Release – Gray Media Announces Coverage Plans for 2024 Democratic National Convention

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ATLANTA, Aug. 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gray Media (NYSE: GTN) today announced comprehensive coverage plans for the 2024 Democratic National Convention.  

Starting Monday, August 19, through the conclusion of the convention on Thursday, August 22, Gray’s Washington DC Bureau and news teams from 13 Gray affiliates will report from Chicago on the local impact of the presidential and vice presidential nomination process and the Democratic party platform.   Coverage will be carried on Gray’s local affiliates and Local News Live, Gray’s national news network that provides live streaming coverage on more than 500 Gray station websites, connected TV apps, and mobile apps.

“The combined reporting power of Local News Live, the DC Bureau, and Gray newsrooms will provide substantial DNC coverage with a unique local perspective to our 113 markets across the country,” Gray’s Chief Operating Officer Sandy Breland said.  

All Gray-owned Wisconsin news operations will send reporting teams to the convention, including WMTV in Madison, WBAY in Green Bay, WEAU in Eau Claire, WSAW in Wausau, and KBJR in Superior (Duluth).  In addition, news crews from Gray affiliates WANF in Atlanta, Georgia, AZ Family in Phoenix, Arizona, WNDU in South Bend, Indiana, KHNL in Honolulu, Hawaii, WCAX in Burlington, Vermont, KTTC in Rochester, Minnesota, KEYC in Mankato, Minnesota, and KVLY in Fargo, North Dakota will be on site to provide daily coverage.

“We are dedicated to covering the biggest stories through a local lens,” explained Lisa Allen, General Manager of Gray’s Washington Operation. “With journalists in more than 100 markets, Gray’s teams can cover more ground than any other news source through Election Day.”

About Gray Media:

Gray Media, or Gray, is a multimedia company headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, formally known as Gray Television, Inc.  The company is the nation’s largest owner of top-rated local television stations and digital assets serving 113 television markets that collectively reach approximately 36 percent of US television households. The portfolio includes 77 markets with the top-rated television station and 100 markets with the first and/or second highest rated television station, as well as the largest Telemundo Affiliate group with 43 markets totaling nearly 1.5 million Hispanic TV Households.  The company also owns Gray Digital Media, a full-service digital agency offering national and local clients digital marketing strategies with the most advanced digital products and services.  Gray’s additional media properties include video production companies Raycom Sports, Tupelo Media Group, and PowerNation Studios, and studio production facilities Assembly Atlanta and Third Rail Studios. Gray owns a majority interest in Swirl Films. For more information, please visit www.graymedia.com.

Gray Contact:

Sandy Breland, Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, 404-266-8333

Release – Snail, Inc. Reports Second Quarter 2024 Financial Results

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CULVER CITY, Calif., Aug. 13, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Snail, Inc. (NASDAQ: SNAL) (“Snail” or “the Company”), a leading, global independent developer and publisher of interactive digital entertainment, today announced financial results for its second quarter ended June 30, 2024.

Tony Tian, Co-Chief Executive Officer commented, “I’m honored to lead Snail alongside an amazing team as we continue to build upon the company’s incredible legacy of innovation and creativity. Our unwavering passion for delivering exceptional gaming experiences, as showcased by the phenomenal launch of ARK: Survival Ascended, will continue to propel Snail to future successes and victories. Looking ahead, we are excited to expand the reach of our premium mods and introduce new content that will delight our growing community of players worldwide.”

Second Quarter 2024 Highlights:

  • ARK: Survival Ascended and ARK: Survival Evolved
    • On October 25, 2023, the Company launched its flagship remake of the ARK franchise leveraging Unreal Engine 5’s stunning graphics and introduced a game-altering cross-platform modding system, ushering in a new era of creativity.
    • In the three and six months ended June 30, 2024, ARK: Survival Evolved and ARK: Survival Ascended combined for an average total of 218,241 and 213,690 daily active users (“DAUs”) on the Steam and Epic platforms, respectively, as compared to 240,522 and 258,235 in the three and six months ended June 30, 2023, respectively.
    • Through June 30, 2024, our ARK franchise game has been played for 3.7 billion hours with an average playing time per user of 161 hours and with the top 21.1% of all players spending over 100 hours in the game, according to data from the Steam platform.
    • Since its launch, ARK: Survival Ascended sold approximately 2.5 million units and has an average of 108,515 daily active users (“DAUs”) with a peak of 307,875 DAUs.
    • ARK: Survival Evolved averaged a total of approximately 131,927 DAUs and sold approximately 0.5 million units in the second quarter of 2024.
    • In the second quarter of 2024, the Company successfully launched Bellwright, a medieval survival game, Bob’s Tall Tales DLC for ARK: Survival Ascended and the Power Rangers premium mod for ARK: Survival Ascended . Furthermore, a full-size DLC expansion, Scorched Earth, was made available to all ARK: Survival Ascended owners.

