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TotalEnergies to Report Q4 Earnings: What to Expect This Season?
ZACKS· 2026-02-09 18:25
Core Viewpoint - TotalEnergies SE (TTE) is expected to report its fourth-quarter 2025 results on February 11, with a prior negative earnings surprise of 2.21% in the last quarter [1] Group 1: Factors Impacting Q4 Earnings - Fourth-quarter hydrocarbon production is anticipated to remain strong, aided by the restart of Ichthys LNG in Australia [2] - The company is expected to have divested additional non-core assets, positively impacting earnings, while strategic acquisitions are also projected to contribute to performance [3] - Planned turnarounds at Antwerp and SATORP in Saudi Arabia are likely to maintain refinery utilization rates between 80% and 84% during the fourth quarter [4] Group 2: Clean Energy and Demand - TotalEnergies' increasing supply of clean energy and focus on renewable sources are expected to support earnings growth, reflecting a transition towards sustainable energy solutions [5] - Strong demand from data centers, electric vehicle rollouts, decarbonization, and digitalization is likely to benefit fourth-quarter earnings [5] Group 3: Financial Expectations - Hydrocarbon production volumes are expected to improve by 4% year over year, with the Zacks Consensus Estimate for production volume at 2,528.6 thousand barrels of oil equivalent per day, marking a nearly 5% increase year over year [7] - The consensus estimate for earnings is $1.8 per share, while revenues are projected at $36.69 billion, indicating declines of 5.26% and 22.12% from the previous year [8] Group 4: Share Buybacks and Market Position - Ongoing share buybacks, with authorization up to $1.5 billion in the fourth quarter, are expected to positively impact earnings [6] - TotalEnergies currently has an Earnings ESP of -2.41% and a Zacks Rank of 3, indicating challenges in beating earnings expectations [11]
NatWest Group to Buy Evelyn Partners for £2.7B, Targets UK’s Top Private Bank and Wealth Manager
Yahoo Finance· 2026-02-09 14:07
Core Viewpoint - NatWest Group is acquiring Evelyn Partners for GBP 2.7 billion in cash to create the UK's leading private bank and wealth manager, combining their assets under management to reach GBP 127 billion [4][8][5] Financial Performance - Evelyn Partners reported 2025 income of GBP 509 million and EBITDA of GBP 179 million, reflecting a 35% margin, along with net new inflows of GBP 1.6 billion [2][7] - The acquisition is expected to boost NatWest's fee income by approximately 20% before synergies, enhancing non-interest income as a larger part of group revenues [8][7] Strategic Intent - The acquisition aims to accelerate NatWest's strategy by increasing its exposure to wealth management, supported by demographic, regulatory, and technology trends [3][5] - Evelyn brings a regional network of 21 offices, 270 financial planners, and 325 specialist investment managers, along with the direct-to-consumer platform Bestinvest [3][8] Synergies and Cost Management - NatWest anticipates about GBP 100 million in cost synergies, primarily through the elimination of duplication in shared services and technology, with implementation costs estimated at GBP 150 million over three years [6][9] - The integration plan includes technology and platform consolidation, streamlining functions, and optimizing marketing spend [10][9] Capital Impact and Returns - The acquisition is projected to reduce NatWest's CET1 ratio by approximately 130 basis points, driven mainly by goodwill and other intangibles [12][13] - Management expects the deal to be accretive to return on tangible equity in the first year, with returns anticipated to exceed those from share buybacks [13][14] Shareholder Actions - Alongside the acquisition announcement, NatWest is launching a GBP 750 million share buyback while maintaining a dividend payout ratio of around 50% [14][6]
ORIX(IX) - 2026 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2026-02-09 08:32
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net income for the 9-month period was JPY 389.7 billion, an increase of JPY 117.9 billion year-over-year, marking the highest third-quarter cumulative net profit ever [2] - Pre-tax profits reached JPY 567.7 billion, up by JPY 184.3 billion year-over-year, with all three categories of finance, operation, and investments showing profit growth [3] - Shareholder returns were enhanced with an expansion of the share buyback program from JPY 100 billion to JPY 150 billion, with JPY 128.1 billion completed by the end of January [3] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Finance segment profits increased by 8% year-over-year to JPY 145.5 billion, driven by growth in investment income and finance revenues in Australia and Asia [4] - Operation segment profit rose by 17% to JPY 189.5 billion, supported by gains from airport concessions and real estate operations [4][5] - Investment segment profits surged by 100% year-over-year to JPY 261.4 billion, significantly boosted by gains from the sale of Greenko shares and other investments [6][7] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The environment energy segment profit increased by JPY 109.1 billion year-over-year, reaching JPY 122.2 billion, primarily due to gains on the sale of Greenko Energy Holdings [17] - The insurance segment profit rose by 20% year-over-year to JPY 74.1 billion, driven by expansion in investment assets and portfolio securities [18] - The banking and credit segment profit decreased by JPY 2.2 billion year-over-year to JPY 19.9 billion, impacted by rising funding costs and credit losses [19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to drive sustainable growth and improve capital efficiency while maintaining its full-year net income forecast [8] - Organizational reforms were announced to restructure into three business divisions, although the current fiscal year will continue under the existing 10-segment framework [11] - The company is focusing on capital recycling, with JPY 196.6 billion in capital gains and ongoing investments in operations and PE investments [9][10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the domestic economy's growth and the performance of various segments, including automotive and IT [42][43] - There is caution regarding the impact of rising interest rates and potential credit losses, with a focus on maintaining financial soundness [51][54] - The management is committed to evaluating business plans regularly to ensure alignment with capital efficiency and profitability goals [45][72] Other Important Information - The company has made significant investments in AI infrastructure and logistics facilities, indicating a strategic focus on technology and operational efficiency [10] - The impact of inbound tourism on earnings is being monitored, particularly concerning the decline in Chinese passenger numbers [24][25] - The company is actively managing its portfolio to mitigate risks associated with legacy assets and market fluctuations [21][22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Details on ORIX USA and Hilco Global integration - Management confirmed that valuation gains from ORIX Capital Partners were significant and that a 100-day plan for Hilco Global is being executed to enhance collaboration [35][36] Question: Overall progress and performance against the plan - Management highlighted strong performance in investments and operations, with expectations for continued growth despite potential challenges in the fourth quarter [41][44] Question: Clarification on U.S. valuation gains - Management indicated that the strong performance of U.S. investees, particularly in technology, contributed positively to the overall results [46][80] Question: Cost considerations for the fourth quarter - Management acknowledged potential credit costs and emphasized a cautious approach to project evaluations, particularly regarding Erawan [49][52] Question: Changes in employed capital ratio and risk appetite - Management explained that the employed capital ratio was recalibrated for more detailed risk assessment, with no direct impact on risk appetite [58][60] Question: Capital gains and base profit disclosures - Management clarified that capital gains were not incorporated in the same manner as before, focusing instead on base profit growth [66][67] Question: Future plans for profit growth and ROE targets - Management emphasized the importance of capital efficiency and the potential for continued profit growth, with a focus on high-quality investments [71][72]
ORIX(IX) - 2026 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2026-02-09 08:32
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net income for the 9-month period was JPY 389.7 billion, an increase of JPY 117.9 billion year-over-year, marking the highest third-quarter cumulative net profit ever [2][3] - Pre-tax profits reached JPY 567.7 billion, up by JPY 184.3 billion year-over-year, with growth across all three categories: finance, operation, and investments [3][7] - Shareholder returns were enhanced with an expanded share buyback program from JPY 100 billion to JPY 150 billion, with JPY 128.1 billion completed by the end of January [3][4] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Finance segment profits increased by 8% year-over-year to JPY 145.5 billion, driven by growth in investment income and finance revenues in Australia and Asia [4][5] - Operation segment profit rose by 17% to JPY 189.5 billion, supported by gains from airport concessions and real estate operations [4][5] - Investment segment profits surged by 100% year-over-year to JPY 261.4 billion, significantly boosted by gains from the sale of Greenko shares and other investments [6][7] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The environment energy segment profit increased by JPY 109.1 billion year-over-year to JPY 122.2 billion, primarily due to gains on the sale of Greenko Energy Holdings [17] - The insurance segment profit rose by 20% year-over-year to JPY 74.1 billion, driven by expansion in investment assets and portfolio securities [18] - The banking and credit segment profit decreased by JPY 2.2 billion year-over-year to JPY 19.9 billion, impacted by rising funding costs and losses from selling long-term bonds [19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to drive sustainable growth and improve capital efficiency while maintaining its full-year net income forecast [8][9] - Organizational reforms were announced to restructure into three business divisions, although the current fiscal year will continue under the existing 10-segment framework [11] - The company is focusing on capital recycling, with JPY 196.6 billion in capital gains and ongoing investments in operations and PE investments [9][10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the domestic economy's growth and the performance of various sectors, including automotive