IMAX Corporation Conference Summary Industry Overview - The theatrical exhibition industry, particularly in North America, is facing challenges, with a reported 14% decline in box office revenue for North American exhibitors quarter to date [2] - IMAX, however, is experiencing a record year, projecting $1.2 billion in box office revenue, with a quarter-to-date revenue of approximately $270 million, up 40% from the previous year [1][2] Key Points and Arguments IMAX's Unique Positioning - IMAX has successfully pivoted to a global content strategy, with one-third of its box office revenue coming from foreign language films [2] - The company is focusing on premium experiences, which are in high demand post-pandemic, leading to a 40% increase in market share compared to pre-pandemic levels [8] - IMAX's Filmed For IMAX program is gaining traction, with 11 films already committed for 2026, indicating strong demand from filmmakers [9][11] Box Office Performance - IMAX's share of the domestic box office for blockbuster films has increased from 10% to 15% this year [13] - The company has successfully managed scheduling conflicts between studios, ensuring optimal release dates for films [14] Local Language Content Growth - Local language films have grown from approximately 10% of IMAX's box office pre-pandemic to around 33% in 2023, with expectations to reach 40% in the coming years [36][39] Streaming and Theatrical Dynamics - The competition for blockbuster slots has intensified with the entry of streaming services like Apple and Amazon into theatrical releases [19] - IMAX is adopting a pragmatic approach to the hybrid model of streaming and theatrical releases, collaborating with streaming platforms to enhance box office performance [20][23] Market Expansion Opportunities - IMAX is about 50% penetrated in its total addressable market, with significant growth potential in underpenetrated regions like Western Europe and the Middle East [30][32] - The company has seen rapid growth in Japan and Australia, with new theater signings and increased box office performance [31] Capital Allocation Strategy - IMAX employs two models for theaters: equipment sales and joint ventures, with a preference for joint ventures in high-revenue markets like Japan [40][41] Content Diversification - IMAX is exploring diverse content types, including concerts and live events, which have proven successful in attracting new audiences [47][48] AI Integration - IMAX is leveraging AI to enhance business operations, improve programming decisions, and monitor theater performance in real-time [51][52] Other Important Insights - The company is optimistic about upcoming films, particularly "Odyssey," which is the first film shot entirely with IMAX cameras, and anticipates strong performance from "Avatar" and the new Star Wars film [56][57] - Despite a strong second quarter, IMAX's stock experienced a decline due to market perceptions focused on North American exhibitors, highlighting a disconnect between IMAX's performance and investor sentiment [37][38] This summary encapsulates the key insights from the IMAX conference, highlighting the company's strategic positioning, growth opportunities, and market dynamics.

Core Insights - AMC Entertainment is expected to report a quarterly loss of -$0.04 per share, reflecting a year-over-year increase of 90.7% in losses [1] - Revenue projections for AMC are set at $1.35 billion, which represents a 30.8% increase compared to the same quarter last year [1] - Analysts have revised their consensus EPS estimate downward by 255.6% over the past 30 days, indicating a significant reassessment of the company's financial outlook [1] Revenue Estimates - Analysts predict 'Revenues- Food and beverage' will reach $477.15 million, showing a year-over-year change of +30% [3] - The estimated 'Revenues- Other theatre' is projected at $122.88 million, indicating a year-over-year change of +24% [4] - 'Revenues- Admissions' is expected to be $748.23 million, reflecting a change of +32.6% from the prior-year quarter [4] Stock Performance - Over the past month, AMC Entertainment shares have recorded a return of -2.1%, while the Zacks S&P 500 composite has seen a +0.5% change [4] - AMC holds a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold), suggesting that its performance is likely to align with the overall market in the upcoming period [4]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Cinemark reported a 28% year-over-year increase in revenue, reaching $941 million during the second quarter, with adjusted EBITDA rising 63% to $232 million, marking a margin expansion to 24.7% [9][19][24] - The company achieved its highest quarterly domestic admissions revenues since the pandemic and the third highest quarterly result of all time [8][9] - Net income attributable to Cinemark Holdings Inc was $93.5 million, resulting in diluted earnings per share of $0.63 [25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Domestic admissions revenue was $383.4 million, with an average ticket price of $10.39, reflecting a 5% year-over-year increase [20] - Concession revenue grew 33% year-over-year to $307.6 million, marking the first time exceeding $300 million in a single quarter [20] - International revenue grew 12% year-over-year to $181.2 million, with adjusted EBITDA increasing 32% to $44.1 million [22][23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The North American industry box office reached $2.7 billion in the second quarter, up more than 35% year-over-year, with a significant recovery in consumer enthusiasm for theatrical experiences [5][6] - Global attendance grew 16% year-over-year to 57.9 million patrons, with domestic attendance at 36.9 million guests [19][20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Cinemark's strategy focuses on enhancing guest experiences through technology, service quality, and premium offerings, including expanding reclining seats and introducing more PLF formats [10][14] - The company is committed to capital allocation strategies that strengthen its balance sheet, invest in long-term growth, and return excess capital to shareholders [26][29] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the film pipeline ahead, anticipating a strong fourth quarter with a robust lineup of films [17][68] - The company remains optimistic about long-term margin potential driven by box office recovery and strategic initiatives [91] Other Important Information - The company ended the quarter with $932 million in cash and generated $246 million in free cash flow, reflecting strong cash-generating capabilities [26][28] - The loyalty programs, including Cinemark Rewards and Movie Club, significantly contributed to domestic box office proceeds, accounting for over 55% and nearly 30% respectively [14][15] Q&A Session Summary Question: Discussion on convertible notes and capital allocation - Management indicated intent to settle warrants in shares, with decisions contingent on stock price and liquidity considerations [34][36] Question: Impact of new tax legislation on cash flow - Management expects meaningful benefits from new legislation regarding bonus depreciation and interest expense limitations, though quantification is still in analysis [40][41] Question: PLF strategy and co-branding opportunities - Management emphasized the importance of providing a premium experience across all formats, with PLFs accounting for about 15% of domestic box office [48][49] Question: General and administrative expenses outlook - Management anticipates growth in G&A due to targeted investments and rising costs, despite a decrease in stock-based compensation [52] Question: Concession costs and inflation management - Management expects higher COGS rates due to inflation and product mix shifts, while pursuing strategies to mitigate these impacts [55] Question: Future content releases and international performance - Management noted a strong fourth quarter lineup and positive performance in Latin America, despite tough year-over-year comparisons [70][74]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - IMAX reported strong financial results for Q2 2025, with installation growth of 50%, box office growth of over 40%, and an adjusted EBITDA margin of 43% [6][23] - Revenues for Q2 reached $92 million, up from $89 million in the prior year, with a gross margin of $54 million, reflecting a 58% margin and over 900 basis points improvement year over year [24][25] - Adjusted EBITDA for Q2 was $39 million, an increase of $8 million or 26% year over year, resulting in a strong adjusted EBITDA margin of 42.6% [29][30] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Content Solutions revenues were $34 million, reflecting significant growth in IMAX box office of over 40%, while Technology Products and Services revenues were $56 million, up 9% year over year [25][26] - The quarter saw strong growth in installations, with 36 systems installed compared to 24 in the prior year, indicating robust demand from exhibitors [27][28] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - IMAX achieved a global market share of 3.6% on less than 1% of screens, with a remarkable 5.3% share of the domestic box office and 6% share of China's box office [25][26] - The company is on track to meet or exceed its guidance for the full year, including box office and system installations expected to be between 150 and 160 [24][30] Company Strategy and Development Direction - IMAX is focused on increasing its global market share and ensuring that IMAX is the platform of choice for filmmakers, with a strategy to deliver films