Core Insights - Fox Corporation is a significant player in the media industry with a diverse portfolio including cable, broadcast television, and streaming services [1] - The company reported a total revenue of $5.18 billion for the second quarter, reflecting a 2% year-over-year increase [2][6] - Tubi, Fox's streaming service, achieved a record quarterly revenue growth of 19% and reached EBITDA profitability for the second consecutive quarter [3][6] - Goldman Sachs set a price target of $80 for FOXA, indicating an 18.12% potential upside from its current trading price of $67.73 [2][6] - Fox has been actively returning capital to shareholders, repurchasing $1.8 billion worth of stock in the fiscal year to date, totaling $8.4 billion since 2019 [4] Financial Performance - The company experienced a 1% rise in companywide ad revenue and a notable 7% increase in cable advertising [2] - Despite fluctuations in stock price, FOXA's market capitalization is approximately $30.58 billion, with a trading volume of 6.17 million shares [5] Stock Performance - Currently, FOXA is priced at $67.73, having decreased by 3.61% or $2.54 [5] - Over the past year, the stock has seen a high of $76.39 and a low of $46.42 [5]

Core Insights - Fox Corporation exceeded earnings forecasts in Q2 of the fiscal year, driven by increased ad revenue from news networks and sports programs [1] - Total revenue reached $5.18 billion, marking a 2% year-over-year increase, with companywide ad revenue rising 1% and cable advertising increasing by 7% [1] Revenue and Advertising Performance - Tubi, Fox's ad-supported streaming service, achieved record quarterly revenue growth of 19% and maintained EBITDA profitability for the second consecutive quarter [2] - Fox News added approximately 200 new advertisers in the first half of the year, building on 350 new advertisers from the previous year, indicating strong demand for its content [5] - The advertising market for Fox News has been robust, with scatter pricing for the channel increasing by 46% to 47% [9] Viewership and Ratings - Fox News was the most-watched cable network in total day, producing the top 11 cable news programs [7] - Nielsen data shows Fox News outperforming competitors like MSNBC and CNN, and in some markets, it attracted larger audiences than major broadcast networks [8] - Fox Television's ratings were bolstered by live sports, with significant viewership for marquee events, including over 27 million viewers for a Game 7 of the World Series [10] Financial Metrics and Challenges - Despite revenue growth, net income fell to $229 million from $373 million year-over-year, and adjusted EBITDA decreased to $692 million from $781 million [15] - The decline in profit margins was attributed to higher amortization of sports programming rights, increased production costs, and elevated digital and marketing expenditures [15] - Following the earnings release, shares of Fox Corp dropped nearly 4%, although the stock has risen nearly 25% over the past year [16] Capital Management - Fox Corp repurchased $1.8 billion of stock in the fiscal year to date, bringing cumulative repurchases since 2019 to $8.4 billion, which is about 35% of shares outstanding [4]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenues for the second quarter reached $5.18 billion, a 2% increase from the prior year quarter [14] - Adjusted EBITDA was $692 million, down from $781 million in the prior year quarter due to higher expenses [15] - Net income attributable to stockholders was $229 million or $0.52 per share, compared to $373 million or $0.81 per share in the prior year [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Cable segment revenues were $2.28 billion with an Adjusted EBITDA of $687 million, both representing a 5% growth year-over-year [16] - Television segment reported revenues of $2.94 billion, with advertising revenues unchanged due to the absence of last year's political advertising [17] - Distribution revenue grew 4% during the quarter, with subscriber declines improving sequentially [6] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Advertising revenue grew 1% despite a difficult comparison to last year's political cycle, driven by strong linear pricing and robust revenue growth at Tubi [14] - FOX News Digital saw a 170% increase in social media views over the prior year [8] - Tubi achieved its most streamed quarter of all time, with total view time growing 27% year-over-year [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company emphasizes a strategy focused on live sports and news, alongside the growth of Tubi and FOX One [11] - FOX One has exceeded expectations with strong consumer engagement, particularly among sports fans [39] - The company is committed to maintaining a strong balance sheet and delivering sustained growth and shareholder value [12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted robust advertising market conditions and expects continued strength in political advertising as the midterm elections approach [25] - The company is optimistic about the upcoming FIFA Men's World Cup and its potential profitability [27] - Management expressed confidence in the strategic direction and the ability to offset increased costs in the NFL contracts [33] Other Important Information - The company repurchased an additional $1.8 billion in shares, bringing the total cumulative amount repurchased to $8.4 billion since the buyback program began [19] - A semiannual dividend of $0.28 per share was announced, contributing to a total cumulative cash return to shareholders of approximately $10.4 billion [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the standout performance in cable advertising? - Management highlighted a robust advertising market for Fox News, with a significant increase in new advertisers and strong scatter pricing [25] Question: How do you plan to offset increased costs in the NFL? - Management indicated that they can offset some costs by balancing their sports portfolio and expect a robust political advertising cycle to benefit them [33] Question: What is the performance outlook for FOX One? - Management reported that FOX One has exceeded expectations, with a significant portion of its audience being sports fans, and they are on track to meet subscriber benchmarks [39] Question: Can you elaborate on the improvement in subscriber declines? - Management noted a 6.3% decline in subscribers, which is an improvement, and attributed it to the emergence of skinny bundles in the cable universe [45] Question: What are the growth drivers for Tubi? - Management stated that Tubi's growth is driven by a 27% increase in total view time and strong advertising trends, particularly among younger audiences [48]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenues for the second quarter reached $5.18 billion, a 2% increase from the prior year quarter [14] - Adjusted EBITDA was $692 million, down from $781 million in the prior year quarter, due to higher expenses [15] - Net income attributable to stockholders was $229 million or $0.52 per share, compared to $373 million or $0.81 per share in the prior year [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Cable segment revenues were $2.28 billion with an Adjusted EBITDA of $687 million, both representing a 5% growth year-over-year [16] - Television segment reported revenues of $2.94 billion, with advertising revenues unchanged due to the absence of last year's political advertising [17] - Distribution revenue grew 4% during the quarter, with subscriber declines improving sequentially [6] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Advertising revenue grew 1% despite tough comparisons to last year's political cycle, driven by strong linear pricing and robust revenue growth at Tubi [14] - FOX News Digital saw a 170% increase in social media views over the prior year, indicating strong audience engagement [9] - Tubi achieved its most streamed quarter ever, with total view time growing 27% year-over-year [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company emphasizes a strategy focused on live sports and news, alongside the growth of Tubi and FOX One, to reinforce its leadership position [12] - FOX One is positioned as a premier destination for live sports and news streaming, with targeted marketing to cord-cutters [6] - The company is committed to maintaining a strong balance sheet and delivering sustained growth and shareholder value through share buybacks and dividends [19][20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted a robust advertising market and expects continued strength in political advertising as the midterm elections approach [25] - The company anticipates profitability from the upcoming FIFA Men's World Cup, driven by strong advertiser interest [26] - Management expressed confidence in the strategic direction and the ability to connect with audiences across various platforms [12] Other Important Information - The company repurchased an additional $1.8 billion in shares, bringing the total repurchased to $8.4 billion since the buyback program began [19] - A semiannual dividend of $0.28 per share was announced, contributing to a total cumulative cash return to shareholders of approximately $10.4 billion [19] Q&A Session Questions and Answers Question: Can you discuss cable advertising performance and expectations for the political cycle? - The advertising market for Fox News has been robust, with 200 new advertisers added this half, reflecting strong demand [24] - The company expects to benefit from a robust political advertising cycle, particularly at local stations [25] Question: How does the company plan to offset increased costs associated with the NFL? - The company is confident in its ability to offset costs by balancing its sports portfolio and leveraging its strong content [30] Question: What is the performance of FOX One and its impact on the P&L? - FOX One has exceeded expectations, with a significant portion of its audience being sports fans, and the platform's costs are recorded in the corporate segment [38][40] Question: Can you elaborate on the improvement in subscriber declines and the drivers behind it? - The subscriber decline improved to 6.3%, driven by the emergence of skinny bundles in the cable universe [45] - The company is optimistic about the impact of skinny bundles on subscriber retention [46] Question: What are the growth drivers for Tubi's advertising revenue? - Tubi's revenue growth of 19% was driven by a 27% increase in total view time and strong advertiser demand [48]

