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.
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.
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.
Jacob Mutchler, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
Delist and Deregister. The company announced that its Special Committee recommended to delist its shares on the Nasdaq Global Market and to deregister the Class A shares with the SEC, reversing its intent to stay the suspension of its shares from being delisted. The delisting is expected to become effective Jan. 18, 2024, at which time, the company plans that it shares will be quoted on the OTCQX or other market operated by OTC Markets Group.
Significant savings. Given the move to delist, the company will no longer be required to publish a quarterly 10Q and host quarterly investor calls. We estimate that the move to delist and deregister its shares will save the company over $1.2 million annually.
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.
IRVING, Texas–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Salem Media Group, Inc. (the “Company”) (NASDAQ: SALM) announced today that it has given formal notice to the Nasdaq Stock Market of its intention to voluntarily delist its Class A Common Stock from the Nasdaq Global Market and to deregister its Class A Common Stock under Section 12(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”).
The Company currently anticipates that it will file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) a Form 25 (Notification of Removal of Listing) on or about January 8, 2024, with the delisting of its Class A Common Stock taking effect no earlier than ten days thereafter. As a result, the Company expects that the last trading day of its common stock on the Nasdaq Global Market will be on or about January 18, 2024. Further, prior to March 29, 2024, the Company intends to file a Form 15 with the SEC to suspend the Company’s reporting obligations under Sections 12(g) and 15(d) of the Exchange Act.
The Company anticipates significant financial savings as a result of this decision. In addition, delisting and deregistration provide several benefits to the Company and its stockholders including lower operating costs and reduced management time commitment for compliance and reporting activities.
The Company anticipates that its Class A Common Stock will be quoted on the OTCQX or other market operated by OTC Markets Group Inc. (the “OTC”), and it intends to take such actions to enable its Class A Common Stock to be quoted on the OTCQX or on another OTC market so that a trading market may continue to exist for its Class A Common Stock. The Company expects its Class A Common Stock to be quoted on the OTCQX Market beginning on or around January 19, 2024, pending approval by OTC Markets.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS:
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The Company intends such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Such statements, including statements regarding the expected timing and process for delisting and deregistering the Company’s Class A Common Stock, are based upon current plans, estimates and expectations of management that are subject to various risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from such statements. The inclusion of forward-looking statements should not be regarded as a representation that such plans, estimates and expectations will be achieved. All forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those that we expected, including, but not limited to, the Company’s ability to facilitate the quoting of its Class A Common Stock on the OTCQX or another OTC market, and other important factors discussed in the Company’s reports on Forms 10-K, 10-Q, 8-K and other filings filed with or furnished to the SEC. Readers are urged to consider these factors carefully and in the totality of the circumstances when evaluating these forward-looking statements, and not to place undue reliance on any of them. Any such forward-looking statements represent management’s reasonable estimates and beliefs as of the date of this press release. We assume no obligation to publicly update or revise these forward-looking statements for any reason, or to update the reasons actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements, even if new information becomes available in the future.
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.
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.
Jacob Mutchler, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
Announces a new credit facility. The company announced that it has a new $26.0 million credit facility with Siena Lending Group, replacing its prior revolver with Wells Fargo Bank. We believe that the new revolver allows some financial flexibility as the company works to close on the sale of its Church Publishing division.
Likely to largely pay off the revolver. The sale of Salem Church Products business to Gloo, LLC for $30 million has been somewhat delayed, but is still on track to close imminently. In our view, the proceeds from the sale will be used to largely pay off the company’s revolver, providing further financial flexibility.
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.
IRVING, Texas–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Salem Media Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: SALM) announced today that it has closed a new $26.0 million 3-year asset-based revolving credit facility with Siena Lending Group (the “New Revolving Facility”), which refinanced its prior revolving facility with Wells Fargo Bank.
Obligations under the New Revolving Facility are secured by a first-priority lien on the Company’s and its subsidiaries’ accounts receivable, inventory, deposit and securities accounts, certain real estate and related assets, and a second-priority lien on substantially all other assets of the Company and its subsidiaries.
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 our ability to close and integrate announced transactions, market acceptance of our radio station formats, competition from new technologies, inflation and other adverse economic conditions, and other risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in our 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. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect new information, changed circumstances or unanticipated events.
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.
IRVING, Texas–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Salem Media Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: SALM) announced today that it has reached an agreement with Skyhorse Publishing to sell Regnery Publishing. The company expects to close the transaction by the end of the year.
