary shares outstanding that were held by approximately 45 shareholders of record, which does not include Depository Trust Company participants, beneficial owners holding shares through nominee names or our employees holding restricted shares granted pursuant to our 2017 Plan (as defined in Note 11 to the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements) that have not vested.
Dividend Policy
We have never paid cash dividends on our ordinary shares and we do not anticipate paying cash dividends in the foreseeable future. In addition, payments of dividends are restricted by our Senior Secured Credit Facility. We currently intend to retain any earnings for future operations and expansion. Any future determination to pay dividends will be at the discretion of shareholders at a General Meeting, subject to a proposal from our Board, and will depend on our actual and projected financial condition, liquidity and results of operations, capital requirements, prohibitions and other restrictions contained in current or future financing instruments and applicable law, and such other factors as our Board deems relevant.


42

Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plan
The following table sets forth information regarding securities authorized for issuance under our equity compensation plan, our 2017 Omnibus Incentive Plan, as of December 31, 2018. See Note 11 to the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding our 2017 Omnibus Incentive Plan.
Plan Category
 
Number of securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights
 
Weighted-average exercise price of outstanding options, warrants and rights
 
Number of securities remaining for future issuance under equity compensation plans
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders
 
—

 
—

 
1,162,129
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders
 
—

 
—

 
—

Total
 
—

 
—

 
1,162,129
Performance Graph
The graph below compares the cumulative total return for our ordinary shares from March 13, 2017 through December 31, 2018 with the comparable cumulative return of three indices: the Dow Jones United States Travel and Leisure Index (“DOW JONES US TRAVEL & LEISURE”), the NASDAQ Composite Index (“NASDAQ”), and the Russell 2000 Index (“RUSSELL 2000”). The graph assumes $100 invested on March 13, 2017 in our ordinary shares and the three indices presented.
a2018performancegraph.jpg
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
On June 1, 2018, we issued 20,000,000 of our ordinary shares in an offering not involving general solicitation to an affiliate of Sagicor, who is a non-U.S. person, with a partial consideration for our acquisition of the Sagicor Assets, which ordinary shares were not registered under the Securities Act at the time of issue in reliance upon the exemption provided in Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act, Regulation D promulgated thereunder and/or Regulation S. The resale of these ordinary shares was subsequently registered with the SEC pursuant to a Registration Statement on Form S-3, filed with the SEC on June 20, 2018 and declared effective on August 3, 2018.

43

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
The following table sets forth information regarding our purchases of shares of our common stock during the quarter ended December 31, 2018:
 
 
Total number of shares purchased
 
Average price paid per share (1)
 
Total number of shares purchased as part of publicly announced program (2)
 
Maximum approximate dollar value of shares that may yet be purchased under the program
($ in thousands) (2)
October 1, 2018 to October 31, 2018
 
—

 
$
—

 
—

 
$
—

November 1, 2018 to November 30, 2018
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

December 1, 2018 to December 31, 2018
 
47,241

 
6.65

 
47,241

 
99,686

Total
 
47,241

 
$
6.65

 
47,241

 
$
99,686

_______
(1) The average price paid per share and maximum approximate dollar value of shares disclosed above include broker commissions.
(2) In December 2018, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $100.0 million of its outstanding ordinary shares as market conditions and our liquidity warrant. Repurchases may be made from time to time in the open market, in privately negotiated transactions or by other means (including Rule 10b5-1 trading plans). Depending on market conditions and other factors, these repurchases may be commenced or suspended from time to time without prior notice.
Item 6. Selected Financial Data.
The following table includes selected historical financial information which has been derived from the audited Consolidated Financial Statements. The following information should be read in conjunction with “Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” and all of the financial statements and notes included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Consolidated Statement of Operations Data ($ in thousands, except per share data):
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
     2018 (1)
 
2017
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Total revenue
$
617,013

 
$
559,545

 
$
521,491

 
$
408,345

 
$
367,237

Operating income (loss) (2)
90,597

 
88,669

 
84,631

 
58,692

 
(13,457
)
Net income (loss)
18,977

 
(241
)
 
20,216

 
9,711

 
(38,216
)
Net income (loss) available to ordinary shareholders
18,977

 
(9,042
)
 
(23,460
)
 
(29,946
)
 
(74,207
)
Earnings (losses) per share - Basic (3)
$
0.16

 
$
(0.09
)
 
$
(0.46
)
 
$
(0.59
)
 
$
(1.41
)
Earnings (losses) per share - Diluted (3)
$
0.16

 
$
(0.09
)
 
$
(0.46
)
 
$
(0.59
)
 
$
(1.41
)
________
(1) 
Includes the results of operations of the Sagicor Assets (as defined in Note 4 of the Consolidated Financial Statements included herein) acquired in the business combination with certain companies affiliated with Sagicor Group Jamaica Limited.
(2) 
Prior year amounts were reclassified to reflect the adoption of Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2017-07 Compensation—Retirement Benefits (Topic 715): Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost in 2017.
(3) 
As a result of the Pace Business Combination further described in Note 4 of the Consolidated Financial Statements included herein, the number of ordinary shares attributable to our Predecessor shareholders is reflected retroactively to the earliest period presented. Accordingly, the weighted-average number of shares outstanding was adjusted for the retrospective application of the recapitalization for all periods prior to 2017.

44

Consolidated Balance Sheet Data ($ in thousands):
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
     2018 (1)
 
2017
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Property and equipment, net
$
1,808,412

 
$
1,466,326

 
$
1,400,317

 
$
1,432,855

 
$
1,338,997

Cash and cash equivalents
116,353

 
117,229

 
33,512

 
35,460

 
39,146

Total assets
2,135,158

 
1,737,823

 
1,590,890

 
1,644,024

 
1,545,121

Total debt
989,387

 
898,215

 
828,317

 
828,438

 
753,105

Total liabilities
1,295,317

 
1,138,274

 
1,074,336

 
1,098,034

 
1,008,358

Cumulative redeemable preferred shares
—

 
—

 
345,951

 
352,275

 
312,618

Total equity (excluding preferred shares)
$
839,841

 
$
599,549

 
$
170,603

 
$
193,715

 
$
224,145

________
(1) 
Includes the Sagicor Assets.
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flow Data ($ in thousands):
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
     2018 (1)
 
2017
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Net cash provided by (used in):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating activities (1)
$
114,430

 
$
64,191

 
$
76,181

 
$
30,799

 
$
3,715

Investing activities (1)
(204,586
)
 
(109,829
)
 
(19,046
)
 
(104,147
)
 
(110,079
)
Financing activities
89,280

 
119,704

 
(55,815
)
 
69,662

 
68,447

Capital expenditures
$
(110,851
)
 
$
(106,230
)
 
$
(19,262
)
 
$
(119,704
)
 
$
(131,511
)
________
(1) 
Includes the results of operations of the Sagicor Assets.
(2) 
Prior year amounts were reclassified to reflect the adoption of ASU 2016-18, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Restricted Cash in 2017.
Any reference in this Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations to our financial condition and results of operations prior to the Pace Business Combination on March 11, 2017 refer to the financial condition and results of operations of our Predecessor, Playa Hotels & Resorts B.V.
Overview
Playa is a leading owner, operator and developer of all-inclusive resorts in prime beachfront locations in popular vacation destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean. As of December 31, 2018, we owned and/or managed a total portfolio consisting of 21 resorts (7,908 rooms) located in Mexico, Jamaica and the Dominican Republic. Playa’s strategy is to leverage its globally recognized brand partnerships in order to capitalize on the gap between the 14% U.S. brand affiliated room supply in the regions in which we operate and the nearly 45% of visitors that come from the U.S. This strategy should drive outsized returns for our shareholders and enhance the lives of our associates and the communities in which we operate.

45

Our Portfolio of Resorts
The following table presents an overview of our resorts as of December 31, 2018. None of the resorts we own individually contributed more than 12.8% of our Total Net Revenue or 19.7% of our consolidated Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2018. The table below is organized by our four geographic business segments: the Yucatán Peninsula, the Pacific Coast, the Dominican Republic and Jamaica.
Name of Resort 
 
Location 
 
Brand and Type 
 
Operator 
 
Year Built; Significant Renovations
 
Rooms
Owned Resorts
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Yucatán Peninsula
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Hyatt Ziva Cancún
 
Cancún, Mexico
 
Hyatt Ziva (all ages)
 
Playa
 
1975; 1980; 1986; 2002; 2015
 
547
Hyatt Zilara Cancún
 
Cancún, Mexico
 
Hyatt Zilara 
(adults-only)
 
Playa
 
2006; 2009; 2013; 2017
 
307
Panama Jack Resorts Cancún
 
Cancún, Mexico
 
Panama Jack (all ages)(1)
 
Playa
 
2002; 2009; 2017
 
458
Hilton Playa del Carmen All-Inclusive Resort(2)
 
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
 
Hilton (adults-only)
 
Playa
 
1985; 2009
 
513
Panama Jack Resorts Playa del Carmen
 
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
 
Panama Jack (all ages)(1)
 
Playa
 
1996; 2006; 2012; 2017
 
287
Secrets Capri
 
Riviera Maya, Mexico
 
Secrets (adults-only)
 
AMResorts
 
2003
 
291
Dreams Puerto Aventuras
 
Riviera Maya, Mexico
 
Dreams (all ages)
 
AMResorts
 
1991; 2009
 
305
Pacific Coast
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos
 
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
 
Hyatt Ziva (all ages)
 
Playa
 
2007; 2009; 2015
 
591
Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta
 
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
 
Hyatt Ziva (all ages)
 
Playa
 
1969; 1990; 2002; 2009; 2014; 2017
 
335
Dominican Republic
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Hilton La Romana All-Inclusive Resort(2)
 
La Romana, Dominican Republic
 
Hilton (adults-only)
 
Playa(3)
 
1997; 2008
 
344
Hilton La Romana All-Inclusive Resort(2)
 
La Romana, Dominican Republic
 
Hilton (all ages)
 
Playa(3)
 
1997; 2008
 
412
Dreams Palm Beach
 
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
 
Dreams (all ages)
 
AMResorts
 
1994; 2008
 
500
Dreams Punta Cana
 
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
 
Dreams (all ages)
 
AMResorts
 
2004
 
620
Jamaica
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall 
 
Montego Bay, Jamaica
 
Hyatt Ziva (all ages)
 
Playa
 
2000; 2014; 2017
 
276
Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall
 
Montego Bay, Jamaica
 
Hyatt Zilara
(adults-only)
 
Playa
 
2000; 2014; 2017
 
344
Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa
 
Montego Bay, Jamaica
 
Hilton (all ages)
 
Playa
 
1974; 2008
 
495
Jewel Runaway Bay Beach & Golf Resort
 
Runaway Bay, Jamaica
 
Jewel (all ages)
 
Playa
 
1960; 1961; 1965; 2007; 2012
 
268
Jewel Dunn’s River Beach Resort & Spa
 
Ocho Rios, Jamaica
 
Curio by Hilton
(adults only)
 
Playa
 
1957; 1970; 1980; 2010
 
250
Jewel Paradise Cove Beach Resort & Spa
 
Runaway Bay, Jamaica
 
Curio by Hilton
(adults only)
 
Playa
 
2013
 
225
Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa(5)
 
Montego Bay, Jamaica
 
Jewel (all ages)
 
Playa
 
2016; 2017
 
88
Total Rooms Owned
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
7,456
Managed Resorts
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sanctuary Cap Cana(4) 
 
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
 
Sanctuary (adults-only)
 
Playa
 
2008; 2015; 2018
 
323
Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa(5)
 
Montego Bay, Jamaica
 
Sagicor (condo-hotel)
 
Playa
 
2016; 2017
 
129
Total Rooms Operated
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
452
Total Rooms Owned and Operated
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
7,908
________
(1) Pursuant to an agreement with Panama Jack, we rebranded these resorts as Panama Jack resorts in 2017.
(2) Pursuant to an agreement with Hilton, we rebranded these resorts as Hilton all-inclusive resorts in November 2018. The resorts are still owned and operated by Playa.
(3) Effective November 20, 2018, this resort was rebranded into two resorts under the Brand. We have planned renovations for 2019.
(4) Owned by a third party.
(5) We acquired an 88-unit tower and spa as part of our acquisition of the Sagicor Assets. Additionally, we manage the majority of the units within the remaining two condo-hotel towers owned by Sagicor that comprise the Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa.

46

Results of Operations

Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
The following table summarizes our results of operations on a consolidated basis for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 ($ in thousands):
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
Increase / Decrease
 
2018
 
2017
 
Change
 
% Change
Revenue:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Package
$
532,090

 
$
481,175

 
$
50,915

 
10.6
 %
Non-package
83,190

 
78,230

 
4,960

 
6.3
 %
Management fees
755

 
140

 
615

 
439.3
 %
Cost reimbursements
978

 
—

 
978

 
100.0
 %
Total revenue
617,013

 
559,545

 
57,468

 
10.3
 %
Direct and selling, general and administrative expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Direct
340,080

 
310,048

 
30,032

 
9.7
 %
Selling, general and administrative
115,975

 
108,176

 
7,799

 
7.2
 %
Pre-opening
321

 
—

 
321

 
100.0
 %
Depreciation and amortization
73,278

 
53,131

 
20,147

 
37.9
 %
Reimbursed costs
978

 
—

 
978

 
100.0
 %
Gain on insurance proceeds
(4,216
)
 
(479
)
 
(3,737
)
 
780.2
 %
Direct and selling, general and administrative expenses
526,416

 
470,876

 
55,540

 
11.8
 %
Operating income
90,597

 
88,669

 
1,928

 
2.2
 %
Interest expense
(62,243
)
 
(53,661
)
 
(8,582
)
 
16.0
 %
Loss on extinguishment of debt
—

 
(25,120
)
 
25,120

 
(100.0
)%
Other income (expense)
2,822

 
(1,078
)
 
3,900

 
(361.8
)%
Net income before tax
31,176

 
8,810

 
22,366

 
253.9
 %
Income tax provision
(12,199
)
 
(9,051
)
 
(3,148
)
 
34.8
 %
Net income (loss)
$
18,977

 
$
(241
)
 
$
19,218

 
(7,974.3
)%
    
The tables below set forth information with respect to our Occupancy, Net Package ADR, Net Package RevPAR, Net Package Revenue, Net Non-package Revenue, Management Fee Revenue, Total Net Revenue, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin. For a description of these operating metrics and non-U.S. GAAP measures, see “Key Indicators of Financial and Operating Performance,” below. For discussions of Adjusted EBITDA and reconciliation to the most comparable U.S. GAAP financial measures, see “Key Indicators of Financial and Operating Performance” and “Non-U.S. GAAP Financial Measures,” below.
Our comparable resorts for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 exclude the following: Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa, Jewel Runaway Bay Beach & Golf Resort, Jewel Dunn’s River Beach Resort & Spa, and Jewel Paradise Cove Beach Resort & Spa, which we purchased on June 1, 2018.


47

Total Portfolio
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
Increase / Decrease
 
2018
 
2017
 
Change 
 
% Change
Occupancy
81.8
%
 
81.4
%
 
0.4
 pts
 
0.5
 %
Net Package ADR
$
251.76

 
$
256.93

 
$
(5.17
)
 
(2.0
)%
Net Package RevPAR
205.83

 
209.27

 
(3.44
)
 
(1.6
)%
 
($ in thousands)
 
 
Net Package Revenue
$
514,810

 
$
468,434

 
$
46,376

 
9.9
 %
Net Non-package Revenue
83,044

 
77,637

 
5,407

 
7.0
 %
Management Fee Revenue
755

 
140

 
615

 
439.3
 %
Total Net Revenue
598,609

 
546,211

 
52,398

 
9.6
 %
Adjusted EBITDA
$
179,031

 
$
170,865

 
$
8,166

 
4.8
 %
Adjusted EBITDA Margin
29.9
%
 
31.3
%
 
(1.4
)pts
 
(4.5
)%
Comparable Portfolio
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
Increase / Decrease
 
2018
 
2017
 
Change 
 
% Change
Occupancy
82.3
%
 
81.4
%
 
0.9
 pts
 
1.1
 %
Net Package ADR
$
255.83

 
$
256.93

 
$
(1.10
)
 
(0.4
)%
Net Package RevPAR
210.49

 
209.27

 
1.22

 
0.6
 %
 
($ in thousands)
 
 
Net Package Revenue
$
470,960

 
$
468,434

 
$
2,526

 
0.5
 %
Net Non-package Revenue
76,058

 
77,637

 
(1,579
)
 
(2.0
)%
Management Fee Revenue
755

 
140

 
615

 
439.3
 %
Total Net Revenue
547,773

 
546,211

 
1,562

 
0.3
 %
Adjusted EBITDA
$
168,598

 
$
170,865

 
$
(2,267
)
 
(1.3
)%
Adjusted EBITDA Margin
30.8
%
 
31.3
%
 
(0.5
)pts
 
(1.6
)%
Total Revenue and Total Net Revenue    
Our total revenue for the year ended December 31, 2018 increased $57.5 million, or 10.3%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2017. Our Total Net Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2018 increased $52.4 million, or 9.6%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2017. This increase was driven primarily by an increase in Net Package Revenue of $46.4 million, or 9.9%, and an increase in Net Non-package Revenue of $5.4 million, or 7.0%. The Sagicor Assets contributed $50.8 million in Total Net Revenue.

48

The following table shows a reconciliation of comparable Net Package Revenue, Net Non-package Revenue and Management Fee Revenue to total revenue for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 ($ in thousands):
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
Increase/Decrease
 
2018
 
2017
 
Change 
 
% Change
Net Package Revenue
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Comparable Net Package Revenue
$
470,960

 
$
468,434

 
$
2,526

 
0.5
 %
Non-comparable Net Package Revenue
43,850

 
—

 
43,850

 
100.0
 %
Net Package Revenue
514,810

 
468,434

 
46,376

 
9.9
 %
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net Non-package Revenue
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Comparable Net Non-package Revenue
76,058

 
77,637

 
(1,579
)
 
(2.0
)%
Non-comparable Net Non-package Revenue
6,986

 
—

 
6,986

 
100.0
 %
Net Non-package Revenue
83,044

 
77,637

 
5,407

 
7.0
 %
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Management Fee Revenue
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Comparable Management Fee Revenue
755

 
140

 
615

 
439.3
 %
Non-comparable Management Fee Revenue
—

 
—

 
—

 
—
 %
Management Fee Revenue
755

 
140

 
615

 
439.3
 %
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total Net Revenue
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Comparable Total Net Revenue
547,773

 
546,211

 
1,562

 
0.3
 %
Non-comparable Total Net Revenue
50,836

 
—

 
50,836

 
100.0
 %
Total Net Revenue
598,609

 
546,211

 
52,398

 
9.6
 %
Compulsory tips
17,426

 
13,334

 
4,092

 
30.7
 %
Cost reimbursements
978

 
—

 
978

 
100.0
 %
Total revenue
$
617,013

 
$
559,545

 
$
57,468

 
10.3
 %
Direct Expenses
The following table shows a reconciliation of our direct expenses to net direct expenses for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 ($ in thousands):
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
Increase/Decrease
 
2018
 
2017
 
Change 
 
% Change
Direct expenses
$
340,080

 
$
310,048

 
$
30,032

 
9.7
%
Less: compulsory tips
17,426

 
13,334

 
4,092

 
30.7
%
Net direct expenses
$
322,654

 
$
296,714

 
$
25,940

 
8.7
%
Our direct expenses include resort expenses, such as food and beverage, salaries and wages, utilities and other ongoing operational expenses. Our net direct expenses for the year ended December 31, 2018 were $322.7 million, or 53.9%, of Total Net Revenue and $296.7 million, or 54.3%, of Total Net Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2017.
Net direct expenses for the year ended December 31, 2018 increased $25.9 million, or 8.7%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2017. Net direct expenses increased primarily due to the acquisition of the Sagicor Assets, which accounted for $33.9 million of the change, which was offset by the $8.0 million decrease in net direct expenses as shown in the Comparable Portfolio table below. Direct operating expenses fluctuate based on various factors, including changes in occupancy, labor costs, utilities, repair and maintenance costs and license and property taxes. Management fees and franchise fees, which are computed as a percentage of revenue, increase as a result of higher revenues.

49


Net direct expenses consists of the following ($ in thousands):

Total Portfolio
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
Increase/Decrease
 
2018
 
2017
 
Change 
 
% Change
Direct expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Food and beverages
$
79,445

 
$
76,550

 
$
2,895

 
3.8
 %
Guest costs
13,822

 
1,564

 
12,258

 
783.8
 %
Resort salary and wages
117,209

 
102,298

 
14,911

 
14.6
 %
Repairs and maintenance
15,826

 
15,406

 
420

 
2.7
 %
Utility expenses
35,344

 
29,446

 
5,898

 
20.0
 %
Licenses and property taxes
3,118

 
3,241

 
(123
)
 
(3.8
)%
Incentive and management fees
10,848

 
11,349

 
(501
)
 
(4.4
)%
Franchise/license fees
18,839

 
14,105

 
4,734

 
33.6
 %
Transportation and travel expenses
4,464

 
4,498

 
(34
)
 
(0.8
)%
Laundry and cleaning expenses
4,322

 
2,539

 
1,783

 
70.2
 %
Property and equipment rental expense
5,169

 
4,264

 
905

 
21.2
 %
Entertainment expenses
7,336

 
3,575

 
3,761

 
105.2
 %
Office supplies
2,346

 
4,492

 
(2,146
)
 
(47.8
)%
Other operational expenses
4,566

 
23,387

 
(18,821
)
 
(80.5
)%
Total net direct expenses
$
322,654

 
$
296,714

 
$
25,940

 
8.7
 %
Comparable Portfolio
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
Increase/Decrease
 
2018
 
2017
 
Change 
 
% Change
Direct expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Food and beverages
$
69,134

 
$
76,550

 
$
(7,416
)
 
(9.7
)%
Guest costs
11,936

 
1,564

 
10,372

 
663.2
 %
Resort salary and wages
108,435

 
102,298

 
6,137

 
6.0
 %
Repairs and maintenance
13,160

 
15,406

 
(2,246
)
 
(14.6
)%
Utility expenses
30,420

 
29,446

 
974

 
3.3
 %
Licenses and property taxes
2,996

 
3,241

 
(245
)
 
(7.6
)%
Incentive and management fees
10,848

 
11,349

 
(501
)
 
(4.4
)%
Franchise/license fees
16,750

 
14,105

 
2,645

 
18.8
 %
Transportation and travel expenses
3,726

 
4,498

 
(772
)
 
(17.2
)%
Laundry and cleaning expenses
3,242

 
2,539

 
703

 
27.7
 %
Property and equipment rental expense
4,806

 
4,264

 
542

 
12.7
 %
Entertainment expenses
6,738

 
3,575

 
3,163

 
88.5
 %
Office supplies
2,264

 
4,492

 
(2,228
)
 
(49.6
)%
Other operational expenses
4,289

 
23,387

 
(19,098
)
 
(81.7
)%
Total net direct expenses
$
288,744

 
$
296,714

 
$
(7,970
)
 
(2.7
)%
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
Our selling, general and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2018 increased $7.8 million, or 7.2%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2017. This increase was primarily driven by an increase in share-based compensation of

50

$2.4 million and the acquisition of the Sagicor Assets, which accounted for an additional $2.5 million in advertising expense, $0.4 million in commissions expense, $1.3 million in insurance expense and $2.3 million in other selling, general and administrative expense. These increases were partially offset by other miscellaneous decreases in selling, general and administrative expense among the comparable portfolio.
Depreciation and Amortization Expense
Our depreciation and amortization expense for the year ended December 31, 2018 increased $20.1 million, or 37.9%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2017. This increase is due to the acquisition of the Sagicor Assets, which contributed $7.6 million, and to asset additions as part of the property renovations at Panama Jack Resorts Cancun, Panama Jack Resorts Playa del Carmen and Hyatt Ziva & Zilara Rose Hall in the prior year that have a full twelve months of depreciation in the current year.
Gain on Insurance Proceeds
We received net business interruption insurance proceeds of $2.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2018, which related to the impact of Hurricane Maria at the Dreams Punta Cana and Dreams Palm Beach and the impact of Hurricane Maria and Hurricane Irma at Hilton La Romana (formerly Dreams La Romana) during the third quarter of 2017. We also recognized a gain of $2.2 million related to property damage insurance at Dreams Punta Cana and Dreams Palm Beach during the year ended December 31, 2018. During the year ended December 31, 2017, we received property damage proceeds of $2.3 million, which were completely offset by expenses incurred to repair the damage during the same period. This amount includes proceeds related to a flood claim and to Hurricane Maria, both at the Dreams Punta Cana resort, of $1.3 million and $1.0 million, respectively. Also, during the year ended December 31, 2017, we recorded a gain of $0.5 million from net business interruption insurance proceeds at Dreams Punta Cana.
Interest Expense
Our interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2018 increased $8.6 million, or 16.0%, as compared to the year ended December 31, 2017. The change in interest expense was driven primarily by an increase of $17.1 million due to the change in fair value and incremental interest expense related to our interest rate swaps. The increase was partially offset by an increase of capitalized interest of $3.6 million and a decrease in interest expense of $3.5 million due to the net impact of paying down the 8% senior unsecured notes issued by our Predecessor (the “Senior Notes due 2020”) and the additions to our Term Loan in 2017, which bore a lower interest rate than the Senior Notes due 2020.
Cash interest paid, excluding the effect of capitalized interest, decreased $4.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2017. Our cash interest paid decreased $8.6 million due to lower interest rates paid on our Term Loan as compared to the Senior Notes due 2020 outstanding in 2017, which was partially offset by additional interest paid of $4.6 million related to our interest rate swaps.
Income Tax Provision
The income tax provision for the year ended December 31, 2018 was $12.2 million, an increase of $3.1 million compared to the year ended December 31, 2017, during which period we reported income tax provision of $9.1 million. The increased income tax provision in the year ended December 31, 2018 was driven primarily by a $9.1 million increase in tax expense related to our Dominican Republic tax paying entities, a $5.6 million increase in tax expense due to increased book income, a $11.1 million increase in tax expense on measurement of the deferred tax assets and liabilities pursuant to the tax rate change, and a $1.5 million increased tax expense associated with other book tax differences. The tax expense increase was partially offset by a tax benefit of $5.4 million from the rate-favorable jurisdictions, and a $19.7 million decrease on valuation allowance.

