10-KPeriod: FY2013

CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS, INC. /MO/ Annual Report, Year Ended Dec 31, 2013

Filed February 21, 2014For Securities:CHTR

Summary

Charter Communications, Inc. (CHTR) reported its 2013 full-year results, highlighting significant revenue growth of 9% to $8.2 billion, largely driven by an increase in residential Internet and triple-play customers, as well as expansion in its commercial services segment. The company continued its strategic initiative to transition to an all-digital network, aiming for completion by the end of 2014, which is expected to enable enhanced video and faster Internet services. Charter also made a significant acquisition of Bresnan Broadband Holdings, further expanding its operational footprint. Despite revenue growth, Charter continued to report a net loss, which was primarily attributed to high operating expenses, substantial interest expenses on its significant debt load, and depreciation. The company faces intense competition from DBS providers and telephone companies, putting pressure on pricing and customer retention. Management is focused on improving customer experience, growing bundled services, and expanding its commercial business to drive future growth and profitability. The company's substantial debt remains a key consideration for investors.

Financial Highlights

47 data points
Beta

Revenue

$8.15B

Net Income

-$169.00M

-2.1% Net Margin

EPS (Diluted)

$-1.65

Total Assets

$17.30B

Cash & Equivalents

$21.00M

Free Cash Flow

$333.00M

Financial Statements
Beta
Revenue$8.15B
Operating Expenses$7.25B
Operating Income$909.00M
Interest Expense$846.00M
Net Income-$169.00M
EPS (Basic)$-1.65
Shares Outstanding (Basic)101.93M

Key Highlights

  • 1Revenue increased 9% year-over-year to $8.2 billion in 2013, driven by customer growth in Internet and triple-play bundles, and expansion in commercial services.
  • 2Acquired Bresnan Broadband Holdings in July 2013 for $1.625 billion, expanding its service footprint.
  • 3Continued progress on its all-digital network transition, with expected completion by the end of 2014 to enhance HD channel offerings and internet speeds.
  • 4Reported a net loss of $169 million for 2013, primarily due to significant interest expenses and operational costs.
  • 5Maintained a substantial debt level, with total debt at approximately $14.2 billion as of December 31, 2013.
  • 6Faced intense competition from DBS and telephone companies, impacting video customer growth and contributing to pricing pressures.
  • 7Invested heavily in capital expenditures, totaling $1.8 billion in 2013, to support network upgrades and customer growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Charter reported a 9% increase in revenue to $8.2 billion in 2013, driven by customer growth in its Internet and bundled services, as well as its commercial segment. However, the company continued to experience a net loss of $169 million for the year, largely due to high operating expenses, significant interest payments on its substantial debt, and depreciation costs.

Charter faces significant competition from Direct Broadcast Satellite (DBS) providers and incumbent telephone companies that offer video, internet, and voice services, often in bundles. This competition puts pressure on customer acquisition and retention, and can impact pricing strategies and revenue growth.

Charter is focused on transitioning its network to an all-digital platform, expected to be completed by the end of 2014, which will enable more HD channels and faster internet speeds. The company is also emphasizing bundled services (triple-play), growing its commercial business, and has completed strategic acquisitions like Bresnan Broadband Holdings to expand its market reach.

Charter has a substantial debt of approximately $14.2 billion as of December 31, 2013. The company aims to manage this through generating free cash flow, utilizing available credit facilities, and exploring refinancing options. Debt covenants impose restrictions on various financial activities, including incurring additional debt and making distributions.