and IT [42][44] - There is caution regarding the impact of rising interest rates and potential credit losses, with a focus on maintaining financial soundness [19][51] - The management is closely monitoring the situation in China, particularly regarding inbound tourism and its effects on earnings [24][25] Other Important Information - The total assets increased by JPY 1.2594 trillion compared to the end of last year, with significant contributions from the consolidation of Hilco Global [28] - The employed capital ratio was adjusted to 89%, reflecting improved risk management practices [58][60] - The company plans to maintain a payout ratio of 39% of net income per share, with flexibility in shareholder returns [30][72] Q&A Session All Questions and Answers Question: Details about ORIX USA and Hilco Global integration - Management confirmed that valuation profit within the portfolio was significant, and they are executing a 100-day plan for Hilco Global integration [33][35] Question: Overall progress and performance against the plan - Management highlighted strong performance in investments and operations, with expectations for continued growth despite potential challenges in the fourth quarter [40][41] Question: Clarification on U.S. valuation gains - Management indicated that the performance was within expectations, with strong growth in technology-related investees contributing to the results [46][47] Question: Cost considerations for the fourth quarter - Management acknowledged potential credit costs and emphasized a cautious approach to project evaluations, particularly regarding Elawan [49][51] Question: Changes in employed capital ratio and life insurance liabilities - Management explained that the employed capital ratio was recalibrated for better risk assessment, and discussions are ongoing regarding life insurance liabilities [58][62] Question: Capital gains and base profit disclosures - Management clarified that capital gains were not incorporated in the same manner as before, focusing instead on base profit growth [66][67] Question: Future investment strategies and ROE targets - Management emphasized the importance of capital efficiency and the potential for continued profit growth, with a focus on high-quality investments [71][72]
ORIX(IX) - 2026 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2026-02-09 08:30
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net income for the 9-month period was JPY 389.7 billion, an increase of JPY 117.9 billion year-over-year, marking the highest third-quarter cumulative net profit ever [2][3] - Pre-tax profits reached JPY 567.7 billion, up by JPY 184.3 billion year-over-year, with all three categories of finance, operation, and investments showing profit growth [3][6] - Shareholder returns were enhanced with an expanded share buyback program from JPY 100 billion to JPY 150 billion, with JPY 128.1 billion completed by the end of January [3][4] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Finance segment profits increased by 8% year-over-year to JPY 145.5 billion, driven by growth in investment income and finance revenues in Australia and Asia [4][5] - Operation segment profit rose by 17% to JPY 189.5 billion, supported by gains from airport concessions and real estate operations [5][6] - Investment segment profits surged by 100% year-over-year to JPY 261.4 billion, significantly boosted by gains from the sale of Greenko shares and other investments [5][6] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The environment energy segment profit increased by JPY 109.1 billion year-over-year, reaching JPY 122.2 billion, primarily due to gains on the sale of Greenko Energy Holdings [16][17] - The ORIX USA segment showed a profit of JPY 14 billion for the 9-month period, reflecting a positive recovery despite previous credit losses [20][21] - The Asia and Australia segment profit increased by JPY 11.4 billion, a 41% rise year-over-year, driven by financial income from local operations [23] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to drive sustainable growth and improve capital efficiency while maintaining its full-year net income forecast [7][8] - Organizational reforms were announced to restructure into three business divisions, although the current fiscal year will continue under the existing 10-segment framework [10] - The company is focusing on capital recycling, with JPY 196.6 billion in capital gains and ongoing investments in operations and asset valuation businesses [8][9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed caution regarding the impact of declining Chinese passenger numbers on earnings, particularly in the tourism sector [24][25] - The company anticipates a mixed outlook for the next fiscal year, with potential downside risks due to economic uncertainties and rising interest rates [39][43] - There is a focus on maintaining financial soundness while enhancing future profitability, especially in light of rising funding costs [18][31] Other Important Information - Total assets increased by JPY 1.2594 trillion compared to the end of last year, with significant contributions from the consolidation of Hilco Global [29][30] - The company reported a reduction in insurance contract liabilities by JPY 234.2 billion, attributed to a higher discount rate used for measurement [30][51] - The employed capital ratio was adjusted to reflect more detailed risk management, resulting in a decrease from 92% to 89% [49][50] Q&A Session Summary