Release – Gray Amends Merger Agreement With Meredith Corporation


Gray Amends Merger Agreement With Meredith Corporation

 

ATLANTA, June 03, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gray Television, Inc. (“Gray”) (NYSE: GTN) today confirmed that Meredith Corporation (“Meredith”) recently informed Gray that, after announcing the definitive agreement with Gray, it had received an unsolicited proposal to acquire its Local Media Group (“LMG”) division, including all of Meredith’s broadcast television stations, from another party. Gray subsequently offered to amend the parties’ Merger Agreement to increase the total consideration payable by Gray from approximately $14.50 per share in cash, or $2.7 billion in total enterprise value (after the spin off of Meredith’s National Media Group to the current Meredith shareholders), to $16.99 per share in cash, or $2.825 billion in total enterprise value; to increase certain fees due to the other party under certain termination events under the Merger Agreement; and to make certain other revisions. On June 2, 2021, Gray and Meredith entered into an amendment to reflect the revised terms.

Meredith has informed Gray that its Board of Directors unanimously approved the revised Gray proposal, citing superior certainty of value, regulatory considerations, path to close and expected timing.

Gray remains committed to moving forward with its pending acquisition of Meredith’s local television stations. Gray continues to believe that the proposed Gray/Meredith transaction is in the best interests of the shareholders of both Gray and Meredith, as well as the companies’ respective employees, business partners, and local communities.

Meredith’s Board continues to recommend that its shareholders approve the proposed transaction with Gray. In addition, Meredith shareholders with voting control of approximately 87% of the issued and outstanding Class B common stock of Meredith have entered into a voting and support agreement that generally requires that those shareholders vote their shares in favor of the adoption of the Merger Agreement and take certain other actions to support the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement (including voting against any competing proposal) as long as the Merger Agreement has not been terminated.

Gray continues to expect that the Meredith transaction, even as amended, will be significantly accretive to free cash flow per share. To date, Gray has identified an estimated $55 million in synergies annualized for the first full calendar year following the closing. Including these anticipated $55 million of synergies, the revised purchase price for Gray’s acquisition of Meredith represents a multiple of approximately 8.3 times a blended average of the Meredith television stations’ 2019/2020 operating cash flow.

The transaction is subject to approval by Meredith’s shareholders and customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals, including certain consents necessary to effectuate the spin-off of Meredith’s National Media Group immediately prior to the closing of Gray’s acquisition of Meredith. Expected strong free cash flow generation through the closing of all pending transactions and throughout 2021 and 2022 is anticipated to allow Gray to deleverage its capital structure following the closing. Assuming a year-end 2021 closing, Gray anticipates that its total leverage ratio, net of all cash, would approximate 5.4 times on a trailing eight-quarter operating cash flow, including estimated annualized synergies from all announced transactions.

About Gray:

Gray Television is a television broadcast company headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. Gray is the largest owner of top-rated local television stations and digital assets in the United States. Gray currently owns and/or operates television stations and leading digital properties in 94 television markets that collectively reach approximately 24% of U.S. television households. During 2020, Gray’s stations were ranked first in 70 markets, and ranked first and/or second in 86 markets, as calculated by Comscore’s audience measurement service. Gray also owns video program production, marketing, and digital businesses including Raycom Sports, Tupelo Honey, and RTM Studios, the producer of PowerNation programs and content, and it is the majority owner of Swirl Films.

Gray Contacts:  

Website: www.gray.tv

Hilton H. Howell, Jr., Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, 404-266-5512
Jim Ryan, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, 404-504-9828
Kevin P. Latek, Executive Vice President, Chief Legal and Development Officer, 404-504-9828

Forward-Looking Statements:

This press release contains certain forward looking statements that are based largely on Gray’s current expectations and reflect various estimates and assumptions by Gray. These statements are statements other than those of historical fact, and may be identified by words such as “estimates”, “expect,” “anticipate,” “will,” “implied,” “assume” and similar expressions. Forward looking statements are subject to certain risks, trends and uncertainties that could cause actual results and achievements to differ materially from those expressed in such forward looking statements. Such risks, trends and uncertainties, which in some instances are beyond Gray’s control, include Gray’s ability to complete its pending acquisition of Meredith or other pending transactions, on the terms and within the timeframe currently contemplated, any material regulatory or other unexpected requirements in connection therewith, or whether expected synergies can be achieved on a timely basis or at all, the impact of recently completed transactions, estimates of future retransmission revenue, future expenses and other future events. Gray is subject to additional risks and uncertainties described in Gray’s quarterly and annual reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time, including in the “Risk Factors,” and management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations sections contained therein, which reports are made publicly available via its website, www.gray.tv. Any forward-looking statements in this communication should be evaluated in light of these important risk factors. This presentation reflects management’s views as of the date hereof. Except to the extent required by applicable law, Gray undertakes no obligation to update or revise any information contained in this communication beyond the date hereof, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

No Offer or Solicitation

This communication is for informational purposes only and is neither an offer to purchase, nor a solicitation of an offer to sell, any securities or the solicitation of any vote in any jurisdiction pursuant to the proposed transaction or otherwise, nor shall there be any sale, issuance or transfer of securities in any jurisdiction in contravention of applicable law.

Additional Information and Where To Find It

This communication is not a solicitation of a proxy from any shareholder of Meredith. Gray expects Meredith will file relevant materials with the Securities and Exchange Commission in connection with the proposed transactions, including a proxy. INVESTORS OF MEREDITH ARE URGED TO READ THE DEFINITIVE PROXY STATEMENT AND OTHER RELEVANT MATERIALS CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT MEREDITH, GRAY AND THE PROPOSED MERGER. Investors may obtain a free copy of these materials (when they are available) and other documents filed by Meredith with the SEC at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

Participants in the Merger Solicitation

Gray, Meredith and their respective executive officers and directors may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the security holders of Meredith in connection with the proposed merger and related spin-off. Information about Gray’s directors and executive officers is available in its definitive proxy statement, dated March 25, 2021, for its 2021 annual meeting of shareholders. Information about Meredith’s directors and executive officers is available in Meredith’s definitive proxy statement, dated September 25, 2020, for its 2020 annual meeting of shareholders. Other information regarding the participants and description of their direct and indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, will be contained in the proxy statement and Form 10 registration statement regarding the proposed merger and related spin-off that Meredith will file with the SEC when it becomes available.

Gray Announces Quarterly Cash Dividend Of $0.08 Per Share


Gray Announces Quarterly Cash Dividend Of $0.08 Per Share

 

ATLANTA, June 01, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gray Television, Inc. (“Gray”) (NYSE: GTN) announced today that its Board of Directors has authorized a quarterly cash dividend of $0.08 per share of its common stock and Class A common stock. The dividend is payable on June 30, 2021, to shareholders of record at the close of business on June 15, 2021.

About Gray Television

Gray Television is a television broadcast company headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. Gray is the largest owner of top-rated local television stations and digital assets in the United States. Gray currently owns and/or operates television stations and leading digital properties in 94 television markets that collectively reach approximately 24% of U.S. television households. During 2020, Gray’s stations were ranked first in 70 markets and ranked first and/or second in 86 markets, as calculated by Comscore’s audience measurement service. Gray also owns video program production, marketing, and digital businesses including Raycom Sports, Tupelo Honey, and RTM Studios, the producer of PowerNation programs and content, and it is the majority owner of Swirl Films.

Gray Contacts:

www.gray.tv
Jim Ryan, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, 404-504-9828
Kevin P. Latek, Executive Vice President, Chief Legal and Development Officer, 404-266-8333

Source: Gray Television

Release – Gray Announces Quarterly Cash Dividend Of 0.08 Per Share


Gray Announces Quarterly Cash Dividend Of $0.08 Per Share

 

ATLANTA, June 01, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gray Television, Inc. (“Gray”) (NYSE: GTN) announced today that its Board of Directors has authorized a quarterly cash dividend of $0.08 per share of its common stock and Class A common stock. The dividend is payable on June 30, 2021, to shareholders of record at the close of business on June 15, 2021.

About Gray Television

Gray Television is a television broadcast company headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. Gray is the largest owner of top-rated local television stations and digital assets in the United States. Gray currently owns and/or operates television stations and leading digital properties in 94 television markets that collectively reach approximately 24% of U.S. television households. During 2020, Gray’s stations were ranked first in 70 markets and ranked first and/or second in 86 markets, as calculated by Comscore’s audience measurement service. Gray also owns video program production, marketing, and digital businesses including Raycom Sports, Tupelo Honey, and RTM Studios, the producer of PowerNation programs and content, and it is the majority owner of Swirl Films.

Gray Contacts:

www.gray.tv
Jim Ryan, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, 404-504-9828
Kevin P. Latek, Executive Vice President, Chief Legal and Development Officer, 404-266-8333

Source: Gray Television

Harte-Hanks Inc. (HRTH) – A Good Start To A Promising Year

Monday, May 17, 2021

Harte-Hanks Inc. (HRTH)
A Good Start To A Promising Year

Harte-Hanks is a marketing services company that provides multichannel marketing solutions as well as consulting, data analytics, and strategic assessment. The company’s offerings focus on business-to-business, retail, finance, and automotive segments through digital, social, mobile, and print media offerings. Harte-Hanks strives to develop better customer relationships through its marketing and analytical services for clients. The majority of its revenue is derived from its marketing services in the retail, technology, and consumer brand segments.

Michael Kupinski, Director of Research, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.

    Overachieves Q1 expectations. Total company revenues increased 8% to 43.75 million, 6.5% above our $41.10 million estimate. The revenue growth was the first time since 2014! The company’s Customer Care segment accounted for the largest upside variance (+10.4%), but each segment was better than our estimate. Adjusted EBITDA was significantly better than expected, $2.23 million versus our $600,000 estimate.

    Draws a line in the sand.  Management indicated that it believes that the base revenues for the company is $40 million per quarter. The favorable revenue outlook reflects continued strength in its Customer Care business into the second quarter and improving revenue trends in its Marketing and Fulfillment & Logistics Services segments. We are raising our full year 2021 revenue estimate from $166.4 …



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. 

Release – Entravision Communications Corporation Earns Great Place to Work Certification


Entravision Communications Corporation Earns Great Place to Work Certification

SANTA MONICA, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Entravision Communications Corporation (NYSE: EVC), a leading global media and marketing technology company, is proud to announce that the Company has been Certified™ by Great Place to Work® for the second time. This prestigious award is based entirely on the feedback of current employees. Approximately 80% of Entravision employees actively identified the Company as a ‘great place to work,’ which is 19 percentage points higher than that of the average U.S. company.