51

Results of Operations
Years Ended December 31, 2017 and 2016
The following table summarizes our results of operations on a consolidated basis for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 ($ in thousands):
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
Increase / Decrease
 
2017
 
2016
 
Change
 
% Change
Revenue:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Package
$
481,175

 
$
450,875

 
$
30,300

 
6.7
 %
Non-package
78,230

 
70,616

 
7,614

 
10.8
 %
Management fees
140

 
—

 
140

 
100.0
 %
Total revenue
559,545

 
521,491

 
38,054

 
7.3
 %
Direct and selling, general and administrative expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Direct
310,048

 
287,120

 
22,928

 
8.0
 %
Selling, general and administrative
108,176

 
97,344

 
10,832

 
11.1
 %
Depreciation and amortization
53,131

 
52,744

 
387

 
0.7
 %
Gain on insurance proceeds
(479
)
 
(348
)
 
(131
)
 
37.6
 %
Direct and selling, general and administrative expenses
470,876

 
436,860

 
34,016

 
7.8
 %
Operating income
88,669

 
84,631

 
4,038

 
4.8
 %
Interest expense
(53,661
)
 
(54,793
)
 
1,132

 
(2.1
)%
Loss on extinguishment of debt
(25,120
)
 
—

 
(25,120
)
 
100.0
 %
Other expense
(1,078
)
 
(5,390
)
 
4,312

 
(80.0
)%
Net income before tax
8,810

 
24,448

 
(15,638
)
 
(64.0
)%
Income tax provision
(9,051
)
 
(4,232
)
 
(4,819
)
 
113.9
 %
Net (loss) income
$
(241
)
 
$
20,216

 
$
(20,457
)
 
(101.2
)%
    
The tables below set forth information with respect to our Occupancy, Net Package ADR, Net Package RevPAR, Net Package Revenue, Net Non-package Revenue, Management Fee Revenue, Total Net Revenue, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin. For a description of these operating metrics and non-U.S. GAAP measures, see “Key Indicators of Financial and Operating Performance,” below. For discussions of Adjusted EBITDA and reconciliation to the most comparable U.S. GAAP financial measures, see “Key Indicators of Financial and Operating Performance” and “Non-U.S. GAAP Financial Measures,” below.
Total Portfolio
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
Increase / Decrease
 
2017
 
2016
 
Change 
 
% Change
Occupancy
81.4
%

81.2
%
 
0.2
pts
 
0.2
%
Net Package ADR
$
256.93


$
240.53

 
$
16.40

 
6.8
%
Net Package RevPAR
209.27


195.31

 
13.96

 
7.1
%
 
($ in thousands)
 
 
Net Package Revenue
$
468,434

 
$
439,009

 
$
29,425

 
6.7
%
Net Non-package Revenue
77,637

 
70,030

 
7,607

 
10.9
%
Management Fee Revenue
140

 
—

 
140

 
100.0
%
Total Net Revenue
546,211

 
509,039

 
37,172

 
7.3
%
Adjusted EBITDA
$
170,865

 
$
154,669

 
$
16,196

 
10.5
%
Adjusted EBITDA Margin
31.3
%
 
30.4
%
 
0.9
pts
 
3.0
%

52

Total Revenue and Total Net Revenue

Our total revenue for the year ended December 31, 2017 increased $38.1 million, or 7.3%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2016. Our Total Net Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2017 increased $37.2 million, or 7.3%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2016. This increase was driven primarily by an increase in Net Package Revenue of $29.4 million, or 6.7%, and an increase in Net Non-package Revenue of $7.6 million, or 10.9%. The increase in Net Package Revenue was the result of an increase in Net Package ADR of $16.40, or 6.8%, and an increase in average occupancy from 81.2% to 81.4%, the equivalent of an increase of $13.96, or 7.1%, in Net Package RevPAR.
The following table shows a reconciliation of Net Package Revenue, Net Non-package Revenue and Management Fee Revenue to total revenue for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 ($ in thousands):
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
Increase/Decrease
 
2017
 
2016
 
Change 
 
% Change
Net Package Revenue
$
468,434

 
$
439,009

 
$
29,425

 
6.7
%
Net Non-package Revenue
77,637

 
70,030

 
7,607

 
10.9
%
Management Fee Revenue
140

 
—

 
140

 
100.0
%
Total Net Revenue
546,211

 
509,039

 
37,172

 
7.3
%
Compulsory tips
13,334

 
12,452

 
882

 
7.1
%
Total revenue
$
559,545

 
$
521,491

 
$
38,054

 
7.3
%
Direct Expenses
The following table shows a reconciliation of our direct expenses to net direct expenses for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 ($ in thousands):
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
Increase/Decrease
 
2017
 
2016
 
Change 
 
% Change
Direct expenses
$
310,048

 
$
287,120

 
$
22,928

 
8.0
%
Less: compulsory tips
13,334

 
12,452

 
882

 
7.1
%
Net direct expenses
$
296,714

 
$
274,668

 
$
22,046

 
8.0
%
Our direct expenses include resort expenses, such as food and beverage, salaries and wages, utilities and other ongoing operational expenses. Our net direct expenses for the year ended December 31, 2017 were $296.7 million, or 54.3%, of Total Net Revenue and $274.7 million, or 54.0%, of Total Net Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2016.

53

Net direct expenses for the year ended December 31, 2017 increased $22.0 million, or 8.0%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2016. Direct operating expenses fluctuate based on various factors, including changes in occupancy, labor costs, utilities, repair and maintenance costs and license and property taxes. Management fees and franchise fees, which are computed as a percentage of revenue, increased as a result of higher revenues.
Net direct expenses consists of the following ($ in thousands):
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
Increase/Decrease
 
2017
 
2016
 
Change 
 
% Change
Direct expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Food and beverages
$
76,550

 
$
75,723

 
$
827

 
1.1
 %
Guest costs
1,564

 
695

 
869

 
125.0
 %
Resort salary and wages
102,298

 
92,674

 
9,624

 
10.4
 %
Repairs and maintenance
15,406

 
14,578

 
828

 
5.7
 %
Utility expenses
29,446

 
25,389

 
4,057

 
16.0
 %
Licenses and property taxes
3,241

 
2,024

 
1,217

 
60.1
 %
Incentive and management fees
11,349

 
11,373

 
(24
)
 
(0.2
)%
Franchise/license fees
14,105

 
13,539

 
566

 
4.2
 %
Other supplies and expense amortization
3,806

 
4,204

 
(398
)
 
(9.5
)%
Transportation and travel expenses
4,498

 
4,454

 
44

 
1.0
 %
Laundry and cleaning expenses
2,539

 
2,882

 
(343
)
 
(11.9
)%
Property and equipment rental expense
4,264

 
3,783

 
481

 
12.7
 %
Entertainment expenses
3,575

 
3,332

 
243

 
7.3
 %
Office supplies
4,492

 
4,278

 
214

 
5.0
 %
Other operational expenses
19,581

 
15,740

 
3,841

 
24.4
 %
Total net direct expenses
$
296,714

 
$
274,668

 
$
22,046

 
8.0
 %
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
Our selling, general and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2017 increased $10.8 million, or 11.1%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2016. This increase was primarily driven by an increase in advertising and commissions expenses of $3.0 million, an increase in professional fees of $1.1 million, an increase in transaction expenses of $5.2 million and an increase in corporate personnel costs of $2.5 million. These expenses were partially offset by a decrease in insurance expenses of $0.9 million.
Depreciation and Amortization Expense
Our depreciation and amortization expense for the year ended December 31, 2017 increased $0.4 million, or 0.7%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2016. This increase was due to asset additions in the prior year that have a full year of depreciation in the current year, as well as additions in the current year which have increased depreciation expense.
Gain on Insurance Proceeds
We received property damage proceeds of $2.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2017, which were completely offset by expenses incurred to repair the damage during the same period. This amount includes proceeds related to a flood claim and to Hurricane Maria, both at the Dreams Punta Cana resort, of $1.3 million and $1.0 million, respectively. During the year ended December 31, 2017, we recorded a gain of $0.5 million from net business interruption insurance proceeds at Dreams Punta Cana. During the year ended December 31, 2016, we recorded a gain of $0.3 million from net property damage insurance proceeds related to small claims at the Dreams Palm Beach, Dreams Punta Cana, and Hyatt Zilara Cancun.

54

Interest Expense
Our interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2017 decreased $1.1 million, or 2.1%, as compared to the year ended December 31, 2016. This decrease was due to the paydown of the Senior Notes due 2020 issued by our Predecessor on August 9, 2013, February 14, 2014, May 11, 2015 and October 4, 2016 in April and December 2017.
Loss on Extinguishment of Debt
The refinancings of our Senior Secured Credit Facility and the repayment of our Senior Notes due 2020 were accounted for as a partial modification and partial extinguishment of debt, which resulted in a loss on extinguishment of debt for the year ended December 31, 2017 of $25.1 million.
Income Tax Provision
The income tax provision for the year ended December 31, 2017 was $9.1 million, an increase of $4.8 million compared to the year ended December 31, 2016, during which we reported an income tax provision of $4.2 million. The increased income tax provision was driven primarily by $10.4 million increased tax expense associated with foreign exchange rate fluctuations, a $9.0 million increase on the valuation allowance and a $2.6 million increased tax expense on the measurement of the U.S. deferred tax assets pursuant to the U.S. tax rate change for tax years beginning after December 31, 2017. The tax expense increase was partially offset by a $4.0 million decrease of tax expense on decreased pre-tax book income, a $1.4 million decreased tax expense associated with other book tax differences and a tax benefit of $4.6 million from the rate-favorable jurisdictions. The tax expense was further offset by a $7.8 million tax benefit on the reversal of the 2016 tax expense for one of our Dominican Republic entities pursuant to the Advanced Pricing Agreement signed with Dominican Republic tax authorities in December 2017. This agreement is retroactive to 2016.
Key Indicators of Financial and Operating Performance
We use a variety of financial and other information to monitor the financial and operating performance of our business. Some of this is financial information prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP, while other information, though financial in nature, is not prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. For reconciliations of non-U.S. GAAP financial measures to the most comparable U.S. GAAP financial measure, see “Non-U.S. GAAP Financial Measures.” Our management also uses other information that is not financial in nature, including statistical information and comparative data that are commonly used within the lodging industry to evaluate the financial and operating performance of our portfolio. Our management uses this information to measure the performance of our segments and consolidated portfolio. We use this information for planning and monitoring our business, as well as in determining management and employee compensation. These key indicators include:
•
Net Package Revenue
•
Net Non-package Revenue
•
Owned Net Revenue
•
Management Fee Revenue
•
Total Net Revenue
•
Occupancy
•
Net Package ADR
•
Net Package RevPAR
•
Adjusted EBITDA
•
Adjusted EBITDA Margin 
•
Owned Resort EBITDA
•
Owned Resort EBITDA Margin
•
Comparable Non-U.S. GAAP Measures


55

Net Package Revenue, Net Non-package Revenue, Owned Net Revenue, Management Fee Revenue, Cost Reimbursements and Total Net Revenue
“Net Package Revenue” is derived from the sale of all-inclusive packages, which include room accommodations, food and beverage services, kids club and entertainment activities, net of compulsory tips paid to employees in Mexico and Jamaica. Government mandated compulsory tips in the Dominican Republic are not included in this adjustment, as they are already excluded from revenue. Revenue is recognized, net of discounts and rebates, when the rooms are occupied and/or the relevant services have been rendered. Advance deposits received from guests are deferred and included in trade and other payables until the rooms are occupied and/or the relevant services have been rendered, at which point the revenue is recognized.
“Net Non-package Revenue” represents all other revenues earned from the operations of our resorts, other than Net Package Revenue, net of compulsory tips paid to employees in Mexico and Jamaica. Government mandated compulsory tips in the Dominican Republic are not included in this adjustment, as they are already excluded from revenue. Net Non-package Revenue includes revenue associated with guests' purchases of upgrades, premium services and amenities, such as premium rooms, dining experiences, wines and spirits and spa packages, which are not included in the all-inclusive package. Revenue not included in a guest’s all-inclusive package is recognized when the goods are consumed.
“Owned Net Revenue” represents Net Package Revenue and Net Non-Package Revenue. Owned Net Revenue represents a key indicator to assess the overall performance of our business and analyze trends, such as consumer demand, brand preference and competition. In analyzing our Owned Net Revenues, our management differentiates between Net Package Revenue and Net Non-package Revenue. Guests at our resorts purchase packages at stated rates, which include room accommodations, food and beverage services and entertainment activities, in contrast to other lodging business models, which typically only include the room accommodations in the stated rate. The amenities at all-inclusive resorts typically include a variety of buffet and á la carte restaurants, bars, activities, and shows and entertainment throughout the day.
“Management Fee Revenue” is derived from fees earned for managing hotels owned by third-parties. The fees earned are typically composed of a base fee, which is computed as a percentage of resort revenue, and an incentive fee, which is computed as a percentage of resort profitability. Management Fee Revenue was immaterial to our operations for the years ended December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, but we expect Management Fee Revenue to be a more relevant indicator to assess the overall performance of our business in the future as we enter into more management contracts.
“Total Net Revenue” represents Net Package Revenue, Net Non-package Revenue, Management Fee Revenue for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 and Net Package Revenue and Net Non-package Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2016. “Cost Reimbursements” is excluded from Total Net Revenue as it is not considered a key indicator of financial and operating performance. Cost reimbursements is derived from the reimbursement of certain costs incurred by Playa on behalf of resorts managed by Playa and owned by third parties. This revenue is fully offset by reimbursable costs and has no net impact on operating income or net income.
Occupancy
“Occupancy” represents the total number of rooms sold for a period divided by the total number of rooms available during such period. Occupancy is a useful measure of the utilization of a resort’s total available capacity and can be used to gauge demand at a specific resort or group of properties during a given period. Occupancy levels also enable us to optimize Net Package ADR (as defined below) by increasing or decreasing the stated rate for our all-inclusive packages as demand for a resort increases or decreases.
Net Package ADR
“Net Package ADR” represents total Net Package Revenue for a period divided by the total number of rooms sold during such period. Net Package ADR trends and patterns provide useful information concerning the pricing environment and the nature of the guest base of our portfolio or comparable portfolio, as applicable. Net Package ADR is a commonly used performance measure in the all-inclusive segment of the lodging industry, and is commonly used to assess the stated rates that guests are willing to pay through various distribution channels.
Net Package RevPAR
“Net Package RevPAR” is the product of Net Package ADR and the average daily occupancy percentage. Net Package RevPAR does not reflect the impact of non-package revenue. Although Net Package RevPAR does not include this additional revenue, it generally is considered the key performance measure in the all-inclusive segment of the lodging industry to identify trend information with respect to net room revenue produced by our portfolio or comparable portfolio, as applicable, and to evaluate operating performance on a consolidated basis or a regional basis, as applicable.

56

EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Owned Resort EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA Margin and Owned Resort EBITDA Margin
We define EBITDA, a non-U.S. GAAP financial measure, as net income (loss), determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP, for the period presented, before interest expense, income tax and depreciation and amortization expense. We define Adjusted EBITDA, a non-U.S. GAAP financial measure, as EBITDA further adjusted to exclude the following items:
•
Other income (expense)
•
Pre-opening expense
•
Transaction expenses
•
Severance expense
•
Other tax expense
•
Gain on property damage insurance proceeds
•
Share-based compensation
•
Loss on extinguishment of debt
•
Non-service cost components of net periodic pension cost (benefit)
•
Other items which may include, but are not limited to the following: management contract termination fees; gains or losses from legal settlements; repairs from hurricanes and tropical storms; impairment losses and Jamaica delayed opening accrual reversals.
We believe that Adjusted EBITDA is useful to investors for two principal reasons. First, we believe Adjusted EBITDA assists investors in comparing our performance over various reporting periods on a consistent basis by removing from our operating results the impact of items that do not reflect our core operating performance. For example, changes in foreign exchange rates (which are the principal driver of changes in other expense, net), and expenses related to capital raising, strategic initiatives and other corporate initiatives, such as expansion into new markets (which are the principal drivers of changes in transaction expenses), are not indicative of the operating performance of our resorts. The other adjustments included in our definition of Adjusted EBITDA relate to items that occur infrequently and therefore would obstruct the comparability of our operating results over reporting periods. For example, revenue from insurance policies, other than business interruption insurance policies, is infrequent in nature, and we believe excluding these expense and revenue items permits investors to better evaluate the core operating performance of our resorts over time.
The second principal reason that we believe Adjusted EBITDA is useful to investors is that it is considered a key performance indicator by our board of directors (our “Board”) and management. In addition, the compensation committee of our Board determines the annual variable compensation for certain members of our management based, in part, on consolidated Adjusted EBITDA. We believe that Adjusted EBITDA is useful to investors because it provides investors with information utilized by our Board and management to assess our performance and may (subject to the limitations described below) enable investors to compare the performance of our portfolio to our competitors.
We define Owned Resort EBITDA as Adjusted EBITDA before corporate expenses and Management Fee Revenue. EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Owned Resort EBITDA are not a substitute for net income (loss) or any other measure determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP. There are limitations to the utility of non-U.S. GAAP financial measures, such as Adjusted EBITDA. For example, other companies in our industry may define Adjusted EBITDA differently than we do. As a result, it may be difficult to use Adjusted EBITDA or similarly named non-U.S. GAAP financial measures that other companies publish to compare the performance of those companies to our performance. Because of these limitations, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, and Owned Resort EBITDA should not be considered as a measure of the income or loss generated by our business or discretionary cash available for investment in our business, and investors should carefully consider our U.S. GAAP results presented.
For a reconciliation of EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Owned Resort EBITDA to net income (loss) as computed under U.S. GAAP, see “Non-U.S. GAAP Financial Measures.”
“Adjusted EBITDA Margin” represents Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of Total Net Revenue. “Owned Resort EBITDA Margin” represents Owned Resort EBITDA as a percentage of Owned Net Revenue. We believe these margins provide our investors a useful measurement of operating profitability for the same reasons we find Adjusted EBITDA and Owned Resort EBITDA useful.
Comparable Non-U.S. GAAP Measures
We believe that presenting Adjusted EBITDA, Total Net Revenue, Net Package Revenue and Net Non-package Revenue on a comparable basis is useful to investors because these measures include only the results of resorts owned and in operation for the

57

entirety of the periods presented and thereby eliminate disparities in results due to the acquisition or disposition of resorts or the impact of resort closures or re-openings in connection with redevelopment or renovation projects. As a result, we believe these measures provide more consistent metrics for comparing the performance of our operating resorts. We calculate comparable Adjusted EBITDA, comparable Total Net Revenue, comparable Net Package Revenue and comparable Net Non-package Revenue as the total amount of each respective measure less amounts attributable to non-comparable resorts, by which we mean resorts that were not owned or in operation during some or all of the relevant reporting period.
For the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to the year ended December 31, 2017, our non-comparable resorts were: Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa, Jewel Runaway Bay Beach & Golf Resort, Jewel Dunn’s River Beach Resort & Spa, and Jewel Paradise Cove Beach Resort & Spa, which were acquired on June 1, 2018. For the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to the year ended December 31, 2016, we had no non-comparable resorts as all of our resorts were owned and in operation for each period.
For a reconciliation of net income (loss) to comparable Adjusted EBITDA as computed under U.S. GAAP, see “Non-U.S. GAAP Financial Measures.” For a reconciliation of comparable Net Package Revenue, comparable Net Non-package Revenue, comparable Management Fee Revenue and comparable Total Net Revenue to total revenue as computed under U.S. GAAP, see “Results of Operations.”
Segment Results
Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
We evaluate our business segment operating performance using segment Owned Net Revenue and segment Owned Resort EBITDA. The following tables summarize segment Owned Net Revenue and segment Owned Resort EBITDA for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 ($ in thousands):
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
Increase / Decrease
 
2018
 
2017
 
Change 
 
% Change 
Owned Net Revenue:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Yucatán Peninsula
$
259,393

 
$
269,043

 
$
(9,650
)
 
(3.6
)%
Pacific Coast
86,317

 
87,519

 
(1,202
)
 
(1.4
)%
Dominican Republic
125,137

 
124,125

 
1,012

 
0.8
 %
Jamaica
126,702

 
65,381

 
61,321

 
93.8
 %
Segment Owned Net Revenue
597,549

 
546,068

 
51,481

 
9.4
 %
Other
305

 
3

 
302

 
10,066.7
 %
Management Fee Revenue
755

 
140

 
615

 
439.3
 %
Total Net Revenue   
$
598,609

 
$
546,211

 
$
52,398

 
9.6
 %
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
Increase / Decrease
 
2018
 
2017
 
Change 
 
% Change 
Owned Resort EBITDA:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Yucatán Peninsula
$
107,884

 
$
113,754

 
$
(5,870
)
 
(5.2
)%
Pacific Coast
31,038

 
34,246

 
(3,208
)
 
(9.4
)%
Dominican Republic
41,228

 
37,506

 
3,722

 
9.9
 %
Jamaica
32,912

 
15,976

 
16,936

 
106.0
 %
Segment Owned Resort EBITDA
213,062

 
201,482

 
11,580

 
5.7
 %
Other corporate—unallocated
(34,786
)
 
(30,757
)
 
(4,029
)
 
13.1
 %
Management Fee Revenue
755

 
140

 
615

 
439.3
 %
Total Adjusted EBITDA   
$
179,031

 
$
170,865

 
$
8,166

 
4.8
 %
For a reconciliation of segment Owned Net Revenue and segment Owned Resort EBITDA to total revenue and net income (loss), respectively, each as computed under U.S. GAAP, see Note 19 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

58

Yucatán Peninsula
The following tables set forth information with respect to our Occupancy, Net Package ADR, Net Package RevPAR, Net Package Revenue, Net Non-package Revenue, Owned Net Revenue, Owned Resort EBITDA and Owned Resort EBITDA Margin for our Yucatán Peninsula segment for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 for the total segment portfolio.
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
Increase / Decrease
 
2018
 
2017
 
Change
 
% Change
Occupancy
86.2
%
 
87.1
%
 
(0.9
)pts
 
(1.0
)%
Net Package ADR
$
269.49

 
$
272.66

 
$
(3.17
)
 
(1.2
)%
Net Package RevPAR
232.35

 
237.49

 
(5.14
)
 
(2.2
)%
 
($ in thousands)
 
 
Net Package Revenue
$
229,660

 
$
234,972

 
$
(5,312
)
 
(2.3
)%
Net Non-package Revenue
29,733

 
34,071

 
(4,338
)
 
(12.7
)%
Owned Net Revenue
259,393

 
269,043

 
(9,650
)
 
(3.6
)%
Owned Resort EBITDA
$
107,884

 
$
113,754

 
$
(5,870
)
 
(5.2
)%
Owned Resort EBITDA Margin
41.6
%
 
42.3
%
 
(0.7
)pts
 
(1.7
)%
 Segment Owned Net Revenue. Our Owned Net Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2018 decreased $9.7 million, or 3.6%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2017. Owned Net Revenue at all properties in this segment except Hyatt Ziva Cancun decreased $16.0 million compared to the year ended December 31, 2017 due to a decrease in both Net Package ADR and Occupancy compared to prior year. The strong performance of Hyatt Ziva Cancun, which accounted for a $6.3 million increase, offset these decreases.
Segment Owned Resort EBITDA. Our Owned Resort EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2018 decreased $5.9 million, or 5.2%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2017. Owned Resort EBITDA at all properties in this segment except Hyatt Ziva Cancun and Panama Jack Resorts Playa del Carmen decreased $9.3 million compared to the year ended December 31, 2017. This was offset by the performance of Hyatt Ziva Cancun and Panama Jack Resorts Playa del Carmen, which accounted for a $3.4 million increase. The decrease in Owned Resort EBITDA was due to the decrease in Owned Net Revenue as described above. In addition to the revenue decline, all properties within this segment have been affected by increased insurance premiums and energy costs year over year which contributed to a $2.7 million decrease in Owned Resort EBITDA compared to the year ended December 31, 2017.
Pacific Coast
The following tables set forth information with respect to our Occupancy, Net Package ADR, Net Package RevPAR, Net Package Revenue, Net Non-package Revenue, Owned Net Revenue, Owned Resort EBITDA and Owned Resort EBITDA Margin for our Pacific Coast segment for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 for the total segment portfolio.
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
Increase / Decrease
 
2018
 
2017
 
Change
 
% Change
Occupancy
76.5
%
 
73.6
%
 
2.9
 pts
 
3.9
 %
Net Package ADR
$
280.43

 
$
293.07

 
$
(12.64
)
 
(4.3
)%
Net Package RevPAR
214.53

 
215.80

 
(1.27
)
 
(0.6
)%
 
($ in thousands)
 
 
Net Package Revenue
$
72,510

 
$
72,938

 
$
(428
)
 
(0.6
)%
Net Non-package Revenue
13,807

 
14,581

 
(774
)
 
(5.3
)%
Owned Net Revenue
86,317

 
87,519

 
(1,202
)
 
(1.4
)%
Owned Resort EBITDA
$
31,038

 
$
34,246

 
$
(3,208
)
 
(9.4
)%
Owned Resort EBITDA Margin
36.0
%
 
39.1
%
 
(3.1
)pts
 
(7.9
)%
 Segment Owned Net Revenue. Our Owned Net Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2018 decreased $1.2 million, or 1.4%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2017. The decrease was due to the performance of Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos, which has had less group business due to cancellations versus the prior year. As groups generally pay increased rates, a decrease in group business contributed to the decrease in Owned Net Revenue compared to year ended December 31, 2017. The decrease at Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos was partially offset by an increase in Owned Net Revenue at Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta.

59

Segment Owned Resort EBITDA. Our Owned Resort EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2018 decreased $3.2 million, or 9.4%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2017. The decrease was due to the performance of Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos, which has had less group business due to cancellations versus the prior year. As groups generally pay increased rates, a decrease in group business contributed to the decrease in EBITDA compared to year ended December 31, 2017. The decrease at Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos was partially offset by a slight increase in EBITDA at Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta. All properties within this segment have been affected by increased insurance premiums and energy costs year over year which contributed to a $1.1 million decrease in Owned Resort EBITDA compared to the year ended December 31, 2017.
Dominican Republic
The following tables set forth information with respect to our Occupancy, Net Package ADR, Net Package RevPAR, Net Package Revenue, Net Non-package Revenue, Owned Net Revenue, Owned Resort EBITDA and Owned Resort EBITDA Margin for our Dominican Republic segment for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 for the total segment portfolio.
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
Increase / Decrease
 
2018
 
2017
 
Change
 
% Change
Occupancy
82.2
%
 
80.6
%
 
1.6
pts
 
2.0
 %
Net Package ADR
$
186.36

 
$
188.65

 
$
(2.29
)
 
(1.2
)%
Net Package RevPAR
153.13

 
152.13

 
1.00

 
0.7
 %
 
($ in thousands)
 
 
Net Package Revenue
$
104,858

 
$
104,167

 
$
691

 
0.7
 %
Net Non-package Revenue
20,279

 
19,958

 
321

 
1.6
 %
Owned Net Revenue
125,137

 
124,125

 
1,012

 
0.8
 %
Owned Resort EBITDA
$
41,228

 
$
37,506

 
$
3,722

 
9.9
 %
Owned Resort EBITDA Margin
32.9
%
 
30.2
%
 
2.7
pts
 
8.9
 %
 Segment Owned Net Revenue. Our Owned Net Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2018 increased $1.0 million, or 0.8%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2017. This increase was due to increased Owned Net Revenue by Hilton La Romana (formerly Dreams La Romana), which accounted for a $2.1 million increase compared to the year ended December 31, 2017. This was partially offset by the performance of Dreams Punta Cana and Dreams Palm Beach, which accounted for a decrease of $1.1 million in Owned Net Revenue compared to the year ended December 31, 2017. 
Segment Owned Resort EBITDA. Our Owned Resort EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2018 increased $3.7 million, or 9.9%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2017. This increase was due to increased Owned Resort EBITDA by Hilton La Romana (formerly Dreams La Romana) and Dreams Punta Cana, which accounted for a $3.9 million increase compared to the year ended December 31, 2017. All properties within this segment have been affected by increased insurance premiums year over year which were approximately a $0.2 million offset to the increase in Owned Resort EBITDA compared to the year ended December 31, 2017.

