10-QPeriod: Q2 FY2017

CROWN CASTLE INC. Quarterly Report for Q2 Ended Jun 30, 2017

Filed August 7, 2017For Securities:CCI

Summary

Crown Castle Inc. (CCI) reported its second quarter 2017 results, showcasing robust growth primarily driven by its Small Cells segment and continued strength in its Towers business. Total revenues increased by 8% year-over-year to $1.038 billion for the quarter, and by 8% to $2.054 billion for the six months ended June 30, 2017. Net income attributable to common stockholders saw a significant jump of 49% for the quarter, reaching $112.1 million, and a 107% increase for the six-month period to $231.3 million, reflecting improved operational efficiencies and strategic acquisitions. The company's strategic focus on expanding its wireless infrastructure portfolio, particularly through acquisitions like FiberNet and Wilcon, has significantly boosted its Small Cells segment, which experienced a 53% revenue increase in the second quarter. This growth, combined with a steady 2% increase in the established Towers segment, underscores CCI's ability to capitalize on the growing demand for data and wireless connectivity. The company also highlighted its ongoing commitment to returning capital to shareholders through dividends, with plans for at least $3.80 per share in the next 12 months. Looking ahead, Crown Castle is preparing for the significant Proposed Lightower Acquisition, a transaction expected to further enhance its fiber infrastructure. The company has actively managed its capital structure, completing several debt and equity financings to support its growth initiatives and strategic acquisitions, demonstrating a proactive approach to financial management and long-term value creation for its investors.

Financial Statements
Beta
Revenue$1.04B
SG&A Expenses$98.00M
Operating Expenses$779.00M
Operating Income$259.00M
Interest Expense$139.00M
Net Income$112.00M
EPS (Basic)$0.31
EPS (Diluted)$0.31
Shares Outstanding (Basic)364.00M
Shares Outstanding (Diluted)366.00M

Key Highlights

  • 1Total revenues increased by 8% for the second quarter of 2017 to $1.038 billion, driven by growth in both Towers and Small Cells segments.
  • 2Net income attributable to CCIC common stockholders grew significantly by 49% year-over-year to $112.1 million in Q2 2017.
  • 3The Small Cells segment showed exceptional growth with a 53% increase in site rental revenues, largely due to the FiberNet acquisition and new small cell leasing.
  • 4Crown Castle completed the FiberNet acquisition in January 2017 for approximately $1.5 billion and the Wilcon acquisition in June 2017 for approximately $600 million, expanding its fiber footprint.
  • 5The company continues to return capital to shareholders, paying dividends totaling $696 million for the first six months of 2017, with plans for at least $3.80 per share over the next 12 months.
  • 6A major subsequent event is the announced Proposed Lightower Acquisition for approximately $7.1 billion, expected to close by the end of 2017, further expanding the company's fiber network.
  • 7Crown Castle proactively managed its capital structure, completing significant debt and equity financings throughout the period to fund acquisitions and general corporate purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Revenue growth was primarily driven by a substantial 53% increase in Small Cells site rental revenues, bolstered by the recent FiberNet acquisition and new small cell leasing. The Towers segment also contributed with a steady 2% increase in site rental revenues, attributed to tenant additions, lease renewals, and escalations.

The FiberNet acquisition (closed January 2017 for $1.5 billion) and the Wilcon acquisition (closed June 2017 for $600 million) significantly expanded Crown Castle's fiber network and capabilities, particularly in its Small Cells segment. These acquisitions are expected to support new small cell networks and fiber-based solutions, contributing to future revenue and growth.

Crown Castle is committed to returning value through dividends. For the first six months of 2017, the company paid approximately $696 million in common stock dividends and anticipates paying at least $3.80 per share over the next 12 months. This reflects the company's strategy of distributing a meaningful portion of its operating cash flow to stockholders.

The Proposed Lightower Acquisition, valued at approximately $7.1 billion, is a transformative transaction for Crown Castle. It is expected to significantly enhance the company's fiber network, primarily in key metropolitan areas in the Northeast. This move aligns with Crown Castle's strategy to provide comprehensive wireless infrastructure solutions and capitalize on the growing demand for data and connectivity.