“We are thrilled to become Great Place to Work-Certified for the second time,” said Entravision’s Executive Vice President of Global Human Resources and Risk Management, Alexander LaBrie. “Ensuring a top-notch employee experience is an everyday priority at Entravision. We owe our success to our entire team of employees who continued to show their incredible dedication to Entravision and our customers even during one of the most difficult years in economic history. We celebrate and thank each and every one of our employees for all they do for our company, which has enabled Entravision to earn such an incredible recognition not once, but twice.”

“Receiving a Great Place to Work Certification is not something that comes easily. Rather, it takes ongoing dedication by a company to their overall employee experience from the initial hiring to ongoing workplace development,” said Vice President of Global Recognition at Great Place to Work, Sarah Lewis Kulin. “It’s the only official recognition determined by employees’ real-time reports of their company’s culture. Earning this designation means that Entravision’s employees truly believe that their company is one of the best to work for in the country.”

For nearly three decades, Great Place to Work® has been the global authority on workplace culture, employee experience, and leadership behaviors. Companies who receive this prominent certification have proven to deliver market-leading revenue, employee retention and increased innovation to their industries, while job seekers of such companies are 4.5 times more likely to find a great boss. Additionally, employees at Certified™ workplaces are 93% more likely to look forward to coming to work on a daily basis and are twice as likely to be paid fairly, earning a just share of their company’s profits with strong opportunities for continued promotion.

Entravision Communications Corporation last earned the Great Place to Work Certification™ in 2017.

About Entravision Communications Corporation

Entravision is a diversified global media, marketing and technology company serving clients throughout the United States and in more than 20 countries across Latin America, Europe, and Asia. Entravision has 54 television stations and is the largest affiliate group of the Univision and UniMás television networks, and 48 Spanish-language radio stations that feature nationally recognized, award-winning talent. Our dynamic digital portfolio includes Entravision Digital, which serves SMBs in high-density U.S. Latino markets and provides cutting-edge mobile programmatic solutions and demand-side platforms that allow advertisers to execute performance campaigns using machine-learned bidding algorithms, along with Cisneros Interactive, a leader in digital advertising solutions in the Latin American and U.S. Hispanic markets representing major technology platforms. Shares of Entravision Class A Common Stock trade on The New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol: EVC. Learn more about all of our media, marketing and technology offerings at entravision.com or connect with us on LinkedIn and Facebook.

About Great Place to Work Certification™

Great Place to Work® Certification™ is the most definitive “employer-of-choice” recognition that companies aspire to achieve. It is the only recognition based entirely on what employees report about their workplace experience – specifically, how consistently they experience a high-trust workplace. Great Place to Work Certification is recognized worldwide by employees and employers alike and is the global benchmark for identifying and recognizing outstanding employee experience. Every year, more than 10,000 companies across 60 countries apply to get Great Place to Work-Certified.

About Great Place to Work®

Great Place to Work® is the global authority on workplace culture. Since 1992, they have surveyed more than 100 million employees worldwide and used those deep insights to define what makes a great workplace: trust. Their employee survey platform empowers leaders with the feedback, real-time reporting and insights they need to make data-driven people decisions. Everything they do is driven by the mission to build a better world by helping every organization become a great place to work For All™. Learn more at greatplacetowork.com and on LinkedInTwitterFacebook and Instagram.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements, which are included in accordance with the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, may involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Company’s actual results and performance in future periods to be materially different from any future results or performance suggested by the forward-looking statements in this press release. Although the Company believes the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable assumptions, it can give no assurance that actual results will not differ materially from these expectations, and the Company disclaims any duty to update any forward-looking statements made by the Company. From time to time, these risks, uncertainties and other factors are discussed in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

View source version on businesswire.comhttps://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210513005266/en/

Christopher T. Young
Chief Financial Officer
Entravision Communications Corporation
310-447-3870

Kimberly Esterkin
ADDO Investor Relations
310-829-5400

[email protected]

Source: Entravision Communications Corporation

Townsquare Media Inc (TSQ) – Strong Recovery With 2019 In Focus

Tuesday, May 11, 2021

Townsquare Media Inc (TSQ)
Leaning In With A Digital First Strategy

Townsquare Media Inc is an entertainment and media company offering digital marketing solutions in the United States and Canada. It owns and operates radio stations, social media properties focusing the small and mid-cap companies. Services offered to the clients include live events, local advertising, digital advertising, e-commerce offerings, few others. The segments through which the company operates its businesses are classified into Local marketing solutions and Entertainment segments. Revenues are generated from commercials through broadcasts and sale of internet based advertisements.

Michael Kupinski, Director of Research, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.

    Q1 results appear in line. Q1 revenues were $88.7 million versus our $87.5 million estimate. Cash flow, as measured by adjusted EBITDA, was $20.1 million versus our $18.4 million estimate, enhanced by lower-than-expected corporate expenses and better gross profit margins.

    Q2 guidance well above expectations.  Q2 revenues are expected to be between $101 million and $104 million, for growth between 36% to 40% on a year-over-year basis. Importantly, Q2 revenue guidance is a modest 4% to 7% decline compared to the second quarter 2019. We have adjusted upward our Q2 revenue estimate from $83.5 million to $102.5 million and our adjusted EBITDA estimate from $10.0 million to…



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. 

E.W. Scripps Company (SSP) – Stepping Up To The OTT Plate

Monday, May 10, 2021

E.W. Scripps Company (SSP)
Stepping Up To The OTT Plate

The E.W. Scripps Co. (www.scripps.com) serves audiences and businesses through a growing portfolio of television, print and digital media brands. After approval of its acquisition of two Granite Broadcasting stations later this year, Scripps will own 21 local television stations as well as daily newspapers in 13 markets across the United States. It also runs an expanding collection of local and national digital journalism and information businesses including digital video news service Newsy. Scripps also produces television programming, runs an award-winning investigative reporting newsroom in Washington, D.C., and serves as the longtime steward of one of the nation’s largest, most successful and longest-running educational programs, Scripps National Spelling Bee. Founded in 1879, Scripps is focused on the stories of tomorrow.

Michael Kupinski, Director of Research, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.

    Q1 results exceed expectations. Total company revenues of $540.9 million exceeded our estimate of $526.3 million by 2.8%, with core advertising the largest upside variance to our estimates. Q1 Adjusted EBITDA far exceeded our estimates, $140.8 million versus our estimate of $107.4 million, as the company benefited from cost synergies from its January purchase of Ion Media.

    Company provides guidance.  Given the improved revenue visibility, management reinstated providing guidance for the upcoming quarter and provided more color full year free cash flow generation. The guidance was above our Q2 expectations …



This 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. 

Salem Media Group (SALM) – Announces First Quarter 2021 Total Revenue of $59.4 Million


Salem Media Group, Inc. Announces First Quarter 2021 Total Revenue of $59.4 Million

 

IRVING, Texas–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Salem Media Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: SALM) released its results for the three months ended March 31, 2021.

First Quarter 2021 Results

For the quarter ended March 31, 2021 compared to the quarter ended March 31, 2020: 

Consolidated

  • Total revenue increased 1.9% to $59.4 million from $58.3 million;
  • Total operating expenses decreased 27.9% to $55.0 million from $76.3 million;
  • Operating expenses, excluding gains or losses on the disposition of assets, stock-based compensation expense, changes in the estimated fair value of contingent earn-out consideration, impairments, depreciation expense and amortization expense (1) decreased 6.2% to $51.4 million from $54.8 million;
  • Operating income was $4.4 million compared to an operating loss of $18.0 million;
  • Net income was $0.3 million, or $0.01 net income per diluted share compared to a net loss of $55.2 million, or $2.07 net loss per share;
  • EBITDA (1) was $7.5 million compared to a loss of $14.3 million;
  • Adjusted EBITDA (1) increased 131.1% to $7.9 million from $3.4 million; and
  • Net cash used by operating activities increased 18.9% to $9.2 million from $7.7 million.

Broadcast

  • Net broadcast revenue decreased 2.5% to $44.0 million from $45.2 million;
  • Station Operating Income (“SOI”) (1) increased 36.3% to $10.7 million from $7.9 million;
  • Same Station (1) net broadcast revenue decreased 1.9% to $43.9 million from $44.8 million; and
  • Same Station SOI (1) increased 32.1% to $10.9 million from $8.2 million.

Digital Media

  • Digital media revenue increased 5.7% to $9.6 million from $9.1 million; and
  • Digital Media Operating Income (1) increased 21.6% to $0.9 million from $0.8 million.

Publishing

  • Publishing revenue increased 43.4% to $5.7 million from $4.0 million; and
  • Publishing Operating Income (1) was $0.5 million compared to a loss of $1.1 million.

Included in the results for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 are:

  • A $0.3 million ($0.2 million, net of tax, or $0.01 per share) net loss on the disposition of assets relates to the additional loss recorded at closing on the sale of radio station WKAT-AM and FM translator in Miami, Florida; and
  • A $0.1 million non-cash compensation charge ($0.1 million, net of tax) related to the expensing of stock options.

Included in the results for the quarter ended March 31, 2020 are:

  • A $17.3 million impairment charge ($12.8 million, net of tax, or $0.48 per share), of which $0.3 million related to impairment of mastheads, and the remainder to broadcast licenses due to the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic;
  • A $0.3 million impairment charge ($0.2 million, net of tax, or $0.01 per share) related to the company’s goodwill.; and
  • A $0.1 million non-cash compensation charge ($0.1 million, net of tax) related to the expensing of stock options.

Per share numbers are calculated based on 27,138,773 diluted weighted average shares for the quarter ended March 31, 2021, and 26,683,363 diluted weighted average shares for the quarter ended March 31, 2020.

Balance Sheet

As of March 31, 2021, the company had $216.3 million outstanding on the 6.75% senior secured notes due 2024 (the “Notes”) and no balance outstanding on the Asset Based Revolving Credit Facility (“ABL Facility”). The company received $11.2 million in aggregate principal amount of Paycheck Protection Plan (“PPP”) loans through the Small Business Administration that were available to our radio stations and networks under the Consolidated Appropriations Act.

Shelf Registration Statement and At-the-Market Facility

In April 2021, the company filed a prospectus supplement to our shelf registration statement on Form S-3 with the SEC covering the offering, issuance and sale of up to $15.0 million of the Company’s Class A Common Stock pursuant to an at-the-market facility, with B. Riley Securities, Inc. acting as sales agent.

Acquisitions and Divestitures

The following transactions were completed since January 1, 2021:

  • On April 28, 2021, the company closed on the acquisition of the Centerline New Media domain and digital assets for $1.3 million of cash. The digital content library will be operated within Salem Web Network’s church products division.
  • On March 18, 2021, the company sold radio station WKAT-AM and an FM translator in Miami, Florida for $3.5 million in cash. The company collected $3.2 million in cash upon closing and entered a promissory note for $0.3 million in cash due one year from the closing date.
  • On March 8, 2021, the company acquired the Triple Threat Trader newsletter. The company paid no cash at the time of closing and assumed deferred subscription liabilities of $0.1 million. As part of the purchase agreement, the company may pay up to an additional $11,000 in contingent earn-out consideration over the next two years based on the achievement of certain revenue benchmarks.

