SANTA MONICA, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Entravision (NYSE: EVC), a leading global advertising solutions, media and technology company, announced that it will release its first quarter 2023 financial results after market close on Thursday, May 4, 2023. The Company will host a conference call that day at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time to discuss the first quarter 2023 results.
To access the conference call, please dial (844) 836-8739 (U.S.) or (412) 317-5440 (International) ten minutes prior to the start time. The call will also be available via live webcast on the investor relations portion of the Company’s website located at www.entravision.com.
If you cannot listen to the conference call at its scheduled time, there will be a replay available through Thursday, May 18, 2023 which can be accessed by dialing (844) 512-2921 (U.S.) or (412) 317-6671 (International) and entering the passcode 10176751. The webcast will also be archived on the Company’s website.
About Entravision
Entravision is a global advertising solutions, media and technology company. Over the past three decades, we have strategically evolved into a digital powerhouse, expertly connecting brands to consumers in the U.S., Latin America, Europe, Asia and Africa. Our digital segment, the company’s largest by revenue, offers a full suite of end-to-end advertising services in 40 countries. We have commercial partnerships with Meta, Twitter, TikTok, and Spotify, and marketers can use our Smadex and other platforms to deliver targeted advertising to audiences around the globe. In the U.S., we maintain a diversified portfolio of television and radio stations that target Hispanic audiences and complement our global digital services. Entravision remains the largest affiliate group of the Univision and UniMás television networks. Shares of Entravision Class A Common Stock trade on the NYSE under ticker: EVC. Learn more about our offerings at entravision.com or connect with us on LinkedIn and Facebook.
Christopher T. Young Interim Chief Executive Officer Entravision 310-447-3870
NEW YORK, April 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Travelzoo® (NASDAQ: TZOO):
Revenue of $21.6 million, up 17% year-over-year
In constant currencies, revenue was $22.1 million, up 19% year-over-year
Non-GAAP consolidated operating profit of $5.5 million
Earnings per share (EPS) of $0.23
Travelzoo, a global Internet media company that provides exclusive offers and experiences for members, today announced financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2023. Consolidated revenue was $21.6 million, up 17% from $18.5 million year-over-year. In constant currencies, revenue was $22.1 million. Travelzoo’s reported revenue consists of advertising revenues and commissions, derived from and generated in connection with purchases made by Travelzoo members.
The reported net income attributable to Travelzoo from continuing operations was $3.7 million for Q1 2023. At the consolidated level, including minority interests, the reported net income from continuing operations was $3.7 million. EPS from continuing operations was $0.23, compared to $0.19 in the prior-year period.
Non-GAAP operating profit was $5.5 million. The calculation of non-GAAP operating profit excludes amortization of intangibles ($0.4 million), stock option expenses ($0.4 million) and severance-related expenses ($39,000). See section “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below.
“We will continue our strategy of leveraging Travelzoo’s global reach, trusted brand, and strong relationships with top travel suppliers to negotiate more exclusive offers for Travelzoo members,” said Holger Bartel, Travelzoo’s Global CEO. “With more than 30 million members, 8 million mobile app users, and 4 million social media followers, Travelzoo is loved by travel enthusiasts who are affluent, active, and open to new experiences.”
Cash Position As of March 31, 2023, consolidated cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash were $19.8 million. Net cash provided by operations was $535,000.
Reserve Reported revenues include a reserve of $785,000 related to commissions to be earned from vouchers sold. The reserve is initially booked as contra revenue.
Travelzoo North America North America business segment revenue increased 26% year-over-year to $14.8 million. Operating profit for Q1 2023 was $4.5 million, or 31% of revenue, compared to an operating profit of $1.7 million in the prior-year period.
Travelzoo Europe Europe business segment revenue remained consistent year-over-year at $5.9 million. At constant currencies, Europe business segment revenue increased 6% year-over-year. Operating profit for Q1 2023 was $457,000, or 8% of revenue, compared to an operating profit of $178,000 in the prior-year period.
Jack’s Flight Club Jack’s Flight Club business segment revenue increased 15% year-over-year to $948,000. Jack’s Flight Club is a membership subscription service in which Travelzoo has a 60% ownership interest. The number of premium subscribers increased 27% year-over-year. Revenue from increases in subscribers is reported with a lag because we recognize revenue from subscriptions monthly pro rata over the subscription period (quarterly, semi-annually, annually). Non-GAAP operating profit for Q1 2023 was $123,000, compared to a non-GAAP operating profit of $249,000 in the prior-year period. After consolidation with Travelzoo, Jack’s Flight Club’s net income was $20,000, with $12,000 attributable to Travelzoo as a result of recording $168,000 of amortization of intangible assets related to the acquisition.
New Initiatives New Initiatives business segment revenue, which includes Licensing and Travelzoo META, was $8,000. Operating loss for Q1 2023 was $217,000.
In June 2020, Travelzoo entered into a royalty-bearing licensing agreement with a local licensee in Japan for the exclusive use of Travelzoo’s brand, business model, and members in Japan. In August of 2020, Travelzoo entered into a royalty-bearing licensing agreement with a local licensee in Australia for the exclusive use of Travelzoo’s brand, business models, and members in Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore. Under these arrangements, Travelzoo’s existing members in Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and Singapore will continue to be owned by Travelzoo as the licensor. Licensing revenue is booked with a lag of one quarter. Travelzoo recorded $8,000 in licensing revenue from the licensee in Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore in Q1 2023. Licensing revenue is expected to increase going forward.
Members and Subscribers As of March 31, 2023, we had 30.5 million members worldwide. In North America, the unduplicated number of Travelzoo members was 16.3 million as of March 31, 2023, down 2% from March 31, 2022. In Europe, the unduplicated number of Travelzoo members was 9.1 million as of March 31, 2023, consistent with March 31, 2022. Jack’s Flight Club had 2.0 million subscribers as of March 31, 2023, up 14% from March 31, 2022.
Discontinued Operations As announced in a press release on March 10, 2020, Travelzoo decided to exit its Asia Pacific business and operate it as a licensing business going forward. Consequently, the Asia Pacific business has been classified as discontinued operations since March 31, 2020. Prior periods have been reclassified to conform with the current presentation. Certain reclassifications have been made for current and prior periods between the continued operations and the discontinued operations in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
Income Taxes A provision of $1.4 million for income taxes was recorded for Q1 2023, compared to an income tax expense of $968,000 in the prior-year period. The provision for Q1 2023 does not reflect the expected utilization of NOLs by Travelzoo in the U.S.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures Management calculates non-GAAP operating income when evaluating the financial performance of the business. Travelzoo’s calculation of non-GAAP operating income, also called “non-GAAP operating profit” in this press release and today’s earnings conference call, excludes the following items: amortization of intangibles, stock option expenses, and severance-related expenses. This press release includes a table which reconciles GAAP operating income to the calculation of non-GAAP operating income. Non-GAAP operating income is not required by, or presented in accordance with, generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”). This information should be considered as supplemental in nature and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the financial information prepared in accordance with GAAP. In addition, these non-GAAP financial measures may not be the same as similarly titled measures reported by other companies.
