AS Ekspress Grupp: Consolidated unaudited interim report for Q1 of 2025

Core Viewpoint - AS Ekspress Grupp experienced a 5% year-over-year increase in revenue for Q1 2025, reaching EUR 17.0 million, but faced a significant decline in EBITDA and net profit due to a challenging economic environment in the Baltic States [1][2][5]. Revenue - The revenue for Q1 2025 was EUR 17.0 million, up 5% from EUR 16.2 million in Q1 2024, primarily driven by digital subscription revenue and increased volumes in ticket platforms and digital outdoor screens [2][7]. - Digital revenue accounted for 84% of total revenue, maintaining the same percentage as the previous year, with a 5% increase in digital revenue [8][17]. - Ticket sales platforms saw a 10% increase in revenue, while outdoor screen revenue grew by 19% due to network expansion and higher average prices [4][17]. Profitability - EBITDA for Q1 2025 was EUR 0.2 million, a decrease of 45% from EUR 0.4 million in Q1 2024, resulting in an EBITDA margin of 1.4% [10][11]. - The net loss for Q1 2025 was EUR 1.6 million, a 31% increase compared to EUR 1.2 million in the same period last year, influenced by higher depreciation costs and a decline in advertising revenue [5][11]. Expenses - Operating expenses rose to EUR 16.9 million in Q1 2025, a 6% increase from EUR 15.9 million in Q1 2024, with labor costs being the largest contributor, increasing by 3% [9][10]. Cash Position - As of March 31, 2025, the Group had EUR 8.4 million in cash, slightly down from EUR 8.8 million a year earlier, and a net debt of EUR 20.0 million, up from EUR 16.8 million [6][12]. - The Management Board proposed a dividend of 6 euro cents per share, totaling EUR 1.86 million, to be voted on at the upcoming shareholders' meeting [16]. Strategic Goals - The Group aims to increase its digital subscriptions to at least 340,000 by 2026, having added over 25,000 new digital subscriptions in the past year, marking a 12% increase [3].