Pending transactions:

  • On April 20, 2021, the company entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement (“APA”) to sell Singing News Magazine and Singing News Radio (formerly Solid Gospel Network) for $0.1 million in cash. The buyer will assume the deferred subscription liability of $0.4 million. The sale is expected to close in the second quarter of 2021.
  • On April 10, 2021, the company entered into an agreement to sell approximately 34 acres of land in Lewisville, Texas, currently being used as the transmitter site for Company owned radio station KSKY-AM, for $12.1 million in cash. The company will retain enough of the property in the southwest corner of the site to operate the station. Following a due diligence period and satisfaction of several contingencies, the company expects to close on this transaction in the third quarter of 2021.
  • On February 4, 2021, the company entered into an APA to acquire KDIA-AM and KDYA-AM in San Francisco, California for $0.6 million in cash. The company paid $0.1 million in cash to an escrow account with $0.5 million of cash due upon closing. The purchase is subject to the approval of the FCC and is expected to close in the first half of 2021.
  • On February 5, 2020, the company entered into an APA with Word Broadcasting to sell radio stations WFIA-AM, WFIA-FM and WGTK-AM in Louisville, Kentucky for $4.0 million with a $250,000 credit applied to the sale price if closing occurs before March 31, 2020. Additionally, Word Broadcasting would receive a credit toward the purchase price of a sum equal to the monthly fees paid under the TBA that began in January 2017 for months 4-29 of the TBA and a sum equal to $2,000 per month for each monthly fee payment for months 30 and thereafter of the TBA; and a credit of the $450,000 option payment. The company estimated the loss on sale to be approximately $0.5 million net of tax if the sale closed by March 31, 2020 and $0.3 million net of tax if the sale closes later. Due to changes in debt markets, the transaction was not funded and it is uncertain when or if the transaction will close.

Conference Call Information

Salem will host a teleconference to discuss its results on May 6, 2021 at 4:00 p.m. Central Time. To access the teleconference, please dial (877) 524-8416, and then ask to be joined into the Salem Media Group First Quarter 2021 call or listen via the investor relations portion of the company’s website, located at investor.salemmedia.com. A replay of the teleconference will be available through May 20, 2021 and can be heard by dialing (877) 660-6853, passcode 13717857 or on the investor relations portion of the company’s website, located at investor.salemmedia.com.

Follow us on Twitter @SalemMediaGrp.

Second Quarter 2021 Outlook

For the second quarter of 2021, the company is projecting total revenue to increase between 13% and 15% from second quarter 2020 total revenue of $52.9 million. The company is also projecting operating expenses before gains or losses on the sale or disposal of assets, stock-based compensation expense, changes in the estimated fair value of contingent earn-out consideration, impairments, depreciation expense and amortization expense to increase between 6% and 9% compared to the second quarter of 2020 non-GAAP operating expenses of $50.1 million.

A reconciliation of non-GAAP operating expenses, excluding gains or losses on the disposition of assets, stock-based compensation expense, changes in the estimated fair value of contingent earn-out consideration, impairments, depreciation expense and amortization expense to the most directly comparable GAAP measure is not available without unreasonable efforts on a forward-looking basis due to the potential high variability, complexity and low visibility with respect to the charges excluded from this non-GAAP financial measure, in particular, the change in the estimated fair value of earn-out consideration, impairments and gains or losses from the disposition of fixed assets. The company expects the variability of the above charges may have a significant, and potentially unpredictable, impact on its future GAAP financial results.

About Salem Media Group, Inc.

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 (@SalemMediaGrp).

Forward-Looking Statements

Statements used in this press release that relate to future plans, events, financial results, prospects or performance are forward-looking statements as defined under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results may differ materially from those anticipated as a result of certain risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to the ability of Salem to close and integrate announced transactions, market acceptance of Salem’s radio station formats, competition from new technologies, adverse economic conditions, and other risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in Salem’s reports on Forms 10-K, 10-Q, 8-K and other filings filed with or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. Salem undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect new information, changed circumstances or unanticipated events.

(1) Regulation G

Management uses certain non-GAAP financial measures defined below in communications with investors, analysts, rating agencies, banks and others to assist such parties in understanding the impact of various items on its financial statements. The company uses these non-GAAP financial measures to evaluate financial results, develop budgets, manage expenditures and as a measure of performance under compensation programs.

The company’s presentation of these non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered as a substitute for or superior to the most directly comparable financial measures as reported in accordance with GAAP.

Regulation G defines and prescribes the conditions under which certain non-GAAP financial information may be presented in this earnings release. The company closely monitors EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Station Operating Income (“SOI”), Same Station net broadcast revenue, Same Station broadcast operating expenses, Same Station Operating Income, Digital Media Operating Income, Publishing Operating Income (Loss), and operating expenses excluding gains or losses on the disposition of assets, stock-based compensation, changes in the estimated fair value of contingent earn-out consideration, impairments, depreciation and amortization, all of which are non-GAAP financial measures. The company believes that these non-GAAP financial measures provide useful information about its core operating results, and thus, are appropriate to enhance the overall understanding of its financial performance. These non-GAAP financial measures are intended to provide management and investors a more complete understanding of its underlying operational results, trends and performance.

The company defines Station Operating Income (“SOI”) as net broadcast revenue minus broadcast operating expenses. The company defines Digital Media Operating Income as net Digital Media Revenue minus Digital Media Operating Expenses. The company defines Publishing Operating Income (Loss) as net Publishing Revenue minus Publishing Operating Expenses. The company defines EBITDA as net income before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization. The company defines Adjusted EBITDA as EBITDA before gains or losses on the disposition of assets, before changes in the estimated fair value of contingent earn-out consideration, before impairments, before net miscellaneous income and expenses, before gain on bargain purchase, before (gain) loss on early retirement of long-term debt and before non-cash compensation expense. SOI, Digital Media Operating Income, Publishing Operating Income (Loss), EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are commonly used by the broadcast and media industry as important measures of performance and are used by investors and analysts who report on the industry to provide meaningful comparisons between broadcasters. SOI, Digital Media Operating Income, Publishing Operating Income (Loss), EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are not measures of liquidity or of performance in accordance with GAAP and should be viewed as a supplement to and not a substitute for or superior to its results of operations and financial condition presented in accordance with GAAP. The company’s definitions of SOI, Digital Media Operating Income, Publishing Operating Income (Loss), EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are not necessarily comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies.

The company defines Adjusted Free Cash Flow as Adjusted EBITDA less cash paid for capital expenditures, less cash paid for income taxes, and less cash paid for interest. The company considers Adjusted Free Cash Flow to be a liquidity measure that provides useful information to management and investors about the amount of cash generated by its operations after cash paid for capital expenditures, cash paid for income taxes and cash paid for interest. A limitation of Adjusted Free Cash Flow as a measure of liquidity is that it does not represent the total increase or decrease in its cash balance for the period. The company uses Adjusted Free Cash Flow, a non-GAAP liquidity measure, both in presenting its results to stockholders and the investment community, and in its internal evaluation and management of the business. The company’s presentation of Adjusted Free Cash Flow is not intended to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the financial information prepared and presented in accordance with GAAP. The company’s definition of Adjusted Free Cash Flow is not necessarily comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies.

The company defines Same Station net broadcast revenue as broadcast revenue from its radio stations and networks that the company owns or operates in the same format on the first and last day of each quarter, as well as the corresponding quarter of the prior year. The company defines Same Station broadcast operating expenses as broadcast operating expenses from its radio stations and networks that the company owns or operates in the same format on the first and last day of each quarter, as well as the corresponding quarter of the prior year. The company defines Same Station SOI as Same Station net broadcast revenue less Same Station broadcast operating expenses. Same Station operating results include those stations that the company owns or operates in the same format on the first and last day of each quarter, as well as the corresponding quarter of the prior year. Same Station operating results for a full calendar year are calculated as the sum of the Same Station-results for each of the four quarters of that year. The company uses Same Station operating results, a non-GAAP financial measure, both in presenting its results to stockholders and the investment community, and in its internal evaluations and management of the business. The company believes that Same Station operating results provide a meaningful comparison of period over period performance of its core broadcast operations as this measure excludes the impact of new stations, the impact of stations the company no longer owns or operates, and the impact of stations operating under a new programming format. The company’s presentation of Same Station operating results are not intended to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the financial information prepared and presented in accordance with GAAP. The company’s definition of Same Station operating results is not necessarily comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies.

For all non-GAAP financial measures, investors should consider the limitations associated with these metrics, including the potential lack of comparability of these measures from one company to another.

The Supplemental Information tables that follow the condensed consolidated financial statements provide reconciliations of the non-GAAP financial measures that the company uses in this earnings release to the most directly comparable measures calculated in accordance with GAAP. The company uses non-GAAP financial measures to evaluate financial performance, develop budgets, manage expenditures, and determine employee compensation. The company’s presentation of this additional information is not to be considered as a substitute for or superior to the directly comparable measures as reported in accordance with GAAP.

Salem Media Group, Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations

(in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

 

2020

 

 

2021

 

 

 

 

(Unaudited)

Net broadcast revenue

 

$

45,180

 

 

$

44,048

 

Net digital media revenue

 

 

9,104

 

 

 

9,619

 

Net publishing revenue

 

 

3,966

 

 

 

5,686

 

Total revenue

 

 

58,250

 

 

 

59,353

 

Operating expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Broadcast operating expenses

 

 

37,327

 

 

 

33,343

 

 

Digital media operating expenses

 

 

8,326

 

 

 

8,673

 

 

Publishing operating expenses

 

 

5,062

 

 

 

5,205

 

 

Unallocated corporate expenses

 

 

4,210

 

 

 

4,288

 

 

Change in the estimated fair value of contingent earn-out consideration

 

 

(5

)

 

 

 

 

Impairment of indefinite-lived long-term assets other than goodwill

 

 

17,254

 

 

 

 

 

Impairment of goodwill

 

 

307

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

 

3,700

 

 

 

3,170

 

 

Net (gain) loss on the disposition of assets

 

 

79

 

 

 

318

 

Total operating expenses

 

 

76,260

 

 

 

54,997

 

Operating income (loss)

 

 

(18,010

)

 

 

4,356

 

Other income (expense):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest income

 

 

 

 

 

1

 

 

Interest expense

 

 

(4,032

)

 

 

(3,926

)

 

Gain on early retirement of long-term debt

 

 

49

 

 

 

 

 

Net miscellaneous income and (expenses)

 

 

(52

)

 

 

22

 

Net income (loss) before income taxes

 

 

(22,045

)

 

 

453

 

Provision for income taxes

 

 

33,159

 

 

 

130

 

Net income (loss)

 

$

(55,204

)

 

$

323

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic earnings (loss) per share Class A and Class B common stock

 

$

(2.07

)

 

$

0.01

 

Diluted earnings (loss) per share Class A and Class B common stock

 

$

(2.07

)

 

$

0.01

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic weighted average Class A and Class B common stock shares outstanding

 

 

26,683,363

 

 

 

26,736,639

 

Diluted weighted average Class A and Class B common stock shares outstanding

 

 

26,683,363

 

 

 

27,138,773

 

Salem Media Group, Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2020

 

 

March 31, 2021

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Unaudited)

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash

 

$

6,325

 

$

23,394

 

Trade accounts receivable, net

 

 

24,469

 

 

22,974

 

Other current assets

 

 

15,002

 

 

11,739

 

Property and equipment, net

 

 

79,122

 

 

78,598

 

Operating and financing lease right-of-use assets

 

 

48,355

 

 

46,646

 

Intangible assets, net

 

 

347,547

 

 

347,093

 

Deferred financing costs

 

 

213

 

 

187

 

Other assets

 

 

3,538

 

 

3,323

 

Total assets

 

$

524,571

 

$

533,954

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities

 

$

50,860

 

$

49,280

 

Long-term debt

 

 

213,764

 

 

225,143

 

Operating and financing lease liabilities, less current portion

 

 

47,847

 

 

46,152

 

Deferred income taxes

 

 

68,883

 

 

69,071

 

Other liabilities

 

 

7,938

 

 

8,236

 

Stockholders’ Equity

 

 

135,279

 

 

136,072

 

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

 

$

524,571

 

$

533,954

 

SALEM MEDIA GROUP, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

Class A

 

Class B

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common Stock

 

Common Stock

 

Additional

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Paid-In

 

Accumulated

 

Treasury

 

 

 

Shares

 

Amount

 

Shares

 

Amount

 

Capital

 

Earnings (Deficit)

 

Stock

 

Total

Stockholders’ equity, December 31, 2019

 

23,447,317

 

$

227

 

 

5,553,696

 

$

56

 

$

246,680

 

$

(23,294

)

 

$

(34,006

)

 

$

189,663

 

Stock-based compensation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

103

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

103

 

Cash distributions

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(667

)

 

 

 

 

 

(667

)

Net loss

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(55,204

)

 

 

 

 

 

(55,204

)

Stockholders’ equity, March 31, 2020

 

23,447,317

 

$

227

 

 

5,553,696

 

$

56

 

$

246,783

 

$

(79,165

)

 

$

(34,006

)

 

$

133,895

 

Distributions per share

$

0.025

 

 

 

$

0.025

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Class A

 

Class B

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common Stock

 

Common Stock

 

Additional

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Paid-In

 

Accumulated

 

Treasury

 

 

 

Shares

 

Amount

 

Shares

 

Amount

 

Capital

 

Earnings (Deficit)

 

Stock

 

Total

Stockholders’ equity, December 31, 2020

 

23,447,317

 

$

227

 

 

5,553,696

 

$

56

 

$

247,025

 

$

(78,023

)

 

$

(34,006

)

 

$

135,279

 

Stock-based compensation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

78

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

78

 

Options exercised

 

185,782

 

 

2

 

 

 

 

 

 

390

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

392

 

Net income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

323

 

 

 

 

 

 

323

 

Stockholders’ equity,

March 31, 2021

 

23,633,099

 

$

229

 

 

5,553,696

 

$

56

 

$

247,493

 

$

(77,700

)

 

$

(34,006

)

 

$

136,072

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SALEM MEDIA GROUP, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Dollars in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

Three Months Ended
March 31,

 

2020

 

 

2021

 

OPERATING ACTIVITIES

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

$

(55,204

)

 

$

323

 

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Non-cash stock-based compensation

 

103

 

 

 

78

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

3,700

 

 

 

3,170

 

Amortization of deferred financing costs

 

227

 

 

 

213

 

Non-cash lease expense

 

2,252

 

 

 

2,161

 

Provision for bad debts

 

1,900

 

 

 

(295

)

Deferred income taxes

 

33,084

 

 

 

188

 

Change in the estimated fair value of contingent earn-out consideration

 

(5

)

 

 

 

Impairment of indefinite-lived long-term assets other than goodwill

 

17,254

 

 

 

 

Impairment of goodwill

 

307

 

 

 

 

Gain on early retirement of long-term debt

 

(49

)

 

 

 

Net (gain) loss on the disposition of assets

 

79

 

 

 

318

 

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts receivable and unbilled revenue

 

2,419

 

 

 

2,549

 

Inventories

 

70

 

 

 

(93

)

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

 

(587

)

 

 

(750

)

Accounts payable and accrued expenses

 

4,478

 

 

 

2,490

 

Operating lease liabilities

 

(2,407

)

 

 

(2,497

)

Contract liabilities

 

133

 

 

 

1,122

 

Deferred rent income

 

(84

)

 

 

170

 

Other liabilities

 

6

 

 

 

29

 

Income taxes payable

 

57

 

 

 

21

 

Net cash provided by operating activities

 

7,733

 

 

 

9,197

 

INVESTING ACTIVITIES

 

 

 

 

 

Cash paid for capital expenditures net of tenant improvement allowances

 

(1,587

)

 

 

(1,859

)

Capital expenditures reimbursable under tenant improvement allowances and trade agreements

 

(84

)

 

 

 

Deposit on broadcast assets and radio station acquisitions

 

 

 

 

(100

)

Proceeds from sale of assets

 

2

 

 

 

3,501

 

Other

 

(428

)

 

 

(238

)

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities

 

(2,097

)

 

 

1,304

 

FINANCING ACTIVITIES

 

 

 

 

 

Payments to repurchase 6.75% Senior Secured Notes

 

(3,392

)

 

 

 

Proceeds from borrowings under ABL Facility

 

33,319

 

 

 

16

 

Payments on ABL Facility

 

(31,745

)

 

 

(5,016

)

Proceeds from borrowings under PPP Loans

 

 

 

 

11,195

 

Payments of debt issuance costs

 

(1

)

 

 

(3

)

Proceeds from the exercise of stock options

 

 

 

 

392

 

Payments on financing lease liabilities

 

(18

)

 

 

(16

)

Payment of cash distribution on common stock

 

(667

)

 

 

 

Book overdraft

 

(1,885

)

 

 

 

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

 

(4,389

)

 

 

6,568

 

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

 

1,247

 

 

 

17,069

 

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

 

6

 

 

 

6,325

 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

$

1,253

 

 

$

23,394

 

Salem Media Group, Inc.

Supplemental Information

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

 

2020

 

2021

 

 

 

(Unaudited)

 

Reconciliation of Total Operating Expenses to Operating Expenses excluding Gains or Losses on the disposition of assets, Stock-based Compensation Expense, Changes in the Estimated Fair Value of Contingent Earn-out Consideration, Impairments and Depreciation and Amortization Expense (Recurring Operating Expenses)

 

Operating Expenses

 

$

76,260

 

$

54,997

 

Less depreciation and amortization expense

 

 

(3,700)

 

 

(3,170)

 

Less change in estimated fair value of contingent earn-out

consideration

 

 

5

 

 

 

Less impairment of indefinite-lived long-term assets other

than goodwill

 

 

(17,254)

 

 

 

Less impairment of goodwill

 

 

(307)

 

 

 

Less net (gain) loss on the disposition of assets

 

 

(79)

 

 

(318)

 

Less stock-based compensation expense

 

 

(103)

 

 

(78)

 

Total Recurring Operating Expenses

 

$

54,822

 

$

51,431

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reconciliation of Net Broadcast Revenue to Same Station Net Broadcast Revenue

 

Net broadcast revenue

 

$

45,180

 

$

44,048

 

Net broadcast revenue – acquisitions

 

 

 

 

 

Net broadcast revenue – dispositions

 

 

(223)

 

 

4

 

Net broadcast revenue – format change

 

 

(176)

 

 

(140)

 

Same Station net broadcast revenue

 

$

44,781

 

$

43,912

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Broadcast operating expenses

 

$

37,327

 

$

33,343

 

Broadcast operating expenses – acquisitions

 

 

 

 

 

Broadcast operating expenses – dispositions

 

 

(502)

 

 

(106)

 

Broadcast operating expenses – format change

 

 

(260)

 

 

(178)

 

Same Station broadcast operating expenses

 

$

36,565

 

$

33,059

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reconciliation of SOI to Same Station SOI

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Station Operating Income

 

$

7,853

 

$

10,705

 

Station operating loss – acquisitions

 

 

 

 

 

Station operating loss – dispositions

 

 

279

 

 

110

 

Station operating loss – format change

 

 

84

 

 

38

 

Same Station – Station Operating Income

 

$

8,216

 

$

10,853

 

Salem Media Group, Inc.

Supplemental Information

(in thousands)

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

 

2020

 

2021

 

 

 

(Unaudited)

 

Calculation of Station Operating Income, Digital Media Operating Income and Publishing Operating Income (Loss)

 

Net broadcast revenue

 

$

45,180

$

44,048

 

Less broadcast operating expenses

 

 

(37,327)

 

(33,343)

 

Station Operating Income

 

$

7,853

$

10,705

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net digital media revenue

 

$

9,104

$

9,619

 

Less digital media operating expenses

 

 

(8,326)

 

(8,673)

 

Digital Media Operating Income

 

$

778

$

946

 

 

 

 

 

Net publishing revenue

$

3,966

$

5,686

 

Less publishing operating expenses

 

(5,062)

 

(5,205)

 

Publishing Operating Income (Loss)

$

(1,096)

$

481

The company defines EBITDA (1) as net income before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization. The table below presents a reconciliation of EBITDA (1) to Net Income (Loss), the most directly comparable GAAP measure. EBITDA (1) is a non-GAAP financial performance measure that is not to be considered a substitute for or superior to the directly comparable measures reported in accordance with GAAP. The company defines Adjusted EBITDA (1) as EBITDA (1) before gains or losses on the disposition of assets, before changes in the estimated fair value of contingent earn-out consideration, before impairments, before net miscellaneous income and expenses, before (gain) loss on early retirement of long-term debt and before non-cash compensation expense. The table below presents a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA (1) to Net Income (Loss), the most directly comparable GAAP measure. Adjusted EBITDA (1) is a non-GAAP financial performance measure that is not to be considered a substitute for or superior to the directly comparable measures reported in accordance with GAAP.

Salem Media Group, Inc.