Net revenue for the three months ended June 30, 2024 was $21.6 million compared to $9.9 million in the three months ended June 30, 2023. The increase in net revenue was due to an increase in total Ark sales of $10.0 million, an increase in sales of the Company’s other games of $3.9 million driven by the release of Bellwright, partially offset by a decrease in Ark Mobile sales of $0.3 million and an increase in deferred revenue of $1.9 million related to the Ark franchise.

Net income for the three months ended June 30, 2024 was $2.3 million compared to a net loss of $4.1 million for the three months ended June 30, 2023. The improvement in net income is due to an increase in net revenue of $11.7 million, decreased general and administrative expenses of $1.2 million, and an increase in total other income (expense) of $0.5 million, partially offset by increased research and development expenses of $0.7 million, increased advertising and marketing expenses of $0.5 million, increased costs of revenue of $4.2 million and a decrease in benefit from income taxes of $1.7 million.

Bookings for the three months ended June 30, 2024 was $22.9 million as compared to $9.3 million for the three months ended June 30, 2023, the increase was primarily due to the release of ARK: Survival Ascended in the fourth quarter of 2023, and the release of Bobs Tall Tales and Bellwright along with the ARK: Survival Ascended DLC, Scorched Earth in April 2024. In addition to increased net sales of the aforementioned titles, the Company deferred approximately $7.1 million in revenue during the three months ended June 30, 2024 for the ARK: Survival Ascended DLC’s and parts of Bobs Tall Tales which have not yet released; partially offset by the recognition of $5.6 million for the release of Scorched Earth.

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the three months ended June 30, 2024 was $3.1 million compared to a loss of $4.8 million in the prior year period. The increase was due to the improvement in net income of $6.4 million and a decrease in the benefit from income taxes of $1.7 million.

As of June 30, 2024, unrestricted cash was $15.5 million.

Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

In addition to the financial results determined in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP, Snail believes Bookings and EBITDA, as non-GAAP measures, are useful in evaluating its operating performance. Bookings and EBITDA are non-GAAP financial measures that are presented as supplemental disclosures and should not be construed as alternatives to net income (loss) or revenue as indicators of operating performance, nor as alternatives to cash flow provided by operating activities as measures of liquidity, both as determined in accordance with GAAP. Snail supplementally presents Bookings and EBITDA because they are key operating measures used by management to assess financial performance. Bookings adjusts for the impact of deferrals and, Snail believes, provides a useful indicator of sales in a given period. EBITDA adjusts for items that Snail believes do not reflect the ongoing operating performance of its business, such as certain non-cash items, unusual or infrequent items or items that change from period to period without any material relevance to its operating performance. Management believes Bookings and EBITDA are useful to investors and analysts in highlighting trends in Snail’s operating performance, while other measures can differ significantly depending on long-term strategic decisions regarding capital structure, the tax jurisdictions in which Snail operates and capital investments.

Bookings is defined as the net amount of products and services sold digitally or physically in the period. Bookings is equal to revenue, excluding the impact from deferrals. Below is a reconciliation of total net revenue to Bookings, the closest GAAP financial measure.

Click here for full report

Release – Salem Media Group Announces New West Region Digital Sales Director Christian Kligora

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CAMARILLO, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Salem Media Group, Inc. (OTCQX: SALM) announced Christian Kligora as the new West Region Digital Sales Director on its digital marketing firm, Salem Surround.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240523736968/en/

Christian Kligora (Photo: Business Wire)

Christian brings a wealth of digital marketing and operational experience to Salem with his work for Marketron where he served in an executive leadership position driving business development. Prior to that, Christian had over a decade of building teams and driving revenue and operational growth for Gannett’s Local IQ and its predecessor, ReachLocal where he oversaw the growth and management of many local and regional offices.

Jon Latzer, Vice President, General Manager of Salem Surround, said, “Christian Kligora is a generational find and will help Salem Surround achieve both revenue growth and help with operational efficiencies. We are excited to have him join our expanding team while leading our Western Region to new heights of success.”

