Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q2 2022, DallasNews Corporation reported a net loss of $2.4 million or $0.45 per share, compared to a net loss of $1.5 million in Q2 2021 [7] - Total net revenue for the quarter was $37.6 million, down from $38.7 million year-over-year, primarily due to an $800,000 reduction in print advertising revenue [9] - Adjusted operating loss was $1 million, which is $500,000 greater than the $600,000 loss for the same period last year [8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Circulation revenue increased by $200,000 compared to Q2 2021, driven by growth in digital circulation revenue [10] - The Dallas Morning News had 62,688 digital-only subscribers, an 18.4% year-over-year increase, while total subscribers decreased to 146,065 from 146,564 [10][11] - Total adjusted operating expenses were $43.9 million, an improvement of $1.7 million from last year, mainly due to savings in distribution and compensation [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Newsprint prices averaged $708 per metric ton in Q2 2022, a 31% increase from $544 per metric ton in Q2 2021 [19] - Average gas prices rose from $2.65 per gallon in Q2 2021 to $4.12 per gallon in Q2 2022, reflecting a 55% increase [19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to become a sustainably profitable digital-first entity, focusing on enhancing its digital marketing services through Medium Giant [15][16] - There is a strategic shift to optimize pricing in response to rising price sensitivity in the market [18] - The company is exploring capital allocation options, including a special dividend and voluntary pension contributions [20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the company's progress and the potential for continued success despite external market conditions [7][13] - The timeline to profitability is expected to take multiple years, with ongoing investments in the business to improve quality and content [52][59] - Management is monitoring supply chain issues affecting advertising categories, particularly automotive advertising, which has seen a significant decline [61] Other Important Information - Cash on the balance sheet was $27 million as of June 30, increasing to $30 million by July 22 [12] - The company expects full payment of a $22.4 million note receivable from Charter Holdings, which will enhance its cash position [20] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the timeline to profitability? - Management indicated that returning to sustainable profitability will take time, potentially several years [52][63] Question: What magnitude could shareholders expect for a special dividend? - The size of a potential special dividend will depend on the cash balance needed for future investments and operational needs [55] Question: Why wait until the September Board meeting to make decisions on capital allocation? - Management stated that while the September meeting is scheduled, discussions on capital allocation will occur as soon as the payment is received [27][28]
DallasNews (DALN) - 2022 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript