Summary of The New York Times Company Conference Call Company Overview - **Company**: The New York Times Company (NYSE: NYT) - **Date**: December 09, 2025 - **Speaker**: Meredith Kopit Levien, President and CEO Key Points Industry Dynamics - The media and tech industries are experiencing significant dynamism, making high-quality independent journalism more crucial than ever [8][9][80] - The New York Times aims to be the world's best news destination, with a focus on interconnected product experiences and bundles [8][9] Strategic Priorities for 2026 1. Ambitious coverage of important global stories with top journalistic talent [9] 2. Expanding content formats, particularly video [9] 3. Adding value across the product portfolio, including news, sports, games, recipes, and shopping [9] 4. Increasing direct engagement with the audience [9][10] Subscriber Growth - Nearly 12 million digital subscribers, with a target of 15 million by 2027 [12] - The total addressable market (TAM) is believed to be larger than current penetration, with 150 million registrations and 50 to 100 million daily users [14][15] - The New York Times has the largest sports journalism newsroom, enhancing audience potential [15] Family Plans - Family Plans are seen as a significant driver for subscriber growth, contributing to revenue and engagement [26][28] - Early adoption has been promising, with marketing efforts aimed at both existing and new subscribers [29] Product Strategy - The Mini game was moved behind a paywall to enhance value and engagement without losing a significant free-to-play audience [32][34] - The company is focused on balancing audience growth with monetization strategies across its portfolio [36] Advertising Revenue - Digital advertising revenue growth is strong, driven by new ad supply in sports, games, and video [69][71] - The company is optimistic about sustaining growth rates in the low 20s to high teens [69] Cost Management - The New York Times has a strong track record of managing costs while investing in journalism and digital products [73] - The company has achieved approximately 200 basis points of margin improvement per year [74] Cash Management - The company has no debt and is focused on investing in its subscription strategy while returning at least 50% of free cash flow to shareholders [75][76] Technological Innovation and AI - The New York Times is leveraging AI to enhance journalism, improve customer experience, and increase operational efficiency [61][62] - The company is open to licensing content when it aligns with its subscription strategy [66] Lessons from Digital Transition - The New York Times has successfully transitioned from an analog to a digital business by focusing on audience engagement and maintaining a balance between free and paid products [78][79] - High-quality independent journalism remains a core value, with a commitment to providing valuable content across various categories [80] Additional Insights - The Watch Tab was launched to enhance video engagement, with positive early feedback [47][48] - The company is focused on reaching younger demographics through increased video production and innovative formats [58][59] This summary encapsulates the key insights and strategic directions discussed during the conference call, highlighting the New York Times' commitment to quality journalism and innovative growth strategies.

Core Insights - ONNIT, a health and wellness brand owned by Unilever, successfully migrated its subscriber base to Ordergroove and Shopify with a 99.6% success rate and no downtime [1][2] Group 1: Technology Integration - The integration of Ordergroove and Shopify provides ONNIT with a scalable tech stack that enhances its subscription model and allows for profitable recurring revenue [2][4] - This new tech foundation enables ONNIT to implement data-driven strategies, such as prepaid models and A/B-tested promotions, which aim to boost customer lifetime value [4][5] - The migration reflects a broader trend among enterprise brands moving away from custom-built systems to integrated platforms that support efficient scaling and profitable growth [6] Group 2: Customer Experience and Growth Strategy - ONNIT has revamped its brand experience with a focus on conversion-oriented user experience, making subscriptions central to its growth strategy [3][4] - The new system allows ONNIT to enhance customer experiences by providing more flexibility and personalized options, thereby fostering long-term relationships and loyalty [5][6] - The partnership with Ordergroove exemplifies how leading brands are prioritizing customer experience as a key driver of growth [6] Group 3: Industry Context - Ordergroove is recognized as a market leader in subscription technology, enabling brands to shift from one-time transactions to profitable recurring relationships [8] - The collaboration between ONNIT, Ordergroove, and Shopify highlights the importance of leveraging advanced technology to meet evolving consumer demands in the subscription economy [6][8]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q3 2025, consolidated revenues grew approximately 9.5% year-over-year, with adjusted operating profit (AOP) increasing by approximately 26% and AOP margin expanding by approximately 240 basis points [10][11] - Free cash flow generated in the first nine months of the year was approximately $393 million, reflecting a capital-efficient model [10] - Adjusted diluted EPS in Q3 increased by 14 cents to 59 cents, primarily driven by higher operating profit [13] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company added 460,000 net new digital subscribers in Q3, bringing the total subscriber base to approximately 12.3 million, with digital subscription revenue increasing by 14% to $367 million [4][12] - Total advertising revenues for the quarter were $132 million, an increase of approximately 12%, with digital advertising revenues increasing approximately 