RIO HOTEL & CASINO INC
S-3/A, 1997-11-10
MISCELLANEOUS AMUSEMENT & RECREATION
Previous: ACXIOM CORP, 10-Q, 1997-11-10
Next: TIME WARNER COMPANIES INC, S-3/A, 1997-11-10



<PAGE>
 
     
  AS FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION ON NOVEMBER 10, 1997.
                                                   
                                                REGISTRATION NO. 333-39279     
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                      SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                            WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
 
                               ----------------
                         
                      PRE-EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT NO. 1     
                                       
                                    TO     
 
                                   FORM S-3
 
                            REGISTRATION STATEMENT
                                     UNDER
                          THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
 
                               ----------------
 
                           RIO HOTEL & CASINO, INC.
            (EXACT NAME OF REGISTRANT AS SPECIFIED IN ITS CHARTER)
 
                               ----------------
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                            <C>
                   NEVADA                                        95-3671082
<CAPTION>
       (STATE OR OTHER JURISDICTION OF                        (I.R.S. EMPLOYER
       INCORPORATION OR ORGANIZATION)                        IDENTIFICATION NO.)
</TABLE>
 
       3700 WEST FLAMINGO ROAD, LAS VEGAS, NEVADA 89103, (702) 252-7733
         (ADDRESS, INCLUDING ZIP CODE, AND TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING
            AREA CODE, OF REGISTRANT'S PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICES)
 
                             JAMES A. BARRETT, JR.
                                   PRESIDENT
                            3700 WEST FLAMINGO ROAD
                            LAS VEGAS, NEVADA 89103
                                (702) 252-7733
           (NAME, ADDRESS, INCLUDING ZIP CODE, AND TELEPHONE NUMBER,
                  INCLUDING AREA CODE, OF AGENTS FOR SERVICE)
 
                                   COPY TO:
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                            <C>
              MICHAEL J. BONNER                              ALLAN G. SPERLING
              SHERWOOD N. COOK                                 DAVID C. LOPEZ
             DAVID A. BARKSDALE                      CLEARY, GOTTLIEB, STEEN & HAMILTON
      KUMMER KAEMPFER BONNER & RENSHAW                       ONE LIBERTY PLAZA
    3800 HOWARD HUGHES PARKWAY, 7TH FLOOR                 NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10006
           LAS VEGAS, NEVADA 89109                             (212) 225-2000
               (702) 792-7000
</TABLE>
 
  APPROXIMATE DATE OF PROPOSED SALE TO THE PUBLIC: As soon as practicable
after this Registration Statement becomes effective.
       
                               ----------------
 
  THE REGISTRANT HEREBY AMENDS THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON SUCH DATE OR
DATES AS MAY BE NECESSARY TO DELAY ITS EFFECTIVE DATE UNTIL THE REGISTRANT
SHALL FILE A FURTHER AMENDMENT WHICH SPECIFICALLY STATES THAT THIS
REGISTRATION STATEMENT SHALL THEREAFTER BECOME EFFECTIVE IN ACCORDANCE WITH
SECTION 8(A) OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 OR UNTIL THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT
SHALL BECOME EFFECTIVE ON SUCH DATE AS THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION,
ACTING PURSUANT TO SAID SECTION 8(A), MAY DETERMINE.
 
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
 
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
+INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS SUBJECT TO COMPLETION OR AMENDMENT. A         +
+REGISTRATION STATEMENT RELATING TO THESE SECURITIES HAS BEEN FILED WITH THE   +
+SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION. THESE SECURITIES MAY NOT BE SOLD NOR MAY  +
+OFFERS TO BUY BE ACCEPTED PRIOR TO THE TIME THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT        +
+BECOMES EFFECTIVE. THIS PROSPECTUS SHALL NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL OR   +
+THE SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY NOR SHALL THERE BE ANY SALE OF THESE      +
+SECURITIES IN ANY STATE IN WHICH SUCH OFFER, SOLICITATION OR SALE WOULD BE    +
+UNLAWFUL PRIOR TO REGISTRATION OR QUALIFICATION UNDER THE SECURITIES LAWS OF  +
+ANY SUCH STATE.                                                               +
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
                             SUBJECT TO COMPLETION
                                
                             NOVEMBER 10, 1997     
PROSPECTUS
 
3,000,000 SHARES
 
RIO HOTEL & CASINO, INC.                [LOGO OF RIO HOTEL & CASINO, INC.]
 
COMMON STOCK
($0.01 PAR VALUE)
   
All of the 3,000,000 shares (the "Shares") of common stock, $0.01 par value per
share (the "Common Stock"), are being offered and sold by Rio Hotel & Casino,
Inc. (the "Company"). The Common Stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange
("NYSE") under the symbol "RHC." On November 5, 1997, the last reported sale
price of the Common Stock as reported on the New York Stock Exchange Composite
Tape was $21.3125 per share. See "Price Range of Common Stock."     
 
SEE "RISK FACTORS" ON PAGE 8 FOR A DISCUSSION OF CERTAIN FACTORS THAT SHOULD BE
CONSIDERED BY PROSPECTIVE PURCHASERS OF THE COMMON STOCK OFFERED HEREBY.
 
THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES AND
EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION NOR HAS THE SECURITIES
AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION PASSED UPON THE
ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS
A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
 
NEITHER THE NEVADA GAMING COMMISSION NOR THE NEVADA STATE GAMING CONTROL BOARD
OR ANY OTHER GAMING AUTHORITY HAS PASSED UPON THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS
PROSPECTUS OR THE INVESTMENT MERITS OF THE COMMON STOCK OFFERED HEREBY. ANY
REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS UNLAWFUL.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                 PRICE
                                                 TO     UNDERWRITING PROCEEDS TO
                                                 PUBLIC DISCOUNT     COMPANY(1)
<S>                                              <C>    <C>          <C>
Per Share....................................... $         $           $
Total(2)........................................ $         $           $
</TABLE>    
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
          
(1) Before deducting offering expenses payable by the Company estimated to be
    $450,000.     
   
(2) The Company has granted to the Underwriters a 30-day option to purchase up
    to 450,000 shares of Common Stock at the Price to Public, less the
    Underwriting Discount, solely to cover over-allotments, if any. If the
    Underwriters exercise such option in full, the total Price to Public,
    Underwriting Discount and Proceeds to Company will be $       , $       ,
    and $       , respectively. See "Underwriting."     
   
The shares of Common Stock are offered subject to receipt and acceptance by the
Underwriters, to prior sale and to the Underwriters' right to reject any order
in whole or in part and to withdraw, cancel or modify the offer without notice.
It is expected that delivery of the shares will be made at the office of
Salomon Brothers Inc, Seven World Trade Center, New York, New York, or through
the facilities of The Depository Trust Company, on or about         , 1997.
    
SALOMON BROTHERS INC                                        MERRILL LYNCH & CO.
                                                          
NATIONSBANC MONTGOMERY SECURITIES, INC.                   SMITH BARNEY INC.     
 
The date of this Prospectus is        , 1997.
<PAGE>
 
  CERTAIN PERSONS PARTICIPATING IN THE OFFERING MADE HEREBY MAY ENGAGE IN
TRANSACTIONS THAT STABILIZE, MAINTAIN OR OTHERWISE AFFECT THE PRICE OF THE
COMMON STOCK, INCLUDING PURCHASES OF THE COMMON STOCK TO STABILIZE ITS MARKET
PRICE, PURCHASES OF THE COMMON STOCK TO COVER SOME OR ALL OF A SHORT POSITION
IN THE COMMON STOCK MAINTAINED BY THE UNDERWRITERS AND THE IMPOSITION OF
PENALTY BIDS. FOR A DESCRIPTION OF THESE ACTIVITIES, SEE "UNDERWRITING."
 
                             AVAILABLE INFORMATION
   
  The Company is subject to the informational requirements of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act") and in accordance therewith files
reports, proxy and information statements and other information with the
Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission"). Such reports, proxy and
information statements and other information filed by the Company may be
inspected and copied at the public reference facilities of the Commission,
Room 1024, Judiciary Plaza, 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549, as
well as at the following Regional Offices of the Commission: Seven World Trade
Center, 13th Floor, New York, New York 10048 and 500 West Madison Street,
Suite 1400, Chicago, Illinois 60601. Copies of such material may be obtained
by mail at prescribed rates. Requests should be directed to the Commission at
Judiciary Plaza, 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549. In addition,
the Commission maintains a web site that contains such reports, proxy
statements and other information filed by the Company. The Commission web site
address is (http://www.sec.gov). Material filed by the Company can also be
inspected at the offices of the New York Stock Exchange, 20 Broad Street, New
York, New York 10005.     
 
  The Company has filed with the Commission a Registration Statement on Form
S-3 under the Securities Act of 1933 (the "Securities Act"), of which this
Prospectus constitutes a part, with respect to the Shares offered hereby. The
Registration Statement, including exhibits and schedules thereto, may be
obtained from the Commission's principal office at Judiciary Plaza, 450 Fifth
Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549, upon payment of the fees prescribed by
the Commission. Statements contained in this Prospectus as to the contents of
any document referred to are not necessarily complete and in each instance
reference is made to the copy of the appropriate document filed as an exhibit
to, or incorporated by reference into, the Registration Statement, each
statement being qualified in all respects by such reference.
 
                    INCORPORATION OF DOCUMENTS BY REFERENCE
 
  The following documents, which have been filed by the Company with the
Commission are hereby incorporated by reference into this Prospectus:
 
    (i)   The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended
  December 31, 1996;
 
    (ii)  The Company's Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarters
  ended March 31, 1997, June 30, 1997 and September 30, 1997; and
 
    (iii) The Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 4, 1997.
 
  All documents filed by the Company after the date of this Prospectus
pursuant to Sections 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act and prior
to the termination of the offering hereunder shall be deemed to be
incorporated by reference into this Prospectus and to be a part hereof from
the date of filing of such documents. Any statement contained in a document
incorporated or deemed to be incorporated by reference herein shall be deemed
to be modified or superseded for purposes of this Prospectus to the extent
that a statement contained herein or in any other subsequently filed document
 
                                       2
<PAGE>
 
which also is or is deemed to be incorporated by reference herein modifies or
supersedes such statement. Any such statement so modified or superseded shall
not be deemed, except as so modified or superseded, to constitute a part of
this Prospectus.
 
  The Company will provide without charge to each person to whom a copy of
this Prospectus is delivered, upon the written or oral request of any such
person, a copy of any or all of the documents incorporated herein by
reference, other than exhibits to such documents (unless such exhibits are
specifically incorporated by reference in such documents). Written requests
for such copies should be directed to James A. Barrett, Jr., Rio Hotel &
Casino, Inc., at the Company's principal executive offices located at 3700
West Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, Nevada 89103. Telephone requests may be
directed to Mr. Barrett at (702) 252-7733.
 
                                       3
<PAGE>
 
                               PROSPECTUS SUMMARY
 
  The following summary is qualified in its entirety by, and should be read in
conjunction with, the documents incorporated herein by reference. Unless
indicated otherwise or the context otherwise requires (i) references in this
Prospectus to the "Company" refer to Rio Hotel & Casino, Inc., a Nevada
corporation, and its subsidiaries, and (ii) references to the "Offering" refer
to the Shares being offered hereby. Unless otherwise indicated, all information
in this Prospectus assumes no exercise of the Underwriters' over-allotment
option. This Prospectus contains forward-looking statements that involve risks
and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those discussed
in the forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors, including
those set forth under "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in this Prospectus.
 
                                  THE COMPANY
 
  Rio Hotel & Casino, Inc. owns and operates an all-suite hotel-casino, the Rio
Suite Hotel & Casino (the "Rio") in Las Vegas, Nevada. This property utilizes a
colorful Brazilian Carnivale theme and currently features 2,582 suites, 116,000
square feet of casino space, 14 restaurants, approximately 2,500 slot machines,
109 table games and other related amenities, including the Rio Secco Golf Club.
The Rio is situated on an elevated site near the Las Vegas Strip and adjacent
to a major exit from Interstate 15, the freeway linking Las Vegas with Southern
California. The Company markets to the middle to upper income segments of
gaming customers, including both local residents and Las Vegas visitors. The
Rio's all-suite concept, diverse high quality dining and easy access provide an
attractive alternative to the Las Vegas Strip and a fun and comfortable
environment in which to enjoy gaming, dining and entertainment.
 
  In June 1997, the Company completed a $200 million expansion, exclusive of
construction period interest and preopening costs (the "Phase V Expansion"),
centered around the Masquerade Village. The Masquerade Village contains
approximately 120,000 square feet of public space with a Carnivale and Mardi
Gras themed casino expansion, featuring Masquerade Show in the Sky, an
interactive $25 million indoor attraction, a variety of new restaurants and
fine specialty retail shops. The Phase V Expansion added a curved 41-story
hotel tower containing 1,031 suites and 27,000 square feet of additional casino
space.
 
  In the third quarter of 1997, the Company also acquired a golf course located
in the master planned community of Seven Hills in Henderson, Nevada, and
intends to use the course to provide a golf school operated by Butch Harmon and
golf vacation packages to its guests, in addition to providing play on the
course primarily to its local and tourist customers.
 
  The Company's business strategy focuses on attracting and fostering repeat
business from customers in the middle to upper income segments of the local
resident and tourist markets. To implement its business strategy, the Company
capitalizes on its all-suite concept, strategic location and fun-filled
Carnivale and Mardi Gras theme. The Company strives to provide a quality,
affordable gaming and entertainment experience in order to generate high
customer satisfaction and loyalty. The Rio's location at Interstate 15 and
Flamingo Road helps to attract both of its target market segments. The Rio's
value-priced suites provide an attractive alternative to conventional Las Vegas
rooms for visitors who desire to avoid the crowds and congestion of the Las
Vegas Strip. Rio's suites offer approximately 50% more space than other
comparably priced Las Vegas hotel rooms. As a means to capitalize on the high-
quality amenities that the Rio offers, management has increased its marketing
efforts to premium players. Management believes that it must offer consistent
quality, a comfortable and fun atmosphere and, most importantly, friendly
service at affordable prices to provide a high value experience to its
customers.
 
                                       4
<PAGE>
 
   
  The high quality of the Company's facilities and service is reflected by the
large number of awards the Rio has received. In the 1997-1998 Zagat Hotel and
Restaurant Survey, the Rio received awards for "Best Rooms," "Best Service,"
"Best Food" and "Best Overall Hotel" in Las Vegas. In addition, the Rio was
selected by the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences to be the first and
only recipient of the Five Star Diamond Award for 1997 in Las Vegas. The
American Academy of Hospitality Sciences has bestowed fewer than 100 hotels and
resorts internationally with this award. Furthermore, the Casino Player 1997
"Best of Gaming" readers' poll voted the Rio best in 12 categories, including
"Best Overall Hotel & Casino."     
 
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS
 
  New Rio Master Plan. The Company has assembled 43 acres immediately adjacent
to the Rio (seven of which are subject to an option to purchase), bringing the
total acreage at the Rio to 83 acres. In October 1997, the Company announced a
master plan (the "New Rio Master Plan") for continued development of the
existing Rio site and the adjacent 43 acre site. The New Rio Master Plan is
expected to be implemented in phases, the first of which has been commenced and
includes an entertainment/meeting/special event/convention center, a complex of
nine "Palazzo" suites designed for the premium market, a restaurant serving
authentic Chinese food, a valet parking structure, a retail shopping area, an
expanded outdoor entertainment area with an additional swimming pool,
additional exhibition space in the Masquerade Village, an expansion of the
Shutters premium gaming lounge, creation of a concierge suite level in both of
the Rio's existing towers, and an expansion of the Rio's spa, and a new road
that connects the Rio and the Las Vegas Strip by extending Twain Avenue to
Industrial Road.
 
  This first phase is anticipated to be completed in stages through 1998 and
early 1999 at an estimated cost of $200 million. Subsequent phases of the New
Rio Master Plan are currently at the conceptual stage. These phases currently
include a separate hotel of up to 3,000 rooms, up to nine additional luxury
villas and two additional parking structures. The timetable, theme and cost of
the subsequent phases have not yet been established, and there can be no
assurance that the New Rio Master Plan will be implemented successfully, if at
all. See "Risk Factors--Construction and Development Risks."
   
  Amended and Restated Rio Bank Loan. The Company currently has a $200 million
senior secured reducing revolving credit facility (the "Rio Bank Loan") that
matures June 30, 2001 with a syndicate of banks led by Bank of America National
Trust and Savings Association ("Bank of America NT&SA"). As of September 30,
1997, $130.0 million was available for borrowing under the Rio Bank Loan.
Proceeds from the Rio Bank Loan may be used for general corporate purposes. The
Rio Bank Loan is secured by a first deed of trust on substantially all of the
real property owned by Rio Properties, Inc., the Company's principal operating
subsidiary ("Rio Properties"), and other real and personal property, and is
guaranteed by the Company, which guarantee is secured by a pledge of the
capital stock of Rio Properties. The Company is currently engaged in
discussions with Bank of America NT&SA to amend and restate the Rio Bank Loan
(the "Amended and Restated Rio Bank Loan") to provide for a $275 million credit
facility that will mature December 31, 2003. The Amended and Restated Rio Bank
Loan will provide for greater borrowing capacity, subject to compliance with
certain financial tests, and improved pricing. There can be no assurances that
the Company will be able to modify the Rio Bank Loan.     
 
                                       5
<PAGE>
 
 
                                  THE OFFERING
   
Common Stock Offered...       3,000,000 shares     
   
Common Stock Outstanding      
 after the Offering....       24,412,841 shares(1)    
   
Use of Proceeds........       The Company will use the net proceeds of the
                              Offering to reduce amounts outstanding under the
                              Rio Bank Loan ($70.0 million as of September 30,
                              1997). See "Use of Proceeds."     
   
New York Stock Exchange       
Symbol.................       "RHC"     
 
- --------
   
(1) Based upon the shares outstanding as of September 30, 1997. Does not
    include shares reserved for future issuance upon the exercise of currently
    outstanding options ("Options"), of which options for 1,407,155 shares are
    currently exercisable.     
 
                                       6
<PAGE>
 
                      SUMMARY CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA
 
  The following table summarizes certain selected consolidated financial data,
which should be read in connection with the Company's Consolidated Financial
Statements and the Notes thereto included elsewhere herein and with
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations." The summary consolidated financial data as of and for the years
ended December 31, 1993 and 1992 and as of December 31, 1994 have been derived
from the Company's audited financial statements. The summary consolidated
financial data as of and for the years ended December 31, 1996 and 1995 and for
the year ended December 31, 1994 have been derived from the Company's audited
financial statements included elsewhere herein. The summary consolidated
financial data presented below as of and for the nine months ended September
30, 1997 and 1996 are derived from the Company's unaudited consolidated
financial statements included elsewhere herein. The unaudited consolidated
financial statements include all adjustments (consisting of only normal
recurring adjustments) which the Company considers necessary for a fair
presentation of the Company's financial position and results of operations for
these periods. Operating results for the nine months ended September 30, 1997
are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for future
periods.
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                         NINE MONTHS ENDED
                           SEPTEMBER 30,                 YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                         --------------------  -----------------------------------------------
                           1997        1996      1996      1995      1994      1993     1992
                         --------    --------  --------  --------  --------  --------  -------
                            (UNAUDITED)                   (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                      <C>         <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>
STATEMENTS OF INCOME
 DATA:
Net revenues............ $270,693    $163,087  $219,581  $192,958  $146,424  $110,053  $82,633
Operating profit........   38,046      30,649    37,994    37,558    25,928    20,304   12,454
Interest expense........  (19,199)     (7,112)   (8,215)   (8,106)   (1,923)   (1,839)  (3,801)
Net income..............   11,968(1)   15,068    19,366    18,745    15,966    10,649    6,308
Net income per share.... $   0.55(1) $   0.70  $   0.90  $   0.87  $   0.74  $   0.55  $  0.41
Weighted average number
 of common shares
 outstanding (000s)(2)..   21,575      21,549    21,534    21,593    21,720    19,538   15,319
OTHER DATA:(3)
EBITDA(4)............... $ 67,924    $ 43,187  $ 55,614  $ 51,790  $ 36,792  $ 27,848  $18,268
Average daily suite
 rate(5)................ $  88.84    $  73.82  $  76.93  $  72.18  $  63.80  $  62.60  $ 64.09
Average daily hotel
 occupancy..............     90.0%       95.8%     94.5%     94.5%     95.9%     96.8%    96.5%
Hotel suites............    2,582       1,551     1,998     1,551       861       861      424
Casino square footage...  116,000      89,000    89,000    89,000    89,000    79,000   54,000
Slot machines...........    2,442       1,880     1,884     2,098     2,200     1,950    1,450
Table games.............      102          76        79        73        53        44       31
Restaurant seats........    4,152       2,540     2,540     2,540     2,440     1,843    1,209
</TABLE>    
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                          SEPTEMBER 30, 1997
                                                      --------------------------
                                                                    PRO FORMA
                                                        ACTUAL    AS ADJUSTED(6)
                                                      ----------- --------------
                                                      (UNAUDITED)
<S>                                                   <C>         <C>
BALANCE SHEET DATA:
Cash and cash equivalents............................  $ 13,763      $ 13,763
Total assets.........................................   558,789       558,789
Long-term debt, including current maturities.........   305,279       244,829
Stockholders' equity.................................   196,144       256,594
</TABLE>    
- -------
   
(1) Includes pretax, preopening expenses of $11.2 million ($7.1 million after
    tax). Before this expense, net income and net income per share would have
    been $19.1 million and $0.88, respectively.     
   
(2) Includes Common Stock equivalents related to options currently outstanding
    under the Company's Non-Statutory Stock Option Plan (the "NSOP"), the
    Company's 1991 Directors' Stock Option Plan (the "Directors' Plan") and the
    Company's 1995 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the "Incentive Plan").     
   
(3) Other data relating to hotel suites, casino square footage and restaurant
    seats represent amounts as of the end of the period. Data related to slot
    machines and table games represent averages for the period.     
   
(4) For purposes of the financial information contained in this Prospectus,
    EBITDA consists of operating profit (loss) plus depreciation and
    amortization, including amortization of preopening costs associated with
    the Phase V Expansion. EBITDA should not be construed as an alternative to
    operating profit (as determined in accordance with generally accepted
    accounting principles) as an indicator of the Company's operating
    performance, or as an alternative to cash flow from operating activities
    (as determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles)
    as a measure of liquidity. This line item enables comparison of the
    Company's performance with the performance of other companies that report
    EBITDA.     
   
(5) Average daily suite rate figures are actual rates expressed in dollars.
           
(6) Pro forma as adjusted amounts give pro forma effect to this Offering and
    the application of the net proceeds therefrom. See "Use of Proceeds" and
    "Capitalization."     
 
                                       7
<PAGE>
 
                                 RISK FACTORS
 
  Except for historical information contained in this Prospectus, the matters
discussed herein contain forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe
harbor provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E
of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, such as plans for future expansion,
capital spending and financing sources. Such forward-looking statements are
inherently uncertain, and investors must recognize that actual results may
differ from management's expectations. Key factors affecting current and
future operations of the Company include the factors discussed below.
 
  Prospective investors should consider carefully the following factors in
addition to the other information contained in this Prospectus before making
an investment in the Shares.
 
MANAGEMENT OF GROWTH; DEPENDENCE ON KEY PERSONNEL
   
  The future expansion of the Rio, the development of additional future gaming
properties within Las Vegas and other potential gaming jurisdictions, may
involve unforeseen difficulties and may require disproportionate amounts of
time and attention by the Company's management to its various business
activities as well as the unexpected allocation of financial and other
resources of the Company. Many management duties within the Company are
presently the responsibility of a relatively small number of executives. To
manage the Company's future growth, the Company will be required, among other
things, to hire and train new personnel, continuously evaluate and change, if
necessary, its existing management structure and control its operating
expenses.     
 
  The loss of the services of certain key individuals could have a material
adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition or results of
operations. Competition for new personnel in Las Vegas is intense and there
can be no assurance that in the future the Company will be able to attract and
retain qualified personnel.
 
CONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT RISKS
 
  Construction projects, such as those contemplated under the New Rio Master
Plan, entail significant risks, including management's ability to control and
manage such projects effectively, shortages of materials or skilled labor,
unforeseen engineering, environmental or geological problems, work stoppages,
weather interference, floods and unanticipated cost increases. No assurance
can be given that the budgeted costs of the Company's current and future
projects will not be exceeded or that any such projects will commence
operations within the contemplated schedules, if at all. In addition, the
scope of the licenses, permits and authorizations required to construct and
open a new facility or expand an existing facility are extensive, and the
failure to obtain such licenses, permits and authorizations could prevent or
delay the completion of construction or opening of all or part of such
facilities, affect the design of features of the project or increase
completion costs.
   
  Any development of new facilities will require the Company to make a
substantial capital investment and, depending on timing, may require
additional debt or equity financing. The New Rio Master Plan is likely to
require significant additional debt or equity financing. There can be no
assurance that the cash flow generated by the operations of the Company or any
other new venture will be sufficient to service any additional debt which may
be incurred in connection therewith. There can be no assurance that additional
financing can be obtained on terms acceptable to the Company or otherwise.
Further, there can be no assurance that any expansion projects will add
proportionately to the Company's results of operations. See "Summary--Recent
Developments" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations--Liquidity and Capital Resources."     
 
                                       8
<PAGE>
 
COMPETITION
   
  Intense competition exists in the gaming industry, and many of the Company's
competitors have significantly greater resources than the Company. The Rio
faces competition from all other casinos and hotels in the Las Vegas area,
including competitors located on the Las Vegas Strip, the Boulder Strip and in
downtown Las Vegas. Such competition is primarily targeted toward local
residents and repeat visitors. The Company also faces competition from non-
hotel gaming facilities targeted toward local residents. In recent months,
several of the Company's direct competitors have opened new hotel-casinos or
have commenced or completed major expansion projects, and other hotel-casinos
and expansions are planned. In the past two years, three large hotel-casinos
have opened on or near the Las Vegas Strip. In addition, nine new hotel-casinos
and two hotel-casino expansions are under development, which, if built, will
add approximately 21,500 rooms to the Las Vegas area before the year 2000.
Major expansions or enhancements of existing properties or the construction of
new properties by competitors could have a material adverse effect on the
Company's business, financial condition and results of operations.     
 
  To a lesser extent, the Rio competes with hotel-casinos located in the
Laughlin and Reno-Lake Tahoe areas of Nevada and in Atlantic City, New Jersey.
The Company also competes with state-sponsored lotteries, on and off track
wagering, card parlors, riverboat and Native American gaming ventures and other
forms of legalized gaming in the United States, as well as with gaming on
cruise ships and international gaming operations. In addition, certain states
have recently legalized, and several other states are currently considering
legalizing, casino gaming in specific geographical areas within those states.
The development of casinos, lotteries and other forms of gaming in other
states, particularly areas close to Nevada, such as California, could adversely
affect the Company's business, financial condition and results of operations.
 
  For a more comprehensive discussion of competitive factors affecting the
Company's operations, see "Business--Competition."
 
LEVERAGE AND DEBT SERVICE
 
  The Company has significant interest expense and principal repayment
obligations under the Company's indebtedness. To the extent that borrowings are
drawn under the Rio Bank Loan, Rio Properties, the Company's principal
operating subsidiary, will have significant interest expense and principal
repayment obligations thereunder, which obligations are guaranteed by the
Company. Moreover, the Company currently has outstanding $100 million in
aggregate principal amount of 10 5/8% Senior Subordinated Notes (the "10 5/8%
Notes") and $125 million in aggregate principal amount of 9 1/2% Senior
Subordinated Notes (the "9 1/2% Notes" and collectively with the 10 5/8% Notes,
the "Notes"). As of September 30, 1997, the Company's consolidated total
indebtedness was $305.3 million. See "Use of Proceeds." The Company is
dependent upon distributions from Rio Properties to meet substantially all of
its interest expense and principal repayment obligations under its
indebtedness. Substantially all of the operations of the Company are conducted
through Rio Properties.
 
  The Rio Bank Loan includes covenants significantly restricting the amount of
funds which may be advanced by Rio Properties to the Company and the amount of
principal or interest that may be repaid by Rio Properties to the Company on
any intercompany loans, and includes a covenant requiring the Company to
maintain a certain consolidated tangible net worth which effectively limits the
amount of funds which may be distributed by Rio Properties to the Company in
the form of dividends. The Rio Bank Loan also contains numerous financial and
operating covenants, including requirements that Rio Properties and the
Company, on a consolidated basis, satisfy certain financial ratios and maintain
certain specified levels of net worth, as well as limitations on the incurrence
of additional indebtedness. Additionally, if Rio Properties does not satisfy
certain financial ratios and covenants under the Rio Bank
 
                                       9
<PAGE>
 
   
Loan, it will have available to it only a portion of the entire $200 million
in the absence of a written waiver from the lenders. On a pro forma basis
giving effect to this Offering, as of September 30, 1997, Rio Properties would
have had $9.5 million outstanding under the Rio Bank Loan. The Company is
currently engaged in discussions with Bank of America NT&SA to provide for the
Amended and Restated Bank Loan. The Amended and Restated Bank Loan will
provide for greater borrowing capacity, subject to compliance with certain
financial tests, and lower pricing. There can be no assurance that the Company
will be able to modify the Rio Bank Loan or, if it were able to do so, that
the Company will receive more favorable terms thereunder. The Indentures for
the Notes (collectively, "Indentures") also contain certain covenants,
including a limitation on the incurrence of additional indebtedness; however,
the Indentures permit the Company to incur certain financing indebtedness
under the Rio Bank Loan and certain other indebtedness without satisfying the
coverage ratio contained in such covenants. See "Management's Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations--Liquidity and
Capital Resources."     
 