60

Jamaica
The following tables set forth information with respect to our Occupancy, Net Package ADR, Net Package RevPAR, Net Package Revenue, Net Non-package Revenue, Owned Net Revenue, Owned Resort EBITDA and Owned Resort EBITDA Margin for our Jamaica segment for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 for the total segment portfolio and comparable segment portfolio.
Total Portfolio
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
Increase / Decrease
 
2018
 
2017
 
Change
 
% Change 
Occupancy
75.8
%
 
70.9
%
 
4.9
pts
 
6.9
 %
Net Package ADR
$
290.17

 
$
351.49

 
$
(61.32
)
 
(17.4
)%
Net Package RevPAR
219.97

 
249.03

 
(29.06
)
 
(11.7
)%
 
($ in thousands)
 
 
Net Package Revenue
$
107,782

 
$
56,357

 
$
51,425

 
91.2
 %
Net Non-package Revenue
18,920

 
9,024

 
9,896

 
109.7
 %
Owned Net Revenue
126,702

 
65,381

 
61,321

 
93.8
 %
Owned Resort EBITDA
$
32,912

 
$
15,976

 
$
16,936

 
106.0
 %
Owned Resort EBITDA Margin
26.0
%
 
24.4
%
 
1.6
pts
 
6.6
 %
Comparable Portfolio
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
Increase / Decrease
 
2018
 
2017
 
Change
 
% Change 
Occupancy
74.0
%
 
70.9
%
 
3.1
pts
 
4.4
%
Net Package ADR
$
381.67

 
$
351.49

 
$
30.18

 
8.6
%
Net Package RevPAR
282.51

 
249.03

 
33.48

 
13.4
%
 
($ in thousands)
 
 
Net Package Revenue
$
63,932

 
$
56,357

 
$
7,575

 
13.4
%
Net Non-package Revenue
11,933

 
9,024

 
2,909

 
32.2
%
Owned Net Revenue
75,865

 
65,381

 
10,484

 
16.0
%
Owned Resort EBITDA
$
22,479

 
$
15,976

 
$
6,503

 
40.7
%
Owned Resort EBITDA Margin
29.6
%
 
24.4
%
 
5.2
pts
 
21.3
%
 Segment Owned Net Revenue. Our Owned Net Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2018 increased $61.3 million, or 93.8%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2017. This increase was due to the performance of Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall, which accounted for a $10.5 million increase in Owned Net Revenue compared to the year ended December 31, 2017. Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall continue to show positive results after completion of renovations, thus contributing to the increase in demand and increased rates. The remaining increase can be attributed to the acquisition of the Sagicor Assets which accounted for a $50.8 million increase compared to the year ended December 31, 2017.
Segment Owned Resort EBITDA. Our Owned Resort EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2018 increased $16.9 million, or 106.0%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2017. This increase was due in part to the strong performance by Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall, which accounted for a $6.5 million increase in Owned Resort EBITDA compared to the year ended December 31, 2017. The remaining increase can be attributed to the acquisition of the Sagicor Assets which accounted for a $10.4 million increase compared to the year ended December 31, 2017. The Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall continue to show positive results after completion of renovations in 2017. Owned Resort EBITDA and comparable Owned Resort EBITDA in Jamaica were negatively affected by $1.2 million in incremental electric and insurance expenses as well as $0.7 million in fixed expenses related to the 88 room hotel tower at the Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa we acquired in June of 2018 as part of the Sagicor transaction, which did not open until December of 2018.

61

Years Ended December 31, 2017 and 2016
We evaluate our business segment operating performance using segment Owned Net Revenue and segment Owned Resort EBITDA. The following tables summarize segment Owned Net Revenue and segment Owned Resort EBITDA for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 ($ in thousands):
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
Increase / Decrease
 
2017
 
2016
 
Change 
 
% Change 
Owned Net Revenue:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Yucatán Peninsula
$
269,043

 
$
248,958

 
$
20,085

 
8.1
 %
Pacific Coast
87,519

 
75,340

 
12,179

 
16.2
 %
Dominican Republic
124,125

 
125,472

 
(1,347
)
 
(1.1
)%
Jamaica
65,381

 
59,237

 
6,144

 
10.4
 %
Segment Owned Net Revenue
546,068

 
509,007

 
37,061

 
7.3
 %
Other
3

 
32

 
(29
)
 
(90.6
)%
Management Fee Revenue
140

 
—

 
140

 
100.0
 %
Total Net Revenue   
$
546,211

 
$
509,039

 
$
37,172

 
7.3
 %
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
Increase / Decrease
 
2017
 
2016
 
Change 
 
% Change 
Owned Resort EBITDA:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Yucatán Peninsula
$
113,754

 
$
108,946

 
$
4,808

 
4.4
 %
Pacific Coast
34,246

 
25,851

 
8,395

 
32.5
 %
Dominican Republic
37,506

 
37,854

 
(348
)
 
(0.9
)%
Jamaica
15,976

 
12,611

 
3,365

 
26.7
 %
Segment Owned Resort EBITDA
201,482

 
185,262

 
16,220

 
8.8
 %
Other corporate—unallocated
(30,757
)
 
(30,593
)
 
(164
)
 
0.5
 %
Management Fee Revenue
140

 
—

 
140

 
100.0
 %
Total Adjusted EBITDA   
$
170,865

 
$
154,669

 
$
16,196

 
10.5
 %
For a reconciliation of segment Owned Net Revenue and segment Owned Resort EBITDA to total revenue and net income (loss), respectively, each as computed under U.S. GAAP, see Note 19 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

62

Yucatán Peninsula
The following tables set forth information with respect to our Occupancy, Net Package ADR, Net Package RevPAR, Net Package Revenue, Net Non-package Revenue, Owned Net Revenue, Owned Resort EBITDA and Owned Resort EBITDA Margin for our Yucatán Peninsula segment for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 for the total segment portfolio.
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
Increase / Decrease
 
2017
 
2016
 
Change 
 
% Change
Occupancy
87.1
%
 
86.3
%
 
0.8
 pts
 
0.9
 %
Net Package ADR
$
272.66

 
$
254.50

 
$
18.16

 
7.1
 %
Net Package RevPAR
237.49

 
219.63

 
17.86

 
8.1
 %
 
($ in thousands)
 
 
Net Package Revenue
$
234,972

 
$
218,663

 
$
16,309

 
7.5
 %
Net Non-package Revenue
34,071

 
30,295

 
3,776

 
12.5
 %
Owned Net Revenue
269,043

 
248,958

 
20,085

 
8.1
 %
Owned Resort EBITDA
$
113,754

 
$
108,946

 
$
4,808

 
4.4
 %
Owned Resort EBITDA Margin
42.3
%
 
43.8
%
 
(1.5
)pts
 
(3.4
)%
 Segment Owned Net Revenue. Our Owned Net Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2017 increased $20.1 million, or 8.1%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2016. This increase was primarily due to strong performance of Hyatt Ziva Cancun, which accounted for a $19.6 million increase in Owned Net Revenue compared to the year ended December 31, 2016 due to its increase in both Net Package ADR and Occupancy compared to prior year.
Segment Owned Resort EBITDA. Our Owned Resort EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2017 increased $4.8 million, or 4.4%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2016. This increase was primarily the result of the performance of Hyatt Ziva Cancun, which accounted for a $15.7 million increase in Owned Resort EBITDA compared to the year ended December 31, 2016. This was partially offset by Panama Jack Resorts Cancun and Panama Jack Resorts Playa del Carmen, which together accounted for a decrease of $9.5 million in Owned Resort EBITDA compared to the year ended December 31, 2016. These resorts had an increase in operational expenses to advance the renovations and conversion of these resorts to the Panama Jack Resorts brand. The renovations were completed and the hotels were opened under the Panama Jack Resorts brand in December 2017.
Pacific Coast
The following tables set forth information with respect to our Occupancy, Net Package ADR, Net Package RevPAR, Net Package Revenue, Net Non-package Revenue, Owned Net Revenue, Owned Resort EBITDA and Owned Resort EBITDA Margin for our Pacific Coast segment for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 for the total segment portfolio.
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
Increase / Decrease
 
2017
 
2016
 
Change
 
% Change
Occupancy
73.6
%
 
70.5
%
 
3.1
pts
 
4.4
%
Net Package ADR
$
293.07

 
$
267.50

 
$
25.57

 
9.6
%
Net Package RevPAR
215.80

 
188.59

 
27.21

 
14.4
%
 
($ in thousands)
 
 
Net Package Revenue
$
72,938

 
$
63,882

 
$
9,056

 
14.2
%
Net Non-package Revenue
14,581

 
11,458

 
3,123

 
27.3
%
Owned Net Revenue
87,519

 
75,340

 
12,179

 
16.2
%
Owned Resort EBITDA
$
34,246

 
$
25,851

 
$
8,395

 
32.5
%
Owned Resort EBITDA Margin
39.1
%
 
34.3
%
 
4.8
pts
 
14.0
%
Segment Owned Net Revenue. Our Owned Net Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2017 increased $12.2 million, or 16.2%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2016. This increase was driven by an increase in Net Package ADR and Occupancy by both hotels in this segment.

63

Segment Owned Resort EBITDA. Our Owned Resort EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2017 increased $8.4 million, or 32.5%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2016. This increase was due to increased Owned Resort EBITDA by both hotels in this segment.
Dominican Republic
The following tables set forth information with respect to our Occupancy, Net Package ADR, Net Package RevPAR, Net Package Revenue, Net Non-package Revenue, Owned Net Revenue, Owned Resort EBITDA and Owned Resort EBITDA Margin for our Dominican Republic segment for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 for the total segment portfolio.
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
Increase / Decrease
 
2017
 
2016
 
Change
 
% Change
Occupancy
80.6
%
 
84.5
%
 
(3.9
)pts
 
(4.6
)%
Net Package ADR
$
188.65

 
$
181.35

 
$
7.30

 
4.0
 %
Net Package RevPAR
152.13

 
153.19

 
(1.06
)
 
(0.7
)%
 
($ in thousands)
 
 
Net Package Revenue
$
104,167

 
$
105,184

 
$
(1,017
)
 
(1.0
)%
Net Non-package Revenue
19,958

 
20,288

 
(330
)
 
(1.6
)%
Owned Net Revenue
124,125

 
125,472

 
(1,347
)
 
(1.1
)%
Owned Resort EBITDA
$
37,506

 
$
37,854

 
$
(348
)
 
(0.9
)%
Owned Resort EBITDA Margin
30.2
%
 
30.2
%
 
—

 
—
 %
Segment Owned Net Revenue. Our Owned Net Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2017 decreased $1.3 million, or 1.1%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2016. This was due to a decrease of $2.9 million at Dreams Palm Beach and Dreams Punta Cana compared to the year ended December 31, 2016, offset by an increase of $1.6 million at Dreams La Romana (now Hilton La Romana).
Segment Owned Resort EBITDA. Our Owned Resort EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2017 decreased $0.3 million, or 0.9%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2016. This was due to a decrease of $1.0 million at Dreams Palm Beach and Dreams Punta Cana compared to the year ended December 31, 2016, offset by an increase of $0.7 million at Dreams La Romana (now Hilton La Romana).
Jamaica
The following tables set forth information with respect to our Occupancy, Net Package ADR, Net Package RevPAR, Net Package Revenue, Net Non-package Revenue, Owned Net Revenue, Owned Resort EBITDA and Owned Resort EBITDA Margin for our Jamaica segment for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 for the total segment portfolio.
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
Increase / Decrease
 
2017
 
2016
 
Change
 
% Change
Occupancy
70.9
%
 
64.9
%
 
6.0
pts
 
9.2
%
Net Package ADR
$
351.49

 
$
348.42

 
$
3.07

 
0.9
%
Net Package RevPAR
249.03

 
225.98

 
23.05

 
10.2
%
 
($ in thousands)
 
 
Net Package Revenue
$
56,357

 
$
51,280

 
$
5,077

 
9.9
%
Net Non-package Revenue
9,024

 
7,957

 
1,067

 
13.4
%
Owned Net Revenue
65,381

 
59,237

 
6,144

 
10.4
%
Owned Resort EBITDA
$
15,976

 
$
12,611

 
$
3,365

 
26.7
%
Owned Resort EBITDA Margin
24.4
%
 
21.3
%
 
3.1
pts
 
14.6
%
Segment Owned Net Revenue. Our Owned Net Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2017 increased $6.1 million, or 10.4%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2016. This increase was due to the performance of Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall, which was the only property in this segment for the year ended December 31, 2017.

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Segment Owned Resort EBITDA. Our Owned Resort EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2017 increased $3.4 million, or 26.7%, compared to the year ended December 31, 2016. This increase was due to the performance of Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall, which was the only property in this segment for the year ended December 31, 2017.
Non-U.S. GAAP Financial Measures
Reconciliation of Net Income to Adjusted EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization)
The following is a reconciliation of our U.S. GAAP net income to EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 ($ in thousands):
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Net income (loss)
 
$
18,977

 
$
(241
)
 
$
20,216

Interest expense
 
62,243

 
53,661

 
54,793

Income tax provision
 
12,199

 
9,051

 
4,232

Depreciation and amortization
 
73,278

 
53,131

 
52,744

EBITDA
 
166,697

 
115,602

 
131,985

Other (income) expense (a)
 
(2,822
)
 
1,078

 
5,390

Share-based compensation
 
6,116

 
3,765

 
—

Loss on extinguishment of debt
 
—

 
25,120

 
—

Pre-opening expense
 
321

 
—

 
—

Transaction expense (b)
 
9,615

 
21,708

 
16,538

Severance expense
 
333

 
442

 
—

Other tax expense (c)
 
1,633

 
1,778

 
675

Jamaica delayed opening accrual reversal (d)
 
(342
)
 
(203
)
 
—

Gain on property damage insurance proceeds (e)
 
(2,212
)
 
—

 
(348
)
Repairs from hurricanes and tropical storms (f)
 
—

 
1,807

 
—

Non-service cost components of net periodic pension (cost) benefit (g)
 
(308
)
 
(232
)
 
429

Adjusted EBITDA
 
$
179,031

 
$
170,865

 
$
154,669

Other corporate - unallocated
 
34,786

 
30,757

 
30,593

Management Fee Revenue
 
(755
)
 
(140
)
 
—

Owned Resort EBITDA
 
$
213,062

 
$
201,482

 
$
185,262

Less: Non-comparable Owned Resort EBITDA (h)
 
10,433

 
—

 
—

Comparable Owned Resort EBITDA
 
$
202,629

 
$
201,482

 
$
185,262

________
(a)
Represents changes in foreign exchange rates and other miscellaneous expenses or income.
(b) 
Represents expenses incurred in connection with corporate initiatives, such as: debt refinancing costs; other capital raising efforts including the business combinations with Pace in 2017 and Sagicor in 2018; the redesign and build-out of our internal controls and strategic initiatives, such as the launch of a new resort or possible expansion into new markets.
(c) 
Relates primarily to a Dominican Republic asset/revenue tax, which is an alternative tax to income tax in the Dominican Republic. We eliminate this expense from Adjusted EBITDA because it is substantially similar to the income tax provision we eliminate from our calculation of EBITDA.
(d) 
Represents a reversal on an expense accrual recorded in 2014 related to our future stay obligations provided to guests affected by the delayed opening of Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall. This reversal concluded in the first quarter of 2018.
(e)  
Represents a portion of the insurance proceeds related to property insurance and not business interruption proceeds, which related to the impact of Hurricane Maria at the Dreams Punta Cana and Dreams Palm Beach and the impact of Hurricane Maria and Hurricane Irma at Hilton La Romana (formerly Dreams La Romana) during the third quarter of 2017.
(f)
Represents repair and maintenance expenses at Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos due to Tropical Storm Lidia, Dreams Punta Cana and Dreams Palm Beach due to Hurricane Maria for $0.4 million, $1.0 million and $0.4 million respectively. These are expenses incurred that are not covered by insurance claims or offset by insurance proceeds.
(g) 
Represents the non-service cost components of net periodic pension (cost) benefit recorded within other (income) expense in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). Previously, these expenses were presented within direct expense. We include these (costs) benefits for the purposes of calculating Adjusted EBITDA as they are considered part of our ongoing resort operations.
(h) 
Adjusted EBITDA for the Sagicor resorts.

65

Seasonality
The seasonality of the lodging industry and the location of our resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean generally result in the greatest demand for our resorts between mid-December and April of each year, yielding higher occupancy levels and package rates during this period. This seasonality in demand has resulted in predictable fluctuations in revenue, results of operations and liquidity, which are consistently higher during the first quarter of each year than in successive quarters.
Inflation
Operators of lodging properties, in general, possess the ability to adjust room rates to reflect the effects of inflation. However, competitive pressures may limit our ability to raise room rates to fully offset inflationary cost increases.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Our primary short-term cash needs are paying operating expenses, maintaining our resorts, servicing of our outstanding indebtedness, and funding any ongoing development, expansion, renovation, repositioning and rebranding projects. As of December 31, 2018, we had $78.5 million of scheduled contractual obligations due within one year.
We expect to meet our short-term liquidity requirements generally through net cash provided by operations, existing cash balances and, if necessary, short-term borrowings under our Revolving Credit Facility which permits borrowings of up to $100.0 million and which matures on April 27, 2022. We had cash and cash equivalents of $116.4 million as of December 31, 2018, compared to $117.2 million as of December 31, 2017. We plan to fund our Hyatt Ziva and Zilara Cap Cana development project over the next 9 to 12 months with the cash we have on hand, as well as our cash generated from operations. We plan to fund the Hilton conversions and any share repurchases with the cash we have on hand, cash generated from operations, or the utilization of our Revolving Credit Facility. As of December 31, 2018, there was $0 million outstanding under our Revolving Credit Facility. When assessing liquidity, we also consider the availability of cash resources held within local business units to meet our strategic needs.
Long-term liquidity needs may include existing and future property developments, expansions, renovations, repositioning and rebranding projects, potential acquisitions and the repayment of indebtedness. As of December 31, 2018, our total debt obligations were $996.5 million (which represents the principal amount outstanding under our Term Loan, excluding a $2.7 million issuance discount on our Term Loan and $4.5 million of unamortized debt issuance costs). We expect to meet our long-term liquidity requirements generally through the sources available for short-term needs, as well as equity or debt issuances or proceeds from the potential disposal of assets.
In an effort to maintain sufficient liquidity, our cash flow projections and available funds are discussed with our Board and we consider various ways of developing our capital structure and seeking additional sources of liquidity if needed. The availability of additional liquidity options will depend on the economic and financial environment, our credit, our historical and projected financial and operating performance and continued compliance with financial covenants. As a result of possible future economic, financial and operating declines, possible declines in our creditworthiness and potential non-compliance with financial covenants, we may have less liquidity than anticipated, fewer sources of liquidity than anticipated, less attractive financing terms and less flexibility in determining when and how to use the liquidity that is available.
Financing Strategy
In addition to our Revolving Credit Facility, we intend to use other financing sources that may be available to us from time to time, including financing from banks, institutional investors or other lenders, such as bridge loans, letters of credit, joint ventures and other arrangements. Future financings may be unsecured or may be secured by mortgages or other interests in our assets. In addition, we may issue publicly or privately placed debt or equity securities. When possible and desirable, we will seek to replace short-term financing with long-term financing. We may use the proceeds from any financings to refinance existing indebtedness, to finance resort projects or acquisitions or for general working capital or other purposes.
Our indebtedness may be recourse, non-recourse or cross-collateralized and may be fixed rate or variable rate. If the indebtedness is non-recourse, the obligation to repay such indebtedness will generally be limited to the particular resort or resorts pledged to secure such indebtedness. In addition, we may invest in resorts subject to existing loans secured by mortgages or similar liens on the resorts, or may refinance resorts acquired on a leveraged basis.

66

Cash Flows
The following table summarizes our net cash provided by or used in operating activities, investing activities and financing activities for the periods indicated and should be read in conjunction with our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows and accompanying notes thereto included in the Consolidated Financial Statements ($ in thousands).
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Net cash provided by operating activities
$
114,430

 
$
64,191

 
$
76,181

Net cash used in investing activities
$
(204,586
)
 
$
(109,829
)
 
$
(19,046
)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
$
89,280

 
$
119,704

 
$
(55,815
)
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities
Our net cash from operating activities is generated primarily from operating income from our resorts. For the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, our net cash provided by operating activities totaled $114.4 million, $64.2 million and $76.2 million, respectively.
•
Net income of $19.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 included significant non-cash expenses, including $73.3 million of depreciation and amortization, $6.1 million of share-based compensation and a $12.5 million loss on the fair value of our interest rate swaps, offset by changes in our assets and liabilities through the normal course of operations.
•
Net loss of $0.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 included $3.8 million of share-based compensation and a $25.1 million loss on extinguishment of debt, offset by changes in our assets and liabilities through the normal course of operations.
•
Net income of $20.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 included $3.1 million of amortization of debt discount, premium and issuance costs and $13.2 million of deferred income taxes, offset by changes in our assets and liabilities through the normal course of operations.
Net Cash Used in Investing Activities
For the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, our net cash used in investing activities was $204.6 million, $109.8 million and $19.0 million, respectively.
Activity for the year ended December 31, 2018:
•
Acquisition of the Sagicor Assets for $93.1 million.
•
Purchases of property and equipment of $110.9 million which includes $82.3 million in cash used for the development of Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana and $28.6 million for other development and maintenance capital expenditures.
•
Purchases of intangibles of $2.8 million.
Activity for the year ended December 31, 2017:
•
Purchases of property and equipment of $106.2 million which includes $45.6 million in cash used for the acquisition of land in Cap Cana, Dominican Republic and $60.6 million in development and maintenance capital expenditures.
•
Purchases of intangibles of $1.0 million.
•
Contract deposit of $2.7 million.
Activity for the year ended December 31, 2016:
•
Maintenance capital expenditures of $19.3 million.

67

•
Property damage insurance proceeds of $0.5 million.
Capital Expenditures
We maintain each of our properties in good repair and condition and in conformity with applicable laws and regulations, franchise and license agreements and management agreements. Capital expenditures made to extend the service life or increase the capacity of our assets, including expenditures for the replacement, improvement or expansion of existing capital assets (“Maintenance Capital Expenditures”), differ from ongoing repair and maintenance expense items which do not in our judgment extend the service life or increase the capacity of assets and are charged as expenses as incurred. We have approval rights over capital expenditures made by our third-party manager as part of the annual budget process for each property they manage. From time to time, certain of our resorts may be undergoing renovations as a result of our decision to upgrade portions of the resorts, such as guestrooms, public space, meeting space, gyms, spas and/or restaurants, in order to better compete with other hotels in our markets (“Development Capital Expenditures”).
The following table summarizes our capital expenditures for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 ($ in thousands):
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Development Capital Expenditures
 
 
 
 
 
Hyatt Zilara Cancun
$
1,774

 
$
3,340

 
$
—

Panama Jack Resorts Cancun
4,269

 
8,916

 
—

Panama Jack Resorts Playa del Carmen
2,010

 
3,807

 
—

Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta
644

 
2,482

 
—

Hyatt Ziva and Zilara Cap Cana(1)
82,319

 
13,979

 
—

Hyatt Ziva and Zilara Rose Hall
1,219

 
11,873

 
—

Total Development Capital Expenditures
92,235

 
44,397

 
—

Maintenance Capital Expenditures (2)
18,616

 
16,208

 
19,262

Total Capital Expenditures
$
110,851

 
$
60,605

 
$
19,262

_______
(1) 
Developmental capital expenditures for Hyatt Ziva and Zilara Cap Cana exclude $45.6 million of cash used to purchase the land for the year ended December 31, 2017. See the discussion for net cash used in investing activities above.
(2) 
Typically, maintenance capital expenditures equate to approximately 3% to 4% of Total Net Revenue.
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities
Our net cash provided by financing activities was $89.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, compared to $119.7 million provided by financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2017. For the year ended December 31, 2016, our net cash used in financing activities was $55.8 million.
Activity for the year ended December 31, 2018:
•
Principal payments on our Term Loan of $9.9 million.
•
Proceeds from debt issuance of $99.5 million.
Activity for the year ended December 31, 2017:
•
Principal payments on our existing term loan of $366.4 million.
•
Principal and redemption premium of our Senior Notes due 2020 of $496.0 million.
•
Proceeds from our Term Loan of $907.7 million, net of a $2.3 million discount.
•
Payments of our deferred consideration to the selling shareholder of Real Resorts (the “Real Shareholder”) of $2.5 million.