Question: Details on ORIX USA and Hilco Global integration - Management confirmed that valuation profit within the portfolio showed significant growth, and they are executing a 100-day plan for Hilco Global integration [32][34] Question: Progress against the business plan - Management noted strong progress in investments and operational performance, particularly in the divestiture of non-core businesses [37][38] Question: Credit costs and potential losses - Management acknowledged the potential for credit costs and losses but emphasized ongoing monitoring and proactive measures to address risks [41][42] Question: Changes in employed capital ratio and future investments - The employed capital ratio was recalibrated for more precise risk assessment, allowing for flexible investments while maintaining a conservative approach [49][50] Question: Outlook for next fiscal year - Management indicated that while the current fiscal year is performing well, they remain cautious about the next fiscal year due to economic uncertainties [56][58]
AMZN, GOOG, MSFT, META, ORCL Plan $700 Billion in Largely AI-Related Capex in 2026. Where the Cash Comes From
Wolfstreet· 2026-02-08 02:48
Core Viewpoint - Big Tech companies are planning to invest approximately $700 billion in capital expenditures by 2026, primarily focused on AI infrastructure, which includes data centers and related equipment [1][21]. Investment Plans - The five major companies are expected to contribute to 2.1% of current-dollar GDP through these investments [2]. - Other companies are also increasing capital expenditures, indicating a broader economic stimulus as long as this trend continues [3]. Share Buybacks and Funding Sources - Concerns exist that the increased spending may come at the expense of share buybacks, which have already begun to decline [2][7]. - The funding for the $700 billion investment will come from various sources, including reduced share buybacks, new share issuances, and debt issuances [5][9][19]. - Specific companies have already shifted from share buybacks to issuing new shares, such as Oracle, which issued $2.1 billion in new shares in 2025 [5][13]. Financial Performance and Debt - In Q4, share buybacks for the five companies dropped to $12.6 billion, the lowest since Q1 2018, compared to a peak of $149 billion in 2021 [7]. - Companies like Amazon and Meta have significantly reduced their share buybacks to allocate funds for AI investments [6][8]. - Oracle's recent bond offerings have seen high demand, indicating strong investor interest in corporate debt [16][19]. Operating Cash Flow - The operating cash flows for these companies are substantial, with Amazon generating $126 billion and Alphabet $127 billion in 2025, which can help fund the planned investments [20][23]. - Utilizing operating cash flow for investments is seen as a positive contribution to economic growth [23]. Economic Impact - The shift from share buybacks to investments in AI infrastructure is expected to stimulate economic growth, although it may not be well-received by shareholders [21][22]. - The overall investment strategy is viewed as a significant stimulus for the economy, provided that financial markets remain stable [23].
News (NWS) - 2026 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript
2026-02-05 23:02
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenues increased by 6% to $2.4 billion for the quarter, with total segment EBITDA expanding by 9% to $521 million, despite a one-time inventory-related charge at HarperCollins [4][20] - Net income from continuing operations was $242 million, a 21% decrease from the prior year, attributed to the absence of a favorable gain from the sale of PropertyGuru [4][21] - Adjusted EPS for the quarter was $0.40, compared to $0.33 in the prior quarter, with profitability margin rising from 21.4% to 22.1% [4][20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - **Dow Jones**: Revenues rose by 8% to $648 million, with segment EBITDA increasing by 10% to $191 million, achieving a record profit margin of 29.5% [21][24] - **Digital Real Estate Services**: Revenues grew by 8% to $511 million, with segment EBITDA up 11% to $206 million [25][20] - **Book Publishing**: Revenues increased by 6% to $633 million, while segment EBITDA declined by 2% to $99 million due to a one-time write-off [29][20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the U.S. market, Realtor.com saw revenues grow by 10%, driven by premium products and improved lead volume [11][25] - In Australia, REA's revenues grew by 7%, benefiting from double-digit yield growth and improved listing volumes [12][20] - Digital advertising revenue at Dow Jones reached a record level of $87 million, rising by 12% [8][24] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on transforming into a digital-first entity, increasing recurring revenues while reducing dependence on advertising [5][19] - There is a strong emphasis on operational efficiency and margin expansion, with a disciplined approach to capital expenditures [18][19] - The company is exploring AI partnerships to enhance its content offerings and is confident in its ability to monetize proprietary content [6][35] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism for the second half of the fiscal year, citing strong performance in core business segments and a robust balance sheet [4][16] - The evolving impact of AI on the industry was acknowledged, with management confident in the company's