  The ability of the Company to meet its debt service requirements and the
ability of Rio Properties and the Company to comply with covenants under the
Rio Bank Loan and the Indentures will be dependent upon future performance,
which is subject to financial, economic, competitive, regulatory and other
factors affecting the Company and its subsidiaries, many of which are beyond
their control. While the Company expects that its operating cash flow will be
sufficient to cover its expenses, including interest costs, there can be no
assurance with respect thereto. If the Company is unable to generate
sufficient cash flow, it could be required to adopt one or more alternatives,
such as reducing or delaying planned expansions or capital expenditures,
selling or leasing assets, restructuring debt or obtaining additional equity
capital. There can be no assurance that any of these alternatives could be
effected on satisfactory terms, and dependence on alternative sources of funds
could impair the Company's competitive position and reduce its future cash
flow. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations."
 
RELIANCE ON CERTAIN MARKETS
 
  The Rio draws a substantial number of customers from throughout the United
States, particularly California. Adverse economic conditions could have a
material adverse effect on the Company's operating results. In addition, an
increase in fuel costs or transportation prices, a decrease in airplane
traffic, a worsening of interstate highway congestion from California, or a
deterioration of relations with tour and travel agents, as they affect travel
to Las Vegas and the Company's facilities, could materially adversely affect
the Company's business, financial condition and results of operations.
 
  In addition, a significant component of the Rio's customers are Las Vegas
residents. Although management believes that the population and economic
strength of Las Vegas will continue to grow, there can be no assurance with
respect thereto. See "Business--Las Vegas Market."
 
CONTROL BY EXISTING STOCKHOLDERS, CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED
TRANSACTIONS
 
  Officers and directors of the Company will beneficially own or control
approximately 19.2% of the outstanding Common Stock (excluding shares issuable
upon the exercise of outstanding options), including 19.0% owned by Anthony A.
Marnell II, Chairman of the Board of Directors, after giving effect to this
Offering. Such individuals, if acting together, would be able to effectively
elect the entire Board of Directors as well as approve most matters submitted
to the stockholders for approval. See "Security Ownership of Certain
Beneficial Owners and Management."
 
  Anthony A. Marnell II, Chtd. ("Marnell Chartered"), an architectural firm,
and Marnell Corrao Associates, Inc. ("Marnell Corrao"), a construction
company, each of which is controlled by Mr. Marnell, have provided and
continue to provide all project design and construction services for the
Company. Potential conflicts of interest between the Company and Marnell
Chartered or Marnell
 
                                      10
<PAGE>
 
   
Corrao could arise (for example, if a request for a change order is presented
affecting a construction contract price). To address such issues, the
Company's Board of Directors utilizes an Audit Committee, consisting of two
non-employee directors that, among other things, reviews and reports to the
full Board of Directors on certain issues that involve potential conflicts of
interest. The Company and five members of the Board of Directors are parties
to a lawsuit challenging the validity of certain contracts entered into
between the Company, and Marnell Chartered and Marnell Corrao. See "Business--
Legal Proceedings."     
   
  Mr. Marnell and James A. Barrett, Jr., President of the Company, are each
officers of Marnell Corrao. Mr. Marnell is an officer of Marnell Chartered. In
these capacities, Messrs. Marnell and Barrett each devote substantial time and
attention to the affairs of these enterprises. Messrs. Marnell and Barrett are
also involved in other businesses and investments.     
 
NEVADA GAMING REGULATIONS
 
  The Nevada State Gaming Control Board and the Nevada Commission and other
local, county and state regulatory agencies may, in compliance with certain
statutory and regulatory procedures, limit, condition, suspend or revoke a
license or approval to own the stock of the Company for any cause deemed
reasonable by such licensing agency. Substantial fines for violations of
gaming laws or regulations may be levied against the Company and persons
involved. In addition, the Company could be subject to fines for each
violation of the gaming laws. Furthermore, a supervisor could be appointed by
a state court at the request of the Nevada Commission to operate any
nonrestricted gaming establishment operated by the Company if the licenses
held by the Company are revoked, suspended or otherwise lapse. In such
extraordinary circumstances, earnings generated by gaming operations during a
supervisor's appointment (except for reasonable rental value) could be
forfeited to the State of Nevada. Suspension or revocation of any of the
licenses or the appointment of a supervisor by the Nevada Commission would
have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition
or results of operations. See "Business--Regulation and Licensing."
 
REGULATORY DISPOSITION
 
  The Nevada Commission may, in its discretion, require the holder of any
security of a corporation registered under the Nevada Gaming Control Act and
the Rules and Regulations promulgated thereunder (collectively the "Nevada
Act"), such as the Shares, to file applications, be investigated and be found
suitable to own the security of a registered corporation. If a beneficial
holder of Shares is required by the Nevada Commission to be found suitable,
the holder shall apply for a finding of suitability within 30 days after the
Nevada Commission request. The applicant for a finding of suitability must pay
all costs of such investigation. If the Nevada Commission determines that a
person is unsuitable to own such security, then, pursuant to the regulations
of the Nevada Commission, the registered corporation can be sanctioned,
including by the loss of its approvals, if, without the prior approval of the
Nevada Commission, it (i) pays to the unsuitable person any dividend, interest
or any distribution whatsoever, (ii) recognizes any voting rights by such
unsuitable person in connection with such securities, (iii) pays the
unsuitable person remuneration in any form or (iv) makes any payment to the
unsuitable person by way of principal, redemption, conversion, exchange,
liquidation or similar transaction. Further, if the holder or beneficial owner
is required to be found suitable and is not found suitable by the Nevada
Commission, (i) the holder shall, upon request of the Company, dispose of such
holder's Shares within 30 days or within the time prescribed by the Nevada
Commission, whichever is earlier, or (ii) the Company may, at its option,
redeem the holder's Shares at the lesser of (y) the Current Market Price or
(z) the price at which the Shares were acquired by the holder, without, in any
case, accrued and unpaid interest to the date of the finding of unsuitability
by the Nevada Commission, unless payment of such interest is permitted by the
Nevada Commission. See "Business--Regulation and Licensing."
 
                                      11
<PAGE>
 
UNCERTAIN EFFECT OF NATIONAL GAMBLING IMPACT AND POLICY COMMISSION
 
  The U.S. Congress has created the National Gambling Impact and Policy
Commission to conduct a comprehensive study of all matters relating to the
economic and social impact of gaming in the United States. The enabling
legislation provides that, not later than two years after enactment of the
enabling legislation, the commission would be required to issue a report
containing its findings and conclusions, together with recommendations for
legislation and administrative actions. Any such recommendations, if enacted
into law, could adversely impact the gaming industry and have a material
adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition or results of
operations.
 
  From time to time, certain legislators have proposed the imposition of a
federal tax on gross gaming revenues. No specific proposals for the imposition
of such a federal tax are currently pending. However, no assurance can be given
that such a tax will not be imposed in the future. Any such tax could have a
material adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition or
results of operations.
 
ENVIRONMENTAL RISKS AND REGULATION
 
  As is the case with any owner or operator of real property, the Company is
subject to a variety of federal, state and local governmental regulations
relating to the use, storage, discharge, emission and disposal of hazardous
materials. Failure to comply with environmental laws could result in the
imposition of severe penalties or restrictions on operations by government
agencies or courts of law which could adversely affect operations. The Company
does not have environmental liability insurance to cover such events.
 
  The Company has in the past engaged in real estate development projects and
has owned several parcels of real estate. While the Company is unaware of any
significant environmental hazard on properties it owns or has owned, in the
event of any discovery of such hazard, severe penalties, including the costs of
remediation, could be sought against the Company.
 
VOLATILITY OF STOCK PRICE
 
  The trading price of the Common Stock could be subject to wide fluctuations
in response to periodic variations in operating results and other events or
factors, including the success of the Company's development activities,
legislation approving, defeating or restricting gaming, other governmental
actions, developments in the gaming industry generally and announcements by the
Company or by competitors. In addition, the stock market, and the gaming
industry in particular, have experienced extreme price and volume fluctuations
in a manner which has often been unrelated to the operating performance of such
companies. These broad market fluctuations may adversely affect the market
price of the Common Stock. A shift away from investor interest in gaming in
general could adversely affect the trading price of the Common Stock in a
manner unrelated to the Company's operating performance.
 
                                       12
<PAGE>
 
                                USE OF PROCEEDS
   
  The net proceeds to the Company from the sale of the 3,000,000 shares of
Common Stock offered by the Company hereby at an assumed public offering price
of $21.3125 per share are estimated to be approximately $60,450,469
(approximately $69,585,539 if the Underwriters' over-allotment option is
exercised in full), after deducting the underwriting discount and estimated
offering expenses payable by the Company. The Company will initially use the
net proceeds to reduce amounts outstanding under the Rio Bank Loan. At such
times as funds are thereafter needed by the Company, the Company will draw
funds then available under the Rio Bank Loan. The interest rate on the Rio
Bank Loan is a variable rate equal to either the Eurodollar Rate (as defined
in the Rio Bank Loan) or the Base Rate (as defined in the Rio Bank Loan), at
the election of the Company, plus a variable margin (based upon the Company's
leverage ratio) over the Eurodollar Rate or the Base Rate, as applicable. The
maturity date of the Rio Bank Loan is June 30, 2001. As of September 30, 1997,
the unpaid principal of the Rio Bank Loan was $70.0 million. See "Management's
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations--
Liquidity and Capital Resources."     
 
                                DIVIDEND POLICY
 
  The Company has never declared or paid any dividends on its Common Stock,
and the Board of Directors intends to retain all earnings, if any, for use in
the Company's business for the foreseeable future. In addition, the Company's
long-term debt instruments contain various restrictions on the payment of cash
dividends.
 
                          PRICE RANGE OF COMMON STOCK
 
  The Company's Common Stock began trading on the New York Stock Exchange (the
"NYSE") under the symbol "RHC" on January 11, 1996. Prior to this date, the
Company's Common Stock was traded on the Nasdaq National Market under the
symbol "RIOH." The following table sets forth the high and low closing sale
prices of the Company's Common Stock, as reported by the NYSE and the Nasdaq
National Market, during the periods indicated.
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                                 HIGH     LOW
                                                                ------- --------
     <S>                                                        <C>     <C>
     1995
       First Quarter........................................... $14.00  $11.25
       Second Quarter..........................................  16.625  13.25
       Third Quarter...........................................  14.75   12.50
       Fourth Quarter..........................................  13.625  11.625
     1996
       First Quarter........................................... $15.25  $11.625
       Second Quarter..........................................  18.75   15.00
       Third Quarter...........................................  17.625  13.375
       Fourth Quarter..........................................  14.00   13.875
     1997
       First Quarter........................................... $17.25  $14.00
       Second Quarter..........................................  15.625  13.625
       Third Quarter...........................................  22.25   14.5625
       Fourth Quarter (through November 5, 1997)...............  24.50   20.50
</TABLE>    
   
  The last reported sale price of the Common Stock on the NYSE on November 5,
1997 was $21.3125 per share. There were approximately 1,341 holders of record
of the Company's Common Stock as of November 5, 1997.     
 
                                      13
<PAGE>
 
                          CONSOLIDATED CAPITALIZATION
 
  The following table sets forth the cash position and capitalization of the
Company at September 30, 1997 and as adjusted to give pro forma effect to this
Offering and the application of the net proceeds therefrom. This table should
be read in conjunction with the more detailed information and financial
statements appearing elsewhere in this Prospectus.
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                         SEPTEMBER 30, 1997
                                                       -----------------------
                                                                  PRO FORMA
                                                        ACTUAL  AS ADJUSTED(1)
                                                       -------- --------------
                                                           (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                    <C>      <C>
Cash and cash equivalents............................. $ 13,763    $ 13,763
                                                       ========    ========
Current maturities of long-term debt.................. $  1,266    $  1,266
                                                       --------    --------
Long-term debt:
  Rio Bank Loan.......................................   70,000       9,550
  10 5/8% Notes.......................................  100,000     100,000
  9 1/2% Notes, net of discount.......................  121,788     121,788
  Other long-term debt................................   12,225      12,225
                                                       --------    --------
    Total long-term debt..............................  304,013     243,563
                                                       --------    --------
    Total debt........................................  305,279     244,829
                                                       --------    --------
Stockholders' equity:
Common stock; par value $.01 per share, 100,000,000
 shares authorized, 21,412,841 shares outstanding,
 24,412,841 shares outstanding
 pro forma............................................      214         244
Additional paid-in-capital............................  115,439     175,859
Retained earnings.....................................   80,491      80,491
                                                       --------    --------
    Total stockholders' equity........................  196,144     256,594
                                                       --------    --------
    Total capitalization.............................. $501,423    $501,423
                                                       ========    ========
</TABLE>    
- --------
   
(1) Assumes $20.1502 per share net to the Company after underwriting discount
    and offering expenses, and 3,000,000 shares issued. Total net proceeds to
    the Company assumed to be $60,450,469.     
 
                                      14
<PAGE>
 
                    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
STATEMENT ON FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
 
  Certain information included herein contains statements that may be
considered forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the
Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,
such as statements relating to plans for future expansion, capital spending
and financing sources. Such forward-looking information involves important
risks and uncertainties that could significantly affect anticipated results in
the future and, accordingly, such results may differ from those expressed in
any forward-looking statements made herein. These risks and uncertainties
include, but are not limited to, those relating to construction activities,
dependence on existing management, gaming regulations (including actions
affecting licensing), leverage and debt service (including sensitivity to
fluctuations in interest rates), domestic or global economic conditions and
changes in federal or state tax laws or the administration of such laws.
 
OVERVIEW
 
  During the first six months of 1997, the Phase V Expansion project was
phased into operation, which consisted of the opening of (i) the Masquerade
Village on February 7, 1997, including five new restaurants, 21 retail shops,
approximately 30,000 square feet of gaming area, the Masquerade Show in the
Sky, an entertainment event featuring parade floats with live entertainers
suspended from the Masquerade Village's ceiling; and the addition of
approximately 1,000 new suites, 447 of which became available as of December
31, 1996 with the additional new suites becoming available in mid-March 1997;
and (ii) in mid-May 1997, the uppermost floors of the 41-story Masquerade
Tower including 31 new suites and the VooDoo Lounge and Cafe on the 40th and
41st floors which offer panoramic views of the Las Vegas valley.
 
  In addition, during the third quarter of 1997, the Company consummated the
purchase of the Seven Hills Golf Course located approximately 15 minutes south
of the Rio. The facility has been renamed the Rio Secco Golf Club. The Company
intends to use the course to provide a golf school and golf vacation packages
to its guests, and provide play on the course primarily to the Rio's local and
tourist customers. The golf course opened for play in October 1997, and the
clubhouse is scheduled to open in the spring of 1998.
   
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS     
 
 Nine Months Ended September 30, 1997 and 1996
 
  The Company's net revenues increased to $270.7 million for the nine months
ended September 30, 1997 from $163.1 million in the nine months ended
September 30, 1996, an increase of $107.6 million or 66%. Casino revenues
increased $58.1 million, or 70%, to $141.2 million for the nine months ended
September 30, 1997, compared to $83.1 million in the nine months ended
September 30, 1996. With the opening of the Masquerade Village casino area on
February 7, 1997, the average number of slot machines and table games
available increased from 1,880 and 76, respectively, in the nine months ended
September 30, 1996, to 2,442 and 102, respectively, in the nine months ended
September 30, 1997. Table game revenues were $74.1 million for the nine months
ended September 30, 1997, an increase of $43.7 million, or 144%, from the
$30.4 million in the nine months ended September 30, 1996. When comparing the
nine months ended September 30, 1997 and the nine months ended September 30,
1996, the table game hold percentages were 19% and 16%, respectively, and
table game handle increased to $381.9 million, or 100%, from $190.8 million.
Management believes that the increase in table game handle was primarily due
to the increased number of table games available and the increased foot
traffic associated with the Phase V Expansion, and an increased emphasis by
management on marketing to customers with higher credit limits and
 
                                      15
<PAGE>
 
average wagers. Slot machine revenues were $62.2 million in the nine months
ended September 30, 1997, an increase of $13.9 million, or 29%, from $48.3
million in the nine months ended September 30, 1996. Management believes that
the increase in the average number of slot machines available and the increase
in customer traffic associated with the Phase V Expansion were the primary
reasons for the increase in slot machine revenues. Other casino revenues,
consisting of the race and sports books, keno and poker, increased 11% to $4.9
million in the nine months ended September 30, 1997 compared to $4.4 million
in the nine months ended September 30, 1996, primarily due to the increased
foot traffic associated with the opening of the Phase V Expansion.
 
  Room revenues increased by $20.3 million, or 67%, to $50.4 million for the
nine months ended September 30, 1997 from $30.1 million in the same period in
the prior year. Management believes that the primary reasons for the increase
in room revenues were the additional availability of the new suites in the new
41-story tower and an increase in the average room rate from $74 in the first
nine months of 1996 to $89 in the current year's nine month period. The
occupancy rate was 90% during the nine months ended September 30, 1997,
compared to 96% for the same period in the prior year, with 202,075 more rooms
being available and occupied in the 1997 nine month period.
 
  Food and beverage revenues increased $30.0 million, or 57%, to $83.0 million
in the nine months ended September 30, 1997 compared to $53.0 million in the
first nine months of 1996. Management believes that the opening of the
Masquerade Village, including the initial five new restaurants and bars on
February 7, 1997, the opening of the VooDoo Restaurant and Lounge on May 24,
1997 and increased customer traffic generated through the additional rooms and
expanded casino and entertainment areas were the primary reasons for the
increase. An increase in the average food check also contributed to the
increase in food and beverage revenues.
 
  Other revenues increased by $7.3 million, or 64%, to $18.7 million in the
first nine months of 1997, from $11.4 million in the prior year period. The
primary reasons for this increase were an increase in showroom admissions,
gift shop and other retail sales, increased telephone revenues due to the
increase in rooms occupied, and shop rental received from the retail outlets
leased to third parties in the Masquerade Village.
 
  Before preopening expense, operating profit as a percentage of net revenue
was 18% and 19% for the nine months ended September 30, 1997 and 1996,
respectively. The one-time preopening costs, which consisted primarily of
direct incremental personnel costs and advertising and marketing expenses
associated with the opening of the Phase V Expansion on February 7, 1997,
totaled approximately $11.2 million. The casino operating margin was 47% in
the nine months ended September 30, 1997 compared to 52% in the same period in
the prior year. Payroll and other volume related expenses, increased casino
marketing and promotional costs and an increase in reserves associated with
the potential uncollectibility of casino receivables of $11.8 million for the
nine months ended September 30, 1997 compared to $0.1 million in the same
period in the prior year, are the primary contributors to the decrease in the
casino operating profit margin. For the nine months ended September 30, 1997
and 1996, hotel operating profits were 70% and 67%, respectively, food and
beverage operating profits were 23% in each of the periods, and other
operating department profit margins were 40% and 49%, respectively. The
decrease in the operating profit margin for other departments is primarily due
to the increase in retail sales and the correspondingly higher costs of sales,
payroll and other expenses associated with retail sales and expenses
associated with the operation of the Masquerade Show in the Sky which opened
on February 7, 1997. Selling, general and administrative expenses were 14% of
net revenues in each of the nine month periods.
 
  Promotional allowances, which represent the retail value of rooms, food,
beverage and other services provided to customers without charge, were 8% and
9% of total revenues for the nine month periods ended September 30, 1997 and
1996, respectively. The decrease in promotional allowances as a percentage of
total revenues is primarily due to the increase in total revenues.
 
                                      16
<PAGE>
 
  Depreciation and amortization increased by $6.2 million, or 49%, to $18.7
million in the first nine months of 1997 compared to $12.5 million in the
prior year period. This increase is primarily attributable to depreciation and
amortization expense associated with the opening of the Phase V Expansion.
 
  Interest expense increased by $12.1 million, or 170%, to $19.2 million for
the nine months ended September 30, 1997, from $7.1 million in the same period
in 1996. This increase was primarily due to the issuance on February 11, 1997
of the Existing 9 1/2% Notes.
 
  Net income for the nine month period ended September 30, 1997, after
deducting $11.2 million ($7.1 million net after taxes) of preopening costs
associated with the opening of the Phase V Expansion, was $12.0 million.
Adjusted on a pro forma basis for the one-time after-tax charge of
$7.1 million for preopening costs, net income for the first nine months ended
September 30, 1997 would have been $19.1 million, compared to net income for
the nine months ended September 30, 1996 of $15.1 million.
 
 Years Ended December 31, 1996 and 1995
 
  Net revenues for the Company increased to $219.6 million in 1996 from $193.0
million in 1995, an increase of $26.6 million or 14%. Casino revenues
increased $6.9 million, or 7%, to $112.4 million in 1996 from $105.5 million
in the prior year. An increase in table game revenues of $6.4 million, or 18%,
to $42.5 million in the current year from $36.1 million in 1995 was the
primary component of the increase. Slot machine revenues were $64.2 million in
1996, an increase of $1.2 million, or 2%, from 1995 revenues of $63.0 million.
Race and sports book revenues were $0.2 million and $0.3 million lower,
respectively, in 1996 than in 1995, primarily due to a lower hold percentage
in the sports book and a decrease in total wagers in the race book which was
negatively impacted by a pricing dispute concerning the live televising of
races from California race tracks. Management believes that the increase in
table game revenues was attributable to an increase in the number of available
and occupied rooms and an average of 14 more table games being available in
1996 compared to 1995. In 1996, management believes that slot machine revenues
were negatively impacted by a 12% decrease in the average number of slot
machines available when compared to 1995 as a result of temporary space
limitations due to the Phase V Expansion and casino remodeling projects.
 
  Room revenues increased by $7.5 million, or 22%, to $41.3 million in 1996
from $33.8 million in 1995, primarily due to 365, 184 and 141 new hotel suites
being placed into service in February 1995, March 1995 and December 1995,
respectively. Hotel occupancy percentage was 95% in both years, with 567,332
available room nights in 1996 compared to 494,105 available room nights in the
prior year. The average room rate increased to $76.93 in 1996 from $72.18 in
1995.
 
  Food and beverage revenues increased to $70.8 million in 1996 from $60.0
million in 1995, an increase of $10.8 million or 18%. Higher average food
checks and increased beverage sales contributed to this increase.
 
  Other revenues increased by $3.0 million, or 24%, to $15.4 million in 1996
compared to $12.4 million in 1995. Increased telephone revenues from the
additional hotel suites, as well as increased merchandise sales, salon
revenues and admissions to entertainment activities, were the primary reasons
for the increase in other revenues.
 
  Operating profit as a percentage of net revenue was 17% and 20% in 1996 and
1995, respectively. Casino operating profit was 50% in 1996 compared to 55% in
1995. Management believes that the decline in the casino operating margin was
due to (i) the change in the ratio between table game revenues, which
traditionally have a lower operating margin, and slot machine revenues and
(ii) the incurrence of preopening marketing and personnel costs associated
with the
 
                                      17
<PAGE>
 
September 1996 opening of the Rio's new Shutters gaming area and the
Masquerade Village that opened on February 7, 1997. Food and beverage
operating profit was 22% and 20% for the years ended December 31, 1996 and
1995, respectively. Management believes that this improvement was the result
of effective cost controls, a higher average food check, and the increase in
the ratio of beverage sales to food sales when comparing the two years. Hotel
operating profit was 68% in 1996 and 69% in 1995. Other operating expenses
were 49% and 54% of other departmental revenues for the years ended December
31, 1996 and 1995, respectively, primarily due to increases in telephone and
admissions revenues which do not require significant incremental expense.
Selling, general and administrative expenses were 14% of net revenues in both
years.
 
  Promotional allowances, which represent the retail value of rooms, food,
beverage and other products and services provided to customers without charge,
were $20.4 million in 1996 and $18.8 million in 1995. The estimated cost of
providing such promotional allowances was $11.4 million and $11.1 million in
1996 and 1995, respectively.
 
  Depreciation and amortization increased $3.4 million, or 24%, to $17.6
million in 1996 compared to $14.2 million in 1995. This increase is
attributable to (i) new suites being placed into service during the period
from February 1995 through December 1995, and (ii) expanded public and back-
of-the-house areas being placed into service during 1995 and 1996. This
includes approximately $7.3 million in construction projects placed into
service in 1996 which are associated with the Phase V Expansion project.
   
  Interest expense increased $0.1 million in 1996 to $8.2 million from $8.1
million in 1995. Interest expense in 1996 was reduced by $8.7 million due to
the capitalization of interest on amounts expended on the Phase V Expansion
project. The $200.0 million Phase V Expansion includes approximately 1,000 new
hotel suites, 477 of which opened in late December 1996, and approximately
120,000 of additional casino space, restaurants, retail, and interactive
entertainment space, which opened on February 7, 1997. The remainder of the
new hotel suites and the VooDoo Lounge and Cafe on the 41st floor of the new
tower opened during the second quarter of 1997.     
   
  Net income was $19.4 million or $0.90 per share (fully diluted) compared to
$0.87 per share (fully diluted) in 1995. As a percentage of pre-tax income,
federal income taxes decreased from 36.4% in 1995 to 35.0% in 1996, primarily
due to a change in accounting for employee meals which were provided at no
cost to employees. Prior to the change in accounting for these meals, with
this change having been adopted by a majority of Nevada's hotel-casinos, the
Internal Revenue Service has alleged that such meals are subject to the 50%
meals and entertainment disallowance.     
 
 Years Ended December 31, 1995 and 1994
 
  Net revenues for the Company increased to $193.0 million for 1995 from
$146.4 for 1994, an increase of $46.6 million or 32%. Casino revenues
increased to $105.5 million for 1995 from $87.2 million for 1994, an increase
of $18.3 million or 21%. The increase in casino revenues was due primarily to
an increase in slot machine revenues of $8.5 million or 16% to $63.0 million
for 1995 from $54.5 million for 1994 and an increase in table games revenues
of $10.3 million or 40% to $36.1 million for 1995 from $25.8 million for 1994,
resulting from the additional slot machines and table games discussed above,
as well as an increase in the per unit win of both slots and table games.
 
  Room revenues increased by $14.5 million or 76% to $33.8 million for 1995
from $19.3 million for 1994. The increase in room revenue resulted primarily
from the addition of 365 new hotel suites placed into service in February
1995, 184 new hotel suites placed into service in March 1995, and 141 new
hotel suites placed into service in December 1995. The additional 690 suites
placed into service in 1995 increased the Rio's total to 1,551 suites compared
to 861 suites for 1994. Demand for the Rio's suites remained high during 1995
with a 95% average daily occupancy compared to a 96% average
 
                                      18
<PAGE>
 
daily occupancy during 1994. The average number of suites available during
1995 was 1,354 compared to 861 during 1994. The average daily room rate during
1995 was $72.18 compared to $63.80 during 1994.
 
  Food and beverage revenues increased to $60.0 million for 1995 from $47.6
million for 1994, an increase of $12.4 million or 26%. The successful opening
in February 1994 of the Copacabana Showroom, a 430-seat video, entertainment
and restaurant complex; the successful opening in April 1994 of Fiore, a 186-
seat fine dining restaurant; the successful opening in June 1994 of Club Rio,
a late-night dance club; the successful completion in November 1994 of a 50%
expansion of the Carnival World Buffet to 980 seats; and increased beverage
sales as a result of increased gaming customers all contributed to the
increase in food and beverage revenues.
 
  Other revenues for 1995 were $12.4 million, which included entertainment
admission revenues of $4.1 million, retail sales of $4.1 million, interest
income of $0.4 million and miscellaneous other operating revenues, primarily
telephone revenues, of $3.8 million. This represented an increase in other
revenues of $5.2 million, or 72%, compared to the $7.2 million in other
revenues generated during 1994. The increase in other revenues resulted
primarily from increased entertainment admission revenues, retail sales and
telephone revenues resulting from increased business levels.
 
  Operating profit for the Company increased to $37.6 million for 1995 from
$25.9 million for 1994, an increase of $11.7 million or 45%. Management
believes that the improvement in operating results was due to the additional
365 new hotel suites placed into service in February 1995, the additional 184
new hotel suites placed into service in March 1995, the additional 141 new
hotel suites placed into service in December 1995, an average monthly increase
from 1994 levels of approximately 174 slot machines and 19 table games,
additional restaurant capacity and improved operating efficiencies in the
hotel department.
 
  The Company's operating margins were relatively consistent during 1995
compared to 1994. Operating profit as a percentage of net revenues was 19%
during 1995 compared to 18% during 1994. Casino operating profit was
relatively constant at 55% during 1995 compared to 56% during 1994. Food and
beverage operating profit remained relatively constant at 20% during 1995
compared to 19% during 1994. Hotel operating profit increased to 69% during
1995 compared to 66% during 1994 due to efficiencies resulting from increased
customer volume, effective cost controls and a higher average room rate during
1995 compared to 1994. Selling, general and administrative expenses were 14%
of net revenues in both 1995 and 1994.
 
  During 1995, promotional allowances were $18.8 million, or 9% of gross
revenues, which represented the retail value of rooms, food, beverage and
other services provided to customers without charge. The estimated cost of
providing such promotional allowances was $11.1 million. This compares to 1994
when promotional allowances were $14.9 million, or 9% of gross revenues, and
the estimated cost of providing such promotional allowances was $9.1 million.
 
  Depreciation and amortization increased by $3.3 million or 31% to $14.2
million for 1995 compared to $10.9 million for 1994. This increase is
attributable to depreciation expense from various completed expansion projects
such as the Company's Eastside Expansion and the Phase III Expansion.
 