Core Insights - Fox Corp. exceeded revenue expectations for the October-to-December quarter, reporting total revenue of $5.18 billion, a 2% increase from the previous year [1] - Earnings per share were reported at 52 cents, matching Wall Street expectations, with an adjusted figure of 81 cents [1] Revenue Breakdown - Advertising revenue increased by 1%, supported by higher pricing in sports and news, despite challenges from the upcoming presidential cycle [2] - Distribution revenue rose by 4%, primarily due to a 5% growth in the Cable Network Programming unit [2] - Television division revenue slightly decreased to $2.937 billion, a notable decline given the typical strength of the fall quarter [3] Expense and Profitability Analysis - EBITDA in the Television division fell to $143 million from $205 million in the prior year, attributed to higher expenses related to sports programming rights and production costs [5] - Distribution revenues saw a modest increase of 1%, driven by higher average rates at owned television stations and increased fees from third-party affiliates [4] Management Commentary - CEO Lachlan Murdoch emphasized that the results reflect a differentiated strategy and high-quality execution, showcasing the strength of the company's leadership brands across various sectors [6]

Core Insights - Major brands are returning to Fox News, which has positively impacted the stock prices of its parent company, indicating a validation of contrarian investment strategies in the entertainment sector [1] Group 1 - The return of big brands to Fox News is contributing to a significant increase in the shares of its parent company [1] - This trend suggests a shift in market sentiment towards the future of entertainment, countering previous skepticism [1]

