10-QPeriod: Q2 FY2006

COMCAST CORP Quarterly Report for Q2 Ended Jun 30, 2006

Filed July 28, 2006For Securities:CMCSACCZ

Summary

Comcast Corporation (CMCSA) reported solid financial results for the quarter and six months ended June 30, 2006. Total revenues increased by 11.3% and 10.7% for the respective periods, driven primarily by the Cable segment's strong performance. The Cable segment saw revenue growth across video, high-speed internet, and phone services, with notable subscriber additions in digital cable and high-speed internet. The company also announced the expected closure of significant transactions involving Adelphia and Time Warner, which are poised to add approximately 1.7 million video subscribers. Financially, the company generated strong operating income and cash flow from operations, providing resources for significant share repurchases totaling $1.4 billion in the six-month period. Long-term debt remained substantial but was managed through a mix of new issuances and repayments. Investors should note the company's ongoing investment in content and infrastructure, as well as its robust share repurchase program, signaling confidence in future performance and a commitment to returning value to shareholders.

Key Highlights

  • 1Total revenues grew by 11.3% year-over-year to $6.2 billion for the quarter and 10.7% to $12.1 billion for the six months ended June 30, 2006.
  • 2Cable segment revenue increased by 11.3% year-over-year, driven by strong performance in video (8.4% growth), high-speed internet (22.6% growth), and phone services (22.4% growth).
  • 3The company acquired Susquehanna Communications, adding approximately 230,000 video and 86,000 high-speed internet subscribers.
  • 4Significant progress was made on the proposed transactions with Adelphia and Time Warner, receiving FCC approval and expected to close by July 31, 2006, which will add approximately 1.7 million video subscribers.
  • 5Net income increased by 7.0% to $460 million for the quarter and 61.6% to $926 million for the six months, reflecting improved operational performance and the adoption of SFAS No. 123R.
  • 6Comcast repurchased approximately 49 million shares of its Class A Special common stock for approximately $1.4 billion during the six-month period.
  • 7Operating income before depreciation and amortization (OIBDA) showed robust growth, with the Cable segment up 14.1% and 13.3% for the quarter and six months, respectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

Comcast demonstrated a strong financial position. Revenues and operating income showed healthy growth, particularly in the Cable segment. The company generated significant cash flow from operations, which it used for capital expenditures, debt management, and substantial share repurchases. Despite a considerable amount of long-term debt, the company's liquidity appears robust, with substantial availability under credit facilities.

The primary growth drivers are the Cable segment's subscription services, including video (especially digital services), high-speed internet, and phone services (Comcast Digital Voice). The company also benefits from advertising sales within its Cable segment and programming revenue from its Content segment. Acquisitions, such as Susquehanna, and strategic transactions, like the pending Adelphia/Time Warner deal, are also significant growth contributors.

Comcast is nearing the completion of its joint acquisition of Adelphia Communications Corporation assets and an exchange of cable systems with Time Warner Cable. These transactions, expected to close on July 31, 2006, will significantly expand its subscriber base and geographic reach. The company also initiated the dissolution of a cable system partnership with Time Warner, with expected completion in late 2006 or early 2007.

Comcast faces competition across all its service offerings, increasing programming costs, and regulatory oversight. Technological advancements and new regulatory requirements could also impact operations. The company also faces risks associated with litigation, particularly related to past acquisitions, and the inherent risks of acquisitions and strategic transactions. Significant influence by its Chairman and CEO is also noted as a factor.