Supplemental Information

(in thousands)

Three Months Ended

March 31,

2020

 

2021

 

(Unaudited)

Net income (loss)

$

(55,204

)

$

323

 

Plus interest expense, net of capitalized interest

4,032

 

3,926

 

Plus provision for income taxes

33,159

 

130

 

Plus depreciation and amortization

3,700

 

3,170

 

Less interest income

 

 

 

(1

)

EBITDA

$

(14,313

)

$

7,548

 

Less net (gain) loss on the disposition of assets

79

 

318

 

Less change in the estimated fair value of contingent

earn-out consideration

 

 

(5

)

 

 

 

Plus impairment of indefinite-lived long-term assets

other than goodwill

 

 

17,254

 

 

 

 

Plus impairment of goodwill

 

 

307

 

 

 

 

Plus gain on early retirement of long-term debt

(49

)

 

Plus net miscellaneous income and expenses

 

 

52

 

 

 

(22

)

Plus non-cash stock-based compensation

 

103

 

 

78

 

Adjusted EBITDA

$

3,428

 

$

7,922

 

The company defines Adjusted Free Cash Flow (1) as Adjusted EBITDA (1) less cash paid for capital expenditures, less cash paid for income taxes, and less cash paid for interest. The company considers Adjusted Free Cash Flow to be a liquidity measure that provides useful information to management and investors about the amount of cash generated by its operations after cash paid for capital expenditures, cash paid for income taxes and cash paid for interest. A limitation of Adjusted Free Cash Flow as a measure of liquidity is that it does not represent the total increase or decrease in its cash balance for the period. The company uses Adjusted Free Cash Flow, a non-GAAP liquidity measure, both in presenting its results to stockholders and the investment community, and in its internal evaluation and management of the business. The company’s presentation of Adjusted Free Cash Flow is not intended to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the financial information prepared and presented in accordance with GAAP. The company’s definition of Adjusted Free Cash Flow is not necessarily comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies.

The table below presents a reconciliation of Adjusted Free Cash Flow to net cash provided by operating activities, the most directly comparable GAAP measure. Adjusted Free Cash Flow is a non-GAAP liquidity measure that is not to be considered a substitute for or superior to the directly comparable measures reported in accordance with GAAP.

Salem Media Group, Inc.

Supplemental Information

(in thousands)

 

Three Months Ended

March 31,

2020

2021

(Unaudited)

Net cash provided by operating activities

$

7,733

$

9,197

Non-cash stock-based compensation

(103)

(78)

Depreciation and amortization

(3,700)

(3,170)

Amortization of deferred financing costs

(227)

(213)

Non-cash lease expense

 

 

(2,252)

 

 

(2,161)

Provision for bad debts

(1,900)

295

Deferred income taxes

(33,084)

(188)

Change in the estimated fair value of contingent earn- out consideration

 

 

5

 

 

Impairment of indefinite-lived long-term assets other than goodwill

 

 

(17,254)

 

 

Impairment of goodwill

 

 

(307)

 

 

Net (gain) loss on the disposition of assets

(79)

(318)

Gain on early retirement of long-term debt

49

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

 

Accounts receivable and unbilled revenue

(2,419)

(2,549)

Inventories

(70)

93

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

587

750

Accounts payable and accrued expenses

(4,478)

(2,490)

Contract liabilities

(133)

(1,122)

Operating lease liabilities (deferred rent)

2,407

2,497

Deferred rent income

 

 

84

 

 

(170)

Other liabilities

 

 

(6)

 

 

(29)

Income taxes payable

 

 

(57)

 

 

(21)

Net income (loss)

$

(55,204)

$

323

Plus interest expense, net of capitalized interest

4,032

3,926

Plus provision for (benefit from) income taxes

33,159

(79)

Plus depreciation and amortization

3,700

3,170

Less interest income

 

 

(1)

EBITDA

$

(14,313)

$

7,548

Plus net (gain) loss on the disposition of assets

79

318

Plus change in the estimated fair value of contingent earn-out consideration

 

 

(5)

 

 

Plus impairment of indefinite-lived long-term assets other than goodwill

 

 

17,254

 

 

Plus impairment of goodwill

 

 

307

 

 

Plus gain on early retirement of long-term debt

(49)

Plus net miscellaneous income and expenses

 

 

52

 

 

(22)

Plus non-cash stock-based compensation

 

103

 

78

Adjusted EBITDA

$

3,428

$

7,922

Less net cash paid for capital expenditures (1)

(1,587)

(1,859)

Plus cash received (paid for) taxes

(18)

79

Less cash paid for interest, net of capitalized interest

 

(165)

 

(53)

Adjusted Free Cash Flow

$

1,658

$

6,089

(1)

Net cash paid for capital expenditures reflects actual cash payments net of cash reimbursements under tenant improvement allowances and net of property and equipment acquired in trade transactions.

Selected Debt Data

Outstanding at

Applicable Interest Rate

March 31, 2021

Senior Secured Notes due 2024 (1)

$

216,341,000

6.75%

Asset-based revolving credit facility (2)

$

 

 

—%

Small Business Administration Paycheck Protection Plan loans (3)

$

11,194,895

 

 

1.00%

(1)

$216.3 million notes with semi-annual interest payments at an annual rate of 6.75%.

(2)

Outstanding borrowings under the ABL Facility, with interest spread ranging from Base Rate plus 0.50% to 1.00% for base rate borrowings and LIBOR plus 1.50% to 2.00% for LIBOR rate borrowings.

(3)

The PPP loans accrue interest at 1% annually and mature in five years for any amount that is not forgiven.

Evan D. Masyr
Executive Vice President and Chief
Financial Officer
(805) 384-4512
[email protected]

Source: Salem Media Group, Inc.

Entravision Communications Corporation (EVC) – Hits A Digital Home Run

Friday, May 07, 2021

Entravision Communications Corporation (EVC)
Hits A Digital Home Run

Entravision Communications Corporation is a diversified Spanish-language media company utilizing a combination of television and radio operations to reach Hispanic consumers across the United States, as well as the border markets of Mexico. Entravision owns and/or operates 53 primary television stations and is the largest affiliate group of both the top-ranked Univision television network and Univision’s TeleFutura network, with television stations in 20 of the nation’s top 50 Hispanic markets. The Company also operates one of the nation’s largest groups of primarily Spanish-language radio stations, consisting of 48 owned and operated radio stations.

Michael Kupinski, Director of Research, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.

    Q1 exceeds expectations. Q1 revenues increase 131% to $148.8 million, beating our estimate by nearly 20%. The extraordinary growth was primarily driven by the October 2020 acquisition of Cisneros Interactive, which increased revenues a remarkable 43% on a proforma basis, as if the company owned the operations a year earlier. Notably, the company’s Digital business represented 68% of total company revenues in the quarter, leading its diversified broadcast peers.

    Core advertising improves.  The strong Digital performance overshadowed the company’s underlying strength in its broadcast core advertising. Q1 core Television increased 3% and Audio (Radio) core increased 6%. Management indicated that Q2 core Television advertising is pacing up a strong 44%, 55% excluding Political. Radio is up 84%. Digital revenues are pacing up 900% …



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. 

Salem Media (SALM) – Steady As She Goes

Friday, May 07, 2021

Salem Media (SALM)
Steady As She Goes

Salem Media Group is America’s leading radio broadcaster, Internet content provider, and magazine and book publisher targeting audiences interested in Christian and family-themed content and conservative values. In addition to its radio properties, Salem owns Salem Radio Network, which syndicates talk, news and music programming to approximately 2700 affiliates; Salem Radio Representatives, a national radio advertising sales force; Salem Web Network, a leading Internet provider of Christian content and online streaming; and Salem Publishing, a leading publisher of Christian themed magazines. Salem owns and operates 115 radio stations, with 73 stations in the nation’s top 25 top markets – and 25 in the top 10. Each of our radio properties has a full portfolio of broadcast and digital marketing opportunities.

Michael Kupinski, Director of Research, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.

    Q1 exceeds expectations. Total company revenues increased 1.9% to $59.4 million versus our $56.4 million estimate. Cash flow, as measured by adjusted EBITDA, beat expectations as well, $7.9 million versus our estimate of $4.9 million. Each of the company’s operating segments performed better than our expectations, with the largest upside in its Publishing division.

    Favorable Q2 outlook.  Management indicated that Q2 revenues are expected to increase between 13% and 15%, which is slightly better than our expectations. Expense growth guidance between 6% and 9% is a little higher than we have modeled. As such, while we are raising our Q2 revenue estimate, we are tweaking lower our Q2 adj. EBITDA …



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. 

Release – Salem Media Group (SALM) – Announces First Quarter 2021 Total Revenue of $59.4 Million


Salem Media Group, Inc. Announces First Quarter 2021 Total Revenue of $59.4 Million

 

IRVING, Texas–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Salem Media Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: SALM) released its results for the three months ended March 31, 2021.

First Quarter 2021 Results

For the quarter ended March 31, 2021 compared to the quarter ended March 31, 2020: 

Consolidated

  • Total revenue increased 1.9% to $59.4 million from $58.3 million;
  • Total operating expenses decreased 27.9% to $55.0 million from $76.3 million;
  • Operating expenses, excluding gains or losses on the disposition of assets, stock-based compensation expense, changes in the estimated fair value of contingent earn-out consideration, impairments, depreciation expense and amortization expense (1) decreased 6.2% to $51.4 million from $54.8 million;
  • Operating income was $4.4 million compared to an operating loss of $18.0 million;
  • Net income was $0.3 million, or $0.01 net income per diluted share compared to a net loss of $55.2 million, or $2.07 net loss per share;
  • EBITDA (1) was $7.5 million compared to a loss of $14.3 million;
  • Adjusted EBITDA (1) increased 131.1% to $7.9 million from $3.4 million; and
  • Net cash used by operating activities increased 18.9% to $9.2 million from $7.7 million.

Broadcast

  • Net broadcast revenue decreased 2.5% to $44.0 million from $45.2 million;
  • Station Operating Income (“SOI”) (1) increased 36.3% to $10.7 million from $7.9 million;
  • Same Station (1) net broadcast revenue decreased 1.9% to $43.9 million from $44.8 million; and
  • Same Station SOI (1) increased 32.1% to $10.9 million from $8.2 million.

Digital Media

  • Digital media revenue increased 5.7% to $9.6 million from $9.1 million; and
  • Digital Media Operating Income (1) increased 21.6% to $0.9 million from $0.8 million.

Publishing

  • Publishing revenue increased 43.4% to $5.7 million from $4.0 million; and
  • Publishing Operating Income (1) was $0.5 million compared to a loss of $1.1 million.

Included in the results for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 are:

  • A $0.3 million ($0.2 million, net of tax, or $0.01 per share) net loss on the disposition of assets relates to the additional loss recorded at closing on the sale of radio station WKAT-AM and FM translator in Miami, Florida; and
  • A $0.1 million non-cash compensation charge ($0.1 million, net of tax) related to the expensing of stock options.