“I’m excited to join the fantastic team at Salem Media,” said Christian Kligora. “Joining Salem represents a unique opportunity to contribute to a media landscape that values integrity, innovation, and impact. I am eager to partner with our linear/digital sales teams to explore innovative ways to connect with our audience.”

Christian is based in Denver where he lives with his wife Angela.

ABOUT SALEM MEDIA GROUP:

Salem Media Group is America’s leading multimedia company specializing in Christian and conservative content, with media properties comprising radio, digital media and book and newsletter publishing. Each day Salem serves a loyal and dedicated audience of listeners and readers numbering in the millions nationally. With its unique programming focus, Salem provides compelling content, fresh commentary and relevant information from some of the most respected figures across the Christian and conservative media landscape. Learn more about Salem Media Group, Inc. at www.salemmedia.com.

Evan D. Masyr
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
(805) 384-4512
evan@salemmedia.com

Source: Salem Media Group, Inc.

Released May 28, 2024

Release – AdTheorent Holding Company, Inc. Enters into Agreement to be Acquired by Cadent, LLC for Approximately $324 Million Representing $3.21 Per Share

Research News and Market Data on ADTH

Apr 1, 2024

NEW YORK, April 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AdTheorent Holding Company, Inc. (“AdTheorent” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: ADTH), a machine learning pioneer delivering measurable value for programmatic advertisers, and Cadent, LLC (“Cadent”), a leading provider of platform-based converged TV advertising solutions and a portfolio company of Novacap, one of North America’s established private equity firms, today announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement under which a wholly owned subsidiary of Cadent will acquire the Company in an all-cash transaction. Upon closing of the transaction, AdTheorent will become a privately held company.

Under the terms of the definitive merger agreement, which has been unanimously approved by AdTheorent’s Board of Directors (the “Board”), the Company’s common stockholders will receive cash consideration of $3.21 per share.   The transaction represents an equity value for the Company of approximately $324 million and represents a 17% premium to the 60-day volume weighted average stock price as of March 28, 2024 and a 27% premium to the 90-day volume weighted average stock price as of March 28, 2024. The definitive merger agreement also includes a 33-day “go shop” period that will allow the Company to affirmatively solicit alternative proposals from interested parties.

“The AdTheorent Board determined that this transaction delivers immediate, certain and significant value to the Company’s shareholders reflecting the tremendous commitment and work of our employees and stakeholders,” said Eric Tencer, AdTheorent’s Chairman of the Board. “The transaction and the upcoming “go shop” process underscores the Board’s commitment to maximizing value for shareholders.”

James Lawson, CEO of AdTheorent, said, “The transaction validates the actions and investments we have made to best position AdTheorent in our target markets since becoming a public company two years ago. The partnership with Cadent and Novacap will provide AdTheorent additional scale and resources for continued success as part of a private company.”

Transaction Details:

The transaction is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2024 and is subject to approval by AdTheorent’s stockholders, expiration or termination of the applicable waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as well as other customary closing conditions. Upon completion of the transaction, AdTheorent common stock will no longer be listed on the Nasdaq Stock Exchange or trade in any other public market.

Fully committed debt financing in support of the transaction is being provided by Royal Bank of Canada. The transaction is not subject to a financing condition.

The definitive merger agreement includes a 33-day “go-shop” period that will expire at 11:59 PM ET on May 4, 2024, which permits AdTheorent and its financial advisor to actively solicit and consider alternative acquisition proposals. There can be no assurance that this process will result in a superior proposal, and the Company does not intend to disclose developments with respect to the “go-shop” process unless and until it determines such disclosure is appropriate or is otherwise required.

H.I.G. Growth Partners, LLC and its affiliated investors, along with members of the AdTheorent Board and management who together own or control approximately 40% of the Company’s outstanding shares, have each entered into a voting and support agreement pursuant to which they have agreed, among other things, to vote their respective shares of AdTheorent common stock in favor of the transaction.

Advisors:

Canaccord Genuity is acting as financial advisor and McDermott Will & Emery LLP is acting as legal counsel to AdTheorent in connection with the proposed transaction. Moelis & Company LLC is acting as lead financial advisor, and Baker Botts LLP is providing legal counsel to Cadent.

About AdTheorent:

AdTheorent uses advanced machine learning technology to deliver impactful advertising campaigns for marketers. AdTheorent’s advanced machine learning-powered media buying platform powers its predictive targeting, predictive audiences audience extension solutions and in-house creative capability, Studio A\T. Focused on the predictive value of machine learning models, AdTheorent’s product suite and flexible transaction models allow advertisers to identify the most qualified potential consumers coupled with the optimal creative experience to deliver superior results, measured by each advertiser’s real-world business goals. AdTheorent is headquartered in New York, with fourteen locations across the United States and Canada.