Looking Ahead For Q2 2023, we currently expect growth in revenue and growth in operating profit to continue year-over-year. During the pandemic, we have been able to lower our fixed costs. We believe we can keep our fixed costs relatively low in the foreseeable future.
Conference Call Travelzoo will host a conference call to discuss first quarter 2023 results today at 11:00 a.m. ET. Please visit http://ir.travelzoo.com/events-presentations to
download the management presentation (PDF format) to be discussed in the conference call
access the webcast.
About Travelzoo Travelzoo® provides its 30 million members with exclusive offers and one-of-a-kind experiences personally reviewed by our deal experts around the globe. We have our finger on the pulse of outstanding travel, entertainment, and lifestyle experiences. We work in partnership with more than 5,000 top travel suppliers—our long-standing relationships give Travelzoo members access to irresistible deals.
Certain statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts may be forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934. These forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to, statements about our plans, objectives, expectations, prospects and intentions, markets in which we participate and other statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts. When used in this press release, the words “expect”, “predict”, “project”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “intend”, “plan”, “seek” and similar expressions are generally intended to identify forward-looking statements. Because these forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, there are important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements, including changes in our plans, objectives, expectations, prospects and intentions and other factors discussed in our filings with the SEC. We cannot guarantee any future levels of activity, performance or achievements. Travelzoo undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this press release.
Travelzoo and Jack’s Flight Club are registered trademarks of Travelzoo.
TravelzooCondensed Consolidated Statements of Operations(Unaudited)(In thousands, except per share amounts)
Three months ended
March 31
2023
2022
Revenues
$ 21,601
$ 18,453
Cost of revenues
2,691
2,832
Gross profit
18,910
15,621
Operating expenses:
Sales and marketing
9,296
8,581
Product development
490
453
General and administrative
4,413
4,668
Total operating expenses
14,199
13,702
Operating income
4,711
1,919
Other income, net
350
1,423
Income from continuing operations before income taxes
5,061
3,342
Income tax expense
1,378
968
Income from continuing operations
3,683
2,374
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax
(2)
(11)
Net income
3,681
2,363
Net income attributable to non-controlling interest
8
4
Net income attributable to Travelzoo
$ 3,673
$ 2,359
Net income attributable to Travelzoo—continuing operations
$ 3,675
$ 2,370
Net loss attributable to Travelzoo—discontinued operations
$ (2)
$ (11)
Income per share—basic
Continuing operations
$ 0.23
$ 0.20
Discontinued operations
$ —
$ —
Net income per share—basic
$ 0.23
$ 0.20
Income per share—diluted
Continuing operations
$ 0.23
$ 0.19
Discontinued operations
$ —
$ —
Net income per share—diluted
$ 0.23
$ 0.19
Shares used in per share calculation from continuing operations—basic
15,697
12,056
Shares used in per share calculation from discontinued operations—basic
15,697
12,056
Shares used in per share calculation from continuing operations—diluted
15,779
12,544
Shares used in per share calculation from discontinued operations—diluted
NEW YORK, April 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Travelzoo® (NASDAQ: TZOO):
Revenue of $21.6 million, up 17% year-over-year
In constant currencies, revenue was $22.1 million, up 19% year-over-year
Non-GAAP consolidated operating profit of $5.5 million
Earnings per share (EPS) of $0.23
Travelzoo, a global Internet media company that provides exclusive offers and experiences for members, today announced financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2023. Consolidated revenue was $21.6 million, up 17% from $18.5 million year-over-year. In constant currencies, revenue was $22.1 million. Travelzoo’s reported revenue consists of advertising revenues and commissions, derived from and generated in connection with purchases made by Travelzoo members.
The reported net income attributable to Travelzoo from continuing operations was $3.7 million for Q1 2023. At the consolidated level, including minority interests, the reported net income from continuing operations was $3.7 million. EPS from continuing operations was $0.23, compared to $0.19 in the prior-year period.
Non-GAAP operating profit was $5.5 million. The calculation of non-GAAP operating profit excludes amortization of intangibles ($0.4 million), stock option expenses ($0.4 million) and severance-related expenses ($39,000). See section “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below.
“We will continue our strategy of leveraging Travelzoo’s global reach, trusted brand, and strong relationships with top travel suppliers to negotiate more exclusive offers for Travelzoo members,” said Holger Bartel, Travelzoo’s Global CEO. “With more than 30 million members, 8 million mobile app users, and 4 million social media followers, Travelzoo is loved by travel enthusiasts who are affluent, active, and open to new experiences.”
Cash Position As of March 31, 2023, consolidated cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash were $19.8 million. Net cash provided by operations was $535,000.
Reserve Reported revenues include a reserve of $785,000 related to commissions to be earned from vouchers sold. The reserve is initially booked as contra revenue.
Travelzoo North America North America business segment revenue increased 26% year-over-year to $14.8 million. Operating profit for Q1 2023 was $4.5 million, or 31% of revenue, compared to an operating profit of $1.7 million in the prior-year period.
Travelzoo Europe Europe business segment revenue remained consistent year-over-year at $5.9 million. At constant currencies, Europe business segment revenue increased 6% year-over-year. Operating profit for Q1 2023 was $457,000, or 8% of revenue, compared to an operating profit of $178,000 in the prior-year period.
Jack’s Flight Club Jack’s Flight Club business segment revenue increased 15% year-over-year to $948,000. Jack’s Flight Club is a membership subscription service in which Travelzoo has a 60% ownership interest. The number of premium subscribers increased 27% year-over-year. Revenue from increases in subscribers is reported with a lag because we recognize revenue from subscriptions monthly pro rata over the subscription period (quarterly, semi-annually, annually). Non-GAAP operating profit for Q1 2023 was $123,000, compared to a non-GAAP operating profit of $249,000 in the prior-year period. After consolidation with Travelzoo, Jack’s Flight Club’s net income was $20,000, with $12,000 attributable to Travelzoo as a result of recording $168,000 of amortization of intangible assets related to the acquisition.
New Initiatives New Initiatives business segment revenue, which includes Licensing and Travelzoo META, was $8,000. Operating loss for Q1 2023 was $217,000.
