10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2006

CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS, INC. /MO/ Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Sep 30, 2006

Filed October 31, 2006For Securities:CHTR

Summary

Charter Communications, Inc. reported a net loss of $133 million for the third quarter ended September 30, 2006, a significant swing from a net income of $76 million in the same period last year. This loss was largely driven by increased operating expenses, including asset impairment charges, and a substantial decrease in "Other Income, Net" due to lower gains on debt extinguishment compared to the prior year. While revenues saw a 10% increase driven by growth in high-speed Internet and telephone subscribers, offset by a decline in analog video customers, the company's substantial debt load continues to be a primary concern, with over $18.8 billion in long-term debt outstanding. The company acknowledges that its current cash flow and available credit facilities may not be sufficient to meet obligations in 2008 and beyond, underscoring the ongoing need to manage liquidity and debt maturities. The company also made progress in managing its debt structure through significant refinancing and debt exchange transactions during the period, including the issuance of new debt securities and the exchange of existing notes. However, Charter continues to face challenges related to increasing programming costs and intense competition, particularly from direct broadcast satellite providers. The company is actively managing its asset portfolio, including the sale of certain cable systems, to bolster its financial position.

Key Highlights

  • 1Reported a net loss of $133 million for Q3 2006, compared to a net income of $76 million in Q3 2005.
  • 2Total revenues increased by 10% year-over-year to $1.388 billion, driven by growth in high-speed Internet (+20%) and telephone (+311%) services.
  • 3Analog video customers continued to decline, down by 350,000 year-over-year, while digital video customers saw a slight increase.
  • 4Long-term debt remains substantial at $18.799 billion as of September 30, 2006.
  • 5The company completed significant debt refinancing and exchange transactions during the quarter.
  • 6Asset impairment charges of $60 million were recorded related to cable systems held for sale.
  • 7Charter anticipates that cash flows may not be sufficient to meet obligations in 2008 and beyond, highlighting ongoing liquidity concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Charter reported a net loss of $133 million for the third quarter of 2006, a significant decline compared to a net income of $76 million in the same quarter of 2005. This loss was primarily driven by an increase in operating expenses, including asset impairment charges, and a notable decrease in 'Other Income, Net' due to lower gains from debt extinguishment compared to the prior year.

Total revenues increased by 10% to $1.388 billion compared to the third quarter of 2005. This growth was primarily fueled by a 20% increase in high-speed Internet subscribers and a substantial 311% increase in telephone subscribers. However, this was partially offset by a continued decline in analog video customers.

Charter carries a significant debt load, with long-term debt totaling $18.799 billion as of September 30, 2006. The company explicitly states that while cash on hand, operating cash flows, and credit facilities are expected to be adequate through 2007, they may not be sufficient to fund operations and meet interest and principal repayment obligations in 2008 and beyond. This indicates ongoing liquidity and debt management challenges.

Charter engaged in substantial debt management activities. This included refinancing credit facilities totaling $6.85 billion and completing debt exchange offers totaling approximately $797 million for Charter Holdings debt and $450 million for convertible senior notes. These actions aimed to manage the company's debt structure and maturity profile.