10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2017

Globalstar, Inc. Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Sep 30, 2017

Filed November 2, 2017For Securities:GSAT

Summary

Globalstar, Inc. (GSAT) reported a net income of $52.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2017, a significant improvement from a net loss of $2.6 million in the prior year period. This positive turn was largely driven by a substantial derivative gain of $78.8 million. Total revenue for the quarter increased by 19% to $30.5 million, primarily due to higher service revenues driven by increased Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) for Duplex and SPOT services, as well as increased revenue from engineering service contracts. Despite the quarterly profit, the company's financial health remains a significant concern for investors. The company carries substantial long-term debt, totaling $466.7 million as of September 30, 2017. While the company reported improved operating cash flow for the nine-month period ($16.6 million in 2017 vs. $7.7 million in 2016), its overall financial position is characterized by ongoing operational losses over longer periods and significant leverage. The company's ability to meet its financial obligations and fund future operations heavily relies on its access to capital and continued operational improvements.

Financial Statements
Beta

Key Highlights

  • 1Revenue increased 19% to $30.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2017, driven by service revenue growth.
  • 2Achieved net income of $52.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2017, a substantial turnaround from a net loss in the prior year, largely due to a significant derivative gain.
  • 3Service revenues increased due to higher ARPU for Duplex and SPOT services and increased revenue from engineering service contracts.
  • 4Long-term debt remained substantial at $466.7 million as of September 30, 2017, though it decreased from the prior year-end.
  • 5Operating cash flow improved significantly for the nine months ended September 30, 2017, reaching $16.6 million compared to $7.7 million in the prior year.
  • 6The company secured approximately $114.8 million in net proceeds from a public stock offering in October 2017, which was primarily used to meet obligations under the Facility Agreement.
  • 7Globalstar received FCC authorization in August 2017 to provide terrestrial broadband services over its licensed satellite spectrum.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary driver of the net income of $52.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2017, was a significant derivative gain of $78.8 million. This gain offset operating losses and contributed to the positive net income for the quarter.

Total revenue increased by 19% to $30.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2017, compared to $25.6 million in the same period of 2016. This growth was primarily driven by a 22% increase in Duplex ARPU and an 11% increase in SPOT ARPU, alongside higher revenue from engineering service contracts.

Globalstar has substantial long-term debt, totaling $466.7 million as of September 30, 2017. The company is actively managing this debt, which includes a significant Facility Agreement maturing in 2022. In October 2017, the company completed a public stock offering that raised approximately $114.8 million in net proceeds, primarily to meet obligations under its Facility Agreement, indicating ongoing efforts to manage its financial leverage.

In August 2017, the FCC granted Globalstar authority to provide terrestrial broadband services over its licensed satellite spectrum. This decision opens up a new potential revenue stream and strategic opportunity for the company by allowing it to leverage its spectrum for additional services beyond traditional mobile satellite services.