Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total operating revenues for Q1 2021 were $1.023 billion, an increase of $60 million or 6% year-over-year [35] - Adjusted operating income was $258 million, reflecting a 12% increase year-over-year [40] - Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $302 million, an increase of $21 million or 8% year-over-year [44] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Retail service revenues increased by $14 million to $685 million, driven by higher average revenue per user and an increase in average postpaid subscribers [35] - Total broadband residential connections grew by 10% in the quarter, with residential broadband revenue increasing by 16% [53][60] - Equipment sales revenues increased by $51 million year-over-year due to an increase in units sold and higher-priced units [36] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Postpaid churn rate was 0.92%, down from 0.95% a year ago, indicating improved customer retention [34] - Total broadband penetration increased by 100 basis points to 38% [52] - The company added 13,000 fiber service addresses to its footprint, continuing its fiber strategy [47] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on network modernization, 5G deployment, and fiber expansion as key strategic imperatives [19][16] - A new master lease agreement with DISH Wireless is expected to contribute to tower revenue growth starting in 2022 [20] - The company aims to leverage existing networks and construct greenfield fiber in opportunistic locations to drive growth [50] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the competitive landscape, noting that promotional activity is expected to remain device-related rather than service-related [23] - The company is closely monitoring supply chain issues, particularly concerning chipsets and network supplies, but has not yet seen significant impacts [74][76] - The management is confident in the fiber strategy, having already fibered up 38% of its wireline service addresses [57] Other Important Information - The company redeemed $800 million in senior notes to lower interest expenses [13] - The company continues to return value to shareholders through dividends and opportunistic share repurchases [17] - The company is actively participating in various government broadband funding programs, including the FCC's A-CAM program [101] Q&A Session Summary Question: Guidance and Subscriber Growth - The company expects to achieve positive postpaid phone adds in future quarters, focusing on growing market share [70] Question: TDS Telecom's Guidance - The company is ramping up construction in fiber deployment, which will incur higher costs but is expected to drive new growth revenue [72] Question: Supply Chain Concerns - Management is monitoring supply chain issues, particularly with chipsets, but currently sees no significant impact on operations [74][76] Question: Involuntary Churn Trends - There has been a slight uptick in involuntary churn, but it remains in line with expectations as the market reopens [81] Question: Fiber Construction Acceleration - The company is focused on scaling up operations and is confident in its fiber strategy, having a significant head start over competitors [85] Question: Infrastructure Bill and Broadband Funding - The company is watching the infrastructure proposal closely and expects the broadband portion to survive the legislative process [99]

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 FORM 10-Q (Mark One) ☒ QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2021 OR ☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the transition period from to Commission file number 001-14157 TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. (Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter) (State or other jurisdiction of in ...

| --- | --- | --- | |-------|-----------------------------|-------| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Fourth Quarter 2020 Results | | Safe Harbor Statement Under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 2 All information set forth in this news release, except historical and factual information, represents forward-looking statements. This includes all statements about the company's plans, beliefs, estimates, and expectations. These statements are based on current estimates, projections, and assumptions ...

Telephone and Data Systems, Inc. (NYSE:TDS) Q4 2020 Earnings Conference Call February 19, 2021 10:00 AM ET Company Participants Jane McCahon - SVP, Corporate Relations & Corporate Secretary Peter Sereda - EVP & CFO Laurent Therivel - President, CEO & Director Douglas Chambers - EVP, CFO & Treasurer James Butman - President & CEO Vicki Villacrez - CFO & SVP, Finance Conference Call Participants Philip Cusick - JPMorgan Chase & Co. Richard Prentiss - Raymond James & Associates Simon Flannery - Morgan Stanley ...