20% to $98 million [12][13] - Affiliate licensing and other revenues increased approximately 8% to $74 million, primarily due to higher licensing revenues [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Digital-only average revenue per user (ARPU) grew 3.6% to $9.79, reflecting successful pricing strategies [12] - The company expects digital-only subscription revenues to increase by 13-16% and total subscription revenues to increase by 8-10% in Q4 [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company emphasizes a multi-revenue stream model, including subscription, advertising, licensing, and affiliate revenues, which are all growing [3][4] - The strategy focuses on enhancing product value through video, audio, and AI, aiming to engage users more effectively [5][7] - The company aims to become more essential to a larger audience, thereby increasing shareholder value and societal impact [9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the ability to navigate a changing media landscape, highlighting persistent demand for quality journalism [9] - The company plans to continue disciplined investments in journalism and product experiences while maintaining cost efficiency [14] Other Important Information - The company returned approximately $191 million to shareholders, consisting of share repurchases and dividends, consistent with its capital allocation strategy [10][11] - The family plan subscription offering is performing well, contributing positively to market penetration and engagement [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Video format opportunity and advertising impact - Management sees video as a significant growth opportunity and is focused on increasing engagement before fully monetizing through advertising [16][17] Question: Growth rate in operating expenses for Q4 - Management indicated that the growth in operating expenses is driven by investments in journalism and product development, with a focus on long-term sustainable growth [21][22] Question: Dynamics of advertising growth - Management noted that advertising growth is attributed to a combination of market demand and new product innovations, with a focus on providing value to advertisers [40][42] Question: Performance of The Athletic - Management confirmed that The Athletic is performing well, contributing positively to engagement and advertising revenue [50] Question: Conversion rates from single product subscribers - Management stated that single product subscriptions are effectively driving audience engagement and conversion to higher-value products [52]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported nearly 10% year-over-year revenue growth, with adjusted operating profit (AOP) increasing approximately 28% and AOP margin expanding by about 280 basis points [14][18] - Free cash flow generated in the first half of the year was approximately $193 million, with $134 million returned to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends [15][16] - Adjusted diluted EPS in Q2 increased by $0.13 to $0.58, driven by higher operating profit and interest income [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Digital subscription revenue grew over 15% in the quarter, with total subscription revenues increasing approximately 10% to $481 million [6][18] - The company added 230,000 net new digital subscribers, bringing the total to approximately 11.9 million, with over 50% of subscribers now on bundled or multiple products [6][17] - Digital advertising revenues increased approximately 19% to $94 million, while total advertising revenues grew more than 12% to $134 million [10][18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company signed a multiyear deal with Amazon, marking its first agreement centered around generative AI, which is expected to expand its audience reach [11] - Affiliate, licensing, and other revenues increased approximately 6% to $70 million, with Wirecutter affiliate revenues performing well [19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to continue growing its subscriber base to 15 million by 2027, focusing on enhancing product accessibility and value [29] - The strategy includes expanding video content and enhancing user engagement across various platforms [9][10] - The company is confident in its ability to navigate a dynamic market environment, emphasizing the importance of building direct relationships with its audience [12][13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's positioning to grow despite challenges from big tech companies affecting traffic to publishers [12][44] - The company plans to maintain cost discipline while strategically investing in journalism and product experiences [12][20] - Future guidance includes expectations for continued revenue growth, AOP growth, margin expansion, and strong free cash flow generation [20] Other Important Information - The company is in the early stages of rolling out a new family plan subscription offering, which is expected to enhance subscriber retention and monetization [38] - The company will have only one reportable segment starting next quarter, streamlining its reporting structure [20] Q&A Session Summary Question: Advertising performance and key drivers - Management highlighted the broad marketer appeal of its portfolio, effective targeting with first-party data, and the introduction of new ad products as key drivers of advertising growth [23][24] Question: Amazon licensing deal specifics - The deal was described as providing fair value exchange and control over content use, aligning with the company's long-term strategy [25][26] Question: Subscriber growth towards 15 million - Management reiterated confidence in reaching the 15 million subscriber goal by 2027, citing persistent demand and a growing audience [28][29] Question: Bundle strategy progress - The achievement of 50% bundled subscribers was noted, with plans to continue driving bundle adoption as a growth