  Other expenses of the Company increased primarily because of higher interest
expense. Borrowing levels increased in 1995 compared to 1994 due to funding
costs of the various expansion projects. Also, in July 1995, in anticipation
of the funding requirements for the Phase V Expansion, the Company issued
$100.0 million of the 10 5/8% Notes. The fixed coupon rate of 10 5/8% was
higher than the floating rate that the Company was paying under the Rio Bank
Loan. Consequently, the issuance of these notes resulted in an increase in
interest expense. Interest expense for 1995 was
 
                                      19
<PAGE>
 
reduced by $949,423 because of interest capitalized on amounts expended on the
Phase III Expansion, the Phase IV Expansion and the Phase V Expansion.
Interest expense for 1994 was reduced by $619,887 because of interest
capitalized on amounts expended on the Eastside Expansion and the Phase III
Expansion. Other income for 1994 was a one-time gain of $1.1 million related
to the resale of two real estate parcels previously owned by the Company. A
one-time gain of $966,510 related to the sale of real estate which was sold by
the Company to a related party in December 1991. In April 1994, the real
estate was resold to a non-related party. Pursuant to the terms of the sales
agreement between the Company and the related party, the Company was entitled
to a portion of the resale proceeds, which equaled $966,510, net of expenses.
Another one-time gain of $173,500 related to the sale of a second piece of
real property owned by the Company until May 1991, when it was sold to a non-
related party. Pursuant to the terms of the sales agreement, the Company was
entitled to a portion of the resale proceeds or refinancing amount, which
equaled $173,500, net of expenses.
 
  Net income for 1995 increased 17% to $18.7 million or $0.87 per share (fully
diluted) from $16.0 million or $0.74 per share (fully diluted) for 1994 as a
result of the factors discussed above.
 
IMPACT OF INFLATION
 
  Absent changes in competitive and economic conditions or in specific prices
affecting the industry, the Company believes that the hotel-casino industry
may be able to maintain its operating profit margins in periods of general
inflation by increasing minimum wagering limits for its games and increasing
the prices of its hotel rooms, food and beverage and other items, and by
taking action designed to increase the number of patrons. The industry may be
able to maintain growth in gaming revenues by the tendency of customer gaming
budgets to increase with inflation. Changes in specific prices (such as fuel
and transportation prices) relative to the general rate of inflation may have
a material effect on the hotel-casino industry.
 
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
 
  On February 4, 1997, the Company issued $125 million in principal amount of
the Company's 9 1/2% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2007. Approximately $112.0
million of the net proceeds of $121.6 million were utilized to reduce the
principal amount that had been drawn under the Company's $200 million Rio Bank
Loan, thereby increasing the amount available to the Company under the line of
credit by a corresponding amount.
 
  During the nine months ended September 30, 1997, net cash provided by
operating activities was $32.5 million. Net cash used in investing activities
was $77.0 million, including approximately $54.5 million related to the
construction of the Phase V Expansion, $6.1 million in land acquisitions
adjacent to the Rio, and $16.4 million for the acquisition of the Rio Secco
Golf Club. The Company obtained an $8.0 million loan from Bank of America in
May 1997 as partial funding of its estimated $28.0 million investment,
including the assumption of $4.5 million in debt, in the Rio Secco Golf Club,
which will include a clubhouse, golf school and other associated amenities.
   
  The Company has commenced the first phase of the New Rio Master Plan, which
will include a new road providing additional access to the Las Vegas Strip,
site work for a future resort and various additions to the Rio. The
improvements to the Rio will include a 100,000 square foot
entertainment/meeting/special event/convention center, 10,000 square feet of
new retail space, nine "Palazzo" suites, an additional swimming pool, a 650-
car valet parking garage, an authentic Chinese restaurant, 20,000 square feet
of additional exhibition space in the Masquerade Village, an expansion of the
Shutters premium gaming lounge, creation of a concierge suite level in both of
the Rio's existing hotel towers, and an expansion of the Rio's spa. These
improvements, along with the new road, are scheduled to open in stages through
1998 and early 1999. The New Rio Master Plan also provides for a separate
3,000-room hotel casino resort on the 43-acre site adjacent to the Rio. The
timetable, theme and cost of this separate hotel casino resort project have
not yet been established.     
 
                                      20
<PAGE>
 
  The Rio Bank Loan is a $200 million senior secured reducing revolving credit
facility that matures June 30, 2001 obtained from a syndicate of banks led by
Bank of America NT&SA. As of September 30, 1997, $130.0 million was available
for borrowing under the Rio Bank Loan. Proceeds from the Rio Bank Loan may be
used for general corporate purposes. The Rio Bank Loan is secured by a first
deed of trust on substantially all of the real property owned by Rio
Properties, and other real and personal property, and is guaranteed by the
Company, which guarantee is secured by a pledge of the capital stock of Rio
Properties. The Company is currently engaged in discussions with Bank of
America NT&SA to amend and restate the Rio Bank Loan to provide for a $275
million credit facility that will mature December 31, 2003. The Amended and
Restated Rio Bank Loan will provide for greater borrowing capacity, subject to
compliance with certain financial tests, and lower pricing. There can be no
assurances that the Company will be able to modify the Rio Bank Loan.
 
  Based upon cash on hand, cash available through borrowings, including
additional issuances of debt, and cash provided by operations, the Company
believes that it has adequate cash available to fund real estate purchase
commitments, the first phase of the New Rio Master Plan, ongoing maintenance
and upgrades, investment commitments associated with the acquisition of the
Rio Secco Golf Club and the Company's operations.
 
                                      21
<PAGE>
 
                                   BUSINESS
 
  The Company owns and operates an all-suite hotel-casino, the Rio Suite Hotel
& Casino, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Situated on an elevated site adjacent to the
Flamingo Road exit from Interstate 15, the freeway linking Las Vegas with
Southern California, the Rio is strategically positioned to attract travelers
along Interstate 15, tourists visiting the Las Vegas Strip and local Las Vegas
residents. The Company markets to both local residents and Las Vegas visitors.
Management believes that the Rio's all-suite concept, diverse high quality
dining, easy access and ample parking provide an attractive alternative to the
Las Vegas Strip and a fun and comfortable environment in which to enjoy
gaming, dining and entertainment.
 
  The Rio is decorated throughout in a fun-filled Carnivale and Mardi Gras
theme. The Rio features 2,582 suites, including 1,551 suites contained in
three connected 21-story hotel towers and 1,031 suites in a new 41-story
curved tower. On February 7, 1997, the Rio celebrated the grand opening of the
public areas of its Phase V Expansion project, the Masquerade Village, and now
features a 116,000 square foot casino; 14 restaurants and 14 bars; a 595-seat
entertainment complex; a 32,000 square foot retail area; a 108,000 square foot
outdoor entertainment area featuring a landscaped sand beach and three
swimming pools; and parking for approximately 3,600 cars. The Rio's casino
offers approximately 2,500 slot machines, 109 table games, including a premium
gaming area, a poker room, keno and a race and sports book.
 
  The Rio has completed the $200 million Phase V Expansion, exclusive of
construction period interest and preopening costs, centered around the
Masquerade Village. The Masquerade Village contains approximately 120,000
square feet of public space with a Carnivale and Mardi Gras themed casino
expansion, featuring Masquerade Show in the Sky, an interactive $25 million
indoor attraction, a variety of new restaurants and fine specialty retail
shops. The Phase V Expansion added a curved 41-story hotel tower containing
1,031 suites and 27,000 square feet of additional casino space.
 
  On September 8, 1997, the Company acquired the Seven Hills Golf Course in
Henderson, Nevada, a suburb of Las Vegas, and renamed it the Rio Secco Golf
Club. The course, located in the master-planned community of Seven Hills, is
complete and opened for play in October 1997. The clubhouse is under
construction and is scheduled for completion during the second quarter of
1998. The Company intends to use the course to provide a golf school operated
by Butch Harmon and golf vacation packages to its guests, in addition to
providing play on the course primarily to its local and tourist customers.
 
  The Company was incorporated in California in 1981 and reincorporated in
Nevada in 1988. The Company changed its name from MarCor Resorts, Inc. to Rio
Hotel & Casino, Inc. in February 1992. Its executive offices are located at
3700 West Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, Nevada 89103, and its telephone number is
(702) 252-7733.
 
MASQUERADE VILLAGE
 
  On February 7, 1997, the Company opened its Masquerade Village, consisting
of five new restaurants and additional retail, gaming and entertainment space.
A sixth restaurant, the VooDoo Cafe, located at the top of the new 41-story
tower overlooking the Las Vegas Strip, opened on May 24, 1997. Inspired by
European architecture, Masquerade Village blends celebrations of Carnivale in
Rio de Janeiro and Venice, and Mardi Gras in New Orleans, into a unique
entertainment experience.
 
  The Masquerade Village includes fine specialty retail shops and restaurants,
and a wine cellar and tasting room. Retail stores include a Nicole Miller
boutique, GUESS? Footwear, Speedo Authentic Fitness, Watch Zone by Sunshade
Optique, Alegre and Reel Outfitters. New restaurants include Mama Marie's
Cucina, Mask, Napa Restaurant and The Wine Cellar Tasting Room, Bamboleo,
Village
 
                                      22
<PAGE>
 
Seafood Buffet and The VooDoo Cafe. The Masquerade Village features a fully
interactive $25.0 million indoor attraction, Masquerade Show in the Sky. The
Masquerade Show in the Sky consists of three complete parades, each with its
own themed music, costumes and live performers. The show features five floats
in each of the three parades, suspended on a 950-foot track located over the
casino floor. A cast of 36 specialty dancers, musicians, aerialists and
costume stilt walkers perform in 17 performing areas. Rio guests can
participate in the show by traveling on a float in complete costume amid the
performers.
 
BUSINESS STRATEGY
   
  The Company's business strategy focuses on attracting and fostering repeat
business from customers in the middle to upper income segments of the local
resident and tourist markets. To implement its business strategy, the Company
capitalizes on its all-suite concept, strategic location, and fun-filled
Carnivale and Mardi Gras theme. The Company strives to provide a quality,
affordable gaming and entertainment experience in order to generate high
customer satisfaction and loyalty. The Rio's location at Interstate 15 and
Flamingo Road helps to attract both of its target market segments. The Rio's
value-priced suites provide an attractive alternative to conventional Las
Vegas rooms for visitors who desire to avoid the crowds and congestion of the
Las Vegas Strip. Rio's suites offer approximately 50% more space than other
comparably priced Las Vegas hotel rooms. As a means to capitalize on the high-
quality amenities that the Rio offers, management has increased its marketing
efforts to premium players. Management believes that it must offer consistent
quality, a comfortable and fun atmosphere and, most importantly, friendly
service at affordable prices to provide a high value experience to its
customers.     
 
  To encourage repeat visits, the Company attempts to ensure that each
customer has an enjoyable, high quality and high value experience. Management
believes that it must offer consistent quality, a comfortable and fun
atmosphere and, most importantly, friendly service at affordable prices to
provide a high value experience to its customers. Accordingly, the Rio's
suites offer guests approximately 50% more space than comparably priced Las
Vegas hotel rooms. Similarly, the Company's restaurants have won awards year
after year for their quality dining. All of the Rio's restaurants offer
generous portions of high quality food at reasonable prices which management
believes is a major factor in attracting the value-conscious customer.
 
  Management believes that friendly service combined with a quality facility
are integral to generating repeat business from locals as well as tourists. As
a result, management continually seeks to instill in each employee a sense of
service excellence designed to exceed guest expectations. To motivate its
employees, management also strives to instill a sense of "Team Rio" in all of
the Company's employees by making the Rio a fun place to work. Management
strongly believes that its employees are one of the Company's biggest assets.
 
  The Company has created an identifiable and innovative marketing presence
and continues to build on its "signature" Rio theme. The Rio's Carnivale theme
incorporates bright colors, creative interior designs, festive employee
costumes and other exotic touches to contribute to its tropical ambiance. The
Masquerade Village expands on the Carnivale theme to blend Carnivale and Mardi
Gras entertainment experiences through architecture, retail and restaurant
areas, and the Masquerade Show in the Sky. The Rio's message of a fun-filled,
colorful atmosphere is constantly emphasized. The Rio has developed the Rio
Rita(TM) character as a promotional ambassador to the Rio's hotel-casino
guests and as a focal point upon which many promotional activities have been
built, such as Carnival Dice(TM), Rio Rita's(TM) Lotto Bucks, Carnival
Days(TM), Conga Mania(TM) and Brazilia Days(TM).
   
  The high quality of the Company's facilities and service is reflected by the
large number of awards the Rio has received. In the 1997-1998 Zagat Hotel and
Restaurant Survey, the Rio received awards for "Best Rooms," "Best Service,"
"Best Food" and "Best Overall Hotel" in Las Vegas. In addition, the     
 
                                      23
<PAGE>
 
   
Rio was selected by the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences to be the
first and only recipient of the Five Star Diamond Award for 1997 in Las Vegas.
The American Academy of Hospitality Sciences has bestowed fewer than 100
hotels and resorts internationally with this award. Furthermore, the Casino
Player 1997 "Best of Gaming" readers' poll voted the Rio best in 12
categories, including "Best Overall Hotel & Casino."     
 
MARKETING STRATEGY
 
  The Company's marketing efforts are targeted at both the local patron and
the tourist market. To market to local patrons, the Rio relies on its
convenient location, its ample parking, its value-priced food and its slot
machine variety. Management believes that its restaurants, in particular the
Carnival World Buffet, are among the Rio's primary attractions for local
patrons. The Carnival World Buffet is one of the most popular buffets in Las
Vegas due to its extensive selections, its high quality food and the
entertainment provided by the live-action cooking stations. During 1996, the
Carnival World Buffet served an average of approximately 6,600 people per day.
In addition to its emphasis on food and beverage, the Rio also has an
aggressive marketing program which encompasses frequent radio, television and
newspaper advertising, a variety of promotions directed at the local customer
and other programs such as check cashing promotions.
 
  To attract visitors and fill the Rio's hotel rooms, the Company markets
primarily to three segments of the tourist market: independent travel,
wholesale and special casino customers. The independent travel segment
consists of those travelers not affiliated with groups who make their
reservations directly with the Rio or through independent travel agents. To
attract the independent traveler, the Rio periodically utilizes print media,
radio and direct mail to advertise in Southern California, Phoenix and other
travel markets. In addition, the Company's sales force frequently attends
trade shows in order to establish relationships with and promote the Rio to
travel agents nationwide. The wholesale segment comprises those patrons
participating in travel packages offered by air tour operators. To capture
this segment of the market, the Rio has developed specialized marketing
programs for, and cultivated relationships with, these operators. Finally,
special casino customers are those frequent gaming customers who are in
regular communication with Rio casino marketing personnel. The Company offers
VIP services, casino hosts and a premium gaming lounge to certain special
casino customers. The Rio utilizes a variety of promotions, including credit
availability, and special events and other amenities in marketing to this
segment.
 
THE RIO
 
  Since 1992, the Company has consistently expanded the Rio under its master
plan. The Rio has 2,582 suites, approximately 2,500 slot machines and 109
table games.
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                             AS OF AND
                              FOR THE
                            NINE MONTHS     AS OF AND FOR THE YEAR ENDED
                               ENDED                DECEMBER 31,
                           SEPTEMBER 30, --------------------------------------
                               1997       1996    1995    1994    1993    1992
                           ------------- ------  ------  ------  ------  ------
<S>                        <C>           <C>     <C>     <C>     <C>     <C>
Average daily suite rate.      $88.84    $76.93  $72.18  $63.80  $62.60  $64.09
Average daily hotel
 occupancy...............        90.0%     94.5%   94.5%   95.9%   96.8%   96.5%
Hotel suites.............       2,582     1,998   1,551     861     861     424
Casino square footage....     116,000    89,000  89,000  89,000  79,000  54,000
Slot machines(1).........       2,442     1,884   2,098   2,200   1,950   1,450
Table games(1)...........         102        79      73      53      44      31
Restaurant seats.........       4,152     2,540   2,540   2,440   1,843   1,209
</TABLE>    
- --------
(1) Average number available during the period.
 
                                      24
<PAGE>
 
  Gaming. With the opening of the Masquerade Village on February 7, 1997, the
Rio now offers 116,000 square feet of casino space containing approximately
2,500 slot machines; 109 table games, including "21," craps, roulette, pai gow
poker, Caribbean stud poker, baccarat and mini-baccarat; other casino games
such as keno and poker; and a race and sports book.
 
  Gaming operations at the Rio are continually being monitored and modified to
respond to both changing market conditions and customer demand in an effort to
attract new customers while retaining its existing customer base. New and
innovative slot and table games have been introduced based on customer
feedback and demand from both local customers and Las Vegas visitors.
Management has introduced such games as Rio Rita's(TM) Royals, Rio Rita's(TM)
Bonus Poker, Sneaky Queens(TM) and Mambo Bucks(TM). Management devotes
substantial time and attention to the type, location and player activity of
all gaming devices. The Company believes that to continue to attract and
retain slot customers, it must expand the number and variety of slot machines
on its casino floor, particularly its higher denomination slot machines.
 
  Hotel. The Rio's three connected 21-story hotel towers contain a total of
1,551 suites, comprised of 1,504 standard Rio suites, 16 "super" suites, 18
"cariocas" suites, six two-story penthouse suites, and seven executive suites
that combine a conference room and an adjoining suite. The new 41-story hotel
tower contains a total of 1,031 suites, comprised of 949 standard suites, 78
executive suites, three "hospitality" suites ranging in size from 1,612 to
2,418 square feet, and one "Presidential" suite consisting of 2,989 square
feet. The Company has progressively added new hotel suites since 1993 to meet
its consistently strong demand. Despite such expansion, the Rio has maintained
average occupancy rates of 95% for both 1995 and 1996, and 90% during the nine
months ended September 30, 1997.
   
  The standard Rio suite is a luxury room measuring approximately 600 square
feet, compared to approximately 400 square feet for the typical Las Vegas
hotel room. The Carnivale theme is carried throughout the guest suites in wall
coverings, art work and other designer accents. Suite amenities include carved
wood finishes, cut glass, polished granite surfaces, marble tile in the bath
areas, room safes and refrigerators. The Company's use of the term "suite" is
currently the subject of litigation. See "Business--Legal Proceedings."     
 
                                      25
<PAGE>
 
  Restaurants. While important to attracting Las Vegas visitor gaming
customers, the high quality, value and variety of food services are critical
to consistently attracting the local resident gaming customer to the Rio. To
provide such variety, 13 bars and 13 restaurants are located in the Rio's main
floor area, and a bar and restaurant are located at the top of the new 41-
story tower overlooking the Las Vegas Strip. During 1996, before the addition
of the six restaurants contained in the Phase V Expansion project, the Rio
served an average of approximately 12,000 meals per day, including banquets
and room service. The following table sets forth, for each restaurant, the
type of service provided and the current seating capacity:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      NUMBER
                                             TYPE                    OF SEATS
                                             ----                    --------
 <C>                        <S>                                      <C>
 All American Bar & Grille. Steaks, ribs, chicken and seafood           202
 Antonio's................. Italian fine-dining                         100
 Beach Cafe................ 24-hour full menu coffee shop               318
                            featuring American and Chinese cuisine
 Buzios.................... Seafood and oyster bar                      160
 Carnival World Buffet..... Buffet with live action cooking           1,040
                            featuring Brazilian, Chinese, Italian,
                            Mexican, Japanese, Western BBQ and
                            traditional buffet
 Toscano's Deli & Market... Deli items, pizza and pasta, ice cream      104
                            and gelato, and a large selection of
                            bakery products
 Copacabana Showroom....... Entertainment showroom and Club Rio
                            nightclub                                   595
 Fiore Rotisserie & Grille. Fine-dining featuring rotisserie-           186
                            grilled seafood, beef and poultry
 Mama Marie's Cucina....... Family style casual Italian dining          150
 Mask...................... Far Eastern restaurant                      175
 Napa Restaurant and The    Fine-dining featuring French country        174
  Wine Cellar Tasting Room. cuisine and daily wine tastings
 Bamboleo.................. Latin restaurant featuring foods from
                            south of the border                         250
 Village Seafood Buffet.... Fresh seafood buffet                        332
 VooDoo Cafe............... New Orleans flavored restaurant             366(1)
                            featuring Creole and Cajun cuisine
                                                                      -----
        Total..............                                           4,152
                                                                      =====
</TABLE>
- --------
(1) Includes the VooDoo Cafe Patio featuring outdoor seating for 48.
 
  Entertainment and Other Attractions. Masquerade Village, which opened on
February 7, 1997, features Masquerade Show in the Sky, an interactive
entertainment experience consisting of three complete parades, each with its
own themed music, costumes and live performances. The show, designed to
emulate celebrations of Carnivale in Rio de Janeiro and Venice, and Mardi Gras
in New Orleans, consists of five floats in each of the three parades suspended
along a 950-foot track located above the casino floor, and a cast of 36
specialty dancers, musicians, aerialists and costumed stilt-walkers. Rio
guests can participate in the show by traveling on a float in complete costume
amid the performers. The Masquerade Village also contains fine specialty
retail stores in a 32,000 square foot retail area.
 
                                      26
<PAGE>
 
  The Rio's Copacabana Showroom is a unique, circular 595-seat video,
entertainment and restaurant complex which features two 12-foot by 90-foot
video screens, an exhibition cooking area, multiple tiers of dining room
seating and a stage. The Copacabana Showroom is utilized as an entertainment
showroom and a late-night dance club, Club Rio. The showroom is also used for
casino-hosted events, concerts, viewing of sporting events on the large video
screens, and corporate meetings that capitalize on the unique audio visual
qualities of the room.
 
  The Ipanema Lounge and Mambo's Lounge each offer live entertainment in
separate casino cocktail settings. The Rio also houses a spa, a hair and
beauty salon, and an exercise room, as well as approximately 13,250 square
feet of public meeting and banquet room facilities.
 
  The Rio's pool/outdoor entertainment area is approximately 108,000 square
feet and includes a landscaped sand beach, an 11-foot waterfall, three
swimming pools, a multi-level spa, and two terrace bars and food service
facility. The Company hosts beach parties, volleyball games, outdoor concerts
with name performers and other special events, including professional sporting
events.
 
  The Company has also acquired a golf course located in the master planned
community of Seven Hills in Henderson, Nevada, and intends to use the course
to provide a golf school and golf vacation packages to its guests, in addition
to providing play on the course primarily to its local and tourist customers.
 
EXPANSION STRATEGY
 
  Rio Master Plan. The Rio's conceptual master plan was originally designed to
accommodate multiple expansions without significantly interrupting normal
business operations. This design included construction of a reinforced
foundation for the hotel tower and an elevator core to support and facilitate
additional room construction. The Company has also assembled ample acreage to
allow future expansions. Starting from its original 30 acres, the Company
acquired 15 additional acres in 1989 and 1991 and has purchased or has
acquired an option to purchase an additional 38 acres as of September 30,
1997.
 
                                      27
<PAGE>
 
  Management believes that a high quality, well-maintained property offering
innovative entertainment is integral to success in the highly competitive Las
Vegas gaming market. This belief has driven the Company's master plan
development strategy. The Company has added substantial new facilities at the
Rio every year since 1992.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 START
                                                                 DATE  OPENING
                                                                 ----- -------
   <S>                                                           <C>   <C>
   Initial Construction......................................... 12/88   1/90
   Casino (10,000 sq. ft.)/Buffet Expansion.....................  7/92  12/92
   Phase II Expansion
     Buzios Restaurant..........................................  1/93   5/93
     Meeting Rooms..............................................  1/93   8/93
     437-Suite Tower............................................  1/93   9/93
   Eastside Expansion
     Two-Story Parking Garage...................................  7/93  10/93
     Casino Space (25,000 sq. ft.)..............................  7/93  12/93
     Copacabana Showroom........................................  7/93   2/94
     Fiore Restaurant...........................................  7/93   4/94
     Expanded Pool Area.........................................  7/93   4/94
   Phase III Expansion
     Three-Story Parking Garage.................................  5/94   8/94
     Casino Space (10,000 sq. ft.)..............................  5/94  11/94
     Buffet Expansion...........................................  5/94  11/94
     549-Suite Tower............................................  5/94   2/95
   Phase IV Expansion
     141-Suite Addition.........................................  4/95  12/95
     Buzios Expansion...........................................  4/95  12/95
     Meeting Rooms Expansion....................................  4/95  11/95
     Health Club and Salon......................................  4/95  12/95
   Phase V Expansion
     1,031-Suite Tower..........................................  9/95   6/97(1)
     Casino Space (27,000 sq. ft.)..............................  9/95   2/97
     Masquerade Village.........................................  9/95   2/97
     Spa and Salon Expansion....................................  9/95   2/97
     Four-Story Parking Garage..................................  9/95   7/96
     Expanded Pool Area.........................................  9/95   2/97
     VooDoo Cafe................................................  9/95   5/97
</TABLE>
- --------
(1) The new suites were opened in several phases commencing December 31, 1996
    and continuing through the second quarter of 1997.
 
  As of September 30, 1997, the Company has invested in excess of $550 million
in the development, expansion and renovation of the Rio.
 
  New Rio Master Plan. The Company has assembled 43 acres immediately adjacent
to the Rio (seven of which are subject to an option to purchase), bringing the
total acreage at the Rio to 83 acres. In October 1997, the Company announced
the New Rio Master Plan for continued development of the existing Rio site and
the adjacent 43 acre site. The New Rio Master Plan is expected to be
implemented in phases, the first of which has been commenced and includes an
entertainment/ meeting/special event/convention center, a complex of nine
"Palazzo" suites designed for the premium market, a restaurant serving
authentic Chinese food, a valet parking structure, a retail shopping area,
 
                                      28
<PAGE>
 
an expanded outdoor entertainment area with an additional swimming pool,
additional exhibition space in the Masquerade Village, an expansion of the
Shutters premium gaming lounge, creation of a concierge suite level in both
the Rio's existing towers and an expansion of the Rio's spa, and a new road
that connects the Rio and the Las Vegas Strip by extending Twain Avenue to
Industrial Road.
 
  This first phase is anticipated to be completed in stages through 1998 and
early 1999 at an estimated cost of $200 million. Subsequent phases of the New
Rio Master Plan are currently at the conceptual stage. These phases currently
include a separate hotel of up to 3,000 rooms, up to nine additional luxury
villas and two additional parking structures. The timetable, theme and cost of
the subsequent phases have not yet been established and there can be no
assurance that the New Rio Master Plan will be implemented successfully if at
all. See "Risk Factors--Construction and Development Risks."
   
LAS VEGAS MARKET     
 
  The large and expanding Las Vegas gaming market includes both local
residents and Las Vegas visitors. Located in Clark County, Las Vegas has a
local population of approximately 1.0 million. Clark County has had one of the
fastest growing populations in the United States. Between 1995 and 1996, the
population increased by 8% versus 1% for the United States as a whole. The
number of visitors traveling to Las Vegas increased at a steady and
significant rate from 15.2 million in 1986 to 29.6 million visitors in 1996, a
compound annual growth rate of 7%. Aggregate expenditures by visitors
increased at an estimated compound annual growth rate of 12% from $7.5 billion
in 1986 to $22.5 billion (estimate) in 1996. The number of hotel/motel rooms
increased by approximately 65% from 61,394 in 1988 to 101,106 in 1996. Despite
this significant increase in hotel/motel rooms, Las Vegas' hotel occupancy
rate exceeded 85% in each year from 1986 to 1996 and averaged 90% during that
period.
 
  In conjunction with the expansion of gaming in the United States, Las Vegas
has sought to increase its popularity as a vacation and convention
destination. An increasing number of destination resorts are developing non-
gaming entertainment to complement their gaming in order to draw visitors to
Las Vegas. The MGM Grand Hotel and Theme Park opened in December 1993 with
approximately 5,000 hotel rooms, a multi-themed casino and a large-scale
amusement and entertainment facility. Shortly before the MGM opening, the
Luxor's 2,600-room project along with Treasure Island's 2,900-room complex
adjacent to the Mirage opened. In 1996, the second wave of large-scale resort
openings commenced, with the Stratosphere Hotel Casino consisting of 1,444
rooms opening in April 1996 and the Monte Carlo Casino Resort with 3,014 rooms
opening in June 1996. The latest large-scale destination resort on the Las
Vegas Strip, New York-New York, opened in January 1997 with 2,034 rooms. By
the end of 1999, it is anticipated that at least nine new large destination
resorts and approximately 21,500 additional hotel rooms will be opened in Las
Vegas.
 
COMPETITION
 
  The gaming industry includes land-based casinos, dockside casinos, riverboat
casinos, casinos located on Native American land and other forms of legalized
gaming. There is intense competition among companies in the gaming industry,
some of which have significantly greater resources than the Company.
 
  The Rio faces competition from all other casinos and hotels in the Las Vegas
area, including competitors located on the Las Vegas Strip, on the Boulder
Highway and in downtown Las Vegas. Such competition includes a number of
hotel-casinos targeted primarily toward local residents, as well as numerous
non-hotel gaming facilities targeted toward local residents. In recent months,
several of the Company's direct competitors have opened new hotel-casinos or
have commenced or completed major expansion projects, and other expansions are
in progress or are planned. As of July 31, 1997,
 
                                      29
<PAGE>
 
there were approximately 44 major gaming properties located on or near the Las
Vegas Strip, 16 located in the downtown area, five located on the Boulder
Highway and 15 located in other areas in or near Las Vegas. According to the
Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, the Las Vegas hotel-motel room
inventory was 103,916 as of July 31, 1997 and both construction of new
properties and expansion of existing hotel-casinos is expected to increase
inventory to approximately 115,500 rooms by 1998. In the past year two new
mega-resorts have opened on or near the Las Vegas Strip. Nine new hotel-
casinos and two hotel-casino expansions are under development, which will add
approximately 21,500 rooms to the Las Vegas area by the year 2000. Major
expansions or enhancements of existing properties or the construction of new
properties by competitors, could have a material adverse effect on the
Company's business.
 