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 FORM 10-K (Mark One) ☒ ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 OR ☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the transition period from to Commission file number 001-14157 TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. (Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter) (State or other jurisdiction of incorpo ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - TDS had $2.2 billion in immediately available funding sources as of September 30, including cash and cash equivalents, available credit facilities, and undrawn term loans [13] - Total operating revenues for Q3 were $1.027 billion, a slight decrease year-over-year, while retail service revenues increased by $11 million to $674 million [42] - Adjusted operating income was $232 million, an increase of $24 million or 12% year-over-year [50] - Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $282 million, a $26 million or 10% increase year-over-year [54] - The average revenue per user (ARPU) was $47.10 for Q3, up $0.94 or approximately 2% year-over-year [45] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. Cellular reported strong subscriber growth, with connected device gross additions increasing by 27,000 year-over-year [37] - Postpaid handset churn was 0.88%, down from 1.09% a year ago, indicating improved customer retention [40] - TDS Telecom grew revenue by 7% and adjusted EBITDA by 8% in Q3, driven by broadband initiatives and the Continuum Cable acquisition [58][70] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Store traffic declined by an average of 25% year-over-year due to COVID-19 impacts [38] - The company reported a 70% retention rate for customers who participated in the FCC's Keep Americans Connected Pledge [24] - Broadband residential connections grew 8% in TDS Telecom's wireline segment, with 12% of wireline customers taking up to one gig broadband speeds [71] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on maintaining financial flexibility and has a strategy to invest in growth opportunities identified by both businesses [12][16] - U.S. Cellular is enhancing its brand with a new logo and plans to continue evolving its marketing strategies [18] - The company is committed to expanding its fiber deployment strategy and enhancing customer satisfaction in existing markets [59][67] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to grow service revenues and EBITDA over the long term, citing strong assets and customer engagement [100][104] - The pandemic has highlighted the importance of connectivity, and the company aims to be a critical part of new workplace trends [62] - Management is optimistic about the upcoming iPhone launch and its potential to drive customer traffic during the holiday season [21] Other Important Information - U.S. Cellular has completed an extended-range 5G millimeter wave data session, achieving speeds of up to 1.8 gigabits per second [25] - The company is actively working on organizational restructuring to promote speed and agility in decision-making [28] - TDS Telecom is assessing customer feedback on its new cloud TV product, TDS TV+, and plans to roll it out further [64] Q&A Session Summary Question: How should the company think about financing or monetizing the tower business? - Management emphasized the value of owning tower assets for operational flexibility and plans to continue focusing on maximizing revenue from these assets [92][96] Question: Does U.S. Cellular view itself as a growth business in a competitive wireless world? - Management expressed strong conviction in the growth potential of U.S. Cellular, citing opportunities in enterprise and government sectors as well as prepaid customer management [100][104] Question: Can you discuss stock buybacks and capital allocation? - Management explained the balance between stock buybacks and investing in growth initiatives, noting that they had previously bought back shares at low prices but are currently focusing on fiber investments [106][109] Question: How does the company compare its iPhone offer this year to last year? - Management highlighted a more customer-friendly offer this year without unnecessary requirements, which has resonated well in the market [114] Question: What are the company's plans for 5G and its opportunities? - Management outlined plans for aggressive 5G rollout and emphasized the importance of managing expenses while exploring new use cases for 5G technology [128][130]

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 FORM 10-Q (Mark One) ☒ QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2020 OR ☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the transition period from to Commission file number 001-14157 TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. (Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter) (State or other jurisdiction o ...

Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations [Executive Overview](index=3&type=section&id=Executive%20Overview) The company operates as a diversified telecommunications provider through its U.S. Cellular and TDS Telecom subsidiaries, focusing on 5G and fiber network investments - TDS operates through two main subsidiaries: **U.S. Cellular (82%-owned)** for wireless services and **TDS Telecom (wholly-owned)** for wireline and cable services, serving approximately **6 million connections** nationwide[10](index=10&type=chunk) - The company's strategy involves significant capital reinvestment into its businesses to enhance competitive positioning and financial performance, while also providing shareholder returns via dividends[13](index=13&type=chunk) - Key strategic initiatives include U.S. Cellular's **5G service launch** and 4G LTE network modernization, and TDS Telecom's focus on **fiber deployment** in new and existing markets[14](index=14&type=chunk) - The company acknowledges that the **COVID-19 pandemic is expected to negatively impact** its operations, with the severity and duration of the impact remaining uncertain[11](index=11&type=chunk) [Results of Operations – TDS Consolidated](index=6&type=section&id=Results%20of%20Operations%20%E2%80%93%20TDS%20Consolidated) Consolidated operating revenues remained flat while net income attributable to shareholders grew 46%, primarily due to a lower effective tax rate from the CARES Act TDS Consolidated Financial Highlights (Six Months Ended June 30) | Financial Metric | 2020 (in millions) | 2019 (in millions) | YoY Change | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Total operating revenues | $2,524 | $2,518 | 0% | | Total operating income | $151 | $142 | +6% | | Net income | $161 | $109 | +47% | | Net income attributable to TDS shareholders | $135 | $92 | +46% | | Adjusted EBITDA (Non-GAAP) | $726 | $701 | +4% | | Capital expenditures | $539 | $411 | +31% | - The effective tax rate for the first six months of 2020 was **6.9%**, a sharp decrease from 31.3% in the same period of 2019, primarily due to tax benefits from the **CARES Act**[19](index=19&type=chunk)[20](index=20&type=chunk) - Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities, primarily from the LA Partnership, contributed **$90 million** to pre-tax income in the first half of 2020, a **5% increase** from $85 million in the prior year[18](index=18&type=chunk) [U.S. Cellular Operations](index=9&type=section&id=U.S.%20Cellular%20Operations) U.S. Cellular's net income grew 56% despite flat revenues, driven by tax benefits, while postpaid churn improved due to reduced customer switching during the pandemic - COVID-19 impacts included reduced customer switching activity, leading to **lower gross additions and churn**, while participation in the FCC Keep Americans Connected Pledge also reduced non-pay defections[29](index=29&type=chunk)[30](index=30&type=chunk) U.S. Cellular Postpaid Activity (YTD 2020 vs YTD 2019) | Metric | YTD 2020 | YTD 2019 | Change | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Total Gross Additions | 261,000 | 273,000 | -4% | | Total Net Additions (Losses) | (14,000) | (58,000) | +76% | | Total Churn | 1.05% | 1.24% | -19 bps | U.S. Cellular Financial Highlights (Six Months Ended June 30) | Financial Metric | 2020 (in millions) | 2019 (in millions) | YoY Change | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Total operating revenues | $1,937 | $1,939 | 0% | | Operating income | $104 | $95 | +9% | | Net income | $141 | $90 | +56% | | Adjusted EBITDA (Non-GAAP) | $560 | $537 | +4% | | Capital expenditures | $405 | $297 | +36% | - Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased for the six months ended June 30, 2020, primarily due to **lower bad debts expense**, advertising, and employee-related expenses[53](index=53&type=chunk) [TDS Telecom Operations](index=17&type=section&id=TDS%20Telecom%20Operations) TDS Telecom's revenues grew 4% driven by the Continuum acquisition and broadband growth, but operating income declined 10% due to higher operating expenses TDS Telecom Financial Highlights (Six Months Ended June 30) | Financial Metric | 2020 (in millions) | 2019 (in millions) | YoY Change | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Total operating revenues | $481 | $464 | +4% | | Operating income | $59 | $66 | -10% | | Net income | $56 | $56 | 0% | | Adjusted EBITDA (Non-GAAP) | $165 | $165 | 0% | | Capital expenditures | $128 | $112 | +15% | - Revenue growth was primarily driven by the **acquisition of Continuum** (a cable company), along with organic growth in Wireline and Cable broadband services[65](index=65&type=chunk) - Operating expenses increased due to the addition of Continuum, higher plant maintenance, and building expenses, while a gain on asset sale in Q1 2019 also contributed to the unfavorable YoY comparison[66](index=66&type=chunk) - COVID-19 impacts included **reduced churn** and a temporary reduction in service revenues due to participation in the FCC Keep Americans Connected Pledge[59](index=59&type=chunk) [Wireline Operations](index=21&type=section&id=Wireline%20Operations) Wireline operating revenues and income declined due to falling commercial and wholesale revenues, which offset growth in the residential broadband segment Wireline Financial Highlights (Six Months Ended June 30) | Financial Metric | 2020 (in millions) | 2019 (in millions) | YoY Change | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Total operating revenues | $339 | $343 | -1% | | Operating income | $50 | $61 | -18% | | Adjusted EBITDA (Non-GAAP) | $116 | $125 | -7% | - Residential revenues grew **5% YoY to $170 million**, driven by growth in broadband and video connections, but this was offset by a **10% decline in Commercial revenues** and a **3% decline in Wholesale revenues**[80](index=80&type=chunk)[84](index=84&type=chunk)[85](index=85&type=chunk) - Total residential connections grew 2%, with **broadband connections up 6%** and video connections up 9%, while voice connections declined 3%[74](index=74&type=chunk) - Effective January 1, 2020, the company began capitalizing the cost of most modems and installation, which is estimated to be **$14 million** for the full year 2020[88](index=88&type=chunk) [Cable Operations](index=27&type=section&id=Cable%20Operations) Cable operations saw strong growth with a 17% revenue increase and a 90% rise in operating income, primarily driven by the Continuum acquisition Cable Financial Highlights (Six Months Ended June 30) | Financial Metric | 2020 (in millions) | 2019 (in millions) | YoY Change | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Total operating revenues | $142 | $121 | +17% | | Operating income | $9 | $5 | +90% | | Adjusted EBITDA (Non-GAAP) | $49 | $40 | +21% | - The **acquisition of Continuum** was a major driver of growth, contributing **$11 million in revenue** and $6 million in cost of services for the six-month period[101](index=101&type=chunk)[102](index=102&type=chunk) - Total cable connections grew **12%**, boosted by the Continuum acquisition which added 15,800 broadband, 9,400 video, and 5,800 voice connections[94](index=94&type=chunk) [Liquidity and Capital Resources](index=30&type=section&id=Liquidity%20and%20Capital%20Resources) The company maintained strong liquidity with $565 million in cash and new credit facilities, supporting a 31% increase in capital expenditures for network investment - Consolidated Cash and cash equivalents increased to **$565 million** at June 30, 2020, from $465 million at December 31, 2019[111](index=111&type=chunk) - In March 2020, TDS and U.S. Cellular secured new revolving credit agreements of **$400 million** and **$300 million**, respectively, with no outstanding borrowings as of June 30, 2020[112](index=112&type=chunk) - U.S. Cellular was the winning bidder for **237 wireless spectrum licenses** in Auction 103 for **$146 million**, with payment completed in April 2020[120](index=120&type=chunk) Consolidated Cash Flow Summary (Six Months Ended June 30) | Cash Flow Activity | 2020 (in millions) | 2019 (in millions) | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Net cash provided by operating activities | $806 | $592 | | Net cash used in investing activities | ($769) | ($616) | | Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities | $75 | ($62) | | Net increase (decrease) in cash | $112 | ($86) | [Supplemental Information Relating to Non-GAAP Financial Measures](index=36&type=section&id=Supplemental%20Information%20Relating%20to%20Non-GAAP%20Financial%20Measures) This section defines and reconciles non-GAAP metrics like EBITDA and Free Cash Flow to their GAAP counterparts to evaluate business performance and liquidity - The company uses non-GAAP measures like **Adjusted EBITDA** and **Adjusted OIBDA** to evaluate operating results, believing it provides useful information to investors on underlying business trends[139](index=139&type=chunk) TDS Consolidated Non-GAAP Reconciliation (Six Months Ended June 30, 2020) | Metric (in millions) | Amount | | :--- | :--- | | Net income (GAAP) | $161 | | Add: Income tax expense | $12 | | Add: Interest expense | $75 | | Add: Depreciation, amortization and accretion | $470 | | **EBITDA (Non-GAAP)** | **$718** | | Add: (Gain) loss on asset disposals, net | $8 | | **Adjusted EBITDA (Non-GAAP)** | **$726** | | Deduct: Equity in earnings & Interest/dividend income | ($98) | | **Adjusted OIBDA (Non-GAAP)** | **$629** | Free Cash Flow (Six Months Ended June 30) | Metric (in millions) | 2020 | 2019 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Cash flows from operating activities (GAAP) | $806 | $592 | | Less: Cash paid for additions to property, plant and equipment | $610 | $393 | | **Free cash flow (Non-GAAP)** | **$196** | **$199** | [Regulatory Matters](index=42&type=section&id=Regulatory%20Matters) Key regulatory developments include the FCC's proposed $9 billion '5G Fund' for rural deployment and U.S. Cellular's participation in spectrum auctions - The FCC proposed a **$9 billion '5G Fund'** to support rural deployment, which may replace legacy support from the Federal USF that U.S. Cellular currently receives[152](index=152&type=chunk)[153](index=153&type=chunk) - U.S. Cellular was the winning bidder for **237 wireless spectrum licenses** in Auction 103 for **$146 million** and has qualified to bid in Auction 105 (3.5 GHz band)[156](index=156&type=chunk)[157](index=157&type=chunk) - U.S. Cellular filed an application to participate in the **Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (Auction 904)**, a reverse auction to fund high-speed fixed broadband service in rural areas[158](index=158&type=chunk) [Risk Factors](index=46&type=section&id=Risk%20Factors) The primary updated risk factor is the uncertain and potentially material adverse impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the company's business and operations - The primary new risk factor disclosed is the uncertain and potentially material adverse effect of the **COVID-19 pandemic** on the company's business[163](index=163&type=chunk)[164](index=164&type=chunk) - Potential negative impacts from COVID-19 include disruptions to business activities, **supply chain issues**, and economic downturns affecting customer attraction and retention[164](index=164&type=chunk) Financial Statements (Unaudited) [Consolidated Statement of Operations](index=47&type=section&id=Consolidated%20Statement%20of%20Operations) Net income attributable to shareholders increased significantly to $135 million on flat operating revenues of $2.524 billion for the six-month period Consolidated Statement of Operations Highlights (Six Months Ended June 30) | Line Item (in millions, except per share) | 2020 | 2019 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Total operating revenues | $2,524 | $2,518 | | Operating income | $151 | $142 | | Income before income taxes | $173 | $159 | | Net income | $161 | $109 | | Net income attributable to TDS shareholders | $135 | $92 | | Diluted earnings per share | $1.15 | $0.78 | [Consolidated Balance Sheet](index=51&type=section&id=Consolidated%20Balance%20Sheet) Total assets grew to $11.16 billion as of June 30, 2020, driven by increases in cash, licenses, and property, plant, and equipment Consolidated Balance Sheet Highlights | Account (in millions) | June 30, 2020 | Dec 31, 2019 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | **Assets** | | | | Cash and cash equivalents | $565 | $465 | | Total current assets | $2,086 | $1,921 | | Property, plant and equipment, net | $3,615 | $3,527 | | Total assets | $11,161 | $10,781 | | **Liabilities & Equity** | | | | Total current liabilities | $882 | $962 | | Long-term debt, net | $2,487 | $2,316 | | Total liabilities | $5,658 | $5,377 | | Total TDS shareholders' equity | $4,738 | $4,653 | | Total liabilities and equity | $11,161 | $10,781 | [Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows](index=49&type=section&id=Consolidated%20Statement%20of%20Cash%20Flows) Cash from operations increased significantly to $806 million, funding $769 million in investing activities and resulting in a $112 million net cash increase Consolidated Cash Flow Summary (Six Months Ended June 30) | Cash Flow Activity (in millions) | 2020 | 2019 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Net cash provided by operating activities | $806 | $592 | | Net cash used in investing activities | ($769) | ($616) | | Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities | $75 | ($62) | | Net increase (decrease) in cash | $112 | ($86) | [Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements](index=58&type=section&id=Notes%20to%20Consolidated%20Financial%20Statements) The notes detail key accounting policies, the significant positive impact of the CARES Act on the tax rate, and segment-specific financial information - TDS adopted **ASC 326** for credit losses on January 1, 2020, using a modified retrospective method, which did not have a material impact on retained earnings[198](index=198&type=chunk) - The effective tax rate for the first six months of 2020 was **6.9%** (down from 31.3% in 2019) primarily due to benefits from the **CARES Act**, which allows for the carryback of net operating losses[221](index=221&type=chunk)[222](index=222&type=chunk) - U.S. Cellular's net equipment installment plan receivables were **$866 million** as of June 30, 2020, down from $924 million at year-end 2019[219](index=219&type=chunk) - In April 2020, U.S. Cellular borrowed **$125 million** under its receivables securitization agreement, which is collateralized by its equipment installment plan receivables[230](index=230&type=chunk) Other Information [Legal Proceedings](index=76&type=section&id=Legal%20Proceedings) The company is involved in ongoing civil actions under the Federal False Claims Act related to its participation in several FCC spectrum auctions - TDS and U.S. Cellular are defendants in civil actions under the **Federal False Claims Act** concerning participation in FCC spectrum auctions (58, 66, 73, and 97)[255](index=255&type=chunk) - The Department of Justice investigated the claims but **declined to intervene** in late 2019; the private plaintiffs are proceeding with the case[255](index=255&type=chunk) [Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds](index=77&type=section&id=Unregistered%20Sales%20of%20Equity%20Securities%20and%20Use%20of%20Proceeds) During the second quarter, TDS repurchased over 500,000 of its Common Shares for $7.8 million, with $185 million remaining under its buyback program TDS Common Share Repurchases (Q2 2020) | Period | Total Shares Purchased | Average Price Paid per Share | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | April 1 - 30, 2020 | 501,212 | $15.62 | | May 1 - 31, 2020 | — | — | | June 1 - 30, 2020 | — | — | | **Total for Quarter** | **501,212** | **$15.62** | - As of June 30, 2020, the maximum dollar value of shares that may yet be repurchased under the existing plan was **$185 million**[260](index=260&type=chunk)

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 FORM 10-Q (Mark One) ☒ QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2020 OR ☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the transition period from to Commission file number 001-14157 TELEPHONE AND DATA SYSTEMS, INC. (Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter) Delaware 36-2669023 (State or othe ...

