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  • Time Warner numbers up on higher subscription, content fees

    Time Warner numbers up on higher subscription, content fees

    BENGALURU: Time Warner Inc (Time Warner) reported increase in revenue and operating income due to growth across these parameters by all its businesses-Turner, Home Box Office (HBO) and Warner Bros-for the year and quarter ended 31 December 2017 (FY 2017, the year under review; Q4 2018, the quarter under review). Time Warner’s total revenue for FY 2017 increased by 6.7 per cent to USD 31,271 million from USD 29,318 million in FY 2016. Total revenue expanded by 9.1 per cent year-over year (y-o-y) for Q4 2017 to USD 8,611 million from USD 7,891 million in Q4 2016. Operating income increased by 4.9 per cent in FY 2017 to USD 7,920 million from USD 7,547 million in FY 2016. Operating income in Q4 2018 increased by 12.8 per cent yoy to USD 1,907 million.

    The company says in its investor release that revenue in FY 2017 benefitted from increases of 13 per cent (USD752 million) in subscription revenue and 11 per cent (USD74 million) in content and other revenue, partially offset by a decrease of 2 per cent (USD109 million) in advertising revenue. The increase in subscription revenue was due to higher domestic rates and growth at Turner’s international networks, partially offset by lower domestic subscribers. Content and other revenue increased due to higher licensing revenue. The decline in advertising revenue was primarily due to lower delivery at Turner’s domestic entertainment networks and the comparison to Turner’s networks airing the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball National Championship and Final Four games in the prior year, partially offset by increase in Turner’s news businesses and growth in its international networks.

    Operating income in FY 2017 improved due to the increase in revenue, partially offset by higher expenses, including increased programming and marketing costs. Programming costs grew by 12 per cent primarily due to higher costs related to the first year of Turner’s new agreement with the NBA. The increase in marketing costs was mainly to support original series on Turner’s domestic entertainment networks.

    Revenue in Q4 2017 grew due to due to increases of 14 per cent (USD 204 million) in subscription revenue, 32 per cent (USD 55 million) in content and other revenue and 2 per cent (USD 26 million) in advertising revenue. Subscription revenue benefitted from higher domestic rates and growth at Turner’s international networks, partially offset by lower domestic subscribers. Content and other revenue increased primarily due to higher licensing revenue. The increase in advertising revenue was due to higher revenue associated with MLB postseason games and growth at Turner’s international networks, partially offset by a decline at Turner’s news businesses related to the comparison to last year’s US presidential election.

    Increase of operating income in Q4 2017 reflected revenue growth partially offset by higher expenses, including increased programming costs. Programming expenses grew by 10 per cent mainly due to higher costs associated with airing MLB post-season games.

    Time Warner chairman and chief executive officer Jeff Bewkes said: “We had another very successful year in 2017, achieving our financial goals thanks to the great creative and programming excellence across Time Warner. All three of our operating divisions increased revenue and profits while also investing to capitalize on the growing demand for the most creative and compelling content as well as new ways to deliver it to audiences worldwide. Warner Bros. had its best year ever at the global box office with its films grossing over USD5 billion in box office receipts, led by hits like Wonder Woman, It and Dunkirk, which received eight Academy Award nominations, including for Best Picture. Warner Bros. also remains the number 1 supplier of television shows for the broadcast networks, and saw continued growth in games with franchise releases Middle-earth: Shadow of War and Injustice 2.”

  • Time Warner revenues, net income up in first quarter

    BENGALURU: Time Warner Inc., (Time Warner) reported growth in revenue across all its segments – Turner, Home Box Office (HBO) and Warner Bros in the quarter ended 31 March 2017 (Q1-17, current quarter) as compared to the corresponding year ago quarter (y-o-y). Reported total revenue in Q1-17 was $ 7,735 million 5,8 percent more than  in Q1-16, at $7,308 million. Net Income attributable to Time Warner shareholders increased 17.3 percent y-o-y to $1,424 million in the current quarter from $1,214 million in Q1-16.

    Time Warner chairman and CEO Jeff Bewkes said: “We’re off to a strong start to 2017, as we continue to benefit from the investments we’re making in the best content while also developing new revenue streams that will drive growth and meet consumer demand for great experiences built around their favorite programming and brands. Warner Bros. delighted audiences in both film and television, with global hits in Kong: Skull Island and The LEGO Batman Movie and more series across broadcast for the current season than any other studio. Turner had another successful airing of the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament across platforms, while CNN grew its total day ratings by 21 percent among adults 25-54, and remained the leader in digital news. Together, Turner and Warner Bros. also launched our new Boomerang-branded SVOD service, adding to our growing portfolio of products that are reaching consumers directly.”

    “Home Box Office shined in the quarter highlighted by our limited series Big Little Lies, which was both a critical and cultural breakout. Last Week Tonight with John Oliver is having its most-watched season to date, and we recently had the much anticipated returns of Silicon Valley and Veep. Looking ahead, we remain on track, pending completion of regulatory reviews and receipt of consents, to close our merger with AT&T Inc. before the end of 2017. We remain excited about the potential for this combination to accelerate the pace of innovation in our businesses,” Bewkes continued.

    Turner

    Revenues increased 6.3 percent ($182 million) to $3,088 million, due to increases of 12 percent ($175 million) in Subscription revenues and 16 percent ($29 million) in Content and other revenues, partially offset by a decline of 2 percent ($22 million) in Advertising revenues. The company says that Subscription revenues benefited from higher domestic rates and growth at Turner’s international networks, partially offset by lower domestic subscribers. Content and other revenues increased due to higher domestic licensing revenues. The decline in Advertising revenues was primarily due to lower delivery at certain domestic networks, partially offset by increases at Turner’s sports and news businesses and growth at Turner’s international networks.

    Operating Income decreased 5.6 percent ($69 million) to $1,170 million. The growth in revenues was more than offset by higher expenses mainly due to increased programming costs. Programming expenses increased 17 percent primarily due to higher sports costs related to the first year of Turner’s new agreement with the NBA and higher original programming costs.

    HBO

    HBO revenues increased 4 percent ($62 million) to $1.6 billion, due to an increase of 5 percent ($66 million) in Subscription revenues, partially offset by a decline of 1 percent ($4 million) in Content and other revenues. Subscription revenues increased due to higher domestic rates and subscribers and international growth. The decrease in Content and other revenues was primarily due to lower home entertainment revenues, partially offset by higher licensing revenues.

    Operating Income increased 22 percent ($106 million) to $583 million, reflecting the growth in revenues and lower selling, general and administrative, programming and distribution expenses says that company. Programming costs decreased 2 percent, reflecting lower original programming expenses related to a reduction in amortization resulting from using a longer estimated utilization period for original programming beginning in the second quarter of 2016, partially offset by higher acquired theatrical programming expenses.

    Warner Bros

    Revenues increased 8.2 percent ($256 million) to $3.4 billion, primarily due to higher television and theatrical revenues partially offset by lower videogames revenues. Television revenues increased primarily due to higher domestic licensing revenues related to certain library series. Theatrical revenues grew due to an increased number and the mix of box office releases, which included Kong: Skull Island and The LEGO Batman Movie, as well as higher home entertainment revenues primarily related to the release of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them and higher carryover revenue. Videogames revenues declined due to a fewer number and the mix of releases in the current year period and lower carryover revenue.

    Operating Income increased 15.1 percent ($64 million) to $488 million, due to the increase in revenues, partially offset by higher associated theatrical and television costs of revenues and print and advertising expenses.

  • Time Warner shareholders approve merger with AT&T

    MUMBAI: Time Warner Inc. shareholders voted to adopt the merger agreement between AT&T Inc. and Time Warner Inc., with 78 per cent of the outstanding shares of common stock voting in favor; and of the shares voted, 99 per cent were cast in favor of the proposal. Having obtained shareholder approval of the transaction, and with regulatory review of the deal underway, the company continues to expect the transaction to close before yearend 2017.

    Time Warner, a global leader in media and entertainment with businesses in television networks and film and TV entertainment, uses its industry-leading operating scale and brands to create, package and deliver high-quality content worldwide on a multi-platform basis.

    Time Warner Inc. chairman and CEO Jeff Bewkes commented: “On behalf of our board of directors and management team, I’m pleased that the Company’s shareholders have approved the proposal to combine with AT&T. In addition to providing shareholders with immediate value and the ability to participate in the upside of the combined company, the deal advances our long-term operational strategy. By combining Time Warner’s leading brands and video content with AT&T’s distribution, we will accelerate our ability to innovate, develop and deliver the next generation of video services, making our content even more valuable to consumers and business partners.”

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  • Time Warner FY-16 and fourth quarter numbers up

    Time Warner FY-16 and fourth quarter numbers up

    BENGALURU: Time Warner Inc. (Time Warner) reported higher numbers across all divisions and important parameters for the year (FY-16, current quarter) and the quarter (Q4-16, current quarter) ended 31 December 2016 as compared to the corresponding year ago periods.  Warner Bros, Turner and Home Box Office (HBO) all reported increase in revenues and operating incomes. The two major blips were a 1.6 percent (US19 million) decline in advertising revenue in Q4-16 to $1,187 million from$1,206 million in Q4-15; reduction in Warner Bros Videogames and other revenues for both FY-16 and Q4-16.

    Time Warner’s total revenues in FY-16 increased 4.3 percent to $29,318 million from $28,118 million reported for FY-15, while Q4-16 revenues increased 11.5 percent to $7,891 million from $7,079 million. Time Warner’s total operating income in FY-16 increased 9.9 percent to $7,547 million from $6,865 million in QFY-15. The company’s total operating for Q4-16 increased 22 percent to $1,691 million as compared to $1,386 million in Q4-15.

    Time Warner’s total adjusted operating income in FY-16 increased 9.8 percent to $7,601 million from $6,923 million in QFY-15. The company’s total operating for Q4-16 increased 25.2 percent to $1,759 million as compared to $1,405 million in Q4-15.

    Time Warner chairman and CEO Jeff Bewkes said, “We had another very successful year in 2016, demonstrating once more Time Warner’s ability to deliver strong financial performance alongside creative and programming excellence. All our operating divisions increased revenue and profits while also making investments to capitalize on the growing demand for the very best video content and new ways to deliver it to audiences around the world. Warner Bros. is once again the #1 supplier of television shows for the broadcast networks, and had its second-best year ever at the global box office, nearing $5 billion in receipts with such hits as Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice, Suicide Squad and Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.”

