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AMC Networks(AMCX) - 2025 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript

2025-08-08 13:30

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a second quarter consolidated net revenue decline of 4% year over year to $600 million, with foreign exchange rates providing a 60 basis point tailwind to revenue growth [20][21] - Consolidated AOI decreased by 28% to $109 million, with an 18% margin, and adjusted EPS was $0.69 per share [20][21] - Free cash flow for the second quarter totaled $96 million, leading to an increased full-year free cash flow outlook of approximately $250 million [6][20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Domestic operations revenue decreased by 2% to $527 million, with subscription revenue down 1% due to a 12% decline in affiliate revenue, partially offset by a 12% growth in streaming revenue [21] - Streaming subscribers grew by 2% year over year, ending the quarter with 10.4 million subscribers [21] - Content licensing revenue for the quarter was $84 million, reflecting the timing and availability of deliveries [23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - International revenues for the second quarter were $76 million, with subscription revenue excluding foreign exchange decreasing by 9% due to a non-renewal with Movistar in Spain [25] - Advertising revenue in domestic operations decreased by 18% year over year due to linear rating declines and lower marketplace pricing [22] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company continues to focus on programming, partnerships, and profitability, aiming to build and grow fan communities around high-quality content [6][7] - The strategy includes expanding targeted streaming services and leveraging fan engagement to drive viewership and subscriptions [8][10] - The company is adapting its success in FAST channels internationally, with plans to launch additional channels in various markets [11][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the ability to drive free cash flow and maintain a strong balance sheet while navigating a challenging media landscape [30][31] - The company anticipates that the third quarter will represent the lowest licensing revenue quarter for the year, with a recovery expected in the fourth quarter [23][29] - Management highlighted the importance of cash tax savings and programming efficiencies in improving free cash flow guidance [36][38] Other Important Information - The company has reduced gross debt by over $400 million this year, including the retirement of $699 million of unsecured senior notes at a significant discount [26][27] - The company is exploring the use of generative AI in marketing and programming development through a partnership with Runway [16][17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you elaborate on the source of the free cash flow upside? - Management indicated that the largest factor for the increase in free cash flow guidance is cash tax savings, with modest savings across programming also contributing [36][38] Question: How do you view the trends in advertising and affiliate revenue? - Management noted strong performance in content licensing, with some weakness in advertising, but maintained confidence in affiliate relationships [39][41] Question: Can you provide details on the Runway partnership? - The partnership with Runway is aimed at facilitating creative work, allowing teams to visualize ideas and enhance production efficiency without integrating IP [43][45] Question: What are the expectations for subscription revenue growth? - Management expressed optimism about sustainable subscription revenue growth, particularly in streaming, with recent programming resonating well with audiences [51][52] Question: How is the company thinking about capital allocation and potential splits of assets? - Management emphasized a consistent capital allocation philosophy focused on content investment and debt reduction, while recognizing the value of the company's diverse assets [77][82]