AdTheorent is consistently recognized with numerous technology, product, growth and workplace awards. AdTheorent was named “Best Buy-Side Programmatic Platform” in the 2023 Digiday Technology Awards and was honored with an AI Breakthrough Award and “Most Innovative Product” (B.I.G. Innovation Awards) for six consecutive years. Additionally, AdTheorent is the only seven-time recipient of Frost & Sullivan’s “Digital Advertising Leadership Award.” In September 2023, evidencing its continued prioritization of its team, AdTheorent was named a Crain’s Top 100 Best Place to Work in NYC for the tenth consecutive year. AdTheorent ranked tenth in the Large Employer Category and 26th Overall in 2023. For more information, visit adtheorent.com.

About Cadent:

Cadent connects the TV advertising ecosystem. Cadent helps advertisers and publishers identify and understand audiences, activate campaigns, and measure what matters – across any TV content or device. Aperture, the company’s converged TV platform, simplifies cross-screen advertising through a streamlined workflow that brings together identity, data, and inventory with hundreds of integrated partners. For more information, visit cadent.tv.

About Novacap:

Founded in 1981, Novacap is a leading North American private equity firm with over C$8B of AUM that has invested in more than 100 platform companies and completed more than 150 add-on acquisitions. Applying its sector-focused approach since 2007 in Industries, TMT, Financial Services, and Digital Infrastructure, Novacap’s deep domain expertise can accelerate company growth and create long-term value. With experienced, dedicated investment and operations teams as well as substantial capital, Novacap has the resources and knowledge that help build world-class businesses. Novacap has offices in Montreal, Toronto, and New York.

For more information, please visit www.novacap.ca.

Additional Information and Where to Find It:

The Company intends to file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) a preliminary proxy statement and furnish or file other materials with the SEC in connection with the proposed transaction. Once the SEC completes its review of the preliminary proxy statement, a definitive proxy statement will be filed with the SEC and mailed to the stockholders of the Company. This communication is not intended to be, and is not, a substitute for the proxy statement or any other document that the Company may file with the SEC in connection with the proposed transaction. BEFORE MAKING ANY VOTING DECISION, ADTHEORENT’S STOCKHOLDERS ARE URGED TO READ THE PROXY STATEMENT AND THOSE OTHER MATERIALS CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION AND THE PARTIES TO THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION.

The proxy statement and other relevant materials (when they become available), and any other documents filed by the Company with the SEC, may be obtained free of charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. In addition, security holders will be able to obtain free copies of the proxy statement from AdTheorent by going to the Company’s Investor Relations page on its corporate website at www.adtheorent.com.

No Offer or Solicitation:

This release is not intended to and shall not constitute an offer to buy or sell the solicitations of an offer to buy or sell any securities, or a solicitation of any vote or approval, nor shall there be any offer, solicitation or sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offer of securities shall be made in the United States absent registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, such registration requirements.

Participants in the Solicitation:

This communication does not constitute a solicitation of proxy, an offer to purchase or a solicitation of an offer to sell any securities. AdTheorent and its directors and executive officers may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the stockholders of AdTheorent in connection with the proposed transaction. Information regarding the interests of these directors and executive officers in the transaction will be included in the proxy statement described above. Additional information regarding the directors and executive officers of AdTheorent is included in the AdTheorent proxy statement for its 2023 Annual Meeting, which was filed with the SEC on April 12, 2023, and is supplemented by other public filings made, and to be made, with the SEC by AdTheorent. To the extent the holdings of AdTheorent securities by AdTheorent’s directors and executive officers have changed since the amounts set forth in the proxy statement for its 2023 Annual Meeting, such changes have been or will be reflected on Statements of Change in Ownership on Form 4 filed with the SEC. Additional information regarding the interests in the transaction of AdTheorent’s participants in the solicitation, which may, in some cases, be different than those of AdTheorent’s stockholders generally, will be included in AdTheorent’s proxy statement relating to the proposed transaction when it becomes available. These documents are available free of charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov and at the Investor Relations page on AdTheorent’s corporate website at www.adtheorent.com.

