Shaw Announces Fourth Quarter and Full Year Results and Preliminary Fiscal 2012 Guidance
(firmenpresse) - CALGARY, ALBERTA -- (Marketwire) -- 10/20/11 -- Shaw Communications Inc. (TSX: SJR.B) (NYSE: SJR) announced results for the fourth quarter and year ended August 31, 2011. Consolidated revenue for the three and twelve month periods of $1.18 billion and $4.74 billion, respectively, was up 26% and 28% over the comparable periods last year. Total operating income before amortization(1)of $476 million and $2.03 billion, respectively, improved 12% and 15% over the same periods last year. Free cash flow(1) for the three and twelve month periods was $49 million and $603 million, respectively, compared to $69 million and $515 million for the comparable periods.
Chief Executive Officer Brad Shaw said, "Fiscal 2011 was a year in which we undertook important steps to be more operationally efficient and financially stronger. I am pleased to report we ended the year meeting all of our financial commitments. Our performance in the fourth quarter was highlighted by solid operating income growth in the Cable division and margin improvement."
Mr. Shaw continued "This was a year of significant change including the completion of the strategic acquisition of our new Media assets, our senior leadership transition, the start of our digital network upgrade, our broadband leadership initiatives including our Wi-Fi build, and our decision to not pursue a conventional wireless business. Shaw is a dynamic company, a successful operator, and a technology leader. We continue to leverage our broadband network and, with our focus on providing an exceptional customer experience, are driven to deliver new and innovative products and services. We recently announced our plans to build a managed Wi-Fi network to extend our customers broadband experience beyond their homes. Customers are actively seeking Wi-Fi hotspots to reduce data costs and improve their wireless broadband experience. Shaw will become the first service provider in Canada to deliver secure and reliable wireless broadband through an extensive Wi-Fi network covering thousands of locations."
"Our Media business has proven to be a key strategic asset and very attractive acquisition. The division performed extremely well this year, showcasing its leading portfolio of specialty channels and conventional programming and benefitting from the recovery in the advertising market. During the year we also continued to strengthen our capital structure and lower costs, taking advantage of favorable market conditions. We issued $1.3 billion in debt and $300 million in preferred equity using a portion of the proceeds to refinance higher cost debt assumed in the Canwest acquisition. We also continued to focus on returning value to our shareholders and paid almost $400 million in dividends. The initiatives we undertook this past year, and decisions we executed on, have positioned us well to move forward in this rapidly evolving competitive landscape."
Net income from continuing operations of $166.2 million or $0.37 per share for the quarter ended August 31, 2011 compared to $123 million or $0.28 per share for the same period last year. Net income from continuing operations for the annual period was $562 million or $1.24 per share compared to $534 million or $1.23 per share last year. All periods included non-operating items which are more fully detailed in Management's Discussions and Analysis (MD&A).(2) The current year-to-date period included a charge of $139 million for the discounted value of the $180 million CRTC benefit obligation related to the acquisition of Shaw Media, as well as business acquisition, integration and restructuring expenses of $91 million. The prior twelve month period included debt retirement costs and amounts related to financial instruments of $82 million and $45 million, respectively. Excluding the non-operating items, net income from continuing operations for the three and twelve month periods ended August 31, 2011 would have been $147 million and $696 million respectively, compared to $133 million and $614 million in the same periods last year.
Revenue in the Cable division was up almost 6% for each of the three and twelve month periods, respectively, to $784 million and $3.10 billion. The improvement was primarily driven by price changes and growth. Operating income before amortization for the quarter of $392 million was up 10% over the comparable quarter. Excluding the one-time CRTC Part II fee recovery last year, operating income before amortization for the annual period increased over 6% to $1.49 billion.
In the Satellite division revenue was $208 million and $828 million for the three and twelve month periods, respectively, up 3% over each of the comparable periods. Operating income before amortization for the current quarter of $72 million improved almost 5% over the same period last year. Excluding the one-time Part II fee recovery, operating income before amortization for the annual period of $288 million improved 3% over last year.
Quarterly revenue and operating income before amortization in the Media division was $209 million and $12 million, respectively. Revenue and operating income before amortization for the period from October 27, 2010 to August 31, 2011 was $891 million and $252 million, respectively. For informational purposes, on a comparative basis to last year, Media revenues for the full twelve month period were up approximately 7% to $1.07 billion and operating income before amortization, excluding the impact of the one-time Part II fee recovery last year, improved 25% to $325 million.
Shaw completed its review of the wireless strategic initiative and concluded that the economics as a new entrant would be extremely challenging, even with the Company's established base and considerable strengths and assets. Shaw has decided not to pursue a conventional wireless build and instead plans to focus on initiatives that align with leveraging its Media and programming assets and strengthening its leadership position in broadband and video. Excluding spectrum licenses, all assets which are not re-deployable or held for resale have been written off in the fourth quarter.
In August Shaw redeemed all of its outstanding 13.5% senior notes due 2015. The notes had a face value of US $260.4 million.
Looking forward Mr. Shaw said, "We are starting the new fiscal year with a number of strategic initiatives on the agenda including our digital network upgrade and Wi-Fi build. We expect continued growth in revenue and operating income before amortization across all divisions in 2012. Investment in our various strategic initiatives is expected to increase capital over 2011 spend levels, excluding wireless. Combined with higher CRTC benefit obligation funding and cash taxes, we expect free cash flow to decline moderately to approximate $550 million."
In closing Brad Shaw stated, "We look forward to the challenges and opportunities ahead. We have the resources, the creativity, and the drive to successfully execute on our fiscal 2012 strategic business priorities building value for our shareholders."
Shaw Communications Inc. is a diversified communications and media company, providing consumers with broadband cable television, High-Speed Internet, Home Phone, telecommunications services (through Shaw Business), satellite direct-to-home services (through Shaw Direct) and engaging programming content (through Shaw Media). Shaw serves 3.4 million customers, through a reliable and extensive fibre network. Shaw Media operates one of the largest conventional television networks in Canada, Global Television, and 18 specialty networks including HGTV Canada, Food Network Canada, History Television and Showcase. Shaw is traded on the Toronto and New York stock exchanges and is included in the S&P/TSX 60 Index (TSX: SJR.B) (NYSE: SJR).
