Madison Square Garden Entertainment (MSGE) - 2026 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For the fiscal second quarter, the company reported revenues of $460 million and adjusted operating income of $190 million, both reflecting double-digit percentage increases year-over-year [4][11] - Adjusted operating income increased by 16% compared to the prior year quarter, primarily due to increased revenues, partially offset by higher direct operating SG&A expenses [13] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Christmas Spectacular generated approximately $195 million in total revenue this season, with 215 paid performances, an increase from 200 performances last year [5][11] - Per-show revenue increased by a mid-single-digit percentage compared to fiscal 2025, driven by higher ticket yields and record levels of per caps on food, beverage, and merchandise [6][11] - The number of events across venues increased year-over-year, driven by growth in concerts, family shows, and marquee sporting events, although concerts at The Garden were down due to timing [7][12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Approximately 2.9 million guests attended over 475 events during the quarter, with a significant contribution from the Christmas Spectacular [5] - The company saw higher per-game revenues from the Knicks and Rangers, with a combined four more home games compared to the prior year quarter [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on optimizing its schedule, pricing, and marketing for productions like the Christmas Spectacular, indicating potential for future growth in show count and ticket pricing [20][21] - The company is actively booking a wide array of events, including concerts and marquee sporting events, to maintain momentum into the next fiscal year [9][10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in delivering robust growth in revenue and adjusted operating income for fiscal 2026, supported by strong consumer demand and successful events [4][15] - The company noted strong consumer demand trends, with exceptional performance in the Christmas Spectacular and sold-out concerts, indicating a positive outlook for the upcoming quarters [45] Other Important Information - The company had $157 million of unrestricted cash as of December 31, up from $30 million as of September 30, reflecting strong cash flow generation [14] - The company repurchased approximately 623,000 shares of Class A common stock for $25 million fiscal year to date, with $45 million remaining under the current buyback authorization [14] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on Christmas Spectacular performance and future growth - Management highlighted strong ticket demand and pricing, with room for increased show count and ticket pricing in future years [19][21] Question: Update on concert bookings trends - Management reported a successful first half of the year with increased bookings, particularly at The Garden, and strong visibility into fiscal 2027 [26][29] Question: Incremental revenue from Harry Styles residency - Management indicated that while not all 30 nights of the residency will be incremental, it will significantly contribute to concert growth [34] Question: Consumer demand trends and capital returns - Management noted strong consumer demand across events and indicated a focus on maintaining a strong balance sheet while exploring capital return opportunities [45][48] Question: Updates on Penn Station redevelopment - Management confirmed that the selection of a master developer is still on track for May 2026, with ongoing commitment to improving the area [51][53] Question: SG&A expenses and future outlook - Management explained elevated SG&A expenses due to nonrecurring items and higher labor costs, with expectations for normalization in the June quarter [58][59]