designed for IMAX screens [7][11] - The company is expanding its network with significant installations planned in key markets, including France, The Netherlands, and Japan, indicating a strong growth trajectory [13][14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's growth model, citing strong demand for IMAX systems and a robust film slate for 2026 and beyond [12][32] - The company anticipates continued growth in cash flow and profitability, supported by a strong capital position and strategic partnerships with exhibitors [31][30] Other Important Information - IMAX's recent agreement with Regal will expand its presence in Manhattan and LA, highlighting the company's commitment to growth in North America [13] - The company is also making progress in strengthening its capital structure with an expanded credit facility, increasing liquidity and reflecting confidence in its business momentum [31] Q&A Session Summary Question: Future of Film for IMAX - Management does not foresee a future where all films are film for IMAX, emphasizing the need for special content that demands such treatment [36][38] Question: Competitive Threat from PLF Screens - Management views the potential joint marketing of PLF screens by US theater chains as more of an opportunity to partner rather than a competitive threat, citing strong brand relationships and technology superiority [39][41] Question: Pricing Strategy - Management believes that the IMAX consumer is willing to pay a premium for a premium experience, and does not see lower pricing as a significant factor affecting demand [64][68] Question: Local Language Content - Local language content has increased to around 40% of box office, and management sees it as a key part of their content diversity strategy [54][56] Question: Cash Flow Conversion - Management expects cash flow to continue to grow, with positive dynamics driven by box office expansion and joint revenue sharing arrangements [30][100]

Core Insights - D-BOX Technologies Inc. is expanding its partnership with Cinemark Holdings, adding over 70 haptic-enabled screens across 25 theaters in the U.S. over the next 18 months, representing a nearly 25% increase in their market presence [1][2]. Company Overview - D-BOX has over 25 years of experience in creating haptic and immersive experiences, focusing on redefining theatrical entertainment through innovative technology [1][5]. - Cinemark Holdings, one of the largest theatrical exhibition companies globally, operates nearly 500 theaters and over 5,500 screens across the U.S. and South America, emphasizing superior sight and sound technology [4]. Expansion Details - The expansion will increase Cinemark's D-BOX presence to more than 500 auditoriums, solidifying its position as the exhibitor with the highest D-BOX penetration [2][3]. - This rollout is one of the largest multi-site expansions of D-BOX screens in recent years, indicating a significant investment in immersive entertainment [2]. Strategic Collaboration - The collaboration between D-BOX and Cinemark reflects a shared commitment to innovation and enhancing audience experiences, with a focus on delivering differentiated entertainment that drives engagement [3].

Core Insights - The CEO of Cinemark, Sean Gamble, expressed optimism about a box office recovery that began in April, highlighting Amazon MGM's commitment to theatrical releases [1][3] - The ongoing debate regarding theatrical windows was addressed, with Gamble supporting a 45-day window for most films [2][5] - Despite a widening loss of $39 million in Q1, revenue increased by 7% to $541 million, indicating a potential recovery in the industry [2][3] Industry Performance - The industry has historically performed well during economic uncertainty, with the North American box office growing in six of the last eight recessions [7] - The current box office recovery is attributed to strong content and a positive outlook from studios, including plans from Amazon MGM to release 14 to 16 films by 2027 [3][4] - The debate on theatrical windows is ongoing, with a consensus that a 45-day window may be beneficial for most films to build cultural relevance [5][6] Market Dynamics - M&A activity in the exhibition sector may increase as surviving theaters look for buyers, with the box office showing signs of recovery [3] - The industry remains resilient in the face of economic challenges, as consumers continue to seek affordable out-of-home entertainment options [8] - The impact of external factors, such as trade tariffs and economic growth, is acknowledged, but the industry is optimistic about navigating these challenges [6]