The accompanying Management's Discussion and Analysis forms part of this news release and the "Caution Concerning Forward Looking Statements" applies to all forward-looking statements made in this news release.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
AUGUST 31, 2011
October 20, 2011
Certain statements in this report may constitute forward-looking statements. Included herein is a "Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements" section which should be read in conjunction with this report.
The following should also be read in conjunction with Management's Discussion and Analysis included in the Company's August 31, 2010 Annual Report including the Consolidated Financial Statements and the Notes thereto and the unaudited interim Consolidated Financial Statements and the Notes thereto of the current quarter.
CONSOLIDATED RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
FOURTH QUARTER ENDING AUGUST 31, 2011
Selected Financial Highlights
Consolidated Overview
Consolidated revenue of $1.18 billion and $4.74 billion for the three and twelve month periods, respectively, improved 25.8% and 27.5% over the same periods last year. The improvement was primarily due to the acquisition of Shaw Media, as well as price changes and growth in the Cable and Satellite divisions.
Consolidated operating income before amortization for the three and twelve month periods of $476.2 million and $2.03 billion, respectively, increased 12.2% and 15.4% over the same periods last year. Both periods benefitted from the acquisition of Shaw Media as well as core revenue related growth, partially offset by higher programming costs and increased sales and marketing. Employee related costs were up on a full year basis and generally even in the current quarter, benefitting from the restructuring initiatives completed earlier this year. The current annual period also included the impact of the retroactive support structure rate increases and the prior year benefitted from a one-time CRTC Part II fee recovery of $75.3 million.
Net income from continuing operations was $166.2 million and $562.1 million for the three and twelve months ended August 31, 2011, respectively, compared to $122.6 million and $533.8 million for the same periods last year. Non-operating items affected all periods. The current year-to-date period included a charge of $139.1 million for the discounted value of the $180.0 million CRTC benefit obligation, net of incremental revenues, related to the Media acquisition, as well as business acquisition, integration and restructuring expenses of $90.6 million. The prior year-to-date period included debt retirement costs and amounts related to financial instruments of $81.6 million and $47.3 million, respectively. Outlined below are further details on these and other operating and non-operating components of net income for each period.
(1) See definition and discussion under Key Performance Drivers
Basic earnings per share were $0.37 and $1.24 for the three and twelve months, respectively compared to $0.28 and $1.23 in the same periods last year. The improvement in the quarter was primarily due to increased operating income before amortization of $51.8 million and the change in net other costs and revenues of $31.0 million, the total of which was partially offset by increased interest and amortization of $25.4 million and $12.8 million, respectively. The change in net other costs and revenue was mainly due to a gain in the current period realized on the redemption of the US$ senior notes. The current annual period was up modestly over the prior year. Improved operating income before amortization of $270.7 million was reduced by higher interest, amortization, and income taxes of $83.6 million, $80.0 million, and $21.3 million, respectively. The change in net other costs and revenue of $57.4 million also reduced the current period and was primarily due to amounts related to the CRTC benefit obligation and various acquisition, integration and restructuring costs, partially offset by debt retirement costs and amounts related to financial instruments associated with the early redemption of the three series of US senior notes in the prior year. The prior twelve month period operating income before amortization included a one-time CRTC Part II fee recovery of $75.3 million which was offset in the current year by amounts related to Shaw Media and growth in the Cable and Satellite divisions.
Net income from continuing operations in the current quarter decreased $37.8 million compared to the third quarter of fiscal 2011 mainly due to reduced operating income before amortization of $104.8 million and increased amortization of $7.7 million, partially offset by the change in net other costs and revenue and lower income taxes of $55.6 million and $17.4 million, respectively. The decreased operating income before amortization was primarily due to the cyclical nature of the Media business, with lower advertising revenues in the summer months. The change in net other costs and revenue was primarily due to restructuring costs in the prior period.
Free cash flow for the quarter and annual period of $49.0 million and $603.0 million, respectively, compared to $69.3 million and $515.1 million in the same periods last year. The decline in the current quarter was mainly due to increased operating income before amortization in the Cable division, reduced by higher interest, taxes, and CRTC benefit obligation funding. The annual improvement was due to the Shaw Media acquisition and growth in the Cable and Satellite divisions, partially reduced by a one-time Part II fee recovery last year.
Shaw completed its review of the wireless strategic initiative and concluded that the economics as a new entrant would be extremely challenging, even with the Company's established base and considerable strengths and assets. Shaw has decided not to pursue a conventional wireless build and instead plans to focus on initiatives that align with leveraging its Media and programming assets and strengthening its leadership position in broadband and video. The Company intends to hold its wireless spectrum while it reviews all options.
Key Performance Drivers
The Company's continuous disclosure documents may provide discussion and analysis of non-GAAP financial measures. These financial measures do not have standard definitions prescribed by Canadian GAAP or US GAAP and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures disclosed by other companies. The Company utilizes these measures in making operating decisions and assessing its performance. Certain investors, analysts and others, utilize these measures in assessing the Company's operational and financial performance and as an indicator of its ability to service debt and return cash to shareholders. These non-GAAP financial measures have not been presented as an alternative to net income or any other measure of performance required by Canadian or US GAAP.
The following contains a listing of non-GAAP financial measures used by the Company and provides a reconciliation to the nearest GAAP measurement or provides a reference to such reconciliation.
Operating income before amortization and operating margin
Operating income before amortization is calculated as revenue less operating, general and administrative expenses and is presented as a sub-total line item in the Company's unaudited interim Consolidated Statements of Income and Retained Earnings. It is intended to indicate the Company's ability to service and/or incur debt, and therefore it is calculated before amortization (a non-cash expense) and interest. Operating income before amortization is also one of the measures used by the investing community to value the business. Operating margin is calculated by dividing operating income before amortization by revenue.
Free cash flow
The Company utilizes this measurement as it measures the Company's ability to repay debt and return cash to shareholders.
