Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenues decreased by 5% to $225.6 million in the first quarter, reflecting the seasonality of the business [11] - Adjusted operating loss improved to $81.9 million from $85.6 million in the prior year [12] - Adjusted EBITDA was a loss of $55.7 million, an improvement from a loss of $60.5 million a year ago [13] - Net loss was $63.3 million compared to $60.3 million in the prior year period, with adjusted loss per diluted share increasing to $2.52 from $2.13 [13] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Children's Book Publishing and Distribution revenues increased by 4% to $109.4 million, driven by growth in School Book Fairs [14] - Book Fair revenue was $34.1 million, an increase of 18%, while Book Clubs revenue decreased to $1.8 million from $2.7 million [14] - Trade Publishing revenues were essentially flat at $73.5 million, reflecting strong demand for key titles [14] - Scholastic Education segment revenues decreased to $40.1 million from $55.7 million, impacted by lower spending on supplemental curriculum products [15] - Entertainment Segment revenues decreased by $3 million to $13.6 million, primarily due to fewer episodic deliveries [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - International Segment revenues increased to $59.4 million from $56.8 million, with growth driven by higher revenues in Australia, the U.K., and Asia [16] - Excluding foreign currency impacts, segment revenues were up $2.4 million [16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on real estate monetization and has significant investor interest in its properties [4] - Aiming for profitable growth through financial discipline and operational leverage while affirming full-year guidance [4] - The integration of Trade, Fairs, and Clubs into a new Children's Book Group aims to streamline operations and enhance data analytics [7] - The company is leveraging digital platforms like YouTube to expand its IP reach and create high-margin revenue streams [9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged a challenging funding environment for Scholastic Education but remains confident in long-term potential [10] - The company expects a strong second quarter, benefiting from major trade releases and increased fair bookings [19] - Affirmation of fiscal year 2026 guidance for revenue growth of 2%-4% and adjusted EBITDA of $160 million-$170 million [19] Other Important Information - The company is closely monitoring tariff impacts, expecting approximately $10 million in incremental tariff expenses this fiscal year [19] - Seasonal net cash used by operating activities was $81.8 million, an increase from $41.9 million in the prior year [17] - The company has $70 million remaining on its share buyback authorization [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Feedback on new products in Education Solutions - Management received positive feedback on new products despite a difficult selling environment due to funding uncertainties [22][23] Question: Key variables to monitor for spending trends - Management indicated that schools are still spending but are cautious due to funding uncertainties, expecting improvements as funding becomes more certain [24][25] Question: Timing for financial impact from the Entertainment Segment - Management noted that digital revenue from YouTube will grow over time, with no immediate financial impact expected [26][27] Question: Cost structure and expense reduction opportunities - Management highlighted ongoing cost reduction efforts, with $15 million to $20 million in reductions already realized [31][32] Question: Factors affecting fiscal year guidance - Management emphasized the importance of retail market conditions and tariff expenses in achieving guidance [34][35] Question: Expectations for fiscal Q2 - Management expressed optimism for Q2, citing strong upcoming releases and increased fair bookings [45][46]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenues decreased by 5% to $225.6 million in the first quarter, reflecting the seasonality of the business [13] - Adjusted EBITDA was a loss of $55.7 million, an improvement from a loss of $60.5 million a year ago [14] - Net loss was $63.3 million compared to $60.3 million in the prior year period, with adjusted loss per diluted share increasing to $2.52 from $2.13 [14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Children's Book Publishing and Distribution revenues increased by 4% to $109.4 million, with Book Fair revenue rising by 18% to $34.1 million [14][15] - Scholastic Education segment revenues decreased to $40.1 million from $55.7 million in the prior year, reflecting lower spending on supplemental curriculum products [15][16] - Entertainment segment revenues decreased by $3 million to $13.6 million, primarily due to fewer episodic deliveries [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - International segment revenues increased to $59.4 million from $56.8 million, driven by higher revenues in Australia, the UK, and Asia [17] - The company expects to surpass 10 million monthly views of classic Clifford content on YouTube by year-end [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on building long-term opportunities in children's publishing, media, and education, while reducing costs and optimizing capital structure [22] - The integration of Trade, Fairs, and Clubs into a new Children's Book Group aims to streamline operations and enhance data analytics [8] - The company is pursuing real estate monetization, with significant investor interest in its properties [4][19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged a volatile funding environment affecting the Education segment but remains confident in long-term potential [10][11] - The company affirmed its fiscal year 2026 guidance for revenue growth of 2% to 4% and adjusted EBITDA of $160 to $170 million [21] Other Important Information - The company returned $5.2 million to shareholders through regular dividends and has $70 million remaining on its share buyback authorization [18] - The company is closely monitoring tariff impacts, expecting approximately $10 million in incremental tariff expenses this fiscal year [21] Q&A Session Summary Question: Feedback on new products in Education Solutions - Management received positive feedback on new products despite a difficult selling environment due to funding uncertainties [25] Question: Key variables to watch for spending trends - Management indicated that schools are still spending but are cautious due to funding uncertainties, expecting more confidence as federal programs resume [26][28] Question: Timing for financial impact from the Entertainment segment - Management noted that digital revenue from YouTube is expected to grow over time, with no immediate financial impact [30] Question: Cost structure and expense reduction opportunities - Management highlighted ongoing cost reduction efforts, with $15 million to $20 million in cost savings already realized [36] Question: Factors affecting fiscal year guidance - Management emphasized the importance of retail market conditions and tariff impacts on the business [37][38]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenues decreased by 5% to $225.6 million in Q1 2026, reflecting the seasonality of the business [11] - Adjusted EBITDA was a loss of $55.7 million, an improvement from a loss of $60.5 million a year ago [12] - Net loss was $63.3 million compared to $60.3 million in the prior year period, with adjusted loss per diluted share increasing to $2.52 from $2.13 [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Children's Book Publishing and Distribution revenues increased by 4% to $109.4 million, with Book Fair revenue rising 18% to $34.1 million [13][14] - Trade Publishing revenues were essentially flat at $73.5 million, driven by strong demand for key titles [14] - Scholastic Education segment revenues decreased to $40.1 million from $55.7 million, reflecting lower spending on supplemental curriculum products [15] - Entertainment segment revenues decreased by $3 million to $13.6 million, primarily due to fewer episodic deliveries [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - International segment revenues increased to $59.4 million from $56.8 million, with growth driven by higher revenues in Australia, the UK, and Asia [16] - The company expects to see growth opportunities in expanding English as a second language programs in markets like India and the Philippines [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on building long-term opportunities as a global leader in children's publishing, media, and education [20] - Ongoing real estate monetization efforts are generating significant investor interest, with processes expected to conclude in the fall [18] - The integration of Trade, Fairs, and Clubs into a new Children's Book Group aims to streamline operations and enhance data analytics [7] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management remains optimistic about the long-term potential of the Education segment despite current funding uncertainties [10] - The company is affirming its fiscal year 2026 guidance for revenue growth of 2% to 4% and adjusted EBITDA of $160 to $170 million [19] - Management highlighted the importance of aligning spending with long-term goals to drive favorable operating margins [19] Other Important Information - The company had borrowings of $325 million under its unsecured revolving credit facility, with net debt increasing to $242.8 million [17] - Free cash use in Q1 was $100.2 million compared to $68.7 million in the prior year, reflecting lower cash flow from operations [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Feedback on new products in Education Solutions business - Management received positive feedback on new products, particularly Knowledge Library, despite a difficult selling environment due to funding uncertainties [22][23] Question: Key variables to monitor for spending trends - Management indicated that schools continue to spend, but uncertainty in future funding may lead to cautious purchasing [24] Question: Timing for financial impact from YouTube content - Management expects gradual benefits from the digital model and advertising revenue, with significant growth anticipated over time [28] Question: Cost structure and expense reduction opportunities - Management is actively identifying areas for cost reduction, with an expected $15 million to $20 million in savings [33] Question: Guidance affirmation and potential performance variables - Management expressed confidence in their guidance, noting that retail market conditions and tariff impacts are key factors to monitor [34][35]

