ITVS offsets weak NAR: ITV H1 2017 results

3 August 2017

ITV H1 2017 results are in line with guidance contained in its Q1 trading update issued in May, while full year guidance has remained largely unaltered

The 8% decline in TV NAR, timing of programme deliveries and increased business investment were main reasons for the 8% drop in group EBITA despite growth elsewhere limiting the decline in group external revenues to 3%

ITV continues to deliver strong group profit margins of close to 30%; however, online poses several threats to TV NAR. The threats can only be increased by the quest for retransmission fees, whilst the spate of production acquisitions raises questions about risk management

Recent reports

Roaming charges to return for some: Free EU roaming an optional extra post Brexit

14 January 2021

UK mobile operators seem set to offer EU roaming on selected bundles only—a welcome new form of price differentiation.

This move is economically efficient and particularly helpful for MVNOs for whom the erstwhile arrangements were particularly punitive.

We don't envisage a return to the days of super-normal returns from roaming, but it is nonetheless conducive to much-needed price inflation in the sector.

Access report

TalkTalk: Mixed results, future opaque

14 January 2021

TalkTalk’s latest results were mixed at best, with ARPU and revenue growth improving off a low last quarter, but net adds worsening, EBITDA falling sharply and full year EBITDA guidance suspended.

Its outlook remains challenging, with the move to high speed still a drag on EBITDA, and the migration to ultrafast a further (even greater) challenge, although this brings opportunity as well, especially if the company can move away from its discount brand focus.

Its prospective new owners highlight the need to invest in brand, systems, and full fibre capabilities to meet this challenge, but it is not clear where the money to do this is coming from, and it is also not clear if the desire to ‘reposition the brand’ includes a move upmarket.

Access report

Serie A TV rights auction: Deflation looms

7 January 2021

The Italian football league launched its tender for its 2021-24 broadcasting rights, to be held on 26 January. An ill-conceived Competition Authority ruling barring Sky from buying exclusive rights undermines the licence’s value for Sky.

Serie A has set very high reserve prices, but if bidders do not meet them, two other options kick in: a sale to an ‘independent intermediary’ or appointment of a partner to launch a ‘league’s channel’—both of which look unrealistic. The process may end up in private negotiations with broadcasters.

Having no direct competitor, Sky looks likely to keep coverage of most games, but at a lower price than now. DAZN may well renew its current deal and we do not exclude Amazon stepping in.

Access report