In June 2020, Travelzoo entered into a royalty-bearing licensing agreement with a local licensee in Japan for the exclusive use of Travelzoo’s brand, business model, and members in Japan. In August of 2020, Travelzoo entered into a royalty-bearing licensing agreement with a local licensee in Australia for the exclusive use of Travelzoo’s brand, business models, and members in Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore. Under these arrangements, Travelzoo’s existing members in Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and Singapore will continue to be owned by Travelzoo as the licensor. Licensing revenue is booked with a lag of one quarter. Travelzoo recorded $8,000 in licensing revenue from the licensee in Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore in Q1 2023. Licensing revenue is expected to increase going forward.
Members and Subscribers As of March 31, 2023, we had 30.5 million members worldwide. In North America, the unduplicated number of Travelzoo members was 16.3 million as of March 31, 2023, down 2% from March 31, 2022. In Europe, the unduplicated number of Travelzoo members was 9.1 million as of March 31, 2023, consistent with March 31, 2022. Jack’s Flight Club had 2.0 million subscribers as of March 31, 2023, up 14% from March 31, 2022.
Discontinued Operations As announced in a press release on March 10, 2020, Travelzoo decided to exit its Asia Pacific business and operate it as a licensing business going forward. Consequently, the Asia Pacific business has been classified as discontinued operations since March 31, 2020. Prior periods have been reclassified to conform with the current presentation. Certain reclassifications have been made for current and prior periods between the continued operations and the discontinued operations in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
Income Taxes A provision of $1.4 million for income taxes was recorded for Q1 2023, compared to an income tax expense of $968,000 in the prior-year period. The provision for Q1 2023 does not reflect the expected utilization of NOLs by Travelzoo in the U.S.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures Management calculates non-GAAP operating income when evaluating the financial performance of the business. Travelzoo’s calculation of non-GAAP operating income, also called “non-GAAP operating profit” in this press release and today’s earnings conference call, excludes the following items: amortization of intangibles, stock option expenses, and severance-related expenses. This press release includes a table which reconciles GAAP operating income to the calculation of non-GAAP operating income. Non-GAAP operating income is not required by, or presented in accordance with, generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”). This information should be considered as supplemental in nature and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the financial information prepared in accordance with GAAP. In addition, these non-GAAP financial measures may not be the same as similarly titled measures reported by other companies.
Looking Ahead For Q2 2023, we currently expect growth in revenue and growth in operating profit to continue year-over-year. During the pandemic, we have been able to lower our fixed costs. We believe we can keep our fixed costs relatively low in the foreseeable future.
Conference Call Travelzoo will host a conference call to discuss first quarter 2023 results today at 11:00 a.m. ET. Please visit http://ir.travelzoo.com/events-presentations to
download the management presentation (PDF format) to be discussed in the conference call
access the webcast.
About Travelzoo Travelzoo® provides its 30 million members with exclusive offers and one-of-a-kind experiences personally reviewed by our deal experts around the globe. We have our finger on the pulse of outstanding travel, entertainment, and lifestyle experiences. We work in partnership with more than 5,000 top travel suppliers—our long-standing relationships give Travelzoo members access to irresistible deals.
Certain statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts may be forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934. These forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to, statements about our plans, objectives, expectations, prospects and intentions, markets in which we participate and other statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts. When used in this press release, the words “expect”, “predict”, “project”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “intend”, “plan”, “seek” and similar expressions are generally intended to identify forward-looking statements. Because these forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, there are important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements, including changes in our plans, objectives, expectations, prospects and intentions and other factors discussed in our filings with the SEC. We cannot guarantee any future levels of activity, performance or achievements. Travelzoo undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this press release.
Travelzoo and Jack’s Flight Club are registered trademarks of Travelzoo.
TravelzooCondensed Consolidated Statements of Operations(Unaudited)(In thousands, except per share amounts)
Three months ended
March 31
2023
2022
Revenues
$ 21,601
$ 18,453
Cost of revenues
2,691
2,832
Gross profit
18,910
15,621
Operating expenses:
Sales and marketing
9,296
8,581
Product development
490
453
General and administrative
4,413
4,668
Total operating expenses
14,199
13,702
Operating income
4,711
1,919
Other income, net
350
1,423
Income from continuing operations before income taxes
5,061
3,342
Income tax expense
1,378
968
Income from continuing operations
3,683
2,374
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax
(2)
(11)
Net income
3,681
2,363
Net income attributable to non-controlling interest
8
4
Net income attributable to Travelzoo
$ 3,673
$ 2,359
Net income attributable to Travelzoo—continuing operations
$ 3,675
$ 2,370
Net loss attributable to Travelzoo—discontinued operations
$ (2)
$ (11)
Income per share—basic
Continuing operations
$ 0.23
$ 0.20
Discontinued operations
$ —
$ —
Net income per share—basic
$ 0.23
$ 0.20
Income per share—diluted
Continuing operations
$ 0.23
$ 0.19
Discontinued operations
$ —
$ —
Net income per share—diluted
$ 0.23
$ 0.19
Shares used in per share calculation from continuing operations—basic
15,697
12,056
Shares used in per share calculation from discontinued operations—basic
15,697
12,056
Shares used in per share calculation from continuing operations—diluted
15,779
12,544
Shares used in per share calculation from discontinued operations—diluted
CULVER CITY, Calif., April 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Snail, Inc. (Nasdaq: SNAL) (“Snail” or “the Company”), a leading, global independent developer and publisher of interactive digital entertainment, today announced that Jim Tsai, Chief Executive Officer, and Heidy Chow, Chief Financial Officer, will be participating in the Inaugural EF Hutton Global Conference on May 11, 2023, at the Plaza Hotel in New York City. Management will host one-on-one and group meetings.
The Inaugural EF Hutton Global Conference is a two-day, invitation-only event featuring key executives from approximately 150 public and private companies to convey their unique stories to a diverse audience that includes institutional investors, high-net worth individuals, corporate clients and members of the press.
To schedule a meeting with management, please contact your EF Hutton representative.
About EF Hutton EF Hutton, division of Benchmark Investments, LLC, is a global, full-service investment bank headquartered in New York, New York. EF Hutton is a division of Benchmark Investments, LLC, a subsidiary of Kingswood US, LLC, an indirect subsidiary of Kingswood Holdings Limited (AIM: KWG). The synergies and direct access to Kingswood Holdings Limited provide EF Hutton with a unique global presence and broad platform outreach to ensure success for its clients.
About Snail, Inc. Snail is a leading, global independent developer and publisher of interactive digital entertainment for consumers around the world, with a premier portfolio of premium games designed for use on a variety of platforms, including consoles, PCs and mobile devices.