Included in the results for the quarter ended March 31, 2020 are:

  • A $17.3 million impairment charge ($12.8 million, net of tax, or $0.48 per share), of which $0.3 million related to impairment of mastheads, and the remainder to broadcast licenses due to the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic;
  • A $0.3 million impairment charge ($0.2 million, net of tax, or $0.01 per share) related to the company’s goodwill.; and
  • A $0.1 million non-cash compensation charge ($0.1 million, net of tax) related to the expensing of stock options.

Per share numbers are calculated based on 27,138,773 diluted weighted average shares for the quarter ended March 31, 2021, and 26,683,363 diluted weighted average shares for the quarter ended March 31, 2020.

Balance Sheet

As of March 31, 2021, the company had $216.3 million outstanding on the 6.75% senior secured notes due 2024 (the “Notes”) and no balance outstanding on the Asset Based Revolving Credit Facility (“ABL Facility”). The company received $11.2 million in aggregate principal amount of Paycheck Protection Plan (“PPP”) loans through the Small Business Administration that were available to our radio stations and networks under the Consolidated Appropriations Act.

Shelf Registration Statement and At-the-Market Facility

In April 2021, the company filed a prospectus supplement to our shelf registration statement on Form S-3 with the SEC covering the offering, issuance and sale of up to $15.0 million of the Company’s Class A Common Stock pursuant to an at-the-market facility, with B. Riley Securities, Inc. acting as sales agent.

Acquisitions and Divestitures

The following transactions were completed since January 1, 2021:

  • On April 28, 2021, the company closed on the acquisition of the Centerline New Media domain and digital assets for $1.3 million of cash. The digital content library will be operated within Salem Web Network’s church products division.
  • On March 18, 2021, the company sold radio station WKAT-AM and an FM translator in Miami, Florida for $3.5 million in cash. The company collected $3.2 million in cash upon closing and entered a promissory note for $0.3 million in cash due one year from the closing date.
  • On March 8, 2021, the company acquired the Triple Threat Trader newsletter. The company paid no cash at the time of closing and assumed deferred subscription liabilities of $0.1 million. As part of the purchase agreement, the company may pay up to an additional $11,000 in contingent earn-out consideration over the next two years based on the achievement of certain revenue benchmarks.

Pending transactions:

  • On April 20, 2021, the company entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement (“APA”) to sell Singing News Magazine and Singing News Radio (formerly Solid Gospel Network) for $0.1 million in cash. The buyer will assume the deferred subscription liability of $0.4 million. The sale is expected to close in the second quarter of 2021.
  • On April 10, 2021, the company entered into an agreement to sell approximately 34 acres of land in Lewisville, Texas, currently being used as the transmitter site for Company owned radio station KSKY-AM, for $12.1 million in cash. The company will retain enough of the property in the southwest corner of the site to operate the station. Following a due diligence period and satisfaction of several contingencies, the company expects to close on this transaction in the third quarter of 2021.
  • On February 4, 2021, the company entered into an APA to acquire KDIA-AM and KDYA-AM in San Francisco, California for $0.6 million in cash. The company paid $0.1 million in cash to an escrow account with $0.5 million of cash due upon closing. The purchase is subject to the approval of the FCC and is expected to close in the first half of 2021.
  • On February 5, 2020, the company entered into an APA with Word Broadcasting to sell radio stations WFIA-AM, WFIA-FM and WGTK-AM in Louisville, Kentucky for $4.0 million with a $250,000 credit applied to the sale price if closing occurs before March 31, 2020. Additionally, Word Broadcasting would receive a credit toward the purchase price of a sum equal to the monthly fees paid under the TBA that began in January 2017 for months 4-29 of the TBA and a sum equal to $2,000 per month for each monthly fee payment for months 30 and thereafter of the TBA; and a credit of the $450,000 option payment. The company estimated the loss on sale to be approximately $0.5 million net of tax if the sale closed by March 31, 2020 and $0.3 million net of tax if the sale closes later. Due to changes in debt markets, the transaction was not funded and it is uncertain when or if the transaction will close.

Conference Call Information

Salem will host a teleconference to discuss its results on May 6, 2021 at 4:00 p.m. Central Time. To access the teleconference, please dial (877) 524-8416, and then ask to be joined into the Salem Media Group First Quarter 2021 call or listen via the investor relations portion of the company’s website, located at investor.salemmedia.com. A replay of the teleconference will be available through May 20, 2021 and can be heard by dialing (877) 660-6853, passcode 13717857 or on the investor relations portion of the company’s website, located at investor.salemmedia.com.

Follow us on Twitter @SalemMediaGrp.

Second Quarter 2021 Outlook

For the second quarter of 2021, the company is projecting total revenue to increase between 13% and 15% from second quarter 2020 total revenue of $52.9 million. The company is also projecting operating expenses before gains or losses on the sale or disposal of assets, stock-based compensation expense, changes in the estimated fair value of contingent earn-out consideration, impairments, depreciation expense and amortization expense to increase between 6% and 9% compared to the second quarter of 2020 non-GAAP operating expenses of $50.1 million.

A reconciliation of non-GAAP operating expenses, excluding gains or losses on the disposition of assets, stock-based compensation expense, changes in the estimated fair value of contingent earn-out consideration, impairments, depreciation expense and amortization expense to the most directly comparable GAAP measure is not available without unreasonable efforts on a forward-looking basis due to the potential high variability, complexity and low visibility with respect to the charges excluded from this non-GAAP financial measure, in particular, the change in the estimated fair value of earn-out consideration, impairments and gains or losses from the disposition of fixed assets. The company expects the variability of the above charges may have a significant, and potentially unpredictable, impact on its future GAAP financial results.

About Salem Media Group, Inc.

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 (@SalemMediaGrp).

Forward-Looking Statements

Statements used in this press release that relate to future plans, events, financial results, prospects or performance are forward-looking statements as defined under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results may differ materially from those anticipated as a result of certain risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to the ability of Salem to close and integrate announced transactions, market acceptance of Salem’s radio station formats, competition from new technologies, adverse economic conditions, and other risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in Salem’s reports on Forms 10-K, 10-Q, 8-K and other filings filed with or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. Salem undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect new information, changed circumstances or unanticipated events.

(1) Regulation G

Management uses certain non-GAAP financial measures defined below in communications with investors, analysts, rating agencies, banks and others to assist such parties in understanding the impact of various items on its financial statements. The company uses these non-GAAP financial measures to evaluate financial results, develop budgets, manage expenditures and as a measure of performance under compensation programs.

The company’s presentation of these non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered as a substitute for or superior to the most directly comparable financial measures as reported in accordance with GAAP.

Regulation G defines and prescribes the conditions under which certain non-GAAP financial information may be presented in this earnings release. The company closely monitors EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Station Operating Income (“SOI”), Same Station net broadcast revenue, Same Station broadcast operating expenses, Same Station Operating Income, Digital Media Operating Income, Publishing Operating Income (Loss), and operating expenses excluding gains or losses on the disposition of assets, stock-based compensation, changes in the estimated fair value of contingent earn-out consideration, impairments, depreciation and amortization, all of which are non-GAAP financial measures. The company believes that these non-GAAP financial measures provide useful information about its core operating results, and thus, are appropriate to enhance the overall understanding of its financial performance. These non-GAAP financial measures are intended to provide management and investors a more complete understanding of its underlying operational results, trends and performance.

The company defines Station Operating Income (“SOI”) as net broadcast revenue minus broadcast operating expenses. The company defines Digital Media Operating Income as net Digital Media Revenue minus Digital Media Operating Expenses. The company defines Publishing Operating Income (Loss) as net Publishing Revenue minus Publishing Operating Expenses. The company defines EBITDA as net income before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization. The company defines Adjusted EBITDA as EBITDA before gains or losses on the disposition of assets, before changes in the estimated fair value of contingent earn-out consideration, before impairments, before net miscellaneous income and expenses, before gain on bargain purchase, before (gain) loss on early retirement of long-term debt and before non-cash compensation expense. SOI, Digital Media Operating Income, Publishing Operating Income (Loss), EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are commonly used by the broadcast and media industry as important measures of performance and are used by investors and analysts who report on the industry to provide meaningful comparisons between broadcasters. SOI, Digital Media Operating Income, Publishing Operating Income (Loss), EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are not measures of liquidity or of performance in accordance with GAAP and should be viewed as a supplement to and not a substitute for or superior to its results of operations and financial condition presented in accordance with GAAP. The company’s definitions of SOI, Digital Media Operating Income, Publishing Operating Income (Loss), EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are not necessarily comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies.

The company defines Adjusted Free Cash Flow as Adjusted EBITDA less cash paid for capital expenditures, less cash paid for income taxes, and less cash paid for interest. The company considers Adjusted Free Cash Flow to be a liquidity measure that provides useful information to management and investors about the amount of cash generated by its operations after cash paid for capital expenditures, cash paid for income taxes and cash paid for interest. A limitation of Adjusted Free Cash Flow as a measure of liquidity is that it does not represent the total increase or decrease in its cash balance for the period. The company uses Adjusted Free Cash Flow, a non-GAAP liquidity measure, both in presenting its results to stockholders and the investment community, and in its internal evaluation and management of the business. The company’s presentation of Adjusted Free Cash Flow is not intended to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the financial information prepared and presented in accordance with GAAP. The company’s definition of Adjusted Free Cash Flow is not necessarily comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies.

The company defines Same Station net broadcast revenue as broadcast revenue from its radio stations and networks that the company owns or operates in the same format on the first and last day of each quarter, as well as the corresponding quarter of the prior year. The company defines Same Station broadcast operating expenses as broadcast operating expenses from its radio stations and networks that the company owns or operates in the same format on the first and last day of each quarter, as well as the corresponding quarter of the prior year. The company defines Same Station SOI as Same Station net broadcast revenue less Same Station broadcast operating expenses. Same Station operating results include those stations that the company owns or operates in the same format on the first and last day of each quarter, as well as the corresponding quarter of the prior year. Same Station operating results for a full calendar year are calculated as the sum of the Same Station-results for each of the four quarters of that year. The company uses Same Station operating results, a non-GAAP financial measure, both in presenting its results to stockholders and the investment community, and in its internal evaluations and management of the business. The company believes that Same Station operating results provide a meaningful comparison of period over period performance of its core broadcast operations as this measure excludes the impact of new stations, the impact of stations the company no longer owns or operates, and the impact of stations operating under a new programming format. The company’s presentation of Same Station operating results are not intended to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the financial information prepared and presented in accordance with GAAP. The company’s definition of Same Station operating results is not necessarily comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies.

For all non-GAAP financial measures, investors should consider the limitations associated with these metrics, including the potential lack of comparability of these measures from one company to another.