unique content and its ability to meet AI demands [35][39] - The company anticipates continued strong revenue growth in B2B and is focused on maximizing shareholder value through share buybacks [19][51] Other Important Information - The company repurchased $172 million in shares during the quarter, significantly higher than the previous year [20][51] - The launch of the California Post was highlighted as a strategic move to enhance the company's media presence [16][30] Q&A Session Summary Question: Market reaction to AI and its implications - Management clarified that AI's impact is often misunderstood, emphasizing the value of proprietary content and the company's strategy to monetize it [33][34] Question: Investment in Dow Jones and CapEx - Management confirmed confidence in Dow Jones and indicated that CapEx for Dow Jones would be modestly down this year, while overall free cash flow is expected to grow [38][41] Question: M&A strategy and areas of interest - Management stated that they are constantly looking for reasonable investment opportunities while also focusing on organic growth and share buybacks [49][50] Question: Simplifying the company structure - Management reiterated their focus on generating long-term value and expressed satisfaction with the progress of Realtor.com compared to competitors like Homes.com [55][56]
Barrick Declares Increased Dividend and Announces New Dividend Policy
Globenewswire· 2026-02-05 10:59
Core Viewpoint - Barrick Mining Corporation has declared a significant increase in its dividend for Q4 2025, alongside a new dividend policy aimed at enhancing shareholder returns [1][3]. Dividend Announcement - The company announced a dividend of $0.42 per share for Q4 2025, marking a 140% increase compared to the third quarter [1]. - The dividend will be paid on March 16, 2026, to shareholders of record as of February 27, 2026 [1]. Share Buyback Program - Barrick repurchased approximately 12.11 million shares during Q4 2025 under its share buyback program initiated in February 2025 [2]. - In total, the company repurchased about 51.90 million shares throughout 2025, representing approximately 3.0% of its issued and outstanding shares, for a total cash outlay of $1.5 billion, including $500 million in Q4 [2]. New Dividend Policy - The new dividend policy targets a total payout of 50% of attributable free cash flow on an annualized basis, consisting of a fixed base quarterly dividend of $0.175 per share and a performance top-up component at year-end based on the attributable free cash flow [3]. - The actual dividend paid may vary from the 50% target depending on cash flow strength, capital needs, and balance sheet considerations [3]. Company Overview - Barrick Mining Corporation is a leading global mining, exploration, and development company with a significant portfolio of gold and copper assets across 17 countries and five continents [4]. - The company is recognized as the largest gold producer in the United States and aims to create long-term value for stakeholders through responsible mining and strong partnerships [4].
Sony Group(SONY) - 2026 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2026-02-05 08:02
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales of continuing operations in FY 2025 Q3 increased by 1% year-on-year to JPY 3,713.7 billion, while operating income rose by 22% to JPY 515 billion, both record highs for the third quarter [3] - Net income increased by 11% to JPY 377.3 billion [3] - Full-year sales forecast was upwardly revised by 3% to JPY 12,300 billion, operating income forecast increased by 8% to JPY 1,540 billion, and net income forecast also increased by 8% to JPY 1,130 billion [3] Business Segment Data and Key Metrics Changes - **G&NS Segment**: FY 2025 Q3 sales decreased by 4% year-on-year, but operating income increased by 19% due to favorable foreign exchange rates and increased sales in network services and first-party software [4] - **Music Segment**: Sales increased by 13% year-on-year, with operating income rising by 9%, reaching a record high for the third quarter [9] - **Pictures Segment**: Sales decreased by 11% year-on-year, and operating income decreased by 9% due to the absence of blockbuster films compared to the previous year [11] - **ET&S Segment**: Sales decreased by 7% year-on-year, and operating income decreased by 23% due to lower sales, partially offset by improved operating expenses [13] - **I&SS Segment**: Sales increased by 21% year-on-year, and operating income increased by 35%, both record highs for the segment [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - User engagement for PlayStation increased, with monthly active users rising by 2% to a record high of 132 million accounts [5] - Total playtime for the quarter increased by 0.4% year-on-year [5] - The global interchangeable lens camera market demand remained strong year-on-year, particularly in Asia [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to enhance its gaming and studio business by releasing new titles and leveraging successful franchises [8][10] - A strategic partnership with TCL was established to strengthen the home entertainment business through a joint venture [15][31] - The company plans to optimize its business portfolio and improve profitability while managing the impact of rising memory costs [17][69] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the uncertain business environment but expressed confidence in the company's ability to manage