Beasley Broadcast Group, Inc. owns and operates 61 stations (47 FM and 14 AM) in 15 large- and mid-size markets in the United States. Approximately 20 million consumers listen to the Company’s radio stations weekly over-the-air, online and on smartphones and tablets, and millions regularly engage with the Company’s brands and personalities through digital platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, text messaging, digital and web applications and email. The Overwatch League’s Houston Outlaws esports team is a wholly owned subsidiary. The Company also owns BeasleyXP, a national esports content hub, and AXLR-R8, a Rocket League Championship Series team, in its esports portfolio. For more information, please visit www.bbgi.com.
Michael Kupinski, Director of Research, Equity Research Analyst, Digital, Media & Technology , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Jacob Mutchler, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
Solid Q1 results. The company reported revenue of $57.8 million and adj. EBITDA of $2.8 million, beating our upwardly revised estimates by 1.8% and 6.3%, respectively. The better than expected results were driven by strong digital revenue of $10 million, an increase of 27% from the prior year period, and $4.3 million in sports betting advertising.
Robust digital growth. From Q1 2019 to Q1 2023, the company grew digital revenue at a CAGR of 30% and now Digital represents 17% of total company revenue. Given the anticipated strong digital revenue growth, management appears to be on target for Digital to be 20% to 30% of total revenue for full year 2023, and 40% in 2024.
Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.
This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).
*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision.
Takeaways from the National Association of Broadcasters’ NAB Show
All videos now live on demand!
The Takeaway Series is available exclusively to Channelchek members. It’s totally free to join the community, just click the join button at the top of the page, or the Register button below.For best results, log in to your Channelchek account above before viewing the videos.
IRVING, Texas–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Salem Media Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: SALM) today announced its participation in the Channelchek Takeaway Series from the 2023 NAB Show, to be broadcast Thursday, April 27, 2023 at 9:00 AM CT.
NAB Show is the premier event and ultimate marketplace for those seeking to create superior audio and video experiences. From creation to consumption, across multiple platforms, the NAB Show is where global visionaries convene to bring content to life in new and exciting ways. And 2023 marks NAB Show’s centennial year.
Salem Media Group Chief Executive Officer David Santrella provides a corporate overview. After that he, along with Chief Operating Officer David Evans and Chief Financial Officer Evan Masyr, participates in a fireside chat with Noble’s Senior Media & Entertainment Analyst Michael Kupinski.
The event will be broadcast at 9:00 am CT on Thursday, April 27. Investors can attend the virtual Channelchek Takeaway Series at no cost. Registration details are available on Channelchek.
ABOUT NOBLE CAPITAL MARKETS:
Noble Capital Markets, Inc. was incorporated in 1984 as a full-service SEC / FINRA registered broker-dealer, dedicated exclusively to serving underfollowed small / microcap companies through investment banking, wealth management, trading & execution, and equity research activities. Over the past 37 years, Noble has raised billions of dollars for these companies and published more than 45,000 equity research reports. www.noblecapitalmarkets.com email: [email protected]
ABOUT CHANNELCHEK:
Channelchek (.com) is a comprehensive investor-centric portal – featuring more than 6,000 emerging growth companies – that provides advanced market data, independent research, balanced news, video webcasts, exclusive c-suite interviews, and access to virtual road shows. The site is available to the public at every level without cost or obligation. Research on Channelchek is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., an SEC / FINRA registered broker-dealer since 1984. www.channelchek.com email: [email protected]
ABOUT SALEM MEDIA GROUP:
Salem Media Group is America’s leading multimedia company specializing in Christian and conservative content, with media properties comprising radio, digital media and book and newsletter publishing. Each day Salem serves a loyal and dedicated audience of listeners and readers numbering in the millions nationally. With its unique programming focus, Salem provides compelling content, fresh commentary and relevant information from some of the most respected figures across the Christian and conservative media landscape. Learn more about Salem Media Group, Inc. at www.salemmedia.com, Facebook and Twitter.
CULVER CITY, Calif., April 24, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Snail, Inc. (Nasdaq: SNAL) (“Snail” or “the Company”), a leading, global independent developer and publisher of interactive digital entertainment, today announced ARK: Survival Ascended (“ASA”), the next-generation remaster of the beloved ARK: Survival Evolved, harnessing the power of Unreal Engine 5 (“UE5”), is expected to release on Xbox Series S/X, PC (Windows/Steam), and PlayStation 5 in August 2023.
ASA is expected to be available as a standalone package on all platforms at $59.99. This comprehensive package will contain the remastered and next-generation optimized content, including The Island, a revamped Survival of the Fittest, and other DLCs and maps (including Scorched Earth, Aberration, Extinction, Genesis Part 1 & Part 2, Fjordur, Ragnarok, The Center, Lost Island, Valguero, and Crystal Isles).
Upon launch, ASA players will gain access to The Island, Survival of the Fittest and Scorched Earth. The other DLCs will be added over time. The game will showcase significant improvements and enhancements and ongoing planned updates with new features, content drops, creatures, items, structures, and DLC. Survival of the Fittest will be integrated into ASA as a new fully-supported game mode, backed by a dedicated development team concentrating on gameplay changes and adjustments. Moreover, a new canonical-story expansion pack for ASA is expected to be available in Q4 2023, introducing four new creatures and more details to be revealed later this year.
Snail is committed to delivering the finest gaming experience and will continue to support the next generation of ARK with continuous updates and enhancements.
Jim Tsai, Chief Executive Officer of Snail, commented, “We are excited to bring ASA to our loyal players and new audiences alike. Leveraging the power of UE5, we aim to elevate the iconic ARK gaming experience to new heights, providing enhanced visuals, gameplay, and features that will engage the community for years to come.”
About Snail, Inc.
Snail is a leading, global independent developer and publisher of interactive digital entertainment for consumers around the world, with a premier portfolio of premium games designed for use on a variety of platforms, including consoles, PCs and mobile devices.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains statements that constitute forward-looking statements. Many of the forward-looking statements contained in this press release can be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “expect,” “should,” “plan,” “intend,” “may,” “predict,” “continue,” “estimate” and “potential,” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions. Forward-looking statements appear in a number of places in this press release and include, but are not limited to, statements regarding Snail’s intent, belief or current expectations. These forward-looking statements include information about possible or assumed future plans and objectives related to the release of ASA, including but not limited to, the timing of the release, the pricing of ASA, the content and features of ASA, the release of the expansion pack for ASA. The statements Snail makes regarding the following matters are forward-looking by their nature: growth prospects and strategies; launching new games and additional functionality to games that are commercially successful; expansion of upcoming games; its ability to develop new video games and enhance existing games; its relationships with third-party platforms such as Xbox Live and Game Pass, PlayStation Network, Steam, Epic Games Store, Google Stadia, the Apple App Store, the Google Play Store and the Amazon Appstore; assumptions underlying any of the foregoing.