The Supplemental Information tables that follow the condensed consolidated financial statements provide reconciliations of the non-GAAP financial measures that the company uses in this earnings release to the most directly comparable measures calculated in accordance with GAAP. The company uses non-GAAP financial measures to evaluate financial performance, develop budgets, manage expenditures, and determine employee compensation. The company’s presentation of this additional information is not to be considered as a substitute for or superior to the directly comparable measures as reported in accordance with GAAP.

Salem Media Group, Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations

(in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

 

2020

 

 

2021

 

 

 

 

(Unaudited)

Net broadcast revenue

 

$

45,180

 

 

$

44,048

 

Net digital media revenue

 

 

9,104

 

 

 

9,619

 

Net publishing revenue

 

 

3,966

 

 

 

5,686

 

Total revenue

 

 

58,250

 

 

 

59,353

 

Operating expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Broadcast operating expenses

 

 

37,327

 

 

 

33,343

 

 

Digital media operating expenses

 

 

8,326

 

 

 

8,673

 

 

Publishing operating expenses

 

 

5,062

 

 

 

5,205

 

 

Unallocated corporate expenses

 

 

4,210

 

 

 

4,288

 

 

Change in the estimated fair value of contingent earn-out consideration

 

 

(5

)

 

 

 

 

Impairment of indefinite-lived long-term assets other than goodwill

 

 

17,254

 

 

 

 

 

Impairment of goodwill

 

 

307

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

 

3,700

 

 

 

3,170

 

 

Net (gain) loss on the disposition of assets

 

 

79

 

 

 

318

 

Total operating expenses

 

 

76,260

 

 

 

54,997

 

Operating income (loss)

 

 

(18,010

)

 

 

4,356

 

Other income (expense):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest income

 

 

 

 

 

1

 

 

Interest expense

 

 

(4,032

)

 

 

(3,926

)

 

Gain on early retirement of long-term debt

 

 

49

 

 

 

 

 

Net miscellaneous income and (expenses)

 

 

(52

)

 

 

22

 

Net income (loss) before income taxes

 

 

(22,045

)

 

 

453

 

Provision for income taxes

 

 

33,159

 

 

 

130

 

Net income (loss)

 

$

(55,204

)

 

$

323

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic earnings (loss) per share Class A and Class B common stock

 

$

(2.07

)

 

$

0.01

 

Diluted earnings (loss) per share Class A and Class B common stock

 

$

(2.07

)

 

$

0.01

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic weighted average Class A and Class B common stock shares outstanding

 

 

26,683,363

 

 

 

26,736,639

 

Diluted weighted average Class A and Class B common stock shares outstanding

 

 

26,683,363

 

 

 

27,138,773

 

Salem Media Group, Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2020

 

 

March 31, 2021

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Unaudited)

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash

 

$

6,325

 

$

23,394

 

Trade accounts receivable, net

 

 

24,469

 

 

22,974

 

Other current assets

 

 

15,002

 

 

11,739

 

Property and equipment, net

 

 

79,122

 

 

78,598

 

Operating and financing lease right-of-use assets

 

 

48,355

 

 

46,646

 

Intangible assets, net

 

 

347,547

 

 

347,093

 

Deferred financing costs

 

 

213

 

 

187

 

Other assets

 

 

3,538

 

 

3,323

 

Total assets

 

$

524,571

 

$

533,954

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities

 

$

50,860

 

$

49,280

 

Long-term debt

 

 

213,764

 

 

225,143

 

Operating and financing lease liabilities, less current portion

 

 

47,847

 

 

46,152

 

Deferred income taxes

 

 

68,883

 

 

69,071

 

Other liabilities

 

 

7,938

 

 

8,236

 

Stockholders’ Equity

 

 

135,279

 

 

136,072

 

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

 

$

524,571

 

$

533,954

 

SALEM MEDIA GROUP, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

Class A

 

Class B

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common Stock

 

Common Stock

 

Additional

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Paid-In

 

Accumulated

 

Treasury

 

 

 

Shares

 

Amount

 

Shares

 

Amount

 

Capital

 

Earnings (Deficit)

 

Stock

 

Total

Stockholders’ equity, December 31, 2019

 

23,447,317

 

$

227

 

 

5,553,696

 

$

56

 

$

246,680

 

$

(23,294

)

 

$

(34,006

)

 

$

189,663

 

Stock-based compensation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

103

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

103

 

Cash distributions

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(667

)

 

 

 

 

 

(667

)

Net loss

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(55,204

)

 

 

 

 

 

(55,204

)

Stockholders’ equity, March 31, 2020

 

23,447,317

 

$

227

 

 

5,553,696

 

$

56

 

$

246,783

 

$

(79,165

)

 

$

(34,006

)

 

$

133,895

 

Distributions per share

$

0.025

 

 

 

$

0.025

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Class A

 

Class B

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common Stock

 

Common Stock

 

Additional

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Paid-In

 

Accumulated

 

Treasury

 

 

 

Shares

 

Amount

 

Shares

 

Amount

 

Capital

 

Earnings (Deficit)

 

Stock

 

Total

Stockholders’ equity, December 31, 2020

 

23,447,317

 

$

227

 

 

5,553,696

 

$

56

 

$

247,025

 

$

(78,023

)

 

$

(34,006

)

 

$

135,279

 

Stock-based compensation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

78

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

78

 

Options exercised

 

185,782

 

 

2

 

 

 

 

 

 

390

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

392

 

Net income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

323

 

 

 

 

 

 

323

 

Stockholders’ equity,

March 31, 2021

 

23,633,099

 

$

229

 

 

5,553,696

 

$

56

 

$

247,493

 

$

(77,700

)

 

$

(34,006

)

 

$

136,072

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SALEM MEDIA GROUP, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Dollars in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

Three Months Ended
March 31,

 

2020

 

 

2021

 

OPERATING ACTIVITIES

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

$

(55,204

)

 

$

323

 

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Non-cash stock-based compensation

 

103

 

 

 

78

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

3,700

 

 

 

3,170

 

Amortization of deferred financing costs

 

227

 

 

 

213

 

Non-cash lease expense

 

2,252

 

 

 

2,161

 

Provision for bad debts

 

1,900

 

 

 

(295

)

Deferred income taxes

 

33,084

 

 

 

188

 

Change in the estimated fair value of contingent earn-out consideration

 

(5

)

 

 

 

Impairment of indefinite-lived long-term assets other than goodwill

 

17,254

 

 

 

 

Impairment of goodwill

 

307

 

 

 

 

Gain on early retirement of long-term debt

 

(49

)

 

 

 

Net (gain) loss on the disposition of assets

 

79

 

 

 

318

 

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts receivable and unbilled revenue

 

2,419

 

 

 

2,549

 

Inventories

 

70

 

 

 

(93

)

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

 

(587

)

 

 

(750

)

Accounts payable and accrued expenses

 

4,478

 

 

 

2,490

 

Operating lease liabilities

 

(2,407

)

 

 

(2,497

)

Contract liabilities

 

133

 

 

 

1,122

 

Deferred rent income

 

(84

)

 

 

170

 

Other liabilities

 

6

 

 

 

29

 

Income taxes payable

 

57

 

 

 

21

 

Net cash provided by operating activities

 

7,733

 

 

 

9,197

 

INVESTING ACTIVITIES

 

 

 

 

 

Cash paid for capital expenditures net of tenant improvement allowances

 

(1,587

)

 

 

(1,859

)

Capital expenditures reimbursable under tenant improvement allowances and trade agreements

 

(84

)

 

 

 

Deposit on broadcast assets and radio station acquisitions

 

 

 

 

(100

)

Proceeds from sale of assets

 

2

 

 

 

3,501

 

Other

 

(428

)

 

 

(238

)

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities

 

(2,097

)

 

 

1,304

 

FINANCING ACTIVITIES

 

 

 

 

 

Payments to repurchase 6.75% Senior Secured Notes

 

(3,392

)

 

 

 

Proceeds from borrowings under ABL Facility

 

33,319

 

 

 

16

 

Payments on ABL Facility

 

(31,745

)

 

 

(5,016

)

Proceeds from borrowings under PPP Loans

 

 

 

 

11,195

 

Payments of debt issuance costs

 

(1

)

 

 

(3

)

Proceeds from the exercise of stock options

 

 

 

 

392

 

Payments on financing lease liabilities

 

(18

)

 

 

(16

)

Payment of cash distribution on common stock

 

(667

)

 

 

 

Book overdraft

 

(1,885

)

 

 

 

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

 

(4,389

)

 

 

6,568

 

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

 

1,247

 

 

 

17,069

 

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

 

6

 

 

 

6,325

 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

$

1,253

 

 

$

23,394

 

Salem Media Group, Inc.

Supplemental Information

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

 

2020

 

2021

 

 

 

(Unaudited)

 

Reconciliation of Total Operating Expenses to Operating Expenses excluding Gains or Losses on the disposition of assets, Stock-based Compensation Expense, Changes in the Estimated Fair Value of Contingent Earn-out Consideration, Impairments and Depreciation and Amortization Expense (Recurring Operating Expenses)

 

Operating Expenses

 

$

76,260

 

$

54,997

 

Less depreciation and amortization expense

 

 

(3,700)

 

 

(3,170)

 

Less change in estimated fair value of contingent earn-out

consideration

 

 

5

 

 

 

Less impairment of indefinite-lived long-term assets other

than goodwill

 

 

(17,254)

 

 

 

Less impairment of goodwill

 

 

(307)

 

 

 

Less net (gain) loss on the disposition of assets

 

 

(79)

 

 

(318)

 

Less stock-based compensation expense

 

 

(103)

 

 

(78)

 

Total Recurring Operating Expenses

 

$

54,822

 

$

51,431

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reconciliation of Net Broadcast Revenue to Same Station Net Broadcast Revenue

 

Net broadcast revenue

 

$

45,180

 

$

44,048

 

Net broadcast revenue – acquisitions

 

 

 

 

 

Net broadcast revenue – dispositions

 

 

(223)

 

 

4

 

Net broadcast revenue – format change

 

 

(176)

 

 

(140)

 

Same Station net broadcast revenue

 

$

44,781

 

$

43,912

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Broadcast operating expenses

 

$

37,327

 

$

33,343

 

Broadcast operating expenses – acquisitions

 

 

 

 

 

Broadcast operating expenses – dispositions

 

 

(502)

 

 

(106)

 

Broadcast operating expenses – format change

 

 

(260)

 

 

(178)

 

Same Station broadcast operating expenses

 

$

36,565

 

$

33,059

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reconciliation of SOI to Same Station SOI

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Station Operating Income

 

$

7,853

 

$

10,705

 

Station operating loss – acquisitions

 

 

 

 

 

Station operating loss – dispositions

 

 

279

 

 

110

 

Station operating loss – format change

 

 

84

 

 

38

 

Same Station – Station Operating Income

 

$

8,216

 

$

10,853

 

Salem Media Group, Inc.

