SSP Q3 Deep Dive: Sports and Streaming Drive Strategic Shift Amid Advertising Headwinds

Core Insights - E.W. Scripps met Wall Street's revenue expectations in Q3 CY2025, reporting sales of $525.9 million, an 18.6% year-on-year decline, and a GAAP loss of $0.55 per share, which was 72.1% below analysts' consensus estimates [1][6] Financial Performance - Revenue: $525.9 million vs analyst estimates of $523.9 million (18.6% year-on-year decline, in line) [6] - EPS (GAAP): -$0.55 vs analyst expectations of -$0.32 (72.1% miss) [6] - Adjusted EBITDA: $80.43 million vs analyst estimates of $68.75 million (15.3% margin, 17% beat) [6] - Operating Margin: 7.2%, down from 18.8% in the same quarter last year [6] - Market Capitalization: $224.5 million [6] Strategic Initiatives - The company highlighted the success of its Scripps Sports strategy and expansion into connected TV (CTV) advertising, with a focus on women's sports partnerships contributing to performance [3][4] - Management expects continued revenue growth from sports broadcasting deals and CTV expansion while maintaining a disciplined approach to expenses [4] - The company is preparing for significant political advertising tailwinds in 2026 and ongoing margin improvements through operational efficiencies and technology investments [4] Advertising and Revenue Growth - The intensified focus on women's sports, including partnerships with the WNBA and National Women's Soccer League, led to strong advertising demand and increased core revenue [7] - Scripps' expansion into Connected TV generated significant growth, with streaming now accounting for 20% of Scripps Networks viewing, and management projecting double-digit CTV revenue growth [7] Operational Efficiency - Recent station swaps and sales generated $123 million in cash, intended for debt reduction and balance sheet improvement [7] - Operational efficiency initiatives, including reductions in employee-related costs and restructuring, contributed to margin stabilization despite advertising softness [7] Technology and Innovation - Early investments in automation and artificial intelligence are beginning to deliver value, helping newsroom and sales teams operate more efficiently [8]