David Evans, Chief Operating Officer of Salem Media, said, “We are thrilled to pass the torch of the oldest and most respected conservative publishing company in America to Free Speech advocate Tony Lyons and his incredibly successful Skyhorse Publishing. Salem is committed to the dissemination of conservative ideas and is excited that Skyhorse will both be a powerful steward of this important brand and an engine for its future growth.”
Tony Lyons, President and Publisher of Skyhorse Publishing, added, “We are so pleased to acquire this legendary publishing company, founded over 75 years ago, and are committed to building on the strong foundation that the Regnery staff has developed. We see a lot of synergies and opportunities for growth and will work hard to promote, market, and sell the books we have acquired and those that are pending, as well as to develop and pursue exciting new projects. Regnery will be an imprint of Skyhorse Publishing and will maintain its own identity.”
The more than 1,500 Regnery titles will be absorbed into the Skyhorse Publishing catalogue. The former Washington D.C. based publishing house was founded in 1947 by Henry Regnery and acquired an impressive list of authors over its 75 years, including former President Donald Trump, Senator Rand Paul, Senator Ted Cruz, Senator Mitt Romney, Tulsi Gabbard, Eric Metaxas, former President Ronald Regan, and Ann Coulter.
ABOUT SKYHORSE PUBLISHING:
Skyhorse Publishing, one of the largest independent book publishers in the United States, was launched in September 2006 by Tony Lyons, former president and publisher of the Lyons Press. The company has had fifty-seven New York Times bestsellers and currently has over 10,000 titles in print.
Skyhorse maintains a firm stance against censorship and aims to provide a full spectrum of political, theological, cultural, and philosophical viewpoints to counter the increasingly biased environment in mainstream media.
Through its twenty imprints, Skyhorse publishes an eclectic and maverick list of titles. Its imprints — Allworth Press, Arcade Crime Wise, Arcade Publishing, Carrel Books, Children’s Health Defense, Clydesdale Press, Front Page Detectives, Good Books, Helios Press, Hot Books, Night Shade Books, Not For Tourists, Racehorse For Young Readers, Racehorse Publishing, Sky Pony Press, Sports Publishing, Talos Press, Yucca Publishing, Skyhorse Publishing, and World Almanac — cover everything from nature, sports, country living, history, reference, travel, humor, health, art, business, philosophy, religion, current events, politics, investigative and conspiracy, to fiction, literary nonfiction, science fiction, fantasy, and young adult and children’s literature. Its backlist includes more than ten thousand titles. Skyhorse is distributed by Simon & Schuster in the U.S. and abroad.
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.
IRVING, Texas–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Salem Media Group, Inc. (the “company”) (Nasdaq: SALM) released its results for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023.
Third Quarter 2023 Results
For the three months ended September 30, 2023 compared to the three months ended September 30, 2022:
Consolidated
Total revenue decreased 5.0% to $63.5 million from $66.9 million;
Total operating expenses increased 31.9% to $99.8 million from $75.6 million;
Operating expenses, excluding stock-based compensation expense, debt modification costs, gains and losses on the sale or disposition of assets, impairments, depreciation expense and amortization expense (1) increased 0.2% to $61.0 million from $60.8 million;
Operating loss increased to $36.3 million from $8.8 million;
Net loss increased to $31.3 million, or $1.15 net loss per share, from $11.9 million, or $0.44 net loss per share;
EBITDA (1) decreased to $(33.1) million from $(5.7) million; and
Adjusted EBITDA (1) increased 9.3% to $2.5 million from $2.3 million.
Broadcast
Net broadcast revenue decreased 4.2% to $49.0 million from $51.1 million;
Station Operating Income (“SOI”) (1) decreased 31.8% to $6.8 million from $10.0 million;
Same Station (1) net broadcast revenue decreased 4.9% to $48.6 million from $51.0 million; and
Same Station SOI (1) decreased 28.2% to $7.3 million from $10.1 million.
Digital Media
Digital media revenue decreased 2.2% to $10.0 million from $10.2 million; and
Digital Media Operating Income (1) decreased 20.9% to $1.5 million from $1.9 million.
Publishing
Publishing revenue decreased 17.5% to $4.6 million from $5.5 million; and
Publishing Operating Loss (1) increased 36.6% to $1.4 million from $1.0 million.
