Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total media revenue was in line with expectations, with adjusted EBITDA exceeding the high end of guidance by approximately $9 million [6][24][30] - Distribution revenues increased by $15 million year over year, although they came in $2 million below guidance due to subscriber churn not catching up [7][24] - First lien net leverage was 1.8 times, total first lien net leverage at 4.2 times, and total net leverage at 5.8 times as of March 31 [22][23] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Local Media segment saw core advertising down 4.5% year over year, while distribution revenues grew year over year but were slightly below expectations [24][30] - Tennis Channel reported revenues and adjusted EBITDA in line with guidance, with total revenues growing by 9% year over year [25][30] - Adjusted EBITDA declined by $27 million year over year, driven by lower core political and management fee revenues [26] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Core advertising revenues were within guidance range, down low single digits year over year, with expectations for growth in the upcoming political season [12][13] - Net retransmission revenues grew by mid single digits year over year, with a two-year CAGR expected through the end of the year [14] - Subscriber churn has moderated, with Charter reducing video subscriber discounts by 55% year over year [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is transforming its ventures portfolio towards more majority-owned assets and is focused on expanding its digital and streaming footprint [8][10] - Regulatory optimism exists regarding potential changes to outdated FCC regulations that could facilitate M&A activity and strengthen local journalism [19][20] - The company is committed to elevating women's sports through new podcast launches and partnerships [17][18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism regarding core advertising growth despite reduced visibility due to macroeconomic uncertainties [40][41] - The upcoming political season is expected to drive advertising dollars, with competitive Senate and gubernatorial races anticipated [13][24] - The company is positioned for growth with a strong balance sheet and a comprehensive refinancing completed [22][31] Other Important Information - Lucy Rutishauser, CFO, announced her upcoming retirement after over 26 years with the company, with plans for a smooth transition [21][20] - The company repurchased approximately $66 million in face value of STG's 2027 notes for $62 million in early April [23][30] Q&A Session Summary Question: Comments on FCC regulations and retransmission rates - Management noted that the FCC has the ability to regulate network-affiliate relationships and that capping retransmission rates could level the playing field [36][37] Question: Visibility on core advertising and economic uncertainties - Management indicated that while they expect core advertising to grow year over year, visibility has decreased due to uncertainties in key advertising categories [39][40] Question: Trends in automotive advertising - Management has not seen a significant bump in automotive advertising but noted that Nissan is planning an aggressive ad campaign [46] Question: Capital allocation priorities and debt repayment - The focus remains on deleveraging the local media group, with continued debt paydown expected [50] Question: Details on the Compulse acquisition - Compulse is described as a best-in-class platform delivering double-digit growth, with plans to scale it significantly [70][72]