Supplemental Information

(in thousands)

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

 

2020

 

2021

 

 

 

(Unaudited)

 

Calculation of Station Operating Income, Digital Media Operating Income and Publishing Operating Income (Loss)

 

Net broadcast revenue

 

$

45,180

$

44,048

 

Less broadcast operating expenses

 

 

(37,327)

 

(33,343)

 

Station Operating Income

 

$

7,853

$

10,705

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net digital media revenue

 

$

9,104

$

9,619

 

Less digital media operating expenses

 

 

(8,326)

 

(8,673)

 

Digital Media Operating Income

 

$

778

$

946

 

 

 

 

 

Net publishing revenue

$

3,966

$

5,686

 

Less publishing operating expenses

 

(5,062)

 

(5,205)

 

Publishing Operating Income (Loss)

$

(1,096)

$

481

The company defines EBITDA (1) as net income before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization. The table below presents a reconciliation of EBITDA (1) to Net Income (Loss), the most directly comparable GAAP measure. EBITDA (1) is a non-GAAP financial performance measure that is not to be considered a substitute for or superior to the directly comparable measures reported in accordance with GAAP. The company defines Adjusted EBITDA (1) as EBITDA (1) before gains or losses on the disposition of assets, before changes in the estimated fair value of contingent earn-out consideration, before impairments, before net miscellaneous income and expenses, before (gain) loss on early retirement of long-term debt and before non-cash compensation expense. The table below presents a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA (1) to Net Income (Loss), the most directly comparable GAAP measure. Adjusted EBITDA (1) is a non-GAAP financial performance measure that is not to be considered a substitute for or superior to the directly comparable measures reported in accordance with GAAP.

Salem Media Group, Inc.

Supplemental Information

(in thousands)

Three Months Ended

March 31,

2020

 

2021

 

(Unaudited)

Net income (loss)

$

(55,204

)

$

323

 

Plus interest expense, net of capitalized interest

4,032

 

3,926

 

Plus provision for income taxes

33,159

 

130

 

Plus depreciation and amortization

3,700

 

3,170

 

Less interest income

 

 

 

(1

)

EBITDA

$

(14,313

)

$

7,548

 

Less net (gain) loss on the disposition of assets

79

 

318

 

Less change in the estimated fair value of contingent

earn-out consideration

 

 

(5

)

 

 

 

Plus impairment of indefinite-lived long-term assets

other than goodwill

 

 

17,254

 

 

 

 

Plus impairment of goodwill

 

 

307

 

 

 

 

Plus gain on early retirement of long-term debt

(49

)

 

Plus net miscellaneous income and expenses

 

 

52

 

 

 

(22

)

Plus non-cash stock-based compensation

 

103

 

 

78

 

Adjusted EBITDA

$

3,428

 

$

7,922

 

The company defines Adjusted Free Cash Flow (1) as Adjusted EBITDA (1) less cash paid for capital expenditures, less cash paid for income taxes, and less cash paid for interest. The company considers Adjusted Free Cash Flow to be a liquidity measure that provides useful information to management and investors about the amount of cash generated by its operations after cash paid for capital expenditures, cash paid for income taxes and cash paid for interest. A limitation of Adjusted Free Cash Flow as a measure of liquidity is that it does not represent the total increase or decrease in its cash balance for the period. The company uses Adjusted Free Cash Flow, a non-GAAP liquidity measure, both in presenting its results to stockholders and the investment community, and in its internal evaluation and management of the business. The company’s presentation of Adjusted Free Cash Flow is not intended to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the financial information prepared and presented in accordance with GAAP. The company’s definition of Adjusted Free Cash Flow is not necessarily comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies.

The table below presents a reconciliation of Adjusted Free Cash Flow to net cash provided by operating activities, the most directly comparable GAAP measure. Adjusted Free Cash Flow is a non-GAAP liquidity measure that is not to be considered a substitute for or superior to the directly comparable measures reported in accordance with GAAP.

Salem Media Group, Inc.

Supplemental Information

(in thousands)

 

Three Months Ended

March 31,

2020

2021

(Unaudited)

Net cash provided by operating activities

$

7,733

$

9,197

Non-cash stock-based compensation

(103)

(78)

Depreciation and amortization

(3,700)

(3,170)

Amortization of deferred financing costs

(227)

(213)

Non-cash lease expense

 

 

(2,252)

 

 

(2,161)

Provision for bad debts

(1,900)

295

Deferred income taxes

(33,084)

(188)

Change in the estimated fair value of contingent earn- out consideration

 

 

5

 

 

Impairment of indefinite-lived long-term assets other than goodwill

 

 

(17,254)

 

 

Impairment of goodwill

 

 

(307)

 

 

Net (gain) loss on the disposition of assets

(79)

(318)

Gain on early retirement of long-term debt

49

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

 

Accounts receivable and unbilled revenue

(2,419)

(2,549)

Inventories

(70)

93

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

587

750

Accounts payable and accrued expenses

(4,478)

(2,490)

Contract liabilities

(133)

(1,122)

Operating lease liabilities (deferred rent)

2,407

2,497

Deferred rent income

 

 

84

 

 

(170)

Other liabilities

 

 

(6)

 

 

(29)

Income taxes payable

 

 

(57)

 

 

(21)

Net income (loss)

$

(55,204)

$

323

Plus interest expense, net of capitalized interest

4,032

3,926

Plus provision for (benefit from) income taxes

33,159

(79)

Plus depreciation and amortization

3,700

3,170

Less interest income

 

 

(1)

EBITDA

$

(14,313)

$

7,548

Plus net (gain) loss on the disposition of assets

79

318

Plus change in the estimated fair value of contingent earn-out consideration

 

 

(5)

 

 

Plus impairment of indefinite-lived long-term assets other than goodwill

 

 

17,254

 

 

Plus impairment of goodwill

 

 

307

 

 

Plus gain on early retirement of long-term debt

(49)

Plus net miscellaneous income and expenses

 

 

52

 

 

(22)

Plus non-cash stock-based compensation

 

103

 

78

Adjusted EBITDA

$

3,428

$

7,922

Less net cash paid for capital expenditures (1)

(1,587)

(1,859)

Plus cash received (paid for) taxes

(18)

79

Less cash paid for interest, net of capitalized interest

 

(165)

 

(53)

Adjusted Free Cash Flow

$

1,658

$

6,089

(1)

Net cash paid for capital expenditures reflects actual cash payments net of cash reimbursements under tenant improvement allowances and net of property and equipment acquired in trade transactions.

Selected Debt Data

Outstanding at

Applicable Interest Rate

March 31, 2021

Senior Secured Notes due 2024 (1)

$

216,341,000

6.75%

Asset-based revolving credit facility (2)

$

 

 

—%

Small Business Administration Paycheck Protection Plan loans (3)

$

11,194,895

 

 

1.00%

(1)

$216.3 million notes with semi-annual interest payments at an annual rate of 6.75%.

(2)

Outstanding borrowings under the ABL Facility, with interest spread ranging from Base Rate plus 0.50% to 1.00% for base rate borrowings and LIBOR plus 1.50% to 2.00% for LIBOR rate borrowings.

(3)

The PPP loans accrue interest at 1% annually and mature in five years for any amount that is not forgiven.

Evan D. Masyr
Executive Vice President and Chief
Financial Officer
(805) 384-4512
[email protected]

Source: Salem Media Group, Inc.

Cumulus Media Inc. (CMLS) – An Ebullient Advertising Picture Emerges

Thursday, May 06, 2021

Cumulus Media Inc. (CMLS)
An Ebullient Advertising Picture Emerges

CUMULUS MEDIA, Inc. (NASDAQ: CMLS) is a leading audio-first media and entertainment company delivering premium content to over a quarter billion people every month — wherever and whenever they want it. CUMULUS MEDIA engages listeners with high-quality local programming through 428 owned-and-operated stations across 87 markets; delivers nationally-syndicated sports, news, talk, and entertainment programming from iconic brands including the NFL, the NCAA, the Masters, the Olympics, the GRAMMYS, the American Country Music Awards, and many other world-class partners across nearly 8,000 affiliated stations through Westwood One, the largest audio network in America; and inspires listeners through its rapidly growing network of original podcasts that are smart, entertaining and thought-provoking. CUMULUS MEDIA provides advertisers with local impact and national reach through on-air, digital, mobile, and voice-activated media solutions, as well as access to integrated digital marketing services, powerful influencers, and live event experiences. CUMULUS MEDIA is the only audio media company to provide marketers with local and national advertising performance guarantees.

Michael Kupinski, Director of Research, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.

    Q1 overachieves. Q1 revenues of $201.7 million exceed our $185.0 million estimate on stronger than expected Spot and Digital revenue. Cash flow, as measured by adj. EBITDA, was better than expected due to stronger revenues and expense reduction, $8.9 million versus our loss estimate of $650,000.

    Q2 pacings appear encouraging.  The tone of Radio advertising has significantly improved, with Q2 pacing up a strong 35%. We believe that pacings will further improve throughout the quarter and our 51% Q2 revenue growth estimate appears achievable. We are raising our Q2 adj. EBITDA estimate from $21.1 million to $24.6 million to reflect better cost savings …



This 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. 

Gray Television Inc. (GTN) – Leapfrogs Into The “Super” Broadcast League

Tuesday, May 04, 2021

Gray Television Inc. (GTN)
Leapfrogs Into The “Super” Broadcast League

Gray Television, Inc. operates as a television broadcast company in the United States. As of April 6, 2010, it operated 36 television stations in 30 markets, including 17 affiliated with CBS Inc.; 10 affiliated with the National Broadcasting Company, Inc.; 8 affiliated with the American Broadcasting Company (ABC); and 1 affiliated with FOX Entertainment Group, Inc. (FOX). The company also operated 39 digital second channels comprising 1 affiliated with ABC, 4 affiliated with FOX, 7 affiliated with CW Network, LLC, 18 affiliated with Twentieth Television, Inc., 2 affiliated with Universal Sports Network, and 7 local news/weather channels. Gray Television, Inc. was founded in 1897 and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia.

Michael Kupinski, Director of Research, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.

    Gains national scale.  The company will leap frog into the big leagues covering 36% of US TV households, without the UHF discount rule, upon the planned purchase of Meredith’s TV group. The purchase price of $2.7 billion represents 7.9 times blended 2019/2020 cash flow, after synergies, a reasonable price, in our view. The deal is expected to close year end 2021.

    Move viewed favorably.  The Meredith stations dovetail nicely with the company’s existing stations and creates significant scale in many States, including Nevada, Arizona, Missouri, positioning it well for Political advertising. The company plans to sell only one overlap station in Flint, MI, to expedite regulatory approval, which is expected …



This 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.