Included in the results for the three months ended September 30, 2023 are:
A $35.1 million ($26.0 million, net of tax, or $0.95 per share) impairment charge to the value of broadcast licenses in Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, Colorado Springs, Columbus, Dallas, Detroit, Greenville, Little Rock, Miami, New York, Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Portland, Sacramento, San Diego, San Francisco and Tampa;
A $0.7 million ($0.5 million, net of tax, or $0.02 per share) impairment charge to the value of goodwill in Townhall and Salem Author Services;
A $0.5 million ($0.3 million, net of tax, or $0.01 per diluted share) net gain on the disposition of asset relates primarily to the $0.4 million pre-tax gain on the sale of radio stations in Seattle, Washington; and
A $0.1 million non-cash compensation charge ($0.1 million, net of tax) related to the expense of stock options.
Included in the results for the three months ended September 30, 2022 are:
A $7.7 million ($5.7 million, net of tax, or $0.21 per share) impairment charge to the value of broadcast licenses in Boston, Chicago, Columbus, Dallas, Greenville, Honolulu, Little Rock, Orlando, Philadelphia, Portland, Sacramento, and San Francisco;
A $0.2 million ($0.1 million, net of tax) loss on the disposal of assets;
A $3.8 million ($2.8 million, net of tax, or $0.10 per share) legal settlement expense; and
A $0.1 million non-cash compensation charge related to the expensing of stock options.
Per share numbers are calculated based on 27,216,787 diluted weighted average shares for the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022.
Year to Date 2023 Results
For the nine months ended September 30, 2023 compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2022:
Consolidated
Total revenue decreased 2.7% to $192.8 million from $198.2 million;
Total operating expenses increased 21.9% to $237.3 million from $194.6 million;
Operating expenses, excluding gains or losses on the disposition of assets, stock-based compensation expense, debt modification costs, changes in the estimated fair value of contingent earn-out consideration, impairments, depreciation expense and amortization expense (1) increased 5.4% to $186.2 million from $176.6 million;
The company had an operating loss of $44.6 million as compared to operating income of $3.5 million;
The company recognized $4.0 million in film distribution income from an unconsolidated equity investment in the nine months ended September 30, 2022;
Net loss increased to $43.5 million, or $1.60 net loss per share, from $1.0 million, or $0.04 net loss per share;
EBITDA (1) decreased to $(34.3) million from $17.0 million; and
Adjusted EBITDA (1) decreased 68.4% to $6.6 million from $20.8 million.
Broadcast
Net broadcast revenue decreased 3.3% to $147.0 million from $152.0 million;
SOI (1) decreased 40.7% to $18.5 million from $31.2 million;
Same station (1) net broadcast revenue decreased 3.8% to $146.1 million from $151.8 million; and
Same station SOI (1) decreased 35.9% to $20.1 million from $31.3 million.
Digital media
Digital media revenue increased 0.1% to $31.3 million; and
Digital media operating income (1) decreased 22.4% to $4.8 million from $6.2 million.
Publishing
Publishing revenue decreased 2.7% to $14.4 million from $14.8 million; and
Publishing Operating Loss (1) increased 81.3% to $2.9 million from $1.6 million.
Included in the results for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 are:
A $38.4 million ($28.4 million, net of tax, or $1.04 per share) impairment charge to the value of broadcast licenses in Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, Colorado Springs, Columbus, Dallas, Detroit, Greenville, Little Rock, Miami, New York, Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Portland, Sacramento, San Diego, San Francisco and Tampa;
A $2.6 million ($1.9 million, net of tax, or $0.07 per share) impairment charge to the value of goodwill in Townhall and Salem Author Services;
A $0.1 million loss on the early retirement of long-term debt associated with the 2024 Notes;
A $0.3 million ($0.2 million, net of tax, or $0.01 per diluted share) net gain on the disposition of assets reflects a $3.3 million pre-tax gain on the sale of the economic interests in the leases at our Greenville, South Carolina to a related party and a $0.4 million estimated pre-tax gain on the sale of radio station KNTS-AM and KLFE-FM in Seattle, Washington that was offset by a $3.3 million estimated pre-tax loss on the pending sale of radio station KSAC-FM in Sacramento, California and $0.1 million of net losses from various fixed asset disposals; and
A $0.3 million ($0.2 million, net of tax, or $0.01 per share) non-cash compensation charge related to the expense of stock options.