Company Overview - TDS provides high-quality communications services with 4.9 million wireless connections and 1.2 million wireline and cable connections as of December 31, 2019[12]. - U.S. Cellular operates in 20 states, serving a total population of 31 million, with a strategy focused on high-quality network and customer service[16]. - The company had approximately 9,400 employees as of December 31, 2019, with less than 1% represented by labor organizations[105]. Customer Base and Services - U.S. Cellular's customer base includes postpaid and prepaid customers, with a focus on retail consumers, government entities, and business customers[17]. - U.S. Cellular offers a variety of national plans with no long-distance or roaming charges, enhancing customer experience[18]. - Approximately 78% of Wireline residential customers have at least two services, promoting cross-selling within the customer base[73]. - Approximately 54% of residential cable customers subscribe to a bundle of services, promoting cross-selling within the customer base[88]. Network and Technology - VoLTE technology is now available to nearly 70% of U.S. Cellular's subscribers, with further deployments expected in 2020 and 2021[44]. - U.S. Cellular expects to launch commercial 5G services in selected markets in 2020, enhancing network speeds for customers using its 4G LTE network due to modernization efforts[45]. - TDS Telecom is investing in fiber to provide broadband speeds of up to 1 Gbps, targeting attractive growing markets to increase its footprint[59]. - TDS Telecom is developing a next-generation video platform, TDS TV+, to enhance customer experience with new features[76]. - TDS Telecom operates a highly reliable network transitioning to an IP-based broadband network to integrate broadband, video, and voice services[78]. - Wireline is deploying fiber-to-the-home technology to provide internet speeds of up to 1 Gbps, with additional speeds of 10 to 100 Mbps in non-fiber markets[79]. Competition and Market Challenges - U.S. Cellular faces competition from major carriers like Verizon and AT&T, which have greater financial resources[38]. - The wireless segment faces intense competition, particularly in service plan pricing and network quality, which may impact TDS's revenues and costs[110]. - TDS faces significant competition from larger telecommunications companies that have greater financial resources and extensive coverage areas, particularly in the deployment of 5G technology[111]. - The competitive landscape includes two to five wireless service providers in each market, as well as cable companies and resellers, many of which have superior resources compared to TDS[112]. - TDS' wireline business competes with various providers, including cable companies and VoIP providers, and is expected to continue facing challenges from wireless and broadband substitution[113]. Financial Performance and Strategy - TDS' current forecast indicates that it will not achieve a return on capital that exceeds its cost of capital in the foreseeable future, affecting its financial health[116]. - TDS has incurred negative free cash flow in the past and may require substantial additional capital for operations, acquisitions, and debt service, which could limit its financial flexibility[124]. - The company has a significant amount of indebtedness, which may adversely affect its financial performance and limit its ability to obtain additional financing[125]. - TDS' ability to execute its business strategies effectively is critical, as failure to do so could have adverse effects on its financial condition and operational results[116]. - TDS is exploring opportunities for further acquisitions to increase its scale, but there is no assurance that such opportunities will be available or successful[120]. Regulatory and Compliance Issues - Changes in roaming practices and FCC regulations may lead to a decline in TDS' roaming revenues, impacting its ability to service customers in areas without its own network[127]. - Compliance with regulatory requirements is critical, and any failure to do so could adversely impact TDS' financial condition and operational capabilities[136]. - TDS may participate in FCC auctions for additional spectrum, but there is no guarantee of success due to competitive bidding and regulatory constraints[135]. Investments and Capital Management - TDS paid quarterly dividends per outstanding share of $0.165 in 2019, an increase from $0.160 in 2018 and $0.155 in 2017, with a further increase to $0.170 in Q1 2020[196]. - TDS has a $250 million stock repurchase program authorized by the Board of Directors, with no expiration date[198]. - The maximum dollar value of shares that may yet be purchased under the stock repurchase program was $199 million as of December 31, 2019[200]. Risks and Uncertainties - TDS faces risks related to its level of indebtedness and potential breaches of financial covenants, which could adversely affect its business and financial condition[126]. - The company is experiencing challenges in accurately forecasting customer demand, which could lead to inventory issues[163]. - TDS' supply chain management is vulnerable to disruptions from various external factors, potentially affecting revenues and costs[163]. - TDS experiences regular cyber-attacks, which could lead to significant operational disruptions and financial losses if security breaches occur[171]. - Legal proceedings can be complex and costly, potentially diverting management's attention and adversely affecting TDS' operations[173]. Future Outlook - TDS' investments in new technologies may not yield expected benefits, impacting its financial results[151]. - The company is transitioning to 5G technology, requiring substantial investments to remain competitive in the industry[147]. - The telecommunications industry is experiencing significant changes, and TDS' concentration in this sector may increase risks related to revenue growth and financial stability[140].