  To a lesser extent, the Rio competes with hotel-casinos located in the
Laughlin and Reno-Lake Tahoe areas of Nevada and in Atlantic City, New Jersey.
The Company also competes with state-sponsored lotteries, on- and off-track
wagering, card parlors, riverboat and Native American gaming ventures and
other forms of legalized gaming in the United States, as well as with gaming
on cruise ships and international gaming operations. In addition, many states
have recently legalized, and additional other states are currently considering
legalizing, casino gaming in specific geographic areas within those states.
The Company believes that the growth in the legalization of gaming is fueled
by a combination of increasing popularity and acceptability of gaming
activities and the desire and need for states and local communities to
generate revenues without increasing general taxation. The Company believes
that the legalization of unlimited land-based casino gaming in or near any
major metropolitan area, such as Chicago or Los Angeles, could have a material
adverse effect on its current hotel-casino business. The development of
casinos, lotteries and other forms of gaming in other states, particularly in
areas close to Nevada, such as California, could adversely affect the
Company's operations.
 
  As its principal methods of competition, the Company utilizes what
management believes to be its all-suite concept based upon a Carnivale theme,
diverse high quality dining and ample parking, which management believes
provide an attractive alternative to the closest source of the Company's
competition, the Las Vegas Strip, and a fun and comfortable environment in
which to enjoy gaming, dining and entertainment.
 
REGULATION AND LICENSING
 
  The ownership and operation of casino gaming facilities in Nevada are
subject to: (i) the Nevada Gaming Control Act and the regulations promulgated
thereunder (collectively, the "Nevada Act"); and (ii) various local
regulations. The Company's gaming operations are subject to the licensing and
regulatory control of the Nevada Commission, the Nevada State Gaming Control
Board (the "Nevada Board"), and the Clark County Liquor and Gaming Licensing
Board (the "Clark County Board"). The Nevada Commission, the Nevada Board, and
the Clark County Board are collectively referred to as the "Nevada Gaming
Authorities."
 
  The laws, regulations and supervisory procedures of the Nevada Gaming
Authorities are based upon declarations of public policy which are concerned
with, among other things: (i) the prevention of unsavory or unsuitable persons
from having a direct or indirect involvement with gaming at any time or in any
capacity; (ii) the establishment and maintenance of responsible accounting
practices and procedures; (iii) the maintenance of effective controls over the
financial practices of licensees, including the establishment of minimum
procedures for internal fiscal affairs and the safeguarding of assets and
revenues, providing reliable record keeping and requiring the filing of
periodic reports with the Nevada Gaming Authorities; (iv) the prevention of
cheating and fraudulent practices; and (v) providing a source of state and
local revenues through taxation and licensing fees. Changes in such laws,
regulations and procedures could have an adverse effect on the Company's
gaming operations.
 
  Rio Properties, which operates the casino, is required to be licensed by the
Nevada Gaming Authorities. The gaming license requires the periodic payment of
fees and taxes and is not
 
                                      30
<PAGE>
 
transferable. The Company is registered by the Nevada Commission as a publicly
traded corporation ("Registered Corporation") and as such, it is required
periodically to submit detailed financial and operating reports to the Nevada
Commission and furnish any other information which the Nevada Commission may
require. The Company has obtained from the Nevada Gaming Authorities the
various registrations, approvals, permits and licenses required in order to
engage in gaming activities in Nevada.
 
  The Nevada Gaming Authorities may investigate any individual who has a
material relationship to, or material involvement with, the Company in order
to determine whether such individual is suitable or should be licensed as a
business associate of a gaming licensee. Officers, directors and certain key
employees of the Company must file applications with the Nevada Gaming
Authorities and may be required to be licensed or found suitable by the Nevada
Gaming Authorities. Officers, directors and key employees of the Company who
are actively and directly involved in gaming activities of the Company may be
required to be licensed or found suitable by the Nevada Gaming Authorities.
The Nevada Gaming Authorities may deny an application for licensing for any
cause which they deem reasonable. A finding of suitability is comparable to
licensing, and both require submission of detailed personal and financial
information followed by a thorough investigation. The applicant for licensing
or a finding of suitability must pay all the costs of the investigation.
Changes in licensed positions must be reported to the Nevada Gaming
Authorities and in addition to their authority to deny an application for a
finding of suitability or licensure, the Nevada Gaming Authorities have
jurisdiction to disapprove a change in a corporate position.
 
  If the Nevada Gaming Authorities were to find an officer, director or key
employee unsuitable for licensing or unsuitable to continue having a
relationship with the Company, the Company would have to sever all
relationships with such person. In addition, the Nevada Commission may require
the Company to terminate the employment of any person who refuses to file
appropriate applications. Determinations of suitability or of questions
pertaining to licensing are not subject to judicial review in Nevada.
 
  The Company is required to submit detailed financial and operating reports
to the Nevada Commission. Substantially all material loans, leases, sales of
securities and similar financing transactions by the Company must be reported
to, or approved by, the Nevada Commission.
 
  If it were determined that the Nevada Act was violated by the Company, the
gaming licenses it holds could be limited, conditioned, suspended or revoked,
subject to compliance with certain statutory and regulatory procedures. In
addition, the Company and the persons involved could be subject to substantial
fines for each separate violation of the Nevada Act at the discretion of the
Nevada Commission. Further, a supervisor could be appointed by the Nevada
Commission to operate the Company's gaming properties and, under certain
circumstances, earnings generated during the supervisor's appointment (except
for the reasonable rental value of the Company's gaming properties) could be
forfeited to the State of Nevada. Limitation, conditioning or suspension of
any gaming license or the appointment of a supervisor could (and revocation of
any gaming license would) materially adversely affect the Company's gaming
operations.
 
  Any beneficial holder of the Company's voting securities, regardless of the
number of shares owned, may be required to file an application, be
investigated, and have such holder's suitability as a beneficial holder of the
Company's voting securities determined, if the Nevada Commission has reason to
believe that such ownership would otherwise be inconsistent with the declared
policies of the State of Nevada. The applicant must pay all costs of
investigation incurred by the Nevada Gaming Authorities in conducting any such
investigation.
 
  The Nevada Act requires any person who acquires more than 5% of the
Company's voting securities to report the acquisition to the Nevada
Commission. The Nevada Act requires that beneficial owners of more than 10% of
the Company's voting securities apply to the Nevada Commission for a
 
                                      31
<PAGE>
 
finding of suitability within 30 days after the Chairman of the Nevada Board
mails the written notice requiring such filing. Under certain circumstances,
an "institutional investor," as defined in the Nevada Act, which acquires more
than 10%, but not more than 15%, of the Company's voting securities may apply
to the Nevada Commission for a waiver of such finding of suitability if such
institutional investor holds the voting securities for investment purposes
only. An institutional investor shall not be deemed to hold voting securities
for investment purposes unless the voting securities were acquired and are
held in the ordinary course of business as an institutional investor and not
for the purpose of causing, directly or indirectly, the election of a majority
of the members of the board of directors of the Company, any change in the
Company's corporate charter, bylaws, management, policies or operations of the
Company, or any of its gaming affiliates, or any other action which the Nevada
Commission finds to be inconsistent with holding the Company's voting
securities for investment purposes only. Activities which are not deemed to be
inconsistent with holding voting securities for investment purposes only
include: (i) voting on all matters voted on by stockholders; (ii) making
financial and other inquiries of management of the type normally made by
securities analysts for informational purposes and not to cause a change in
its management, policies or operations; and (iii) such other activities as the
Nevada Commission may determine to be consistent with such investment intent.
If the beneficial holder of voting securities who must be found suitable is a
corporation, partnership or trust, it must submit detailed business and
financial information including a list of beneficial owners. The applicant is
required to pay all costs of investigation.
 
  Any person who fails or refuses to apply for a finding of suitability or a
license within 30 days after being ordered to do so by the Nevada Commission
or the Chairman of the Nevada Board, may be found unsuitable. The same
restrictions apply to a record owner if the record owner, after request, fails
to identify the beneficial owner. Any stockholder found unsuitable and who
holds, directly or indirectly, any beneficial ownership of the common stock of
a Registered Corporation beyond such period of time as may be prescribed by
the Nevada Commission may be guilty of a criminal offense. The Company is
subject to disciplinary action if, after it receives notice that a person is
unsuitable to be a stockholder or to have any other relationship with the
Company, the Company (i) pays that person any dividend or interest upon voting
securities of the Company, (ii) allows that person to exercise, directly or
indirectly, any voting right conferred through securities held by that person,
(iii) pays remuneration in any form to that person for services rendered or
otherwise, or (iv) fails to pursue all lawful efforts to require such
unsuitable person to relinquish his voting securities for cash at fair market
value.
 
  The Nevada Commission may, in its discretion, require the holder of any debt
security of a Registered Corporation to file applications, be investigated and
be found suitable to own the debt security of a Registered Corporation. If the
Nevada Commission determines that a person is unsuitable to own such security,
then pursuant to the Nevada Act, the Registered Corporation can be sanctioned,
including the loss of its approvals, if without the prior approval of the
Nevada Commission, it: (i) pays to the unsuitable person any dividend,
interest, or any distribution whatsoever; (ii) recognizes any voting right by
such unsuitable person in connection with such securities; (iii) pays the
unsuitable person remuneration in any form; or (iv) makes any payment to the
unsuitable person by way of principal, redemption, conversion, exchange,
liquidation or similar transaction.
 
  The Company is required to maintain a current stock ledger in Nevada which
may be examined by the Nevada Gaming Authorities at any time. If any
securities are held in trust by an agent or by a nominee, the record holder
may be required to disclose the identity of the beneficial owner to the Nevada
Gaming Authorities. A failure to make such disclosure may be grounds for
finding the record holder unsuitable. The Company is also required to render
maximum assistance in determining the identity of the beneficial owner. The
Nevada Commission has the power to require the Company's stock certificates to
bear a legend indicating that the securities are subject to the Nevada Act.
 
  The Company may not make a public offering of its securities without the
prior approval of the Nevada Commission if the securities or proceeds
therefrom are intended to be used to construct,
 
                                      32
<PAGE>
 
acquire or finance gaming facilities in Nevada, or to retire or extend
obligations incurred for such purposes. On July 24, 1997, the Nevada
Commission granted the Company prior approval to make public offerings for a
period of one year, subject to certain conditions ("Shelf Approval"). However,
the Shelf Approval may be rescinded for good cause without prior notice upon
the issuance of an interlocutory stop order by the Chairman of the Nevada
Board. Such approval does not constitute a finding, recommendation or approval
by the Nevada Commission or the Nevada Board as to the accuracy or adequacy of
the prospectus or the investment merits of the securities. Any representation
to the contrary is unlawful.
 
  Changes in control of the Company through merger, consolidation, stock or
asset acquisitions, management or consulting agreements, or any act or conduct
by a person whereby such person obtains control, may not occur without the
prior approval of the Nevada Commission. Entities seeking to acquire control
of a Registered Corporation must satisfy the Nevada Board and Nevada
Commission in a variety of stringent standards prior to assuming control of
such Registered Corporation. The Nevada Commission may also require
controlling stockholders, officers, directors and other persons having a
material relationship or involvement with the entity proposing to acquire
control, to be investigated and licensed as part of the approval process
relating to the transaction.
 
  The Nevada legislature has declared that some corporate acquisitions opposed
by management, repurchases of voting securities and corporate defense tactics
affecting Nevada gaming licensees, and Registered Corporations that are
affiliated with those operations, may be injurious to stable and productive
corporate gaming. The Nevada Commission has established a regulatory scheme to
ameliorate the potentially adverse effects of these business practices upon
Nevada's gaming industry and to further Nevada's policy to: (i) assure the
financial stability of corporate gaming operators and their affiliates; (ii)
preserve the beneficial aspects of conducting business in the corporate form;
and (iii) promote a neutral environment for the orderly governance of
corporate affairs. Approvals are, in certain circumstances, required from the
Nevada Commission before the Company can make exceptional repurchases of
voting securities above the current market price thereof and before a
corporate acquisition opposed by management can be consummated. The Nevada Act
also requires prior approval of a plan of recapitalization proposed by the
Company's Board of Directors in response to a tender offer made directly to
the Registered Corporation's stockholders for the purposes of acquiring
control of the Registered Corporation.
 
  Licensee fees and taxes, computed in various ways depending on the type of
gaming or activity involved, are payable to the State of Nevada and to the
counties and cities in which the Nevada licensee's respective operations are
conducted. Depending upon the particular fee or tax involved, these fees and
taxes are payable either monthly, quarterly or annually and are based upon
either (i) a percentage of the gross revenues received, (ii) the number of
gaming devices operated or (iii) the number of table games operated. A casino
entertainment tax is also paid by casino operations where entertainment is
furnished in connection with the selling of food or refreshments. Nevada
licensees that hold a license as an operator of a slot route, or a
manufacturer's or distributor's license, also pay certain fees and taxes to
the State of Nevada.
 
  Any person who is licensed, required to be licensed, registered, required to
be registered, or is under common control with such persons (collectively,
"Licensees"), and who proposes to become involved in a gaming venture outside
of Nevada is required to deposit with the Nevada Board, and thereafter
maintain, a revolving fund in the amount of $10,000 to pay the expenses of
investigation of the Nevada Board of their participation in such foreign
gaming. The revolving fund is subject to increase or decrease at the
discretion of the Nevada Commission. Thereafter, Licensees are required to
comply with certain reporting requirements imposed by the Nevada Act.
Licensees are also subject to disciplinary action by the Nevada Commission if
they knowingly violate any laws of the foreign jurisdiction pertaining to the
foreign gaming operation, fail to conduct the foreign gaming operation in
accordance with the standards of honesty and integrity required of Nevada
gaming operations, engage in activities that are harmful to the State of
Nevada or its ability to collect gaming taxes and fees, or
 
                                      33
<PAGE>
 
employ a person in the foreign operation who has been denied a license or
finding of suitability in Nevada on the ground of personal unsuitability.
 
EMPLOYEES
   
  As of September 30, 1997, the Company employed approximately 4,900
employees. None of the Company's employees are covered by collective
bargaining agreements. Certain local unions have announced an intention to
focus their organizational efforts on existing non-union hotel-casinos such as
the Rio. Recently these local unions have distributed literature to some of
the Company's employees. The Company believes that its relations with its
employees are good and that it provides competitive wages and benefits to its
employees. The Company, however, cannot predict the nature of any future union
activities.     
 
PROPERTIES
 
  The Company owns approximately 76 acres, consisting of the 45-acre site in
Las Vegas on which the Rio is located and 31 acres of land adjacent to the
current Rio site. The Company has purchase options on an additional seven
acres adjacent to the Rio site. With the exception of approximately 18 of the
recently acquired acres, all of the Company's acreage is subject to a deed of
trust securing the Rio Bank Loan, of which $70.0 million was outstanding at
September 30, 1997. The Company also owns approximately 64 acres on the
Boulder Highway southeast of Las Vegas (the "Old Vegas Site"). The Old Vegas
Site is being held for sale.
 
  The Company owns the Rio Secco Golf Club south of Las Vegas which is subject
to a deed of trust securing a loan from ORIX USA Corporation (the "Orix
Loan"). The maximum principal amount that may be borrowed under the Orix Loan
is $6.0 million of which $3.8 million was outstanding on September 30, 1997.
 
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
   
  Complaints were filed on May 10, 1994 in the United States District Court
for the Middle District of Florida (subsequently transferred to the United
States District Court for the District of Nevada, Southern Division), on April
26, 1994 in the United States District Court for the Middle District of
Florida (subsequently transferred to the United States District Court for the
District of Nevada, Southern Division) and September 26, 1995 in the United
States District Court for the District of Nevada, Southern Division.
Plaintiffs in these actions, each purportedly representing a class, filed
complaints against manufacturers, distributors and casino operators of video
poker and electronic slot machines, including the Company, alleging that the
defendants have engaged in a course of conduct intended to induce persons to
play such games based on a false belief concerning how the gaming machines
operate, as well as the extent to which there is an opportunity to win on a
given play. The complaints charge defendants with violations of the Racketeer
Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, as well as claims of common law
fraud, unjust enrichment and negligent misrepresentation, and seek damages in
excess of $1 billion without any substantiation of that amount. The Company
filed motions to dismiss the complaints. The Nevada District Court dismissed
the complaints, granting leave to plaintiffs to re-file, and denying as moot
all other pending motions, including those of the Company. The plaintiffs
filed an amended complaint on or about May 31, 1996. The Company renewed its
motions to dismiss based on abstention and related doctrines, and joined in
the motions to dismiss filed by other defendants, which were based on defects
in the pleadings. The Nevada District Court consolidated the actions (and one
other action in which the Company is not a named defendant), ordered
plaintiffs to file a consolidated amended complaint on or before February 14,
1997, and ordered all defense motions, including those of the Company,
withdrawn without prejudice. The parties have established a steering committee
to address motion practice, scheduling and discovery matters. Plaintiffs filed
their consolidated amended complaint on February 14, 1997. The defendants,
including the Company, filed consolidated motions to dismiss the consolidated
amended complaints. The motions to dismiss are based on defects in the
pleadings, failure to state a claim, and abstention and related doctrines.
Management believes that the substantive allegations in the complaints are
without merit and intends vigorously to defend the allegations.     
 
                                      34
<PAGE>
 
   
  On May 5, 1995, a purported class action lawsuit was filed in the United
States District Court for the District of New Jersey (Camden Division). The
Company, together with 76 other casino operators and others, is named as a
defendant in the action. The action, purportedly brought on behalf of "card
counters," alleges that the casino operators exclude "card counters" from play
and share information about "card counters." The action is based on alleged
violations of federal antitrust law, the Fair Credit Reporting Act and various
state consumer protection laws. The amount of damages sought by the plaintiffs
in the action is unspecified. The Company has made a motion to dismiss the
complaint. The court has not yet ruled on the motion. Management believes that
the complaint is without merit and the Company intends vigorously to defend
the allegations.     
   
  On March 27, 1996, a complaint in a purported class action lawsuit was filed
in the Superior Court of California, County of San Diego, against a number of
gaming entities, including the Company. The complaint, which is primarily a
narrower version of the other class action suits filed against the gaming
industry, alleges that the defendants have engaged in a course of conduct
intended to induce persons to play gaming devices based on a false belief
concerning how the gaming machines operate, as well as the extent to which
there is an opportunity to win on a given play. The Company joined in an
attempt to remove the case to federal court which was not successful. The
Company filed a motion to dismiss the complaint for lack of personal
jurisdiction. The motion is pending. In the interim, several defendants which
did not have jurisdiction motions filed a motion to demur, arguing that the
action should not be considered by the California court because the matter is
relegated to the Nevada regulatory system pursuant to the Commerce Clause of
the U.S. Constitution. After a hearing conducted on July 11, 1997, the court
sustained the demur without leave to amend. Although the Company is still
technically a defendant in the case, management believes that the court's
ruling will be applied to all defendants and the Company will be dismissed
from the action. In addition, management believes that the complaint is
without merit and the Company intends vigorously to defend the allegations.
       
  On December 27, 1996, a purported stockholder derivative action was filed in
the United States District Court for the District of Nevada, against the
Company as a nominal defendant, five of the Company's directors, Marnell
Corrao and Marnell Chartered. The complaint alleges that pursuant to
construction contracts and architectural contracts with Marnell Corrao and
Marnell Chartered, respectively, the Company paid unfair amounts in exchange
for the services provided. The complaint alleges breach of fiduciary duty by
each of the director defendants and seeks rescission of the contracts, damages
to compensate the Company to the extent that contract amounts are unfair to
the Company, and injunctive relief prohibiting the Company from entering into
similar contracts with Mr. Marnell or entities which he controls. On January
27, 1997, the Company and the director defendants filed a motion to dismiss
and a joinder in the Company's motion to dismiss. On April 21, 1997, the court
entered an order denying the motion to dismiss of the Company and the
individual directors, and granting the motion to dismiss of Marnell Corrao and
Marnell Chartered. The Company and the remaining defendants have filed an
answer to the complaint and discovery proceedings have not yet begun.     
   
  On June 10, 1997, the Company filed a complaint in the United States
District Court for the District of Nevada entitled Rio Properties Inc. v.
Robert P. Baker. The complaint seeks a declaration from the court that the use
of the term "suite" is not misleading under either the federal trademark act
or California's advertising code. Subsequently, on July 16, 1997, Mr. Baker
filed a related action in California state court entitled Robert P. Baker v.
Rio Properties, Inc., et al., which was removed to federal court in
California. Mr. Baker alleges that the use of the term "all-suite" in
advertising directed into California is misleading and violates California law
on the grounds that the Rio's rooms are not partitioned. Mr. Baker
unsuccessfully sought to have the Nevada action dismissed in favor of the
California litigation. The parties have now stipulated to have the California
action dismissed and proceed in the Nevada court. Mr. Baker filed a
counterclaim in the Nevada action seeking compensatory damages under
California's advertising code for all California residents who have stayed in
any of the Rio's accommodations, injunctive relief prohibiting use of the term
"suite" by Rio to describe its accommodations and other relief deemed
appropriate by the court. Management believes Mr. Baker's claims are without
merit and the Company will vigorously pursue the declaratory relief action and
defend the counterclaim.     
 
                                      35
<PAGE>
 
                             CERTAIN TRANSACTIONS
   
  General. Anthony A. Marnell II, Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive
Officer, and largest stockholder of the Company, is the controlling
stockholder and Chief Executive Officer of Marnell Chartered, Austi
International, Inc. ("Austi") and Marnell Corrao Associates ("Marnell
Corrao"), and Mr. Marnell holds a majority ownership interest in MarCor
Limited Partnership ("MCLP"), a limited partnership engaged in real estate
development. A family corporation controlled by James A. Barrett, Jr.,
President and a director of the Company, is the general partner of MCLP, and
Mr. Barrett is a director of Austi and Marnell Corrao.     
   
  Consulting, Construction, and Architectural Services to and by
Affiliates. Marnell Chartered, Austi and Marnell Corrao have provided design
and construction services for various Rio expansion projects and the Rio Secco
Golf Club. The construction contract for the third Rio tower, completed in
March 1995, was for an amount not to exceed $60,511,775; the contract for an
addition to the second Rio tower, completed in December 1995, was for an
amount not to exceed $18,117,258; the contract for the fourth Rio tower
completed in May 1997, was for an amount not to exceed $180,609,117; and a
contract for completion of the Rio Secco Golf Club was for an amount of
approximately $5,700,000. In the nine months ended September 30, 1997, the
Company paid a total of $50,100,507 in connection with these and other
construction contracts. Design contracts for these same projects, not
including the Rio Secco Golf Club, were in amounts not to exceed $2,496,836,
$731,000, and $7,051,558, respectively. In the nine months ended September 30,
1997, the Company paid a total of $1,303,149 in connection with these and
other design projects.     
 
  Services Provided by Related Parties. Entities in which John A. Stuart, a
director of the Company, is a principal stockholder and executive officer
earned commissions totaling $157,138 for the nine months ended September 30,
1997, arising out of the acquisition and administration of various insurance
coverages by the Company.
 
  Certain Transactions with Marnell Corrao. The Company retained Marnell
Corrao to provide real estate brokerage and administration services in
connection with the acquisition of properties adjacent to the Rio, 31 acres of
which have been purchased as of September 30, 1997 with an additional seven
acres subject to purchase options. In addition, in 1997 Marnell Corrao rented
a site centrally located on the Las Vegas Strip to the Company for a
transportation center. Fees paid to Marnell Corrao, including reimbursement of
expenses and real estate brokerage commissions and rent, were $826,618 in the
nine months ended September 30, 1997. Expenses were reimbursed at cost and
management believes the brokerage commissions and rent were on terms at least
as favorable as would have been obtained from non-affiliated parties.
 
  Indemnification of Directors and Officers. Section 78.751 of Chapter 78 of
the Nevada Revised Statutes, Article XII of the Company's Articles of
Incorporation and Article XIII of the Company's Bylaws contain provisions for
indemnification of officers, directors, employees and agents of the Company.
The Articles of Incorporation provision requires the Company to indemnify such
persons to the full extent permitted by Nevada Law. Each person will be
indemnified in any proceeding if he acted in good faith and in a manner which
he reasonably believed to be in, or not opposed to, the best interest of the
Company. Indemnification would cover expenses, including attorneys' fees,
judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement.
 
  The Company's Articles of Incorporation also provide that the Company's
Board of Directors may cause the Company to purchase and maintain insurance on
behalf of any present or past director or officer insuring against any
liability asserted against such person incurred in the capacity of director or
officer or arising out of such status, whether or not the corporation would
have the power to indemnify such person. The Company presently has directors'
and officers' liability insurance in effect.
 
                                      36
<PAGE>
 
  Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act
may be permitted to directors, officers or persons controlling the Company
pursuant to the foregoing provisions, the Company has been informed that in
the opinion of the SEC such indemnification is against public policy as
expressed in the Securities Act and is therefore unenforceable.
 
  Transaction Review. The Company believes that the transactions described
above are on terms at least as favorable as would have been obtainable from
non-related parties. The Company requires that the Audit Committee of the
Board of Directors review related party transactions.
 
  For further information concerning related party transactions, see the
Company's proxy statement in connection with the 1997 Annual Meeting of the
Company's Stockholders.
 
                                      37
<PAGE>
 
                         SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN
                       BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
 
  The following table sets forth certain information regarding beneficial
ownership of the Company's Common Stock as of September 30, 1997 (i) by each
person (or a group of affiliated persons) who is known by the Company to own
beneficially more than five percent of the Company's Common Stock, (ii) by the
executive officers named in the Summary Compensation Table contained in the
Company's Proxy Statement prepared in connection with the 1997 Annual Meeting
of the Company's stockholders and (iii) by all directors and executive
officers as a group.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                             SHARES
                                          BENEFICIALLY            SHARES
                                         OWNED PRIOR TO        BENEFICIALLY
                                              THIS           OWNED AFTER THIS
                                         OFFERING(1)(2)          OFFERING
                                        -------------------- --------------------
 NAME AND ADDRESS OF BENEFICIAL OWNER    AMOUNT      PERCENT  AMOUNT      PERCENT
 ------------------------------------   ---------    ------- ---------    -------
 <S>                                    <C>          <C>     <C>          <C>
 Anthony A. Marnell II................  5,135,618(3)  23.4%  5,135,618(3)  20.6%
 4495 S. Polaris Avenue
 Las Vegas, Nevada 89103
 James A. Barrett, Jr. ...............  1,952,833(4)   9.1%  1,952,833(4)   8.0%
 4495 S. Polaris Avenue
 Las Vegas, Nevada 89103
 The Capital Group Companies, Inc. ...  1,582,700(5)   7.4%  1,582,700(5)   6.5%
 333 South Hope Street
 Los Angeles, California 90071
 Private Capital Management, Inc. ....  1,474,500      6.9%  1,474,500      6.0%
 3003 Tamiami Trail North
 Naples, Florida 34103
 Chilton Investment Co., Inc. ........  1,402,600(6)   6.6%  1,402,600(6)   5.7%
 320 Park Avenue, 22nd Floor
 New York, New York 10022
 All Executive Officers and Directors
  as a group
  (8 persons).........................  5,580,706(7)  25.0%  5,580,706(7)  22.1%
</TABLE>
- --------
(1) Unless otherwise noted, the persons identified in this table have sole
    voting and sole investment power with regard to the shares beneficially
    owned by them.
 
(2) Includes shares issuable upon exercise of options which are exercisable
    within 60 days of the stated date.
 
(3) Includes options to purchase 488,000 shares issuable to Mr. Marnell under
    the NSOP, which are not listed below. Mr. Marnell beneficially owns the
    following shares which are held of record by the following entities:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   COMMON STOCK
                                                                   ------------
   <S>                                                             <C>
   Anthony A. Marnell II, IRA....................................      15,500
   Certain trusts established for the benefit of Mr. Marnell's
    family (the "Family Trusts")(a)..............................     908,515
   Austi(b)......................................................   1,893,051
   MarCor Limited Partnership ("MCLP")(c)........................   1,828,245
   Shares held by Mr. Marnell's spouse and children..............       2,307
                                                                    ---------
      Total Shares...............................................   4,647,618
</TABLE>
  --------
  (a) Mr. Marnell holds sole voting and investment power over the shares held
      by the Family Trusts.
 
  (b) Mr. Marnell owns 100% of Austi through the Marnell Trust.
 
  (c) Mr. Marnell owns 84.56% of MCLP, a limited partnership. James A.
      Barrett, Jr. controls the remaining 15.44% of MCLP including, through a
      family corporation, the 4.25% general partner interest.
 
(4) Includes options to purchase 103,000 shares issuable to Mr. Barrett under
    the NSOP. Of the shares currently held by Mr. Barrett, 2,000 shares are
    held in his individual retirement account; 6,538 shares are held in
    certain of his spouse's and children's accounts; 13,000 shares are held by
    the Barrett Family Revocable Living Trust through a family corporation and
    50 shares are held directly by the trust; and 1,828,245 shares are held by
    MCLP. Mr. Barrett's ownership in MCLP is
 
                                      38
<PAGE>
 
    15.44%; however, all of the shares of the Company's Common Stock held by
    MCLP are being reported herein as beneficially owned by Mr. Barrett as a
    result of his family corporation's position as sole general partner of MCLP.
    Control of MCLP remains with Mr. Marnell as a result of his ability to
    remove the general partner. Not included are 3,000 shares held in certain
    trusts for which Mr. Barrett is sole trustee.
    
(5) The Capital Group Companies, Inc. reported on Schedule 13G (Amendment No.
    1), dated February 12, 1997, that it had sole voting power with respect to
    200,000 shares, and, through an operating subsidiary, Capital Research and
    Management Company, had sole dispositive power with respect to 1,382,700.
    Sole voting power with respect to the same 1,382,700 shares is held by
    SMALLCAP World Fund, Inc. which is advised by Capital Research and
    Management Company.
   