Core Insights - Rupert Murdoch's News Corp. is launching a West Coast version of the New York Post, named The California Post, in early 2026, marking a significant moment in Murdoch's long career [2] - David Ellison, CEO of Paramount Skydance, is positioning himself as a major media consolidator with a $108 billion bid for Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), reflecting a modern approach to media empire building similar to Murdoch's [3][5] Group 1: David Ellison's Media Strategy - Ellison's aggressive deal-making includes a recent $8.4 billion merger of Paramount and Skydance, and he has made significant moves in Hollywood, such as acquiring creators from Netflix and securing UFC broadcasting rights [4][5] - The competition between Paramount and Netflix for control of WBD represents a significant consolidation effort in Hollywood, echoing Murdoch's historical media strategies [5] - If successful, Ellison's acquisition of WBD would give him control over major media properties, including CNN, HBO, and DC, potentially reshaping the media landscape [6][15] Group 2: Implications for CNN and News Media - Ellison has indicated plans for "sweeping" changes to CNN if he gains control, suggesting a shift in editorial direction that could align with a more centrist approach to news [6][7] - His vision for a scaled news service aims to appeal to a broad audience, reminiscent of Fox News' strategy to engage viewers it believes are underserved [7] - The potential influence of Ellison's ownership over WBD could mirror Murdoch's impact on American journalism, as both seek to consolidate media power [15][16] Group 3: Deal Dynamics and Future Outlook - Ellison's pursuit of WBD has involved multiple proposals, culminating in a $30 per share cash offer, demonstrating his commitment to the acquisition despite challenges [11][12] - The upcoming deadline for WBD to inform shareholders about its recommendation on Paramount's offer is set for December 22, which could significantly alter the competitive landscape in Hollywood and beyond [17]

Core Insights - Fox Corporation achieved record advertising revenue in the first quarter of fiscal year 2026, totaling $3.74 billion, a 5% increase from the previous year [1][6][12] - The company reported a significant rise in advertising revenue, reaching over $1.4 billion, marking the highest in Fox News Media history [5][10] - Fox's cable networks saw advertising revenue increase to $345 million, up from $321 million in the same quarter last year, driven by higher news pricing [6][10] Advertising Revenue Performance - Advertising revenue grew by 6% during the quarter, despite the absence of last year's political revenue, with strong performance in news, sports, entertainment, and Tubi [2][10] - The total revenue for Fox's cable network programming was $1.66 billion, reflecting a 4% increase from the prior year [6][12] - Fox News Channel maintained a leading position in viewership, outperforming competitors ABC, CBS, and NBC in weekday primetime viewers year to date [7][10] Share Repurchase and Stock Performance - Fox Corporation announced a $1.5 billion accelerated share repurchase transaction, which includes $700 million of Class A Common Stock and $800 million of Class B Common Stock [11][12] - The company's shares have increased over 33% this year, significantly outperforming the S&P 500's 16% rise [12]

Core Insights - Fox reported a revenue increase of 4.9% to $3.74 billion in its most recent quarter, surpassing Wall Street estimates of $3.57 billion [1][15] - The company experienced a 6% rise in advertising revenues for the three months ending September 30 [1] - Fox's profit decreased to $599 million, or $1.32 per share, down from $827 million, or $1.78 per share, in the same quarter last year [5] Revenue Breakdown - Fox's cable business, which includes Fox News, Fox Business, and Fox Sports 1, generated $1.66 billion in revenue, reflecting a 4.1% increase from the previous year [3] - The television division reported a revenue increase of 5% to $2.05 billion [4] - The Tubi streaming service, news division, and NFL offerings were significant contributors to advertising revenue [3] Profit and Earnings - Excluding one-time items, Fox reported earnings of $1.51 per share, exceeding analyst expectations of $1.11 [9] - Net income was reported at $609 million, down from $832 million the previous year [5] Strategic Developments - Fox launched its new streaming service, Fox One, which combines programming from Fox News and Fox Sports for $19.99 a month, with adoption exceeding expectations [13] - The company announced a $1.5 billion share buyback program, intending to repurchase $700 million of Class A common stock and $800 million of Class B common stock [13][14]

Core Insights - Fox News Media has attracted 350 new national advertisers in 2025, resulting in the highest ad revenue quarter in the company's history [2] - Fox News maintained strong ratings, averaging 3.281 million viewers in weekday prime, leading all cable and broadcast networks [3] - The network's prime time audience in October was 2.3 million viewers, while competitors CNN and MSNBC reached record lows [4] Advertising Performance - Ad revenue for Fox News increased by 7% to $345 million, while the Fox broadcast network and local television stations saw a 6% rise to $1.07 billion [7] - The company charges advertisers less than ABC, CBS, and NBC, making it an attractive option for new advertisers [5] - Many new national advertisers are increasing their spending, contributing to a positive outlook for the company [6] Financial Results - Fox Corp exceeded Wall Street expectations for the fiscal first quarter, reporting adjusted earnings of $1.51 per share and total revenue of $3.7 billion, surpassing the consensus of $1.06 EPS and $3.58 billion revenue [6]