Core Insights - Scholastic Corporation reported financial results for the fiscal first quarter ended August 31, 2025, affirming its fiscal 2026 guidance despite a seasonal operating loss [1][2][6] - The company experienced a decrease in revenues by 5% to $225.6 million, primarily due to lower sales in the Education Solutions segment [6][7] - Adjusted EBITDA improved by 8% to a loss of $55.7 million, reflecting a reduction in discretionary overhead expenses and higher revenues in the Children's Book Publishing and Distribution segment [7][8] Financial Performance - Revenues decreased from $237.2 million in fiscal 2025 to $225.6 million in fiscal 2026, a decline of $11.6 million or 5% [6][7] - Operating loss increased to $92.2 million from $88.5 million year-over-year, with one-time charges impacting both periods [7][8] - Diluted earnings per share fell to $(2.83) from $(2.21), a decrease of 28% [6][7] Segment Analysis - Children's Book Publishing and Distribution segment revenues increased by 4% to $109.4 million, driven by strong performances in book fairs and franchises like Hunger Games [9][11] - Education Solutions revenues decreased by 28% to $40.1 million due to funding uncertainties affecting school purchases [12][13] - Entertainment segment revenues fell by 18% to $13.6 million, primarily due to anticipated production delays [13][14] Capital Position and Liquidity - Net cash used by operating activities was $81.8 million, compared to $41.9 million in the prior year, reflecting lower net income and seasonal working capital needs [16][18] - Free cash flow usage increased to $100.2 million from $68.7 million year-over-year, driven by higher operating cash use [16][18] - Net debt rose to $242.8 million from $152.1 million, influenced by working capital requirements and dividends [18][19] Strategic Initiatives - The company is focused on optimizing capital allocation and strengthening its balance sheet, including evaluating potential sale-leaseback transactions for key real estate assets [6][20] - Scholastic is expanding its digital and licensing revenue streams through new initiatives, including a Scholastic-branded streaming app and tie-in products for new IP [4][6] - The company aims to enhance its Education division by refining its product portfolio and aligning marketing strategies to better meet educators' needs [5][12]