Core Viewpoint - AMC Entertainment is expected to report a quarterly loss of $0.56 per share, reflecting a year-over-year increase of 28.2%, with revenues projected at $874.53 million, down 8.1% from the previous year [1]. Group 1: Earnings Projections - Over the last 30 days, the consensus EPS estimate for AMC has been revised upward by 15.7%, indicating a collective reassessment by analysts [2]. - Changes in earnings projections are crucial for predicting investor reactions, as empirical studies show a strong correlation between earnings estimate trends and short-term stock price movements [3]. Group 2: Revenue Estimates - Analysts estimate 'Revenues- Food and beverage' to reach $294.23 million, representing a decline of 8.4% year-over-year [5]. - The 'Revenues- Other theatre' is projected at $91.87 million, indicating a year-over-year decrease of 7.9% [5]. - 'Revenues- Admissions' are expected to be $488.40 million, also suggesting a year-over-year change of -7.9% [5]. Group 3: Stock Performance - AMC Entertainment shares have increased by 0.4% over the past month, contrasting with a -0.5% change in the Zacks S&P 500 composite [6]. - With a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold), AMC is anticipated to closely follow overall market performance in the near term [6].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Cinemark's worldwide first quarter revenue was $541 million, with adjusted EBITDA of $36 million and an adjusted EBITDA margin of 6.7% [7][17] - Compared to the first quarter of 2022, adjusted EBITDA grew almost 45% despite inflationary cost pressures [7][17] - The company reported a net loss of $38.9 million, resulting in a loss per share of $0.32 [23] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. operations hosted 20.6 million guests, generating $207.6 million in domestic admissions revenue [18] - Average ticket price increased by 3% year over year to $10.8, while domestic concession revenue was $164.4 million, achieving a new all-time high per cap of $7.98, up 5% year over year [19][19] - International operations welcomed 16 million guests, with revenue growing 1% year over year to $123.6 million [20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - North American industry box office totaled approximately $1.5 billion, declining 12% compared to the same period in 2024 [5] - Cinemark exceeded year-over-year North American box office performance by 160 basis points and surpassed Latin American benchmarks by nearly 60 basis points [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to capitalize on the ongoing resurgence of content in the theatrical market while maintaining operational discipline [16] - Investments are focused on enhancing the entertainment experience, strengthening theaters, and developing operating capabilities [15][16] - The company plans to repay $460 million of convertible notes using cash on hand upon maturity in August [24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management remains optimistic about the industry's recovery trajectory, despite lingering headwinds from Hollywood strikes [5] - The second quarter has shown record-breaking results with the release of the Minecraft movie, indicating strong consumer enthusiasm for theatrical experiences [8][9] - The company has not seen any adverse effects from the macroeconomic environment on moviegoing, with continued strong performance in attendance and concession sales [78] Other Important Information - The company executed a $200 million share repurchase program, representing the first stock buyback in its history [16][26] - The company paid its first quarterly dividend since the pandemic, reflecting confidence in its financial position [15][28] Q&A Session Summary Question: Share buyback program and future plans - Management expressed satisfaction with the execution of the $200 million share buyback and indicated that future repurchase decisions will depend on various factors, including cash liquidity and market conditions [31][33][34] Question: Insights on Amazon and Apple Studios - Management is encouraged by Amazon's commitment to theatrical releases and is optimistic about Apple's upcoming projects, although Apple is still in the early phases of its long-term plans [42][45] Question: Market share and operating hours - Management discussed the potential to adjust operating hours to capture more attendance during high-demand periods, while also noting that capacity constraints could impact market share [68][70] Question: Consumer behavior and macroeconomic impact - Management has not observed any negative impact on moviegoing due to the macroeconomic environment, with strong attendance and concession sales continuing [78][80] Question: Concession costs and future expectations - Management indicated that higher concession costs were driven by a mix of merchandise and inflationary pressures, but does not expect this to be the new run rate going forward [82][84]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Cinemark's worldwide first quarter revenue was $541 million with adjusted EBITDA of $36 million and an adjusted EBITDA margin of 6.7% [6][16] - Compared to the first quarter of 2022, adjusted EBITDA grew almost 45% despite inflationary cost pressures [6][16] - The company reported a net loss of $38.9 million, resulting in a loss per share of $0.32 [23] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. operations generated $417.1 million in revenue with adjusted EBITDA of $20 million, yielding a 4.8% adjusted EBITDA margin [18] - International operations grew revenue by 1% year over year to $123.6 million, with adjusted EBITDA of $16.4 million and an adjusted EBITDA margin of 13.3% [20][21] - Domestic average ticket price increased by 3% year over year to $10.8, while domestic concession revenue was $164.4 million, achieving a new all-time high per cap of $7.98, up 5% year over year [18][19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - North American industry box office totaled approximately $1.5 billion, declining 12% compared to the same period in 2024 [4] - Cinemark's market share in the U.S. grew by 30 basis points year over year, maintaining gains in excess of 100 basis points compared to pre-pandemic levels [17] - International market share also saw strong gains, delivering over 200 basis points of growth versus Q1 of 2019 [19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Cinemark aims to capitalize on the ongoing resurgence of content in the theatrical market while maintaining operational discipline [15] - The company plans to invest in enhancing the entertainment experience, strengthening theater quality, and developing loyalty programs [14] - A $200 million share buyback program was executed to manage potential dilution related to convertible note settlements [15][25] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management remains optimistic about the industry's recovery trajectory, citing strong upcoming film releases and sustained consumer enthusiasm for theatrical experiences [4][8] - The company has not seen any adverse effects from the macroeconomic environment on moviegoing, with continued strong performance in attendance and concession sales [77][78] - Management expects to maintain a balanced approach to capital allocation while focusing on long-term growth opportunities [27] Other Important Information - The company paid its first quarterly dividend since the pandemic, reflecting confidence in its financial position [14] - Capital expenditures for 2025 are anticipated to be $225 million, focusing on maintaining and enhancing the global circuit [26] Q&A Session Summary Question: Share buyback program and future plans - Management expressed satisfaction with the execution of the $200 million share buyback and indicated that future repurchase decisions will depend on various factors including cash liquidity and market conditions [30][32] Question: Expectations from Amazon and Apple studios - Management is encouraged by Amazon's commitment to theatrical releases and optimistic about Apple's upcoming projects, noting that both studios are investing in their theatrical strategies [42][46] Question: Impact of flexible windows on box office - Management acknowledged ongoing discussions about theatrical windows and their impact on consumer behavior, emphasizing the need for a balance that maximizes revenue without harming attendance [58][60] Question: Concession costs and future expectations - Management noted that higher concession costs were driven by a mix of merchandise and inflationary pressures but do not expect this to be the new run rate going forward [81][82] Question: Market share and operating hours - Management discussed the potential to adjust operating hours to capture more attendance during peak demand periods, while also noting the challenges posed by capacity constraints [68][70]

Financial Performance & Guidance - IMAX reported Q1 2025 global box office (excluding China booking fee) of $281 million, and $298 million including it[97] - Q1 2025 total adjusted EBITDA margin was 42.7%[97] - The company's full-year 2025 guidance includes IMAX box office of $1.2 billion+, and 145-160 system installations[36] - IMAX has repurchased 19% of shares outstanding since 2020, amounting to $175 million[114, 124] Network Growth & Market Share - The IMAX network has a footprint of 1,738 systems[11] - The company has a contracted IMAX system backlog of 516 systems[11] - IMAX accounts for >50% of total global premium locations[38] - IMAX global box office market share has grown +40% since 2018 through Q1 2025[11, 13] Content & Strategy - There are a record 14+ Filmed For IMAX Hollywood titles expected in 2025[11, 13] - Q1 2025 IMAX Local Language box office is already 40% higher than FY 2024[83]