Free cash flow for cable and satellite is calculated as operating income before amortization, less interest, cash taxes paid or payable, capital expenditures (on an accrual basis and net of proceeds on capital dispositions) and equipment costs (net) and adjusted to exclude non-cash stock-based compensation expense.
With respect to the new Media segment, free cash flow has been determined as detailed above and in addition, Shaw has deducted cash amounts associated with funding the new and assumed CRTC benefit obligation related to the acquisition of Shaw Media as well as excluding the non-controlling interest amounts that are consolidated in the operating income before amortization, capital expenditure and cash tax amounts.
Cable revenue for the three and twelve month periods of $783.6 million and $3.10 billion improved 5.5% and 5.6%, respectively, over the comparable periods last year. The quarter and year-to-date growth was driven by price changes and customer growth in Digital Phone and Internet partially offset by lower Basic subscribers and higher promotional activity.
Operating income before amortization of $392.4 million for the quarter improved 10.3% over the same period last year. The annual amount of $1.49 billion increased 6.2% over last year excluding the prior period one-time CRTC Part II fee recovery of $48.7 million. The revenue related growth in the quarter was partially reduced by higher programming costs. Employee related costs were consistent with the comparable quarterly period reflecting the benefit of the restructuring initiatives completed in late March. The annual improvement was driven by revenue related growth partially offset by increased employee related costs, programming, and marketing and sales expenses. Both the current three and twelve month periods were also impacted by the CRTC decision approving a retroactive rate increase in support structure charges by ILECs with the annual period including the impact of the retroactive increase and the current quarter reflecting the ongoing higher costs.
Revenue declined $1.1 million over the third quarter of fiscal 2011 primarily due to reduced Basic subscribers and seasonally lower On Demand revenues partially offset by customer price changes and decreased promotional activity. Operating income before amortization improved $4.6 million over this same period primarily due to lower various expenses.
Total capital investment of $222.9 million and $708.8 million for the quarter and annual periods decreased $32.9 million and $48.3 million, respectively, over the comparable periods last year. Success based capital declined $4.4 million and $15.3 million over the comparable three and twelve month periods mainly due lower purchases of digital phone customer premise equipment.
Investment in Upgrades and enhancement and Replacement categories combined decreased by $23.6 million and $30.9 million for the quarter and annual periods, respectively, compared to last year. Both the current periods included investment on the digital network upgrade which was more than offset by lower spending on Digital Phone infrastructure, Video enhancements, and automotive as compared to the prior periods.
Buildings and other decreased $11.7 million and $11.6 million, respectively, for the quarter and annual periods compared to the same periods last year mainly due to reduced investment in various facilities projects. The current periods also benefitted from proceeds on the sale of redundant real estate while the comparable periods included increased investment in certain corporate assets. These favorable variances were partially offset by higher spend related to back office and customer support systems in the current periods.
Spending in new housing development increased $6.9 million and $9.6 million over the comparable three and twelve month periods last year mainly due to higher activity as well as bulk stock purchasing in the current quarter.
On June 30 the Company closed the acquisition of the cable system assets of Sun Country Cablevision Inc. located in the central interior of British Columbia, adding approximately 6,500 Basic cable customers, including 2,100 Digital subscribers, and 4,000 Internet subscribers. These assets represent a complementary growth opportunity and will provide synergies with existing operations.
During the quarter Shaw commenced its digital network upgrade which converts analog tiers to digital, significantly increasing the capacity of the network for more Internet, HD and On Demand programming. The upgrade will increase the Digital customer footprint and is expected to be substantially complete early in fiscal 2013.
As at August 31, 2011 Shaw had 1,877,231 Internet customers which represents an 82% penetration of Basic. Shaw recently announced its intent to provide a managed Wi-Fi network that will extend a customer's broadband experience beyond their home. Wi-Fi is in virtually all portable consumer devices and customers are actively seeking Wi-Fi hotspots to reduce data costs and improve their wireless broadband experience. Shaw, working with Cisco, will become the first service provider in Canada to deliver secure, reliable wireless broadband in thousands of locations. During the quarter the Company also commenced construction of a new data centre in Calgary that will allow it to stay ahead of the technology curve and be able to handle new innovations as they come, such as the Wi-Fi network initiative. The data centre incorporates energy efficient cooling systems allowing Shaw to reduce the environmental impact. The centre is planned to be complete in the spring of 2014.
Shaw continued to grow its Digital customer base and penetration of Basic at August 31, 2011 was 79.5%, up from 70.7% at August 31, 2010. Shaw has approximately 910,000 HD capable customers. During the quarter, the Company expanded the availability of the Shaw Gateway, a new standard on connected entertainment.
Revenue of $207.7 million and $827.5 million for the three and twelve month periods, respectively, was up 3.3% and 2.9% over the same periods last year. The improvement was primarily due to customer price changes. Operating income before amortization for the quarter of $72.0 million was up 4.5% over the same quarter last year. The revenue related growth was partially offset by higher programming, marketing and sales expenses. For the annual period, excluding the one-time Part II fee recovery of $26.6 million, operating income before amortization improved 2.6%.
Compared to the third quarter, operating income before amortization declined $3.9 million primarily due to increased marketing and sales expenses.
Total capital investment of $48.9 million and $106.8 million for the three and twelve month periods, respectively, increased over the comparable periods last year primarily due to the payment to Telesat in the current quarter related to the new Anik G1 satellite under construction. Shaw Direct has entered into agreements with Telesat to acquire capacity on the new satellite expected to be available early in fiscal 2013. The capacity will provide bandwidth for expanded customer choice, including new HD and other advanced services. Customer satellite dishes recently began to be deployed with new outdoor equipment which will be capable of receiving signals from three satellites, including Anik G1.
During the quarter, Shaw Direct launched a new entry level HD receiver. With this addition, all new receivers are HD and MPEG-4 technology capable which allows for additional channels to be added with existing satellite capacity. Shaw Direct also began broadcasting in MPEG-4 during the quarter and launched 13 new channels, including a number of key local services.