Included in the results for the nine months ended September 30, 2022 are:
A $11.7 million ($8.6 million, net of tax, or $0.32 per share) impairment charge to the value of broadcast licenses in Boston, Chicago, Columbus, Dallas, Greenville, Honolulu, Little Rock, Orlando, Philadelphia, Portland, Sacramento and San Francisco;
A $8.5 million ($6.3 million, net of tax, or $0.23 per diluted share) net gain on the disposition of assets related primarily to the $6.5 million pre-tax gain on the sale of land used in the company’s Denver, Colorado broadcast operations, the $1.8 million pre-tax gain on sale of land used in the company’s Phoenix, Arizona broadcast operations, and $0.5 million pre-tax gain on the sale of the company’s radio stations in Louisville, Kentucky offset by various fixed asset disposals;
A $4.8 million ($3.5 million, net of tax, or $0.13 per share) legal settlement expense;
A $0.1 million ($0.1 million, net of tax) goodwill impairment charge;
A $0.2 million ($0.2 million, net of tax, or $0.01 per share) charge for debt modification costs; and
A $0.2 million ($0.2 million, net of tax, or $0.01 per share) non-cash compensation charge related to the expensing of stock options.
Per share numbers are calculated based on 27,216,787 diluted weighted average shares for the nine months ended September 30, 2023, and 27,202,983 diluted weighted average shares for the nine months ended September 30, 2022.
Balance Sheet
As of September 30, 2023, the company had $159.4 million outstanding on the 7.125% senior secured notes due 2028 (“2028 Notes”) and $20.5 million outstanding on the ABL facility.
Acquisitions and Divestitures
The following transactions were completed since July 1, 2023:
On November 6, 2023 the company sold radio stations WGTK-FM, WRTH-FM and WLTE-FM in Greenville, South Carolina for $6.8 million.
On July 21, 2023 the company sold radio station KNTS-AM in Seattle, Washington for $0.2 million.
On July 13, 2023 the company sold radio station KLFE-AM in Seattle, Washington for $0.5 million. Radio station KLFE-AM was being programmed under a Time Brokerage Agreement (“TBA”) as of August 1, 2022.
Pending transactions:
On October 17, 2023 the company entered into an agreement to sell land in Sarasota, Florida for $9.5 million. The closing is conditional upon getting the property rezoned, and the company expects to close the sale in late 2024.
On September 29, 2023 the company entered into an agreement to sell Salem Church Products for $30.0 million. At closing the company will receive $22.5 million in cash and a promissory note of $7.5 million. The principal shall be due and payable in three installments in the amount of $2.5 million starting the one-year anniversary of the closing date in 2024 through 2026. When the transaction closes, the parties will also enter into a $10.0 million multi-year agreement for the company to advertise Gloo platform’s products and services across its radio and digital platform. The company expects to close the sale in the fourth quarter of this year.
On September 1, 2023 the company entered into an agreement to sell radio station WTWD-AM and an translator in Tampa, Florida for $0.7 million subject to approval of the Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”). The company expects to close the sale in the fourth quarter of this year.
On June 29, 2023 the company entered into an agreement to sell radio station KSAC-FM in Sacramento, California for $1.0 million subject to approval of the FCC. Radio station KSAC-FM started being programmed under a TBA on August 1, 2023. The company expects to close the sale in the fourth quarter of this year.
Conference Call Information
The company will host a teleconference to discuss its results on November 13, 2023 at 4:00 p.m. Central Time. To access the teleconference, please dial (888) 770-7291, and then ask to be joined into the Salem Media Group Third Quarter 2023 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 November 27, 2023 and can be heard by dialing (800) 770-2030, passcode 2413416 or on the investor relations portion of the company’s website, located at investor.salemmedia.com.
Follow us on Twitter @SalemMediaGrp.
Fourth Quarter 2023 Outlook
For the fourth quarter of 2023, the company is projecting total revenue to decline between 6% and 8% from the fourth quarter 2022 total revenue of $68.8 million. This guidance assumes the closing of the pending sale of Salem Church Products in the fourth quarter. Excluding the impact of the 2022 political revenue and the financial results from the pending asset sale, the company would project total revenue to decline between 2% and 4%. The company is also projecting operating expenses before gains or losses on the sale or disposal of assets, stock-based compensation expense, legal settlement, changes in the estimated fair value of contingent earn-out consideration, impairments, depreciation expense and amortization expense (“Recurring Operating Expenses”) to be between flat and a decrease 3% compared to the fourth quarter of 2022 Recurring Operating Expenses of $61.6 million. Excluding the impact of the pending asset sale, expenses are projected to be between an increase of 1% and a decrease of 2%.