(6) Chilton Investment Co., Inc. reported on Schedule 13D (Amendment No. 1),
    dated August 28, 1997, that it had sole voting power with respect to 24,643
    shares and sole dispositive power with respect to 1,377,957 shares. Sole
    voting power with respect to the same 1,377,957 shares is held by Richard
    L. Chilton, Jr.     
 
(7) Includes options to purchase 591,000 shares under the NSOP, options to
    purchase 208,000 shares under the Company's 1995 Long-Term Incentive Plan
    ("Incentive Plan"), and options to purchase 96,000 shares under the
    Directors' Plan.
 
                                       39
<PAGE>
 
                                 UNDERWRITING
   
  Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in an underwriting agreement
(the "Underwriting Agreement") between the Company, Salomon Brothers Inc,
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, NationsBanc Montgomery
Securities, Inc. and Smith Barney Inc., as representatives of the several
underwriters (the "Representatives"), the Company has agreed to sell to each
of the Underwriters named below (the "Underwriters"), and each such
Underwriter has severally agreed to purchase from the Company, the aggregate
number of Shares set forth opposite its name below:     
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                                     NUMBER OF
                                                                     SHARES OF
     UNDERWRITERS                                                   COMMON STOCK
     ------------                                                   ------------
     <S>                                                            <C>
     Salomon Brothers Inc.........................................
     Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith
          Incorporated............................................
     NationsBanc Montgomery Securities, Inc.......................
     Smith Barney Inc.............................................
                                                                     ---------
       Total......................................................   3,000,000
                                                                     =========
</TABLE>    
 
  In the Underwriting Agreement, the several Underwriters have agreed, subject
to the terms and conditions set forth therein, to purchase all of the above-
listed shares if any such shares are purchased. In the event of a default by
any Underwriter, the Underwriting Agreement provides that, in certain
circumstances, the purchase commitments of the nondefaulting Underwriters may
be increased or the Underwriting Agreement may be terminated.
 
  The Company has been advised by the Representatives that the several
Underwriters propose initially to offer the above-listed shares to the public
at the Price to Public set forth on the cover page of this Prospectus and to
certain dealers at such price less a concession not in excess of $    per
share. The Underwriters may allow, and such dealers may reallow, a concession
not in excess of $    per share to other dealers. After the initial public
offering, the public offering price and such concession may be changed.
 
  The Company has granted the Underwriters an option, exercisable during the
30-day period after the date of this Prospectus, to purchase up to 450,000
additional shares of Common Stock at the same price per share as the initial
3,000,000 shares of Common Stock to be purchased by the several Underwriters.
The Underwriters may exercise such option only to cover over-allotments, if
any, incurred in connection with the sale of the shares of Common Stock made
hereby. To the extent that the Underwriters exercise such option, each
Underwriter will have a firm commitment, subject to certain conditions, to
purchase the same proportion of the additional shares as the number of shares
of Common Stock set forth opposite such Underwriter's name in the table above
bears to the total number of shares of Common Stock initially offered by the
Underwriters.
 
  The Company has agreed with the Underwriters not to offer, sell or contract
to sell, or otherwise directly or indirectly dispose of (whether by actual
disposition or effective economic disposition due to cash settlement or
otherwise), or announce the offering of, any other shares of Common Stock or
any securities convertible into, or exchangeable for, shares of Common Stock,
for a period of 120 days following the date of this Prospectus without the
prior written consent of Salomon Brothers Inc. The Company may, however, issue
Common Stock upon the exercise of options outstanding on the date of this
Prospectus.
 
 
                                      40
<PAGE>
 
  The directors and executive officers of the Company have agreed with the
Underwriters not to offer, sell, contract to sell, pledge or otherwise dispose
of, or file a registration statement with the Commission in respect of, or
establish or increase a put equivalent position or liquidate or decrease a
call equivalent position within the meaning of Section 16 of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act") with respect to, any shares of
capital stock of the Company or any securities convertible into or exercisable
or exchangeable for such capital stock, or publicly announce an intention to
effect any such transaction, for a period of 120 days following the date of
this Prospectus without the prior written consent of Salomon Brothers Inc,
other than (i) any shares of Common Stock offered hereby, (ii) any option or
warrant or the conversion of a security outstanding on the date of, and
described in, this Prospectus and (iii) shares of Common Stock disposed of as
bona fide gifts approved by Salomon Brothers Inc.
 
  In connection with the offering made hereby, certain Underwriters and
selling group members and their respective affiliates may engage in
transactions that stabilize, maintain or otherwise affect the market price of
the Common Stock. Such transactions may include stabilization transactions
effected in accordance with Rule 104 of Regulation M under the Exchange Act,
pursuant to which such persons may bid for or purchase Common Stock for the
purpose of stabilizing its market price. The Underwriters also may create a
short position for the account of the Underwriters by selling more Common
Stock in connection with the offering made hereby than they are committed to
purchase from the Company, and in such case may purchase Common Stock in the
open market following completion of the Offering made hereby to cover all or a
portion of such short position. The Underwriters may also cover all or a
portion of such short position, up to 450,000 shares of Common Stock, by
exercising the Underwriters' over-allotment option referred to above. In
addition, Salomon Brothers Inc, on behalf of the Underwriters, may impose
"penalty bids" under contractual arrangements with the Underwriters whereby it
may reclaim from an Underwriter (or dealer participating in the offering made
hereby), for the account of other Underwriters, the selling concession with
respect to Common Stock that is distributed in the offering made hereby but
subsequently purchased for the account of the Underwriters in the open market.
Any of the transactions described in this paragraph may result in the
maintenance of the price of the Common Stock at a level above that which might
otherwise prevail in the open market. None of the transactions described in
this paragraph is required, and, if they are undertaken, they may be
discontinued at any time.
 
  The Underwriting Agreement provides that the Company will indemnify the
several Underwriters against certain liabilities and expenses, including
liabilities under the Securities Act, or contribute to payments that the
Underwriters may be required to make in respect thereof.
 
                                 LEGAL MATTERS
 
  The validity of the shares of Common Stock being offered hereby and certain
other legal matters in connection with this Offering will be passed upon for
the Company by Kummer Kaempfer Bonner & Renshaw, Las Vegas, Nevada. Certain
legal matters in connections with this Offering will be passed upon for the
Underwriters by Cleary, Gottlieb, Steen & Hamilton, New York, New York.
 
                                    EXPERTS
 
  The Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company as of and for the years
ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994, appearing in this Prospectus, have
been audited by Arthur Andersen LLP, independent certified public accountants,
as stated in their report appearing herein.
 
                                      41
<PAGE>
 
                   RIO HOTEL & CASINO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                   INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                           PAGE
                                                                           ----
<S>                                                                        <C>
Report of Independent Public Accountants.................................  F-2
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 1996 and 1995 and
 September 30, 1997 (Unaudited)..........................................  F-3
Consolidated Statements of Income for the Years Ended December 31, 1996,
 1995 and 1994, and for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 1997 and 1996
 (Unaudited).............................................................  F-4
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31,
 1996, 1995 and 1994, and for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 1997
 and 1996 (Unaudited)....................................................  F-5
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity for the Years Ended
 December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994 and for the Nine Months Ended September
 30, 1997 (Unaudited)....................................................  F-6
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements...............................  F-7
</TABLE>
 
                                      F-1
<PAGE>
 
                   REPORT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
 
To the Board of Directors of
 Rio Hotel & Casino, Inc.:
 
  We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of RIO HOTEL &
CASINO, INC. (a Nevada corporation) and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1996
and 1995 and the related consolidated statements of income, stockholders'
equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December
31, 1996. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's
management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial
statements based on our audits.
 
  We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to
obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of
material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence
supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit
also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant
estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial
statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis
for our opinion.
 
  In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly,
in all material respects, the financial position of Rio Hotel & Casino, Inc.
and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1996 and 1995, and the results of their
operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period
ended December 31, 1996, in conformity with generally accepted accounting
principles.
 
                                          Arthur Andersen LLP
 
Las Vegas, Nevada
February 7, 1997
 
                                      F-2
<PAGE>
 
                   RIO HOTEL & CASINO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                          CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
 
                                     ASSETS
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                           DECEMBER 31,
                                      SEPTEMBER 30,  --------------------------
                                          1997           1996          1995
                                      -------------  ------------  ------------
                                       (UNAUDITED)
<S>                                   <C>            <C>           <C>
Current assets:
  Cash and cash equivalents.......... $ 13,762,819   $ 10,623,094  $ 19,992,695
  Accounts receivable, net...........   22,552,463      8,690,105     4,313,442
  Federal income taxes receivable....          --       1,147,106       190,914
  Inventories........................    4,739,936      3,871,345     1,794,850
  Prepaid expenses and other current
   assets............................    7,429,651      5,534,895     4,638,090
                                      ------------   ------------  ------------
  Total current assets...............   48,484,869     29,866,545    30,929,991
                                      ------------   ------------  ------------
Property and equipment:
  Land and improvements..............   86,047,368     51,311,851    37,509,960
  Building and improvements..........  406,396,476    196,918,053   192,818,896
  Equipment, furniture and
   improvements......................   79,827,477     72,052,458    68,500,267
  Less: accumulated depreciation.....  (76,326,969)   (60,501,211)  (46,707,850)
                                      ------------   ------------  ------------
                                       495,944,352    259,781,151   252,121,273
  Construction in progress...........      265,978    190,210,277    17,173,483
                                      ------------   ------------  ------------
    Net property and equipment.......  496,210,330    449,991,428   269,294,756
                                      ------------   ------------  ------------
Other assets, net....................   14,094,004     14,691,613     8,566,847
                                      ------------   ------------  ------------
                                      $558,789,203   $494,549,586  $308,791,594
                                      ============   ============  ============
                    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
  Current maturities of long-term
   debt.............................. $  1,265,510   $    352,239  $     25,252
  Accounts payable...................    7,308,067      5,854,830     4,562,132
  Accrued expenses...................   24,771,022     11,967,407     9,136,226
  Accounts payable--related party....    2,121,363     19,604,470     6,641,506
  Accrued interest...................    8,392,763      7,072,067     4,726,915
                                      ------------   ------------  ------------
    Total current liabilities........   43,858,725     44,851,013    25,092,031
                                      ------------   ------------  ------------
Non-current liabilities:
  Long-term debt, less current
   maturities........................  304,013,531    253,949,283   110,176,765
  Deferred income taxes..............   14,773,002     13,874,060    10,634,898
                                      ------------   ------------  ------------
    Total non-current liabilities....  318,786,533    267,823,343   120,811,663
                                      ------------   ------------  ------------
    Total liabilities................  362,645,258    312,674,356   145,903,694
                                      ------------   ------------  ------------
Stockholders' equity:
  Common stock, $0.01 par value;
   100,000,000 shares authorized;
   21,412,841; 21,170,441 and
   21,139,146 shares issued and
   outstanding.......................      214,129        211,705       211,392
  Additional paid-in capital.........  115,439,296    113,140,798   113,520,158
  Retained earnings..................   80,490,520     68,522,727    49,156,350
                                      ------------   ------------  ------------
    Total stockholders' equity.......  196,143,945    181,875,230   162,887,900
                                      ------------   ------------  ------------
                                      $558,789,203   $494,549,586  $308,791,594
                                      ============   ============  ============
</TABLE>    
           
        See Accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements     
 
                                      F-3
<PAGE>
 
                   RIO HOTEL & CASINO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                       CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                              NINE MONTHS ENDED
                                SEPTEMBER 30,              FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                          --------------------------  ---------------------------------------------
                              1997          1996          1996          1995          1994
                          ------------  ------------  ------------  ------------  ------------
                          (UNAUDITED)    (UNAUDITED)
<S>                       <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>
Revenues:
  Casino................  $141,215,071  $ 83,082,679  $112,458,824  $105,546,531  $ 87,164,738
  Room..................    50,398,228    30,112,121    41,346,275    33,826,095    19,261,477
  Food and beverage.....    83,048,512    52,992,883    70,789,839    60,009,994    47,648,778
  Other.................    18,694,761    11,446,560    15,369,085    12,386,275     7,235,891
  Casino promotional
   allowances...........   (22,663,473)  (14,546,973)  (20,382,531)  (18,810,726)  (14,886,794)
                          ------------  ------------  ------------  ------------  ------------
                           270,693,099   163,087,270   219,581,492   192,958,169   146,424,090
                          ------------  ------------  ------------  ------------  ------------
Expenses:
  Casino................    74,432,544    40,005,532    56,825,539    48,071,953    38,696,281
  Room..................    14,996,447     9,876,771    13,134,549    10,413,883     6,631,787
  Food and beverage.....    64,025,064    40,615,871    54,899,850    48,257,881    38,795,127
  Other.................    11,253,083     5,862,380     7,496,518     6,646,950     4,959,250
  Selling, general and
   administrative.......    38,062,029    23,539,507    31,610,710    27,777,901    20,550,142
  Depreciation and
   amortization.........    18,677,833    12,538,158    17,620,555    14,231,307    10,863,844
  Preopening costs......    11,200,000           --            --            --            --
                          ------------  ------------  ------------  ------------  ------------
                           232,647,000   132,438,219   181,587,721   155,399,875   120,496,431
                          ------------  ------------  ------------  ------------  ------------
Operating profit........    38,046,099    30,649,051    37,993,771    37,558,294    25,927,659
                          ------------  ------------  ------------  ------------  ------------
Other income (expense):
  Interest expense......   (19,199,170)   (7,112,247)   (8,215,285)   (8,105,680)   (1,923,237)
  Other income..........           --            --            --            --      1,140,010
                          ------------  ------------  ------------  ------------  ------------
                           (19,199,170)   (7,112,247)   (8,215,285)   (8,105,680)     (783,227)
                          ------------  ------------  ------------  ------------  ------------
Income before income tax
 provision..............    18,846,929    23,536,804    29,778,486    29,452,614    25,144,432
Income tax provision....    (6,879,136)   (8,469,211)  (10,412,109)  (10,707,135)   (9,178,023)
                          ------------  ------------  ------------  ------------  ------------
    Net income..........  $ 11,967,793  $ 15,067,593  $ 19,366,377  $ 18,745,479  $ 15,966,409
                          ============  ============  ============  ============  ============
Earnings per common
 share:
    Net income..........  $       0.55  $       0.70  $       0.90  $       0.87  $       0.74
                          ============  ============  ============  ============  ============
  Weighted average
   number of common
   shares outstanding...    21,574,545    21,549,457    21,528,006    21,591,325    21,720,121
                          ============  ============  ============  ============  ============
</TABLE>    
           
        See Accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements     
 
                                      F-4
<PAGE>
 
                   RIO HOTEL & CASINO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                         NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER
                                     30,                   FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                         ----------------------------  ------------------------------------------
                             1997           1996           1996           1995           1994
                         -------------  -------------  -------------  -------------  ------------
                          (UNAUDITED)    (UNAUDITED)
<S>                      <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>
Cash flows from
 operating activities:
 Net income............. $  11,967,793  $  15,067,593  $  19,366,377  $  18,745,479  $ 15,966,409
 Adjustments to
  reconcile net income
  to net cash provided
  by operating
  activities:
   Compensation expense
    recognized from
    stock option grant..        86,560         79,409        108,360         87,627       141,975
   Depreciation and
    amortization........    18,677,833     12,538,163     17,620,555     14,231,307    10,863,844
   Provision for
    uncollectible
    accounts............    11,603,861         63,872        292,138      1,002,463       512,999
   Deferred income
    taxes...............     1,289,832        742,490      2,198,017      3,122,621     1,693,101
   (Increase) decrease
    in assets:
     Accounts
      receivable........   (25,466,219)    (1,428,276)    (4,668,801)    (2,026,109)     (790,677)
     Inventories........      (868,591)    (1,936,951)    (2,076,495)      (416,252)     (510,231)
     Prepaid expenses
      and other current
      assets............    (1,364,247)        67,453     (1,106,609)       659,627      (827,476)
     Other, net.........     1,029,446        454,061     (6,311,840)      (843,335)   (2,881,750)
   Increase (decrease)
    in liabilities:
     Accounts payable...     1,453,236       (542,729)     1,292,699      2,136,487      (522,443)
     Accrued federal
      income tax
      payable...........           --             --             --             --        546,142
     Accrued expenses...    12,803,614      4,964,299      2,831,182      1,305,520     1,306,086
     Accrued interest...     1,320,696     (1,438,175)     2,345,152      4,375,051       297,896
                         -------------  -------------  -------------  -------------  ------------
   Net cash provided by
    operating
    activities..........    32,533,814     28,631,209     31,890,735     42,380,486    25,795,875
                         -------------  -------------  -------------  -------------  ------------
Cash flows from
 investing activities:
 Purchase of equipment,
  furniture and
  improvements..........   (54,506,586)  (112,036,884)  (169,539,111)   (63,326,652)  (66,053,542)
 Purchase of land and
  improvements..........   (22,449,129)   (11,500,910)   (13,522,603)   (12,781,239)          --
                         -------------  -------------  -------------  -------------  ------------
   Net cash used in
    investing
    activities..........   (76,955,715)  (123,537,794)  (183,061,714)   (76,107,891)  (66,053,542)
                         -------------  -------------  -------------  -------------  ------------
Cash flows from
 financing activities:
 Proceeds from
  borrowings............    82,200,000     86,000,000    143,000,000     10,000,000    60,014,175
 Net proceeds from
  common stock
  issuance..............     1,292,963      1,146,710      1,162,910        969,251     1,022,700
 Net proceeds from
  issuance of senior
  subordinated notes....   121,562,500            --             --      96,750,244           --
 Repurchase of common
  stock.................           --      (1,209,850)    (2,220,600)    (5,386,225)          --
 Costs paid in
  connection with prior
  common stock offering
  and stock exchange
  rights................           --             --             --             --       (119,529)
 Payments on notes and
  loans payable.........  (157,493,837)       (32,527)      (140,932)  (125,039,428)      (18,358)
                         -------------  -------------  -------------  -------------  ------------
   Net cash (used in)
    provided by
    financing
    activities..........    47,561,626     85,904,333    141,801,378    (22,706,158)   60,898,988
                         -------------  -------------  -------------  -------------  ------------
   Net increase
    (decrease) in cash
    and cash
    equivalents.........     3,139,725     (9,002,252)    (9,369,601)   (56,433,563)   20,641,321
Cash and cash
 equivalents, beginning
 of period..............    10,623,094     19,992,695     19,992,695     76,426,258    55,784,937
                         -------------  -------------  -------------  -------------  ------------
Cash and cash
 equivalents, end of
 period................. $  13,762,819  $  10,990,443  $  10,623,094  $  19,992,695  $ 76,426,258
                         =============  =============  =============  =============  ============
</TABLE>    
           
        See Accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements     
 
                                      F-5
<PAGE>
 
                   RIO HOTEL & CASINO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                             COMMON STOCK
                          --------------------                                  TOTAL
                          NUMBER OF               ADDITIONAL     RETAINED   STOCKHOLDERS'
                            SHARES     AMOUNT   PAID-IN CAPITAL  EARNINGS      EQUITY
                          ----------  --------  --------------- ----------- -------------
<S>                       <C>         <C>       <C>             <C>         <C>
Balance, December 31,
 1993...................  21,147,796  $211,478   $115,182,541   $14,444,462 $129,838,481
Tax benefit of stock
 options exercised......                              886,132                    886,132
Exercise of stock
 options................     223,550     2,236      1,003,934                  1,006,170
Net income for the year.                                         15,966,409   15,966,409
Compensation expense for
 stock options granted
 in 1993................                              141,975                    141,975
                          ----------  --------   ------------   ----------- ------------
Balance, December 31,
 1994...................  21,371,346   213,714    117,214,582    30,410,871  147,839,167
Tax benefit of stock
 options exercised......                              632,601                    632,601
Exercise of stock
 options................     198,300     1,983        965,467                    967,450
Repurchase of common
 stock..................    (430,500)   (4,305)    (5,381,920)                (5,386,225)
Common stock offering
 costs..................                                1,801                      1,801
Net income for the year.                                         18,745,479   18,745,479
Compensation expense for
 stock options granted
 in 1993................                               87,627                     87,627
                          ----------  --------   ------------   ----------- ------------
Balance, December 31,
 1995...................  21,139,146   211,392    113,520,158    49,156,350  162,887,900
Tax benefit of stock
 options exercised......                              570,283                    570,283
Exercise of stock
 options................     175,795     1,758      1,161,152                  1,162,910
Repurchase of common
 stock..................    (144,500)   (1,445)    (2,219,155)                (2,220,600)
Net income for the year.                                         19,366,377   19,366,377
Compensation expense for
 stock options granted
 in 1993................                              108,360                    108,360
                          ----------  --------   ------------   ----------- ------------
Balance, December 31,
 1996...................  21,170,441   211,705    113,140,798    68,522,727  181,875,230
Tax benefit of stock
 options exercised......                              921,399                    921,399
Exercise of stock
 options................     242,400     2,424      1,290,539                  1,292,963
Repurchase of common
 stock..................
Net income for the nine
 months.................                                         11,967,793   11,967,793
Compensation expense for
 stock options granted..                               86,560                     86,560
                          ----------  --------   ------------   ----------- ------------
Balance, September 30,
 1997...................  21,412,841  $214,129   $115,439,296   $80,490,520 $196,143,945
                          ==========  ========   ============   =========== ============
</TABLE>    
           
        See Accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements     
 
                                      F-6
<PAGE>
 
                   RIO HOTEL & CASINO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                  NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND RELATED MATTERS
 
 Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation
 
  The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Rio Hotel &
Casino, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiaries: Rio Properties, Inc. ("Rio
Properties," which owns and operates the Rio Suite Hotel & Casino (the "Rio")
in Las Vegas, Nevada); Rio Development Company, Inc. (formerly MarCor
Development Company, Inc.); Rio Resort Properties, Inc. (formerly MarCor
Resort Properties, Inc.); Rio Leasing, Inc.; and Rio Properties' wholly owned
subsidiaries, Cinderlane, Inc. and HLG, Inc.
 
  All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated
in consolidation.
 
  All amounts related to September 30, 1997 and 1996 are unaudited.
 
 Reclassifications
 
  The financial statements for prior periods reflect certain
reclassifications, which have no effect on net income, to conform with
classifications adopted in a subsequent year.
 
 Use of Estimates
 
  The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles 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 period. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
 
 Capitalization of Interest
 
  The Company capitalizes interest on funds disbursed during the active
construction phases of real estate development and other major projects.
Interest capitalized during the years ended 1996, 1995, and 1994 was $8.7
million, $0.9 million and $0.6 million, respectively. For the nine month
periods ended September 30, 1997 and 1996, capitalized interest was $3.8
million and $4.0 million, respectively.
 
 Property and Equipment
 
  Land and improvements, building and improvements, and equipment, furniture
and improvements are stated at cost.
 
  Depreciation and amortization of property and equipment is computed using
the straight-line method predominantly over the following estimated useful
lives:
 
<TABLE>
     <S>                                                           <C>
     Building and improvements.................................... 7 to 45 years
     Equipment, furniture and improvements........................ 3 to 15 years
</TABLE>
 
  Costs of major improvements are capitalized, while costs of normal repairs
and maintenance are charged to expense as incurred.
 
 Preopening Costs
 
  Preopening costs consist principally of direct incremental personnel costs
and advertising and marketing expenses. These costs are capitalized prior to
the opening of the specific project and are
 
                                      F-7
<PAGE>
 
                   RIO HOTEL & CASINO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
charged to expense at the commencement of operations. At December 31, 1996,
included in other non-current assets is $5.2 million in preopening costs. A
total of $11.2 million of preopening costs was expensed in the first quarter
of 1997.
 
 Impairment
 
  Management reviews existing information and analyses of the Company and its
operations as well as indicators of impairment (such as dramatic changes in
the manner in which an asset is used or forecasts showing lack of long-term
profitability) to determine whether an impairment may exist. The Company
considers relevant cash flow and profitability information, including
estimated future operating results, trends and other available information, in
assessing whether the carrying value of its fixed assets can be recovered.
Upon a determination that the carrying value of an asset will not be recovered
from its future undiscounted cash flows, the carrying value of that asset
would be considered impaired and will be reduced by a charge to operations in
the amount of the impairment. Impairment is measured as any deficiency in
estimated discounted future cash flows of the fixed assets to recover the
carrying value related to those assets.
 
 Inventories
 
  Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined by
using the first-in, first-out method.
 
 Revenue and Promotional Allowances
 
  Casino revenues represent the net win from gaming wins and losses. The
retail value of rooms, food, beverage and other services provided to customers
without charge is included in gross revenue and deducted as promotional
allowances. The estimated departmental costs of providing such promotional
allowances are included in casino costs and expenses as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                           NINE MONTHS ENDED
                             SEPTEMBER 30,       FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                         ---------------------- ----------------------------------
                            1997        1996       1996        1995        1994
                         ----------- ---------- ----------- ----------- ----------
                              (UNAUDITED)
<S>                      <C>         <C>        <C>         <C>         <C>
Room.................... $ 2,192,664 $1,255,269 $ 1,808,138 $ 1,940,936 $1,273,154
Food and beverage.......   9,144,233  6,845,047   9,429,800   9,020,152  7,823,819
Other operating
 expenses...............     508,074    140,021     206,163     104,921     44,888
                         ----------- ---------- ----------- ----------- ----------
                         $11,844,971 $8,240,337 $11,444,101 $11,066,009 $9,141,861
                         =========== ========== =========== =========== ==========
</TABLE>
 
 Earnings Per Share
 
  Earnings per common share are computed on the basis of the weighted average
number of common shares and common stock equivalents outstanding during the
period.
 
  The Financial Accounting Standards Board recently issued Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards No. 128--"Earnings Per Share" ("SFAS 128").
SFAS 128 is effective for financial statements issued for periods after
December 15, 1997 and replaces currently reported earnings per share with
"basic," or undiluted, earnings per share and "diluted" earnings per share.
Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted
average number of shares outstanding during the period, while diluted earnings
per share reflects the additional dilution for all potentially dilutive
securities, such as stock options. Earlier application of SFAS 128 is not
permitted, and the Company will adopt the provisions of SFAS 128 for 1998
financial statements, including the required restating of all previously
reported earnings per share.
 
                                      F-8
<PAGE>
 
                   RIO HOTEL & CASINO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
 
  The following table reflects the Company's pro forma earnings per share for
the nine month periods ended September 30, 1997 and 1996 and the years ended
December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994 as determined in accordance with SFAS 128:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                   NINE MONTHS
                                                      ENDED
                                                    SEPTEMBER     YEARS ENDED
                                                       30,       DECEMBER 31,
                                                   ----------- -----------------
                                                   1997  1996  1996  1995  1994
                                                   ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
                                                   (UNAUDITED)
   <S>                                             <C>   <C>   <C>   <C>   <C>
   Earnings per share:
     As reported.................................. $0.55 $0.70 $0.90 $0.87 $0.74
     Basic........................................ $0.56 $0.71 $0.91 $0.88 $0.75
     Diluted...................................... $0.55 $0.70 $0.90 $0.87 $0.74
</TABLE>
 
 Hedging Transaction
 
  The Company was a party to an interest rate swap agreement and has purchased
an interest rate cap (Note 6). Any net payments made or received by the Company
in connection with this interest rate swap agreement or interest rate cap, or
any other hedging transaction that the Company may enter into, will be
classified as cash flows from operating activities.
 
  Premiums paid for the interest rate cap agreements are amortized to interest
expense over the shorter of the original life of the debt or the term of the
cap. Unamortized premiums are included in other assets in the consolidated
balance sheet. Accounts receivable under the agreements are accrued as a
reduction of interest expense. Amounts payable under the interest rate swap
agreements are included in interest expense.
 
 Income Taxes
 
  Effective January 1, 1993, the Company implemented the provisions of SFAS
109. SFAS 109 utilizes the liability method and deferred taxes are determined
based on the estimated future tax effects of differences between the financial
statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities given the provisions of the
enacted tax laws.
 
2. CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
 
  Cash and cash equivalents at September 30, 1997, December 31, 1996 and 1995
include $2.0 million, $3.0 million and $10.0 million, respectively, in
overnight repurchase agreements with a bank. These items are recorded at cost
which approximates market value and are considered cash equivalents for
purposes of the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.
 
                                      F-9
<PAGE>
 
                   RIO HOTEL & CASINO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
 
3. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
 
  The following supplemental disclosures are provided as part of the
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                           NINE MONTHS ENDED
                             SEPTEMBER 30,      FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                         ---------------------- --------------------------------
                            1997        1996       1996       1995       1994
                         ----------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
                              (UNAUDITED)
<S>                      <C>         <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>
Cash payments made for
 interest (net of
 amounts capitalized)... $17,596,459 $7,736,982 $4,773,537 $3,904,540 $1,919,556
                         =========== ========== ========== ========== ==========
Cash payments made for
 income taxes........... $ 2,500,000 $6,600,000 $8,600,000 $7,100,000 $6,240,000
                         =========== ========== ========== ========== ==========
</TABLE>
 
  Non-cash financing and investing activities:
 
 September 30, 1997
 
  Purchase of property and equipment financed through payables totaled
$2,121,363.
 
  Purchase of land and improvements financed through debt issuance totaled
$4,483,448.
 
  Tax benefit arising from the exercise of non-qualified stock options totaled
$921,399.
 
 September 30, 1996
 
  Purchase of property and equipment financed through payables totaled
$25,139,541.
 
  Purchase of land financed through debt issuance totaled $1,215,110.
 
  Tax benefit arising from the exercise of stock options under the Company's
Non-Statutory Stock Option Plan totaled $556,213.
 
 December 31, 1996
 
  Purchase of property and equipment financed through payables totaled
$19,604,470.
 
  Purchase of property and equipment financed through long-term debt totaled
$140,435.
 
  Tax benefit arising from the exercise of stock options granted under the NSOP
totaled $570,283.
 
 December 31, 1995
 
  Purchase of property and equipment financed through payables totaled
$6,556,126.
 