68

•
Net recapitalization as part of the Pace Business Combination of $79.7 million.
•
Payments of debt issuance costs of $2.8 million.
Activity for the year ended December 31, 2016:
•
Issuance of an additional $50.0 million of our Senior Notes due 2020 on October 4, 2016, from which we received proceeds of $50.5 million.
•
Redemption of 4,227,100 cumulative redeemable preferred shares at $8.40 per share on October 14, 2016 for which we paid $35.5 million in face value and $14.5 million of associated paid-in-kind (“PIK”) dividends.
•
Repayments of borrowings on the Revolving Credit Facility of $50.0 million.
•
Principal payments on our Term Loan of $3.8 million.
•
Payments of our deferred consideration to the Real Shareholder in connection with our Predecessor’s formation transactions of $2.5 million.
Dividends
We do not plan on paying cash dividends on our ordinary shares in the foreseeable future. No cash dividends were paid for the year ended December 31, 2018.
Share Repurchases
On December 17, 2018, our Board authorized the repurchase of up to $100.0 million of our outstanding ordinary shares as means of returning capital to our shareholders. Repurchases may be made from time to time in the open market, in privately negotiated transactions or by other means (including Rule 10b5-1 trading plans). Depending on market conditions and other factors, these repurchases may be commenced or suspended from time to time without prior notice. During the fourth quarter of 2018, we purchased 47,241 ordinary shares at an average price of $6.65 per share.
Senior Secured Credit Facility
Our subsidiary, Playa Resorts Holding B.V., holds our senior secured credit facility (“Senior Secured Credit Facility”), which consists of a term loan facility which matures on April 27, 2024 and our Revolving Credit Facility which matures on April 27, 2022. We borrowed $530.0 million under our initial term loan facility on April 27, 2017 (our “First Term Loan”). We received net proceeds of approximately $32.5 million from our First Term Loan after prepaying our previous Senior Secured Credit Facility and a portion of our Senior Notes due 2020 and deducting a debt issuance discount of $1.3 million and unamortized debt issuance costs of $2.6 million.
We borrowed an additional $380.0 million under an incremental term loan facility (our “Second Term Loan” and together with the First Term Loan, the “Initial Term Loan”) on December 6, 2017. We received no proceeds from the Second Term Loan after full repayment of our Senior Notes due 2020 and deducting a debt issuance discount of $1.0 million and unamortized debt issuance costs of $0.2 million.
Our Initial Term Loan bore interest at a rate per annum equal to LIBOR plus 3.25% (where the applicable LIBOR rate had a 1.0% floor), and interest continued to be payable in cash in arrears on the last day of the applicable interest period (unless we elected to use the ABR rate in which case, interest was payable on the last business day of each of March, June, September and December).
Effective March 29, 2018, we entered into two interest rate swaps to mitigate the long term interest rate risk inherent in our variable rate Term Loan. The interest rate swaps have an aggregate fixed notional value of $800.0 million. The fixed rate paid by us is 2.85% and the variable rate received resets monthly to the one-month LIBOR rate.
On June 7, 2018, we entered into the Second Amendment to Amended & Restated Credit Agreement (the “Amendment”), which amended the Amended & Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of April 27, 2017 (the “Existing Credit Agreement”), governing our Senior Secured Credit Facility. The Amendment amended the Existing Credit Agreement to, among other things (i) effect an incremental term loan facility of $100.0 million (the “Third Term Loan” and, together with the Initial Term Loan, the

69

“Term Loan”) that was incurred pursuant to the exercise of our option to request incremental loans under the Existing Credit Agreement and (ii) decrease the interest rate applicable to the Term Loan by 0.50% to, at our option, either a base rate plus a margin of 1.75% or LIBOR plus a margin of 2.75%. The other terms to the Existing Credit Agreement were not affected by the Amendment. 
Our Term Loan requires quarterly payments of principal equal to 0.25% of the original principal amount of the Term Loan on the last business day of each March, June, September and December. The remaining unpaid amount of our Term Loan is due and payable at maturity on April 27, 2024. We may voluntarily prepay borrowings at any time without premium or penalty, subject to customary breakage costs in the case of LIBOR-based loans.
Our Revolving Credit Facility bears interest at variable interest rates that are, at the Borrower's option, either based on LIBOR or based on an alternate base rate derived from the greatest of the federal funds rate plus a spread, prime rate, or a one-month euro-currency rate plus a spread. We are required to pay a commitment fee ranging from 0.25% to 0.5% per annum (depending on the level of our consolidated secured leverage ratio in effect from time to time) on the average daily undrawn balance.
The Senior Secured Credit Facility requires that most of our subsidiaries, and in some limited cases the Company, comply with covenants relating to customary matters, including with respect to incurring indebtedness and liens, paying dividends or making certain other distributions or redeeming equity interests, making acquisitions and investments, effecting mergers and asset sales, prepaying junior indebtedness, and engaging in transactions with affiliates.
Pace Business Combination
At the Closing Time, we consummated the Pace Business Combination resulting in Playa Hotels & Resorts N.V. having 103,464,186 shares outstanding with a par value of €0.10 per share. As a result, we received an additional $79.7 million in cash and all outstanding preferred shares of our Predecessor were purchased as well as all associated paid-in-kind dividends ($353.9 million in total), which were subsequently extinguished as part of the reverse merger in the Pace Business Combination. The additional capital was used for general corporate purposes.
Sagicor Business Combination
On June 1, 2018, we consummated our acquisition of the Sagicor Assets for total consideration, after prorations and working capital adjustments, of $308.5 million, which consisted of 20,000,000 ordinary shares and $93.1 million in cash. We used the funds from the Third Term Loan to fund the acquisition and expect the Sagicor Assets to contribute to positive operating cash flow going forward.

70

Contractual Obligations
The following table sets forth our obligations and commitments to make future payments under contracts and contingent commitments as of December 31, 2018 ($ in thousands):
 
 
Less than
1 Year(1)
 
Due in 1 to
3 years
 
Due in 3 to
5 years
 
Due in
Over 5 years
 
Total
Revolving Credit Facility (2)   
 
$
508

 
$
1,015

 
$
161

 
$
—

 
$
1,684

Term Loan principal payments
 
10,100

 
20,200

 
20,200

 
946,048

 
996,548

Term Loan interest payments (3)
 
55,379

 
109,875

 
106,146

 
17,421

 
288,821

Cap Cana land purchase obligation (4)
 
10,625

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
10,625

Operating lease obligations
 
1,199

 
2,047

 
1,789

 
3,394

 
8,429

Pension obligation (5)
 
646

 
1,037

 
1,262

 
4,433

 
7,378

Total contractual obligations
 
$
78,457

 
$
134,174

 
$
129,558

 
$
971,296

 
$
1,313,485

________
(1) 
The period less than 1 year represents obligations in 2019.
(2) 
The interest commitment on our Revolving Credit Facility is calculated based on the contractual commitment fee of 0.5% applied to the undrawn balance of $100.0 million as we had no outstanding balance on our Revolving Credit Facility as of December 31, 2018.
(3) 
The interest commitment on our Term Loan is calculated based on LIBOR plus 275 basis points with a 1% LIBOR floor and the estimated net settlement of the related interest rate swaps. Projected interest rates range from 5.12% to 5.60%. Payments were calculated using the average forecasted one-month forward-looking LIBOR curve.
(4) 
The remaining $10.6 million of the purchase price is due on the earlier of (i) two years from the beginning of construction or (ii) the opening of the Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana and Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana resorts.
(5) 
Represents the undiscounted future expected plan payments for our pension obligation. See Note 17 to the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding our pension obligation and underlying accounting assumptions.
Off Balance Sheet Arrangements
We had no off balance sheet arrangements for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Our Consolidated Financial Statements included herein have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The preparation of these financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts and related disclosures.
A number of our significant accounting policies, which are described in Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements, are critical due to the fact that they require us to exercise a higher degree of judgment and estimation based on assumptions that are inherently uncertain. While we believe our estimates, assumptions and judgments are reasonable, they are based upon information presently available. Actual results may differ significantly from these estimates under different assumptions, judgments or conditions, which could have a material effect on our financial position, results of operations and related disclosures.
Business combinations
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination are recorded at fair value as of the acquisition date. We use judgment to determine the fair value of the property or business acquired and to determine the amount of value to allocate to each identifiable asset or liability. Changes to the significant assumptions or estimates used to determine the fair value of the acquired assets or liabilities could materially affect the measurement and allocation of fair value as well as the amount, if any, of goodwill recognized in the business combination.
Property and equipment, net
Useful lives of property and equipment, net
Property and equipment are recorded at cost and depreciated using the straight-line method over an estimated useful life of five to 50 years for buildings, seven to 18 years for fixtures and machinery and four to 12 years for furniture and other fixed assets.

71

We are required to apply judgment in determining the estimated useful lives of our property and equipment for purposes of calculating the amount of depreciation expense to record each year with respect to the assets. Changes to the significant assumptions or estimates of useful lives could materially affect our results of operations.
Impairment of property and equipment, net
We are required to apply judgment in determining whether indicators of impairment are present at one or more of our asset groups, or resorts. The determination as to whether a triggering event exists is based on our knowledge of the industry, historical experience, market and economic conditions, the business climate, our operations and other relevant facts and circumstances as of the assessment date.
Judgment is also required in estimating the fair value of our resorts when quantitatively assessing an asset group for impairment. Under the discounted cash flow approach, we utilize various assumptions and estimates including projections of revenues and expenses based on estimated long-term growth rates and discount rates based on the weighted-average cost of capital. Our estimates of long-term growth and costs are based on historical data as well as various internal projections and external sources. The weighted-average cost of capital is estimated based on each resort's cost of debt and equity and a selected capital structure.
Changes in the judgments, estimates or assumptions utilized in our qualitative or quantitative property and equipment impairment testing could result in future impairment losses, which could be material to our results of operations.
Income taxes
We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the differences between the financial statement bases and tax bases of our assets and liabilities using currently enacted tax rates for the period in which the deferred tax items are expected to reverse. Significant judgment is required in the calculation of our tax provision and the resulting tax liabilities as well as our ability to realize our deferred tax assets. Our estimates of future taxable income can significantly affect our tax provision in a given period. Significant judgment is required in determining our ability to realize our deferred tax assets related to federal, state and foreign tax attributes within their carryforward periods, as we estimate the amount and timing of the future reversal of deferred tax items in our projections of future taxable income. We establish a valuation allowance to reduce deferred tax assets to the amounts we expect to realize in the future.
We recognize tax benefits related to uncertain tax positions only when we estimate that it is “more likely than not” that the position will be sustainable based on its technical merits. Assumptions, judgment and the use of estimates are required in determining if the “more likely than not” standard has been met when developing our provision for income taxes. Changes to the assessment of the “more likely than not” standard could materially impact our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Goodwill
Goodwill is reviewed for impairment annually, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate a potential impairment.
We are required to apply judgment in determining whether indicators of impairment are present at one or more of our reporting units. The determination as to whether a triggering event exists is based on our knowledge of the industry, historical experience, market and economic conditions, the business climate and other relevant facts and circumstances as of the assessment date.
Judgment is also required in estimating the fair value of our reporting units. Under the discounted cash flow approach, we utilize various assumptions and estimates including projections of revenues and expenses based on estimated long-term growth rates and discount rates based on the weighted-average cost of capital. Our estimates of long-term growth and costs are based on historical data as well as various internal projections and external sources. The weighted-average cost of capital is estimated based on each reporting unit's cost of debt and equity and a selected capital structure.
Changes in the estimates and assumptions used in our qualitative or quantitative goodwill impairment testing could result in future impairment losses, which could be material to our results of operations.

72

Derivative financial instruments
We use derivative financial instruments to manage interest rate risk. Our derivative financial instruments, consisting of our two interest rate swaps, are initially recorded at fair value on the date the contracts were entered into and are subsequently remeasured to fair value at period end, with changes recognized in earnings immediately in interest expense. The fair value of our interest rate swaps is the present value of estimated future cash flows, calculated as the difference between the fixed rate paid by us and the variable rate received from our counterparty, multiplied by the notional principal amount.
The fair value of our interest rate swaps at period end is most significantly affected by our estimate of future one-month London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) interest rates through the contractual period to maturity. It is also affected by changes in our own and our counterparty's specific credit risk, which are incorporated into the credit valuation adjustment, as well as the discount rate applied to our estimated future cash flows of the interest rate swaps.
Changes to these significant inputs or estimates could materially affect our recorded interest expense and our results of operations.
Share-based compensation
The Company adopted an equity incentive plan that provides for the grant of share options, share appreciation rights, restricted shares, share units, unrestricted shares, dividend equivalent rights, performance shares and other performance-based awards, other equity-based awards, and cash bonus awards. Share-based compensation is measured at the fair value of the award on the date of grant and recognized as an expense on a straight-line basis over the vesting period.
For awards with market conditions, the conditions are incorporated into the fair value measurement and the compensation expense is not adjusted if the conditions are not met. The determination of fair value of the market based awards on the date of grant is subjective and involves significant estimates and assumptions including expected volatility of the Company's shares, expected dividend yield, expected term and assumptions of whether the awards will achieve performance thresholds. Changes to these estimates and assumptions could have a material effect on our results of operations in future periods.
For awards with performance conditions, the related compensation expense is based on the probability of achievement. We recognize expense based on anticipated achievement percentages, which are based on internally-developed projections of future Adjusted EBITDA. Any changes to our projections will affect the amount of share-based compensation expense we recognize in future periods.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Our financial instruments consist of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, trade and other receivables, accounts receivable from related parties, certain prepayments and other assets, trade and other payables, payables to related parties, derivative financial instruments, other liabilities including our pension obligation and debt. See Note 16, “Fair value of financial instruments,” to our Consolidated Financial Statements for more information.
Related Party Transactions
See Note 7, “Related party transactions,” to our Consolidated Financial Statements for information on these transactions.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
See the recent accounting pronouncements in the “Accounting standards” section of Note 2 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Item 7A.    Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
In the normal course of operations, we are exposed to interest rate risk and foreign currency risk which may impact future income and cash flows.

73

Interest Rate Risk
The risk from market interest rate fluctuations mainly affects long-term debt bearing interest at a variable interest rate. We currently use an interest rate swap (see Note 15 to our Consolidated Financial Statements) to manage exposure to this risk. As of December 31, 2018, approximately 20% of our outstanding indebtedness bore interest at floating rates and approximately 80% bore interest at fixed rates. If market rates of interest on our floating rate debt were to increase by 1%, the increase in interest expense on our floating rate debt would decrease our future earnings and cash flows by approximately $2.0 million annually, assuming the balance outstanding under our Revolving Credit Facility remained at $0. If market rates of interest on our floating rate debt were to decrease by 1%, the decrease in interest expense on our floating rate debt would increase our future earnings and cash flows by approximately $2.0 million annually, assuming the balance outstanding under our Revolving Credit Facility remained at $0.
Foreign Currency Risk
We are exposed to exchange rate fluctuations because all of our resort investments are based in locations where the local currency is not the U.S. dollar, which is our reporting currency. For the year ended December 31, 2018 approximately 14.3% of our revenues were denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. As a result, our revenues reported on our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) are affected by movements in exchange rates.
Approximately 80.2% of our operating expenses for the year ended December 31, 2018 were denominated in the local currencies in the countries in which we operate. As a result, our operating expenses reported on our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) are affected by movements in exchange rates.
The foreign currencies in which our expenses are primarily denominated are the Mexican Peso, Dominican Peso and the Jamaican Dollar. The effect of an immediate 5% adverse change in foreign exchange rates on Mexican Peso-denominated expenses at December 31, 2018 would have impacted our net income before tax by approximately $8.7 million on a year-to-date basis. The effect of an immediate 5% adverse change in foreign exchange rates on Dominican Peso-denominated expenses at December 31, 2018 would have impacted our net income before tax by approximately $3.4 million on a year-to-date basis. The effect of an immediate 5% adverse change in foreign exchange rates on Jamaican Dollar-denominated expenses at December 31, 2018 would have impacted our net income before tax by approximately $4.1 million.
At this time, we do not have any outstanding derivatives or other financial instruments designed to hedge our foreign currency exchange risk.

74

Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS



75

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of
Playa Hotels & Resorts N.V.
Fairfax, VA

Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Playa Hotels & Resorts N.V. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss), cumulative redeemable preferred shares and shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2018, and the related notes and the financial statements schedule listed in the Index at Item 15 (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2018, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits, we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP
McLean, VA
February 28, 2019
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2014.



76


(a) Consolidated Financial Statements
Playa Hotels & Resorts N.V.
Consolidated Balance Sheets
($ in thousands, except share data)

As of December 31,

2018

2017
ASSETS



Cash and cash equivalents
$
116,353


$
117,229

Trade and other receivables, net
64,770


51,527

Accounts receivable from related parties
6,430


1,495

Inventories
15,390


11,309

Prepayments and other assets
32,617


35,056

Property and equipment, net
1,808,412


1,466,326

Goodwill
83,656


51,731

Other intangible assets
6,103


2,087

Deferred tax assets
1,427


1,063

Total assets
$
2,135,158


$
1,737,823

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY



Trade and other payables
$
159,600


$
139,528

Payables to related parties
4,320


2,966

Income tax payable
1,899


1,090

Debt
989,387


898,215

Derivative financial instruments
12,476


—

Other liabilities
21,602


19,394

Deferred tax liabilities
106,033


77,081

Total liabilities
1,295,317


1,138,274

Commitments and contingencies



Shareholders' equity



Ordinary shares (par value €0.10; 500,000,000 shares authorized, 130,494,734 shares issued and 130,440,126 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2018, and 110,305,064 shares issued and 110,297,697 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2017)
14,161


11,803

Treasury shares (at cost, 54,608 shares as of December 31, 2018 and 7,367 shares as of December 31, 2017)
(394
)

(80
)
Paid-in capital
992,297


773,194

Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(3,658
)

(3,826
)
Accumulated deficit
(162,565
)

(181,542
)
Total shareholders' equity
839,841


599,549

Total liabilities and shareholders' equity
$
2,135,158


$
1,737,823


The accompanying Notes form an integral part of the Consolidated Financial Statements.

77

Playa Hotels & Resorts N.V.
Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss)
($ in thousands)
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Revenue:
 
 
 
 
 
Package
$
532,090

 
$
481,175

 
$
450,875

Non-package
83,190

 
78,230

 
70,616

Management fees
755

 
140

 
—

Cost reimbursements
978

 
—

 
—

Total revenue
617,013


559,545


521,491

Direct and selling, general and administrative expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
Direct
340,080

 
310,048

 
287,120

Selling, general and administrative
115,975

 
108,176

 
97,344

Pre-opening
321

 
—

 
—

Depreciation and amortization
73,278

 
53,131

 
52,744

Reimbursed costs
978

 
—

 
—

Gain on insurance proceeds
(4,216
)
 
(479
)
 
(348
)
Direct and selling, general and administrative expenses
526,416

 
470,876

 
436,860

Operating income
90,597


88,669


84,631

Interest expense
(62,243
)
 
(53,661
)
 
(54,793
)
Loss on extinguishment of debt
—

 
(25,120
)
 
—

Other income (expense)
2,822

 
(1,078
)
 
(5,390
)
Net income before tax
31,176

 
8,810

 
24,448

Income tax provision
(12,199
)
 
(9,051
)
 
(4,232
)
Net income (loss)
18,977


(241
)

20,216

Other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes:
 
 
 
 
 
Benefit obligation gain (loss)
168

 
(107
)
 
348

Other comprehensive income (loss)
168

 
(107
)
 
348

Total comprehensive income (loss)
$
19,145

 
$
(348
)
 
$
20,564

Dividends of cumulative redeemable preferred shares
—

 
(7,922
)
 
(43,676
)
Non-cash dividend to warrant holders
—

 
(879
)
 
—

Net income (loss) available to ordinary shareholders
$
18,977


$
(9,042
)

$
(23,460
)
Earnings (losses) per share - Basic
$
0.16


$
(0.09
)

$
(0.46
)
Earnings (losses) per share - Diluted
$
0.16


$
(0.09
)

$
(0.46
)
Weighted average number of shares outstanding during the period - Basic
122,150,851

 
96,896,498

 
50,481,822

Weighted average number of shares outstanding during the period - Diluted
122,418,500

 
96,896,498

 
50,481,822


The accompanying Notes form an integral part of the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 

78

Playa Hotels & Resorts N.V.
Consolidated Statements of Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Shares and Shareholders' Equity
for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016
($ in thousands, except share data)
 
 
 
 
 
Shareholders' Equity
 
Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Shares
 
Ordinary Shares
 
Treasury Shares
 
Paid-In Capital
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
 
Accumulated Deficit
 
Total
 
Shares
 
Amount
 
Shares
 
Amount
 
Shares
 
Amount
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at December 31, 2015
32,738,094

 
$
352,275

 
60,249,330

 
$
656

 
5,373,884

 
$
(23,108
)
 
$
420,872

 
$
(4,067
)
 
$
(200,638
)
 
$
193,715

Retroactive application of recapitalization
 
 
 
 
(9,767,508
)
 
4,730

 
(5,373,884
)
 
23,108

 
(27,838
)
 
 
 
 
 
—

Adjusted balance at December 31, 2015
32,738,094

 
$
352,275

 
50,481,822

 
$
5,386

 
—

 
$
—

 
$
393,034

 
$
(4,067
)
 
$
(200,638
)
 
$
193,715

Net income
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
20,216

 
20,216

Benefit obligation gain, net of tax
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
348

 
 
 
348

Redemption of cumulative redeemable preferred shares
(4,227,100
)
 
(35,508
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
—

Payment of accrued dividends of cumulative redeemable preferred shares
 
 
(14,492
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
—

Dividends on cumulative redeemable preferred shares
 
 
43,676

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(43,676
)
 
 
 
 
 
(43,676
)
Balance at December 31, 2016
28,510,994

 
$
345,951

 
50,481,822

 
$
5,386

 
—

 
$
—

 
$
349,358

 
$
(3,719
)
 
$
(180,422
)
 
$
170,603

Net loss
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(241
)
 
(241
)
Benefit obligation loss, net of tax
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(107
)
 
 
 
(107
)
Share-based compensation
 
 
 
 
151,569

 
17

 
 
 
 
 
3,748

 
 
 
 
 
3,765

Recapitalization transaction
 
 
 
 
52,982,364

 
5,653

 
 
 
 
 
427,878

 
 
 
 
 
433,531

Dividends on cumulative redeemable preferred shares
 
 
7,922

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(7,922
)
 
 
 
 
 
(7,922
)
Purchase of cumulative redeemable preferred shares
(28,510,994
)
 
(239,492
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
—

Settlement of accrued dividends of cumulative redeemable preferred shares
 
 
(114,381
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
—

Non-cash transfer of ordinary shares
 
 
 
 
(7,367
)
 
 
 
7,367

 
(80
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(80
)
Issuance of ordinary shares in exchange for warrants
 
 
 
 
6,689,309

 
747

 
 
 
 
 
132

 
 
 
(879
)
 
—

Balance at December 31, 2017
—

 
$
—

 
110,297,697

 
$
11,803

 
7,367

 
$
(80
)
 
$
773,194

 
$
(3,826
)
 
$
(181,542
)
 
$
599,549

Net income
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
18,977

 
18,977

Benefit obligation gain, net of tax
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
168

 
 
 
168

Share-based compensation
 
 
 
 
189,670

 
22

 
 
 
 
 
6,094

 
 
 
 
 
6,116

Shares issued in business combination (see Note 4)
 
 
 
 
20,000,000

 
2,336

 
 
 
 
 
213,064

 
 
 
 
 
215,400

Repurchase of Earnout Warrants (see Note 10)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(55
)
 
 
 
 
 
(55
)
Repurchase of ordinary shares
 
 
 
 
(47,241
)
 
 
 
47,241

 
(314
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(314
)
Balance at December 31, 2018
—

 
$
—

 
130,440,126

 
$
14,161

 
54,608

 
$
(394
)
 
$
992,297

 
$
(3,658
)
 
$
(162,565
)
 
$
839,841

The accompanying Notes form an integral part of the Consolidated Financial Statements.

79

Playa Hotels & Resorts N.V.
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
($ in thousands)
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss)
$
18,977

 
$
(241
)
 
$
20,216

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
 
 
 
 
 
Depreciation and amortization
73,278

 
53,131

 
52,744

Amortization of debt discount, premium and issuance costs
1,523

 
2,242

 
3,129

Share-based compensation
6,116

 
3,765

 
—

Loss on extinguishment of debt
—

 
25,120

 
—

Loss on derivative financial instruments
12,476

 
—

 
—

Gain on property damage insurance proceeds
(2,212
)
 
—

 
(348
)
Deferred income taxes
3,006

 
1,004

 
(13,208
)
Other
1,100

 
928

 
(445
)
Changes in assets and liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
Trade and other receivables, net
(11,536
)
 
(3,542
)
 
(6,247
)
Accounts receivable from related parties
(4,935
)
 
(319
)
 
925

Inventories
(456
)
 
(900
)
 
(332
)
Prepayments and other assets
3,396

 
(2,762
)
 
(2,772
)
Trade and other payables
13,725

 
(8,249
)
 
10,643

Payables to related parties
1,354

 
(1,964
)
 
(255
)
Income tax payable
809

 
(4,038
)
 
12,374

Deferred consideration
—

 
654

 
201

Other liabilities
(2,191
)
 
(638
)
 
(444
)
Net cash provided by operating activities
114,430

 
64,191

 
76,181

INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
 
 
 
 
 
Acquisition of Sagicor business, net of cash acquired
(93,128
)
 
—

 
—

Capital expenditures
(110,851
)
 
(106,230
)
 
(19,262
)
Contract deposit
—

 
(2,700
)
 
—

Purchase of intangibles
(2,832
)
 
(1,003
)
 
(356
)
Receipt of key money
2,000

 
—

 
—

Proceeds from disposal of property and equipment
22

 
104

 
54

Property damage insurance proceeds
203

 
—

 
518

Net cash used in investing activities
(204,586
)
 
(109,829
)
 
(19,046
)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
 
 
 
 
 
Proceeds from debt issuance
99,499

 
907,725

 
50,500

Issuance costs of debt
—

 
(2,777
)
 
(55
)
Repayment of deferred consideration
—

 
(2,490
)
 
(2,510
)
Repayment of Term Loan
(9,850
)
 
(366,415
)
 
(3,750
)
Repayment of Senior Notes due 2020
—

 
(495,997
)
 
—

Recapitalization transaction
—

 
79,658

 
—

Redemption of cumulative redeemable preferred shares
—

 
—

 
(35,508
)
Accrued dividends of cumulative redeemable preferred shares
—

 
—

 
(14,492
)
Repurchase of ordinary shares
(314
)
 
—

 
—

Repurchase of Earnout Warrants
(55
)
 
—

 
—

Repayments of borrowings on revolving credit facility
—

 
—

 
(50,000
)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
89,280

 
119,704

 
(55,815
)

80

(DECREASE) INCREASE IN CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND RESTRICTED CASH
(876
)
 
74,066

 
1,320

CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND RESTRICTED CASH, BEGINNING OF THE PERIOD
$
117,229

 
$
43,163

 
$
41,843

CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND RESTRICTED CASH, END OF THE PERIOD
$
116,353

 
$
117,229

 
$
43,163

RECONCILIATION OF CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND RESTRICTED CASH
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
116,353

 
$
117,229

 
$
33,512

Restricted cash
—

 
—

 
9,651

TOTAL CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND RESTRICTED CASH
$
116,353

 
$
117,229

 
$
43,163

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION
 
 
 
 
 
Cash paid for interest, net of interest capitalized
$
53,420

 
$
61,066

 
$
50,401

Cash paid for income taxes
$
10,890

 
$
21,582

 
$
16,953

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF NON-CASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES
 
 
 
 
 
Capital expenditures incurred but not yet paid
$
484

 
$
12,605

 
$
483

Interest capitalized but not yet paid
$
16

 
$
163

 
$
—

Paid-in-kind dividends of cumulative redeemable preferred shares
$
—

 
$
7,922

 
$
43,676

Purchase of cumulative redeemable preferred shares
$
—

 
$
(239,492
)
 
$
—

Settlement of accrued dividends of cumulative redeemable preferred shares
$
—

 
$
(114,381
)
 
$
—

Par value of vested restricted share awards
$
22

 
$
17

 
$
—

Par value of ordinary shares issued in exchange for warrants
$
—

 
$
747

 
$
—

Non-cash dividend to warrant holders
$
—

 
$
879

 
$
—

Non-cash transfer of treasury shares
$
—

 
$
(80
)
 
$
—

Intangible assets capitalized but not yet paid
$
516

 
$
—

 
$
—

Non-cash issuance of shares in business combination (see Note 4)
$
215,400

 
$
—

 
$
—

The accompanying Notes form an integral part of the Consolidated Financial Statements.

81

Playa Hotels & Resorts N.V.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 1. Organization, operations and basis of presentation
Background
Playa Hotels & Resorts N.V. (“Playa” or the “Company”) is a leading owner, operator and developer of all-inclusive resorts in prime beachfront locations in popular vacation destinations. We own and/or manage a portfolio of 21 resorts located in Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Jamaica. Unless otherwise indicated or the context requires otherwise, references in our consolidated financial statements (our “Consolidated Financial Statements”) to “we,” “our,” “us” and similar expressions refer to Playa and its subsidiaries.
Basis of preparation, presentation and measurement
On June 1, 2018, we completed a business combination with the Sagicor Parties (as defined in Note 4), which caused us to evaluate and modify the presentation of our reportable segments. See Note 4 and Note 19 for additional discussion regarding the business combination and our reportable segments, respectively.
Our Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). Prior period presentation was updated to conform with current period presentation.
Note 2. Significant accounting policies
Principles of consolidation
Our Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Playa and our subsidiaries, all of which we wholly own and control. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in the consolidation process.
Use of estimates
The preparation of our Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates.
We evaluate our estimates and assumptions periodically. Estimates are based on historical experience and on other factors that are considered to be reasonable under the circumstances. Significant accounting policies that require us to exercise judgment or make significant estimates include the fair value of assets and liabilities acquired in business combinations, useful lives of property and equipment, income taxes (including the valuation allowance), commitments and contingencies, long-lived asset and goodwill impairment testing, fair value of restricted share awards with market and performance conditions and fair value of financial instruments.
Financial instruments
The Consolidated Balance Sheets contain various financial instruments, including, but not limited to, cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, trade and other receivables, accounts receivable from related parties, certain prepayments and other assets, trade and other payables, payables to related parties, derivative financial instruments, other liabilities including our pension obligation and debt.
Foreign currency
Our reporting currency is the U.S. dollar. We have determined that the U.S. dollar is the functional currency of all of our international operations. Foreign currency denominated monetary asset and liability amounts are remeasured into U.S. dollars at end-of-period exchange rates. Foreign currency denominated non-monetary assets, such as inventories, prepaid expenses, fixed assets and intangible assets, are recorded in U.S. dollars at historical exchange rates. Foreign currency denominated income and expense items are recorded in U.S. dollars at the applicable daily exchange rates in effect during the relevant period.

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For purposes of calculating our tax liability in certain foreign jurisdictions, we index our depreciable tax bases in certain assets for the effects of inflation based upon statutory inflation factors. The effects of these indexation adjustments are reflected in income tax provision in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). The remeasurement gains and losses related to deferred tax assets and liabilities are reported in the income tax provision.
Foreign exchange gains and losses are presented in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) within other income (expense). We recognized foreign currency losses of $0.7 million, $0.7 million and $6.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
Business combinations
For acquisitions meeting the definition of a business combination, the acquisition method of accounting is used. The acquisition date is the date on which we obtain operating control over the acquired business.
The consideration transferred is determined on the acquisition date and is the sum of the fair values of the assets transferred by us and the liabilities incurred by us, and equity interests issued by us. Acquisition-related costs, such as professional fees, are excluded from the consideration transferred and are expensed as incurred.
Goodwill is measured as the excess of the consideration transferred over the fair value of the net identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed. If the consideration transferred is less than the fair value of the net assets acquired and liabilities assumed, the difference is recorded as a bargain purchase gain in profit or loss.
Property and equipment, net
Property and equipment are stated at historical cost less accumulated depreciation. The costs of improvements that extend the life of property and equipment, such as structural improvements, equipment and fixtures, are capitalized. In addition, we capitalize soft costs such as interest, insurance, construction administration and other costs that clearly relate to projects under development or construction. Start-up costs, ongoing repairs and maintenance are expensed as incurred. Buildings that are being developed or closed for substantial redevelopment are carried at cost and no depreciation is recorded on these assets until they are put into or back into service. The useful life of buildings under redevelopment is re-evaluated upon completion of the projects.
Land is not depreciated. Depreciation on other assets is calculated using the straight-line method to allocate their cost to their residual values (if any) over their estimated useful lives, as follows:
Buildings
  
5 to 50 years
Fixtures and machinery
  
7 to 18 years
Furniture and other fixed assets
  
4 to 12 years
The assets’ estimated useful lives and residual values are reviewed at the end of each reporting period, with the effect of any changes in estimates accounted for on a prospective basis.
Property and equipment are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is recognized for the amount by which the asset’s carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. No impairment was recognized for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016.
Income taxes
We account for income taxes using the asset and liability method, under which we recognize deferred income taxes for the tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax bases of existing assets and liabilities, as well as for tax loss carryforwards. For purposes of these Consolidated Financial Statements, our income tax provision was calculated on a return basis as though we had filed our tax returns in the applicable jurisdictions in which we operate.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in earnings in the period when the new rate is enacted. We provide a valuation allowance against deferred tax assets if it is more likely than not that a portion will not be realized. In assessing whether it is more likely than not that deferred tax assets will be realized, we consider all available evidence, both positive and negative, including our recent cumulative earnings experience and expectations of future

83

available taxable income of the appropriate character by taxing jurisdiction, tax attribute carryback and carry forward periods available to us for tax reporting purposes, and prudent and feasible tax planning strategies.
We have only recorded financial statement benefits for tax positions which we believe are more likely than not to be sustained upon settlement with a taxing authority. We have established income tax reserves in accordance with this guidance where necessary, such that a benefit is recognized only for those positions which satisfy the more likely than not threshold. Judgment is required in assessing the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in our Consolidated Financial Statements or tax returns, including the application of the more likely than not criteria. We recognize interest and penalties associated with our uncertain tax benefits as a component of the income tax provision.
Commitments and contingencies
We are subject to various legal proceedings, regulatory proceedings and claims, the outcomes of which are subject to uncertainty. We record an estimated loss from a loss contingency, with a corresponding charge to income, if it is probable that an asset has been impaired or a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. Where there is a reasonable possibility that a loss has been incurred we provide disclosure of such contingencies (see Note 8).
Ordinary shares and paid-in capital
Ordinary shares are classified as equity. Shares are classified as equity when there is no obligation to transfer cash or other assets to the respective holder. Incremental costs directly attributable to the issuance of ordinary shares are recognized as a reduction of equity, net of any tax effects.
Dividends
We must comply with the provisions of Dutch law, our Articles of Association and the covenants in our Senior Secured Credit Facility (as defined in Note 14) if we want to pay cash dividends. We currently intend to retain any earnings for future operations and expansion. Any future determination to pay dividends will be at the discretion of our shareholders at our general meeting of shareholders (the “General Meeting”), subject to a proposal from our board of directors, and will depend on our actual and projected financial condition, liquidity and results of operations, capital requirements, prohibitions and other restrictions contained in current or future financing instruments and applicable law, and such other factors as our board of directors deems relevant.
Preferred Shares
We previously issued cumulative redeemable preferred shares (“Preferred Shares”) that could be converted to ordinary shares at the option of the holder or redeemed by such holder or us under certain conditions. Preferred Shares were reported as a temporary equity instrument (see Note 12). There were no Preferred Shares outstanding as of December 31, 2018 or 2017.
Debt
Debt is carried at amortized cost. Any difference between the proceeds (net of debt issuance costs) and the redemption value is recognized as an adjustment to interest expense over the term of the debt using the effective interest rate method. Debt issuance costs are recorded in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as a direct deduction from the carrying amount and amortized over the term of the debt utilizing the effective interest rate method.
Capitalized interest directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of qualifying assets, which are assets that take a substantial period of time to get ready for their intended use, is recognized as part of the cost of such assets until the time the assets are substantially ready for their intended use. Capitalized interest is subsequently recognized as depreciation expense in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) once the assets are put into service.
Goodwill and other intangible assets
Goodwill arises in connection with business combinations. Goodwill is reviewed for impairment annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate a potential impairment. We completed our most recent annual impairment assessment for our goodwill associated with the reporting units within our Yucatán Peninsula and Jamaica reportable segments as of July 1, 2018 and October 1, 2018, respectively, and concluded that goodwill was not impaired.
When testing goodwill for impairment, we are allowed to assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount as a basis to determine whether the quantitative impairment test is

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necessary. We also have the option to bypass the qualitative assessment for any reporting unit in any period and proceed directly to performing the quantitative goodwill impairment test. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to the excess, limited to the total amount of goodwill allocated to the reporting unit.
The useful life for definite lived intangibles is determined to be equal to their economic life. An impairment loss is recognized for the amount by which the asset’s carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. No impairment was recognized on indefinite or definite lived intangible assets for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016.
Revenue recognition
Revenue is recognized on an accrual basis when the rooms are occupied and services have been rendered. We primarily derive our revenue from the following sources:
•
Package revenue: Revenues derived from all-inclusive packages purchased by our guests are included in the package revenue line item of the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). Contract liabilities consist of advanced deposits received from customers which are deferred until the rooms are occupied and the services have been rendered. Advance deposits are included in trade and other payables in the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, stated net of estimated discounts, rebates and value added taxes.
•
Non-package revenue: Revenue associated with upgrades, premium services and amenities that are not included in the all-inclusive package, such as premium rooms, dining experiences, wines and spirits and spa packages, is included in the non-package revenue line item of the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). Food and beverage revenue not included in a guest’s all-inclusive package is recognized when the goods are consumed.
•
Management fees: Management fees are derived from resorts that we manage, typically under long-term contracts with the property owner. Management fees are typically composed of a base fee, which is computed as a percentage of resort revenue, and an incentive fee, which is computed as a percentage of resort profitability. We recognize revenue over the term of the service period as the third-party owners benefit from our management services. Revenue from management contracts is included in the management fees line item of the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).
•
Cost reimbursements: Cost reimbursements are derived from the reimbursement of certain costs incurred by Playa on behalf of resorts managed by Playa and owned by third parties. These revenues are fully offset by reimbursed costs and have no impact on net income. Cost reimbursements are included in the cost reimbursements line item of the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).
Revenue from operations in the Dominican Republic is net of statutory withholding of $5.0 million, $5.2 million and $5.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents are comprised of cash balances and highly liquid cash deposits with maturities at the date of the acquisition of three months or less, which are readily convertible to known amounts of cash and are subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value. We classify these cash instruments as Level 1. Financial instruments that potentially subject us to a concentration of credit risk consist of cash on deposit at financial institutions where the deposits are either uninsured or in excess of insured limits and money market fund balances. Substantially all of our cash is held by financial institutions that we believe are of high-credit quality.
Restricted cash
Restricted cash consists of cash balances restricted in use by contractual obligations with third-parties.
Trade and other receivables, net
Trade and other receivables include amounts due from guests and vendors for merchandise sold or services performed in the ordinary course of business as well as other miscellaneous receivables, such as insurance. Collection of these amounts is expected in one year or less. When necessary, the carrying amount of our receivables is reduced by an allowance for doubtful accounts that reflects our estimate of amounts that will not be collected. When a trade receivable is considered uncollectible, it is written off against the allowance for doubtful accounts. Subsequent recoveries of amounts previously written off are credited against the allowance accounts. Changes in the carrying amount of the allowance for doubtful accounts are recognized within direct expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).

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Inventories
Inventories consist of food, beverages and other items related to consumption and are valued at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Cost is determined using the weighted-average cost method, not to exceed the market value.
Advertising costs
Advertising costs are expensed as incurred or the first time the advertising takes place. For the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, we recorded advertising costs of $27.3 million, $27.5 million and $26.5 million, respectively. Advertising costs are presented in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) within selling, general and administrative costs.
Share-based compensation
The Company has an equity incentive plan that provides for the grant of share options, share appreciation rights, restricted shares, share units, unrestricted shares, dividend equivalent rights, performance shares and other performance-based awards, other equity-based awards, and cash bonus awards. Share-based compensation is measured at the fair value of the award on the date of grant and recognized as an expense on a straight-line basis over the vesting period. For awards with market conditions, the conditions are incorporated into the fair value measurement and the compensation expense is not adjusted if the conditions are not met. For awards with performance conditions, compensation expense is recognized when it becomes probable that the performance criteria specified in the awards will be achieved and, accordingly, the compensation value is adjusted following the changes in the estimates of shares likely to vest based on the performance criteria. The determination of fair value of the market based awards on the date of grant is subjective and involves significant estimates and assumptions including expected volatility of the Company's shares, expected dividend yield, expected term and assumptions of whether these awards will achieve performance thresholds. The effects of forfeitures are recognized in compensation expense when they occur.
Derivative financial instruments
Derivative financial instruments are initially recorded at fair value on the date on which a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently remeasured to fair value at period end. Any gains or losses arising from changes in fair value on derivative contracts not designated for hedge accounting are recorded in interest expense in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).

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Accounting standards
The following table provides a brief description of recent accounting pronouncements (Accounting Standards Update or “ASU”) issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) that could have a material effect on our financial statements:

Standards adopted
Standard
 
Description
 
Date of Adoption
 
Effect on the Financial Statements or Other Significant Matters
ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606), as clarified and amended by ASU 2015-14, ASU 2016-08, ASU 2016-10, ASU 2016-12 and ASU 2016-20
 
This standard provides companies with a single model for use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers and supersedes current revenue recognition guidance, including industry-specific revenue guidance. The core principle of the model is to recognize revenue when control of the goods or services transfers to the customer, as opposed to recognizing revenue when the risks and rewards transfer to the customer under the existing revenue guidance.
 
January 2018
 
We applied the modified retrospective transition method to all contracts upon the adoption of ASU 2014-09. We provided the additional required disclosures, but the cumulative adjustment from our comparative periods was zero in our Consolidated Financial Statements. See Note 3.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ASU No. 2016-01, Financial Instruments—Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities, as amended by ASU 2018-03
 
This standard significantly revises the accounting related to the classification and measurement of investment in equity securities and the presentation of certain fair value changes of financial liabilities measured at fair value. It also amends certain disclosure requirements associated with the fair value of financial instruments.
 
January 2018
 
The adoption of ASU 2016-01 reduced our disclosure requirements, but did not impact our Consolidated Financial Statements. We are no longer required to disclose the method and significant assumptions used to estimate the fair value of our financial instruments measured at amortized cost on the Consolidated Balance Sheet.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ASU No. 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments (a consensus of the FASB Emerging Issues Task Force)
 
This standard amends ASC 230 to add or clarify guidance on the classification of certain cash receipts and payments in the statement of cash flows. ASC 230 lacks consistent principles for evaluating the classification of cash payments and receipts in the statement of cash flows. This has led to diversity in practice and, in certain circumstances, financial statement restatements. Therefore, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15 with the intent of reducing diversity in practice with respect to eight types of cash flows.
 
January 2018
 
The adoption of ASU 2016-15 provided clarification to existing requirements and did not have a material effect on our Consolidated Financial Statement.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ASU No. 2016-16, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other than Inventory
 
This standard requires that an entity recognize the income tax consequences of an intra-entity transfer of an asset other than inventory when the transfer occurs. Prior to this ASU, an entity was prohibited from recognizing the income tax consequences of an intra-entity asset transfer until the asset had been sold to an outside party.
 
January 2018
 
The adoption of ASU 2016-16 did not have a material effect on our Consolidated Financial Statements. We have limited intra-entity asset transfers, or intercompany sales, other than inventory that would require income tax recognition.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ASU No. 2017-01, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Clarifying the Definition of a Business
 
This standard provides guidance that will enable more consistency in accounting for transactions when determining if they represent acquisitions or disposals of assets or of a business. Under the ASU, when determining whether an integrated set of assets and activities constitutes a business, entities must go through a “screen”.
 
January 2018
 
The adoption of ASU 2017-01 simplified our decision making process of determining whether a purchase constitutes a business combination or an acquisition of assets. We applied this guidance to our acquisition of the Sagicor Assets (as defined in Note 4), which was accounted for as a business combination.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ASU No. 2017-05, Other Income—Gains and Losses from the Derecognition of Nonfinancial Assets (Subtopic 610-20): Clarifying the Scope of Asset Derecognition Guidance and Accounting for Partial Sales of Nonfinancial Assets
 
The standard clarifies the scope and accounting of a financial asset that meets the definition of an in substance nonfinancial asset and the definition of an in substance nonfinancial asset. The ASU also adds guidance for partial sales of nonfinancial assets.
 
January 2018
 
We utilized the modified retrospective transition method upon the adoption of ASU 2017-05 and the cumulative adjustment from our comparative periods was zero in our Consolidated Financial Statements, as we historically have not sold material non-financial assets in our normal course of business.


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Standards not yet adopted
Standard
 
Description
 
Date of Adoption
 
Effect on the Financial Statements or Other Significant Matters
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ASU No. 2016-02,
Leases (Topic 842) (as amended by ASU No. 2018-10, ASU No. 2018-11 and ASU No. 2018-20)
 
This standard introduces a lessee model that brings most leases on the balance sheet. This will increase a lessee’s reported assets and liabilities—in some cases very significantly. Lessor accounting remains substantially similar to current U.S. GAAP.
 
January 2019
 
We evaluated ASU 2016-02 and expect to adopt this standard using the transition method outlined in ASU 2018-11, Leases (Topic 842): Targeted Improvements, which provides for another transition method in addition to the modified retrospective approach required by ASU 2016-02. This option allows entities to initially apply the new leases standard at the adoption date and recognize a cumulative adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings in the period of adoption.

We expect the most significant leases to consist of our corporate offices, as these leases have an original term of greater than one year where we are the lessee. We expect to record a right of use asset and corresponding lease liability for our operating leases of approximately $4.0 million to $7.0 million. The cumulative adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings on January 1st, 2019 will be zero in our Consolidated Financial Statements. Additionally, we are finalizing our implementation of cloud-based lease accounting and management software to support the adoption of ASU 2016-02.

We do not expect material changes to the recognition of operating lease expense in our Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ASU No. 2018-02, Income Statement-Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220)
 
This standard provides guidance regarding the treatment of stranded income tax effects in accumulated other comprehensive income resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. Entities can make an election to reclassify these stranded income tax effects from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings. 

 
January 2019
 
The adoption of ASU 2018-02 is not expected to have a material effect on our Consolidated Financial Statements. The tax effects presented in other comprehensive income (loss) relate to our employee benefit plan and have been historically immaterial.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ASU No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement
of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments (as amended by ASU No. 2018-19)
 
This standard amends FASB’s guidance on the impairment of financial instruments by adding an impairment model (known as the current expected credit loss (CECL) model) that is based on expected losses rather than incurred losses. Under the new guidance, an entity recognizes as an allowance its estimate of expected credit losses.
 
January 2020
 
The adoption of ASU 2016-13 is not expected to have a material effect on our Consolidated Financial Statements. Our financial instruments that are subject to credit risk primarily include trade accounts receivable, which are short term in nature. Based on the application of the CECL model, we do not expect incurred losses to significantly differ from what is currently expected over the life of the trade receivables.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ASU No. 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework-Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement

 
The standard modifies the disclosure requirements of ASC 820 by eliminating and modifying certain disclosures related to the fair value hierarchy and adding new disclosures related to Level 3 fair value measurements.

 
January 2020
 
We do not expect the adoption of ASU 2018-13 to have a material impact our disclosures as we do not have any recurring or nonrecurring Level 3 fair value measurements as of December 31, 2018.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ASU No. 2018-14, Compensation-Retirement Benefits-Defined Benefit Plans-General (Subtopic 715-20): Disclosure Framework—Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Defined Benefit Plans

 
The standard adds requirements for an entity to disclose (i) the weighted-average interest crediting rates used in cash balance pension plans, (ii) a description of the reasons for significant gains and losses affecting the benefit obligation and (iii) an explanation of any other significant changes in the benefit obligation or plan assets. It also removes certain disclosures for defined benefit plans.

 
January 2020
 
We do not expect the adoption of ASU 2018-14 to have a material impact on our disclosures. We do not have a cash balance pension plan and do not expect gains or losses on our pension obligation to be material to the Consolidated Financial Statements based on our resort portfolio as of December 31, 2018.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

88

Standard
 
Description
 
Date of Adoption
 
Effect on the Financial Statements or Other Significant Matters
ASU No. 2018-15, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other-Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40): Customer’s Accounting for Implementation Costs Incurred in a Cloud Computing Arrangement That Is a Service Contract

 
The standard aligns the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred in a hosting arrangement that is a service contract with the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred to develop or obtain internal-use software.

 
January 2020
 
We do not expect the adoption of ASU 2018-15 to have a material impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements as implementation costs for our hosting arrangements that are service contracts have historically been immaterial.
Note 3. Revenue

On January 1, 2018, we adopted ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, as described in Note 2, using the modified retrospective approach to all contracts resulting in no cumulative adjustment to accumulated deficit. The adoption of this standard did not impact the timing of our revenue recognition based on the short-term, day-to-day nature of our operations.

The following tables present our revenues disaggregated by geographic segment (refer to discussion of our reportable segments in Note 19) ($ in thousands):
 
Year Ended December 31, 2018
 
Yucatán
Peninsula
 
Pacific
Coast
 
Dominican
Republic
 
Jamaica
 
Other
 
Total
Package revenue
$
236,815

 
$
75,506

 
$
104,858

 
$
114,569

 
$
342

 
$
532,090

Non-package revenue
30,141

 
13,866

 
20,279

 
18,941

 
(37
)
 
83,190

Management fees
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
755

 
755

Cost reimbursements
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
978

 
978

Total revenue
$
266,956

 
$
89,372

 
$
125,137

 
$
133,510

 
$
2,038

 
$
617,013

 
Year Ended December 31, 2017
 
Yucatán
Peninsula
 
Pacific
Coast
 
Dominican
Republic
 
Jamaica
 
Other
 
Total
Package revenue
$
242,296

 
$
76,170

 
$
104,167

 
$
58,542

 
$
—

 
$
481,175

Non-package revenue
34,440

 
14,775

 
19,958

 
9,054

 
3

 
78,230

Management fees
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
140

 
140

Total revenue
$
276,736

 
$
90,945

 
$
124,125

 
$
67,596

 
$
143

 
$
559,545

 
Year Ended December 31, 2016
 
Yucatán
Peninsula
 
Pacific
Coast
 
Dominican
Republic
 
Jamaica
 
Other
 
Total
Package revenue
$
225,708

 
$
66,815

 
$
105,184

 
$
53,168

 
$
—

 
$
450,875

Non-package revenue
30,600

 
11,635

 
20,288

 
8,061

 
32

 
70,616

Total revenue
$
256,308

 
$
78,450

 
$
125,472

 
$
61,229

 
$
32

 
$
521,491


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Performance obligations

We recognize revenues when the performance obligations are satisfied by transferring control of the product or service to our customers as described in the table below:
Revenue
 
Description
 
Timing of Revenue Recognition
Package
 
Sale of all-inclusive packages, which include room accommodations, food and beverage services and entertainment activities. All services offered as part of the all-inclusive experience are considered to be one performance obligation.
 
Revenue is recognized, net of discounts and rebates, based on the agreed-upon price after each night's stay when our performance obligation of all-inclusive services is considered transferred to the customer.
Non-package
 
All other revenues earned from the operations of our resorts other than package revenue. This includes, but is not limited to, the sale of upgrades, premium services and amenities, such as premium rooms, dining experiences, wines and spirits and spa packages.
 
Revenue is recognized based on the agreed upon price after the completion of the sale when the product or service is transferred to the customer.
Management fees
 
Fees earned for managing hotels owned by third-parties. The fees earned are typically composed of a base fee, which is computed as a percentage of resort revenue, and an incentive fee, which is computed as a percentage of resort profitability.
 
Revenue is recognized over the term of the service period as the third-party owners benefit from our management services.
Cost reimbursements
 
Cash reimbursements for costs related to managing hotels owned by third-parties.
 
Revenue is recognized when agreed upon reimbursable costs are incurred from managing hotels owned by third-parties.

We do not disclose the value of unsatisfied performance obligations for contracts with consideration determined by our performance completed to date or with an expected length of one year or less. Due to the nature of our business, our revenue is not significantly impacted by refunds. Cash payments received in advance of guests staying at our resorts are refunded to hotel guests if the guest cancels within the specified time period, before any services are rendered. Refunds related to service are generally recognized as an adjustment to the transaction price at the time the hotel stay occurs or services are rendered.
Contract assets and liabilities

We do not have any material contract assets as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 other than trade and other receivables, net on our Consolidated Balance Sheet. Our receivables are primarily the result of contracts with customers, which are reduced by an allowance for doubtful accounts that reflects our estimate of amounts that will not be collected.

We record contract liabilities when cash payments are received or due in advance of guests staying at our resorts, which are presented as advance deposits (see Note 18) within trade and other payables on our Consolidated Balance Sheet. Contract liabilities increased from $40.9 million as of December 31, 2017 to $57.3 million as of December 31, 2018. The increase for the year ended December 31, 2018 was primarily driven by increases in cash payments received from guests prior to their stay and $5.8 million in advance deposits acquired in the business combination with the Sagicor Parties (as defined in Note 4), offset by $36.2 million of package revenue recognized that was included in the advanced deposits balance as of December 31, 2017.
Contract costs

We consider sales commissions earned to be incremental costs of obtaining a contract with our customers. As a practical expedient, we expense these costs as incurred when the period to be benefited is less than one year.
Note 4. Business combination

Business combination with the Sagicor Parties

On February 26, 2018, we entered into a Share Exchange Implementation Agreement with JCSD Trustee Services Limited, X Fund Properties Limited, Sagicor Pooled Investment Funds Limited, and Sagicor Real Estate X Fund Limited (collectively, the “Sagicor Parties”), as amended by that certain First Amendment to Share Exchange Implementation Agreement dated May 31, 2018 (as amended, the “Contribution Agreement”). Pursuant to the Contribution Agreement, the Sagicor Parties agreed to contribute a portfolio of the following assets (the “Sagicor Assets”) to a subsidiary of Playa in exchange for consideration consisting of a combination of our ordinary shares and cash:

•
The Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa;
•
The Jewel Runaway Bay Beach & Golf Resort;

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•
The Jewel Dunn’s River Beach Resort & Spa;
•
The Jewel Paradise Cove Beach Resort & Spa;
•
The 88 units comprising one of the towers in the multi-tower condominium and spa at the Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa;
•
Developable land sites adjacent to the Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa and the Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa;
•
The management contract for the units owned by the Sagicor Parties at the Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa; and
•
All of the Sagicor Parties’ rights to “The Jewel” hotel brand.

On June 1, 2018 (the “Acquisition Date”), we consummated our acquisition of the Sagicor Assets for total consideration, after prorations and working capital adjustments, of $308.5 million. The Company accounted for the acquisition as a business combination in accordance with ASC 805, Business Combinations, and allocated the purchase price to the fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed. The business combination with the Sagicor Parties allows us to expand our portfolio of resorts in the all-inclusive segment of the lodging industry, capitalize on opportunities for growth and create significant operational synergies.

The following table summarizes the fair value of each class of consideration transferred to the Sagicor Parties on the Acquisition Date ($ in thousands, except share data):
Cash consideration, net of cash acquired of $0.1 million
 
$
93,128

Ordinary shares (20,000,000 shares at the Acquisition Date closing price of $10.77 per share, €0.10 par value)
 
215,400

Total purchase consideration
 
$
308,528

Preliminary fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed
The following table presents our preliminary estimates of fair values of the assets that we acquired and the liabilities that we assumed on the Acquisition Date, as previously disclosed in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the three months ended June 30, 2018, filed with the SEC on August 6, 2018, and as of December 31, 2018. Our preliminary estimates are based on the information that was available as of the Acquisition Date, and we are continuing to evaluate the underlying inputs and assumptions used in our valuations. Accordingly, these preliminary estimates, primarily deferred income taxes, are subject to change during the measurement period, which can be up to one year from the Acquisition Date.