    Bewkes continued, “Home Box Office again stood apart with its combination of the biggest Hollywood hit movies and best original programming — receiving more primetime Emmy Awards in 2016 than any other network for the 15th consecutive year and launching Westworld, which is produced by Warner Bros. and is the most-watched new series in HBO’s history. We’re also really pleased with the growth of HBO’s domestic OTT product, and we expanded HBO’s international OTT footprint with launches in Spain, Brazil and Argentina in 2016. Turner continued to strengthen its leadership with TBS, TNT and Adult Swim all ranking among ad-supported cable’s top five networks in primetime among adults 18-49 for the year. TBS was the #1 ad-supported entertainment cable network on the strength of great sports and a bold new lineup of originals, including Full Frontal with Samantha Bee, and CNN was the #1 news network among adults 18-49 in primetime and the #1 digital news destination in 2016. The deal to be acquired by AT&T Inc., which we announced in October 2016, will accelerate our efforts to spur innovation in the media industry and further strengthen our businesses. We remain on track to close the transaction later this year.”

    Warner Bros

    Warner Bros revenues for FY-16 were essentially flat at $13,037 million (12,992 million in FY-15). The company says that this reflects higher theatrical and television revenues offset by lower videogames revenues and the impact of foreign exchange rates. Theatrical revenues increased primarily due to the box office releases of Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice, Suicide Squad and Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. Television revenues grew primarily due to increased production. Videogames revenues declined as the prior year benefited from the releases of Mortal Kombat X and Batman: Arkham Knight.

    Warner Bros Operating Income in FY-16 increased 22 percent ($318 million) to $1,734 million from $1,416 million in FY-15 as increased theatrical contributions and a $90 million gain on the April 2016 sale of Flixster more than offset the impact from lower videogames revenues.

    Warner Bros Revenues increased 17 percent ($563 million) to $3,868 million from $3,305 million in Q4-15 which Time Warner says was mainly due to higher theatrical revenues, which benefited from the releases of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them and The Accountant, and higher television revenues, primarily due to higher licensing revenues and increased production.

    Warner Bros operating Income increased 57 percent ($208 million) to $574 million in Q4-16 from $366 million in Q4-15 primarily due to the increase in revenues, partially offset by higher associated costs of revenues.

    Turner

    Turner revenues in FY-16 increased 7 percent ($768 million) to $11,364 million from $10,596 million in FY-15, benefiting from increases of 12 percent ($630 million) in Subscription revenues and 3 percent ($126 million) in Advertising revenues.

    The company says that the increase in Subscription revenues was due to higher domestic rates and growth at Turner’s international networks, partially offset by the impact of lower domestic subscribers and foreign exchange rates. Advertising revenues benefited from domestic growth and local currency growth at Turner’s international networks, partially offset by the impact of foreign exchange rates. Domestic advertising revenues grew primarily due to Turner’s news business and sports business, including the 2016 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball National Championship game, partially offset by lower delivery at certain entertainment networks.

    Turner Operating Income increased 7 percent ($285 million) to $4,372 million in FY-16 from $4,087 million in Fy-15 due to the increase in revenues partially offset by higher expenses, including increased programming and marketing costs. Programming costs grew 5 percent primarily due to higher sports costs and increases at Turner’s news business related to its coverage of the 2016 US Presidential election. The increase in marketing costs was primarily associated with new original series related to the TBS and TNT rebrands.

    Turner’s revenues in Q4-16 increased 6.7 percent ($177 million) to $2,838 million from $2,661 million in Q4-15, due to an increase of 14 percent ($182 million) in Subscription revenues and 9 percent ($14 million) in Content and other revenues, partially offset by a decrease of 2 percent ($19 million) in Advertising revenues.

    The company says that Subscription revenues benefited from higher domestic rates and growth at Turner’s international networks, partially offset by the impact of lower domestic subscribers. Content and other revenues increased primarily due to higher licensing revenues. Advertising revenues decreased due to declines at Turner’s international networks, partially due to foreign exchange rates. Domestic advertising was flat with growth at Turner’s news business offset by lower delivery at certain entertainment networks and lower revenues associated with the MLB postseason games.

    Turners Operating Income in Q4-16 increased 8.2 percent ($64 million) to $841 million from $777 million in Q4-15, reflecting revenue growth partially offset by higher expenses, including increased marketing costs primarily due to new original series. Programming expenses were essentially flat.

    Home Box Office (HBO)

    HBO revenues in FY-16 increased 5 percent ($275 million) to $5,890 million from $5,615 million in FY-15, due to increases of 5 percent ($255 million) in Subscription revenues and 2 percent ($20 million) in Content and other revenues. Subscription revenues grew primarily due to higher domestic rates and international growth. The increase in Content and other revenues primarily reflects higher international licensing revenues, partially offset by lower domestic licensing revenues.

    Operating Income in FY-16 increased 2.1 percent ($39 million) to $1,917 million from $1,878 million, reflecting higher revenues partially offset by increased expenses, including higher programming and restructuring and severance costs. Programming costs grew 7 percent, primarily reflecting increased original programming costs, partially offset by a reduction in amortization resulting from a longer estimated utilization period for original programming.

    HBO Revenues increased 5.6 percent ($79 million) to $1,491 million in Q4-16 from $1,412 million, due to increases of 5 percent ($64 million) in Subscription revenues and 7 percent ($15 million) in Content and other revenues. The company says that Subscription revenues increased due to higher domestic rates and international growth. The increase in Content and other revenues primarily reflects higher home entertainment revenues, partially offset by lower international licensing revenues.