Forward Looking Statements:

This communication contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, any statement that may predict, forecast, indicate or imply future results, performance or achievements, and may contain words such as “believe,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “estimate,” “intend,” “project,” “plan,” or words or phrases with similar meaning. Such statements may also include statements regarding the completion of the proposed merger and the expected timing of the completion of the proposed merger, the management of AdTheorent upon completion of the proposed merger and AdTheorent’s plans upon completion of the proposed merger. Forward-looking statements should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results and will not necessarily be accurate indications of the times at, or by, which such performance or results will be achieved. Forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, forecasts and assumptions that involve risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, the market for programmatic advertising developing slower or differently than the Company’s expectations, the demands and expectations of clients and the ability to attract and retain clients and other economic, competitive, governmental and technological factors outside of the Company’s control, that may cause the Company’s business, strategy or actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements. Actual future results, performance or achievements may differ materially from historical results or those anticipated depending on a variety of factors, some of which are beyond the control of AdTheorent, including, but not limited to, the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the merger agreement; the inability to complete the proposed merger due to the failure to obtain stockholder approval for the proposed merger or the failure to satisfy other conditions to completion of the proposed merger; risks related to disruption of management’s attention from AdTheorent’s ongoing business operations due to the proposed merger; unexpected costs, charges or expenses resulting from the proposed merger; AdTheorent’s ability to retain and hire key personnel in light of the proposed merger; certain restrictions during the pendency of the proposed merger that may impact AdTheorent’s ability to pursue certain business opportunities or strategic transactions; the ability of the buyer to obtain the necessary financing arrangements set forth in the commitment letters received in connection with the proposed merger; potential litigation relating to the proposed merger that could be instituted against the parties to the merger agreement or their respective directors, managers or officers, including the effects of any outcomes related thereto; the effect of the announcement of the proposed merger on AdTheorent’s relationships with its customers, operating results and business generally; and the risk that the proposed merger will not be consummated in a timely manner, if at all.The Company does not intend and undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable law. Investors are referred to AdTheorent’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K and any subsequent filings on Forms 10-Q or 8-K, for additional information regarding the risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statement.

Investor Contact:

David DeStefano, ICR
AdTheorentIR@icrinc.com
(203) 682-8383

Press Contact:

Melanie Berger, AdTheorent
melanie@adtheorent.com
(850) 567-0082

Release – AdTheorent Partners with Adelaide to Utilize Attention-Based Metrics for Campaign Optimization and Measurement

Research News and Market Data on ADTH

Jan 16, 2024

PDF Version

Added In-flight metrics will further enhance campaign performance

NEW YORK, Jan. 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — AdTheorent Holding Company, Inc. (Nasdaq: ADTH), a machine-learning pioneer and industry leader using privacy-forward solutions to deliver measurable value for programmatic advertisers, and Adelaide, the leader in attention-based media quality measurement, today announced a partnership enabling AdTheorent to utilize Adelaide’s attention-based metrics for campaign optimization and to quantify digital advertising campaign impact.

   

Adelaide’s omnichannel AU metric is used for attention-based quality measurement across digital advertising campaigns.  The AU score goes beyond viewability, using modeling to evaluate various qualifiers, including ad placement context, position, duration, business outcomes, and eye tracking. With access to Adelaide data, AdTheorent can use top attention-driving tactics to drive campaign performance across multiple formats and channels including display, online video, and connected television (CTV).  In addition to AU scores, AdTheorent advertisers can gain insight into metrics such as Cost Per AU and Performance by Feature (i.e., creative, device, etc.). Additionally, AdTheorent can utilize Adelaide measurement in conjunction with other studies, such as sales lift, brand awareness, and visitation, to determine the impact of attention-based metrics on business outcomes.

“AdTheorent’s ML-powered DSP puts advertisers first by executing highly successful campaigns that are free from waste and inefficiency, and by driving tangible business outcomes across a variety of advertiser-specified KPIs,” said Jim Lawson, CEO, AdTheorent. “We are excited about our partnership with Adelaide which allows us to optimize and measure campaigns utilizing insightful attention-based metrics.”

“AU offers predictive insights into campaign performance with unmatched precision. Its integration into AdTheorent’s DSP means advertisers can easily secure higher-quality media and drive better outcomes at scale,” said Marc Guldimann, CEO & Co-founder, Adelaide. “We’re excited to collaborate with AdTheorent to make attention data actionable, steering advertisers towards smarter investment decisions and an understanding of true media quality.”