catalyst [35][36] Question: Traffic headwinds from AI - Management acknowledged ongoing traffic challenges from AI but emphasized resilience through direct audience engagement strategies [44][45] Question: Promotional pricing strategy - The company maintains a consistent promotional pricing strategy to engage subscribers and drive bundle adoption [46][47] Question: AI licensing opportunities - Management expressed openness to future licensing deals, emphasizing the importance of fair value exchange and control over content [54][55]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported nearly 10% year-over-year revenue growth and approximately 28% growth in adjusted operating profit (AOP) with AOP margin expanding by about 280 basis points [13] - Free cash flow generated in the first half of the year was approximately $193 million, with about $134 million returned to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends [14][16] - Adjusted diluted EPS in Q2 increased by $0.13 to $0.58, primarily driven by higher operating profit and interest income [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Digital subscription revenue increased by over 15% in the quarter, with total subscription revenues growing approximately 10% to $481 million [6][16] - The company added 230,000 net new digital subscribers, bringing the total to approximately 11.9 million, with over 50% of subscribers now on bundled or multiple products [5][15] - Digital advertising revenues grew nearly 19% to $94 million, while total advertising revenues increased by approximately 12% to $134 million [9][16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Affiliate, licensing, and other revenues increased approximately 6% to $70 million, with growth particularly noted in areas like gifts, apparel, and beauty at Wirecutter [10][17] - The company signed a multiyear deal with Amazon, marking its first agreement centered around generative AI, which is expected to enhance audience reach [10][32] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to continue growing its subscriber base to 15 million by 2027, focusing on enhancing product accessibility and value [29] - The strategy includes expanding video content to engage audiences more effectively, with a significant push in producing news videos and enhancing lifestyle product experiences [7][9] - The company remains confident in its ability to grow despite challenges from big tech companies affecting traffic to publishers, emphasizing the importance of direct relationships with audiences [11][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's positioning to continue delivering revenue and profit growth, citing strong audience engagement and a disciplined investment approach [4][12] - The company anticipates healthy growth in revenues and AOP, margin expansion, and strong free cash flow generation for the full year [19] - Management acknowledged the challenges posed by AI technologies affecting traffic but emphasized resilience through a focus on essential journalism and audience engagement [44][59] Other Important Information - The company is in the early stages of rolling out a new family plan subscription offering, which is expected to enhance subscriber retention and monetization [38] - The company plans to operate with only one reportable segment starting next quarter, streamlining its reporting structure [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Advertising performance compared to other digital platforms - Management highlighted the broad marketer appeal of their portfolio, effective targeting with first-party data, and the introduction of new ad products as key factors driving advertising growth [22][23] Question: Amazon licensing deal details - The deal was described as consistent with the company's principles, providing fair value exchange and control over content usage, reinforcing the value of their journalism [24][25] Question: Subscriber growth towards 15 million - Management reiterated the goal of reaching 15 million subscribers by 2027, citing persistent demand and a growing audience of registered users [28][29] Question: Amazon AI deal impact on guidance - The Amazon agreement is included in the guidance, with expectations for revenue growth in the affiliate licensing and other revenue line [31][32] Question: Bundle strategy progress - Management expressed satisfaction with achieving 50% of subscribers on bundles, emphasizing the strong lifetime value of bundled subscribers [35][36] Question: Traffic headwinds from AI - Management acknowledged the impact of AI on traffic but emphasized their strategy to build direct relationships with audiences to mitigate these effects [44][59] Question: Promotional pricing strategy for bundles - Management confirmed no changes to their promotional pricing strategy, focusing on engaging subscribers and driving them towards the bundle [46][47]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a strong start to the year with a 22% year-over-year growth in Adjusted Operating Profit (AOP) and an expansion of AOP margin by approximately 180 basis points [14] - Free cash flow generated in Q1 was approximately $90 million, including a one-time benefit of $33 million from the sale of excess land [14][15] - Adjusted diluted EPS increased by $0.10 to $0.41, driven by higher operating profit and interest income [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company added 250,000 net new digital subscribers, surpassing 11 million digital-only subscribers, bringing the total subscriber base to 11.7 million [6][13] - Digital subscription revenue, the largest and fastest-growing revenue stream, increased by more than 14% to $335 million [7][17] - Digital advertising revenue grew by 12%, marking the strongest growth rate in three years, with total advertising revenues increasing by approximately 4% to $108 million [8][18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported that bundle