    Operating Income increased 9.2 percent ($36 million) to $429 million in Q4-16 from $393 million in Q4-15, due to the increase in revenues partially offset by higher expenses, including increased distribution expenses related to the timing of home video releases. Programming expenses decreased 2 percent mainly due to lower programming charges, partially offset by increased original programming costs.

  • Q3-16: Time Warner revenue up 9.2 percent

    Q3-16: Time Warner revenue up 9.2 percent

    BENGALURU: Time Warner Inc., (Time Warner) reported 9.2 percent year-over-year (y-o-y) growth in revenue for the third quarter ended 30 September 2016 (Q3-16, current quarter).

    Time Warner reported total revenue of $7,167 million for the current quarter versus $6,564 million in the corresponding year ago quarter. Among its three divisions – Turner, Home Box Office, and Warner Bros, Turner reported 8.8 percent y-o-y increase in revenue of $2,610 million in Q3-16 vis-à-vis $2,398 million in Q3-15. HBO revenue grew 4.3 percent y-o-y in the current quarter to $1,426 million from$1,367 million, while Warner Bros revenue increased 6.6 percent y-o-y to $3,402 million from $3,190 million.

    Operating Income increased 9.8 percent y-o-y to $2,014 million in Q3-16 from $1,834 million. Adjusted Operating Income increased 12.4 to $2,070 million from $1,842 million, which the company says was due to increases at all operating divisions and lower intercompany eliminations. Revenues included the unfavourable impact of foreign exchange rates of approximately $55 million in the quarter.

    Breakup of numbers

    Turner

    A 12.4 percent y-o-y) increase in subscription revenue helped boost Turner revenue, while Advertising (ad) revenue increased 1.2 percent y-o-y during the current quarter.  Time Warner’s Subscription revenue in Q3-16 was $1,480 million as against $1,317 million in the corresponding year ago quarter. The division’s ad revenue in the current quarter was $996 million, while it was $980 million in Q3-15.

    Turner’s operating income increased 8.4 percent y-o-y in Q3-16 to $1,612 million from $1,072 million in Q3-15.

    Time Warner says that Subscription revenues increased due to higher domestic rates and growth at Turner’s international networks, partially offset by the impact of lower domestic subscribers and foreign exchange rates. Advertising revenues benefited from growth at Turner’s domestic news business, partially offset by lower delivery at certain domestic entertainment networks. International advertising was essentially flat with local currency growth offset by the impact of foreign exchange rates. Content and other revenues increased due to higher international licensing revenues.

    HBO

    HBO revenues increased on account of a 5.2 percent y-o-y increase in subscription revenue in Q3-16 to $1,262 million from $1,200 million. Content and other revenue declined 1.8 percent y-o-y in the current quarter to $164 million from $167 million.

    HBO’s operating income in Q3-16 increased 2.1 percent y-o-y to $530 million from $519 million.

    The company says that Subscription revenues increased due to higher domestic rates and international growth. The decrease in Content and other revenues was due to lower domestic licensing revenues, partially offset by higher international licensing revenues.

    Warner Bros

    Warner Bros revenues increased due to a 44.9 percent y-o-y gain in its Theatrical product to $1,605 million in Q3-16 from $1,108 million. This gain was offset by a 2.1 percent y-o-y decline in Warner’s Television product to $1,430 million from #1,460 million and a 41 percent decline in its ‘Videogames and other’ revenue to $367 million from$672 million.

    The company says that Theatrical revenues increased due to the box office releases of Suicide Squad, The Legend of Tarzan, Sully and Lights Out. Videogames revenues declined due to the comparison to the launch ofLEGO Dimensions and carryover revenues from Mortal Kombat X in the prior year quarter.

    Warner Operating Income increased 11.2 percent ($43 million) y-o-y in the current quarter to $428 million from $385 million, due to the increase in revenues, partially offset by higher costs of revenues associated with the mix of film releases.

    Company speak

    Time Warner chairman and CEO Jeff Bewkes said, “We had a strong third quarter, which keeps us on track to exceed our original 2016 outlook and underscores our leadership in creating and distributing the very best content. In television, HBO took home more Primetime Emmy Awards than any other network for the 15th consecutive year and Time Warner’s divisions won a total of 40 Emmys, more than any other company. CNN’s standout election coverage made it the #1 news network in primetime among adults 18-49 for the fourth consecutive quarter and Turner’s momentum doesn’t stop there. Year-to-date, TBS, TNT and Adult Swim are three of the top five ad-supported cable networks in primetime among adults 18-49. In film, Warner Bros. had a strong quarter led by Suicide Squad and has the #1 release of the fall in Sully, while anticipation is off the charts for J.K. Rowling’s Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, which hits the big screen on November 18.”

    Bewkes continued, “The agreement we announced on October 22 to be acquired by AT&T Inc. represents a great outcome for our shareholders and an excellent opportunity to drive long-term value well into the future. Combining with AT&T is the natural next step in the evolution of our business and allows us to significantly accelerate our most important strategies.”

  • Q3-16: Time Warner revenue up 9.2 percent

    Q3-16: Time Warner revenue up 9.2 percent

    BENGALURU: Time Warner Inc., (Time Warner) reported 9.2 percent year-over-year (y-o-y) growth in revenue for the third quarter ended 30 September 2016 (Q3-16, current quarter).