and produce results [18] - Concerns regarding memory supply and the impact of AI on the entertainment industry were discussed, with a focus on leveraging AI for content creation [26][53][78] Other Important Information - The company increased its share repurchase facility from JPY 100 billion to JPY 150 billion, reflecting confidence in its earnings and cash flow [18][68] - The acquisition of an additional equity interest in Peanuts Holdings was highlighted as a strategic initiative to enhance brand value [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: About the game "Marathon" and its strategic significance - Management explained that user feedback led to modifications before the release, emphasizing the importance of live service games for recurring revenue [22][24] Question: Concerns about stock price performance - Management acknowledged market concerns regarding memory supply and the entertainment sector's performance, emphasizing a focus on improving fundamentals and profitability [25][27] Question: ET&S structural reform and home entertainment partnership - Management clarified that the partnership with TCL aims to optimize the home entertainment business, with details still being discussed [30][32] Question: Impact of rising memory prices on PS5 - Management indicated that while there may be some impact on hardware sales, the established software and network service revenue will continue to contribute significantly [33][35] Question: Music streaming revenue growth prospects - Management expressed confidence in continued growth in the music business, driven by increasing average revenue per user and user numbers [39] Question: Generative AI's impact on game development - Management viewed AI as a tool that can enhance creativity in game development, emphasizing the importance of integrating AI with artistic sensitivity [77][78]
Fox(FOX) - 2026 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript
2026-02-04 14:32
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenues for the second quarter reached $5.18 billion, a 2% increase from the prior year quarter [14] - Adjusted EBITDA was $692 million, down from $781 million in the prior year quarter due to higher expenses [15] - Net income attributable to stockholders was $229 million or $0.52 per share, compared to $373 million or $0.81 per share in the prior year [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Cable segment revenues were $2.28 billion with an Adjusted EBITDA of $687 million, both representing a 5% growth year-over-year [16] - Television segment reported revenues of $2.94 billion, with advertising revenues unchanged due to the absence of last year's political advertising [17] - Distribution revenue grew 4% during the quarter, with subscriber declines improving sequentially [6] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Advertising revenue grew 1% despite a difficult comparison to last year's political cycle, driven by strong linear pricing and robust revenue growth at Tubi [14] - FOX News Digital saw a 170% increase in social media views over the prior year [8] - Tubi achieved its most streamed quarter of all time, with total view time growing 27% year-over-year [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company emphasizes a strategy focused on live sports and news, alongside the growth of Tubi and FOX One [11] - FOX One has exceeded expectations with strong consumer engagement, particularly among sports fans [39] - The company is committed to maintaining a strong balance sheet and delivering sustained growth and shareholder value [12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted robust advertising market conditions and expects continued strength in political advertising as the midterm elections approach [25] - The company is optimistic about the upcoming FIFA Men's World Cup and its potential profitability [27] - Management expressed confidence in the strategic direction and the ability to offset increased costs in the NFL contracts [33] Other Important Information - The company repurchased an additional $1.8 billion in shares, bringing the total cumulative amount repurchased to $8.4 billion since the buyback program began [19] - A semiannual dividend of $0.28 per share was announced, contributing to a total cumulative cash return to shareholders of approximately $10.4 billion [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the standout performance in cable advertising? - Management highlighted a robust advertising market for Fox News, with a significant increase in new advertisers and strong scatter pricing [25] Question: How do you plan to offset increased costs in the NFL? - Management indicated that they can offset some costs by balancing their sports portfolio and expect a robust political advertising cycle to benefit them [33] Question: What is the performance outlook for FOX One? - Management reported that FOX One has exceeded expectations, with a significant portion of its audience being sports fans, and they are on track to meet subscriber benchmarks [39] Question: Can you elaborate on the improvement in subscriber declines? - Management noted a 6.3% decline in subscribers, which is an improvement, and attributed it to the emergence of skinny bundles in the cable universe [45] Question: What are the growth drivers for Tubi? - Management stated that Tubi's growth is driven by a 27% increase in total view time and strong advertising trends, particularly among younger audiences [48]