Group 1: China’s Economic Initiatives - China is rolling out policies to invigorate service consumption and tourism, including issuing 5-year multiple-entry visas to a broader range of individuals and extending business hours for tourist attractions and museums [2][3][9] - The country aims to expand pilot programs in strategic sectors such as telecommunications, healthcare, and education to attract global capital and open up the economy [3][9] - China plans to promote international sporting events, targeting a total scale of the sports industry to exceed 7 trillion yuan ($982 billion) by 2030, as part of its strategy to make domestic demand the primary engine of economic growth [3][9] Group 2: European Central Bank (ECB) Stance - The ECB is maintaining a cautious approach to future interest rate adjustments, with Governing Council member Scicluna stating that there are no planned cuts, emphasizing a data-dependent approach [4][9] Group 3: Automotive Industry Developments - Ford Motor Company is set to cut 1,000 jobs at its Cologne plant in Germany in early 2026 as part of a broader restructuring effort across Europe, with a total workforce reduction of approximately 4,000 employees by 2027 [5][9]

Corporate Responses - American Airlines pilots who celebrated the assassination of Charlie Kirk were immediately grounded and removed from service, with calls for their termination due to glorifying political violence [3] - Delta Air Lines suspended several employees for social media posts that exceeded respectful debate, indicating that violations of their social media policy could lead to termination [3][8] - The University of Miami's health care system fired an employee for making unacceptable public commentary regarding Kirk's death [9] - Children's Healthcare of Atlanta terminated a worker for inappropriate comments about Kirk's killing, emphasizing that such rhetoric violates their social media policy [9] - Office Depot fired an employee for refusing to print flyers about Charlie Kirk, labeling the incident as unacceptable and insensitive [13][15] - Nasdaq terminated an employee for remarks that condoned or celebrated violence related to Kirk [17] Educational Institutions - Middle Tennessee State University fired an employee for making a derogatory comment about Kirk's fate, with the university stating the termination was effective immediately [4] - Idaho's West Ada School District also fired an employee for posting inappropriate content online, expressing shock and sadness over the incident [6] - A middle school science teacher in Oregon was placed on leave and subsequently resigned after stating that Kirk's death "brightened up" his day [6] - Clemson University suspended an employee pending investigation for social media posts related to Kirk's death [7] Media and Public Figures - MSNBC analyst Matthew Dowd was fired for implying that Kirk's "awful words" led to "awful actions," with the network's president calling his remarks inappropriate and insensitive [10][12] - A coordinated effort appears to be behind the firings, with a doxxing site named "Expose Charlie's Murderers" collecting information on individuals who made posts about Kirk [22][23]