    Time Warner reported total revenue of $7,167 million for the current quarter versus $6,564 million in the corresponding year ago quarter. Among its three divisions – Turner, Home Box Office, and Warner Bros, Turner reported 8.8 percent y-o-y increase in revenue of $2,610 million in Q3-16 vis-à-vis $2,398 million in Q3-15. HBO revenue grew 4.3 percent y-o-y in the current quarter to $1,426 million from$1,367 million, while Warner Bros revenue increased 6.6 percent y-o-y to $3,402 million from $3,190 million.

    Operating Income increased 9.8 percent y-o-y to $2,014 million in Q3-16 from $1,834 million. Adjusted Operating Income increased 12.4 to $2,070 million from $1,842 million, which the company says was due to increases at all operating divisions and lower intercompany eliminations. Revenues included the unfavourable impact of foreign exchange rates of approximately $55 million in the quarter.

    Breakup of numbers

    Turner

    A 12.4 percent y-o-y) increase in subscription revenue helped boost Turner revenue, while Advertising (ad) revenue increased 1.2 percent y-o-y during the current quarter.  Time Warner’s Subscription revenue in Q3-16 was $1,480 million as against $1,317 million in the corresponding year ago quarter. The division’s ad revenue in the current quarter was $996 million, while it was $980 million in Q3-15.

    Turner’s operating income increased 8.4 percent y-o-y in Q3-16 to $1,612 million from $1,072 million in Q3-15.

    Time Warner says that Subscription revenues increased due to higher domestic rates and growth at Turner’s international networks, partially offset by the impact of lower domestic subscribers and foreign exchange rates. Advertising revenues benefited from growth at Turner’s domestic news business, partially offset by lower delivery at certain domestic entertainment networks. International advertising was essentially flat with local currency growth offset by the impact of foreign exchange rates. Content and other revenues increased due to higher international licensing revenues.

    HBO

    HBO revenues increased on account of a 5.2 percent y-o-y increase in subscription revenue in Q3-16 to $1,262 million from $1,200 million. Content and other revenue declined 1.8 percent y-o-y in the current quarter to $164 million from $167 million.

    HBO’s operating income in Q3-16 increased 2.1 percent y-o-y to $530 million from $519 million.

    The company says that Subscription revenues increased due to higher domestic rates and international growth. The decrease in Content and other revenues was due to lower domestic licensing revenues, partially offset by higher international licensing revenues.

    Warner Bros

    Warner Bros revenues increased due to a 44.9 percent y-o-y gain in its Theatrical product to $1,605 million in Q3-16 from $1,108 million. This gain was offset by a 2.1 percent y-o-y decline in Warner’s Television product to $1,430 million from #1,460 million and a 41 percent decline in its ‘Videogames and other’ revenue to $367 million from$672 million.

    The company says that Theatrical revenues increased due to the box office releases of Suicide Squad, The Legend of Tarzan, Sully and Lights Out. Videogames revenues declined due to the comparison to the launch ofLEGO Dimensions and carryover revenues from Mortal Kombat X in the prior year quarter.

    Warner Operating Income increased 11.2 percent ($43 million) y-o-y in the current quarter to $428 million from $385 million, due to the increase in revenues, partially offset by higher costs of revenues associated with the mix of film releases.

    Company speak

    Time Warner chairman and CEO Jeff Bewkes said, “We had a strong third quarter, which keeps us on track to exceed our original 2016 outlook and underscores our leadership in creating and distributing the very best content. In television, HBO took home more Primetime Emmy Awards than any other network for the 15th consecutive year and Time Warner’s divisions won a total of 40 Emmys, more than any other company. CNN’s standout election coverage made it the #1 news network in primetime among adults 18-49 for the fourth consecutive quarter and Turner’s momentum doesn’t stop there. Year-to-date, TBS, TNT and Adult Swim are three of the top five ad-supported cable networks in primetime among adults 18-49. In film, Warner Bros. had a strong quarter led by Suicide Squad and has the #1 release of the fall in Sully, while anticipation is off the charts for J.K. Rowling’s Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, which hits the big screen on November 18.”

    Bewkes continued, “The agreement we announced on October 22 to be acquired by AT&T Inc. represents a great outcome for our shareholders and an excellent opportunity to drive long-term value well into the future. Combining with AT&T is the natural next step in the evolution of our business and allows us to significantly accelerate our most important strategies.”

  • Q2-16: Warner Bros pulls down Time Warner revenue 5.4 percent

    Q2-16: Warner Bros pulls down Time Warner revenue 5.4 percent

    BENGALURU: Lower videogames, home entertainment and television licensing revenues pulled down Warner Bros revenue by 19.4 percent year-over-year (y-o-y) and operating income by 9.4 percent y-o-y for the quarter ended 30 June 2016 (Q2-16, current quarter). Warner Bros contributed 38.2 percent to Time Warner Inc. (Time Warner) in Q2-16, and hence pulled down its parent’s consolidated revenue by 5.4 percent y-o-y to $6,952 million from $7,348 million in the corresponding year ago quarter.

    Time Warner operating income was almost flat y-o-y (declined 0.7 percent) in the current quarter at $1,846 million as compared to $1,849 million in Q2-15. Adjusted operating income in Q2-16 declined 5.5 percent y-o-y to $1,760 million from $1,862 million in Q2-15.

    Company speak

    Time Warner chairman and CEO Jeff Bewkes said, “We had a strong first half of 2016, which puts us ahead of our original goals for the year. Our performance reflects the creative excellence resulting from investments we’ve been making in the very best content. At the same time, we’re capitalizing on new distribution opportunities to take advantage of the growing demand for high-quality video content around the world. As an example of our creative excellence, Time Warner received 148 Primetime Emmy nominations – more than any other company – with HBO’s 94 again setting the pace for the industry. In the second quarter, TNT and TBS finished as the two highest rated ad-supported cable networks in primetime among adults 18-49, and Warner Bros. once again came out of the upfront as the leading supplier to broadcast television. Warner Bros. also gained momentum in film with recent successes, such as Central Intelligence and The Conjuring 2, and anticipation is running high for Suicide Squad, which debuts this week.”

    Bewkes continued, “Today, we also announced our 10 percent investment in Hulu LLC and that Turner has separately signed an affiliate agreement for its full suite of networks to be carried on Hulu’s live-streaming service slated for launch early next year. These are just the latest examples of our commitment to supporting innovative digital services that allow consumers to access high-quality content however they want it across a variety of platforms. We’re confident the multiple investments we’re making in these types of services position the Company to benefit from growing global demand for the strongest network brands and very best video content.”

    Segment numbers

    Time Warner has three segments – Turner – which contributed the most to revenue (43.3 percent in Q2-16), Home Box Office – the smallest segment in terms of revenue contribution (21.1 percent in Q2-16) and Warner Bros which contributed 38.2 percent to Time Warner’s revenue Q2-16.

    Turner

    Turner reported 6.5 percent y-o-y increase in revenue in Q2-16 at $3,010 million as compared to $2,827 million in Q2-15. Revenues due to increases of 11 percent ($142 million) in Subscription revenue and 6 percent ($73 million) in Advertising revenue, partially offset by a decline of 15 percent ($32 million) in Content and other revenue says the company.

    Turner’s operating income in Q2-16 was flat y-o-y at $1,130 million, while adjusted operating income increased marginally y-o-y (0.3 percent) to $1,133 million from $1,130 million. The company says that operating income was flat as the growth in revenues was offset by higher expenses, including increased programming and marketing costs.

    Home Box Office (HBO)

    HBO revenue in the current quarter increased 2 percent y-o-y to $1,467million from $1,438 million in Q2-15. Time Warner says that HBO revenue increased due to an increase of 6 percent ($72 million) in Subscription revenues partially offset by a decline of 17 percent ($43 million) in Content and other revenues.

    The segment reported 5.3 percent y-o-y decline in operating income and adjusted operating income in the current quarter to $481 million from $508 million in Q2-15. Operating income declined because the growth in revenues was more than offset by higher expenses, including increased programming and restructuring and severance costs says the company.

    Warner Bros

    As mentioned above, Warner Bros declined 19.4 percent y-o-y to $2,658 million from $3,298 due to lower videogames, home entertainment and television licensing revenues.

    The segment reported 9.7 percent y-o-y decline in operating income in Q2-16 to $308 million from $341 million.  Adjusted operating income in the current quarter declined 36.9 percent to $217 million from $344 million in Q2-15. Time Warner says that operating income declined due to the decline in revenues, partially offset by lower associated costs of revenues due to the number and mix of film and videogames releases, a $90 million gain on the April 2016 sale of Flixster and lower film valuation adjustments.

  • Q2-16: Warner Bros pulls down Time Warner revenue 5.4 percent

    Q2-16: Warner Bros pulls down Time Warner revenue 5.4 percent

    BENGALURU: Lower videogames, home entertainment and television licensing revenues pulled down Warner Bros revenue by 19.4 percent year-over-year (y-o-y) and operating income by 9.4 percent y-o-y for the quarter ended 30 June 2016 (Q2-16, current quarter). Warner Bros contributed 38.2 percent to Time Warner Inc. (Time Warner) in Q2-16, and hence pulled down its parent’s consolidated revenue by 5.4 percent y-o-y to $6,952 million from $7,348 million in the corresponding year ago quarter.

    Time Warner operating income was almost flat y-o-y (declined 0.7 percent) in the current quarter at $1,846 million as compared to $1,849 million in Q2-15. Adjusted operating income in Q2-16 declined 5.5 percent y-o-y to $1,760 million from $1,862 million in Q2-15.

    Company speak

    Time Warner chairman and CEO Jeff Bewkes said, “We had a strong first half of 2016, which puts us ahead of our original goals for the year. Our performance reflects the creative excellence resulting from investments we’ve been making in the very best content. At the same time, we’re capitalizing on new distribution opportunities to take advantage of the growing demand for high-quality video content around the world. As an example of our creative excellence, Time Warner received 148 Primetime Emmy nominations – more than any other company – with HBO’s 94 again setting the pace for the industry. In the second quarter, TNT and TBS finished as the two highest rated ad-supported cable networks in primetime among adults 18-49, and Warner Bros. once again came out of the upfront as the leading supplier to broadcast television. Warner Bros. also gained momentum in film with recent successes, such as Central Intelligence and The Conjuring 2, and anticipation is running high for Suicide Squad, which debuts this week.”

    Bewkes continued, “Today, we also announced our 10 percent investment in Hulu LLC and that Turner has separately signed an affiliate agreement for its full suite of networks to be carried on Hulu’s live-streaming service slated for launch early next year. These are just the latest examples of our commitment to supporting innovative digital services that allow consumers to access high-quality content however they want it across a variety of platforms. We’re confident the multiple investments we’re making in these types of services position the Company to benefit from growing global demand for the strongest network brands and very best video content.”