The acquisition of the ground lease, which previously gave rise to the favorable intangible ground lease asset, was contingent on certain terms and conditions disclosed in the Contribution Agreement. We chose not to assume the ground lease as these terms and conditions were not met. We also refined our valuation models related to certain acquired property based on new information about facts and circumstances that existed at the Acquisition Date. We revised our estimate of deferred income taxes based on these changes and the receipt of updated tax basis information of the net assets acquired. The impact of these adjustments was as follows ($ in thousands):
 
 
June 1, 2018
(as previously reported)
 
Adjustments
 
June 1, 2018
(as adjusted)
Total purchase consideration
 
$
308,528

 
$
—

 
$
308,528

Net assets acquired
 
 
 
 
 
 
Working capital
 
(1,665
)
 
—

 
(1,665
)
Property and equipment
 
309,452

 
(5,153
)
 
304,299

Identifiable intangible assets and liabilities
 
2,197

 
(2,646
)
 
(449
)
Deferred income taxes
 
(28,753
)
 
3,171

 
(25,582
)
Goodwill
 
27,297

 
4,628

 
31,925

Total net assets acquired
 
$
308,528

 
$
—

 
$
308,528

Property and equipment
Property and equipment primarily consists of the all-inclusive resorts and adjacent developable land sites. We provisionally estimated the value of the acquired property and equipment using a combination of the income and market approaches, which are primarily based on significant Level 2 and Level 3 assumptions (as described in Note 16), such as estimates of future income growth, capitalization rates, discount rates, and capital expenditure needs of the Sagicor Assets.

91

Identified intangible assets and liabilities
The following table presents our preliminary estimates of the fair values of the identified intangible asset and liabilities and their related estimated useful lives ($ in thousands):
 
 
Balance Sheet Classification
 
Estimated Fair Value
 
Weighted-Average Amortization Period
(in years)
Management agreement
 
Other intangible assets
 
$
1,900

 
20
Unfavorable ground lease liability
 
Other liabilities
 
(2,349
)
 
22
Total identifiable intangibles acquired
 
 
 
$
(449
)
 
 
We provisionally estimated the value of the management agreement using the multi-period excess earnings valuation method, which is a variation of the income valuation approach. This method estimates an intangible asset’s value based on the present value of its incremental after-tax cash flows. This valuation approach utilizes Level 3 inputs (as described in Note 16).
Deferred income taxes
Deferred income taxes primarily relate to the fair value of non-current assets and liabilities acquired from the Sagicor Parties, including property and equipment, intangible assets and liabilities and other. We provisionally estimated deferred income taxes based on the statutory rate in the jurisdiction of the legal entities where the acquired non-current assets and liabilities are recorded. We revised our estimate of deferred income taxes based on changes to our valuations of the related assets and liabilities and updated tax basis information, which resulted in us recording deferred tax assets, net of a valuation allowance, of $0 million and deferred tax liabilities of $25.6 million related to the acquisition.
Goodwill
The excess of the purchase consideration over the aggregate estimated fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed was recorded as goodwill. The goodwill is attributable primarily to expected synergies and future growth opportunities of our combined operations and is not deductible for income tax purposes. Goodwill related to the business combination was recognized at the Jamaica reportable segment (refer to discussion of our reportable segments in Note 19).
Pro forma results of operations
The following unaudited pro forma results of operations have been prepared as though the business combination was completed on January 1, 2017. This unaudited pro forma financial information does not necessarily reflect the results of operations of Playa that actually would have resulted had the acquisition of the Sagicor Assets occurred at the date indicated, nor does it project the results of operations of Playa for any future date or period ($ in thousands):
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Pro forma revenue
$
666,778

 
$
662,669

Pro forma net income
$
31,511

 
$
3,497


The unaudited pro forma financial information for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 includes adjustments for:
•
Depreciation and amortization expense resulting from the estimated fair values of acquired property and equipment and identifiable definite-lived intangible assets and liabilities, respectively;
•
Elimination of the Sagicor Assets’ management fees and interest expense;
•
Interest expense resulting from the issuance of an $100.0 million Term Loan add-on (see Note 14); and
•
Related income tax effects.

For the year ended December 31, 2018, we incurred approximately $2.9 million in transaction costs related to the acquisition and approximately $1.3 million in transaction costs related to the issuance of the $100.0 million term loan add-on. These costs are recorded within selling, general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) and are reflected in unaudited pro forma net income for the year ended December 31, 2017 in the table above.

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Sagicor Assets’ results of operations
The following table presents the results of the Sagicor Assets’ operations, which are recorded within our Jamaica reportable segment, included in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the period from the Acquisition Date through December 31, 2018 ($ in thousands):
 
 
June 2, 2018 -
December 31, 2018
Revenue
 
$
55,598

Net income
 
$
898


Recapitalization transaction
At 12:00 a.m. Central European Time on March 12, 2017, we consummated a business combination (the “Pace Business Combination”) pursuant to that certain transaction agreement by and among us, Playa Hotels & Resorts B.V. (our “Predecessor”), Pace Holdings Corp. (“Pace”) and New Pace Holdings Corp. (“New Pace”), the effects of which replicated the economics of a reverse merger between our Predecessor and Pace. In connection with the Pace Business Combination, Pace formed Porto Holdco B.V., a Dutch private limited liability company (besloten vennootschap met beperkte aansprakelijkheid), as a wholly-owned subsidiary to facilitate the reverse merger with our Predecessor. Prior to the consummation of the Pace Business Combination, Porto Holdco B.V. was converted to a Dutch public limited liability company (naamloze vennootschap) and changed its name to Porto Holdco N.V. Upon the consummation of the Pace Business Combination, the Company's name was changed to Playa Hotels & Resorts N.V.
For accounting and financial reporting purposes, the Pace Business Combination was accounted for as a recapitalization of our Predecessor because Pace was incorporated as a special purpose acquisition company and considered a public shell company. Our Predecessor also maintained effective control of the combined entity because our Predecessor's operations comprise the ongoing operations of the combined entity, our Predecessor's senior management became the senior management of the combined entity and our Predecessor's directors were appointed to, and constitute the majority of, the combined entity's board of directors. Accordingly, no step-up in basis of assets or goodwill was recorded.
The Consolidated Financial Statements presented herein are those of our Predecessor for all periods prior to the completion of the Pace Business Combination and the recapitalization of the number of ordinary shares attributable to our Predecessor shareholders is reflected retroactively to the earliest period presented. Accordingly, the number of ordinary shares presented as outstanding as of December 31, 2015 totaled 50,481,822 and consisted of the number of ordinary shares issued to Predecessor shareholders. This number of shares was also used to calculate the Company’s earnings per share for all periods prior to the Pace Business Combination.
The consideration received as a result of the Pace Business Combination is summarized as follows ($ in thousands):
Purchase of all of our Predecessor's cumulative redeemable preferred shares (1)
$
353,873

Net cash transferred from Pace
78,859

Playa employee offering (2)
799

Total consideration transferred
$
433,531

________
(1) Balance consisted of the face value of our Predecessor's cumulative redeemable preferred shares (“Preferred Shares”) and their associated paid-in-kind (“PIK”) dividends as of March 10, 2017, per the terms of the Pace Business Combination.
(2) In connection with the Pace Business Combination, we entered into subscription agreements (the “Subscription Agreements”) with Playa employees, their family members and persons with business relationships with Playa, pursuant to which those persons agreed to purchase 82,751 ordinary shares for an aggregate purchase price of $0.8 million.

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Note 5. Property and equipment
The balance of property and equipment is as follows ($ in thousands):
 
As of December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Land, buildings and improvements
$
1,787,727

 
$
1,493,407

Fixtures and machinery
69,396

 
53,188

Furniture and other fixed assets
195,036

 
173,912

Construction in progress
106,520

 
29,220

Total property and equipment, gross
2,158,679

 
1,749,727

Accumulated depreciation
(350,267
)
 
(283,401
)
Total property and equipment, net
$
1,808,412

 
$
1,466,326

Depreciation expense for property and equipment was $72.3 million, $52.2 million and $51.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
For the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, $5.2 million, $1.6 million and $0 million of interest expense was capitalized on qualifying assets, respectively. Interest expense was capitalized using the weighted-average interest rate of the debt.
Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana development
On July 12, 2017, we acquired the land for the new Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana and Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic for total consideration of $56.2 million. We paid $45.6 million of the consideration in cash upon closing of the acquisition. The remaining $10.6 million balance is due on the earlier of (i) two years from the beginning of construction of the resorts, or the third quarter of 2019, or (ii) the opening of the resorts and is recorded in other liabilities within the Consolidated Balance Sheet.
Note 6. Income taxes
Net income before tax is summarized below ($ in thousands):
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Domestic
$
(5,168
)
 
$
(6,066
)
 
$
(4,759
)
Foreign
36,344

 
14,876

 
29,207

Total net income before tax
$
31,176

 
$
8,810

 
$
24,448

The components of our income tax provision for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 are as follows ($ in thousands):
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Current:
 
 
 
 
 
Domestic
$
(1
)
 
$
(67
)
 
$
(3
)
Foreign
(9,183
)
 
(7,967
)
 
(17,500
)
Total current income tax provision
(9,184
)
 
(8,034
)
 
(17,503
)
Deferred:
 
 
 
 
 
Domestic
—

 
—

 
—

Foreign
(3,015
)
 
(1,017
)
 
13,271

Total deferred income tax (provision) benefit
(3,015
)
 
(1,017
)
 
13,271

Total income tax provision for the period
$
(12,199
)
 
$
(9,051
)
 
$
(4,232
)

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Reconciliation of Netherlands statutory income tax rate to actual income tax rate
A reconciliation of the Netherlands statutory income tax rate to our effective income tax rate from continuing operations is as follows ($ in thousands):
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Income tax provision at statutory rate
$
(7,794
)
 
25.0
 %
 
$
(2,203
)
 
25.0
 %
 
$
(6,112
)
 
25.0
 %
Differences between statutory rate and foreign rate
21,629

 
(69.4
)%
 
16,277

 
(184.8
)%
 
11,732

 
(48.0
)%
Inflation adjustments
4,848

 
(15.6
)%
 
5,009

 
(56.9
)%
 
1,939

 
(7.9
)%
Nondeductible interest and expenses
(7,963
)
 
25.5
 %
 
(6,975
)
 
79.2
 %
 
(3,912
)
 
16.0
 %
Debt extinguishment and other
—

 
—
 %
 
536

 
(6.1
)%
 
(5
)
 
—
 %
Business interruption proceeds
—

 
—
 %
 
(164
)
 
1.9
 %
 
41

 
(0.2
)%
Other
(193
)
 
0.7
 %
 
229

 
(2.6
)%
 
(1,218
)
 
5.0
 %
Foreign exchange rate differences
(3,561
)
 
11.4
 %
 
(3,183
)
 
36.1
 %
 
7,212

 
(29.5
)%
Dominican Republic tax classification
(5,145
)
 
16.5
 %
 
3,994

 
(45.3
)%
 
(3,470
)
 
14.2
 %
Dutch and U.S. rate change
(13,721
)
 
44.0
 %
 
(2,590
)
 
29.4
 %
 
—

 
—
 %
Change in valuation allowance
(299
)
 
1.0
 %
 
(19,981
)
 
226.8
 %
 
(10,949
)
 
44.8
 %
Accrual for uncertain tax positions
—

 
—
 %
 
—

 
—
 %
 
510

 
(2.1
)%
Income tax provision
$
(12,199
)
 
39.1
 %
 
$
(9,051
)
 
102.7
 %
 
$
(4,232
)
 
17.3
 %
We are domiciled in The Netherlands and are taxed in The Netherlands with our other Dutch subsidiaries. Dutch companies are subject to Dutch corporate income tax at a general tax rate of 25%.
For the year ended December 31, 2018, we recognized an income tax provision of $12.2 million, resulting in an effective tax rate for the year of 39.1%. The 2018 income tax provision was driven primarily by $13.7 million tax expense on measurement of the Dutch deferred tax assets and liabilities pursuant to the Dutch tax rate change, an $8.0 million tax expense on non-deductible interest and other expenses, a $5.1 million expense associated with our Dominican Republic tax paying entities and a $3.6 million tax expense associated with foreign exchange rate fluctuations. The net income tax expense was partially offset by the tax benefit of $21.6 million from the rate-favorable jurisdictions and a $4.8 million tax benefit associated with inflation adjustments.
For the year ended December 31, 2017, we recognized an income tax provision of $9.1 million, resulting in an effective tax rate for the year of 102.7%. The 2017 income tax provision was driven primarily by $20.0 million tax expense due to additional valuation allowance established on our deferred tax assets, a $3.2 million tax expense associated with foreign exchange rate fluctuations and a $7.0 million tax expense on non-deductible interest and other expenses. The net income tax expense was partially offset by the tax benefit of $16.3 million from the rate-favorable jurisdictions, a $5.0 million tax benefit associated with inflation adjustments and a $4.0 million tax benefit on the reversal of the 2016 tax expense for one of our Dominican Republic entities pursuant to the Advanced Pricing Agreement (“APA”) signed with Dominican Republic tax authorities in December 2017. This agreement is retroactive to 2016.
For the year ended December 31, 2016, we recognized an income tax expense of $4.2 million, resulting in an effective tax rate for the year of 17.3%. The 2016 income tax expense was driven primarily by $3.5 million of deferred income tax expense in the Dominican Republic, $3.9 million tax expense on non-deductible expenses, as well as $10.9 million tax expense due to additional valuation allowance established on our deferred tax assets. The net income tax expense was partially offset by the tax benefit of $11.7 million from the rate-favorable jurisdictions, a $1.9 million tax benefit associated with inflation adjustments and a $7.2 million tax benefit associated with foreign exchange rate fluctuation.
We have a taxable presence in a variety of jurisdictions worldwide, most significantly in Mexico, the Netherlands, the Dominican Republic and Jamaica. We have been granted certain “tax holidays,” providing us with temporary income tax exemptions. Specifically, two of our entities in the Dominican Republic are under a tax holiday. Inversiones Vilazul, S.A.S, has a tax exemption through December 31, 2019 and Playa Dominican Resorts B.V. is tax exempt for 15 years following the completion of the Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana and Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana.
Effect of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act
On December 22, 2017 the U.S. government enacted comprehensive tax legislation, commonly referred to as U.S. Tax Reform. The Company recognized the income tax effects of tax reform in its financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2017, in

95

accordance with Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB) No. 118, which provides SEC staff guidance for the application of ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes. As noted in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company completed its deferred tax accounting related to the reduction to the U.S. corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21%. The Company finalized its accounting for tax reform, pursuant to SAB 118 and did not make any significant measurement period adjustments for the year ended December 31, 2018. Since we are a Dutch owned Company and do not have any controlled foreign corporations under U.S. tax law, we concluded that the new legislation related to global intangible low-taxed income (“GILTI”) and base erosion anti-abuse tax (“BEAT”) do not have a material impact to our financial statement and therefore no policy decision is required.
Effects of the Dutch Tax Rate Change
On December 18, 2018, the Dutch Senate approved the 2019 tax package. Effective January 1, 2019, the corporate tax rate reduced from 25% to 22.55% for 2020, and 20.5% for 2021 and forward for amounts in excess of EUR200,000. These adjusted rates impact the carrying value of the Company’s deferred tax assets that are offset by a full valuation allowance. Additionally, our Netherlands entities have deferred tax liabilities on fixed assets without a valuation allowance. Our Netherlands deferred tax assets decreased $14.4 million and valuation allowance decreased $14.4 million without resulting in financial impact. Our Netherlands deferred tax liabilities on fixed assets decreased by $0.7 million, which has a deferred tax benefit of $0.7 million impact to the financial statement at the year ended December 31, 2018.
Dominican Republic

Taxes in the Dominican Republic are determined based upon APAs approved by the Ministry of Finance of the Dominican Republic. As the associated APAs had not been finalized as of December 31, 2016, our 2016 income tax provision contemplated the existing Dominican statutory law, without consideration of an associated APA, and we recorded $0.6 million current tax expense and $3.4 million deferred tax expense for one of our Dominican Republic entities, Playa Cana B.V., as of December 31, 2016.

APAs were signed in December 2017 and remain in effect until 2019. Pursuant to the signed APAs, our Dominican Republic entities are subject to the greater of an income tax, asset tax or gross receipts tax. In 2017, our tax paying Dominican Republic entities were not income tax payers and we project the same trend for the foreseeable future; therefore, our Dominican Republic entities are not subject to income tax accounting under U.S. GAAP. As such, the income tax expense recorded at December 31, 2016 was reversed at December 31, 2017.

During 2018, Dominican Republic tax paying entities were subject to income tax. We projected that they will be subject to income taxes in some of the foreseeable years. We infer from ASC 740-10-55-144 that under these circumstances, a hybrid tax rate is applicable to compute deferred tax expenses. As such, for the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company has recorded a current income tax expense of $0.3 million and a deferred tax expense of $4.8 million. The Company will closely monitor the operation in our Dominican Republic entities and update the computation as necessary on a quarterly basis.
Deferred income taxes
Deferred income tax balances reflect the effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities and their tax bases, as well as net operating losses and tax credit carry-forwards. We measure those balances using the enacted tax rates we expect will be in effect when we pay or recover taxes. Deferred income tax assets represent amounts available to reduce income taxes we will pay on taxable income in future years. We evaluate our ability to realize these future tax deductions and credits by assessing whether we expect to have sufficient future taxable income from all sources, including reversal of taxable temporary differences, forecasted operating earnings and available tax planning strategies to utilize these future deductions and credits. We establish a valuation allowance when we no longer consider it more likely than not that a deferred tax asset will be realized.

96

The tax effect of each type of temporary difference and carry-forward that gives rise to a significant portion of our deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 were as follows ($ in thousands):
 
As of December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Deferred tax assets:
 
 
 
Advance customer deposits
$
6,098

 
$
6,010

Trade payables and other accruals
5,210

 
5,072

Labor liability accrual
757

 
688

Property and equipment
766

 
45

Net operating losses
98,874

 
101,003

Total deferred tax asset
111,705

 
112,818

Valuation allowance
(94,575
)
 
(98,755
)
Net deferred tax asset
17,130

 
14,063

 
 
 
 
Deferred tax liabilities:
 
 
 
Accounts receivable and prepayments to vendors
1,113

 
928

Property and equipment
119,800

 
89,080

Other liabilities
823

 
73

Total deferred tax liability
121,736

 
90,081

Net deferred tax liability
$
(104,606
)
 
$
(76,018
)
As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, we had $18.9 million and $17.4 million, respectively, of net operating loss carryforwards in our Mexican subsidiaries. The carryforwards expire between 2019 to 2028.
As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, Playa had $349.5 million and $318.1 million, respectively, of net operating loss carryforwards in our Dutch subsidiaries that expire in varying amounts from 2019 to 2027.
As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, Playa had $61.0 million and $49.4 million, respectively, of net operating loss carryforwards in our Jamaica subsidiary. Jamaican NOL's do not expire, however, the utilization is limited to 50% of taxable income before the net operating loss deduction annually for our legacy Jamaican entity. This 50% cap does not apply to our newely formed Jamaican entities because of the exception that it does not apply during the five years of assessment following the first year of operation of a new trade, profession, or business.
As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, Playa had $20.5 million and $15.2 million, respectively, of net operating loss carryforwards in our U.S. subsidiary. These carryforwards generated pre-2018 expire in various amounts from 2034 to 2037, while net operating losses generated in 2018 and forward do not expire.
As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, Playa had no net operating loss carryforwards in our Dominican Republic subsidiary. The carryforwards expired in 2017.
The ability to utilize the tax net operating losses in any single year ultimately depends upon our ability to generate sufficient taxable income.
We have made no provision for foreign or domestic income taxes on the cumulative unremitted earnings of our subsidiaries. We believe that the earnings of our foreign subsidiaries can be repatriated without incurring additional income taxes, as a result of the applicable local statutory tax laws.

97

The change in the valuation allowance established against our deferred tax assets for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 is summarized in the following table ($ in thousands):
 
Balance at
January 1
 
Additions
 
Deductions 
 
Balance at
December 31
Deferred tax asset valuation allowance for the year ended
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2018
$
(98,755
)
 
$
(23,789
)
 
$
27,969

 
$
(94,575
)
December 31, 2017
$
(81,738
)
 
$
(19,469
)
 
$
2,452

 
$
(98,755
)
December 31, 2016
$
(71,847
)
 
$
(19,333
)
 
$
9,442

 
$
(81,738
)
The valuation allowance for each period is used to reduce the deferred tax asset to a more likely than not realizable value. As of December 31, 2018, our valuation allowance relates primarily to net operating loss carryforwards, which we do not expect to utilize, most notably in Netherlands, Jamaica, the United States and certain legal entities in Mexico.
We are subject to income taxes in a variety of jurisdictions worldwide. For our significant jurisdictions, the earliest years that remain subject to examination are 2008 for Mexico, 2016 for Netherlands and 2014 for the Dominican Republic, Jamaica and the United States. We consider the potential outcome of current and future examinations in our assessment of our reserve for uncertain tax positions.
The following table reconciles our uncertain tax positions, as of December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016: ($ in thousands):
 
As of December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Uncertain tax positions at January 1
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
510

Additions for prior year tax positions
—

 
—

 
—

Settlements with Taxing Authorities
—

 
—

 
—

Expiration of statue limitation
—

 
—

 
(510
)
Uncertain tax positions at December 31
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
—

The reserve of $0.5 million for the uncertain tax position was for the withholding taxes related to intercompany charges at December 31, 2015, which was removed due to the expiration of the statute limitation at December 31, 2016. There were no uncertain tax positions recognized during 2018.
Note 7. Related party transactions
Relationship with Hyatt
In connection with the Pace Business Combination, all outstanding Preferred Shares of our Predecessor owned by HI Holdings Playa were purchased at a purchase price of $8.40 per share for $196.0 million in face value and $93.6 million of associated PIK dividends. Subsequent to the Pace Business Combination, Hyatt continued to be a related party due to its ownership of ordinary shares and representation on our Board of Directors.
We pay Hyatt fees associated with the franchise agreements of our resorts operating under the all-ages Hyatt Ziva and adults-only Hyatt Zilara brands and receive reimbursements for guests that pay for their stay using the World of Hyatt® guest loyalty program.
Relationship with Real Shareholder
In connection with the Pace Business Combination, all outstanding Preferred Shares of our Predecessor owned by the selling shareholder of Real Resorts (“Real Shareholder”) were purchased at a purchase price of $8.40 per share for $43.5 million in face value and $20.8 million of associated PIK dividends. Upon the consummation of the Pace Business Combination, the Real Shareholder was no longer considered a related party because the Preferred Shares were extinguished in connection with the Pace Business Combination.
The Real Shareholder was one of the lenders of our term loan associated with the Senior Secured Credit Facility, as defined in Note 14. Additionally, one of our previous offices in Cancún, Mexico was owned by an affiliate of the Real Shareholder, and we subleased the space from a third party also affiliated with the Real Shareholder. We terminated this lease agreement effective July 1, 2017. Lease

98

payments related to this space were less than $0.1 million and $0.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
Relationship with Sagicor
In connection with the acquisition of the Sagicor Assets, we issued 20,000,000 ordinary shares of our common stock to affiliates of Sagicor Group Jamaica Limited (“Sagicor”). Sagicor is considered a related party due to the ownership of ordinary shares by its affiliate and representation on our Board of Directors. Celebration Brands, a beverage distributor in Jamaica, is also considered a related party as one of our Board of Directors, who was nominated by Sagicor, is the chairman of the board of directors for Celebration Brands.
For our Jamaica properties, we purchase beverages from Celebration Brands and pay Sagicor for insurance coverage for our properties and our employees. As of December 31, 2018, we were also owed approximately $4.8 million from Sagicor related to advance deposits and credit card collections which were paid to Sagicor, rather than us, following the acquisition.
Lease with our Chief Executive Officer
One of our offices is owned by our Chief Executive Officer, and we sublease the space at that location from a third party. Lease payments related to this space were $1.0 million, $1.0 million and $1.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
Transactions with related parties
Transactions between us and related parties during the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 were as follows ($ in thousands):
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Hyatt franchise fees (1)
$
16,688

 
$
14,105

 
$
13,539

Employee insurance premiums paid to Sagicor (1)
542

 
—

 
—

Property insurance premiums paid to Sagicor (1)
1,223

 
—

 
—

Purchases from Celebration Brands (1)
795

 
—

 
—

Lease payments (2)
989

 
1,032

 
1,301

Dividends on the Preferred Shares (3)
—

 
7,922

 
43,676

Deferred consideration accretion (4)
—

 
36

 
189

Interest expense on related party debt (4)
—

 
372

 
1,980

Total transactions with related parties
$
20,237

 
$
23,467

 
$
60,685

________
(1) 
Included in direct expense in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) with the exception of certain immaterial fees associated with the Hyatt franchise agreements, which are included in selling, general, and administrative expense.
(2) 
Included in selling, general, and administrative expense in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).
(3) 
Included in dividends of Preferred Shares in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).
(4) 
Included in interest expense in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).
Note 8. Commitments and contingencies
Litigation, claims and assessments
We are involved in various claims and lawsuits arising in the normal course of business, including proceedings involving tort and other general liability claims, and workers' compensation and other employee claims. Most occurrences involving liability and claims of negligence are covered by insurance with solvent insurance carriers. We recognize a liability when we believe the loss is probable and reasonably estimable. We currently believe that the ultimate outcome of such lawsuits and proceedings will not, individually or in the aggregate, have a material effect on our Consolidated Financial Statements.
The Dutch corporate income tax act provides the option of a fiscal unity, which is a consolidated tax regime wherein the profits and losses of group companies can be offset against each other. Our Dutch companies file as a fiscal unity, with the exception of Playa

99

Romana B.V., Playa Romana Mar B.V. and Playa Hotels & Resorts N.V. Playa Resorts Holding B.V. is the head of our Dutch fiscal unity and is jointly and severally liable for the tax liabilities of the fiscal unity as a whole.
During the third quarter of 2015, we identified and recorded a potential Dutch operating tax contingency resulting from allocations to be made of certain corporate expenses from 2014 and 2015. We provided all requested documentation to the Dutch tax authorities and, in the fourth quarter of 2018, they reached their final determination resulting in a gain of $1.2 million reported in other income (expense) for the year ended December 31, 2018. As of December 31, 2018, there was no operating tax contingency outstanding.
Electricity supply contract
One of our subsidiaries entered into an electricity supply contract wherein we committed to purchase electricity from a provider over a five-year period ending December 2019. In consideration for our commitment, we received certain rebates. Should this contract be terminated prior to the end of the five-year period, we will be obligated to refund to the supplier the undepreciated portion of (i) the capital investment it made to connect our facilities to the power grid (original amount approximately $1.4 million) and (ii) the unearned rebates we received (total unearned rebates of $0.4 million and $0.8 million as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively), in each case using a 20% straight-line depreciation per annum.
Leases and other commitments
Our portfolio of operating leases extends for varying periods through 2030, containing fixed and variable components. Our minimum future rents, at December 31, 2018, payable under non-cancelable operating leases with third parties and related parties were as follows ($ in thousands):
 
As of December 31, 2018
2019
$
1,199

2020
1,031

2021
1,016

2022
1,044

2023
745

Thereafter
3,394

Total
$
8,429

Rental expense under non-cancelable operating leases, including contingent and variable components, consisted of $2.4 million, $2.0 million and $2.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
Note 9. Ordinary shares
As of December 31, 2015, the number of ordinary shares presented as outstanding totaled 50,481,822, consisting of the number of ordinary shares issued to Predecessor shareholders after the retroactive application of the recapitalization in the Pace Business Combination (see Note 4). On March 12, 2017, 52,982,364 ordinary shares were issued as part of the recapitalization.
On May 22, 2017, we commenced an offer to exchange 0.1 ordinary shares for each outstanding warrant issued to former shareholders of Pace, former holders of certain privately placed warrants of Pace and our Predecessor's former ordinary shareholders. On June 23, 2017, a total of 65,933,459 warrants were tendered, resulting in the issuance of 6,593,321 ordinary shares. On July 17, 2017, 1,066,541 warrants were exchanged for 95,988 ordinary shares.
On December 28, 2017, a member of our Board of Directors waived his previously granted share-based compensation for his services as a member of our Board, and transferred 7,367 ordinary shares back to us for no consideration. The shares are recorded as treasury shares on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2018.
On June 1, 2018, 20,000,000 ordinary shares were issued as part of the business combination with the Sagicor Parties (see Note 4).