[Music] [Applause] Lean in and listen. I'm going to tell you a story. And like all good stories, it begins a long time ago. A long time ago, learning was fun.When I was five, I couldn't wait to get my hands on the latest picture book about dinosaurs or space. These books were full of bright, colorful pictures and fun facts that made you want to learn more. Then I started school.It was all right. I was a good student and I got good grades. But learning had become work.Gone were the picture books, replaced by ...

Core Insights - CIMA has proposed policy recommendations to enhance Hong Kong's status as a leading financial center and stimulate long-term economic growth [1][2] - The recommendations focus on leveraging Hong Kong's position as an international gateway and attracting businesses and finance professionals [2][5] Policy Recommendations - Development of policies that highlight Hong Kong's financial strengths and its role in global markets [2] - A strategic approach to attract local, regional, and international businesses and finance professionals [2] - Proposal of an Industrial Strategy to diversify the economy across various sectors, including business, education, technology, and infrastructure [2] Regulatory Environment - Creation of a "proportionate and predictable" regulatory environment to assist businesses in strategic planning and resource allocation [3] - Recommendations for the Hong Kong Government to lead in establishing regulations to prevent "greenwashing" and enhance market integrity, thereby increasing public trust [3][4] Sustainability and Education - Adoption of the new HKFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards to promote responsible business practices and equitable economic growth [4] - Expansion of the Continuing Education Fund (CEF) to include international professional qualifications accessible through digital platforms [4] Talent Attraction - Promotion of Hong Kong as an attractive location for living and working, emphasizing career advancement, job stability, and a supportive tax environment [5] Economic Outlook - AICPA and CIMA's third quarter Economic Outlook Survey indicates a slight increase in optimism among US business leaders, with 34% expressing a positive outlook, up from 27% in the previous quarter [6]

Accessibility StatementSkip Navigation BEIJING, Sept. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Youlife Group Inc. ("Youlife" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: YOUL), a leading blue-collar lifetime service provider in China, today announced that the Company will host a virtual investor event on Thursday, September 18, 2025, beginning at 8:00 AM Beijing/Hong Kong time (8:00 PM EST on Wednesday, September 17, 2025). The virtual event will feature presentations led by Mr. Yunlei Wang, Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, an ...

Industry Concerns - The tech industry is experiencing significant anxiety among workers, particularly remote workers, with 47% expressing concerns about layoffs compared to 20% of in-office workers [1] - Layoffs are more prevalent in certain industries, prompting workers to reassess their skill sets and develop transferable skills to remain competitive [2] - The finance sector, especially investment banking and fintech, is undergoing transformations due to economic uncertainty, investment risks, and higher interest rates, leading to regular layoffs [7] - The healthcare industry, while historically stable, is facing challenges due to federal job cuts impacting the Health and Human Services Department, resulting in layoffs primarily affecting administrative roles [10][11] - The education sector is also grappling with layoffs, exacerbated by funding cuts from state and federal governments, leading to staff downsizing [12][13][14] Layoff Trends - Nearly one in three Americans would accept a 10% to 20% pay cut to avoid layoffs, highlighting the financial preparedness issues, with 13% having no savings [3] - Layoff concerns are driven by trends such as economic uncertainty, political volatility, AI and automation, shifting consumer behavior, and over-hiring during economic booms [3] - The outsourcing of talent due to funding issues is contributing to layoffs in the tech sector, as companies hire software developers in countries with lower wages [5][6] Future Outlook - Despite the volatility in the job market, the year is projected to be active in hiring, particularly in the finance sector, supported by a strong equities market and increased mergers and acquisitions activity [9] - The evolving nature of jobs means that while concerns about layoffs are valid, opportunities for growth and adaptation remain for younger generations entering the workforce [15][16]