Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - STARZ achieved an all-time high of 12.7 million OTT subscribers, growing year-over-year by 7.6% and adding 370,000 subscribers in Q4 alone [5][15] - Total revenue for the quarter was $323 million, up 60 basis points sequentially, driven by an increase in Distribution revenue [16] - Adjusted OIBDA for Q4 was $56 million, up over 100% sequentially, with a total of $204 million for the year, exceeding the $200 million outlook [17][18] - The company ended the year with a leverage ratio of 2.9x, better than the previous guidance of 3.1x [18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The increase in OTT subscribers was partially offset by a decline in linear customers, with total U.S. subscribers growing to 17.6 million [15] - The growth in subscribers was driven by demand for scripted originals, including "Force" and "Spartacus" [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company restructured its Canadian business into a Licensing revenue stream, focusing on the U.S. market [9] - The transition to a content licensing relationship in Canada impacted revenue recognition, contributing to the sequential revenue growth [16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - STARZ aims to increase margins to 20% by 2028, with a focus on owning more content and expanding its programming slate [10][22] - The company is positioned to capitalize on potential M&A opportunities due to increased consolidation in the media landscape [12] - STARZ plans to de-emphasize quarterly subscriber management and focus on long-term OTT revenue growth and profitability [11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the strong start to 2026, driven by a compelling lineup of originals and a focus on underrepresented audiences [7][8] - The company expects unlevered free cash flow to range between $80 million and $120 million in 2026, with a continued focus on reducing leverage [18][19] Other Important Information - STARZ will not disclose subscriber numbers starting with the March 2026 quarter, focusing instead on revenue growth and profitability [12] - The company is excited about expanding bundling relationships, which are driving new additions and better retention [34][35] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you walk us through some of the moving pieces regarding OTT revenue and total revenue? - Management indicated that OTT revenue is expected to grow, with a slight improvement in margins anticipated for 2026, while significant improvements are expected in 2027 and 2028 [21][22] Question: What kind of assets would you be interested in for potential M&A? - Management highlighted the importance of complementary assets that can transition from linear to digital, emphasizing a cautious approach to leverage [25][27] Question: How do you rank order your capital allocation priorities as free cash flow improves? - Management noted that as free cash flow improves, they will consider returning cash to shareholders while continuing to invest in the business [28] Question: Can you discuss the retention patterns for subscribers from recent shows? - Management stated that the programming slate is designed to maintain subscriber retention throughout the year, supported by longer-term offers [32][33] Question: How do you view the demand environment for your programming internationally? - Management expressed optimism about the international market, particularly in the U.K. and France, and highlighted the strong relationship with Sky as a key partnership [48] Question: How do you plan to manage pricing strategy going forward? - Management indicated that they aim to remain underpriced compared to broad-based streamers, allowing room for future price increases [50] Question: How do you weigh starting new shows versus spin-offs of existing successful shows? - Management emphasized the importance of franchising successful shows like "Power" and "Outlander" to drive engagement and launch new IP [53][55]