Michael Kupinski, Director of Research, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Jacob Mutchler, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the bottom of the report for important disclosures
Overview: Key takeaways from the NAB. Media investors are unpacking the information from the National Association of Broadcaster’s (NAB) convention. While there are promising new technologies that are sure to create shiny new objects to catch investor’s attention, particularly AI, the chatter is about the current advertising environment. Looking for the key takeaways? Sign up here for the virtual conference on April 27th.
Digital Media & Technology:Head fake? Every one of Noble’s Internet and Digital Media Indices not only finished the quarter up, but significantly outperformed the S&P 500. The best performing index was Noble’s Social Media Index, which increased by 70% in the first quarter of 2023, followed by Noble’s Ad Tech Index (+31%), MarTech Index (+30%), and Digital Media Index (+18%).
Television Broadcasting: Weak current revenue trends.While auto advertising appears to be faring better, the weight of the economic challenges appear to be causing further moderation in advertising. Will auto and, potentially Political, carry the second half 2023 revenue performance?
Radio Broadcasting: All out of love.The industry is reeling from a Wall Street research downgrade to an underperform on iHeart Media, which sent all radio stocks tumbling. Some stocks performed better than others. What’s behind the downgrade and which stocks performed better?
Publishing:Advertising takes a hit. After a period of moderating revenue trends, Publishers reported a weakened advertising environment. The downturn was due to Print advertising which took a nose dive. As a result, publishing companies implemented another round of expense cuts to bolster cash flow. There is a bright spot as Digital continues to perform strongly.
Overview
The NAB Show Stopper
Media investors are unpacking all of the information from last week’s National Association of Broadcaster’s (NAB) convention. There is a lot to digest given that there were over 1,400 exhibits, 140 new exhibitors this year. Because of the overwhelming number of exhibitors, many that go to Vegas for this annual convention do not go to the convention floor. It is a shame. There was a lot to see and learn. As Noble’s Media & Entertainment Analyst I walked the convention floor, which covers 4.6 million square feet of exhibit halls and meeting rooms. I stopped by booths and taped presentations to explain the new technologies, the plan for implementation of new services, and the prospect for revenue monetization. One important demonstration focused on the new broadcast standard, ATSC 3.0, the hope for a bright future for the television industry. This new standard should allow the industry to become more contemporary in terms of how its audience consumes video and information. In addition, it offers the ability for the industry to participate in new revenue streams, including Datacasting, which may become bigger than Retransmission revenue in the future.
In addition to touring the floor, I attended NAB panel discussions and hosted meetings with media management teams in a fireside chat format to discuss current business trends, the new technologies (including Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the new broadcast standard). In addition, these C-suite management teams provided their key takeaways from the NAB convention and offered why they participated in the conference this year. These discussions are available to you for free on Channelchek.com on April 27th in a virtual conference. In this upcoming Channelchek Takeaway Series on the NAB Show, I offer my key takeaways, including the current advertising outlook, my take on the monetization of the new technologies and what media investors should do now given the current economic and advertising environment. Your free registration to this informative event is available here.
This report highlights the performance of the media sectors over the past 12 months and past quarter. Overall, media stocks struggled in the past year, but there has been some improved quarterly performance, particularly in Digital Media and Broadcast Television, discussed later. All media stocks are struggling to offset losses over the course of the past year with trailing 12 months stocks down in the range of 5% on the low end to down 68% on the high end. The best performing sector in the past 12 months were Social Media stocks, down 5% versus the general market decline of 9% over the comparable period.
In the first quarter, stock performance was mixed. The best performers in the traditional media sectors were Broadcast Television stocks, up nearly 10% versus the general market which increased 7% in the comparable period. But, the individual TV stock performance reflected a different story, explained later in this report. The worse performer for the quarter were the radio stocks, driven by a Wall Street downgrade of one of the leading radio broadcasters. The Digital Media stocks had another good performance. We believe that stock performance will be a roller coaster for at least another quarter or two as the weight of the Fed rate increases begin to adversely affect the economy.
While National advertising has remained weak, we believe that Local advertising is now beginning to moderate as well. The Local advertising weakness appears to be in the smaller markets as well as the larger markets. This is somewhat different than the most recent economic cycles whereby the smaller markets were somewhat resilient. It seems that the smaller markets are feeling the adverse affects from inflation, rising employment costs and tightening bank credit. In our view, the disappointing advertising outlook likely will cause second quarter revenue estimates to come down, creating a difficult environment for media stocks. As such, we encourage investors to be opportunistic and take an accumulation approach to building positions for the prospective economic and advertising improvement. Our favorites have digital media exposure, given that we expect Digital Advertising (while softening as well) will be more resilient than traditional advertising mediums. Our favorites include Travelzoo (TZOO), Townsquare Media (TSQ), Harte Hanks (HHS), E.W. Scripps (SSP), and Direct Digital (DRCT).
Digital Media
Head fake?
Last quarter we wrote that the S&P 500 increased for the first time since the fourth quarter of 2021 and that we were beginning to see signs of life in Noble’s Internet and Digital Media Indices as well. Those signs of life continued to bear fruit throughout the first quarter, as every one of Noble’s Internet and Digital Media Indices not only finished the quarter up, but significantly outperformed the S&P 500. Figure #1 LTM Digital Media Performance highlights that many of the Digital Media sectors are now approaching year earlier levels given the most recent favorable performance. The best performing index was Noble’s Social Media Index, which increased by 70% in the first quarter of 2023, followed by Noble’s Ad Tech Index (+31%), MarTech Index (+30%), and Digital Media Index (+18%).
Figure #1 LTM Digital Media Performance
Source: Capital IQ
Noble’s Indices are market cap weighted, and we attribute the strength of the Social Media Index to its largest constituent, Meta Platforms (META; a.k.a. Facebook) whose shares increased by 76% in the first quarter. Figure #2 Q1 Digital Media Performancehighlights the first quarter performance for the digital stocks.Meta’s management stirred interest in the shares from its 4Q 2022 earnings call when they spent most of their time talking about “efficiency”, which investors interpreted to mean that Meta was newly focused on profitability. After a relatively disastrous 3Q 2022 earnings call, after which shares fell by 25%, the company demonstrated on its 4Q 2022 earnings call that it clearly had gotten the message: investors were not enamored about the company’s plans in October 2022 to spend billions of dollars to develop its Metaverse initiatives. Rather, on its fourth quarter call, management focused on driving its short form video initiative, Reels (i.e., becoming more TikTok like), reducing its headcount by reducing layers of management, lowering its operating expenses and reducing its capital expenditures. Investors applauded this newfound focus on profitability and shares rebounded from a low of $88.90 per share in early November to $211.94 at the March quarter-end.
The next best performing index was Noble’s Ad Tech Index which increased by 31% during 1Q 2023. Fourteen of the 23 stocks in the index were up in the first quarter. Standouts during the quarter were Integral Ad Science (IAS; +62%) and Perion Networks (PERI; +56%). Integral Ad Science exceeded expectations in its fourth quarter results and guided to better-than-expected results in 1Q 2023. The company continues to expand its product suite, scale its social media offerings (i.e., for TikTok) and is well positioned to continue to benefit from the shift from linear TV to connected TV (CTV). Perion shares continued their winning: Perion was the only ad tech stock whose shares were up in 2022. Perion’s 56% increase in 1Q 2023 reflected beat on both revenues (by 2%) and EBITDA (by 10%) as well as improved guidance for 1Q 2023. Perion’s profitability increased significantly in 2022, with EBITDA nearly doubling (+90%) from 2021 ($70M) to 2022 ($132M).
Noble’s MarTech Index increased by 30% with 14 of the 22 stocks in the index posting increases in 1Q 2023. The best performing stocks were Qualtrics (XM; +70%) Sprinklr (CXM; +59%), Salesforce (CRM; +51%), Hubspot (HUBS; +48%) and Yext (YEXT; +47%). Qualtrics agreed to be acquired for $12.5 billion by Silver Lake and the Canadian Pension Plan Investment Board, which came at a 73% premium to its 30-day volume weighted stock price. Sprinklr beat revenue expectations and significantly beat EBITDA expectations (doubling the Street expectations) and guided to a current year forecast that focuses more on efficiency and profitability.
MarTech stocks have been victims of their own success. Two years ago at this time the sector was trading at 11.3x forward revenue estimates, and a year ago the group was trading at 6.5x forward revenues. Today the group trades at 4x forward revenues and investors appear to be wading back into the sector. Figure #3 Marketing Tech Comparables highlights the compelling stock valuations.One of the laggards in the sector has been Harte Hanks (HHS), which declined 20% in the first quarter. We believe that the shares have not gained traction following the successful rebound toward profitability in 2022. The shares advanced a powerful 136% in 2022 from lows in May to highs achieved in August 2022. Since that time, investors appear to be taking chips off the table. In our view, the HHS shares appear to be oversold. Its business appears to be resilient. Given the recent weakness in the shares, the shares appear to be undervalued and offer a favorable risk reward relationship. As such, the HHS shares are among our favorites in the sector.
Another one of our current favorites is Direct Digital Holdings (DRCT). As Figure #4 Advertising Tech Comparables illustrates, the DRCT shares trade in line with the averages for the group at roughly 5.4 times 2024 adj. EBITDA. Notably, the company recently restated upward its 2022 full year revenue and adj. EBITDA results. Given the favorable operating momentum, we raised our full year 2023 and 2024 revenue and adj. EBITDA estimates, keeping our previous growth estimates. With the higher 2024 adj. EBITDA, we tweaked upward our price target from $5.50 to $6.00. Given a favorable fundamental outlook and compelling stock valuation, we view the shares as among our favorites.
Finally, Noble’s Digital Media Index, while lagging that of its digital peers at an 18% increase, significantly outperformed the S&P 500 (+7%), with a broad based recovery in which 9 of the sector’s 11 stocks increased during 1Q 2023. The best performing stock was Spotify (SPOT; +69%), whose revenues fell short of expectations by less than 1%, significantly beat consensus Street EBITDA expectations by $58M and more importantly pivoted towards demonstrating operating leverage. Spotify, which posted an EBITDA loss of nearly $500 billion in 2022, is expected to generate $650 billion in EBITDA in 2024, according to Street estimates. A deteriorating ad market in 2022 combined with higher interest rates likely prompted the company to shift its priorities to running a profitable company and doing it more quickly and with some urgency. The second best performing stock was Travelzoo (TZOO; +36%), as the company’s 4Q 2022 revenues and EBITDA increased by 31% and 328%, respectively. Notably, Travelzoo’s EBITDA came in 58% higher than Street consensus. The company appears to be benefiting from pent up travel demand for travel and management highlighted the opportunity for margin expansion in the coming quarters. Given the favorable outlook, we raised our price target to $10. Near current levels, the TZOO shares appear to offer above average returns and we reiterate our Outperform rating.
Figure #2 Q1 Digital Media Performance
Source: Capital IQ
Figure #3 Marketing Tech Comparables
Source: Eikon, Company filings & Noble estimates
Figure #4 Advertising Tech Comparables
Source: Eikon, Company filings & Noble estimates
Traditional Media
As Figure #5 LTM Traditional Media Performance illustrates, these stocks have struggled to gain sea legs, trending lower over the course of the past year. All traditional media sectors have underperformed over the past year, with Radio the poorest performing group. As Figure #6 Q1 Traditional Media Performance illustrates, only the TV Broadcast stocks edged out the general market performance in the latest quarter.
Figure #5 LTM Traditional Media Performance
Source: Capital IQ
Figure #6 Q1 Traditional Media Performance
Source: Capital IQ
Television Broadcast
Weak current revenue trends
As illustrated in the previous chart, the TV stocks outperformed the general market in the first quarter. This market cap weighted index masked the performance of many poor performing stocks in the quarter. Sinclair Broadcasting (SBGI; up 10%), Entravision (EVC; up a strong 26%), and Fox (FOX; up 12%) were among the best performing stocks and favorably influenced the TV index in the quarter. But, there were many poor performing stocks including E.W. Scripps (SSP; down 29%), Gray Television (GTN; down 22%) and Tegna (TGNA; down 20%). We believe that there was heightened interest in Entravision given its favorable Q1 results which was fueled by its fast growing Digital business. Figure #7 TV Q4 YoY Revenue Growth illustrates the Entravision’s Q4 revenue performance was among the best in the industry. While Entravision was among the best revenue performers, its margins are below that of its peer group as illustrated in Figure #8 TV Q4 EBITDA Margins. This is due to the accounting treatment of its Digital revenues given that it is an agency business. Given that Digital represents roughly 80% of the company’s total company revenue, we plan to put the EVC shares into the Digital Media sector to more accurately reflect its business. The poorer performing stocks are among the higher debt levered in the industry. As such, we believe the underperformance reflects concern of a slowing economy and investors flight to quality in the sector.
We do not believe that we are out of the woods with the TV stocks and the market is expected to be volatile. The advertising environment appears to be deteriorating given weakening economic conditions. There are bright spots which include some improvement in the Auto category. Dealerships appear to be stepping up advertising given higher inventory levels. In addition, broadcasters appear optimistic about Political advertising, which could begin in the third quarter 2023. There is a planned Republican presidential candidate debate scheduled in August. As such, there is some promise that candidates will advertise in advance of that debate and into the fourth quarter given the early primary season. We do not believe that Political and Auto will be enough to offset the weakness in National and in the weakening Local category. In our view, Q2 and full year 2023 estimates are likely to come down. Furthermore, we believe that broadcasters will be shy about predicting Political advertising even into 2024 given the past disappointments in management forecasts in the last Political cycle.
We encourage investors to take an accumulation approach to the sector. Notably, as Figure #9 TV Comparables highlights, nearly all of the stocks are trading near each other, with the exception of the larger media stocks. In our view, the valuations are near recession type valuations and appear to have limited downside risk. Our current favorite is E.W. Scripps (SSP). While the company is not immune to the current weak advertising environment, we believe that there is a favorable Retransmission revenue opportunity as 75% of its subscribers are due in the next 12 months. In addition, we believe that Retransmission margins will improve. Given the relatively small float for the shares, the SSP shares tend to underperform when the industry is out of favor, but then outperform when the industry is back in favor. In our view, the SSP shares offer a favorable risk/reward relationship and top our favorites in the sector.
Figure #7 TV Q4 YoY Revenue Growth
Source: Eikon & Company filings
Figure #8 TV Q4 EBITDA Margins
Source: Eikon & Company filings
Figure #9 TV Comparables
Source: Noble Estimates & Eikon
Radio Broadcasting
All out of love
The Radio stocks had another tough quarter, down 17% versus a 7% gain for the general market. Notably, there was a wide variance in the individual stock performance, with the largest stocks in the group having the worst performance in the quarter, including Audacy (AUD; down 40%), Cumulus Media (CMLS; down 41%) and iHeart Media (IHRT; down 36%). The first quarter stock performance did not appear to reflect the fourth quarter results. As Figure #10 Radio Industry Q4 YoY Revenue Growth illustrates, revenues were relatively okay, with some exceptions. Some of the larger Radio companies which have a large percentage of National advertising, underperformed relative to the more diversified Radio companies, especially those with a strong Digital segment presence. Figure #11 Radio Industry Q4 YoY EBITDA Margins illustrate that the margins for the industry remain relatively healthy.
The weakness in the Radio stocks was fueled in the quarter from a downgrade to under perform on the shares of iHeart by a Wall Street firm. Many radio stocks were down in sympathy. The analyst attributed the downgrade to the current macro environment and its heavy floating rate debt burden. The company is not expected to generate enough free cash flow to de-lever its balance sheet. We believe the downgrade as well as the excessive debt profile of Audacy, another industry leader which likely will need to restructure, sent all radio stocks tumbling. Some stocks performed better than others. While Cumulus Media’s debt profile is not as levered as iHeart or Audacy, the shares were caught in the net of a weak advertising outlook. Cumulus is among the most sensitive to National advertising, which currently continues to be weak.
Some of our favorite stocks which are diversified and have developing digital businesses performed better. Those stocks included Townsquare Media (TSQ; up 10%), and Salem Media (SALM; up 4%). Notably, while the shares of Beasley Broadcasting (BBGI) were down 10%, the shares performed better than the 17% decline for the industry in the quarter. Importantly, Beasley recently provided favorable updated Q1 guidance for the first quarter. Q1 revenues are expected to increase 1% to 2.5% and EBITDA growth is expected to be in the range of 40% to 50%, significantly better than our estimates. Furthermore, management provided a sanguine outlook for 2023 and 2024. Digital revenue is expected to reach 20% to 30% of total revenue with a goal of reaching 40% in 2024. By comparison, Digital revenue was 17% of total revenue in the fourth quarter 2022. Furthermore, the company is sitting on roughly $35 million in cash. It has opportunistically repurchased $10 million of its bonds at a significant discount. We believe that it is likely to maintain a strong cash position given the economic uncertainty.
We view Townsquare Media (TSQ), Salem Media (SALM) and Beasley Broadcast (BBGI) as among our favorites in the industry given the diverse revenue streams. While these companies are not immune to the economic headwinds, we believe that its Digital businesses should offer some ballast to its more sensitive Radio business. In the case of Salem, 30% of its revenues are relatively stable with block programming. As Figure #12 Broadcast Radio Comparables illustrates, the shares of Townsquare are among the cheapest in the industry, trading below peer group averages. Notably, the company instituted a hefty dividend. As a result, investors get paid while we await a favorable upturn in fundamentals. As such, the shares of TSQ tops our list of favorites.
Figure #10 Radio Industry Q4 YoY Revenue Growth
Source: Eikon & Company filings
Figure #11 Radio Industry Q4 YoY EBITDA Margins
Source: Eikon & Company filings
Figure #12 Broadcast Radio Comparables
Source: Noble estimates & Eikon
Publishing
Advertising takes a hit
After a period of moderating revenue trends, Publishers reported a weakened advertising environment. As illustrated in Figure #13 Publishing Industry YOY Revenue Growth, illustrates that revenue trends deteriorated with Print advertising taking a nose dive. This trend was illustrative in the results from Lee Enterprises, one of our current favorites in the sector. After a fiscal fourth quarter flat revenue performance, the company reported a 8.5% decline in its fiscal first quarter. The Q1 revenue performance reflected an 18.5% decrease in Print advertising, an acceleration in the rate of the 11% decline in the previous quarter.
The surprisingly weak quarter hit the company’s adj. EBITDA margins. Traditionally, Lee maintained some of the best margins in the industry. As Figure #14 Q4 Publishing Industry EBITDA Margins illustrates, the company fell in ranking to among the lowest in the sector. Importantly, in spite of the revenue weakness, the company maintains its previous adj. EBITDA guidance of $94 million to $100 million. To achieve its cash flow target in light of the soft revenue outlook, Lee implemented a round of expense cuts to bolster cash flow. Cost reductions are expected to result in $40 million of savings in FY23, and $60 million in annualized savings going forward. While we are disappointed that the company’s Print business is not moderating as previously expected, the company’s Digital businesses remain favorably robust. In addition, its Digital business is turning toward contributing margins. As such, we remain sanguine about the company’s digital transition.
As Figure #15 Publishing Comparables highlights, there is a wide gap between the valuation of the New York Times (NYT) and the rest of the industry, including Lee. While the highly debt levered shares of Gannett appear cheaper, we believe that Lee has a more favorable debt profile with a fixed 9% annual rate, no fixed principal payments, no performance covenants and a 25 year maturity. With the shares trading at 5.3 times our 2024 adj. EBITDA estimate compared with 15.4 times at the New York Times, we believe that there is limited downside risk in the LEE shares. Furthermore, we believe that the company is well positioned as economic and advertising prospects improve. Given the company’s favorable outlook for its Digital transition, we believe that the shares should close the gap in valuations with the leadership stock in the group. Consequently, the shares of LEE are among our favorite play for an improving economic outlook.
