10-QPeriod: Q2 FY2015

CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS, INC. /MO/ Quarterly Report for Q2 Ended Jun 30, 2015

Filed August 4, 2015For Securities:CHTR

Summary

Charter Communications, Inc. reported a net loss of $122 million for the second quarter of 2015, compared to a net loss of $45 million in the prior year's comparable quarter. This widened loss was primarily driven by a significant increase in interest expenses and a loss on debt extinguishment. Despite the net loss, the company experienced strong revenue growth of 8% year-over-year, reaching $2.43 billion, fueled by increases in residential Internet and triple-play customer subscriptions, as well as growth in commercial services. While video customer numbers saw a slight decline, this was offset by higher prices and increased uptake of advanced video services. The company is actively pursuing a transformative merger with Time Warner Cable, which, if completed, is expected to significantly alter its scale and market position. Significant debt financing has been arranged to support this transaction and the acquisition of Bright House Networks.

Financial Statements
Beta
Revenue$2.43B
Operating Expenses$2.16B
Operating Income$269.00M
Net Income-$122.00M
EPS (Basic)$-1.21
EPS (Diluted)$-1.21
Shares Outstanding (Basic)101.07M
Shares Outstanding (Diluted)101.07M

Key Highlights

  • 1Revenue increased by 8% year-over-year to $2.43 billion in Q2 2015, driven by growth in Internet and commercial services.
  • 2Net loss widened to $122 million in Q2 2015 from $45 million in Q2 2014, impacted by higher interest expenses and a loss on debt extinguishment.
  • 3The company entered into a significant merger agreement with Time Warner Cable (TWC) valued at approximately $79 billion, aiming to create a larger combined entity.
  • 4Charter also agreed to acquire Bright House Networks for approximately $2 billion in cash and convertible preferred units.
  • 5Significant debt financing totaling over $15 billion was arranged post-quarter to fund these acquisitions, with additional commitments in place.
  • 6Residential Internet customers grew by 393,000 year-over-year, indicating strong demand for broadband services.
  • 7Operating costs and expenses increased by $138 million year-over-year, largely due to higher programming costs and transition expenses related to ongoing acquisitions.

Frequently Asked Questions

In Q2 2015, Charter Communications reported an 8% increase in revenue to $2.43 billion. However, the company experienced a net loss of $122 million, an increase from the $45 million net loss in Q2 2014. This widened loss was primarily due to higher interest expenses and a significant loss on debt extinguishment.

Charter announced a definitive agreement to merge with Time Warner Cable (TWC) in a transaction valued at approximately $79 billion. Additionally, Charter is acquiring Bright House Networks for approximately $2 billion. These transactions are expected to significantly reshape the company's scale and market presence. The company has also arranged substantial debt financing to support these acquisitions.

Charter saw a continued increase in residential Internet customers, growing by 393,000 year-over-year. While residential video customers saw a slight decrease, this was offset by price adjustments and increased adoption of advanced video services. Commercial customer numbers also showed growth.

Charter has a significant amount of long-term debt. To fund the TWC and Bright House transactions, the company has arranged substantial debt financing, including $15.5 billion in senior secured notes issued shortly after the quarter ended. They also have access to credit facilities and further financing commitments.