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On December 17, 2018, the Company's Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $100.0 million of its outstanding ordinary shares as market conditions and the Company's liquidity warrant. Repurchases may be made from time to time in the open market, in privately negotiated transactions or by other means (including Rule 10b5-1 trading plans). Depending on market conditions and other factors, these repurchases may be commenced or suspended from time to time without prior notice. During the fourth quarter of 2018, the Company purchased 47,241 ordinary shares under the repurchase program. The shares repurchased are recorded as treasury shares on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2018.
As of December 31, 2018, our ordinary share capital consisted of 130,440,126 ordinary shares outstanding, which have a par value of €0.10 per share. In addition, 2,232,747 restricted shares and 9,482 share units were outstanding under the 2017 Plan (as defined in Note 11). The holders of restricted shares are entitled to vote, but not dispose of, such shares until they vest. The holders of share units are neither entitled to vote nor dispose of such shares until they vest.
Note 10. Warrants
We issued 3,000,000 warrants to our Predecessor's former ordinary shareholders and TPG Pace Sponsor, LLC, a Cayman Islands limited liability company and an affiliate of TPG Global, LLC, as consideration in the Pace Business Combination (the “Earnout Warrants”). The Earnout Warrants entitle such warrant holders to acquire one ordinary share for each Earnout Warrant for an exercise price of €0.10 per ordinary share in the event that the price per share underlying the Earnout Warrants on the NASDAQ is greater than $13.00 for a period of more than 20 days out of 30 consecutive trading days within the five years after the closing date of the Pace Business Combination. The Earnout Warrants expire five years after the completion of the Pace Business Combination or earlier upon redemption or liquidation in accordance with their term.
On August 8, 2018, we repurchased 12,230 of the outstanding Earnout Warrants for less than $0.1 million. The Earnout Warrant repurchase resulted in a reduction to paid-in capital and had no impact on our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the year ended December 31, 2018.
As of December 31, 2018, there were 2,987,770 Earnout Warrants outstanding.
Note 11. Share-based compensation
The Company adopted the 2017 Omnibus Incentive Plan (the “2017 Plan”) to attract and retain independent directors, executive officers and other key employees and service providers. The 2017 Plan was approved by the Board of Directors and shareholders of the Company on March 10, 2017. The 2017 Plan is administered by the Compensation Committee of our Board of Directors, who may grant awards covering a maximum of 4,000,000 of our ordinary shares under the 2017 Plan. The Compensation Committee may award share options, share appreciation rights, restricted shares, share units, unrestricted shares, dividend equivalent rights, performance shares and other performance-based awards, other equity-based awards and cash bonus awards. As of December 31, 2018, there were 1,162,129 shares available for future grants under the 2017 Plan.

Restricted share awards
Restricted share awards consist of restricted shares and share units that are granted to eligible employees, executives, and board members and consist of ordinary shares (or the right to receive ordinary shares) subject to restrictions and to a risk of forfeiture. Restricted share awards issued to employees and executives of the Company generally vest over a period of three or five years. Restricted share unit awards issued to certain employees of the Company generally vest over a period of three years. For restricted share awards and restricted share unit awards with a three year vesting period, one-third of the award vests on the first three anniversaries of the grant date of the award. For restricted share awards with a five year vesting period, 25% of the award vests on the third anniversary of the grant date of the award, 25% vests on the fourth anniversary of the grant date of the award and 50% vests on the fifth anniversary of the grant date of the award. Restricted share awards issued to directors of the Company for their services as directors generally vest immediately on the grant date of the award.

The vesting of restricted share awards and restricted share unit awards is subject to the holder’s continued employment through the applicable vesting date. Unvested restricted share awards and unvested restricted share unit awards will be forfeited if the employee’s or the executive’s employment terminates during the vesting period, provided that unvested restricted share awards and unvested restricted share unit awards will accelerate upon certain terminations of employment as set forth in the applicable award agreements.

The holders of restricted shares have the right to vote the restricted shares and receive all dividends declared and paid on such shares, provided that dividends paid on unvested restricted shares will be subject to the same conditions and restrictions applicable to the underlying restricted shares. The holders of share units have no right to vote the underlying shares and may be entitled to be credited with dividend equivalents in respect of each cash dividend declared and paid by the Company, in an amount per share unit equal to the

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per-share dividend paid on our ordinary shares, which dividend equivalents will be deemed to have been reinvested in additional share units that are subject to the same terms and conditions applicable to the underlying share units to which they relate.

Compensation expense for the restricted share awards is measured based upon the fair market value of our ordinary shares at the date of grant and is recognized on a straight-line basis over the vesting period.

A summary of our restricted share awards from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2018 is as follows:
 
Number of Shares
 
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
Unvested balance at January 1, 2018
1,265,830

 
$
10.19

Granted
750,881

 
10.25

Vested
(189,670
)
 
10.34

Forfeited
(108,357
)
 
10.32

Unvested balance at December 31, 2018
1,718,684

 
$
10.19


The total fair value of vested restricted share awards during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 was $2.0 million and $1.5 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the unrecognized compensation cost related to restricted share awards was $12.5 million and $11.0 million, respectively, and is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately 2.7 years and 3.8 years, respectively.

Compensation expense related to the restricted share awards was $5.1 million and $3.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Compensation expense is recorded within selling, general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).
Performance share awards
Performance share awards consist of ordinary shares that may become earned and vested based on the achievement of performance targets adopted by our Compensation Committee. The actual number of ordinary shares that ultimately vest will range from 0% to 150% of the target award and will be determined at the end of the three year performance period based on two performance criteria as defined in the applicable award agreements for the period of performance.

Any ordinary shares that ultimately vest based on the achievement of the applicable performance criteria will be deemed to be vested on the date on which our Compensation Committee certifies the level of achievement of such performance criteria. Except in connection with certain qualifying terminations of employment, as set forth in the applicable award agreements, the awards require continued service through the certification date. The holders of these awards have voting rights equivalent to the target level of ordinary shares granted to the holder and any dividends declared on such shares will be accumulated and paid within 30 days after and to the extent the target ordinary shares vest.

The grant date fair value of the portion of the award based on the compounded annual growth rate of the Company's total shareholder return was estimated using a Monte-Carlo model. The table below summarizes the key inputs used in the Monte-Carlo simulation ($ in thousands):
Performance Award Grant Date
 
Percentage of Total Award
 
Grant Date Fair Value by Component
 
Volatility (1)
 
Interest
Rate (2)
 
Dividend Yield
May 26, 2017
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total Shareholder Return
 
50
%
 
$
770

 
27.02
%
 
1.39
%
 
—
%
Adjusted EBITDA Comparison
 
50
%
 
$
1,350

 
—
%
 
—
%
 
—
%
January 2, 2018
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total Shareholder Return
 
50
%
 
$
860

 
26.13
%
 
2.00
%
 
—
%
Adjusted EBITDA Comparison
 
50
%
 
$
1,475

 
—
%
 
—
%
 
—
%
________
(1) Expected volatility was determined based on the historical share prices in our industry.
(2) The risk-free rate was based on U.S. Treasury zero coupon issues with a remaining term equal to the remaining term of the measurement period.


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In the table above, the total shareholder return component is a market condition as defined by ASC 718, Compensation—Stock Compensation, and compensation expense related to this component is recognized on a straight-line basis over the vesting period. The grant date fair value of the portion of the awards based on the compounded annual growth rate of the Company's Adjusted EBITDA (as defined in Note 19) was based on the closing stock price of our ordinary shares on such date. The Adjusted EBITDA component is a performance condition as defined by ASC 718, and, therefore, compensation expense related to this component is reassessed at each reporting date based on the Company's estimate of the probable level of achievement, and the accrual of compensation expense is adjusted as appropriate.

A summary of our performance share awards from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2018 is as follows:
 
Number of Shares
 
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
Unvested balance at January 1, 2018
265,222

 
$
7.99

Granted
273,729

 
8.53

Forfeited
(15,406
)
 
8.53

Unvested balance at December 31, 2018
523,545

 
$
8.26


As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the unrecognized compensation cost related to the performance share awards was $1.8 million and $1.9 million, respectively, and is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.8 years and 2.0 years, respectively. Compensation expense related to the performance share awards was $1.0 million and $0.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively, and is recorded within selling, general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).
Note 12. Preferred Shares
Prior to the consummation of the Pace Business Combination, all of our Predecessor's Preferred Shares were purchased at a purchase price of $8.40 per share for an aggregate amount of $353.9 million, which consisted of $239.5 million in face value and $114.4 million of associated PIK dividends. The Preferred Shares issued by our Predecessor were eliminated and extinguished as part of the reverse merger in the Pace Business Combination. The extinguishment is reflected as a non-cash financing activity in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.
Note 13. Earnings per share
Prior to the consummation of the Pace Business Combination, our Preferred Shares and their related accumulated Non-cash PIK Dividends were participating securities. If a dividend was declared or paid on our Predecessor’s ordinary shares, holders of our Predecessor’s ordinary shares and Preferred Shares were entitled to proportionate shares of such dividend, with the holders of our Predecessor's Preferred Shares participating on an as-if converted basis.
Under the two-class method, basic earnings (losses) per share (“EPS”) attributable to ordinary shareholders is computed by dividing the net income (loss) attributable to ordinary shareholders by the weighted-average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the period. Net income (loss) attributable to ordinary shareholders is determined by allocating undistributed earnings between ordinary and preferred shareholders. For periods in which there are undistributed losses, there is no allocation of undistributed earnings to preferred shareholders.
Diluted EPS attributable to ordinary shareholders is computed by using the more dilutive result of the two-class method, the if-converted method or the treasury stock method. The if-converted method uses the weighted-average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the period, including potentially dilutive ordinary shares assuming the conversion of the outstanding Preferred Shares of our Predecessor, as of the first day of the reporting period. The dilutive effect of awards under our equity compensation plan is reflected in diluted earnings per share by application of the treasury stock method.
Under the two-class method, the number of shares used in the computation of diluted losses per share is the same as that used for the computation of basic earnings per share for participating securities, as the result would be anti-dilutive. The net income attributable to ordinary shareholders is not allocated to the Preferred Shares until all other reserves have been exhausted or such loss cannot be covered in any other way.

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The calculations of basic and diluted EPS are as follows ($ in thousands, except share data):
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Numerator:
 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss)
$
18,977

 
$
(241
)
 
$
20,216

Non-cash dividend to warrant holders
—

 
(879
)
 
—

Convertible Preferred Share dividends
—

 
(7,922
)
 
(43,676
)
Allocation of undistributed earnings to preferred shareholders (1)
—

 
—

 
—

Numerator for basic EPS - earnings (loss) available to ordinary shareholders
18,977

 
(9,042
)
 
(23,460
)
Add back convertible Preferred Share dividends (1)
—

 
—

 
—

Add back of undistributed earnings to preferred shareholders (1)
—

 
—

 
—

Numerator for diluted EPS - earnings (loss) available to ordinary shareholders after assumed conversions
$
18,977

 
$
(9,042
)
 
$
(23,460
)
Denominator:
 
 
 
 
 
Denominator for basic EPS - weighted-average shares
122,150,851

 
96,896,498

 
50,481,822

Effect of dilutive securities:
 
 
 
 
 
Unvested restricted share awards
267,649

 
—

 
—

Convertible Preferred Shares
—

 
—

 
—

Denominator for diluted EPS - adjusted weighted-average shares
122,418,500

 
96,896,498

 
50,481,822

EPS - Basic
$
0.16

 
$
(0.09
)
 
$
(0.46
)
EPS - Diluted
$
0.16

 
$
(0.09
)
 
$
(0.46
)
_______
(1) For the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, no undistributed earnings were allocated to the preferred shareholders of our Predecessor as we had undistributed losses after deducting Preferred Share dividends of our Predecessor from net income. For the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, Preferred Share dividends of our Predecessor of $7.9 million and $43.7 million, respectively, were not added back for purposes of calculating diluted EPS because the effect of treating our Predecessor's Preferred Shares as if they had been converted to their 7,898,432 and 40,652,679 ordinary share equivalents as of January 1, 2017 and 2016 respectively, was anti-dilutive.

For the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, 9,482 and 1,265,830 of unvested restricted share awards, respectively, were not included in the computation of diluted EPS as their effect would have been anti-dilutive.

For the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, 523,545 and 265,222 of unvested performance-based equity awards, respectively, were not included in the computation of diluted EPS after assumed conversions as the performance criteria were not met as of the end of the reporting period.

For the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, outstanding Earnout Warrants to acquire a total of 2,987,770 and 3,000,000 ordinary shares, respectively, were not included in the computation of diluted EPS after assumed conversions because the warrants were not exercisable as of the end of the reporting period.

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Note 14. Debt
Debt consists of the following ($ in thousands):
 
As of December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Debt obligations
 
 
 
Term Loan (1)
$
996,548

 
$
906,398

Revolving Credit Facility (2)
—

 
—

Total debt obligations
996,548

 
906,398

Unamortized discount and debt issuance costs
 
 
 
Discount on Term Loan
(2,681
)
 
(2,600
)
Unamortized debt issuance costs on Term Loan
(4,480
)
 
(5,583
)
Total unamortized discount and debt issuance costs
(7,161
)
 
(8,183
)
Total debt
$
989,387

 
$
898,215

_____
(1) 
As of December 31, 2018, our Term Loan bore interest at a floating rate of 5.27%, which was equal to one-month London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus 2.75%. As of December 31, 2017, our Term Loan bore interest at a floating rate of 4.62%, which was equal to three-month LIBOR plus 3.25%. Effective March 29, 2018, we entered into two interest rate swaps to fix LIBOR at 2.85% on $800.0 million of our Term Loan (See Note 15).
(2) 
The commitment fee on the $100.0 million undrawn balance of our Revolving Credit Facility bore interest of 0.5% as of December 31, 2018. The commitment fee may range from 0.5% to 0.25% depending on certain leverage ratios. For any drawn balances, the Revolving Credit Facility bears interest at one-month LIBOR plus 3.0%.

Aggregate debt maturities for future annual periods are as follows ($ in thousands):
 
As of December 31, 2018
2019
$
10,100

2020
10,100

2021
10,100

2022
10,100

2023
10,100

Thereafter
946,048

Total
$
996,548

Senior Secured Credit Facility

Playa Resorts Holding B.V., a subsidiary of ours, holds a senior secured credit facility (“Senior Secured Credit Facility”), which consisted of a term loan facility which was originally scheduled to mature on August 9, 2018 and a revolving credit facility which was scheduled to mature on August 9, 2018.

On April 27, 2017, we entered into the First Amendment to Amended & Restated Credit Agreement (the “First Amendment”), which amended and restated our Senior Secured Credit Facility, consisting of a $530.0 million term loan (the “First Term Loan”) and a revolving credit facility (the “Revolving Credit Facility”) with a maximum aggregate borrowing capacity of $100.0 million which were scheduled to mature on April 27, 2024 and April 27, 2022, respectively. The proceeds received from the First Term Loan were used to repay our existing term loan, $115.0 million of our Senior Notes due 2020 and for other general corporate purposes.

On December 6, 2017, we amended our Senior Secured Credit Facility and exercised our option to request an incremental term loan of$380.0 million (the “Second Term Loan”). The interest rate on our First and Second Term Loans was subsequently set to LIBOR plus 3.25% where the applicable LIBOR rate has a 1.0% floor. The proceeds received from the Second Term Loan were used to repay our Senior Notes due 2020. The Second Term Loan, repayment of our existing term loan and repayment of our Senior Notes due 2020 were accounted for as a partial modification and partial extinguishment of debt, which resulted in a loss on extinguishment of debt of $25.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2017.

On June 7, 2018, we entered into the Second Amendment to Amended & Restated Credit Agreement (the “Second Amendment”), which amended the First Amendment to, among other things (i) effect an incremental term loan facility of $100.0 million (the

105

“Incremental Term Loan” and, together with the existing terms loans that were in effect prior to the Second Amendment, the “Term Loan”) pursuant to our option to request incremental loans under the Existing Credit Agreement and (ii) decrease the interest rate applicable to the Term Loan by 0.50% to, at our option, either a base rate plus a margin of 1.75% or LIBOR plus a margin of 2.75%. The other terms to the Senior Secured Credit Facility were not affected by the Second Amendment.

The obligations under the Senior Secured Credit Facility are guaranteed by (a) substantially all of our material subsidiaries, subject to certain exceptions and (b) the Company on a limited recourse basis, with such guaranty being secured by a lien on the our ordinary shares.

The obligations are further secured by, among other things, a lien on (i) all hotels located in Mexico, (ii) certain personal property associated with such hotel properties and (iii) pledges of equity interests in certain of our subsidiaries that directly or indirectly own equity interests in any hotel property or certain management companies.
Financial maintenance covenants
Our refinanced Senior Secured Credit Facility requires us to meet a springing leverage ratio financial maintenance covenant, but only if the aggregate amount outstanding on our Revolving Credit Facility exceeds 35% of the aggregate revolving credit commitments as defined in our Senior Secured Credit Facility. We were in compliance with all applicable covenants as of December 31, 2018.
Note 15. Derivative financial instruments
Interest rate swaps
Effective March 29, 2018, we entered into two interest rate swaps to mitigate the interest rate risk inherent to our floating rate debt, including the Revolving Credit Facility and Term Loan. The interest rate swaps have fixed notional values of $200.0 million and $600.0 million. The fixed rate paid by us is 2.85% and the variable rate received resets monthly to the one-month LIBOR rate, which results in us fixing LIBOR at 2.85% on $800.0 million of our Term Loan. The interest rate swaps are not for trading purposes and we have not designated the interest rate swaps for hedge accounting treatment. As a result, changes in fair value of the interest rate swaps are recognized in earnings immediately as interest expense in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). The interest rate swaps mature on March 31, 2023.

The following table presents the location and effects of the derivative instruments in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 ($ in thousands):
 
 
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
Derivatives not Designated as Hedging Instruments
 
Financial Statement Classification
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Interest rate swaps
 
Interest expense (1)
 
$
17,093

 
$
—

 
$
—

_______
(1) Includes the change in fair value of our interest rate swaps and the cash interest paid for the monthly settlements of the derivative during the period.

The following table presents the location and fair value of the derivative instruments in the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 ($ in thousands):
 
 
 
 
As of December 31,
Derivatives not Designated as Hedging Instruments
 
Balance Sheet Classification
 
2018
 
2017
Derivative liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate swaps
 
Derivative financial instruments
 
$
12,476

 
$
—


Derivative financial instruments expose the Company to credit risk in the event of non-performance by the counterparty under the terms of the interest rate swaps. The Company incorporates these counterparty credit risks in its fair value measurements (see Note 16). The Company believes it minimizes this credit risk by transacting with major creditworthy financial institutions.
Note 16. Fair value of financial instruments
The objective of a fair value measurement is to estimate the price at which an orderly transaction to sell the asset or to transfer the liability would take place between market participants at the measurement date under current market conditions. U.S. GAAP

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establishes a hierarchical disclosure framework, which prioritizes and ranks the level of observability of inputs used in measuring fair value as follows:
•
Level 1: Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
•
Level 2: Unadjusted quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, or unadjusted quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, or inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability.
•
Level 3: Inputs are unobservable and reflect our judgments about assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability.
We believe the carrying value of our financial instruments, excluding our debt, approximate their fair values as of December 31, 2018 and 2017. We did not have any Level 3 instruments during any of the above periods.
The following table presents our fair value hierarchy for our financial liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2018 ($ in thousands):
 
 
December 31, 2018
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
Fair value measurements on a recurring basis:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate swap
 
$
12,476

 
$
—

 
$
12,476

 
$
—

The following table presents a reconciliation from the opening balances to the closing balances for our Level 3 fair valued instruments as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 ($ in thousands):
 
Deferred Consideration
Balance as of December 31, 2015
$
4,145

Total losses included in earnings (or change in net assets) (1)
201

Settlements
(2,510
)
Balance as of December 31, 2016
1,836

Total losses included in earnings (or change in net assets) (1)
654

Settlements
(2,490
)
Balance as of December 31, 2017
$
—

________
(1) All losses and gains (other than changes in net assets) are included in interest expense in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).

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The following tables present our fair value hierarchy for our financial liabilities not measured at fair value as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 ($ in thousands):
 
 
Carrying Value
 
Fair Value
 
 
As of December 31, 2018
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
Financial liabilities not recorded at fair value:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Debt:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Term Loan
 
$
989,387

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
927,025

Revolving Credit Facility
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Total
 
$
989,387

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
927,025

 
 
Carrying Value
 
Fair Value
 
 
As of December 31, 2017
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
Financial liabilities not recorded at fair value:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Debt:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Term Loan
 
$
898,215

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
916,369

Revolving Credit Facility
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Total
 
$
898,215

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
916,369

The following table summarizes the valuation techniques used to estimate the fair value of our financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis and our financial instruments not measured at fair value:
 
 
Valuation Technique
Financial instruments recorded at fair value:
 
 
Interest rate swaps
 
The fair value of the interest rate swaps is estimated based on the expected future cash flows by incorporating the notional amount of the swaps, the contractual period to maturity, and observable market-based inputs, including interest rate curves. The fair value also incorporates credit valuation adjustments to appropriately reflect nonperformance risk.
Financial instruments not recorded at fair value:
 
 
Term Loan
 
The fair value of our Term Loan is estimated using cash flow projections over the remaining contractual period by applying market forward rates and discounting back at the appropriate discount rate.
Revolving Credit Facility
 
The valuation technique of our Revolving Credit Facility is consistent with our Term Loan. The fair value of the Revolving Credit Facility approximates its carrying value as the expected term is significantly shorter in duration.
Note 17. Employee benefit plan
In accordance with labor law regulations in Mexico, certain employees are legally entitled to receive severance that is commensurate with the tenure they had with us at the time of termination. Our pension obligation is a Level 3 financial instrument that is recorded at fair value and calculated using actuarial valuations by applying the “projected unit credit method.” The fair value as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 was determined based on the EMSSAH-09 and EMSSAM-09 mortality tables and the application of certain assumptions including a discount rate, a salary increase and estimated personnel turnover and disability. Liabilities are recognized as other liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Actuarial gains and losses are recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).


108

The following table sets forth our pension obligation, funded status and accumulated pension obligation ($ in thousands):
 
 
As of December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
Change in pension obligation
 
 
 
 
Balance at beginning of period
 
$
4,456

 
$
3,556

Service cost
 
674

 
713

Interest cost
 
364

 
316

Actuarial gain
 
(187
)
 
(80
)
Effect of foreign exchange rates
 
(12
)
 
149

Curtailment
 
(17
)
 
(34
)
Benefits paid
 
(155
)
 
(164
)
Balance at end of period
 
$
5,123

 
$
4,456

Underfunded status
 
(5,123
)
 
(4,456
)
Accumulated pension obligation
 
$
(3,752
)
 
$
(3,092
)

There were no plan assets as of December 31, 2018 or 2017 as contributions are made only to the extent benefits are paid. The underfunded status of the plan is recorded in other liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

The following table presents the components of net periodic pension cost ($ in thousands):
 
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Service cost
 
$
674

 
$
713

 
$
674

Interest cost
 
364

 
316

 
247

Effect of foreign exchange rates
 
(12
)
 
149

 
(710
)
Amortization of prior service cost
 
25

 
77

 
2

Amortization of gain
 
(18
)
 
(29
)
 
(11
)
Compensation-non-retirement post-employment benefits
 
(34
)
 
(53
)
 
48

Settlement gain
 
—

 
(194
)
 
—

Curtailment gain
 
(17
)
 
(34
)
 
(5
)
Net periodic pension cost
 
$
982

 
$
945

 
$
245


The service cost component of net periodic pension cost is recorded within direct expense in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). All components of net periodic pension cost other than the service cost component are recorded within other income (expense) for all periods presented.

The weighted-average assumptions used to determine the pension obligation as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 and the net periodic pension cost for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 were as follows:
 
 
As of December 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Discount rate
 
9.55
%
 
7.75
%
 
7.90
%
Rate of compensation increase
 
4.79
%
 
4.79
%
 
4.79
%

The discount rate reflects the current rate at which our pension obligations could be effectively settled on the measurement date. The discount rate was determined by our actuary based on a yield curve constructed from a portfolio of zero-coupon government bonds for which the timing and amount of cash flows approximate the estimated benefit payments of the plan. The plan’s expected cash flows are then discounted using the applicable spot rate from the yield curve to determine a single effective discount rate.


109

The following table represents our expected plan payments for the next five years and thereafter ($ in thousands):
 
 
As of December 31, 2018
2019
 
$
646

2020
 
514

2021
 
523

2022
 
591

2023
 
671

Thereafter
 
4,433

Total
 
$
7,378

Note 18. Other balance sheet items
Trade and other receivables, net
The following summarizes the balances of trade and other receivables, net as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 ($ in thousands):
 
As of December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Gross trade and other receivables (1)
$
65,363

 
$
52,312

Allowance for doubtful accounts
(593
)
 
(785
)
Total trade and other receivables, net
$
64,770

 
$
51,527

________
(1) 
Includes $2.0 million in receivables related to property damage insurance claims as of December 31, 2018. There were no such receivables as of December 31, 2017.

Financial instruments that are subject to credit risk consist primarily of trade accounts receivable. Trade accounts receivable are generated from sales of services to customers in the United States, Canada, Europe, Latin America and Asia. Our policy is to mitigate this risk by granting a credit limit to each client depending on the client’s volume and credit quality. In order to increase the initially established credit limit, approval is required from the credit manager. Each hotel periodically reviews the age of the clients’ balances and the balances which may be of doubtful recoverability.
 
We do not require collateral or other security in support of accounts receivable. Allowances are provided for individual accounts receivable when we become aware of a customer’s inability to meet its financial obligations, such as in the case of bankruptcy, deterioration in the customer’s operating results, or change in financial position. If circumstances related to customers change, estimates of the recoverability of receivables would be further adjusted. We also consider broader factors in evaluating the sufficiency of our allowances for doubtful accounts, including the length of time receivables are past due, significant one-time events and historical experience.

The gross carrying amount of the trade and other receivables balance is reduced by an allowance for doubtful accounts that reflects our estimate of amounts that will not be collected. The allowance is based on historical loss experience, specific risks identified in collection matters, and analysis of past due balances identified in the aging detail. We have not experienced any significant write-offs to our accounts receivable.