A reconciliation of Recurring Operating Expenses (a non-GAAP measure) 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.
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 the company to close and integrate announced transactions, market acceptance of the company’s radio station formats, competition from new technologies, inflation and other adverse economic conditions, and other risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in the company’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. The company 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 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 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 debt modification costs, 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. SOI, Digital Media Operating Income, Publishing Operating 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 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 Loss, EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are 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 operating 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 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 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. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231106203825/en/ Evan D. Masyr Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (805) 384-4512 evan@salemmedia.com Source: Salem Media Group, Inc. Released November 13, 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, CFA, Research Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
Q3 results below expectations. The company reported Q3 revenue of $63.5 million, slightly below our forecast of $64.7 million. Adj. EBITDA was $2.5 million, 42% below our forecast of $4.3 million, primarily due to elevated expenses.
Key asset sale agreements. In the last month, the company sold 3 stations in Greenville, SC, for $6.8 million. Moreover, the sale of the Salem Church Products business ($30 million) is expected to close in Q4, as well as several other asset sales.
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*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision.
IRVING, Texas–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Salem Media Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: SALM) announced today that it plans to report its third quarter 2023 financial results after the market closes on November 13, 2023.
The company also plans to host a teleconference to discuss its results on November 13, 2023, at 4:00 PM Central Time. To access the teleconference, please dial (888) 770-7291, and then ask to be joined to the Salem Media Group Third Quarter 2023 call or listen to the webcast.
A replay of the teleconference will be available through November 27, 2023, and can be heard by dialing (800) 770-2030 – replay pin number 2413416, or on the investor relations portion of the company’s website, located at investor.salemmedia.com.
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.
IRVING, Texas–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Salem Media Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: SALM) announced today a new partnership between the Salem Podcast Network and Just The News to place the podcasts of John Solomon, Victor Davis Hanson, and Bauer and Rose on the SPN Platform. The agreement will allow Salem to market and sell the podcasts to its array of advertisers and provide additional promotional support.
The Salem Podcast Network has grown to become the 11th largest network on the Triton Digital national rankings, featuring such programs as Charlie Kirk, Dinesh D’Souza, and Trish Regan. “John Solomon and his team are a perfect fit for Salem and will provide an additional layer of news credibility to the stories he covers,” said Salem Senior VP Phil Boyce. “When you add Victor Davis Hanson’s podcasts, and those of Bauer and Rose, it makes the partnership complete.”
Solomon currently hosts seven podcasts a week dealing with many of the breaking news stories he covers on his website. In addition, Hanson hosts four podcasts a week, dealing with many of the culture war issues facing the country. Bauer and Rose host one podcast a week, so this adds an additional 12 weekly podcasts to the SPN platform.
“Salem Podcast Network has amassed one of the most formidable audiences and lineups in the industry,” said Solomon. “We are excited to be joining the team and introducing our news and analysis to a whole new audience.”
The Salem Podcast Network is one of Salem’s fastest growing business entities, providing podcasters with advertising, promotional support, and social media infrastructure. Podcasting in general is one of the fastest growing outlets for spoken word content, now reaching 14 million listeners a day, and Salem is a leader in the breaking news categories.
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.
IRVING, Texas–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Salem Media Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: SALM) announced today that the Republican National Committee (RNC) has selected NBC News, Salem Radio Network, the Republican Jewish Coalition, and Rumble as partners for the third Republican presidential primary debate, which will take place at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County on November 8, 2023. As with the first and second debates, Rumble will be the exclusive RNC livestream provider and the RNC’s exclusive online home for the third debate.
“I am eager to announce that the RNC has selected NBC News, Salem Radio Network, the Republican Jewish Coalition, and Rumble as our partners for the third Republican primary debate in Miami. The partners for our third debate will offer our candidates an excellent opportunity to meet the moment and contrast their plans and vision with the failures of the Biden White House.” – RNC Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel
“NBC News has a long history of fostering conversations with the leaders that seek to shape domestic politics and foreign policy. For us, there is no higher responsibility. We look forward to continuing our leading reporting on the 2024 presidential race and spotlighting the issues that matter most to voters as they head to the polls.” – Rebecca Blumenstein, President of NBC News Editorial
“Salem Media Group and the Salem Radio Network are honored to be chosen by the Republican National Committee to be a part of this historic Republican presidential primary debate. Salem is an experienced partner of the RNC, having co-moderated four RNC debates in 2015-2016. We look forward to working closely with NBC News and other selected partners to deliver an event that will shine a light on the candidates and educate voters ahead of the primary.”– David Santrella, Salem Media Group CEO
“We are honored to partner with the RNC in the upcoming GOP Presidential debate. As the horrific events of the last week have unfolded in Israel, the issue of American foreign policy has taken on an even greater role. American strength and American resolve – and our candidates’ vision for America’s role in the world – are more important than ever.” – RJC Chairman, Sen. Norm Coleman
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.