Figure #13 Publishing Industry YoY Revenue Growth
Source: Eikon & Company filings
Figure #14 Q4 Publishing Industry EBITDA Margins
Source: Eikon & Company filings
Figure #15 Publishing Comparables
Source: Noble estimates & Eikon
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Senior Equity Analyst focusing on Basic Materials & Mining. 20 years of experience in equity research. BA in Business Administration from Westminster College. MBA with a Finance concentration from the University of Missouri. MA in International Affairs from Washington University in St. Louis. Named WSJ ‘Best on the Street’ Analyst and Forbes/StarMine’s “Best Brokerage Analyst.” FINRA licenses 7, 24, 63, 87
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Michael Kupinski, Director of Research – Digital, Media & Technology Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Patrick McCann, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
Revenue restatement. Certain invoices were not sent in a timely manner and roughly $1.4 million in revenue was not captured in its preliminary 2022 full year results. As such, full year revenue was $89.4 million rather than $88.0 million, as previously reported, and adj. EBITDA was $10.1 million rather than $8.8 million.
Favorable operating momentum. The restatement positively impacted 2022 results and, importantly, management re-iterated full year 2023 guidance of revenue between $118 million to $122 million.
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*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision.
CULVER CITY, Calif., April 13, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Snail, Inc. (Nasdaq: SNAL) (“Snail” or “the Company”), a leading, global independent developer and publisher of interactive digital entertainment, is pleased to announce that that Noble Capital Markets has initiated company-sponsored equity research coverage on the Company. The full report by Noble Capital Markets Senior Research Analyst Michael Kupinski, as well as news and advanced market data on Snail, Inc. is available on Channelchek.
About Snail, Inc.
Snail is a leading, global independent developer and publisher of interactive digital entertainment for consumers around the world, with a premier portfolio of premium games designed for use on a variety of platforms, including consoles, PCs and mobile devices.
About Noble Capital Markets
Noble Capital Markets, Inc. was incorporated in 1984 as a full-service SEC / FINRA registered broker-dealer, dedicated exclusively to serving underfollowed small / microcap companies through investment banking, wealth management, trading & execution, and equity research activities. Over the past 37 years, Noble has raised billions of dollars for these companies and published more than 45,000 equity research reports. www.noblecapitalmarkets.com email: [email protected]
About Channelchek
Channelchek (.com) is a comprehensive investor-centric portal – featuring more than 6,000 emerging growth companies – that provides advanced market data, independent research, balanced news, video webcasts, exclusive c-suite interviews, and access to virtual road shows. The site is available to the public at every level without cost or obligation. Research on Channelchek is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., an SEC / FINRA registered broker-dealer since 1984. www.channelchek.com email: [email protected]
Engine Gaming and Media, Inc. (NASDAQ:GAME) (TSX-V:GAME) provides premium social sports and esports gaming experiences, as well as unparalleled data analytics, marketing, advertising, and intellectual property to support its owned and operated direct-to-consumer properties, while also providing these services to enable its clients and partners. The company’s subsidiaries include Stream Hatchet, the global leader in gaming video distribution analytics; Sideqik, a social influencer marketing discovery, analytics, and activation platform; WinView Games, a social predictive play-along gaming platform for viewers to play while watching live events; and Frankly Media, a digital publishing platform used to create, distribute and monetize content across all digital channels. Engine Media generates revenue through a combination of direct-to-consumer fees, streaming technology and data SaaS-based offerings, and programmatic advertising. For more information, please visit www.enginegaming.com.
Michael Kupinski, Director of Research – Digital, Media & Technology Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Patrick McCann, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
Business arrangement complete. The company closed the previously announced business arrangement with GameSquare Esports. As part of the deal, GAME shares underwent a 1-4 reverse split and all of GameSquare Esports’ shares (GSQ) were exchanged for Game shares at a 1-for-0.02 ratio. The combined company is known as GameSquare Holdings and trades on the NASDAQ and TSX under “GAME.”
Source of additional funding. Prior to the transaction, the company offered subscription receipts for $1.25 per receipt, which fetched total gross proceeds of $9.6 million. The receipts were consolidated at 1-4 ratio, in line with the reverse stock split and converted to common “GAME” shares. The total shares outstanding post transaction are 12.9 million. We view the receipts as an important aspect of the transaction, as it shores up additional funding.
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*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision.
Snail is a leading, global independent developer and publisher of interactive digital entertainment for consumers around the world, with a premier portfolio of premium games designed for use on a variety of platforms, including consoles, PCs and mobile devices.
Michael Kupinski, Director of Research – Digital, Media & Technology Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Patrick McCann, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
Initiating coverage with an Outperform rating and $9 target. Snail is a game developer and publisher, which boasts a portfolio of games that have demonstrated sustained popularity among gaming enthusiasts. Moreover, the company has a broad range of opportunities to grow revenue through additional games, expansion packs, and alternative ways to use its IP.
Expanding market opportunity. The total global video game market in terms of revenue was $193 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow at 4% CAGR, from 2021-2025. We believe that Snail should grow faster than the industry over the next few years as it launches new products.
Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.
This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).
*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision.
With more than 60 units, RCI Hospitality Holdings, Inc., through its subsidiaries, is the country’s leading company in adult nightclubs and sports bars/restaurants. Clubs in New York City, Chicago, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Miami, Minneapolis, Denver, St. Louis, Charlotte, Pittsburgh, Raleigh, Louisville, and other markets operate under brand names such as Rick’s Cabaret, XTC, Club Onyx, Vivid Cabaret, Jaguars Club, Tootsie’s Cabaret, Scarlett’s Cabaret, Diamond Cabaret, and PT’s Showclub. Sports bars/restaurants operate under the brand name Bombshells Restaurant & Bar.
Joe Gomes, Managing Director – Generalist Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Joshua Zoepfel, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
2Q23 Preliminary Revenues. RCI reported preliminary 2Q23 revenue for the Nightclubs and Bombshells. Total revenues of $70.8 million were up 12.3% year-over-year. Y-o-Y SSS were up 0.2%. Nightclubs revenue of $56.6 million was up 18.6% y-o-y and 3.7% on a SSS basis, while Bombshells revenue of $14.3 million was off 7.1% y-o-y and down 12.1% on a SSS basis. We had estimated full 2Q23 revenue at $71 million.
Organic, Acquisitions Drive Nightclubs. Revenue from clubs owned prior to FY22 increased 2.1% y-o-y. The 11 clubs acquired in October 2021 were up 19.5% y-o-y, a testament to the implementation of the RCI operating playbook. The six clubs acquired since the beginning of FY23 added $1.8 million, while the three remodeled/renamed clubs contributed $1.2 million. RCI continued to see intermittent softness in select blue collar clubs during the quarter, with several clubs also impacted by adverse weather conditions.
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This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).
*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision.