The change in the allowance for doubtful accounts for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 is summarized in the following table ($ in thousands):
 
 Balance at January 1
 
Additions
 
Deductions
 
Balance at December 31
December 31, 2018
$
(785
)
 
$
(338
)
 
$
530

 
$
(593
)
December 31, 2017
$
(1,061
)
 
$
(295
)
 
$
571

 
$
(785
)
December 31, 2016
$
(1,017
)
 
$
(545
)
 
$
501

 
$
(1,061
)

110

Prepayments and other assets
The following summarizes the balances of prepayments and other assets as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 ($ in thousands):
 
As of December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Advances to suppliers
$
9,447

 
$
6,509

Prepaid income taxes
7,538

 
10,935

Prepaid other taxes (1)
10,240

 
10,737

Contract deposit (2)
2,700

 
2,700

Other assets
2,692

 
4,175

Total prepayments and other assets
$
32,617

 
$
35,056

________
(1) 
Includes recoverable value-added tax and general consumption tax accumulated by our Mexico and Jamaica entities, respectively.
(2) Represents a cash deposit related to the Sanctuary Cap Cana management contract. We are in the process of negotiating final terms for the purchase of a 30% interest, and the deposit will be used towards this purchase if we are able to agree on terms. If the purchase is not completed, this amount, together with an additional $0.8 million due, will be treated as key money.
Goodwill
The gross carrying values and accumulated impairment losses of goodwill by reportable segment (refer to discussion of our reportable segments in Note 19) as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 are as follows ($ in thousands):
 
Yucatán Peninsula
 
Pacific Coast
 
Dominican Republic
 
Jamaica
 
Total
Gross carrying value as of December 31, 2017
$
51,731

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
51,731

Accumulated impairment losses
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Net carrying value as of December 31, 2017
51,731

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
51,731

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Additions (see Note 4)
—

 
—

 
—

 
31,925

 
31,925

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gross carrying value as of December 31, 2018
51,731

 
—

 
—

 
31,925

 
83,656

Accumulated impairment losses
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Net carrying value as of December 31, 2018
$
51,731

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
31,925

 
$
83,656


111

Other intangible assets
Other intangible assets as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 consisted of the following ($ in thousands):
 
As of December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Gross carrying value:
 
 
 
Strategic alliance
$
—

 
$
3,616

Licenses (1)
858

 
981

Management contract (2)
1,900

 
—

Enterprise resource planning system (3)
2,246

 
—

Other
3,027

 
3,298

Total gross carrying value
8,031

 
7,895

Accumulated amortization:
 
 
 
Strategic alliance
—

 
(3,616
)
Management contract (2)
(48
)
 
—

Enterprise resource planning system (3)
(67
)
 
—

Other
(1,813
)
 
(2,192
)
Total accumulated amortization
(1,928
)
 
(5,808
)
Net carrying value:
 
 
 
Strategic alliance
—

 
—

Licenses (1)
858

 
981

Management contract (2)
1,852

 
—

Enterprise resource planning system (3)
2,179

 
—

Other
1,214

 
1,106

Total net carrying value
$
6,103

 
$
2,087

________
(1) Our licenses have indefinite lives. Accordingly, there is no associated amortization expense or accumulated amortization.
(2) Represents the fair value of a management contract acquired in the business combination with the Sagicor Parties (see Note 4).
(3) Represents software development costs incurred to develop and implement SAP as our integrated enterprise resource planning (“ERP”) system. $1.1 million of these costs were placed into service in 2018 and are being amortized over a weighted-average amortization period of 7 years.
Amortization expense on our intangible assets was $1.0 million, $0.9 million and $1.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Amortization expense relating to intangible assets with finite lives for the years ended December 31, 2019 to 2023 is expected to be as follows ($ in thousands):
 
As of December 31, 2018
2019
$
991

2020
703

2021
577

2022
543

2023
457

Thereafter
1,974

Total
$
5,245


112

Trade and other payables
The following summarizes the balances of trade and other payables as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 ($ in thousands):
 
As of December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Trade payables
$
24,452

 
$
18,160

Advance deposits
57,339

 
43,884

Withholding and other taxes payable
45,274

 
34,904

Interest payable
147

 
5,586

Payroll and related accruals
14,251

 
13,848

Accrued expenses and other payables
18,137

 
23,146

Total trade and other payables
$
159,600

 
$
139,528

Other liabilities
The following summarizes the balances of other liabilities as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 ($ in thousands):
 
As of December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Tax contingencies
$
—

 
$
2,310

Pension obligation
5,123

 
4,456

Cap Cana land purchase obligation
10,625

 
10,625

Unfavorable ground lease liability (1)
2,294

 
—

Key money (2)
1,994

 
—

Other
1,566

 
2,003

Total other liabilities
$
21,602

 
$
19,394

________
(1) 
Represents the amortized balance of the unfavorable ground lease intangible acquired in the business combination with the Sagicor Parties (see Note 4).
(2) 
Represents the amortized balance of key money received from Hilton in connection with the conversion of our Hilton La Romana and Hilton Playa del Carmen properties. The amortization is recorded as a reduction to franchise fees within direct expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). We received $2.0 million in December 2018.
Note 19. Segment information
We consider each one of our owned resorts to be an operating segment, none of which meets the threshold for a reportable segment. We also allocate resources and assess operating performance based on individual hotels. Our operating segments meet the aggregation criteria and thus, we report four separate segments by geography: (i) Yucatán Peninsula, (ii) Pacific Coast, (iii) Dominican Republic, and (iv) Jamaica. For the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, we have excluded the immaterial amounts of management fees, cost reimbursements and other from our segment reporting.
Our operating segments are components of the business which are managed discretely and for which discrete financial information is reviewed regularly by our Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer, all of whom represent our chief operating decision maker (“CODM”). Financial information for each reportable segment is reviewed by the CODM to assess performance and make decisions regarding the allocation of resources.
As a result of our business combination with the Sagicor Parties, we evaluated and modified the presentation of our reportable segments to reflect the management of our resorts after the incorporation of the Sagicor Assets. We divided our Caribbean Basin segment into separate Dominican Republic and Jamaica segments, which caused us to change from three to four reportable segments. The results for all comparative prior periods have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation.
The performance of our business is evaluated primarily on adjusted earnings before interest expense, income tax provision, and depreciation and amortization expense (“Adjusted EBITDA”), which should not be considered an alternative to net income (loss) or other measures of financial performance or liquidity derived in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The performance of our segments is evaluated on Adjusted EBITDA before corporate expenses and management fee income (“Owned Resort EBITDA”).

113

We define Adjusted EBITDA as net income (loss), determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP, for the period presented, before interest expense, income tax provision, and depreciation and amortization expense, further adjusted to exclude the following items: (a) other income (expense); (b) pre-opening expense; (c) share-based compensation; (d) non-service cost components of net periodic pension cost; (e) property damage insurance gain; (f) other tax expense; (g) transaction expense; (h) severance expense; (i) Jamaica delayed opening accrual reversal; (j) loss on extinguishment of debt; and (k) repairs from hurricanes and tropical storms.
There are limitations to using financial measures such as Adjusted EBITDA and Owned Resort EBITDA. For example, other companies in our industry may define Adjusted EBITDA differently than we do. As a result, it may be difficult to use Adjusted EBITDA or similarly named financial measures that other companies publish to compare the performance of those companies to our performance. Because of these limitations, Adjusted EBITDA should not be considered as a measure of the income or loss generated by our business or discretionary cash available for investment in our business and investors should carefully consider our U.S. GAAP results presented in our Consolidated Financial Statements.
The following table presents segment owned net revenue and a reconciliation to total revenue for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 ($ in thousands):
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Owned net revenue:
 
 
 
 
 
Yucatàn Peninsula
$
259,393

 
$
269,043

 
$
248,958

Pacific Coast
86,317

 
87,519

 
75,340

Dominican Republic
125,137

 
124,125

 
125,472

Jamaica
126,702

 
65,381

 
59,237

Segment owned net revenue (1)
597,549

 
546,068

 
509,007

Other
305

 
3

 
32

Management fees
755

 
140

 
—

Cost reimbursements
978

 
—

 
—

Compulsory tips
17,426

 
13,334

 
12,452

Total revenue
$
617,013

 
$
559,545

 
$
521,491

________
(1) Segment owned net revenue represents total revenue less compulsory tips paid to employees, cost reimbursements, management fees and other miscellaneous revenue not derived from segment operations.

114

The following table presents segment Owned Resort EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and a reconciliation to net income (loss) for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 ($ in thousands):

Year Ended December 31,

2018
 
2017
 
2016
Owned Resort EBITDA:
 
 
 
 
 
Yucatàn Peninsula
$
107,884

 
$
113,754

 
$
108,946

Pacific Coast
31,038

 
34,246

 
25,851

Dominican Republic
41,228

 
37,506

 
37,854

Jamaica
32,912

 
15,976

 
12,611

Segment Owned Resort EBITDA
213,062

 
201,482

 
185,262

Other corporate - unallocated
(34,786
)
 
(30,757
)
 
(30,593
)
Management fees
755

 
140

 
—

Total adjusted EBITDA
179,031

 
170,865

 
154,669

Add:
 
 
 
 
 
Interest expense
(62,243
)
 
(53,661
)
 
(54,793
)
Depreciation and amortization
(73,278
)
 
(53,131
)
 
(52,744
)
Other income (expense)
2,822

 
(1,078
)
 
(5,390
)
Pre-opening expense
(321
)
 
—

 
—

Share-based compensation
(6,116
)
 
(3,765
)
 
—

Non-service cost components of net periodic pension cost (benefit)
308

 
232

 
(429
)
Property damage insurance gain
2,212

 
—

 
348

Other tax expense
(1,633
)
 
(1,778
)
 
(675
)
Transaction expense
(9,615
)
 
(21,708
)
 
(16,538
)
Severance expense
(333
)
 
(442
)
 
—

Jamaica delayed opening accrual reversal
342

 
203

 
—

Loss on extinguishment of debt
—

 
(25,120
)
 
—

Repairs from hurricanes and tropical storms
—

 
(1,807
)
 
—

Net income before tax
31,176

 
8,810

 
24,448

Income tax provision
(12,199
)
 
(9,051
)
 
(4,232
)
Net income (loss)
$
18,977

 
$
(241
)
 
$
20,216

The following table presents segment property and equipment, gross and a reconciliation to total property and equipment, net as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 ($ in thousands):
 
As of December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Segment property and equipment, gross:
 
 
 
Yucatàn Peninsula
$
861,380

 
$
848,521

Pacific Coast
285,936

 
283,218

Dominican Republic
501,624

 
423,551

Jamaica
500,550

 
190,361

Total segment property and equipment, gross
2,149,490

 
1,745,651

Other corporate
9,189

 
4,076

Accumulated depreciation
(350,267
)
 
(283,401
)
Total property and equipment, net
$
1,808,412

 
$
1,466,326


115

The following table presents segment capital expenditures, which includes capital expenditures incurred but not yet paid, and a reconciliation to total capital expenditures for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 ($ in thousands):
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Segment capital expenditures:
 
 
 
 
 
Yucatàn Peninsula
$
16,684

 
$
25,438

 
$
7,657

Pacific Coast
3,181

 
4,484

 
3,170

Dominican Republic
79,543

 
73,618

 
5,148

Jamaica
6,262

 
12,691

 
3,435

Total segment capital expenditures
105,670

 
116,231

 
19,410

Other corporate
5,665

 
2,604

 
335

Total capital expenditures
$
111,335

 
$
118,835

 
$
19,745

Note 20. Quarterly financial information (unaudited)
The information for each historical period has been prepared on the same basis as the audited consolidated financial statements and, in our opinion, reflects all adjustments necessary to present fairly our financial results. Operating results for previous periods do not necessarily indicate results that may be achieved in any future period.

The following tables set forth the historical unaudited quarterly financial data for the periods indicated ($ in thousands, except share data):
 
For the three months ended
 
December 31, 2018
 
September 30, 2018
 
June 30, 2018
 
March 31, 2018
Total revenues
$
151,782

 
$
142,812

 
$
145,572

 
$
176,847

Operating income
13,788

 
2,984

 
18,719

 
55,106

Net (loss) income
(14,239
)
 
(5,422
)
 
16,821

 
21,817

Net (loss) income available to ordinary shareholders
$
(14,239
)
 
$
(5,422
)
 
$
16,821

 
$
21,817

(Losses) earnings per share - basic
$
(0.11
)
 
$
(0.04
)
 
$
0.14

 
$
0.20

(Losses) earnings per share - diluted
$
(0.11
)
 
$
(0.04
)
 
$
0.14

 
$
0.20

 
For the three months ended
 
December 31, 2017
 
September 30, 2017
 
June 30, 2017
 
March 31, 2017
Total revenues
$
126,538

 
$
118,342

 
$
140,598

 
$
174,067

Operating income
4,035

 
5,719

 
22,599

 
56,316

Net (loss) income
(11,683
)
 
(5,667
)
 
(10,530
)
 
27,639

Net (loss) income available to ordinary shareholders
$
(11,683
)
 
$
(5,667
)
 
$
(11,409
)
 
$
19,717

(Losses) earnings per share - basic
$
(0.11
)
 
$
(0.05
)
 
$
(0.11
)
 
$
0.21

(Losses) earnings per share - diluted
$
(0.11
)
 
$
(0.05
)
 
$
(0.11
)
 
$
0.21


116

Note 21. Subsequent events
For our Consolidated Financial Statements as of December 31, 2018, we evaluated subsequent events through February 28, 2019, which is the date the Consolidated Financial Statements were issued.
During the period from January 1, 2019 through February 22, 2019, the Company purchased 172,899 ordinary shares at an average price of $7.66 per share.

117

(b) Financial Statement Schedule
SCHEDULE I - CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF REGISTRANT
Playa Hotels & Resorts N.V.
(Parent Company)
Balance Sheet
($ in thousands)
 
As of December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
ASSETS
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
9,565

 
$
18,143

Intercompany receivables from subsidiaries
236

 
2,798

Prepayments and other assets
226

 
165

Investment in subsidiaries
831,542

 
589,611

Total assets
$
841,569

 
$
610,717

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
 
 
 
Trade and other payables
$
1,715

 
$
427

Intercompany payables to subsidiaries
13

 
9,157

Other liabilities
—

 
1,584

Total liabilities
1,728

 
11,168

Total shareholders’ equity
839,841

 
599,549

Total liabilities and shareholders' equity
$
841,569

 
$
610,717

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Condensed Financial Statements.


118


SCHEDULE I - CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF REGISTRANT
Playa Hotels & Resorts N.V.
(Parent Company)
Statement of Operations
($ in thousands)

 
For the Year Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Revenue
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
1,085

Selling, general and administrative expenses
(8,355
)
 
(4,988
)
 
(315
)
Operating (loss) income
(8,355
)
 
(4,988
)
 
770

Other income
1,382

 
77

 
12,016

Interest income
—

 
1

 
127

Interest expense
(197
)
 
(4,117
)
 
(1,597
)
Net (loss) income before equity in net income of subsidiaries
(7,170
)
 
(9,027
)
 
11,316

Equity in net income of subsidiaries
26,147

 
8,786

 
8,900

Net income (loss)
18,977

 
(241
)
 
20,216

Dividends of cumulative redeemable preferred shares
—

 
(7,922
)
 
(43,676
)
Non-cash dividend to warrant holders
—

 
(879
)
 
—

Net income (loss) available to ordinary shareholders
$
18,977

 
$
(9,042
)
 
$
(23,460
)
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Condensed Financial Statements.


119



SCHEDULE I - CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF REGISTRANT
Playa Hotels & Resorts N.V.
(Parent Company)
Statement of Cash Flows
($ in thousands)

 
For the Year Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
 
 
 
 
 
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities
$
(493
)
 
$
66,631

 
$
4,562

INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
 
 
 
 
 
Investment in subsidiaries
(7,000
)
 
(78,709
)
 
—

Return of investment in subsidiaries
6,784

 
—

 
—

Net cash used in investing activities
(216
)
 
(78,709
)
 
—

FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
 
 
 
 
 
Repayment of intercompany loans
(7,500
)
 
(49,447
)
 
(4,000
)
Repurchase of ordinary shares
(314
)
 
—

 
—

Repurchase of Earnout Warrants
(55
)
 
—

 
—

Redemption of cumulative redeemable preferred shares and payment of accrued dividends
—

 
—

 
(553
)
Recapitalization transaction
—

 
79,658

 
—

Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities
(7,869
)
 
30,211

 
(4,553
)
(DECREASE) INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
(8,578
)
 
18,133

 
9

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF THE PERIOD
$
18,143

 
$
10

 
$
1

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF THE PERIOD
$
9,565

 
$
18,143

 
$
10

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF NON-CASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES
 
 
 
 
 
Issuance of intercompany loans
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
49,447

Redemption of cumulative redeemable preferred shares and payment of accrued dividends
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
(49,447
)
Settlement of intercompany loan receivables
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
3,000

Settlement of intercompany loan payables
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
(3,641
)
Non-cash PIK Dividends
$
—

 
$
7,922

 
$
43,676

Purchase of cumulative redeemable preferred shares
$
—

 
$
(239,492
)
 
$
—

Settlement of accrued dividends of cumulative redeemable preferred shares
$
—

 
$
(114,381
)
 
$
—

Non-cash transfer of treasury shares
$
—

 
$
(80
)
 
$
—

Non-cash investment in subsidiaries
$
225,000

 
$
—

 
$
—

Non-cash return of investment in subsidiaries
$
(9,600
)
 
$
—

 
$
—

Par value of vested restricted share awards
$
22

 
$
17

 
$
—

Par value of ordinary shares issued in exchange for warrants
$
—

 
$
747

 
$
—

Non-cash dividend to warrant holders
$
—

 
$
879

 
$
—

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Condensed Financial Statements.


120


SCHEDULE I - CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF REGISTRANT
Playa Hotels & Resorts N.V.
(Parent Company)
Notes to Condensed Financial Statements

1. Background and basis of presentation
Playa Hotels & Resorts N.V. (“Playa” or the “Company”) was incorporated as a public limited liability company in the Netherlands concurrent with the Pace Business Combination (as defined in Note 4 of the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements included elsewhere in this filing). Playa became the parent company (holding) of the Company’s portfolio through its wholly-owned subsidiary Playa Resorts Holding B.V. When presenting parent company financial statements (our “Condensed Financial Statements”), the Company accounts for its investment in subsidiaries using the equity method of accounting.

Certain of the Company’s subsidiaries have material restrictions on their ability to pay dividends or make intercompany loans and advances pursuant to the Senior Secured Credit Facility (as defined in Note 14 of the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements included elsewhere in this filing). These Condensed Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with Rule 12-04, Schedule I of Regulation S-X, as the restricted net assets of Playa and its subsidiaries constitute more than 25% of the consolidated net assets of the Company and its subsidiaries. This information should be read in conjunction with the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements included elsewhere in this filing.
2. Commitments, contingencies and cumulative redeemable preferred shares
The legal entity has guaranteed liabilities of certain consolidated group companies, as meant in article 2:403 of the Netherlands Civil Code. The legal entity is therefore jointly and severally liable for the liabilities arising from the legal acts of those group companies. The Company and its subsidiaries are involved in certain litigation and claims, including claims and assessments with taxing authorities, which are incidental to the conduct of its business.
The Dutch corporate income tax act provides the option of a fiscal unity, which is a consolidated tax regime wherein the profits and losses of group companies can be offset against each other. Our Dutch companies file as a fiscal unity, with the exception of Playa Romana B.V., Playa Romana Mar B.V. and Playa Hotels & Resorts N.V. Playa Resorts Holding B.V. is the head of our Dutch fiscal unity and is jointly and severally liable for the tax liabilities of the fiscal unity as a whole.
During the third quarter of 2015, we identified and recorded a potential Dutch operating tax contingency resulting from allocations to be made of certain corporate expenses from 2014 and 2015. We provided all requested documentation to the Dutch tax authorities and, in the fourth quarter of 2018, they reached their final determination resulting in a gain of $1.2 million reported in other income for the year ended December 31, 2018. As of December 31, 2018, there was no operating tax contingency outstanding.
For a discussion of the cumulative redeemable preferred shares of the Company, see Note 12 of the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements included elsewhere in this filing.
3. Dividends from subsidiaries
The Company received $0 million, $75.1 million, and $1.1 million in cash dividends for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively, which are included within operating activities in the Condensed Statement of Cash Flows for all periods presented.

121

Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure.
None.
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures.
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
We maintain a set of disclosure controls and procedures (as that term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in reports that we file or submit under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in SEC rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures.
In accordance with Rule 13a-15(b) under the Exchange Act, as of the end of the period covered by this annual report, an evaluation was carried out under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based on that ongoing evaluation, and considering the continuing review of controls and procedures that is being conducted by our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, including the remedial actions and the material weakness in internal control over financial reporting disclosed below, our Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) were not effective as of December 31, 2018.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
There has been no change in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) during the Company's most recent fiscal year that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
As previously disclosed in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017, filed with the SEC on March 1, 2018 (“Form 10-K”), we have identified, and Deloitte & Touche, LLP, the independent registered public accounting firm that audited our Consolidated Financial Statements as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, and for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2017, included in our Form 10-K and the related Consolidated Financial Information of Registrant included in this annual report, has communicated, a material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting that existed as December 31, 2017. A “material weakness” is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement in our annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. We previously reported the following material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting that existed as of December 31, 2017, which has not been remediated as of December 31, 2018:
•
Our information technology controls, including system access, change management, and segregation of duties are not sufficiently designed and implemented to address certain information technology risks and, as a result, could expose our systems and data to unauthorized use or alteration (the “IT Weakness”).
We continue to take steps to remediate the identified IT Weakness. The Company has engaged a third party consulting firm to assist the Company with the implementation of SAP, which is a global information technology solution designed to address the elements which give rise to our material weakness. As of December 31, 2018, SAP was successfully implemented in our corporate entities and at one of our properties. We expect to implement SAP in our remaining operational entities, in phases, throughout 2019. However, effectiveness will need to be successfully tested over several quarters before we can conclude that the IT Weakness has been remediated. There can be no assurance that we will be successful in making these improvements and in remediating our current material weakness in a timely manner, or at all, and we may not prevent future material weaknesses from occurring.
Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting.     
Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act. Management conducted, under the supervision of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the framework in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on the assessment performed and existence of the IT Weakness, management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was not effective as of December 31, 2018.

122

Our assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as December 31, 2018 did not include the internal controls over the Sagicor Assets as permitted by the SEC guidelines that allow companies to exclude acquisitions from their assessment of internal controls over financial reporting in the year of acquisition. The Sagicor Assets contributed approximately 9.0% of our total revenue for the year ended December 31, 2018 and represented approximately 17.6% of our total assets as of December 31, 2018.
This Annual Report on Form 10-K does not include an attestation report of our registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. Management's report was not subject to attestation by the Company’s registered public accounting firm pursuant to rules of the SEC that permit the Company to provide only management’s report in this annual report.
Item 9B. Other Information.
None.

123

PART III
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance.
The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the Company's Proxy Statement for the 2019 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders to be filed with the SEC within 120 days of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018.
Item 11. Executive Compensation.
The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the Company's Proxy Statement for the 2019 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders to be filed with the SEC within 120 days of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018.
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters.
The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the Company's Proxy Statement for the 2019 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders to be filed with the SEC within 120 days of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018.
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence.
The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the Company's Proxy Statement for the 2019 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders to be filed with the SEC within 120 days of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018.
Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services.
The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the Company's Proxy Statement for the 2019 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders to be filed with the SEC within 120 days of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018.

124

PART IV
Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules.
(1)
Financial Statements
The following financial statements are included under a separate caption “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report on the Form 10-K and are incorporated herein by reference:







(2)
Financial Statement Schedules
All other financial statement schedules are omitted either because they are not required or are not applicable, or because the required information is included in the financial statements or notes thereto.

(3)
Exhibits
The following exhibits are filed or furnished, as the case may be, as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K:
Exhibit
Number
Exhibit Description
2.1
 
 
2.2
 
 
3.1
 
 
3.2
 
 
3.3
 
 
10.1
 
 
10.2
 
 
10.3
 
 
10.4
 
 

125

Exhibit
Number
Exhibit Description
10.5
 
 
10.6
 
 
10.7
 
 
10.8
 
 
10.9
 
 
10.10
 
 
10.11
 
 
10.12
 
 
10.13
 
 
10.14
 
 
10.15
 
 
10.16*
 
 
10.17
 
 
10.18
 
 
10.19
 
 
10.20*
 
 
10.21*
 
 
10.22*
 
 
10.23*

126

Exhibit
Number
Exhibit Description
 
 
10.24*
 
 
10.25*
 
 
10.26
 
 
10.27*
 
 
10.28*
 
 
10.29
 
 
10.30
 
 
10.31
 
 
10.32*
 
 
10.33
 
 
10.34
 
 
10.35
 
 
10.36
 
 
10.37
 
 
10.38*
 
 
10.39*
 
 
10.40*
 
 
10.41*
 
 
10.42*
 
 
21.1
 
 

127

Exhibit
Number
Exhibit Description
23.1
 
 
31.1
 
 
31.2
 
 
32.1
 
 
32.2
 
 
101
 
 
*
Management contracts and compensatory plans and arrangements required to be filed as exhibits pursuant to Item 15(b) of Form 10-K.
Item 16. Form 10-K Summary.
Not applicable.

128

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 
 
Playa Hotels & Resorts N.V.
 
 
 
 
Date:
February 28, 2019
By:  
/s/ Bruce D. Wardinski
 
 
 
Bruce D. Wardinski
 
 
 
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
Signatures
 
Title
 
Date
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Bruce D. Wardinski
 
 
 
 
Bruce D. Wardinski
 
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer)
 
February 28, 2019
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Ryan Hymel
 
 
 
 
Ryan Hymel
 
Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)
 
February 28, 2019
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Brandon B. Buhler
 
 
 
 
Brandon B. Buhler
 
Chief Accounting Officer (Principal Accounting Officer)
 
February 28, 2019
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Daniel J. Hirsch
 
 
 
 
Daniel J. Hirsch
 
Director
 
February 28, 2019
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Charles Floyd
 
 
 
 
Charles Floyd
 
Director
 
February 28, 2019
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Richard B. Fried
 
 
 
 
Richard B. Fried
 
Director
 
February 28, 2019
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Gloria Guevara
 
 
 
 
Gloria Guevara
 
Director
 
February 28, 2019
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Hal Stanley Jones
 
 
 
 
Hal Stanley Jones
 
Director
 
February 28, 2019
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Thomas Klein
 
 
 
 
Thomas Klein
 
Director
 
February 28, 2019
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Elizabeth Lieberman
 
 
 
 
Elizabeth Lieberman
 
Director
 
February 28, 2019
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Karl Peterson
 
 
 
 
Karl Peterson
 
Director
 
February 28, 2019
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Arturo Sarukhan
 
 
 
 
Arturo Sarukhan
 
Director
 
February 28, 2019
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Richard O. Byles
 
 
 
 
Richard O. Byles
 
Director
 
February 28, 2019
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Christopher W. Zacca
 
 
 
 
Christopher W. Zacca
 
Director
 
February 28, 2019
 
 
 
 
 



129