About AdTheorent
AdTheorent (Nasdaq: ADTH) uses advanced machine learning technology and privacy-forward solutions to deliver impactful advertising campaigns for marketers. AdTheorent’s machine learning-powered media buying platform powers its predictive targeting, predictive audiences, geo-intelligence, audience extension solutions and in-house creative capability, Studio A\T. Leveraging only non-sensitive data and focused on the predictive value of machine learning models, AdTheorent’s product suite and flexible transaction models allow advertisers to identify the most qualified potential consumers coupled with the optimal creative experience to deliver superior results, measured by each advertiser’s real-world business goals. 

AdTheorent is consistently recognized with numerous technology, product, growth and workplace awards.  AdTheorent was named “Best Buy-Side Programmatic Platform” in the 2023 Digiday Technology Awards and was honored with an AI Breakthrough Award and “Most Innovative Product” (B.I.G. Innovation Awards) for five consecutive years.  Additionally, AdTheorent is the only seven-time recipient of Frost & Sullivan’s “Digital Advertising Leadership Award.” AdTheorent is headquartered in New York, with fourteen offices across the United States and Canada.  For more information, visit adtheorent.com.

About Adelaide
Adelaide is the leader in attention-based media quality measurement. Our mission is to bring increased transparency and fairness to advertising by supplying the market with a precise, omnichannel media quality metric connected to business outcomes. Adweek has called Adelaide’s AU “the attention economy’s most widely recognized metric.” Proven to predict full-funnel outcomes more accurately than any existing metric, AU helps the world’s largest brands make smarter investment decisions, activate attention data programmatically, and drive better performance. Adelaide is named after the global epicenter of evidence-based marketing in southern Australia and headquartered in New York City. For more information, visit adelaidemetrics.com.

   

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/adtheorent-partners-with-adelaide-to-utilize-attention-based-metrics-for-campaign-optimization-and-measurement-302035837.html

SOURCE AdTheorent

Melanie Berger, AdTheorent, melanie@adtheorent.com, 850-567-0082

E.W. Scripps (SSP) – Favorable Tailwinds in 2024


Monday, November 06, 2023

The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ: SSP) is a diversified media company focused on creating a better-informed world. As one of the nation’s largest local TV broadcasters, Scripps serves communities with quality, objective local journalism and operates a portfolio of 61 stations in 41 markets. The Scripps Networks reach nearly every American through the national news outlets Court TV and Newsy and popular entertainment brands ION, Bounce, Defy TV, Grit, ION Mystery, Laff and TrueReal. Scripps is the nation’s largest holder of broadcast spectrum. Scripps runs an award-winning investigative reporting newsroom in Washington, D.C., and is the longtime steward of the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Founded in 1878, Scripps has held for decades to the motto, “Give light and the people will find their own way.”

Michael Kupinski, Director of Research, Equity Research Analyst, Digital, Media & Technology , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

Overachieves Q3 expectations. Total company revenue of $ 566.5 million was in line with our expectations of $567.0 million. But, the company overachieved adj. EBITDA, $100.9 million versus our $84.0 million estimate, with the upside variance split evenly between its Local Media and Network segments. 

Adds color on its sports initiative. Management indicated that its two NHL sports licenses will account for a 4% point increase in its core advertising in the fourth quarter and 3% for the full year 2023. The sports license in Las Vegas allowed the company to flip an ION station to an independent station allowing it to receive substantial retransmission revenue. 


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Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.

This 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 (SSP) – Heading Into A Favorable Cycle


Tuesday, October 17, 2023

The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ: SSP) is a diversified media company focused on creating a better-informed world. As one of the nation’s largest local TV broadcasters, Scripps serves communities with quality, objective local journalism and operates a portfolio of 61 stations in 41 markets. The Scripps Networks reach nearly every American through the national news outlets Court TV and Newsy and popular entertainment brands ION, Bounce, Defy TV, Grit, ION Mystery, Laff and TrueReal. Scripps is the nation’s largest holder of broadcast spectrum. Scripps runs an award-winning investigative reporting newsroom in Washington, D.C., and is the longtime steward of the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Founded in 1878, Scripps has held for decades to the motto, “Give light and the people will find their own way.”

Michael Kupinski, Director of Research, Equity Research Analyst, Digital, Media & Technology , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Jacob Mutchler, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

Highlights from a recent NDR. On October 12th, Adam Symson, CEO; Jason Combs, CFO; and Carolyn Micheli hosted investor meetings in New York. Management highlighted positive developments in retransmission revenue and Scripps Sports. Notably, Scripps Sports employs a unique model that offers sports teams wider viewership than the traditional RSN model that is now failing.