and multi-product subscribers now make up approximately 49% of the total subscriber base, indicating a shift towards bundled offerings [13] - Engagement levels remained high, with 50 to 100 million people turning to the company's offerings each week [5] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to continue comprehensive coverage of important stories, innovate in video and audio, and enhance product value through new content and features [10][11][12] - The strategy focuses on leveraging multiple complementary revenue lines, including subscriptions, advertising, affiliate, and licensing, which are all experiencing healthy growth [5][9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the long-term growth drivers and the ability to navigate an uncertain market environment, citing strong audience engagement and a robust balance sheet [20] - The impact of tariffs on the business has been described as immaterial to date, with expectations for healthy revenue growth and margin expansion for the full year [20] Other Important Information - The company won four Pulitzer Prizes, highlighting its commitment to high-quality journalism [10] - The company is focused on maintaining disciplined cost growth while investing in journalism and product enhancements [9][20] Q&A Session Summary Question: Strength in digital ad revenue - Management noted that the ad business is now viewed similarly to the consumer business, with engaged audiences and a suite of high-performing ad products [25][26] Question: News-only subscriber base stability - Management confirmed that the strategy is working as designed, with expectations for continued marketing of the bundle and gradual conversion of legacy subscribers [30][32] Question: Subscriber dynamics and ARPU - Management indicated that total digital-only ARPU grew by 3.6% to $9.54, with confidence in the trajectory due to strong engagement and value addition [16][37] Question: Tactics for managing promotional pricing - Management explained that they monitor engagement closely and adjust pricing strategies accordingly, including potential intermediate pricing for subscribers transitioning from promotional rates [46][48] Question: Digital ad revenue growth - Management expressed optimism about the ad business, highlighting strong performance across various categories and the ability to target engaged audiences effectively [51]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a strong start to the year with a 22% year-over-year growth in Adjusted Operating Profit (AOP) and an expansion of AOP margin by approximately 180 basis points [14] - Free cash flow generated in Q1 was approximately $90 million, including a one-time benefit of $33 million from the sale of excess land [14] - Adjusted diluted EPS increased by $0.10 to $0.41, driven by higher operating profit and interest income [18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company added 250,000 net new digital subscribers, surpassing 11 million digital-only subscribers, bringing the total subscriber base to 11.7 million [6][13] - Digital subscription revenue, the largest and fastest-growing revenue stream, increased by more than 14% to $335 million [7][16] - Digital advertising revenue grew by 12%, marking the strongest growth rate in three years, with total advertising revenues increasing by approximately 4% to $108 million [8][17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported that bundle and multi-product subscribers now make up approximately 49% of the total subscriber base, indicating a shift towards bundled offerings [13] - Licensing and affiliate revenues also saw strong growth, contributing to sustainable revenue streams [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on comprehensive news coverage, innovation in video and audio, and enhancing product value through new content and features [10][11] - The strategy includes leveraging a diverse portfolio of revenue lines, including subscriptions, advertising, affiliate, and licensing, which are all growing at healthy rates [5][9] - The company aims to continue building a larger and more profitable organization while maintaining a disciplined approach to cost growth [9][19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the long-term growth drivers and the ability to navigate an uncertain market environment, citing strong audience engagement and a robust product portfolio [12][19] - The impact of tariffs on the business has been described as immaterial to date, with expectations for healthy growth in revenues and AOP for the full year [19] Other Important Information - The company won four Pulitzer Prizes, highlighting its commitment to high-quality journalism [10] - Engagement with video and audio content has more than doubled, indicating a successful strategy in making reporting more accessible [11] Q&A Session Summary Question: Strength in digital ad revenue - Management noted that the ad business is now viewed similarly to the consumer business, with engaged audiences and a suite of high-performing ad products driving confidence in growth [22][24] Question: Stability of news-only subscriber base - Management confirmed that the strategy is working as designed, with expectations for continued marketing of the bundle and gradual conversion of legacy subscribers [27][28] Question: Subscriber dynamics and ARPU - Management explained that the total digital-only ARPU grew by 3.6% to $9.54, with confidence in the trajectory due to strong engagement and value addition [15][34] Question: Tactics for managing promotional pricing - Management described a sophisticated approach to transitioning subscribers from promotional pricing to full pricing, focusing on engagement signals to determine pricing strategies [42][45] Question: Digital ad revenue performance - Management expressed optimism about the ad business, noting strong performance across various categories and improving targeting capabilities [49][50]