The Partnership Will Provide Daily Expert Weather Forecasts & Extreme Weather Warnings to South Florida Hispanics
IRVING, Texas–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Salem Media Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: SALM) announced today that La Nueva Poderosa 670 AM in Miami and The Weather Channel en Español have entered into a strategic partnership that will enhance weather coverage and climate reporting in Spanish, specifically curated for South Florida.
La Nueva Poderosa, South Florida’s leading Spanish-language, news/talk radio station in Miami, will broadcast the Weather Channel forecasts twice a day with additional reporting and expert interviews during critical weather. The Weather Channel en Español reports will feature its diverse team of award-winning meteorologists and its exceptional behind-the-scenes production/news gathering team. The Weather Channel en Español’s forecasts will also air on Salem Media Group’s Radio Oasis 990 AM in Miami.
The content will also be distributed on La Nueva Poderosa’s website www.lapoderosa.com, Radio Oasis’ website www.oasisradiomiami.com and the stations’ apps and social media platforms.
ABOUT LA NEUVA PODEROSA 670 AM:
La Nueva Poderosa 670 AM, a Salem Media Group station, has been a trusted stalwart of the South Florida community for 25 years, transmitting 50,000 kilowatts over South Florida and the Caribbean. Streaming online 24 hours a day, it also boasts a worldwide audience. For decades, La Nueva Poderosa has been the station that South Florida Hispanics turn to as the hub of information and the latest local, national, and international news and opinions. Its emphasis on listener participation, expert interviews and around-the-clock news updates makes La Neva Poderosa 670 the go-to source for South Florida’s very diverse Hispanic community. La Nueva Poderosa simulcasts on WWFE 670 AM, WRHC 1550 AM, and 103.1 FM.
ABOUT THE WEATHER CHANNEL en ESPANOL:
The Weather Channel en Español network is the first 24/7 Spanish-language free-streaming weather news network in the United States, providing weather coverage and news across the U.S., the Caribbean and Latin America. The network is 100% free and available across over-the-top streaming platforms. Outside of live broadcasts, the new network features original content that adds value to the viewer’s experience with programming that provides interesting and unexpected views into the world of weather, climate change and more.
The Weather Channel en Español is available on The Weather Channel streaming app and Allen Media Group’s Local Now, Sports.TV and theGrio. TWCE is also available on Roku Channel, YouTube TV, Hulu+LIVE TV, Redbox, Verizon Fios, FuboTV, Xumo Play, Plex, FreeCast, Canela.TV, and the Audacy app.
ABOUT SALEM MEDIA GROUP:
Salem Media Group is America’s leading multimedia company specializing in Christian and conservative content, with media properties comprising radio, digital media and book and newsletter publishing. Each day Salem serves a loyal and dedicated audience of listeners and readers numbering in the millions nationally. With its unique programming focus, Salem provides compelling content, fresh commentary and relevant information from some of the most respected figures across the Christian and conservative media landscape. Learn more about Salem Media Group, Inc. at www.salemmedia.com, Facebook and Twitter.
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.
Jacob Mutchler, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
Sells Church Products. On September 29, 2023, the company entered into an agreement to sell the Salem Church Products business to Gloo LLC for $22.5 million in cash and a promissory note in the principal amount of $7.5 million. Additionally, the company announced entering into membership unit purchase agreement with Gloo in exchange for an advertising credit. In our view, the sale is attractive and provides a timely influx of cash that assuages liquidity concerns.
Membership unit purchase agreement. As stipulated in the agreement, the company entered into a put agreement with Gloo Holdings for 833,333 series A membership units, which are redeemable after January 1, 2027 for a minimum price of $10 million. In exchange for the units, the company will provide an advertising credit of $10 million to Gloo Holdings that expires on December 31, 2028.
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.