    Segment numbers

    Time Warner has three segments – Turner – which contributed the most to revenue (43.3 percent in Q2-16), Home Box Office – the smallest segment in terms of revenue contribution (21.1 percent in Q2-16) and Warner Bros which contributed 38.2 percent to Time Warner’s revenue Q2-16.

    Turner

    Turner reported 6.5 percent y-o-y increase in revenue in Q2-16 at $3,010 million as compared to $2,827 million in Q2-15. Revenues due to increases of 11 percent ($142 million) in Subscription revenue and 6 percent ($73 million) in Advertising revenue, partially offset by a decline of 15 percent ($32 million) in Content and other revenue says the company.

    Turner’s operating income in Q2-16 was flat y-o-y at $1,130 million, while adjusted operating income increased marginally y-o-y (0.3 percent) to $1,133 million from $1,130 million. The company says that operating income was flat as the growth in revenues was offset by higher expenses, including increased programming and marketing costs.

    Home Box Office (HBO)

    HBO revenue in the current quarter increased 2 percent y-o-y to $1,467million from $1,438 million in Q2-15. Time Warner says that HBO revenue increased due to an increase of 6 percent ($72 million) in Subscription revenues partially offset by a decline of 17 percent ($43 million) in Content and other revenues.

    The segment reported 5.3 percent y-o-y decline in operating income and adjusted operating income in the current quarter to $481 million from $508 million in Q2-15. Operating income declined because the growth in revenues was more than offset by higher expenses, including increased programming and restructuring and severance costs says the company.

    Warner Bros

    As mentioned above, Warner Bros declined 19.4 percent y-o-y to $2,658 million from $3,298 due to lower videogames, home entertainment and television licensing revenues.

    The segment reported 9.7 percent y-o-y decline in operating income in Q2-16 to $308 million from $341 million.  Adjusted operating income in the current quarter declined 36.9 percent to $217 million from $344 million in Q2-15. Time Warner says that operating income declined due to the decline in revenues, partially offset by lower associated costs of revenues due to the number and mix of film and videogames releases, a $90 million gain on the April 2016 sale of Flixster and lower film valuation adjustments.

  • Q1-16: Turner, HBO push Time Warner revenues up 2.5 percent

    Q1-16: Turner, HBO push Time Warner revenues up 2.5 percent

    BENGALURU: Time Warner Inc., (Time Warner) reported 2.5 percent growth in revenues for the quarter ended 31 March 2016 (current quarter, Q1-16) at $7,308 million as compared to the $7,127 million in Q1-15. Revenues increased due to growth at Turner and Home Box Office, partially offset by a decline at Warner Bros.

    Total Operating Income increased 11.8 percent year-on-year in the current quarter to $1,996 million as compared to $1,786 million in the corresponding quarter of the previous year.

    Time Warner chairman and chief executive officer Jeff Bewkes said, ““We’re off to a terrific start to 2016, as we benefit from the investments we’ve been making in great content and new capabilities in order to take advantage of the growing demand for high-quality video content around the world. Revenues increased 3 percent and Adjusted Operating Income grew 11 percent to a quarterly record of $2 billion due to strong growth across all our operating divisions. In the past several weeks, we’ve seen Warner Bros. release its latest global hit in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, setting the stage for what we expect to be a big year in film, with upcoming releases including Suicide Squad and Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. In television, Warner Bros. continued to show its strength with three of the top five new shows on broadcast television this season among adults 18-49 and a record 21 renewals ahead of the upfront this year.”

    Bewkes continued, “Turner aired cable’s first ever NCAA Men’s Division I Basketball Championship game, and Turner and CBS entered into an agreement with the NCAA to extend their television, digital and marketing rights to the NCAA tournament through 2032. TBS ended the quarter as the #1 ad-supported cable network in primetime among adults 18-49 and its repositioning as cable’s premier network for young, fresh comedy is underway with the introduction of new programming including Angie Tribeca, Full Frontal with Samantha Bee and The Detour, the biggest new comedy on cable this year. With its must-watch coverage of the US presidential campaign, CNN continued to build on its success by more than doubling its primetime audience in the quarter. Meanwhile, HBO continued to make strides both inside and outside the traditional TV ecosystem, including expanding its OTT reach to new platforms and new international territories. And, more recently, HBO’s epic series Game of Thrones returned to record premiere night viewership. Further demonstrating our commitment to shareholder returns, we returned close to $1.3 billion to our shareholders through share repurchases and dividends year-to-date.”

    Turner

    Turner reported 7.2 percent YoY growth in revenues in the current quarter at $2,906 million as compared to $2,710 million. The segment reported 11.8 percent YoY increase in operating to $1,239 million from $1,108 million. 

    Revenues increased due to increases of 11 percent ($143 million) in subscription revenues and 5 percent ($56 million) in advertising revenues. Turner says subscription revenues increased due to higher domestic rates and local currency growth at Turner’s international networks, partially offset by the impact of foreign exchange rates and lower domestic subscribers. Advertising revenues benefited from domestic growth, primarily due to Turner’s news business, and local currency growth at Turner’s international networks, partially offset by the impact of foreign exchange rates.

    Home Box Office

    HBO reported YoY increase in revenues to $1,506 million in Q1-16 from $1,398 million in Q1-15. HBO operating income increased 4.1 percent to $477 million in the current quarter from $458 million in the corresponding year ago quarter.

    Revenues increased due to increases of 5 percent ($57 million) in subscription revenues and 23 percent ($51 million) in content and other revenues. Subscription revenues grew primarily due to higher domestic rates and subscribers. The increase in content and other revenues primarily reflected higher international licensing revenues, partially offset by lower home entertainment revenues.

    Warner Bros,

    Warner Bros. reported 2.8 percent YoY decline in revenues Q1-16 to $3,109 million from $3,199 million in Q1-15. Despite drop in revenue, Operating Income from the segment increased 30.9 percent in Q1-16 to $424 million from $324 million in the corresponding year ago quarter.

    Revenues decreased mainly due to lower theatrical revenues, partially offset by higher television and videogames revenues. Theatrical revenues declined as the prior year quarter included revenues from American Sniper and The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies compared to the release of Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice late in the current year quarter. Television revenues increased primarily due to higher international licensing revenues and higher initial telecast revenues. The increase in videogames was mainly due to Warner Bros. LEGO and Mortal Kombat franchises.

     

  • Q1-16: Turner, HBO push Time Warner revenues up 2.5 percent

    Q1-16: Turner, HBO push Time Warner revenues up 2.5 percent

    BENGALURU: Time Warner Inc., (Time Warner) reported 2.5 percent growth in revenues for the quarter ended 31 March 2016 (current quarter, Q1-16) at $7,308 million as compared to the $7,127 million in Q1-15. Revenues increased due to growth at Turner and Home Box Office, partially offset by a decline at Warner Bros.

    Total Operating Income increased 11.8 percent year-on-year in the current quarter to $1,996 million as compared to $1,786 million in the corresponding quarter of the previous year.

    Time Warner chairman and chief executive officer Jeff Bewkes said, ““We’re off to a terrific start to 2016, as we benefit from the investments we’ve been making in great content and new capabilities in order to take advantage of the growing demand for high-quality video content around the world. Revenues increased 3 percent and Adjusted Operating Income grew 11 percent to a quarterly record of $2 billion due to strong growth across all our operating divisions. In the past several weeks, we’ve seen Warner Bros. release its latest global hit in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, setting the stage for what we expect to be a big year in film, with upcoming releases including Suicide Squad and Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. In television, Warner Bros. continued to show its strength with three of the top five new shows on broadcast television this season among adults 18-49 and a record 21 renewals ahead of the upfront this year.”

    Bewkes continued, “Turner aired cable’s first ever NCAA Men’s Division I Basketball Championship game, and Turner and CBS entered into an agreement with the NCAA to extend their television, digital and marketing rights to the NCAA tournament through 2032. TBS ended the quarter as the #1 ad-supported cable network in primetime among adults 18-49 and its repositioning as cable’s premier network for young, fresh comedy is underway with the introduction of new programming including Angie Tribeca, Full Frontal with Samantha Bee and The Detour, the biggest new comedy on cable this year. With its must-watch coverage of the US presidential campaign, CNN continued to build on its success by more than doubling its primetime audience in the quarter. Meanwhile, HBO continued to make strides both inside and outside the traditional TV ecosystem, including expanding its OTT reach to new platforms and new international territories. And, more recently, HBO’s epic series Game of Thrones returned to record premiere night viewership. Further demonstrating our commitment to shareholder returns, we returned close to $1.3 billion to our shareholders through share repurchases and dividends year-to-date.”

    Turner

    Turner reported 7.2 percent YoY growth in revenues in the current quarter at $2,906 million as compared to $2,710 million. The segment reported 11.8 percent YoY increase in operating to $1,239 million from $1,108 million. 

    Revenues increased due to increases of 11 percent ($143 million) in subscription revenues and 5 percent ($56 million) in advertising revenues. Turner says subscription revenues increased due to higher domestic rates and local currency growth at Turner’s international networks, partially offset by the impact of foreign exchange rates and lower domestic subscribers. Advertising revenues benefited from domestic growth, primarily due to Turner’s news business, and local currency growth at Turner’s international networks, partially offset by the impact of foreign exchange rates.

    Home Box Office

    HBO reported YoY increase in revenues to $1,506 million in Q1-16 from $1,398 million in Q1-15. HBO operating income increased 4.1 percent to $477 million in the current quarter from $458 million in the corresponding year ago quarter.

    Revenues increased due to increases of 5 percent ($57 million) in subscription revenues and 23 percent ($51 million) in content and other revenues. Subscription revenues grew primarily due to higher domestic rates and subscribers. The increase in content and other revenues primarily reflected higher international licensing revenues, partially offset by lower home entertainment revenues.

    Warner Bros,

    Warner Bros. reported 2.8 percent YoY decline in revenues Q1-16 to $3,109 million from $3,199 million in Q1-15. Despite drop in revenue, Operating Income from the segment increased 30.9 percent in Q1-16 to $424 million from $324 million in the corresponding year ago quarter.

    Revenues decreased mainly due to lower theatrical revenues, partially offset by higher television and videogames revenues. Theatrical revenues declined as the prior year quarter included revenues from American Sniper and The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies compared to the release of Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice late in the current year quarter. Television revenues increased primarily due to higher international licensing revenues and higher initial telecast revenues. The increase in videogames was mainly due to Warner Bros. LEGO and Mortal Kombat franchises.