Operating Highlights
Revenue in the Media division for the fourth quarter was $209.5 million and operating income before amortization was $11.9 million. Advertising revenue in the quarter was driven by strength in the government, drug products, alcohol beverages, and entertainment equipment categories. Revenue and operating income before amortization for the period from October 27, 2010 to August 31, 2011 was $890.9 million and $251.6 million, respectively. For informational purposes, on a comparative basis to last year, Media revenues for the current full twelve month period were up approximately 7%, and operating income before amortization, excluding the one-time Part II fee recovery last year, increased almost 25%. The annual improvement was due to higher revenues mainly driven by the strengthening of the advertising market.
Compared to the third quarter revenue and operating income decreased $102.7 million and $105.5 million, respectively. The declines were primarily due to the cyclical nature of the Media business, with lower advertising revenues in the summer months.
Global continued to perform well, with Big Brother returning for its thirteenth season and consistently holding a top 10 position. In addition, Combat Hospital was the top ranked Canadian drama this summer and Media's specialty channels continued to have a strong presence in the rankings.
During the quarter Media was successful in renegotiating four collective bargaining agreements covering over 1,000 unionized employees, the majority of which had been out of contract for four to five years. A fair and equitable solution for both business and the unionized employees was reached and the new agreements have been ratified.
Capital investment in the quarter continued on various projects including the conversion of transmitters from analog to digital in the CRTC mandated markets, upgrades of aging production equipment and improvements to network infrastructure and websites. The integration of various back-office infrastructure continued and was substantially complete at August 31, 2011.
Amortization of deferred equipment revenue and deferred equipment costs decreased over the comparative periods due to the sales mix of equipment, changes in customer pricing on certain equipment and the impact of equipment rental programs.
Amortization of property, plant and equipment and other intangibles increased over the comparable periods as the amortization of capital expenditures and the effect of Shaw Media in the current year exceeded the impact of assets that became fully depreciated.
Amortization of financing costs and Interest expense
Interest expense increased over the comparative periods as a result of the Canwest broadcasting business acquisition. Approximately $1 billion was required to complete the transaction including repayment of the CW Media term loan and breakage of related currency swaps. In addition, US $338.3 million 13.5% senior unsecured notes were assumed as part of the acquisition. The Company repurchased US $56 million of the senior unsecured notes in December 2010 and redeemed the remaining outstanding amount on August 15, 2011.
Debt retirement costs
During the first quarter of the prior year, the Company redeemed all of its outstanding US $440 million 8.25% senior notes due April 11, 2010, US $225 million 7.25% senior notes due April 6, 2011 and US $300 million 7.20% senior notes due December 15, 2011. In connection with the early redemptions, the Company incurred costs of $79.5 million and wrote-off the remaining discount and finance costs of $2.1 million. The Company used proceeds from its $1.25 billion 5.65% senior notes issuance in early October 2009 to fund the cash requirements for the redemptions.
Gain on redemption of debt
The gain on redemption of debt is in respect of the Media 13.5% senior unsecured notes. As a result of a change of control triggered on the acquisition of the Media business, an offer to purchase all of the US $338.3 million 13.5% senior unsecured notes at a cash price equal to 101% was required. An aggregate US $51.6 million face amount, having an aggregate accrued value of US $56 million, was tendered under the offer and purchased by the Company for cancellation during the second quarter. During the fourth quarter, the Company elected to redeem the remaining outstanding US $260.4 million face amount, having an aggregate accrued valued of US $282.3 million, at 106.75% as set out under the terms of the indenture. As a result, the Company recorded gains of $10.0 million and $22.8 million during the second and fourth quarters respectively. The $32.8 million gain resulted from recognizing the remaining unamortized acquisition date fair value adjustment of $57.4 million partially offset by the 1% repurchase and 6.75% redemption premiums totaling $19.5 million and $5.1 million in respect of the write-off of the embedded derivative instrument associated with the early prepayment option.
CRTC benefit obligation
As part of the CRTC decision approving the Media acquisition during the first quarter, the Company is required to contribute approximately $180 million in new benefits to the Canadian broadcasting system over the next seven years. Most of this contribution will be used to create new programming on Shaw Media services, construct digital transmission towers and provide a satellite solution for over-the-air viewers whose local television stations do not convert to digital. The fair value of the obligation on the acquisition date of $139.1 million was determined by discounting future net cash flows using a 5.75% discount rate and has been recorded in the income statement.
Business acquisition, integration and restructuring expenses
The Company incurred costs in respect of the acquisition of the broadcasting businesses of Canwest and organizational restructuring which amounted to $0.4 million and $90.6 million for the three and twelve months ended August 31, 2011, respectively. The annual amounts include acquisition related costs to effect the acquisition, such as professional fees paid to lawyers and consultants. The integration and restructuring costs relate to integrating the new businesses and increasing organizational effectiveness for future growth as well as package costs for the former CEO of Shaw. In March 2011 Shaw implemented further cost saving initiatives including staff reductions and a review of overhead expenses to drive efficiencies and enhance competitiveness. Approximately 550 employee positions were eliminated, including 150 at the management level. The $0.4 million recorded in the current quarter relates to revisions to the estimated cost to vacate facilities.
Loss on derivative instruments
For derivative instruments where hedge accounting is not permissible or derivatives are not designated in a hedging relationship, the Company records changes in the fair value of derivative instruments in the income statement. In addition, the Media senior unsecured notes had a variable prepayment option which represented an embedded derivative that was accounted for separately at fair value until the Company gave notice of redemption during the fourth quarter. The total recorded in respect of all such derivative instruments was a gain of $3.8 million and loss of $22.0 million for the three and twelve months ended August 31, 2011, respectively, compared to a $0.6 million gain and $45.2 million loss in the same periods last year. The comparative annual period included a loss of $50.1 million reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss in respect of the cross-currency interest rate exchange agreements that no longer qualified as cash flow hedges when the US senior notes were redeemed in October 2009.
Accretion of long-term liabilities
The Company records accretion expense in respect of the discounting of certain long-term liabilities which are accreted to their estimated value over their respective terms. The expense is primarily in respect of CRTC benefit obligations as well as the liability which arose in 2010 when the Company entered into amended agreements with the counterparties to certain cross-currency agreements to fix the settlement of the principal portion of the swaps in December 2011.
Foreign exchange gain (loss) on unhedged long-term debt
In conjunction with the acquisition of the broadcasting businesses of Canwest, the Company assumed a US $389.6 million term loan and US $338.3 million senior unsecured notes. Shortly after closing the acquisition, the Company repaid the term loan including breakage of the related cross currency interest rate swaps. During the second quarter, the Company repurchased and cancelled US $51.6 million face amount of the senior secured notes which had an aggregate accrued value of US $56 million. During the fourth quarter, the Company elected to redeem the remaining outstanding US $260.4 million face amount of the senior secured notes, having an aggregate accrued valued of US $282.3 million. As a result of fluctuations of the Canadian dollar relative to the US dollar, a foreign exchange loss of $6.7 million and gain of $16.7 million was recorded for the three and twelve months ended August 31, 2011, respectively.
Other gains (losses)
This category generally includes realized and unrealized foreign exchange gains and losses on US dollar denominated current assets and liabilities, gains and losses on disposal of property, plant and equipment and the Company's share of the operations of Burrard Landing Lot 2 Holdings Partnership (the "Partnership").
Income taxes
Income taxes increased over the comparable year primarily due to the impact of an income tax recovery of $17.6 million related to reductions in corporate income tax rates recorded in the first quarter of 2010.
Equity income (loss) on investees
During the first quarter, the Company recorded income of $13.4 million in respect of its 49.9% equity interest in CW Media for the period September 1 to October 26, 2010. On October 27, 2010, the Company acquired the remaining equity interest in CW Media as part of its purchase of all the broadcasting assets of Canwest. Results of operations are consolidated effective October 27, 2010. The equity income was comprised of approximately $19.6 million of operating income before amortization partially offset by interest expense of $4.5 million and other net costs of $1.7 million. The remaining equity income on investees is in respect of interests in several specialty channels. The $11.3 million loss in the prior year was in respect of the 49.9% equity interest in CW Media for the period May 3 to August 31, 2010. The loss was comprised of approximately $20.8 million of operating income before amortization offset by interest expense of $9.9 million and other costs of $22.2 million, the majority of which were fair value adjustments on derivative instruments and foreign exchange losses on US denominated long-term debt.
Loss from discontinued operations
Shaw completed its review of the wireless strategic initiative and concluded that the economics as a new entrant would be extremely challenging, even with the Company's established base and considerable strengths and assets. As a result, the Company decided to discontinue further construction of its wireless network and has classified all wireless activities as discontinued operations, including restatement of comparative periods. The Company recorded after tax losses of $83.7 million and $89.3 million for the current quarter and year, respectively and a loss of $1.0 million for 2010. The loss of $89.3 million was comprised of a write-down of assets of $111.5 million, operating expenditures and amortization of $8.3 million and an income tax recovery of $30.5 million.
RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES
The significant risks and uncertainties affecting the Company and its business are discussed in the Company's August 31, 2010 Annual Report under the Introduction to the Business - Known Events, Trends, Risks and Uncertainties in Management's Discussion and Analysis. Developments of note since then are as follows:
Licensing and ownership
The Corporations licenses for its over-the-air ("OTA") television stations and specialty services were set to expire on August 31, 2011. Shaw filed a group renewal application with the CRTC late in calendar 2010. The CRTC approved the renewal of Media's conventional and specialty broadcast licenses for a five year term with conditions generally as requested in the group renewal application.
Digital transition
The Corporation completed the conversion of their full-power OTA analog transmitters to digital transmitters in the CRTC mandated markets by August 31, 2011.
Vertical integration proceeding
On September 21, 2011 the CRTC issued its regulatory framework relating to vertical integration. The new policy is consistent with Shaw's recommendations for a symmetrical, flexible and customer-focused framework.
FINANCIAL POSITION
Total assets at August 31, 2011 were $12.5 billion compared to $10.2 billion at August 31, 2010. Following is a discussion of significant changes in the consolidated balance sheet since August 31, 2010.
Current assets increased by $666.8 million primarily due to increases in cash and cash equivalents of $226.7 million, accounts receivable of $246.4 million, inventories of $43.1 million, other current assets of $202.9 million and assets held for sale of $15 million, all of which were partially offset by a decrease in derivative instruments of $65.2 million. Cash and cash equivalents increased as the net funds provided by operating and financing activities, including proceeds from the issuance of $1.3 billion of senior notes and $300.0 million preferred shares, exceeded the cash outlay on capital expenditures and the Canwest broadcasting business acquisition and the cash requirements of the wireless build prior to being discontinued. Accounts receivable and other current assets were up primarily as a result of the Media acquisition while inventories were higher due to increased equipment purchases. Assets held for sale of $15 million arose due to the decision to cease further construction of a wireless network. Derivative instruments decreased due to settlement of the contracts.
Investments and other assets decreased by $730 million due to the acquisition of remaining equity interest in CW Media which is now consolidated as a 100% owned subsidiary and expensing of acquisition related costs partially offset by investments in several specialty channels purchased in the Media acquisition.
Property, plant and equipment and other intangibles increased by $195.6 million and $72.8 million, respectively as current year capital investment and amounts acquired on the Media acquisition exceeded amortization and the impact of the Company's decision to cease further construction of its wireless network which resulted in a write-down of $111.5 million and reclassification of $16 million to assets held for sale.
Future income taxes of $21.8 million arose due to timing of temporary differences.
Other long-term assets increased by $24.9 million primarily due to higher deferred equipment costs and prepaid maintenance and support contracts.
Broadcast rights and licenses, and goodwill increased $1.4 billion and $645.7 million, respectively, primarily due to the acquisition of the Canwest broadcasting businesses.
Program rights of $67.1 million arose on the acquisition of the Canwest broadcasting businesses.
Current liabilities were up $111.8 million due to increases in accounts payable of $171.9 million, other liability of $161.3 million and unearned revenue of $9.1 million partially offset by decreases in income taxes payable of $158.2 million and derivative instruments of $72.2 million. Accounts payable and accrued liabilities increased primarily due to the impact of the Media acquisition. Unearned revenue increased due to pricing changes and customer growth. Income taxes payable decreased due to funding income tax amounts partially offset by current year tax expense and amounts assumed on the Media acquisition. Derivative instruments decreased due to the end of swap notional exchange relating to an outstanding cross-currency interest rate agreement partially offset by reclassifying amounts from non-current liabilities based on settlement dates. The other liability is the obligation in respect of the principal component of the US $300 million amended cross-currency interest rate agreements which has been reclassified from noncurrent liabilities as it settles in December 2011.
Long-term debt increased $1.3 billion as a result of the issuance of $900 million of senior notes in December 2010 and $400 million in February 2011. Approximately $1 billion was required to complete the Canwest broadcasting business acquisition during the first quarter. The acquisition was initially funded by borrowings under the Company's revolving credit facility which were subsequently repaid primarily with the net proceeds from the $900 million senior notes offering.
Other long-term liabilities increased by $59.6 million mainly due to the non-current portion of CRTC benefit obligations and benefit plans as a result of the Media acquisition as well as current year defined benefit pension plan expense partially offset by the aforementioned reclassification of the obligation in respect of the principal component of the US $300 million amended cross-currency interest rate agreements.
Derivatives decreased by $6.5 million as amounts have been reclassified to current liabilities based on settlement dates.
Future income taxes increased $247.5 million primarily due to the Media acquisition partially offset by the current year tax recovery in respect of discontinued operations.
Share capital increased $383 million due to the issuance of 12,000,000 Cumulative Redeemable Rate Reset Preferred Shares, Series A ("Preferred Shares") for net proceeds of $290.9 million and 4,594,347 Class B Non-Voting Shares under the Company's option plan and Dividend Reinvestment Plan ("DRIP") for $89.8 million. As of October 15, 2011, share capital is as reported at August 31, 2011 with the exception of the issuance of a total of 684,604 Class B Non-Voting Shares under the DRIP and upon exercise of options under the Company's option plan subsequent to the quarter end. Contributed surplus increased due to stock-based compensation expense recorded in the current year. Accumulated other comprehensive income decreased due settlement of the forward purchase contracts in respect of the closing of the acquisition of the Canwest broadcasting businesses. Non-controlling interests arose in the first quarter due to a number of non-wholly owned specialty channels acquired as part of the Media acquisition.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
In the current year, the Company generated $603.0 million of free cash flow. Shaw used its free cash flow along with net proceeds of $1.27 billion from its three senior notes issuances, net proceeds of $290.9 million from its Preferred Share issuance, proceeds on issuance of Class B Non-Voting Shares of $45.9 million and other net items of $23.2 million to pay $981.2 million to complete the Canwest broadcasting business acquisition including repayment of the CW Media term loan and breakage of related currency swaps, fund the net change in working capital requirements of approximately $218.2 million, pay common share dividends of $352.0 million, fund cash requirements of the wireless discontinued operations of $148.0 million, pay $353.4 million to redeem the Media senior unsecured notes including the prepayment premium, purchase cable systems for $35.7 million and increase cash and cash equivalents by $143.6 million.
Within thirty days of closing of the Media acquisition, a subsidiary of CW Media was required to make a change of control offer at a cash price equal to 101% of the obligations under the US 13.5% senior unsecured notes due 2015 issued by it in accordance with a related indenture dated as of July 3, 2008. As a result, on November 15, 2010, an offer was made to purchase all of the notes for an effective purchase price of US $1,145.58 for each US $1,000 face amount. An aggregate of US $51.6 million face amount was tendered under the offer and purchased by the Company for cancellation for an aggregate price of approximately $60 million, including accrued interest. During the fourth quarter, the Company elected to redeem the remaining outstanding US $260.4 million face amount, having an aggregate accrued valued of US $282.3 million, at 106.75% as set out under the terms of the indenture at an effective purchase price of US $1,230.70 for each US $1,000 face amount.
To allow for timely access to capital markets, the Company filed a short form base shelf prospectus with securities regulators in Canada and the U.S. on November 18, 2010. The shelf prospectus allows for the issue of up to an aggregate $4 billion of debt and equity securities over a 25 month period. Pursuant to this shelf prospectus, the Company issued $300.0 million of preferred shares during the fourth quarter and completed three senior notes offerings in the second quarter totalling $1.3 billion as follows:
The Company's DRIP allows holders of Class A Shares and Class B Non-Voting Shares who are residents of Canada to automatically reinvest monthly cash dividends to acquire additional Class B Non-Voting Shares. During the third quarter, the Company announced that the Class B Non-Voting Shares distributed under its DRIP would be new shares issued from treasury at a 2% discount from the five day weighted average market price immediately preceding the applicable dividend payment date. Previously, the Class B Non-Voting Shares were acquired on the open market at prevailing market prices. The change was effective for the May 30, 2011 dividend payment and has resulted in cash savings and incremental Class B Non-Voting Shares of $39.4 million.
On November 25, 2010 Shaw received the approval of the TSX to renew its normal course issuer bid to purchase its Class B Non-Voting Shares for a further one year period. The Company is authorized to acquire up to 37,000,000 Class B Non-Voting Shares during the period December 1, 2010 to November 30, 2011. No shares have been repurchased during the current year.
At August 31, 2011, the Company held $443.4 million in cash and cash equivalents and had access to $1 billion of available credit facilities. Based on available credit facilities and forecasted free cash flow, the Company expects to have sufficient liquidity to fund operations and obligations during the upcoming fiscal year. On a longer-term basis, Shaw expects to generate free cash flow and have borrowing capacity sufficient to finance foreseeable future business plans and refinance maturing debt.
Funds flow from continuing operations increased over the comparative quarter due to the combined impact of higher operating income before amortization adjusted for non-cash program rights expenses partially offset by higher interest expense and funding of CRTC benefit obligations in the current year. Funds flow from operations increased over the comparative year due to the aforementioned items partially offset by the realized loss on the mark-to-market payments to terminate the cross-currency interest rate exchange agreements in conjunction with repayment of the CW Media term loan, higher current income taxes and the acquisition, integration and restructuring costs in the current year. The net change in non-cash working capital balances over the comparable periods was primarily due to funding of income tax amounts in the current year, the timing of payment of trade and other payables and the seasonal advertising impact of the new Media division on accounts receivable.
The cash used in investing activities increased over the comparable quarter due to the proceeds received on sale of a Government of Canada bond in the prior year. On an annual basis, the cash required for investing activities decreased over the prior year due to the cash outlay of $744.1 million in the prior year in respect of the Company's initial investment in CW Media and the Mountain Cable business acquisition in Hamilton, Ontario partially offset by amounts paid to complete the acquisition of the broadcasting businesses of Canwest and higher capital expenditures and inventories in the current year.
Financing Activities
The changes in financing activities during the comparative periods were as follows:
Generally, revenue and operating income before amortization have grown quarter-over-quarter mainly due to customer growth and price changes with the exception of the second and fourth quarters of 2010 and fourth quarter of 2011. In the fourth quarter of 2011, revenue and operating income declined by $104.0 million and $104.8 million, respectively, due to the cyclical nature of the Media business with lower advertising revenues in the summer months. In the fourth quarter of 2010, revenue and operating income before amortization declined by $4.8 million and $11.5 million, respectively, due to customer growth offset by timing of On-Demand events, increased promotional activity and timing of certain expenses including maintenance and costs related to customer growth. Operating income before amortization decreased by $50.1 million in the second quarter of 2010 due to the impact of the one-time Part II fee recovery of $75.3 million recorded in the previous quarter.
Net income has fluctuated quarter-over-quarter primarily as a result of the growth in operating income before amortization described above and the impact of the net change in non-operating items. The first quarter of the current year was also impacted by the acquisition of the Canwest broadcasting businesses. As a result, net income declined by $101.2 million in the first quarter of 2011 as the higher operating income before amortization of $50.2 million due to the contribution from the new Media division and lower income taxes of $32.1 million were offset by the CRTC benefit obligation of $139.1 million and acquisition, integration and restructuring costs of $58.1 million. Net income increased by $147.0 million in the second quarter of 2011 due to the impact of the Canwest broadcasting business acquisition in the immediately preceding quarter and higher operating income before amortization and foreign exchange gain on unhedged long-term debt, the total of which was partially offset by increases in interest expense, loss on derivative instruments and income tax expense. During the third quarter of 2011, net income increased by $35.4 million due to higher operating income before amortization and a lower loss on derivative instruments partially offset by increased income taxes, a lower foreign exchange gain on unhedged long-term debt and the impact of the restructuring activities undertaken by the Company. In the fourth quarter of 2011, net income declined by $120.2 million due to lower operating income before amortization of $104.8 million and the loss of $82.4 million in respect of the wireless discontinued operations partially offset by the gain on redemption of debt and the aforementioned restructuring activities in the previous quarter. Net income increased by $24.5 million in the second quarter of 2010 mainly due to items recorded in the first quarter which included debt retirement costs of $81.6 million in respect of the US senior note redemptions, a loss on derivative instruments of $44.4 million, the one-time Part II fee recovery of $75.3 million and an income tax recovery of $17.6 million related to reductions in corporate income tax rates. During the third quarter of 2010, net income increased by $19.5 million mainly due to higher operating income before amortization and lower amortization. Net income declined by $36.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2010 due to lower operating income before amortization of $11.5 million and higher amortization expense of $14.7 million. As a result of the aforementioned changes in net income, basic and diluted earnings per share have trended accordingly.
ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
Update to critical accounting policies and estimates
The Management's Discussion and Analysis ("MD&A") included in the Company's August 31, 2010 Annual Report outlined critical accounting policies including key estimates and assumptions that management has made under these policies and how they affect the amounts reported in the Consolidated Financial Statements. The MD&A also describes significant accounting policies where alternatives exist. The unaudited interim Consolidated Financial Statements follow the same accounting policies and methods of application as the most recent annual consolidated financial statements other than as follows.
Adoption of accounting policies for Shaw Media
The following accounting policies have been adopted for the Company's new television broadcasting operations (Shaw Media).
Revenue
Subscriber revenue is recognized monthly based on subscriber levels. Advertising revenues are recognized in the period in which the advertisements are broadcast and recorded net of agency commissions as these amounts are paid directly to the agency or advertiser. When a sales arrangement includes multiple advertising spots, the proceeds are allocated to individual advertising spots under the arrangement based on relative fair values.
Program Rights and Advances
Program rights represent licensed rights acquired to broadcast television programs on the Company's conventional and specialty television channels and program advances are in respect of payments for programming prior to the window license start date. For licensed rights, the Company records a liability for program rights and corresponding asset when the license period has commenced and all of the following conditions have been met: (i) the cost of the program is known or reasonably determinable, (ii) the program material has been accepted by the Company in accordance with the license agreement and (iii) the material is available to the Company for telecast. Program rights are expensed on a systematic basis generally over the estimated exhibition period as the programs are aired and are included in operating, general and administrative expenses.
CRTC Benefit Obligations
The fair value of CRTC benefit obligations committed as part of business acquisitions are initially recorded, on a discounted basis, at the present value of amounts to be paid net of any expected incremental cash inflows. The obligation is subsequently adjusted for the incurrence of related expenditures, the passage of time and for revisions to the timing of the cash flows. Changes in the obligation due to the passage of time are recorded as accretion of long-term liabilities in the consolidated statement of income and retained earnings.
Asset Retirement Obligations
The Company recognizes the fair value of a liability for an asset retirement obligation in the period in which it is incurred, on a discounted basis, with a corresponding increase to the carrying amount of property and equipment. This cost is amortized on the same basis as the related asset. The liability is subsequently increased for the passage of time and the accretion is recorded in the income statement as accretion of long-term liabilities. Revisions due to the estimated timing of cash flows or the amount required to settle the obligation may result in an increase or decrease in the liability. Actual costs incurred upon settlement of the obligation are charged against the liability to the extent recorded.
Embedded Derivative Instruments
Derivatives embedded in other financial instruments or contracts are separated from their host contracts and separately accounted for as derivatives when their economic characteristics and risks are not closely related to the host contract, they meet the definition of a derivative and the combined instrument or contract is not measured at fair value. The Company records embedded derivatives at fair value with changes recognized in the income statement as loss/gain on derivative instruments.
Adoption of recent accounting pronouncements
Business Combinations
Effective September 1, 2010, the Company early adopted CICA Handbook Section 1582 "Business Combinations", which replaces Section 1581 "Business Combinations". The differences which arise from the new accounting standard relate to details in applying the acquisition method. The significant changes that result include (i) a change in the measurement date for equity instruments issued by the acquirer from a few days before and after the announcement date to the acquisition date, (ii) contingent consideration is recognized at fair value and subsequently remeasured at each reporting date until settled, (iii) future adjustments to income tax estimates are recorded in income whereas previously, certain changes were recorded in goodwill, (iv) acquisition related costs, other than costs to issue debt or equity instruments, and acquisition related restructuring costs must be expensed, (v) for business combinations completed in stages, identifiable net assets are recognized at fair value when control is obtained and a gain or loss is recognized for the difference in fair value and carrying value of the previously held equity interests, (vi) the fair value of identifiable assets and liabilities attributable to non-controlling interests must be recognized, and (vii) non-controlling interests are recorded at either fair value or their proportionate share of the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired.
Consolidated Financial Statements and Non-controlling Interests
Effective September 1, 2010, the Company early adopted CICA Handbook Section 1601 "Consolidated Financial Statements" and Section 1602 "Non-controlling Interests" which replace Section 1600 "Consolidated Financial Statements". The new standards provide guidance for the preparation of financial statements and accounting for a non-controlling interest in a subsidiary in consolidated financial statements subsequent to a business combination. For presentation and disclosure purposes, non-controlling interests are classified as a separate component of shareholders' equity. In addition, net income and comprehensive income is attributed to the Company's shareholders and to non-controlling interests rather than reflecting the non-controlling interests as a deduction to arrive at net income and comprehensive income.
Recent accounting pronouncements:
International Financial Reporting Standards
In February 2008, the CICA Accounting Standards Board ("AScB") confirmed that Canadian publicly accountable enterprises will be required to adopt International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS"), as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board ("IASB"), for fiscal periods beginning on or after January 1, 2011. These standards require the Company to begin reporting under IFRS in the first quarter of fiscal 2012 with comparative data for the prior year. The table below outlines the phases involved in the changeover to IFRS.
In the period leading up to the changeover, the AcSB will continue to issue accounting standards that are converged with IFRS, thus mitigating the impact of the adoption of IFRS at the changeover date. The IASB will also continue to issue new accounting standards during the conversion period and, as a result, the final impact of IFRS on the Company's consolidated financial statements will only be measured once all IFRS applicable at the conversion date are known.
The Company's adoption of IFRS will require the application of IFRS 1, First-Time Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS 1"), which provides guidance for an entity's initial adoption of IFRS. IFRS 1 generally requires that an entity apply all IFRS effective at the end of its first IFRS reporting period retrospectively. However, IFRS 1 does include certain mandatory exceptions and limited optional exemptions in specified areas of certain standards from this general requirement. Management is assessing the exemptions available under IFRS 1 and their impact on the Company's future financial position. On adoption of IFRS, the significant optional exemptions being considered by the Company are as follows:
Management is in the process of finalizing the quantitative impact of the expected material differences between IFRS and the current accounting treatment under Canadian GAAP. Set out below are the key areas where changes in accounting policies are expected to impact the Company's consolidated financial statements. The list and comments should not be regarded as a complete list of changes that will result from the transition to IFRS. It is intended to highlight those areas management believes to be most significant. However, the IASB has significant ongoing projects that could affect the ultimate differences between Canadian GAAP and IFRS and their impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements. Consequently, management's analysis of changes and policy decisions have been made based on its expectations regarding the accounting standards that we anticipate will be effective at the time of transition. The future impacts of IFRS will also depend on the particular circumstances prevailing in those years. At this stage, management is not able to reliably quantify the impacts expected on the Company's consolidated financial statements for these differences.
The following significant differences between Canadian GAAP and IFRS have been identified that are expected to impact the Company's financial statements. This is not an exhaustive list of all of the changes that could occur during the transition to IFRS. At this time, the comprehensive impact of the changeover on the Company's future financial position and results of operations is not yet determinable.
The Company continues to monitor and assess the impact of evolving differences between Canadian GAAP and IFRS, since the IASB is expected to continue to issue new accounting standards during the transition period. As a result, the final impact of IFRS on the Company's consolidated financial statements can only be measured once all the applicable IFRS at the conversion date are known.
Differences with respect to recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of financial information are expected to be in the following key accounting areas:
2012 GUIDANCE
With respect to 2012 guidance, the Company expects continued growth in revenue and operating income before amortization across all divisions. Investing in the various strategic initiatives is expected to increase capital over 2011 spend levels, excluding wireless. Combined with higher CRTC benefit obligation funding and cash taxes, including increased cash taxes related to the recent tax changes with respect to partnership deferrals, free cash flow is expected to decline moderately from 2011 and is estimated to approximate $550 million.
Certain important assumptions for 2012 guidance purposes include: continued overall customer growth; stable pricing environment for Shaw's products relative to current rates; no significant market disruption or other significant changes in economic conditions, competition or regulation that would have a material impact; stable advertising demand and rates; cash income taxes to be paid or payable in 2012; and a stable regulatory environment.
See the following section entitled "Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements".
CAUTION CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
Statements included in this Management's Discussion and Analysis that are not historic constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such statements include, but are not limited to, statements about future capital expenditures, financial guidance for future performance, business strategies and measures to implement strategies, competitive strengths, expansion and growth of Shaw's business and operations and other goals and plans. They can generally be identified by words such as "anticipate", "believe", "expect", "plan", "intend", "target", "goal" and similar expression
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Datum: 20.10.2011 - 12:30 Uhr
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