  Purchase of land financed through long-term debt totaled $62,042.
 
  Accounts receivable increased by $85,380. This was financed through payables
and will be reimbursed to the Company.
 
  Tax benefit arising from the exercise of stock options granted under the
Company's Non-Statutory Stock Option Plan ("NSOP") totaled $632,601.
 
 December 31, 1994
 
  Purchase of property and equipment financed through payables totaled
$10,026,210.
 
  Tax benefit arising from the exercise of stock options granted under NSOP
totaled $886,132.
 
                                      F-10
<PAGE>
 
                   RIO HOTEL & CASINO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
 
4. ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE
 
  Components of receivables are as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                DECEMBER 31,
                            SEPTEMBER 30,  -----------------------
                                1997          1996         1995
                            -------------  -----------  ----------
                             (UNAUDITED)
   <S>                      <C>            <C>          <C>
   Casino.................. $ 30,097,232   $ 6,318,124  $3,267,244
   Hotel...................    4,668,905     3,244,388   1,757,640
   Other...................      507,016       244,423     113,250
                            ------------   -----------  ----------
                              35,273,153     9,806,935   5,138,134
   Less allowance for
    doubtful accounts......  (12,720,690)   (1,116,830)   (824,692)
                            ------------   -----------  ----------
                            $ 22,552,463   $ 8,690,105  $4,313,442
                            ============   ===========  ==========
</TABLE>
 
5. ACCRUED EXPENSES
 
  Components of accrued expenses are as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                              DECEMBER 31,
                                           SEPTEMBER 30, ----------------------
                                               1997         1996        1995
                                           ------------- ----------- ----------
                                            (UNAUDITED)
   <S>                                     <C>           <C>         <C>
   Accrued salaries, wages and related
    benefits..............................  $14,037,063  $ 5,615,310 $4,065,736
   Progressive slot machines and other
    gaming accruals.......................    3,103,805    2,862,652  2,532,964
   Accrued gaming taxes...................    2,766,881    1,646,333  1,714,232
   Other accrued liabilities..............    4,863,273    1,843,112    823,294
                                            -----------  ----------- ----------
                                            $24,771,022  $11,967,407 $9,136,226
                                            ===========  =========== ==========
</TABLE>
 
                                      F-11
<PAGE>
 
                   RIO HOTEL & CASINO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
 
6. LONG-TERM DEBT
 
  Long-term debt consists of the following:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                          DECEMBER 31,
                                     SEPTEMBER 30,  --------------------------
                                         1997           1996          1995
                                     -------------  ------------  ------------
                                      (UNAUDITED)
<S>                                  <C>            <C>           <C>
Rio Bank Loan, originally a $65
 million revolving credit facility,
 which was amended to be a
 $200 million revolving credit
 facility with interest equal to
 the Eurodollar Rate or the Base
 Rate, plus a margin. The loan
 matures on June 30, 2001 and is
 collateralized by a first deed of
 trust on substantially all of the
 Rio's real property, equipment and
 improvements......................  $ 70,000,000   $153,000,000  $ 10,000,000
10 5/8% Senior Subordinated Notes,
 interest only payable semi-
 annually; principal due July 15,
 2005..............................   100,000,000    100,000,000   100,000,000
9 1/2% Senior Subordinated Notes,
 interest only payable semi-
 annually, net of unamortized
 discount of $3,212,090; principal
 due April 15, 2007................   121,787,910            --            --
Note payable, interest payable
 monthly based on the prime rate,
 quarterly principal payments of
 $400,000 commencing May 31, 1998
 with any remaining balance due May
 31, 2000..........................     8,000,000            --             --
Other..............................     5,491,131      1,301,522       202,017
                                     ------------   ------------  ------------
                                      305,279,041    254,301,522   110,202,017
  Less current maturities..........    (1,265,510)      (352,239)      (25,252)
                                     ------------   ------------  ------------
                                     $304,013,531   $253,949,283  $110,176,765
                                     ============   ============  ============
</TABLE>
 
  The prime interest rate quoted by the Company's primary lenders at September
30, 1997 was 8.50%.
 
  At September 30, 1997, the six month Eurodollar Rate was 5.875%. The margin
on the Company's Eurodollar Rate borrowings at September 30, 1997 was 3.0%.
 
  The Rio Bank Loan was originally entered into on July 15, 1993 in the amount
of $65 million with a syndicate of banks led by Bank of America National Trust
and Savings Association ("Bank of America NT&SA"). As a result of certain
amendments, the Rio Bank Loan was increased to $125 million in December 1994,
to $175 million in September 1995, and to $200 million in June 1996. The Rio
Bank Loan is a secured reducing revolving credit facility to be used (a) to
refinance the pre-amendment Rio Bank Loan, (b) to finance the Phase V
Expansion, (c) to finance acquisition of land adjacent to the Rio for up to $40
million, and (d) for general corporate purposes.
 
  The Rio Bank Loan matures on June 30, 2001 and bears interest based upon a
"LIBOR Spread" of from 1% to 3%, or a "Base Rate Spread" of from 0% to 2% based
upon a schedule determined with reference to the "Funded Debt to EBITDA Ratio"
of Rio Properties. The "LIBOR Spread" is the amount in excess of the applicable
LIBOR rate which is the London Interbank Offer rate established in the London
interbank market. The "Base Rate Spread" is the amount in excess of the
applicable base
 
                                      F-12
<PAGE>
 
                   RIO HOTEL & CASINO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
rate, which is the rate per annum equal to the higher of the reference rate as
it is publicly announced from time to time by Bank of America NT&SA or 0.50%
per annum above the latest Federal Funds rate. The Rio Bank Loan also provides
for an unused facility fee ranging from 31.25 basis points to 50.00 basis
points depending upon the same Funded Debt to EBITDA ratio schedule utilized
for the interest rate. (A basis point is one one-hundredth of one percent.) The
Rio Bank Loan requires monthly or quarterly payments of interest and requires
scheduled reductions of the maximum amount available under the Rio Bank Loan
commencing with a $10.0 million reduction at December 31, 1997, a $7.5 million
reduction at the end of each quarter during 1998, a $10.0 million reduction at
the end of each quarter during 1999, a $12.5 million reduction at the end of
each quarter during 2000, and a $35.0 million reduction at March 31, 2001 and
maturity at June 30, 2001.
 
  To reduce the risks from interest rate fluctuations, the Company entered into
interest rate swap agreements in the amount of $20.0 million from September 30,
1994 through December 29, 1995 and $15.0 million from December 29, 1995 through
its expiration on June 28, 1996. In August 1994, the Company purchased a $40.0
million interest rate cap, effective September 30, 1994, for a three-year term,
which provides for quarterly payments to the Company in the event that three
month LIBOR exceeds 7% on any quarterly reset date. The interest rate cap
agreement expired by its terms on September 30, 1997.
 
  As a result of entering into interest rate swap agreements and cap
agreements, the Company has recognized interest expense of $199,000 and
$142,526 for the nine months ended September 30, 1997 and 1996, respectively,
and $208,859, $18,638 and $83,833 for the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995
and 1994, respectively. The impact of these hedging activities on the Company's
weighted average borrowing rate was an increase of approximately 0.01% for each
of the nine months ended September 30, 1997 and 1996 and 0.22%, 0.03% and 0.26%
for the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively.
 
  As of the nine months ended September 30, 1997, and the years ended December
31, 1996, 1995 and 1994, there were no deferred gains and losses relating to
terminated interest rate swap and interest rate cap agreements.
 
  The revolving credit feature of the Rio Bank Loan allows the Company to pay
down and reborrow principal under the line of credit as the Company deems
appropriate. The Company utilized this ability by reborrowing $10 million on
December 29, 1995 and repaid $9 million on January 2, 1996 under the terms of
the Rio Bank Loan. During the third quarter of 1995, the Company used the net
proceeds from the 10 5/8% Subordinated Notes to reduce amounts outstanding
under the Rio Bank Loan, and in the first quarter of 1997, used the net
proceeds from the 9 1/2% Subordinated Notes to reduce amounts under the Rio
Bank Loan. The Company had $130 million, $47 million and $165 million available
under the Rio Bank Loan at September 30, 1997, December 31, 1996 and December
31, 1995, respectively.
 
  As of September 30, 1997, at which time outstanding borrowings under the Rio
Bank Loan were $70.0 million, annual maturities of total notes and loans
payable are as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
       YEAR ENDING
       -----------                                                   (UNAUDITED)
       <S>                                                          <C>
       September 30, 1998.......................................... $  1,265,510
       September 30, 1999..........................................    1,655,311
       September 30, 2000..........................................    6,176,683
       September 30, 2001..........................................   70,189,990
       September 30, 2002..........................................      204,269
       Thereafter..................................................  225,787,278
                                                                    ------------
                                                                    $305,279,041
                                                                    ============
</TABLE>
 
                                      F-13
<PAGE>
 
                   RIO HOTEL & CASINO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
 
  The carrying values of assets included in the consolidated financial
statements, which collateralize bank loans payable, are as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                             DECEMBER 31,
                                         SEPTEMBER 30, -------------------------
                                             1997          1996         1995
                                         ------------- ------------ ------------
                                          (UNAUDITED)
<S>                                      <C>           <C>          <C>
Building and improvements............... $406,396,476  $196,918,053 $192,818,896
Equipment, furniture and improvements...   79,827,477    72,052,458   68,500,267
Land and improvements...................   58,780,484    35,345,485   33,676,354
Construction in progress................      265,973   190,210,277   17,173,483
                                         ------------  ------------ ------------
                                         $545,270,410  $494,526,273 $312,169,000
                                         ============  ============ ============
</TABLE>
 
  The 10 5/8% Senior Subordinated Notes (the "10 5/8% Notes") and the 9 1/2%
Senior Subordinated Notes (the "Existing 9 1/2% Notes") are unconditionally
guaranteed on a pari passu senior subordinated basis by Rio Properties. The 10
5/8% Notes and the Existing 9 1/2% Notes (together "the Notes") are pari passu
in right of payment, are subordinated in right of payment to all existing and
future Senior Indebtedness (as defined in the indentures for the Notes, the
"Indentures") of the Company, and are structurally subordinated to all existing
and future indebtedness and other liabilities (including trade payables) of the
Company's subsidiaries.
 
  The 10 5/8% Notes may be redeemed at the option of the Company, in whole or
in part, at any time on or after July 15, 2000, at the redemption prices set
forth in the Indenture for the 10 5/8% Notes. The Existing 9 1/2% Notes may be
redeemed at the option of the Company, in whole or in part, at any time after
April 15, 2002, at the redemption prices set forth in the Indenture for the
Existing 9 1/2% Notes. Upon a change in control of the Company (as defined in
the Indenture), each holder of the Notes will have the right to require the
Company to repurchase all or part of such holder's Notes at a price equal to
101% of the aggregate principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid
interest, if any, to the date of repurchase. Each Indenture contains certain
covenants that, among other things, limit the ability of the Company and its
Restricted Subsidiaries (as defined in the Indentures) to incur additional
indebtedness, pay dividends or make other distributions, make investments,
repurchase subordinated obligations or capital stock, create certain liens
(except, among others, liens securing Senior Indebtedness), enter into certain
transactions with affiliates, sell assets of the Company or its subsidiaries,
issue or sell subsidiary stock, create or permit to exist restrictions on
distributions from subsidiaries, or enter into certain mergers and
consolidations.
 
7. INCOME TAXES
 
  The federal income tax provisions for the nine months ended September 30,
1997 and for the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994 consist of the
following:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                 NINE MONTHS
                                    ENDED          YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                SEPTEMBER 30, ----------------------------------
                                    1997         1996        1995        1994
                                ------------- ----------- ----------- ----------
                                 (UNAUDITED)
   <S>                          <C>           <C>         <C>         <C>
   Current.....................  $4,667,904   $ 8,214,092 $ 7,681,015 $6,643,993
   Deferred....................   2,211,232     2,198,017   3,026,120  2,534,030
                                 ----------   ----------- ----------- ----------
                                 $6,879,136   $10,412,109 $10,707,135 $9,178,023
                                 ==========   =========== =========== ==========
</TABLE>
 
                                      F-14
<PAGE>
 
                   RIO HOTEL & CASINO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
 
  The following schedule reconciles the Company's effective tax rate to the
statutory rate:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                              NINE MONTHS    YEAR ENDED
                                                 ENDED      DECEMBER 31,
                                             SEPTEMBER 30, ------------------
                                                 1997      1996   1995   1994
                                             ------------- ----   ----   ----
                                              (UNAUDITED)
   <S>                                       <C>           <C>    <C>    <C>
   Statutory rate...........................     35.0 %    35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 %
   Depreciation on premium allocated in Rio
    Partnership exchange....................      1.3 %     0.2 %  0.4 %  0.5 %
   Disallowance for tax purposes of certain
    meals, travel and entertainment
    expenses................................      2.0 %     0.2 %  1.5 %  1.2 %
   Other....................................     (1.8)%    (0.4)% (0.5)% (0.2)%
                                                 ----      ----   ----   ----
   Effective rate...........................     36.5 %    35.0 % 36.4 % 36.5 %
                                                 ====      ====   ====   ====
</TABLE>
 
  During 1994, the Company utilized all remaining alternative minimum tax
credit carryforwards.
 
  The Company's deferred tax assets (liabilities) at September 30, 1997 and
December 31, 1996 consisted of the following:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                SEPTEMBER 30, 1997        DECEMBER 31, 1996
                              -----------------------  -----------------------
                               CURRENT   NON-CURRENT    CURRENT   NON-CURRENT
                              ---------- ------------  ---------- ------------
                                    (UNAUDITED)
<S>                           <C>        <C>           <C>        <C>
Depreciation & amortization.. $      --  $(15,189,459) $      --  $(11,539,037)
Deferred employee benefits...    810,233          --      581,000          --
Bad debt expense.............    498,786          --      390,890          --
Preopening costs.............        --           --          --    (1,275,043)
Other deferred tax items,
 net.........................        --       416,457     728,019   (1,059,980)
                              ---------- ------------  ---------- ------------
                              $1,309,019 $(14,773,002) $1,699,909 $(13,874,060)
                              ========== ============  ========== ============
</TABLE>
 
  The Company's deferred tax assets (liabilities) at December 31, 1995
consisted of the following:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                         CURRENT  NON-CURRENT
                                                         -------- ------------
     <S>                                                 <C>      <C>
     Depreciation & amortization........................ $    --  $(11,399,852)
     Deferred employee benefits.........................  370,122          --
     Bad debt expense...................................  288,642          --
     Other deferred tax assets, net.....................      --       764,954
                                                         -------- ------------
                                                         $658,764 $(10,634,898)
                                                         ======== ============
</TABLE>
 
  The current portion of the Company's net deferred tax assets is included on
the Consolidated Balance Sheet under the heading "Prepaid Expenses and Other
Current Assets."
 
  The Company has determined that it is probable that the full amount of the
tax benefit from the deferred tax assets will be realized and therefore, has
not recorded a valuation allowance to reduce the carrying value of the
deferred tax assets.
 
8. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
 
  Effective January 1, 1991, Rio Properties maintains an employee profit
sharing plan for all employees who have accredited service. Contributions to
the plan are discretionary and cannot exceed
 
                                     F-15
<PAGE>
 
                   RIO HOTEL & CASINO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
amounts permitted under the Internal Revenue Code. Contributions of $376,736,
$278,835 and $215,039 have been authorized and charged to income for the years
ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively. For the nine months ended
September 30, 1997, contributions of $358,358 were charged to income.
 
  In the normal course of business, the Company is involved with various
negotiations and legal matters. In addition, Rio Properties is a potential
defendant in various personal injury allegations. Management is of the opinion
that the effect of these matters is not material to the consolidated financial
statements.
 
9. STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
 
 Common Stock
 
  During the nine months ended September 30, 1997, the Company issued 242,400
shares of Common Stock at exercise prices ranging from $3.00 per share to
$15.625 per share pursuant to options previously granted under the Company's
Non-Statutory Stock Option Plan ("NSOP") and other non-statutory options
previously granted under the Company's Long-Term Incentive Plan.
 
  During 1996, the Company issued 175,795 shares of Common Stock at exercise
prices ranging from $3.00 per share to $15.625 per share pursuant to options
previously granted under the NSOP.
 
  During 1996, the Company repurchased 144,500 shares of Common Stock from time
to time in the open market at a total cost of $2.2 million. The repurchased
shares of Common Stock were retired.
 
  During 1995, the Company issued 198,300 shares of Common Stock at exercise
prices ranging from $3.00 per share to $14.25 per share pursuant to options
previously granted under the NSOP.
 
  During 1995, the Company repurchased 430,500 shares of Common Stock from time
to time in the open market at a total cost of $5.4 million. The repurchased
shares of Common Stock were retired.
 
  During 1994, the Company issued 223,550 shares of Common Stock at exercise
prices ranging from $3.00 per share to $15.625 per share pursuant to options
previously granted under the Company's NSOP.
 
                                      F-16
<PAGE>
 
                   RIO HOTEL & CASINO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
 
 Stock Options
 
  The Company has various stock option plans under which options may be granted
to officers, outside directors, employees, agents or independent contractors of
the Company. The options granted typically vest ratably over five years, with
an expiration 10 years from date of issuance.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                           NINE MONTHS ENDED
                             SEPTEMBER 30,         YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                          --------------------  -------------------------------
                            1997       1996       1996       1995       1994
                          ---------  ---------  ---------  ---------  ---------
                              (UNAUDITED)
<S>                       <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>
Options outstanding,
 beginning of period....  2,389,555  1,853,850  1,853,850  1,999,050  1,957,800
Granted.................  1,204,000    793,000    828,000    294,000    337,500
Exercised...............   (242,400)  (172,195)  (175,795)  (198,300)  (223,550)
Forfeited...............    (31,100)  (101,300)  (116,500)  (240,900)   (72,700)
                          ---------  ---------  ---------  ---------  ---------
Options outstanding, end
 of period..............  3,320,055  2,373,355  2,389,555  1,853,850  1,999,050
                          =========  =========  =========  =========  =========
Options available for
 grant at end of period.    365,000  1,563,900  1,484,300    259,400    212,500
Options exercisable at
 end of period..........  1,407,155    730,115    996,755    894,717    586,050
Average exercise price
 of options exercised
 during the period......  $    5.33  $    6.65  $    6.62  $    5.21  $    4.57
Average exercise price
 of options outstanding
 at end of period.......  $   14.05  $   12.75  $   12.40  $   10.63  $    7.04
Average exercise price
 of options granted
 during the period......  $   15.49  $   15.35  $   15.37  $   13.01  $   12.56
Average exercise price
 of options forfeited
 during the period......  $   13.98  $   12.91  $   14.04  $   12.43  $   12.33
</TABLE>
 
  The Company has granted 2,879,500 options at exercise prices ranging from
$3.00 to $15.625 per share to key officers and employees under the Company's
NSOP. As of September 30, 1997, 1,120,445 options had been exercised and
483,400 options had been forfeited, resulting in 1,275,655 options outstanding
and 241,400 options available to be granted under the NSOP.
 
  Under the Directors Stock Option Plan, as amended, options to purchase up to
200,000 shares of common stock may be granted to non-employee directors. The
option exercise price is 100% of the fair market value of the common stock on
the date of grant. As of September 30, 1997, 138,000 options had been granted
at exercise prices ranging from $3.00 per share to $16.625 per share, 30,000
options had been exercised and 22,000 options had been forfeited, resulting in
86,000 options outstanding and 84,000 options available to be granted.
 
  Under the 1995 Long-Term Incentive Plan, options to purchase up to 2,000,000
shares of the Company's common stock may be granted to executive officers, key
employees and outside consultants of the Company. The option exercise price is
equal to or more than the last reported sale price of the common stock on the
date of the grant. As of September 30, 1997, 1,979,000 options had been granted
at exercise prices ranging from $15.50 to $16.75 per share. A total of 2,000
options had been exercised and 18,600 options had been forfeited, resulting in
1,958,400 options outstanding and 60,200 options available to be granted.
 
  The Company applies APB Opinion No. 25 and related interpretations in
accounting for the plans. Accordingly, no compensation expense has been
recognized for the stock options. FASB
 
                                      F-17
<PAGE>
 
                   RIO HOTEL & CASINO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
Statement 123 "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation" ("SFAS 123") was issued
by the FASB in 1995 and, if fully adopted, changes the methods for recognition
of cost on plans similar to those of the Company. Had compensation cost for the
Company's stock-based compensation plans been determined based on the fair
market value of options on the dates of grant for the nine month periods ended
September 30, 1997 and 1996 and years ended December 31, 1996 and 1995 using
the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following assumptions: (i) no
dividends, (ii) expected volatility of 35% for the nine months ended September
30, 1997 and 37% for the nine months ended September 30, 1996 and years ended
December 31, 1996 and 1995, (iii) risk free interest rates of 6.00% and 5.62%
for the nine month periods ended September 30, 1997 and 1996, respectively, and
6.06% and 5.68% for the years ended December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively,
(iv) and expected lives of four years, the effect on net income and earnings
per share would be as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                  NINE MONTHS ENDED
                                    SEPTEMBER 30,      YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                               ----------------------- -----------------------
                                  1997        1996        1996        1995
                               ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
                                     (UNAUDITED)
<S>                            <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>
Net income
  --As reported............... $11,967,793 $15,067,593 $19,366,377 $18,745,479
                               =========== =========== =========== ===========
  --Proforma.................. $11,606,426 $14,618,359 $18,286,839 $18,692,445
                               =========== =========== =========== ===========
Primary Earnings per share
  --As reported............... $      0.55 $      0.70 $      0.90 $      0.87
                               =========== =========== =========== ===========
  --Proforma.................. $      0.49 $      0.68 $      0.86 $      0.87
                               =========== =========== =========== ===========
Fully diluted earnings per
 share
  --As reported............... $      0.55 $      0.70 $      0.90 $      0.87
                               =========== =========== =========== ===========
  --Proforma.................. $      0.49 $      0.68 $      0.86 $      0.87
                               =========== =========== =========== ===========
</TABLE>
 
  The weighted average fair market value of options granted in 1996 and 1995
were $2.49 and $4.83, respectively.
 
10. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
 
  The Company contracted with two affiliates of the Company's largest
stockholder for the design and construction of a 41-story hotel tower
containing approximately 1,000 suites (the "Phase V Expansion") for a total of
approximately $200 million. The Phase V Expansion project was completed during
the first nine months of 1997.
 
  The Company contracted with two affiliates of the Company's largest
stockholder for the design and construction of three previous expansion
projects, the 437 new suite Eastside Expansion for a total of $57.6 million,
the 549 new suite Phase III Expansion for a total of $64.2 million and the 141
new suite Phase IV Expansion for a total of $18.8 million. Each of these
expansions included the addition of new public and back-of-the-house areas and
improvements.
 
  An affiliate of the Company's largest stockholder provided real estate
brokerage services to the Company in connection with the purchase of 31 acres
adjacent to the Rio and the acquisition of the options to purchase an
additional seven acres. In addition, in 1997, the affiliate rented a site
centrally located on the Las Vegas Strip to the Company for a transportation
center. Rent and fees paid in connection with these property acquisitions,
including reimbursement of expenses, were $826,618 for
 
                                      F-18
<PAGE>
 
                   RIO HOTEL & CASINO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
the nine months ended September 30, 1997 and $999,910 and $878,428 for the
years ended December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively. Nominal amounts were
paid by the Company to the affiliate for similar purposes during 1994. Expense
reimbursements were generally reimbursed at the affiliate's cost, and real
estate brokerage commissions are believed to be on terms at least as favorable
as would have been obtained from non-affiliated parties.
 
  Two director/officers of the Company are associated with affiliated entities
as noted above which render various architectural and construction services
for the Company. The Company paid these entities, in the aggregate, including
the above-referenced Eastside Expansion, Phase III Expansion, Phase IV
Expansion and Phase V Expansion, approximately $48.1 million, $147.9 million,
$51.0 million and $50.4 million during the nine months ended September 30,
1997, and the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively, for
their services.
 
  Entities in which a director of the Company is the principal stockholder and
the executive officer received commissions from the Company totaling
approximately $157,000, $122,000, $159,000 and $125,000 for the nine months
ended September 30, 1997, and the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and
1994, respectively, arising out of the acquisition of various insurance
coverages by the Company.
 
  In 1997, the Company contracted with an affiliate of the Company's largest
stockholder for completion of the Rio Secco Golf Club, with the exception of a
clubhouse, for $5.7 million. A new contract will be entered into for the
construction of the clubhouse for approximately $6.5 million. During the nine
months ended September 30, 1997, the Company paid approximately $3.3 million
on the initial contract.
 
  The Company believes that the transactions described above are on terms at
least as favorable as would have been obtained from non-related parties.
 
11. SUBSEQUENT EVENT
 
  On February 4, 1997, the Company entered into an agreement with Salomon
Brothers Inc and BancAmerica Securities, Inc. (the "Initial Purchasers") for
the sale by the Company of $125 million in principal amount of 9 1/2% Senior
Subordinated Notes Due 2007 (the "9 1/2% Notes"). The 9 1/2% Notes were
purchased by the Initial Purchasers for resale to qualified institutional
investors. The net proceeds from the sale of the 9 1/2% Notes (approximately
$121.5 million after the deduction of a 2.75% discount to the Initial
Purchasers and offering expenses of approximately $0.1 million), were used to
reduce amounts outstanding under the Rio Bank Loan, thereby increasing the
amount available under the Rio Bank Loan by the same amount.
 
  The 9 1/2% Notes were issued under an indenture (the "New Indenture") dated
February 11, 1997 among the Company, Rio Properties and IBJ Schroder Bank &
Trust Company, as trustee. The following summary of certain provisions of the
New Indenture does not purport to be complete and is subject to the provisions
of the New Indenture and the 9 1/2% Notes. Capitalized terms not otherwise
defined have the same meanings assigned to them in the New Indenture.
 
  The 9 1/2% Notes mature on April 15, 2007. Interest payment dates under the
9 1/2% Notes are April 15 and October 15, commencing April 15, 1997. Together
with the 10 5/8% Notes, the 9 1/2% Notes are unconditionally guaranteed (the
"Rio Guarantee") on a senior subordinated basis by Rio Properties. The 9 1/2%
Notes are subordinated in right of payment to all existing and future Senior
Indebtedness (as defined in the New Indenture) of the Company and are
structurally subordinated to
 
                                     F-19
<PAGE>
 
                   RIO HOTEL & CASINO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
all existing and future indebtedness and other liabilities (including trade
payables) of the Company's subsidiaries. The Rio Guarantee is subordinated in
right of payment to all existing and future Senior Indebtedness (as defined in
the New Indenture) of Rio Properties and is structurally subordinated to all
existing and future indebtedness and other liabilities (including trade
payables) of Rio Properties' subsidiaries.
 
  The 9 1/2% Notes may be redeemed at the option of the Company, in whole or in
part, at any time on or after April 15, 2002, at the redemption prices set
forth in the New Indenture, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, through
the redemption date. The 9 1/2% Notes will be redeemed from any holder or
beneficial owner of the 9 1/2% Notes which is required to be found suitable and
is not found suitable by the Nevada Gaming Commission.
 
  Upon a Change of Control of the Company (as defined in the New Indenture),
each holder of the 9 1/2% Notes will have the right to require the Company to
repurchase all or part of such holder's 9 1/2% Notes at a price equal to 101%
of the aggregate principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if
any, to the date of repurchase. The Company's obligation to repurchase the 9
1/2% Notes is guaranteed on a senior subordinated basis by Rio Properties. The
New Indenture contains certain covenants that, among other things, limit the
ability of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries (as defined in the New
Indenture) to incur additional indebtedness, pay dividends or make other
distributions, make investments, repurchase subordinated obligations or capital
stock, create certain liens (except, among others, liens securing Senior
Indebtedness), enter into certain transactions with affiliates, sell assets of
the Company or its subsidiaries, issue or sell subsidiary stock, create or
permit to exist restrictions on distributions from subsidiaries, or enter into
certain mergers and consolidations.
 
12. DEBT GUARANTEE
 
  Summarized financial information is provided below for Rio Properties, the
Company's principal wholly owned operating subsidiary, as sole guarantor to the
10 5/8% Notes and the 9 1/2% Notes which are pari passu under the guarantee.
The two subordinated note issues are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by
Rio Properties and are subordinated to all existing and future indebtedness and
other liabilities (including trade payables) of the Company's subsidiaries.
 
                                      F-20
<PAGE>
 
                   RIO HOTEL & CASINO, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
 
 
  Summarized financial statements of Rio Properties and the Company's other
subsidiaries have not been prepared since the assets, pre-tax income and
parents' net investment in the non-guarantor subsidiaries on an individual and
combined basis are inconsequential, except as described below. In addition,
the Company's operations and assets other than its investment in its
subsidiaries are inconsequential. The difference in net equity between the
Company and Rio Properties is principally a result of the Company's purchase
in 1990 and 1992 of minority interests in a subsidiary, resulting in the
payment of premiums of approximately $13.7 million and $1.3 million,
respectively. The premiums were allocated by the Company, based on fair market
values, among land, building and equipment, furniture and improvements.
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                        YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                    NINE MONTHS ENDED  -------------------------
                                    SEPTEMBER 30, 1997     1996         1995
                                    ------------------ ------------ ------------
                                       (UNAUDITED)
<S>                                 <C>                <C>          <C>
Current assets.....................    $ 40,902,711    $ 30,139,122 $ 29,995,415
Non-current assets.................     489,955,214     448,469,956  262,320,009
Current liabilities................      57,843,169      56,301,870   33,216,257
Non-current liabilities............     292,447,093     253,949,282  110,176,765
Revenues...........................     270,675,793     219,577,608  192,537,954
Operating profit...................      38,028,793      37,959,885   37,138,205
Income before income taxes.........      19,092,179      29,744,600   29,451,596
Net income.........................      12,123,176      19,327,165   18,733,318
</TABLE>    
 
  One of the Company's non-guarantor subsidiaries, Rio Development, Inc. ("Rio
Development") has recently acquired assets and liabilities associated with the
purchase of a golf course. As of September 30, 1997, this subsidiary had
current assets of $95,513; non-current assets of $26,140,110, including
$5,635,073 due from the Company; current liabilities of $909,283 and non-
current liabilities of $20,356,084, including $8,789,646 due Rio Properties.
Prior to September 30, 1997, the assets and operations of Rio Development were
inconsequential.
 