Renegotiates 75% of its subscribers.  The company recently announced that it has completed retransmission negotiations with 75% of its current subscribers. As a result, the company reaffirmed its guidance that retransmission revenue will increase a strong 15% in 2024 to roughly $750 million.


Get the Full Report

Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.

This 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. 

Cumulus Media (CMLS) – Some Hopeful Signs Total Revenues Are Stabilizing


Monday, July 31, 2023

Cumulus Media (NASDAQ: CMLS) is an audio-first media 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 406 owned-and-operated radio stations across 86 markets; delivers nationally-syndicated sports, news, talk, and entertainment programming from iconic brands including the NFL, the NCAA, the Masters, CNN, the AP, the Academy of Country Music Awards, and many other world-class partners across more than 9,500 affiliated stations through Westwood One, the largest audio network in America; and inspires listeners through the Cumulus Podcast Network, its rapidly growing network of original podcasts that are smart, entertaining and thought-provoking. Cumulus Media provides advertisers with personal connections, local impact and national reach through broadcast and on-demand digital, mobile, social, and voice-activated platforms, as well as integrated digital marketing services, powerful influencers, full-service audio solutions, industry-leading research and insights, and live event experiences. Cumulus Media is the only audio media company to provide marketers with local and national advertising performance guarantees. For more information visit www.cumulusmedia.com.

Michael Kupinski, Director of Research, Equity Research Analyst, Digital, Media & Technology , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Jacob Mutchler, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

Q2 operating results. The company reported quarterly revenue of $210.1 million, in line with our estimate of $208.3 million.  While National/Network advertising remains weak, Local advertising has some greenshoots particularly with Digital Marketing Services revenue. Adj. EBITDA in the quarter was $28.7 million, beating our estimate of $21.8 million by an impressive 32%, excluding a $2 million nonrecurring benefit. The adj. EBITDA surprise was attributed to aggressive cost cutting efforts. 

Positive DMS outlook. Digital Marketing Services performed strongly, with revenue up 21% in the latest quarter. Management believes there is significant untapped growth potential in local DMSand is tripling its salesforce. Management anticipates an increase of 3x to 4x its current revenue run rate of $40 million in the next few years. 


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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) – Looking Beyond The Investment Year


Wednesday, May 10, 2023

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.

Michael Kupinski, Director of Research, Equity Research Analyst, Digital, Media & Technology , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Patrick McCann, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

In-line Q1 results. The company reported Q1 revenue of $63.5 million, beating our estimate of $62 million by 2.4%.  Revenue in the quarter was driven by slightly better than expected broadcast and publishing revenues. Adj. EBITDA of $1.4 million was largely in line with our estimate of $1.7 million. 

Sizeable cost reductions. The company eliminated $5 million in annualized costs in the first quarter. The savings were included in management issued guidance for Q2 and full year 2023, and are expected to have an equal impact in each quarter moving forward. We believe that the company is managing cash flow while investing in its Digital businesses and into Salem News. 


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This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).

*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision. 

Lee Enterprises (LEE) – Focused On A Growing Digital Future


Wednesday, May 10, 2023

Lee Enterprises, Incorporated provides local news, information, and advertising primarily in midsize markets in the United States. It publishes 49 daily newspapers, as well as offers 300 weekly newspapers and specialty publications in 23 states. The company also provides online advertising and services; and online infrastructure and online publishing services for approximately 1,500 daily and weekly newspapers and shoppers. In addition, it offers commercial printing services. The company has a strategic alliance with Yahoo!, Inc. to provide its classified employment advertising customer base the opportunity to post job listings and other employment products on Yahoo!�s HotJobs national platform. Lee Enterprises, Incorporated was founded in 1890 and is based in Davenport, Iowa.

Michael Kupinski, Director of Research, Equity Research Analyst, Digital, Media & Technology , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

Post quarterly review. The company delivered a solid fiscal second quarter in spite of heavy economic headwinds and secular pressure on its print legacy business. Notably, its Digital businesses performed well, and its digital subscriber growth continues to lead the industry. We believe that the company will be able to achieve its FY 2023 revenue and adj. EBITDA guidance given its attention to costs.

Reiterates guidance. Management reiterated its previously issued FY 2023 guidance of $270 to $285 million in digital revenues, $94 to $100 million in adj. EBITDA, 632,000 digital subscribers and cash costs in the range of $610 to $620 million. While management did not provide guidance for print revenues, we are flowing through Q2 operating results to our full year 2023 forecast.


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Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.

This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).

*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision. 

Gray Television (GTN) – Compelling Total Return Potential


Tuesday, May 09, 2023

Gray Television is a multimedia company headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. We are the nation’s largest owner of top-rated local television stations and digital assets in the United States. Our television stations serve 113 television markets that collectively reach approximately 36 percent of US television households. This portfolio includes 80 markets with the top-rated television station and 100 markets with the first and/or second highest rated television station. We also own video program companies Raycom Sports, Tupelo Honey, PowerNation Studios and Third Rail Studios.

Michael Kupinski, Director of Research, Equity Research Analyst, Digital, Media & Technology , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

Solid Q1 results. The company reported quarterly revenue of $801 million, 2.9% better than our estimate of $778.5 million, and adj. EBITDA of $162 million, which was in line with our estimate. Results are illustrated in Figure #1 Q1 Results. While all business segments reported stronger than expected revenues, political revenues of $8 million was the biggest surprise versus our estimate of $2 million. 

Favorable advertising momentum. In spite of the macroeconomic headwinds core advertising is pacing ahead of last year. We believe that a good portion of its positive advertising momentum is coming from revenue synergies. In addition, Auto advertising appears to be rebounding, pacing up double-digits. Looking ahead, the company is also likely to benefit from annual Net Retransmission revenue growth, when it renews 58% of its MVPD contracts later this year. Moreover, management expects Net Retransmission revenue growth to accelerate in 2024. 


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Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.

This 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 (GTN) – Core Advertising Is Outpacing Its Peers


Monday, May 08, 2023

Gray Television is a multimedia company headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. We are the nation’s largest owner of top-rated local television stations and digital assets in the United States. Our television stations serve 113 television markets that collectively reach approximately 36 percent of US television households. This portfolio includes 80 markets with the top-rated television station and 100 markets with the first and/or second highest rated television station. We also own video program companies Raycom Sports, Tupelo Honey, PowerNation Studios and Third Rail Studios.

Michael Kupinski, Director of Research, Equity Research Analyst, Digital, Media & Technology , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Patrick McCann, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

Solid Q1 results. The company reported quarterly revenue of  $801 million, 2.9% better than our estimate of $778.5 million, and adj. EBITDA of $162 million, which was in line with our estimate. Results are illustrated in Figure #1 Q1 Results. While all business segments reported stronger than expected revenues, political revenues of $8 million was the biggest surprise versus our estimate of $2 million. 

Favorable momentum. In spite of the macroeconomic headwinds, Q2 core advertising pacing is up a surprising 4%. We believe that a good portion of its positive advertising momentum is coming from revenue synergies. In addition, Auto advertising appears to be rebounding, pacing up double-digits. Looking ahead, the company is also likely to benefit from annual Net Retransmission revenue growth, when it renews the majority of its MVPD contracts later this year. Moreover, management expects Net Retransmission revenue growth to accelerate in 2024.  


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Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.

This 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. 

Lee Enterprises (LEE) – A Solid Quarter; Reaffirms Full Year Guidance


Friday, May 05, 2023

Lee Enterprises, Incorporated provides local news, information, and advertising primarily in midsize markets in the United States. It publishes 49 daily newspapers, as well as offers 300 weekly newspapers and specialty publications in 23 states. The company also provides online advertising and services; and online infrastructure and online publishing services for approximately 1,500 daily and weekly newspapers and shoppers. In addition, it offers commercial printing services. The company has a strategic alliance with Yahoo!, Inc. to provide its classified employment advertising customer base the opportunity to post job listings and other employment products on Yahoo!�s HotJobs national platform. Lee Enterprises, Incorporated was founded in 1890 and is based in Davenport, Iowa.

Michael Kupinski, Director of Research, Equity Research Analyst, Digital, Media & Technology , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Patrick McCann, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

Solid Q2 results. Q2 revenue of $170.7 million, missed our estimate of $173.7 million by 1.7%. While revenue came in slightly lower than expected adj. EBITDA of $14.3 million beat our estimate of $13.5 million by 6.4%. The results benefited from stronger than expected high margin digital subscription revenue. Notably, print cost reductions were enacted late in Q2, resulting in $9 million of savings in the quarter.


Industry leading digital subscriber growth. The company achieved 596,000 digital subscribers and digital revenue now comprises 38% of total revenue. For 13 consecutive quarters, it experienced the fastest digital subscriber growth in the industry, with an impressive compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 49%. It appears to be well on its way to reach its goal of 900,000 digital subscribers and digital revenue comprising 50% of total revenue by 2026.


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Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.

This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).

*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision.