The Association of Gaming Equipment Manufacturers announced that the AGEM Index of member stocks increased by 121.27 points to 979.70 points in May 2021, a significant 14.1 percent gain over April 2021. Nearly all AGEM Index companies reported increases in their stock prices, with 12 posting positive contributions and only one recording a negative contribution to the Index.
Not only was it the seventh consecutive month that the AGEM Index trended positively, but May’s total was its highest ever recorded. Additionally, the index was up 213.5 percent from the March 2020 low point at the outset of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Index’s May growth was due in large part to a 10.4 percent increase in the stock price of Aristocrat Leisure Limited, which rose from $37.17 to $41.05 and was responsible for adding 36.92 points. Another substantial contribution was from International Game Technology, whose 40.9 percent stock price growth from $17.22 to $24.26 added 34.46 points.
The AGEM Index beat the major stock indices significantly. The Dow Jones Industrial Average and the S&P 500 grew by 1.9 percent and 0.5 percent, respectively, while the NASDAQ posted a 1.5 percent decline.
In a separate release, the association announced that the annual AGEM/AGA Golf Classic Presented by JCM Global will take place on September 28 at Cascata in Boulder City, Nevada.
After a year off the course, attendees and sponsors will return to the golf tournament, which also features contests and a wide selection of raffle prizes. Benefiting the research effort of the International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG), this industry event has raised more than $2.2 million thanks to the generosity of sponsors and players.
The Golf Classic attracts players and sponsors from across the gaming industry spectrum. Major sponsors include AGEM, the American Gaming Association and JCM Global. GGB Magazine is returning as media sponsor.
“The AGEM/AGA Golf Classic presented by JCM Global is a vital part of the ICRG’s funding base,” said ICRG Executive Director Russell Sanna. “These generous contributions will bring us one step closer to finding effective prevention and treatment for gambling addiction.
“Last year taught us many lessons about resiliency and tenacity and highlighted the ongoing need for responsible-gaming research and initiatives,” said AGEM Executive Director Marcus Prater. “The Golf Classic brings attention and fundraising to the ICRG and their important work.”