                                     F-21
<PAGE>
 
   
NO DEALER, SALESPERSON OR ANY OTHER PERSON HAS BEEN AUTHORIZED TO GIVE ANY
INFORMATION OR TO MAKE ANY REPRESENTATIONS OTHER THAN THOSE CONTAINED IN OR
INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE IN THIS PROSPECTUS IN CONNECTION WITH THE OFFER MADE
BY THIS PROSPECTUS AND, IF GIVEN OR MADE, SUCH INFORMATION OR REPRESENTATIONS
MUST NOT BE RELIED UPON AS HAVING BEEN AUTHORIZED BY THE COMPANY OR ANY OF THE
UNDERWRITERS. NEITHER THE DELIVERY OF THIS PROSPECTUS NOR ANY SALE MADE
HEREUNDER SHALL, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES, CREATE ANY IMPLICATION THAT THERE
HAS BEEN NO CHANGE IN THE AFFAIRS OF THE COMPANY SINCE THE DATES AS OF WHICH
INFORMATION IS GIVEN IN THIS PROSPECTUS. THIS PROSPECTUS DOES NOT CONSTITUTE
AN OFFER OR SOLICITATION BY ANYONE IN ANY JURISDICTION IN WHICH SUCH OFFER OR
SOLICITATION IS NOT AUTHORIZED OR IN WHICH THE PERSON MAKING SUCH OFFER OR
SOLICITATION IS NOT QUALIFIED TO DO SO OR TO ANY PERSON TO WHOM IT IS UNLAWFUL
TO MAKE SUCH SOLICITATION.     
 
                               ----------------
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                            PAGE
                                                                            ----
<S>                                                                         <C>
Available Information.....................................................    2
Incorporation of Documents by Reference...................................    2
Prospectus Summary........................................................    4
Risk Factors..............................................................    8
Use of Proceeds...........................................................   13
Dividend Policy...........................................................   13
Price Range of Common Stock...............................................   13
Consolidated Capitalization...............................................   14
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
 Operations...............................................................   15
Business..................................................................   22
Certain Transactions......................................................   36
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management............   38
Underwriting..............................................................   40
Legal Matters.............................................................   41
Experts...................................................................   41
Index to Consolidated Financial Statements................................  F-1
</TABLE>

3,000,000 SHARES
   
RIO HOTEL & CASINO, INC.     
 
COMMON STOCK
($0.01 PAR VALUE)

[LOGO OF RIO HOTEL & CASINO, INC.]
 
SALOMON BROTHERS INC
 
MERRILL LYNCH & CO.
   
NATIONSBANC MONTGOMERY SECURITIES, INC.     
   
SMITH BARNEY INC.     
 
PROSPECTUS
   
DATED      , 1997     
<PAGE>
 
                                    PART II
 
                    INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS
 
ITEM 14. OTHER EXPENSES OF ISSUANCE AND DISTRIBUTION
 
  The estimated expenses of the issuance and distribution of the Shares
offered hereby, as set forth below, will be borne entirely by the Company:
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                  ITEM                                  AMOUNT
                                  ----                                 --------
   <S>                                                                 <C>
   Securities and Exchange Commission Registration Fee................ $ 23,066
   Blue Sky Fees......................................................    4,500
   New York Stock Exchange Listing Fee................................   12,500
   N.A.S.D. Fee.......................................................    8,111
   Transfer Agents Fees and Expenses..................................    3,500
   Printing Expenses..................................................   30,000
   Legal Fees and Expenses............................................  175,000
   Accounting Fees and Expenses.......................................   45,000
   Miscellaneous Expenses.............................................  148,573
                                                                       --------
     Total............................................................ $450,000
                                                                       ========
</TABLE>    
 
ITEM 16. EXHIBITS
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
   EXHIBIT
   NUMBER                             DESCRIPTION
   -------                            -----------
   <C>     <S>
     1.01  Form of Underwriting Agreement.
     5.01  Opinion and consent of Kummer Kaempfer Bonner & Renshaw as to the
           legality of securities being registered.*
           Consent of Kummer Kaempfer Bonner & Renshaw, contained in Exhibit
    23.01  5.01.*
    23.02  Consent of Arthur Andersen LLP.
    24.01  Power of Attorney.*
</TABLE>    
- --------
   
* Filed previously.     
 
                                     II-1
<PAGE>
 
                                  SIGNATURES
   
  Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Pre-effective Amendment No. 1 to the Registration
Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly
authorized in the City of Las Vegas, State of Nevada on November 7, 1997.     
 
                                          Rio Hotel & Casino, Inc.

                                             
                                          By: /s/ Ronald J. Radcliffe
                                              _________________________________
                                                  Ronald J.Radcliffe
                                               Vice President, Treasurer and
                                               Chief Financial Officer     
   
  Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this Pre-
effective Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement has been signed by the
following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.     
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
             SIGNATURE                           TITLE                   DATE
             ---------                           -----                   ----
<S>                                  <C>                           <C>
                 *                   Chairman of the Board of      November 7, 1997
____________________________________  Directors and Chief
       Anthony A. Marnell II          Executive Officer
                                      (Principal Executive
                                      Officer)
                 *                   President and Director        November 7, 1997
____________________________________
       James A. Barrett, Jr.
                 *                   Executive Vice President,     November 7, 1997
____________________________________  Chief Operating Officer and
          David P. Hanlon             Director
                 *                   Chairman of the Board of      November 7, 1997
____________________________________  Directors and Chief
       Anthony A. Marnell II          Executive Officer
                                      (Principal Executive
                                      Officer)
    /s/ Ronald J. Radcliffe          Vice President, Treasurer     November 7, 1997
____________________________________  and Chief Financial Officer
        Ronald J. Radcliffe           (Principal Financial and
                                      Accounting Officer)
                 *                   Director                      November 7, 1997
____________________________________
           John A. Stuart
                 *                   Director                      November 7, 1997
____________________________________
         Thomas Y. Hartley
                                     Director
____________________________________
          Peter M. Thomas
</TABLE>    

   
*By: /s/ Ronald J. Radcliffe
     __________________________
         Ronald J. Radcliffe 
         Attorney-in-fact     
 
                                     II-2
<PAGE>
 
                                 EXHIBIT INDEX
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
 EXHIBIT                                                                  PAGE
 NUMBER                           DESCRIPTION                            NUMBER
 -------                          -----------                            ------
 <C>     <S>                                                             <C>
   1.01  Form of Underwriting Agreement.
   5.01  Opinion and consent of Kummer Kaempfer Bonner & Renshaw as to
         the legality of securities being registered.*
         Consent of Kummer Kaempfer Bonner & Renshaw, contained in
  23.01  Exhibit 5.01.*
  23.02  Consent of Arthur Andersen LLP.
  24.01  Power of Attorney.*
</TABLE>    
- --------
   
* Filed previously.     

<PAGE>
 
                                                                    EXHIBIT 1.01
                            Rio Hotel & Casino, Inc.

                               3,000,000 Shares*
                                 Common Stock 
                                ($.01 par value)

                             Underwriting Agreement

                                                              New York, New York
                                                                 November __, 19

Salomon Brothers Inc
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated
As Representatives of the several Underwriters,
c/o Salomon Brothers Inc
Seven World Trade Center
New York, New York 10048

Ladies and Gentlemen:

          Rio Hotel & Casino, Inc., a Nevada corporation (the "Company"),
proposes to sell to the underwriters named in Schedule I hereto (the
"Underwriters"), for whom you (the "Representatives") are acting as
representatives, 3,000,000 shares of Common Stock, $.01 par value ("Common
Stock") of the Company (said shares to be issued and sold by the Company being
hereinafter called the "Underwritten Securities"). The Company also proposes to
grant to the Underwriters an option to purchase up to 450,000 additional shares
of Common Stock (the "Option Securities"; the Option Securities, together with
the Underwritten Securities, being hereinafter called the "Securities"). To the
extent there are no additional Underwriters listed on Schedule I other than you,
the term Representatives as used herein shall mean you, as Underwriters, and the
terms Representatives and Underwriters shall mean either the singular or plural
as the context requires. Any reference herein to the Registration Statement, a
Preliminary Prospectus or the Prospectus shall be deemed to refer to and include
the documents incorporated by reference therein pursuant to Item 12 of Form S-3
which were filed under the Exchange Act on or before the Effective Date of the
Registration Statement or the issue date of such Preliminary Prospectus or the
Prospectus, as the case may be; and any reference herein to the terms "amend",
"amendment" or "supplement" with respect to the Registration Statement, any
Preliminary Prospectus or the Prospectus shall be deemed to refer to and include
the filing of any document under the Exchange Act after the Effective Date of
the Registration Statement, or the issue date of any Preliminary Prospectus or
the Prospectus, as the case may be, deemed to be incorporated therein by
reference.

- ---------------------------
  *   Plus an option to purchase from Rio Hotel & Casino, Inc., up to 450,000
      additional shares to cover over-allotments.
<PAGE>
 
        1. Representations and Warranties. The Company represents and warrants
to, and agrees with, each Underwriter as set forth below in this Section.
Certain terms used in this Section 1 are defined in Section 17 hereof.

        (a) The Company meets the requirements for use of Form S-3 under the Act
     and has filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the
     "Commission") a registration statement (file number ) on such Form,
     including a related preliminary prospectus, for the registration under the
     Act of the offering and sale of the Securities. The Company may have filed
     one or more amendments thereto, including a related preliminary prospectus,
     each of which has previously been furnished to you. The Company will next
     file with the Commission one of the following: (i) prior to the Effective
     Date of such registration statement, a further amendment to such
     registration statement, including the form of final prospectus, (ii) a
     final prospectus in accordance with Rules 430A and 424(b)(1) or (4), or
     (iii) a final prospectus in accordance with Rules 415 and 424(b)(2) or (5).
     In the case of clause (ii), the Company has included in such registration
     statement, as amended at the Effective Date, all information (other than
     Rule 430A Information) required by the Act and the rules thereunder to be
     included in such registration statement and the Prospectus. As filed, such
     amendment and form of final prospectus, or such final prospectus, shall
     contain all Rule 430A Information, together with all other such required
     information, and, except to the extent the Representatives shall agree in
     writing to a modification, shall be in all substantive respects in the form
     furnished to you prior to the Execution Time or, to the extent not
     completed at the Execution Time, shall contain only such specific
     additional information and other changes (beyond that contained in the
     latest Preliminary Prospectus) as the Company has advised you, prior to the
     Execution Time, will be included or made therein. If the Registration
     Statement contains the undertaking specified by Regulation S-K Item 512(a),
     the Registration Statement, at the Execution Time, meets the requirements
     set forth in Rule 415(a)(1)(x).

         (b) It is understood that a form of prospectus is to be used in
     connection with the offering and sale of the Securities to United States
     and Canadian Persons (as defined herein) which, for purposes of
     distribution to Canadian Persons, shall have a Canadian "wrap-around" (the
     "Canadian Offering Memorandum"). Insofar as they relate to offers or sales
     of Securities in Canada, all references herein to the Preliminary
     Prospectus and the Prospectus shall include the Canadian Offering
     Memorandum.

        (c) On the Effective Date, the Registration Statement did or will, and
     when the Prospectus is first filed (if required) in accordance with Rule
     424(b) and on the Closing Date (as defined herein) and on any date on which
     shares sold in respect of the Underwriters' over-allotment option are
     purchased, if such date is not the Closing Date (a "settlement date"), the
     Prospectus (and any supplements thereto) will, comply in all material
     respects with the applicable requirements of the Act and the Exchange Act
     and the respective rules thereunder; on the Effective Date and at the
     Execution Time, the Registration Statement did not or will not contain any
     untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any material fact
     required to be stated therein or necessary in order to make the statements
     therein not misleading; and, on the Effective Date, the Prospectus, if 

                                       2
<PAGE>
 
     not filed pursuant to Rule 424(b), will not, and on the date of any filing
     pursuant to Rule 424(b) and on the Closing Date and any settlement date,
     the Prospectus (together with any supplement thereto) will not, include any
     untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact
     necessary in order to make the statements therein, in the light of the
     circumstances under which they were made, not misleading; provided,
                                                               ---------
     however, that the Company makes no representations or warranties as to the
     -------
     information contained in or omitted from the Registration Statement or the
     Prospectus (or any supplement thereto) in reliance upon and in conformity
     with information furnished herein or in writing to the Company by or on
     behalf of any Underwriter through the Representatives specifically for
     inclusion in the Registration Statement or the Prospectus (or any
     supplement thereto).

        (d)  This Agreement has been duly authorized, executed and delivered by
     the Company; no consent, approval, authorization, qualification, filing
     with or order or permit of any court or any governmental, regulatory or
     administrative agency or body is required in connection with the
     transactions contemplated herein, except such as have been obtained under
     the Act or under the Nevada Gaming Control Act and the rules and
     regulations thereunder and such as may be required under the blue sky or
     real estate syndication laws or rules of any jursidiction in connection
     with the purchase and distribution of the Securities by the Underwriters in
     the manner contemplated in this Agreement and in the Prospectus; neither
     the issue and sale of the Securities, nor the consummation of any other of
     the transactions herein contemplated nor the fulfillment of the terms
     hereof will conflict with, result in a breach or violation or imposition of
     any lien, charge or encumbrance upon any property or assets of the Company
     or its Subsidiaries pursuant to, the charter or by-laws of the Company or
     its subsidiaries or the terms of any indenture, contract, lease, mortgage,
     deed of trust, note agreement, loan agreement or other agreement,
     obligation, condition, covenant or instrument to which the Company or its
     subsidiaries is a party or bound or to which its property is subject, or
     any statute, law, rule, regulation, judgment, order or decree applicable to
     the Company or its subsidiaries of any court, regulatory body,
     administrative agency, governmental body, arbitrator or other authority
     having jurisdiction over the Company or its subsidiaries or any of its or
     their properties.

        (e) There is no pending or threatened action, suit or proceeding by or
     before any court or governmental agency, authority or body or any
     arbitrator involving the Company or any of its subsidiaries of a character
     required to be disclosed in the Registration Statement which is not
     adequately disclosed in the Prospectus, and there is no franchise, contract
     or other document of a character required to be described in the
     Registration Statement or Prospectus, or to be filed as an exhibit thereto,
     which is not described or filed as required. The Company has no reason to
     believe that the Nevada Gaming Commission, the Nevada State Gaming Control
     Board, the Clark County Liquor and Gaming Licensing Board or any other
     governmental agencies are investigating the Company or any related parties,
     other than in ordinary course administrative reviews or in any ordinary
     course review of the transactions contemplated herein.

                                       3
<PAGE>
 
        (f) Except as disclosed in or specifically contemplated by the
     Prospectus, the Company and its subsidiaries have sufficient trademarks,
     trade names, patent rights, copyrights, licenses, approvals and
     governmental authorizations (including, without limitation, all
     authorizations from Nevada gaming and liquor authorities) to conduct their
     businesses as now conducted; the Company's and its subsidiaries'
     controlling persons, key employees and stockholders have all necessary
     permits, licenses and other authorizations required by applicable law for
     the Company and its subsidiaries to conduct their businesses as now
     conducted; the expiration of any trademarks, trade names, patent rights,
     copyrights, licenses, approvals or government authorizations would not have
     a material adverse effect on the condition (financial or otherwise),
     business, results of operations or prospects of the Company or its
     subsidiaries; the Company has no knowledge that any of its stockholders is
     unsuitable or may be deemed unsuitable by the Nevada Gaming Commission or
     the Nevada State Gaming Control Board.

        (g) The Company and its subsidiaries are conducting business in
     compliance with all applicable laws, rules and regulations of the
     jurisdictions in which they are conducting business, including, without
     limitation, all applicable local, state and federal gaming, liquor and
     environmental laws and regulations, except where the failure to be so in
     compliance would not materially adversely affect the condition (financial
     or otherwise), business, results of operations or prospects of the Company
     and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole.

        Any certificate signed by any officer of the Company and delivered to
the Representatives or counsel for the Underwriters in connection with the
offering of the Securities shall be deemed a representation and warranty by the
Company, as to matters covered thereby, to each Underwriter.

         2.  Purchase and Sale. Subject to the terms and conditions and in 
             -----------------
reliance upon the representations and warranties herein set forth, the Company
agrees to sell to each Underwriter, and each Underwriter agrees, severally and
not jointly, to purchase from the Company, at a purchase price of $ __ per
share, the amount of the Underwritten Securities set forth opposite such
Underwriter's name in Schedule I hereto.

        (a)  Subject to the terms and conditions and in reliance upon the
     representations and warranties herein set forth, the Company hereby grants
     an option to the several Underwriters to purchase, severally and not
     jointly, up to 450,000 shares of Option Securities at the same purchase
     price per share as the Underwriters shall pay for the Underwritten
     Securities.  Said option may be exercised only to cover over-allotments in
     the sale of the Underwritten Securities by the Underwriters.  Said option
     may be exercised in whole or in part at any time (but not more than once)
     on or before the 30th day after the date of the Prospectus upon written or
     telegraphic notice by the Representatives to the Company setting forth the
     number of shares of the Option Securities as to which the several
     Underwriters are exercising the option and the settlement date.  Delivery
     of certificates for the shares of Option Securities, and payment therefor,
     shall be made as provided in Section 3 hereof.  The number of shares of the
     Option Securities to be purchased by each Underwriter shall be the same
     percentage of 
 

                                       4
<PAGE>
 
     the total number of shares of the Option Securities to be
     purchased by the several Underwriters as such Underwriter is purchasing of
     the Underwritten Securities, subject to such adjustments as you in your
     absolute discretion shall make to eliminate any fractional shares.

        3.  Delivery and Payment.  Delivery of and payment for the Underwritten
            --------------------
Securities and the Option Securities (if the option provided for in Section 2(b)
hereof shall have been exercised on or before the third Business Day prior to
the Closing Date) shall be made at 10:00 AM, New York City time, on November __,
1997, or at such time on such later date not more than three Business Days after
the foregoing date as the Representatives shall designate, which date and time
may be postponed by agreement between the Representatives and the Company or as
provided in Section 9 hereof (such date and time of delivery and payment for the
Securities being herein called the "Closing Date").  Delivery of the Securities
shall be made to the Representatives for the respective accounts of the several
Underwriters against payment by the several Underwriters through the
Representatives of the purchase price thereof to or upon the order of the
Company by wire transfer payable in same-day funds to an account specified by
the Company.  Delivery of the Underwritten Securities and the Option Securities
shall be made through the facilities of The Depository Trust Company unless the
Representatives shall otherwise instruct.

        If the option provided for in Section 2(b) hereof is exercised after
the third Business Day prior to the Closing Date, the Company will deliver the
Option Securities (at the expense of the Company) to the Representatives on the
date specified by the Representatives (which shall be within three Business Days
after exercise of said option), against payment by the several Underwriters
through the Representatives of the purchase price thereof to or upon the order
of the Company by wire transfer payable in same-day funds to an account
specified by the Company.  Delivery of the Underwritten Securities and the
Option Securities shall be made through the facilities of The Depository Trust
Company unless the Representatives shall otherwise instruct.  If settlement for
the Option Securities occurs after the Closing Date, the Company will deliver to
the Representatives on the settlement date for the Option Securities, and the
obligation of the Underwriters to purchase the Option Securities shall be
conditioned upon receipt of, supplemental opinions, certificates and letters
confirming as of such date the opinions, certificates and letters delivered on
the Closing Date pursuant to Section 6 hereof.

        4. Offering by Underwriters. It is understood that the several
          ------------------------ 
 Underwriters propose to offer the Securities for sale to the public as set
 forth in the Prospectus.

        5.  Agreements.  The Company agrees with the several Underwriters that:
            ----------         
        (a) The Company will use its best efforts to cause the Registration
     Statement, if not effective at the Execution Time, and any amendment
     thereof, to become effective. Prior to the termination of the offering of
     the Securities, the Company will not file any amendment of the Registration
     Statement or supplement to the Prospectus or any Rule 462(b) Registration
     Statement unless the Company has furnished you a copy for your review prior
     to filing and will not file any such proposed amendment or supplement to
     which you reasonably and timely object. Subject to the foregoing sentence,
     if the 

                                       5
<PAGE>
 
     Registration Statement has become or becomes effective pursuant to
     Rule 430A, or filing of the Prospectus is otherwise required under Rule
     424(b), the Company will cause the Prospectus, properly completed, and any
     supplement thereto to be filed with the Commission pursuant to the
     applicable paragraph of Rule 424(b) within the time period prescribed and
     will provide evidence satisfactory to the Representatives of such timely
     filing. The Company will promptly advise the Representatives (i) when the
     Registration Statement, if not effective at the Execution Time, shall have
     become effective, (ii) when the Prospectus, and any supplement thereto,
     shall have been filed (if required) with the Commission pursuant to Rule
     424(b) or when any Rule 462(b) Registration Statement shall have been filed
     with the Commission, (iii) when, prior to termination of the offering of
     the Securities, any amendment to the Registration Statement shall have been
     filed or become effective, (iv) of any request by the Commission or its
     staff for any amendment of the Registration Statement, or any Rule 462(b)
     Registration Statement, or for any supplement to the Prospectus or of any
     additional information, (v) of the issuance by the Commission of any stop
     order suspending the effectiveness of the Registration Statement or the
     institution or threatening of any proceeding for that purpose and (vi) of
     the receipt by the Company of any notification with respect to the
     suspension of the qualification of the Securities for sale in any
     jurisdiction or the initiation or threatening of any proceeding for such
     purpose. The Company will use its best efforts to prevent the issuance of
     any such stop order or the suspension of any such qualification and, if
     issued, to obtain as soon as possible the withdrawal thereof.

        (b) If, at any time when a prospectus relating to the Securities is
     required to be delivered under the Act, any event occurs as a result of
     which the Prospectus as then supplemented would include any untrue
     statement of a material fact or omit to state any material fact necessary
     to make the statements therein in the light of the circumstances under
     which they were made not misleading, or if it shall be necessary to amend
     the Registration Statement or supplement the Prospectus to comply with the
     Act or the Exchange Act or the respective rules thereunder, the Company
     promptly will (i) prepare and file with the Commission, subject to the
     second sentence of paragraph (a) of this Section 5, an amendment or
     supplement which will correct such statement or omission or effect such
     compliance and (ii) supply any supplemented Prospectus to you in such
     quantities as you may reasonably request.

        (c) As soon as practicable, the Company will make generally available to
     its security holders and to the Representatives an earnings statement or
     statements of the Company and its subsidiaries which will satisfy the
     provisions of Section 11(a) of the Act and Rule 158 under the Act.

        (d)  The Company will furnish to the Representatives and counsel for the
     Underwriters, without charge, conformed copies of the Registration
     Statement (including exhibits thereto) and to each other Underwriter a copy
     of the Registration Statement (without exhibits thereto) and, so long as
     delivery of a prospectus by an Underwriter or dealer may be required by the
     Act, as many copies of each Preliminary Prospectus and the Prospectus and
     any supplement thereto as the Representatives may reasonably request.  

                                       6
<PAGE>
 
     The Company will pay one-half of the expenses of printing or other
     production of all documents relating to the offering.

        (e) The Company will arrange, if necessary, for the qualification of the
     Securities for sale under the laws of such jurisdictions as the
     Representatives may designate, will maintain such qualifications in effect
     so long as required for the distribution of the Securities and will pay any
     fee of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc., in connection
     with its review of the offering.

        (f) The Company will not, for a period of 120 days following the
     Execution Time, without the prior written consent of Salomon Brothers Inc,
     offer, sell or contract to sell, or otherwise dispose of (or enter into any
     transaction which is designed to, or could be expected to, result in the
     disposition (whether by actual disposition or effective economic
     disposition due to cash settlement or otherwise) by the Company or any
     affiliate of the Company or any person in private with the Company or any
     affiliate of the Company) directly or indirectly, or announce the offering
     of, any other shares of Common Stock or any securities convertible into, or
     exchangeable for, shares of Common Stock; provided, however, that the
                                               ------------------
     Company may issue Common Stock issuable upon the conversion of securities
     or the exercise of options that are (i) outstanding at the Execution Time
     or (ii) issued pursuant to employee stock option plans existing at the
     Execution Time.

        6.  Conditions to the Obligations of the Underwriters.  The obligations
of the Underwriters to purchase the Underwritten Securities and the Option
Securities, as the case may be, shall be subject to the accuracy of the
representations and warranties on the part of the Company contained herein as of
the Execution Time, the Closing Date and any settlement date pursuant to Section
3 hereof, to the accuracy of the statements of the Company made in any
certificates pursuant to the provisions hereof, to the performance by the
Company of its obligations hereunder and to the following additional conditions:

        (a)  If the Registration Statement has not become effective prior to the
     Execution Time, unless the Representatives agree in writing to a later
     time, the Registration Statement will become effective not later than (i)
     6:00 PM New York City time, on the date of determination of the public
     offering price, if such determination occurred at or prior to 3:00 PM New
     York City time on such date or (ii) 9:30 AM on the Business Day following
     the day on which the public offering price was determined, if such
     determination occurred after 3:00 PM New York City time on such date; if
     filing of the Prospectus, or any supplement thereto, is required pursuant
     to Rule 424(b), the Prospectus, and any such supplement, will be filed in
     the manner and within the time period required by Rule 424(b); and no stop
     order suspending the effectiveness of the Registration Statement shall have
     been issued and no proceedings for that purpose shall have been instituted
     or threatened.

        (b) The Company shall have furnished to the Representatives the opinion
     of Kummer Kaempfer Bonner & Renshaw, counsel for the Company, dated the
     Closing Date, to the effect that:

                                       7
<PAGE>
 
        (i) each of the Company and Rio Properties, Inc. a Nevada corporation,
     and [the entity holding the golf course] (individually a "Subsidiary" and
     collectively the "Subsidiaries") has been duly incorporated and is validly
     existing as a corporation in good standing under the laws of the
     jurisdiction in which it is chartered or organized, with full corporate
     power and authority to own its properties and conduct its business as
     described in the Prospectus, and is duly qualified to do business as a
     foreign corporation and is in good standing under the laws of each
     jurisdiction which requires such qualification wherein it owns or leases
     material properties or conducts material business and where the failure to
     be so qualified would have a material adverse affect on the operations of
     the Company;

        (ii) all the outstanding shares of capital stock of each Subsidiary have
     been duly and validly authorized and issued and are fully paid and
     nonassessable, and, except as otherwise set forth in the Prospectus, all
     outstanding shares of capital stock of the Subsidiaries are owned by the
     Company directly free and clear of any perfected security interest and, to
     the knowledge of such counsel, any other security interests, claims, liens
     or encumbrances;

        (iii) the Company's authorized equity capitalization is as set forth in
     the Prospectus; the capital stock of the Company conforms in all material
     respects to the description thereof contained in the Prospectus; the
     outstanding shares of Common Stock have been duly and validly authorized
     and issued and are fully paid and nonassessable; the Securities have been
     duly and validly authorized, and, when issued and delivered to and paid for
     by the Underwriters pursuant to this Agreement, will be fully paid and
     nonassessable; the Securities have been duly authorized for listing,
     subject to official notice of issuance, on the New York Stock Exchange; the
     certificates for the Securities are in valid and sufficient form; and the
     holders of outstanding shares of capital stock of the Company are not
     entitled to preemptive or other rights to subscribe for the Securities;
     and, except as set forth in the Prospectus, no options, warrants or other
     rights to purchase, agreements or other obligations to issue, or rights to
     convert any obligations into or exchange any securities for, shares of
     capital stock of or ownership interests in the Company are outstanding;

        (iv) to the knowledge of such counsel, there is no pending or threatened
     action, suit or proceeding by or before any court or governmental agency,
     authority or body or any arbitrator involving the Company or any of its
     subsidiaries of a character required to be disclosed in the Registration
     Statement which is not adequately disclosed in the Prospectus, and there is
     no franchise, contract or other document of a character required to be
     described in the Registration Statement or Prospectus, or to be filed as an
     exhibit thereto, which is not described or filed as required and none of
     the Company, the Subsidiaries or any party related to the Company or the
     Subsidiaries is being investigated by the Nevada Gaming Commission, the
     Nevada State Gaming Control Board, the Clark County Liquor and Licensing
     Board or any other governmental agency, other than 

                                       8
<PAGE>
 
     in ordinary course administrative reviews or in any ordinary course review
     of the transactions contemplated herein; and the statements in the
     Prospectus under the headings "Business--Regulation and Licensing,"
     "Business--Legal Proceedings," "Risk Factors--Nevada Gaming Regulations,"
     and "Risk Factors--Regulatory Disposition" fairly summarize the matters
     therein described;

        (v) the Registration Statement has become effective under the Act; any
     required filing of the Prospectus, and any supplements thereto, pursuant to
     Rule 424 has been made in the manner and within the time period required by
     Rule 424(b); to the knowledge of such counsel, no stop order suspending the
     effectiveness of the Registration Statement has been issued, no proceedings
     for that purpose have been instituted or threatened and the Registration
     Statement and the Prospectus (other than the financial statements and other
     financial information contained therein, as to which such counsel need
     express no opinion) comply as to form in all material respects with the
     applicable requirements of the Act and the Exchange Act and the respective
     rules thereunder; and such counsel has no reason to believe that on the
     Effective Date or at the Execution Time the Registration Statement contains
     or contained any untrue statement of a material fact or omitted or omits to
     state any material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make
     the statements therein not misleading or that the Prospectus as of its date
     and on the Closing Date includes any untrue statement of a material fact or
     omitted or omits to state a material fact necessary to make the statements
     therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not
     misleading (in each case, other than the financial statements and other
     financial information contained therein, as to which such counsel need
     express no opinion);

        (vi) this Agreement has been duly authorized, executed and delivered by
     the Company;

        (vii) the Company is not and, after giving effect to the offering and
     sale of the Securities and the application of the proceeds thereof as
     described in the Prospectus, will not be an "investment company" as defined
     in the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended;

        (viii) no consent, approval, authorization, qualification, filing with
     or order or permit of any court or any governmental, regulatory or
     administrative agency or body is required in connection with the
     transactions contemplated herein, except such as have been obtained under
     the Act or under the Nevada Gaming Control Act and the rules and
     regulations thereunder and such as may be required under the blue sky or
     real estate syndication laws or rules of any jurisdiction in connection
     with the purchase and distribution of the Securities by the Underwriters in
     the manner contemplated in this Agreement and in the Prospectus.

        (ix) neither the issue and sale of the Securities, nor the consummation
     of any other of the transactions herein contemplated nor the fulfillment of
     the 

                                       9
<PAGE>
 
     terms hereof will conflict with, result in a breach or violation or
     imposition of any lien, charge or encumbrance upon any property or assets
     of the Company or its Subsidiaries pursuant to, the charter or by-laws of
     the Company or its subsidiaries or the terms of any indenture, contract,
     lease, mortgage, deed of trust, note agreement, loan agreement or other
     agreement, obligation, condition, covenant or instrument known to such
     counsel and to which the Company or its subsidiaries is a party or bound or
     to which its property is subject, or any statute, law, rule, regulation,
     judgment, order or decree known by us to be applicable to the Company or
     its subsidiaries of any court, regulatory body, administrative agency,
     governmental body, arbitrator or other authority having jurisdiction over
     the Company or its subsidiaries or any of its or their properties; and

        (x) no holders of securities of the Company have rights to the
     registration of such securities under the Registration Statement.

In rendering such opinion, such counsel may rely (A) as to matters involving the
application of laws of any jurisdiction other than the State of Nevada or the
Federal laws of the United States, to the extent they deem proper and specified
in such opinion, upon the opinion of other counsel of good standing whom they
believe to be reliable and who are satisfactory to counsel for the Underwriters
and (B) as to matters of fact, to the extent they deem proper, on certificates
of responsible officers of the Company and public officials. References to the
Prospectus in this paragraph (b) include any supplements thereto at the Closing
Date.

        (c) The Representatives shall have received from Cleary, Gottlieb, Steen
& Hamilton, counsel for the Underwriters, such opinion or opinions, dated the
Closing Date, with respect to the issuance and sale of the Securities, the
Registration Statement, the Prospectus (together with any supplement thereto)
and other related matters as the Representatives may reasonably require, and the
Company shall have furnished to such counsel such documents as they reasonably
request for the purpose of enabling them to pass upon such matters.

        (d) The Company shall have furnished to the Representatives a
certificate of the Company, signed by the Chairman of the Board or the President
and the principal financial or accounting officer of the Company, dated the
Closing Date, to the effect that the signers of such certificate have carefully
examined the Registration Statement, the Prospectus, any supplements to the
Prospectus and this Agreement and that:

           (i) the representations and warranties of the Company in this
        Agreement are true and correct in all material respects on and as of the
        Closing Date with the same effect as if made on the Closing Date and the
        Company has complied with all the agreements and satisfied all the
        conditions on its part to be performed or satisfied at or prior to the
        Closing Date;

                                       10
<PAGE>
 
           (ii) no stop order suspending the effectiveness of the Registration
        Statement has been issued and no proceedings for that purpose have been
        instituted or, to the Company's knowledge, threatened; and

           (iii) since the date of the most recent financial statements included
        in the Prospectus (exclusive of any supplement thereto), there has been
        no material adverse change in the condition (financial or otherwise),
        prospects, earnings, business or properties of the Company and its
        subsidiaries, taken as a whole, whether or not arising from transactions
        in the ordinary course of business, except as set forth in or
        contemplated in the Prospectus (exclusive of any supplement thereto).

        (e) At the Execution Time and at the Closing Date, Arthur Andersen LLP
     shall have furnished to the Representatives letters, dated respectively as
     of the Execution Time and as of the Closing Date, in form and substance
     satisfactory to the Representatives, confirming that they are independent
     accountants within the meaning of the Act and the Exchange Act and the
     respective applicable published rules and regulations thereunder and that
     they have performed a review of the unaudited interim financial information
     of the Company for the three-month period ended March 31, 1997, the six
     month period ended June 30, 1997 and the nine-month period ended September
     30, 1997, and as at September 30, 1997, in accordance with Statement on
     Accounting Standards No. 71 and stating in effect that:

          (i) in their opinion the audited financial statements and financial
        statement schedules included or incorporated in the Registration
        Statement and the Prospectus and reported on by them comply in form in
        all material respects with the applicable accounting requirements of the
        Act and the Exchange Act and the related published rules and
        regulations;

          (ii) on the basis of a reading of the latest unaudited financial
        statements made available by the Company and its subsidiaries; their
        review, in accordance with standards established under Statement on
        Auditing Standards No. 71, of the unaudited interim financial
        information; carrying out certain specified procedures (but not an
        examination in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards)
        which would not necessarily reveal matters of significance with respect
        to the comments set forth in such letter; a reading of the minutes of
        the meetings of the stockholders, directors and the audit committee of
        the Company and the Subsidiaries; and inquiries of certain officials of
        the Company who have responsibility for financial and accounting matters
        of the Company and its subsidiaries as to transactions and events
        subsequent to December 31, 1996, nothing came to their attention which
        caused them to believe that:

               (1) any unaudited financial statements included or incorporated
          in the Registration Statement and the Prospectus do not comply in form
          in all material respects with applicable accounting requirements and
          with the published rules and regulations of the Commission with
          respect to

                                       11
<PAGE>
 
        financial statements included or incorporated in quarterly reports on
        Form 10-Q under the Exchange Act; and said unaudited financial
        statements are not in conformity with generally accepted accounting
        principles applied on a basis substantially consistent with that of the
        audited financial statements included or incorporated in the
        Registration Statement and the Prospectus;

              (2) with respect to the period subsequent to September 30, 1997,
        there were any changes, at a specified date not more than three days
        prior to the date of the letter, in the capital stock, long-term debt or
        in consolidated net current assets or stockholders' equity of the
        Company and subsidiaries as compared with the amounts shown on the
        September 30, 1997 consolidated balance sheet included or incorporated
        in the Registration Statement and the Prospectus, or for the period from
        October 1, 1997 to such specified date there were any decreases, as
        compared with the corresponding period in the preceding quarter in
        consolidated net sales, operating profit, or in the total or per-share
        amounts of net income, except in all instances for changes or decreases
        set forth in such letter, in which case the letter shall be accompanied
        by an explanation by the Company as to the significance thereof unless
        said explanation is not deemed necessary by the Representatives; or

              (3) the information, if any, included or incorporated by reference
        in the Registration Statement and Prospectus in response to Regulation
        S-K, Item 301 (Selected Financial Data), Item 302 (Supplementary 
        Financial Information), Item 402 (Executive Compensation) and Item
        503(d) (Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges) is not in conformity with
        the applicable disclosure requirements of Regulation S-K;

         (iii) they have performed certain other specified procedures as a
     result of which they determined that certain information of an accounting,
     financial or statistical nature (which is limited to accounting, financial
     or statistical information derived from the general accounting records of
     the Company and its subsidiaries) set forth in the Registration Statement
     and the Prospectus, including the information set forth under the captions
     "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
     Operations" and "Business" in the Prospectus, agrees with the accounting
     records of the Company and its subsidiaries, excluding any questions of
     legal interpretation.

     References to the Prospectus in this paragraph (e) include any
     supplement thereto at the date of the letter.

     (f)  Subsequent to the Execution Time or, if earlier, the dates as of which
information is given in the Registration Statement (exclusive of any
amendment thereof) and the Prospectus (exclusive of any supplement
thereto), there shall not have been 

                                       12
<PAGE>
 
     (i) any change or decrease specified in the letter or letters referred to
     in paragraph (e) of this Section 6 or (ii) any change, or any development
     involving a prospective change, in or affecting the condition (financial or
     otherwise), earnings, business or properties of the Company and its
     subsidiaries, taken as a whole, whether or not arising from transactions in
     the ordinary course of business, except as set forth in or contemplated in
     the Prospectus (exclusive of any supplement thereto) the effect of which,
     in any case referred to in clause (i) or (ii) above, is, in the sole
     judgment of the Representatives, so material and adverse as to make it
     impractical or inadvisable to proceed with the offering or delivery of the
     Securities as contemplated by the Registration Statement (exclusive of any
     amendment thereof) and the Prospectus (exclusive of any supplement
     thereto).

        (g)  At the Execution Time, the Company shall have furnished to the
     Representatives a letter substantially in the form of Exhibit A hereto from
     each executive officer and director of the Company addressed to the
     Representatives, in which each such person agrees not to offer, sell,
     contract to sell, pledge or otherwise dispose of, or file a registration
     statement with the Commission in respect of, or establish or increase a put
     equivalent position or liquidate or decrease a call equivalent position
     within the meaning of Section 16 of the Exchange Act with respect to, any
     shares of capital stock of the Company or any securities convertible into
     or exercisable or exchangeable for such capital stock, or publicly announce
     an intention to effect any such transaction, for a period of 120 days after
     the date of this Agreement, other than (i) any shares of Common Stock to be
     sold hereunder, (ii) any option or warrant or the conversion of a security
     outstanding on the date hereof and referred to in the Prospectus to which
     this Agreement relates and (iii) other than shares of Common Stock disposed
     of as bona fide gifts approved by Salomon Brothers Inc (provided that
     requests for such approval shall be acted upon promptly).

        (h)  Subsequent to the Execution Time, there shall not have been any
     decrease in the rating of any of the Company's debt securities by any
     "nationally recognized statistical rating organization" (as defined for
     purposes of Rule 436(g) under the Act) or any notice given of any intended
     or potential decrease in any such rating or of a possible change in any
     such rating that does not indicate the direction of the possible change.

        (i)  The Company shall have caused the Securities to be eligible for
     trading on upon issuance.

        (j)  On the Closing Date, the Company shall have furnished to the
     Representatives evidence satisfactory to the Representatives of the payment
     of at least $_____ million of the principal amount outstanding under the
     Rio Bank Loan (as defined in the Prospectus).

        (k)  Prior to the Closing Date, the Company shall have furnished to
     the Representatives such further information, certificates and documents as
     the Representatives may reasonably request.

          If any of the conditions specified in this Section 6 shall not have
been fulfilled in all material respects when and as provided in this Agreement,
or if any of the opinions and 

                                       13
<PAGE>
 
certificates mentioned above or elsewhere in this Agreement shall not be in all
material respects reasonably satisfactory in form and substance to the
Representatives and counsel for the Underwriters, this Agreement and all
obligations of the Underwriters hereunder may be canceled at, or at any time
prior to, the Closing Date by the Representatives. Notice of such cancellation
shall be given to the Company in writing or by telephone or facsimile confirmed
in writing.

        7.  Reimbursement of Underwriters' Expenses.  If the sale of the 
            ----------------------------------------    
Securities provided for herein is not consummated because any condition to the
obligations of the Underwriters set forth in Section 6 hereof is not satisfied,
because of any termination pursuant to Section 10 hereof or because of any
refusal, inability or failure on the part of the Company to perform any
agreement herein or comply with any provision hereof other than by reason of a
default by any of the Underwriters, the Company will reimburse the Underwriters
severally through Salomon Brothers Inc on demand for all reasonable out-of-
pocket expenses (including reasonable fees and disbursements of counsel) that
shall have been incurred by them in connection with the proposed purchase and
sale of the Securities.

        8. Indemnification and Contribution. (a) The Company agrees to indemnify
           --------------------------------
and hold harmless each Underwriter, the directors, officers, employees and
agents of each Underwriter and each person who controls any Underwriter within
the meaning of either the Act or the Exchange Act against any and all losses,
claims, damages or liabilities, joint or several, to which they or any of them
may become subject under the Act, the Exchange Act or other Federal or state
statutory law or regulation, at common law or otherwise, insofar as such losses,
claims, damages or liabilities (or actions in respect thereof) arise out of or
are based upon any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material
fact contained in the registration statement for the registration of the
Securities as originally filed or in any amendment thereof, or in any
Preliminary Prospectus or the Prospectus, or in any amendment thereof or
supplement thereto, or arise out of or are based upon the omission or alleged
omission to state therein a material fact required to be stated therein or
necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, and agrees to reimburse
each such indemnified party, as incurred, for any legal or other expenses
reasonably incurred by them in connection with investigating or defending any
such loss, claim, damage, liability or action; provided, however, that the
                                               --------  -------   
Company will not be liable in any such case to the extent that any such loss,
claim, damage or liability arises out of or is based upon any such untrue
statement or alleged untrue statement or omission or alleged omission made
therein in reliance upon and in conformity with written information furnished to
the Company by or on behalf of any Underwriter through the Representatives
specifically for inclusion therein. This indemnity agreement will be in addition
to any liability which the Company may otherwise have.
 
        (b) Each Underwriter severally agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the
     Company, each of its directors, each of its officers who signs the
     Registration Statement, and each person who controls the Company within the
     meaning of either the Act or the Exchange Act, to the same extent as the
     foregoing indemnity from the Company to each Underwriter, but only with
     reference to written information relating to such Underwriter furnished to
     the Company by or on behalf of such Underwriter through the Representatives
     specifically for inclusion in the documents referred to in the foregoing
     indemnity. This indemnity agreement will be in addition to any liability
     which any Underwriter may otherwise have. The Company acknowledges that the
     statements set 

                                       14
<PAGE>
 
     forth in the last paragraph of the cover page regarding
     delivery of the Securities, the stabilization legend in block capital
     letters on page 2 and, under the heading "Underwriting", (i) the sentences
     related to concessions and reallowances and (ii) the paragraph related to
     stabilization in any Preliminary Prospectus and the Prospectus constitute
     the only information furnished in writing by or on behalf of the several
     Underwriters for inclusion in any Preliminary Prospectus or the Prospectus.

        (c) Promptly after receipt by an indemnified party under this Section 8
     of notice of the commencement of any action, such indemnified party will,
     if a claim in respect thereof is to be made against the indemnifying party
     under this Section 8, notify the indemnifying party in writing of the
     commencement thereof; but the failure so to notify the indemnifying party
     (i) will not relieve it from liability under paragraph (a) or (b) above
     unless and to the extent it did not otherwise learn of such action and such
     failure results in the forfeiture by the indemnifying party of substantial
     rights and defenses and (ii) will not, in any event, relieve the
     indemnifying party from any obligations to any indemnified party other than
     the indemnification obligation provided in paragraph (a) or (b) above. The
     indemnifying party shall be entitled to appoint counsel of the indemnifying
     party's choice at the indemnifying party's expense to represent the
     indemnified party in any action for which indemnification is sought (in
     which case the indemnifying party shall not thereafter be responsible for
     the fees and expenses of any separate counsel retained by the indemnified
     party or parties except as set forth below);  provided, however, that such
                                                  -------------------
     counsel shall be satisfactory to the indemnified party.  Notwithstanding
     the indemnifying party's election to appoint counsel to represent the
     indemnified party in an action, the indemnified party shall have the right
     to employ separate counsel (including local counsel), and the indemnifying
     party shall bear the reasonable fees, costs and expenses of such separate
     counsel if (i) the use of counsel chosen by the indemnifying party to
     represent the indemnified party would present such counsel with a conflict
     of interest, (ii) the actual or potential defendants in, or targets of, any
     such action include both the indemnified party and the indemnifying party
     and the indemnified party shall have reasonably concluded that there may be
     legal defenses available to it and/or other indemnified parties which are
     different from or additional to those available to the indemnifying party,
     (iii) the indemnifying party shall not have employed counsel satisfactory
     to the indemnified party to represent the indemnified party within a
     reasonable time after notice of the institution of such action or (iv) the
     indemnifying party shall authorize the indemnified party to employ separate
     counsel at the expense of the indemnifying party.  An indemnifying party
     will not, without the prior written consent of the indemnified parties,
     settle or compromise or consent to the entry of any judgment with respect
     to any pending or threatened claim, action, suit or proceeding in respect
     of which indemnification or contribution may be sought hereunder (whether
     or not the indemnified parties are actual or potential parties to such
     claim or action) unless such settlement, compromise or consent includes an
     unconditional release of each indemnified party from all liability arising
     out of such claim, action, suit or proceeding.

        (d) In the event that the indemnity provided in paragraph (a) or (b) of
     this Section 8 is unavailable to or insufficient to hold harmless an
     indemnified party for any reason, the Company and the Underwriters agree to
     contribute to the aggregate losses, 

                                       15
<PAGE>
 
     claims, damages and liabilities (including legal or other expenses
     reasonably incurred in connection with investigating or defending same)
     (collectively "Losses") to which the Company and one or more of the
     Underwriters may be subject in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect
     the relative benefits received by the Company and by the Underwriters from
     the offering of the Securities; provided, however, that in no case shall
                                     --------  -------
     any Underwriter (except as may be provided in any agreement among
     underwriters relating to the offering of the Securities) be responsible for
     any amount in excess of the underwriting discount or commission applicable
     to the Securities purchased by such Underwriter hereunder. If the
     allocation provided by the immediately preceding sentence is unavailable
     for any reason, the Company and the Underwriters shall contribute in such
     proportion as is appropriate to reflect not only such relative benefits but
     also the relative fault of the Company and of the Underwriters in
     connection with the statements or omissions which resulted in such Losses
     as well as any other relevant equitable considerations. Benefits received
     by the Company shall be deemed to be equal to the total net proceeds from
     the offering (before deducting expenses) received by it, and benefits
     received by the Underwriters shall be deemed to be equal to the total
     underwriting discounts and commissions, in each case as set forth on the
     cover page of the Prospectus. Relative fault shall be determined by
     reference to, among other things, whether any untrue or any alleged untrue
     statement of a material fact or the omission or alleged omission to state a
     material fact relates to information provided by the Company on the one
     hand or the Underwriters on the other, the intent of the parties and their
     relative knowledge, access to information and opportunity to correct or
     prevent such untrue statement or omission. The Company and the Underwriters
     agree that it would not be just and equitable if contribution were
     determined by pro rata allocation or any other method of allocation which
     does not take account of the equitable considerations referred to above.
     Notwithstanding the provisions of this paragraph (d), no person guilty of
     fraudulent misrepresentation (within the meaning of Section 11(f) of the
     Act) shall be entitled to contribution from any person who was not guilty
     of such fraudulent misrepresentation. For purposes of this Section 8, each
     person who controls an Underwriter within the meaning of either the Act or
     the Exchange Act and each director, officer, employee and agent of an
     Underwriter shall have the same rights to contribution as such Underwriter,
     and each person who controls the Company within the meaning of either the
     Act or the Exchange Act, each officer of the Company who shall have signed
     the Registration Statement and each director of the Company shall have the
     same rights to contribution as the Company, subject in each case to the
     applicable terms and conditions of this paragraph (d).

        9. Default by an Underwriter. If any one or more Underwriters shall fail
           -------------------------
to purchase and pay for any of the Securities agreed to be purchased by such
Underwriter or Underwriters hereunder and such failure to purchase shall
constitute a default in the performance of its or their obligations under this
Agreement, the remaining Underwriters shall be obligated severally to take up
and pay for (in the respective proportions which the amount of Securities set
forth opposite their names in Schedule I hereto bears to the aggregate amount of
Securities set forth opposite the names of all the remaining Underwriters) the
Securities which the defaulting Underwriter or Underwriters agreed but failed to
purchase; provided, however, that in the event
          --------  -------

                                       16
<PAGE>
 
that the aggregate amount of Securities which the defaulting Underwriter or
Underwriters agreed but failed to purchase shall exceed 10% of the aggregate
amount of Securities set forth in Schedule I hereto, the remaining Underwriters
shall have the right to purchase all, but shall not be under any obligation to
purchase any, of the Securities, and if such nondefaulting Underwriters do not
purchase all the Securities, this Agreement will terminate without liability to
any nondefaulting Underwriter or the Company. In the event of a default by any
Underwriter as set forth in this Section 9, the Closing Date shall be postponed
for such period, not exceeding five Business Days, as the Representatives shall
determine in order that the required changes in the Registration Statement and
the Prospectus or in any other documents or arrangements may be effected.
Nothing contained in this Agreement shall relieve any defaulting Underwriter of
its liability, if any, to the Company and any nondefaulting Underwriter for
damages occasioned by its default hereunder.

        10.  Termination. This Agreement shall be subject to termination in the 
             -----------
absolute discretion of the Representatives, by notice given to the Company prior
to delivery of and payment for the Securities, if at any time prior to such time
(i) trading in the Company's Common Stock shall have been suspended by the
Commission or the New York Stock Exchange or trading in securities generally on
the New York Stock Exchange shall have been suspended or limited (including
pursuant to the circuit breaker rules) or minimum prices shall have been
established on such Exchange, (ii) a banking moratorium shall have been declared
either by Federal or New York State authorities or (iii) there shall have
occurred any outbreak or escalation of hostilities, declaration by the United
States of a national emergency or war or other calamity or crisis the effect of
which on financial markets is such as to make it, in the sole judgment of the
Representatives, impractical or inadvisable to proceed with the offering or
delivery of the Securities as contemplated by the Prospectus (exclusive of any
supplement thereto).

        11. Representations and Indemnities to Survive. The respective
            ------------------------------------------
agreements, representations, warranties, indemnities and other statements of the
Company or its officers and of the Underwriters set forth in or made pursuant to
this Agreement will remain in full force and effect, regardless of any
investigation made by or on behalf of any Underwriter or the Company or any of
the officers, directors or controlling persons referred to in Section 8 hereof,
and will survive delivery of and payment for the Securities. The provisions of
Sections 7 and 8 hereof shall survive the termination or cancellation of this
Agreement.

        12. Notices. All communications hereunder will be in writing and
            ------- 
effective only on receipt, and, if sent to the Representatives, will be mailed,
delivered or telefaxed to the Salomon Brothers Inc, General Counsel (fax no.:
(212) 783-1752) and confirmed to the General Counsel, care of Salomon Brothers
Inc, at Seven World Trade Center, New York, New York, 10048, Attention: General
Counsel; or, if sent to the Company, will be mailed, delivered or telefaxed to
- -------------------
                    [facsimile number] and confirmed to it at, attention of 
the Legal Department.

        13. Successors. This Agreement will inure to the benefit of and be
            ----------
binding upon the parties hereto and their respective successors and the officers
and directors and controlling persons referred to in Section 8 hereof, and no
other person will have any right or obligation hereunder.

                                       17
<PAGE>
 
        14. Applicable Law. This Agreement will be governed by and construed in
            --------------
accordance with the laws of the State of New York.

        15. Counterparts. This Agreement may be signed in one or more
            ------------
counterparts, each of which shall constitute an original and all of which
together shall constitute one and the same agreement.

        16. Headings. The section headings used herein are for convenience only
            --------
and shall not affect the construction hereof.

        17. Definitions. The terms which follow, when used in this Agreement,
            -----------
shall have the meanings indicated.

          "Act" shall mean the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

          "Business Day" shall mean any day other than a Saturday, a Sunday or a
     legal holiday or a day on which banking institutions or trust companies are
     authorized or obligated by law to close in New York City.

          "Effective Date" shall mean each date and time that the Registration
     Statement, any post-effective amendment or amendments thereto and any Rule
     462(b) Registration Statement became or become effective.

          "Exchange Act" shall mean the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
     amended.

          "Execution Time" shall mean the date and time that this Agreement is
     executed and delivered by the parties hereto.

          "Preliminary Prospectus" shall mean any preliminary prospectus
     referred to in paragraph 1(a) above and any preliminary prospectus included
     in the Registration Statement at the Effective Date that omits Rule 430A
     Information.

          "Prospectus" shall mean the prospectus relating to the Securities that
     is first filed pursuant to Rule 424(b) after the Execution Time or, if no
     filing pursuant to Rule 424(b) is required, shall mean the form of final
     prospectus relating to the Securities included in the Registration
     Statement at the Effective Date.

          "Registration Statement" shall mean the registration statement
     referred to in paragraph 1(a) above, including exhibits and financial
     statements, as amended at the Execution Time (or, if not effective at the
     Execution Time, in the form in which it shall become effective) and, in the
     event any post-effective amendment thereto or any Rule 462(b) Registration
     Statement becomes effective prior to the Closing Date (as hereinafter
     defined), shall also mean such registration statement as so amended or such
     Rule 462(b) Registration Statement, as the case may be.  Such term shall
     include any Rule 430A Information deemed to be included therein at the
     Effective Date as provided by Rule 430A.

                                       18
<PAGE>
 
          "Rule 424", "Rule 430A" and "Rule 462" refer to such rules promulgated
     under the Act.

          "Rule 430A Information" shall mean information with respect to the
     Securities and the offering thereof permitted to be omitted from the
     Registration Statement when it becomes effective pursuant to Rule 430A.

          "Rule 462(b) Registration Statement" shall mean a registration
     statement and any amendments thereto filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) relating
     to the offering covered by the initial registration statement.

          "United States or Canadian Person" shall mean any person who is a
     national or resident of the United States or Canada, any corporation,
     partnership, or other entity created or organized in or under the laws of
     the United States or Canada or of any political subdivision thereof, or any
     estate or trust the income of which is subject to United States or Canadian
     Federal income taxation, regardless of its source (other than any non-
     United States or non-Canadian branch of any United States or Canadian
     Person), and shall include any United States or Canadian branch of a person
     other than a United States or Canadian Person.  "U.S." or "United States"
     shall mean the United States of America (including the states thereof and
     the District of Columbia), its territories, its possessions and other areas
     subject to its jurisdiction.

        18. Canada. Each of the Underwriters hereby covenants and agrees that it
            ------
will not distribute the Securities in such a manner as to require the filing of
a prospectus or similar document (excluding a private placement offering
memorandum) with respect to the Securities under the laws of any Province or
Territory in Canada.

        If the foregoing is in accordance with your understanding of our
agreement, please sign and return to us the enclosed duplicate hereof, whereupon
this letter and your  acceptance shall represent a binding agreement among the
Company and the several Underwriters.

                                       Very truly yours,

                                       Rio Hotel & Casino, Inc.

                                       By:
                                          --------------------------------
                                          Name:
                                          Title:

The foregoing Agreement is hereby
confirmed and accepted as of the
date first above written.

                                       19
<PAGE>
 
Salomon Brothers Inc
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated

By:  Salomon Brothers Inc

By:
   -------------------------
         Vice President

For themselves and the other
several Underwriters named in
Schedule I to the foregoing
Agreement.

                                       20
<PAGE>
 
                                   SCHEDULE I
                                   ----------
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 

                                                           NUMBER OF SHARES  
                                                                TO BE        
UNDERWRITERS                                                  PURCHASED      
- ------------                                              -------------------
<S>                                                       <C>                 
Salomon Brothers Inc...................................
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated.....

 
                                                          --------------------
                    TOTAL                                      3,000,000
</TABLE> 

<PAGE>
 
                                                                       EXHIBIT A

            [Letterhead of officer, director or major shareholder of

                            Rio Hotel & Casino, Inc.

                            Rio Hotel & Casino, Inc.
                        Public Offering of Common Stock
                        -------------------------------

                                                                            , 19

Salomon Brothers Inc
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated
As Representatives of the several Underwriters,
c/o Salomon Brothers Inc
Seven World Trade Center
New York, New York 10048

Ladies and Gentlemen:

          This letter is being delivered to you in connection with the proposed
Underwriting Agreement (the "Underwriting Agreement"), between Rio Hotel &
Casino, Inc., a Nevada Corporation (the "Company"), and each of you as
representatives of a group of Underwriters named therein, relating to an
underwritten public offering of Common Stock, $.01 par value (the "Common
Stock"), of the Company.

          In order to induce you and the other Underwriters to enter into the
Underwriting Agreement, the undersigned will not, without the prior written
consent of Salomon Brothers Inc, offer, sell, contract to sell, pledge or
otherwise dispose of, or file a registration statement with the Commission in
respect of, or establish or increase a put equivalent position or liquidate or
decrease a call equivalent position within the meaning of Section 16 of the
Exchange Act with respect to, any shares of capital stock of the Company or any
securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for such capital
stock, or publicly announce an intention to effect any such transaction, for a
period of 120 days after the date of this Agreement, other than (i) any shares
of Common Stock to be sold hereunder, (ii) any option or warrant or the
conversion of a security outstanding on the date hereof and referred to in the
Prospectus to which this Agreement relates and (iii) shares of Common Stock
disposed of as bona fide gifts approved by Salomon Brothers Inc (provided that
requests for such approval shall be acted upon promptly).

                                       
<PAGE>
 
          If for any reason the Underwriting Agreement shall be terminated prior
to the Closing Date (as defined in the Underwriting Agreement), the agreement
set forth above shall likewise be terminated.

                                       Yours very truly,

                                       [Signature of executive officer or 
                                       director]

                                       [Name and address of executive officer or
                                       director]

                                       

<PAGE>
 
                                                                
                                                             EXHIBIT 23.02     
                   
                CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS     
   
  As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the use of our
reports and to all references to our Firm included in or made a part of this
Registration Statement.     
                                             
                                          /s/ Arthur Andersen LLP     
                                             
                                          ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP     
   
Las Vegas, Nevada     
   
November 7, 1997     
       


© 2022 IncJournal is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission