UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D. C. 20549
FORM
For the quarterly period ended
OR
For the transition period from to
Commission File Number
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
State of | ||
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) | (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) | |
(Address of principal executive offices) | (Zip Code) |
Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class | Trading Symbol | Name of each exchange on which registered |
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports) and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files).
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer," "smaller reporting company," and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Accelerated Filer ☐ | Non-accelerated Filer ☐ | Smaller Reporting Company | Emerging Growth Company |
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. Yes
The number of outstanding shares of Liberty Media Corporation's common stock as of October 31, 2024 was:
Series A | Series B | Series C | |||||
Liberty Formula One common stock | |||||||
Liberty Live common stock |
Table of Contents
I-2
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
(unaudited)
September 30, 2024 |
| December 31, 2023 |
| ||
amounts in millions |
| ||||
Assets | |||||
Current assets: | |||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | |
| | |
Trade and other receivables, net |
| |
| | |
Other current assets |
| |
| | |
Current assets of discontinued operations (note 2) | — | | |||
Total current assets |
| |
| | |
Investments in affiliates, accounted for using the equity method (note 7) |
| |
| | |
Property and equipment, at cost |
| |
| | |
Accumulated depreciation |
| ( |
| ( | |
| |
| | ||
Goodwill |
| |
| | |
Intangible assets subject to amortization, net |
| |
| | |
Other assets |
| |
| | |
Noncurrent assets of discontinued operations (note 2) | — | | |||
Total assets | $ | |
| | |
Liabilities and Equity | |||||
Current liabilities: | |||||
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities | $ | |
| | |
Current portion of debt, including $ | | | |||
Deferred revenue |
| |
| | |
Other current liabilities |
| |
| | |
Current liabilities of discontinued operations (note 2) | — | | |||
Total current liabilities |
| |
| | |
Long-term debt, including $ |
| |
| | |
Other liabilities |
| |
| | |
Noncurrent liabilities of discontinued operations (note 2) | — | | |||
Total liabilities | $ | |
| |
(Continued)
See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.
I-3
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Continued)
(unaudited)
| September 30, 2024 |
| December 31, 2023 |
| ||
amounts in millions, |
| |||||
except share amounts |
| |||||
Stockholders' equity: | ||||||
Preferred stock, $ | $ |
| ||||
Series A Liberty Formula One common stock, $ | — | — | ||||
Series A Liberty Live common stock, $ | ||||||
Series A Liberty SiriusXM common stock, $ | | |||||
Series B Liberty Formula One common stock, $ | ||||||
Series B Liberty Live common stock, $ | ||||||
Series B Liberty SiriusXM common stock, $ | ||||||
Series C Liberty Formula One common stock, $ | | | ||||
Series C Liberty Live common stock, $ | | | ||||
Series C Liberty SiriusXM common stock, $ | | |||||
Additional paid-in capital |
| — |
| | ||
Accumulated other comprehensive earnings (loss), net of taxes |
| ( |
| | ||
Retained earnings |
| |
| | ||
Total stockholders' equity |
| |
| | ||
Noncontrolling interests in equity of subsidiaries |
| |
| | ||
Total equity |
| |
| | ||
Commitments and contingencies (note 9) | ||||||
Total liabilities and equity | $ | |
| |
See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.
I-4
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
(unaudited)
Three months ended |
| Nine months ended |
| |||||||
September 30, | September 30, |
| ||||||||
| 2024 |
| 2023 |
| 2024 |
| 2023 |
| ||
amounts in millions, |
| |||||||||
except per share amounts |
| |||||||||
Revenue: | ||||||||||
Formula 1 revenue | $ | | | | | |||||
Other revenue |
| |
| |
| |
| | ||
Total revenue |
| |
| |
| |
| | ||
Operating costs and expenses: | ||||||||||
Cost of Formula 1 revenue (exclusive of depreciation shown separately below) | | | | | ||||||
Other cost of sales | | — | | — | ||||||
Other operating expense |
| |
| |
| |
| | ||
Selling, general and administrative, including stock-based compensation (note 4): |
| |
| |
| |
| | ||
Impairment and acquisition costs | | — | | | ||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
| |
| |
| |
| | ||
| |
| |
| |
| | |||
Operating income (loss) |
| |
| |
| |
| | ||
Other income (expense): | ||||||||||
Interest expense |
| ( |
| ( |
| ( |
| ( | ||
Share of earnings (losses) of affiliates, net (note 7) |
| |
| |
| |
| | ||
Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on financial instruments, net (note 6) |
| ( |
| |
| |
| ( | ||
Unrealized gains (losses) on intergroup interests | — | ( | — | ( | ||||||
Other, net |
| |
| ( |
| |
| | ||
| |
| |
| |
| ( | |||
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes |
| |
| |
| |
| | ||
Income tax (expense) benefit |
| ( |
| ( |
| ( |
| ( | ||
Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations |
| |
| |
| |
| | ||
Net earnings (loss) from discontinued operations (note 2) | ( | | ( | | ||||||
Net earnings (loss) | ( | | ( | | ||||||
Less net earnings (loss) attributable to the noncontrolling interests |
| ( |
| |
| ( |
| | ||
Net earnings (loss) attributable to Liberty stockholders | $ | ( |
| |
| ( |
| | ||
Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Liberty stockholders: | ||||||||||
Liberty Formula One common stock | $ | | | | | |||||
Liberty Live common stock | | ( | | ( | ||||||
Liberty SiriusXM common stock | — | | — | | ||||||
Liberty Braves common stock | NA | ( | NA | ( | ||||||
Net earnings (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to Liberty stockholders: | ||||||||||
Liberty SiriusXM common stock | ( | | ( | | ||||||
$ | ( | | ( | |
(Continued)
See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.
I-5
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Continued)
(unaudited)
Three months ended |
| Nine months ended | ||||||||
September 30, | September 30, | |||||||||
2024 |
| 2023 |
| 2024 |
| 2023 | ||||
Basic net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Liberty stockholders per common share (notes 3 and 5): | ||||||||||
Series A, B and C Liberty Formula One common stock | $ | | | | | |||||
Series A, B and C Liberty Live common stock | $ | | ( | | ( | |||||
Series A, B and C Liberty SiriusXM common stock | $ | — | | — | | |||||
Series A, B and C Liberty Braves common stock | $ | NA | ( | NA | ( | |||||
Basic net earnings (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to Liberty stockholders per common share (notes 3 and 5): | ||||||||||
Series A, B and C Liberty SiriusXM common stock | $ | ( | | ( | | |||||
Diluted net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Liberty stockholders per common share (notes 3 and 5): | ||||||||||
Series A, B and C Liberty Formula One common stock | $ | | | | | |||||
Series A, B and C Liberty Live common stock | $ | | ( | | ( | |||||
Series A, B and C Liberty SiriusXM common stock | $ | — | | — | | |||||
Series A, B and C Liberty Braves common stock | $ | NA | ( | NA | ( | |||||
Diluted net earnings (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to Liberty stockholders per common share (notes 3 and 5): | ||||||||||
Series A, B and C Liberty SiriusXM common stock | $ | ( | | ( | |
See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.
I-6
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Earnings (Loss)
(unaudited)
Three months ended | Nine months ended | |||||||||
September 30, | September 30, |
| ||||||||
| 2024 |
| 2023 |
| 2024 |
| 2023 | |||
amounts in millions | ||||||||||
Net earnings (loss) | $ | ( |
| |
| ( |
| | ||
Other comprehensive earnings (loss), net of taxes: | ||||||||||
Foreign currency translation adjustments |
| |
| ( |
| |
| | ||
Credit risk on fair value debt instruments gains (losses) |
| ( |
| |
| ( |
| | ||
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period | — | | — | — | ||||||
Share of other comprehensive earnings (loss) of equity affiliates |
| ( |
| ( |
| ( |
| | ||
Recognition of previously unrealized (gains) losses on debt | — | | — | ( | ||||||
Other comprehensive earnings (loss) from continuing operations |
| ( |
| |
| ( |
| | ||
Other comprehensive earnings (loss) from discontinued operations | ( | ( | ( | ( | ||||||
Comprehensive earnings (loss) | ( | | ( | | ||||||
Less comprehensive earnings (loss) attributable to the noncontrolling interests |
| ( |
| |
| ( |
| | ||
Comprehensive earnings (loss) attributable to Liberty stockholders | $ | ( |
| |
| ( |
| | ||
Comprehensive earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Liberty stockholders: | ||||||||||
Liberty Formula One common stock | $ | | | | | |||||
Liberty Live common stock | ( | | ( | | ||||||
Liberty SiriusXM common stock | — | | — | | ||||||
Liberty Braves common stock | NA | ( | NA | ( | ||||||
Comprehensive earnings (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to Liberty stockholders: | ||||||||||
Liberty SiriusXM common stock | ( | | ( | | ||||||
$ | ( | | ( | |
See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.
I-7
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(unaudited)
Nine months ended | ||||||
September 30, | ||||||
| 2024 |
| 2023 |
| ||
amounts in millions | ||||||
Cash flows from operating activities: | ||||||
Net earnings (loss) | $ | ( |
| | ||
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities: | ||||||
(Earnings) loss from discontinued operations | | ( | ||||
Depreciation and amortization |
| |
| | ||
Stock-based compensation |
| |
| | ||
Share of (earnings) loss of affiliates, net |
| ( |
| ( | ||
Realized and unrealized (gains) losses on financial instruments, net |
| ( |
| | ||
Unrealized (gains) losses on intergroup interests, net | — | | ||||
Deferred income tax expense (benefit) |
| |
| | ||
Intergroup tax allocation | ( | ( | ||||
Intergroup tax (payments) receipts | | | ||||
Other, net |
| |
| | ||
Changes in operating assets and liabilities | ||||||
Current and other assets |
| ( |
| ( | ||
Payables and other liabilities |
| |
| | ||
Net cash provided (used) by operating activities |
| |
| | ||
Cash flows from investing activities: | ||||||
Investments in equity method affiliates and debt and equity securities |
| ( |
| ( | ||
Cash proceeds from dispositions | | | ||||
Cash (paid) received for acquisitions, net of cash acquired | ( | |||||
Capital expended for property and equipment, including internal-use software and website development |
| ( |
| ( | ||
Other investing activities, net |
| ( |
| ( | ||
Net cash provided (used) by investing activities |
| ( |
| ( | ||
Cash flows from financing activities: | ||||||
Borrowings of debt |
| |
| | ||
Repayments of debt |
| ( |
| ( | ||
Issuance of Series C Liberty Formula One common stock | | — | ||||
Settlement of intergroup interests | — | ( | ||||
Atlanta Braves Holdings, Inc. Split-Off | — | ( | ||||
Other financing activities, net |
| |
| | ||
Net cash provided (used) by financing activities |
| |
| ( | ||
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash | | — | ||||
Net cash provided (used) by discontinued operations: | ||||||
Cash provided (used) by operating activities | | | ||||
Cash provided (used) by investing activities | ( | ( | ||||
Cash provided (used) by financing activities | ( | ( | ||||
Net cash provided (used) by discontinued operations | ( | ( | ||||
Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash |
| |
| ( | ||
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period |
| |
| | ||
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period | $ | |
| |
I-8
The following table reconciles cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash reported in our condensed consolidated balance sheets to the total amount presented in our condensed consolidated statements of cash flows:
September 30, | December 31, | |||||
2024 |
| 2023 | ||||
amounts in millions | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | | | |||
| — | |||||
Cash and cash equivalents included in current assets of discontinued operations | — | | ||||
— | | |||||
Total cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period | $ | | |
See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.
I-9
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Equity
(unaudited)
Stockholders' equity |
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
| Accumulated |
|
| Noncontrolling |
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Additional | other | interest in | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Preferred | Liberty Formula One | Liberty Live | Liberty SiriusXM | Paid-in | comprehensive | Retained | equity of | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Stock |
| Series A |
| Series B |
| Series C |
| Series A |
| Series B |
| Series C | Series A |
| Series B |
| Series C |
| Capital |
| earnings (loss) |
| earnings |
| subsidiaries |
| equity |
| |||
amounts in millions | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at January 1, 2024 | $ | — | — | — | | — | — | | | — | |
| | |
| |
| |
| | ||||||||||||
Net earnings (loss) | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| ( |
| ( |
| ( | ||||||||||||||
Other comprehensive earnings (loss) | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| — | ( |
| — |
| ( |
| ( | |||||||||||||
Liberty SiriusXM Holdings Inc. Split-Off | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ( | — | ( |
| ( | |
| — |
| ( |
| ( | |||||||||||||
Issuance of Series C Liberty Formula One common stock | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| | — |
| — |
| — |
| | |||||||||||||
Stock-based compensation |
| — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| | — |
| — |
| |
| | ||||||||||||
Withholding taxes on net share settlements of stock-based compensation | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| ( | — |
| — |
| — |
| ( | |||||||||||||
Dividends paid by subsidiary | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| — | — |
| — |
| ( | ( | ||||||||||||||
Reclassification to additional paid-in capital | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| | — |
| ( |
| — | — | ||||||||||||||
Other, net | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ( | — | ( | | | |||||||||||||||||
Balance at September 30, 2024 | $ | — | — | — | | — | — | | NA | NA | NA |
| — | ( |
| |
| | |
Stockholders' equity |
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
| Accumulated |
|
| Noncontrolling |
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Additional | other | interest in | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Preferred | Liberty Formula One | Liberty Live | Liberty SiriusXM | Paid-in | comprehensive | Retained | equity of | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Stock |
| Series A |
| Series B |
| Series C |
| Series A |
| Series B |
| Series C | Series A |
| Series B |
| Series C |
| Capital |
| earnings (loss) |
| earnings |
| subsidiaries |
| equity |
| |||
amounts in millions | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at June 30, 2024 | $ | — | — | — | | — | — | | | — | |
| | ( |
| |
| |
| | ||||||||||||
Net earnings (loss) | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| — | — |
| ( |
| ( |
| ( | |||||||||||||
Other comprehensive earnings (loss) | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| — | ( |
| — |
| — |
| ( | |||||||||||||
Liberty SiriusXM Holdings Inc. Split-Off | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ( | — | ( |
| ( | |
| — |
| ( |
| ( | |||||||||||||
Issuance of Series C Liberty Formula One common stock | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| | — |
| — |
| — |
| | |||||||||||||
Stock-based compensation |
| — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| | — |
| — |
| |
| | ||||||||||||
Withholding taxes on net share settlements of stock-based compensation | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| ( | — |
| — |
| — |
| ( | |||||||||||||
Dividends paid by subsidiary | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| — | — |
| — |
| ( | ( | ||||||||||||||
Reclassification to additional paid-in capital | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | | — | ( | — | — | |||||||||||||||||
Other, net | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| ( | — |
| ( |
| | | ||||||||||||||
Balance at September 30, 2024 | $ | — | — | — | | — | — | | NA | NA | NA |
| — | ( |
| |
| | |
See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.
I-10
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Equity
(unaudited)
Stockholders' equity |
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
| Accumulated |
|
| Noncontrolling |
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Additional | other | interest in | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Preferred | Liberty Formula One | Liberty Live | Liberty SiriusXM | Liberty Braves | Paid-in | comprehensive | Retained | equity of | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Stock |
| Series A |
| Series B |
| Series C | Series A |
| Series B |
| Series C | Series A |
| Series B |
| Series C | Series A |
| Series B |
| Series C |
| Capital |
| earnings (loss) |
| earnings |
| subsidiaries |
| equity |
| |||||
amounts in millions | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at January 1, 2023 | $ | — | — | — | | NA | NA | NA | | — | | — | — | — |
| | ( |
| |
| | | ||||||||||||||||
Net earnings (loss) | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | | | | ||||||||||||||||||||
Other comprehensive earnings (loss) | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | | — | — |
| | |||||||||||||||||||
Stock-based compensation |
| — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | | — | — | |
| | ||||||||||||||||||
Withholding taxes on net share settlements of stock-based compensation | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ( | — | — | — | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||
Shares repurchased by subsidiary |
| — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | | — | — | ( |
| ( | ||||||||||||||||||
Shares issued by subsidiary |
| — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ( | — | — | | | |||||||||||||||||||
Dividends paid by subsidiary | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||
Atlanta Braves Holdings, Inc. Split-Off | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ( | | — | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||
Formula One Distribution | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ( | — | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||
Reclassification | — | — | — | — | — | — | | — | — | — | — | — | — | ( | — | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||
Other, net | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ( | — | — | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at September 30, 2023 | $ | — | — | — | | — | — | | | — | | NA | NA | NA |
| | ( |
| |
| | |
Stockholders' equity |
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
| Accumulated |
|
| Noncontrolling |
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Additional | other | interest in | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Preferred | Liberty Formula One | Liberty Live | Liberty SiriusXM | Liberty Braves | Paid-in | comprehensive | Retained | equity of | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Stock |
| Series A |
| Series B |
| Series C | Series A |
| Series B |
| Series C | Series A |
| Series B |
| Series C | Series A |
| Series B |
| Series C |
| Capital |
| earnings (loss) |
| earnings |
| subsidiaries |
| equity |
| |||||
amounts in millions | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at June 30, 2023 | $ | — | — | — | | NA | NA | NA | | — | | — | — | — |
| | ( |
| |
| | | ||||||||||||||||
Net earnings (loss) | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | | | | ||||||||||||||||||||
Other comprehensive earnings (loss) | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | | — | ( |
| | |||||||||||||||||||
Stock-based compensation |
| — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | | — | — | |
| | ||||||||||||||||||
Withholding taxes on net share settlements of stock-based compensation | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ( | — | — | — | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||
Shares repurchased by subsidiary |
| — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | | — | — | ( |
| ( | ||||||||||||||||||
Shares issued by subsidiary |
| — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ( | — | — | | | |||||||||||||||||||
Dividends paid by subsidiary | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||
Atlanta Braves Holdings, Inc. Split-Off | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ( | | — | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||
Formula One Distribution | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ( | — | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||
Reclassification | — | — | — | — | — | — | | — | — | — | — | — | — | ( | — | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||
Other, net | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | | — | — | — | | ||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at September 30, 2023 | $ | — | — | — | | — | — | | | — | | NA | NA | NA |
| | ( |
| |
| | |
See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.
I-11
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
(1) Basis of Presentation
The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements include all the accounts of Liberty Media Corporation and its controlled subsidiaries (“Liberty,” the “Company,” “we,” “us,” or “our” unless the context otherwise requires). All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
Liberty, through its ownership of interests in subsidiaries and other companies, is primarily engaged in the media and entertainment industries primarily in North America and the United Kingdom. Liberty’s most significant subsidiary is Delta Topco Limited (the parent company of Formula 1). Our most significant investment accounted for under the equity method is Live Nation Entertainment, Inc. (“Live Nation”).
Braves Holdings, LLC (“Braves Holdings”) was a subsidiary of the Company until the Atlanta Braves Holdings Split-Off (as defined in note 3) on July 18, 2023. Braves Holdings is not presented as a discontinued operation in the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements as the Atlanta Braves Holdings Split-Off did not represent a strategic shift that had a major effect on the Company’s operations and financial results.
Sirius XM Holdings Inc. (“Sirius XM Holdings”) was a subsidiary of the Company until the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off (as defined in note 2) on September 9, 2024. Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Inc. (“Liberty Sirius XM Holdings”), which includes Sirius XM Holdings, is presented as a discontinued operation in the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements. See note 2 for details of the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off.
The accompanying (a) condensed consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2023, which has been derived from audited financial statements, and (b) the interim unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) for interim financial information and the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X as promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary for a fair presentation of the results for such periods have been included. The results of operations for any interim period are not necessarily indicative of results for the full year. Additionally, certain prior period amounts have been reclassified for comparability with current period presentation. These condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto contained in Liberty's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023.
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The Company considers (i) fair value measurement of non-financial instruments and (ii) accounting for income taxes to be its most significant estimates.
Liberty holds investments that are accounted for using the equity method. Liberty does not control the decision making process or business management practices of these affiliates. Accordingly, Liberty relies on management of these affiliates to provide it with accurate financial information prepared in accordance with GAAP that the Company uses in the application of the equity method. In addition, Liberty relies on audit reports that are provided by the affiliates’ independent auditors on the financial statements of such affiliates. The Company is not aware, however, of any errors in or possible misstatements of the financial information provided by its equity affiliates that would have a material effect on Liberty's condensed consolidated financial statements.
On January 2, 2024, the Company purchased QuintEvents, LLC (“QuintEvents”) for total consideration of approximately $
I-12
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(unaudited)
subject to amortization, net and $
On March 29, 2024, the Company agreed, subject to certain conditions, to acquire approximately
On August 22, 2024, the Company issued approximately
Liberty has entered into certain agreements with Qurate Retail, Inc. (“Qurate Retail”), Liberty TripAdvisor Holdings, Inc. (“TripCo”), Liberty Broadband Corporation (“Liberty Broadband”) and Atlanta Braves Holdings, Inc. (“Atlanta Braves Holdings”), all of which are separate publicly traded companies, in order to govern relationships between the companies. None of these entities has any stock ownership, beneficial or otherwise, in any of the others. These agreements include Reorganization Agreements (in the case of Qurate Retail, Liberty Broadband and Atlanta Braves Holdings only), Services Agreements, Facilities Sharing Agreements, Tax Sharing Agreements (in the case of Liberty Broadband and Atlanta Braves Holdings only) and Aircraft Time Sharing Agreements. In addition, as a result of certain corporate transactions, Liberty and Qurate Retail may have obligations to each other for certain tax related matters. Effective August 31, 2024, the Facilities Sharing Agreement and the Aircraft Time Sharing Agreement with Atlanta Braves Holdings was terminated and members of Liberty management that served as officers of Atlanta Braves Holdings stepped down from their positions with Atlanta Braves Holdings (with limited exceptions), even though they may continue to provide services on an as-needed basis.
The Reorganization Agreements provide for, among other things, provisions governing the relationships between Liberty and each of Qurate Retail, Liberty Broadband and Atlanta Braves Holdings, including certain cross-indemnities. Pursuant to the Services Agreements, Liberty provides Qurate Retail, TripCo, Liberty Broadband and Atlanta Braves Holdings with general and administrative services including legal, tax, accounting, treasury, information technology, cybersecurity and investor relations support. Qurate Retail, TripCo, Liberty Broadband and Atlanta Braves Holdings reimburse Liberty for direct, out-of-pocket expenses incurred by Liberty in providing these services and, in the case of Qurate Retail, Qurate Retail's allocable portion of costs associated with any shared services or personnel based on an estimated percentage of time spent providing services to Qurate Retail. TripCo, Liberty Broadband and Atlanta Braves Holdings reimburse Liberty for shared services and personnel based on a flat fee. Under the Facilities Sharing Agreements, Liberty shares office space and related amenities at its corporate headquarters with Qurate Retail, TripCo, Liberty Broadband and, until August 31, 2024, Atlanta Braves Holdings. Under these various agreements, approximately $
In connection with Liberty’s employment arrangement with Gregory B. Maffei, Liberty’s President and Chief Executive Officer, pursuant to the Services Agreements between Liberty and each of TripCo, Liberty Broadband, Qurate Retail and Atlanta Braves Holdings (collectively, the “Service Companies”), components of Mr. Maffei's compensation are either paid directly to him by each Service Company or reimbursed to Liberty, in each case, based on allocations among Liberty and the Service Companies set forth in the respective services agreement, which are subject to adjustment on an annual basis and upon the occurrence of certain events. Effective August 31, 2024, upon the effectiveness of Mr. Maffei’s resignation as an officer of Atlanta Braves Holdings, Mr. Maffei no longer receives compensation from Atlanta Braves Holdings.
I-13
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(unaudited)
Seasonality
Formula 1 recognizes the majority of its revenue and expenses in connection with World Championship race events (“Events”) that take place in different countries around the world throughout the year. The Events in the past have generally taken place between March and December each year. As a result, the revenue and expenses recognized by Formula 1 are generally lower during the first quarter as compared to the rest of the quarters throughout the year.
QuintEvents’ revenue is seasonal around its largest events, which are generally during the second and fourth quarters.
Braves Holdings revenue was seasonal, for the periods included herein, with the majority of revenue recognized during the second and third quarters which aligns with the baseball season.
(2) Discontinued Operations
On September 9, 2024, Liberty completed the split-off of its wholly owned subsidiary, Liberty Sirius XM Holdings (the “Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off”). The Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off was accomplished through the redemption by the Company of each outstanding share of Liberty SiriusXM common stock in exchange for
Following the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off, on September 9, 2024, a wholly owned subsidiary of Liberty Sirius XM Holdings merged with and into Sirius XM Holdings, with Sirius XM Holdings surviving the merger as a wholly owned subsidiary of Liberty Sirius XM Holdings (the “Merger” and, together with the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off, the “Transactions”). As a result of the Transactions, Liberty Sirius XM Holdings is an independent public company separate from Liberty.
As disclosed in note 1, Liberty Sirius XM Holdings is presented as a discontinued operation in the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements as the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off represents a strategic shift that had a major effect on the Company’s operations and financial results.
I-14
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(unaudited)
The following table presents a reconciliation of the carrying amounts of the major classes of assets and liabilities of discontinued operations to the total assets and liabilities of discontinued operations as presented in the condensed consolidated balance sheet.
| December 31, 2023 | |||
amounts in millions | ||||
Assets | ||||
Current assets | $ | | ||
Investments in affiliates, accounted for using the equity method |
| | ||
Property and equipment, net |
| | ||
Intangible assets not subject to amortization | | |||
Intangible assets subject to amortization, net |
| | ||
Other assets |
| | ||
Total assets | $ | | ||
Liabilities | ||||
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities | $ | | ||
Current portion of debt | | |||
Other current liabilities |
| | ||
Long-term debt |
| | ||
Deferred income tax liabilities |
| | ||
Other liabilities |
| | ||
Total liabilities | $ | |
I-15
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(unaudited)
The following table provided details about the major classes of line items constituting earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax as presented in the condensed consolidated statements of operations.
Three months ended |
| Nine months ended | ||||||||
September 30, | September 30, | |||||||||
| 2024 |
| 2023 |
| 2024 |
| 2023 | |||
amounts in millions | ||||||||||
Revenue | $ | |
| |
| |
| | ||
Cost of Sirius XM Holdings services (exclusive of depreciation shown separately below) | | | | | ||||||
Operating expense |
| |
| |
| |
| | ||
Selling, general and administrative |
| |
| |
| |
| | ||
Impairment, restructuring and acquisition costs | | | | | ||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
| |
| |
| |
| | ||
| |
| |
| |
| | |||
Operating income (loss) |
| ( |
| |
| ( |
| | ||
Other income (expense): | ||||||||||
Interest expense |
| ( |
| ( |
| ( |
| ( | ||
Other, net |
| |
| ( |
| |
| | ||
| ( |
| ( |
| ( |
| ( | |||
Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations before income taxes |
| ( |
| |
| ( |
| | ||
Income tax (expense) benefit |
| |
| ( |
| ( |
| ( | ||
Net earnings (loss) from discontinued operations |
| ( |
| |
| ( |
| | ||
Less net earnings (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to the noncontrolling interests |
| ( |
| |
| ( |
| | ||
Net earnings (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to Liberty stockholders | $ | ( |
| |
| ( |
| |
(3) Tracking Stocks
A tracking stock is a type of common stock that the issuing company intends to reflect or "track" the economic performance of a particular business or "group," rather than the economic performance of the company as a whole.
On July 18, 2023, the Company completed the split-off of its wholly owned subsidiary, Atlanta Braves Holdings (the “Atlanta Braves Holdings Split-Off”). The Atlanta Braves Holdings Split-Off was accomplished by a redemption by the Company of each outstanding share of Liberty Braves common stock in exchange for
On August 3, 2023, the Company reclassified its then-outstanding shares of common stock into
I-16
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(unaudited)
connection therewith, provided for the attribution of the businesses, assets and liabilities of the Company’s remaining tracking stock groups among its newly created Liberty SiriusXM Group, Formula One Group and Liberty Live Group (the “Reclassification”). As a result of the Reclassification, each then-outstanding share of Liberty SiriusXM common stock was reclassified into
Each of the Atlanta Braves Holdings Split-Off and the Reclassification were intended to be tax-free to stockholders of the Company, except with respect to the receipt of cash in lieu of fractional shares. In July 2024, the IRS completed its review of the Reclassification and notified the Company that it agreed with the nontaxable characterization of the transaction. In September 2024, the IRS completed its review of the Atlanta Braves Holdings Split-Off and notified the Company that it agreed with the nontaxable characterization of the transaction. The Atlanta Braves Holdings Split-Off and the Reclassification are reflected in the Company’s consolidated financial statements on a prospective basis.
While the Formula One Group and the Liberty Live Group have separate collections of businesses, assets and liabilities attributed to them, no group is a separate legal entity and therefore cannot own assets, issue securities or enter into legally binding agreements. Holders of tracking stock have no direct claim to the group's stock or assets and therefore, do not own, by virtue of their ownership of a Liberty tracking stock, any equity or voting interest in a public company, such as Live Nation, in which Liberty holds an interest that is attributed to a Liberty tracking stock group, the Liberty Live Group. Holders of tracking stock are also not represented by separate boards of directors. Instead, holders of tracking stock are stockholders of the parent corporation, with a single board of directors and subject to all of the risks and liabilities of the parent corporation.
The Liberty Formula One common stock is intended to track and reflect the separate economic performance of the businesses, assets and liabilities attributed to the Formula One Group, which as of September 30, 2024, include Liberty’s interests in Formula 1 and QuintEvents, cash and Liberty’s
The Liberty Live common stock is intended to track and reflect the separate economic performance of the businesses, assets and liabilities attributed to the Liberty Live Group. As of September 30, 2024, the Liberty Live Group is comprised of Liberty’s interest in Live Nation, cash, other minority investments, Liberty’s
Prior to the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off, the Liberty SiriusXM common stock was intended to track and reflect the separate economic performance of the businesses, assets and liabilities attributed to the Liberty SiriusXM Group. At the time of the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off, the Liberty SiriusXM Group was comprised of Liberty’s interest in Sirius XM Holdings, corporate cash, Liberty’s
Prior to the Atlanta Braves Holdings Split-Off, the Liberty Braves common stock was intended to track and reflect the separate economic performance of the businesses, assets and liabilities attributed to the Braves Group. The Braves Group was comprised primarily of Braves Holdings, which indirectly owns the Atlanta Braves Major League Baseball
I-17
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(unaudited)
Club (“ANLBC”), certain assets and liabilities associated with ANLBC’s stadium (the “Stadium”) and a mixed-use development around the Stadium that features retail, office, hotel and entertainment opportunities and corporate cash.
See Exhibit 99.1 to this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for unaudited attributed financial information for Liberty's tracking stock groups.
(4) Stock-Based Compensation
Liberty grants, to certain of its directors, employees and employees of its subsidiaries, restricted stock, restricted stock units (“RSUs”) and stock options to purchase shares of its common stock (collectively, "Awards"). The Company measures the cost of employee services received in exchange for an equity classified Award (such as stock options and restricted stock) based on the grant-date fair value (“GDFV”) of the Award, and recognizes that cost over the period during which the employee is required to provide service (usually the vesting period of the Award). The Company measures the cost of employee services received in exchange for a liability classified Award based on the current fair value of the Award, and remeasures the fair value of the Award at each reporting date. Stock-based compensation expense, included in selling, general and administrative expense in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations, was $
Liberty—Grants of Awards
Options granted during the nine months ended September 30, 2024 are summarized as follows:
Nine Months Ended | |||||
September 30, 2024 | |||||
Options | Weighted | ||||
granted | average | ||||
(000's) | GDFV | ||||
Series C Liberty Formula One common stock, Liberty employees and directors (1) | | $ | | ||
Series C Liberty Formula One common stock, subsidiary employees (2) | | $ | | ||
Series C Liberty Live common stock, Liberty employees and directors (1) | | $ | | ||
Series C Liberty Live common stock, Liberty CEO (3) | $ |
(1) | Grants vest over |
(2) | Grants mainly vest in equal installments over 2024. |
(3) | Grant cliff vests on December 31, 2024. Grant was made in connection with the CEO’s employment agreement. |
The Company did not grant
to purchase Series A or Series B Liberty Formula One or common stock during the nine months ended September 30, 2024.Also during the nine months ended September 30, 2024, the Company granted
Liberty calculates the GDFV for all of its equity classified options and the subsequent remeasurement of its liability classified options using the Black-Scholes Model. Liberty estimates the expected term of the options based on historical
I-18
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(unaudited)
exercise and forfeiture data. The volatility used in the calculation for options is based on the historical volatility of Liberty common stock and, when available, the implied volatility of publicly traded Liberty options. Liberty uses a
Liberty—Outstanding Awards
The following tables present the number and weighted average exercise price ("WAEP") of options to purchase Liberty common stock granted to certain officers, employees and directors of the Company, as well as the weighted average remaining life and aggregate intrinsic value of the options.
Liberty Formula One
Series C | |||||||||||
|
|
| Weighted |
| Aggregate | ||||||
average | intrinsic | ||||||||||
Liberty | remaining | value | |||||||||
options (000's) | WAEP | life | (millions) | ||||||||
Outstanding at January 1, 2024 | | $ | | ||||||||
Granted | | $ | | ||||||||
Exercised | ( | $ | | ||||||||
Forfeited/Cancelled | — | $ | — | ||||||||
Outstanding at September 30, 2024 | | $ | | years | $ | | |||||
Exercisable at September 30, 2024 | | $ | |
| years | $ | |
Liberty Live
Series C | |||||||||||
|
|
| Weighted |
| Aggregate | ||||||
average | intrinsic | ||||||||||
Liberty | remaining | value | |||||||||
options (000's) | WAEP | life | (millions) | ||||||||
Outstanding at January 1, 2024 | | $ | | ||||||||
Granted | | $ | | ||||||||
Exercised | ( | $ | | ||||||||
Forfeited/Cancelled | ( | $ | | ||||||||
Outstanding at September 30, 2024 | | $ | | years | $ | | |||||
Exercisable at September 30, 2024 | | $ | |
| years | $ | |
As of September 30, 2024, there were
As of September 30, 2024, the total unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested Awards was approximately $
As of September 30, 2024, Liberty reserved
I-19
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(unaudited)
(5) Earnings Attributable to Liberty Media Corporation Stockholders Per Common Share
Basic earnings (loss) per common share ("EPS") is computed by dividing net earnings (loss) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding (“WASO”) for the period. Diluted EPS presents the dilutive effect on a per share basis of potential common shares as if they had been converted at the beginning of the periods presented, including any necessary adjustments to earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders.
Excluded from diluted EPS for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 are approximately
Series A, Series B and Series C Liberty Formula One Common Stock
The basic and diluted EPS calculations are based on the following WASO.
Three months ended September 30, | Nine months ended September 30, | ||||||||
2024 |
| 2023 |
| 2024 | 2023 | ||||
numbers of shares in millions | |||||||||
Basic WASO |
| |
| | | | |||
Potentially dilutive shares (a) |
| |
| | | | |||
Diluted WASO (b) |
| |
| | | |
(a) | Potentially dilutive shares are excluded from the computation of diluted EPS during periods in which losses are reported since the result would be antidilutive. |
(b) | The Liberty SiriusXM Group’s intergroup interest in the Formula One Group was settled and extinguished on July 12, 2023. The intergroup interest was a quasi-equity interest which was not represented by outstanding shares of common stock; rather, the Liberty SiriusXM Group had an attributed value in the Formula One Group which was generally stated in terms of a number of shares of stock issuable to the Liberty SiriusXM Group with respect to its interest in the Formula One Group. Each reporting period, the notional shares representing the intergroup interest were marked to fair value. As the notional shares underlying the intergroup interest were not represented by outstanding shares of common stock, such shares had not been officially designated Series A, B or C Liberty Formula One common stock. However, Liberty assumed that the notional shares (if and when issued) would be comprised of Series A Liberty Formula One common stock since Series A Liberty Formula One common stock was underlying the |
I-20
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(unaudited)
earnings per share calculation for the unrealized gain or loss incurred from marking the intergroup interest to fair value during the period. |
For periods in which share settlement of the
Three months ended September 30, | Nine months ended September 30, | ||||||||
2024 |
| 2023 |
| 2024 |
| 2023 | |||
| amounts in millions | ||||||||
Basic earnings (loss) attributable to Liberty Formula One stockholders | $ | | | | | ||||
Adjustments | — | ( | — | ( | |||||
Diluted earnings (loss) attributable to Liberty Formula One stockholders | $ | | | | |
Series A, Series B and Series C Liberty Live Common Stock
The basic and diluted EPS calculations are based on the following WASO.
Three months ended | August 4, 2023 to | Nine months ended | August 4, 2023 to | ||||||
September 30, 2024 |
| September 30, 2023 |
| September 30, 2024 | September 30, 2023 | ||||
numbers of shares in millions | |||||||||
Basic WASO |
| |
| | | | |||
Potentially dilutive shares (a) |
| — |
| — | — | — | |||
Diluted WASO |
| |
| | | |
(a) | Potentially dilutive shares are excluded from the computation of diluted EPS during periods in which losses are reported since the result would be antidilutive. |
I-21
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(unaudited)
Series A, Series B and Series C Liberty SiriusXM Common Stock
The basic and diluted EPS calculations are based on the following WASO.
July 1, 2024 to | Three months ended | January 1, 2024 to | Nine months ended | ||||||
September 9, 2024 |
| September 30, 2023 |
| September 9, 2024 |
| September 30, 2023 | |||
numbers of shares in millions | |||||||||
Basic WASO |
| |
| | | | |||
Potentially dilutive shares (a) |
| — |
| | | | |||
Diluted WASO (b) |
| |
| | | |
(a) | Potentially dilutive shares are excluded from the computation of EPS during periods in which net losses are reported since the result would be antidilutive. |
(b) | For periods in which share settlement of the |
Additionally, a hypothetical mark-to-market adjustment on the shares of Series A Liberty SiriusXM common stock underlying the warrants was included in the numerator adjustment in periods in which cash settlement of the warrants would have been more dilutive than share settlement.
July 1, 2024 to | Three months ended | January 1, 2024 to | Nine months ended | ||||||
September 9, 2024 |
| September 30, 2023 |
| September 9, 2024 |
| September 30, 2023 | |||
| amounts in millions | ||||||||
Basic earnings (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to Liberty SiriusXM stockholders | $ | ( | | ( | | ||||
Adjustments | — | | ( | | |||||
Diluted earnings (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to Liberty SiriusXM stockholders | $ | ( | | ( | |
I-22
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(unaudited)
Series A, Series B and Series C Liberty Braves Common Stock
The basic and diluted EPS calculations are based on the following WASO.
Three months ended | July 1, 2023 to | Nine months ended | January 1, 2023 to | ||||||
September 30, 2024 |
| July 18, 2023 |
| September 30, 2024 |
| July 18, 2023 | |||
numbers of shares in millions | |||||||||
Basic WASO |
| NA |
| | NA | | |||
Potentially dilutive shares (a) |
| NA |
| — | NA | | |||
Diluted WASO |
| NA |
| | NA | |
(a) | Potentially dilutive shares are excluded from the computation of diluted EPS during periods in which losses are reported since the result would be antidilutive. |
(6) Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value
For assets and liabilities required to be reported at fair value, GAAP provides a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value into three broad levels. Level 1 inputs are quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the reporting entity has the ability to access at the measurement date. Level 2 inputs are inputs, other than quoted market prices included within Level 1, that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability. Liberty does not have any assets or liabilities required to be measured at fair value considered to be Level 3.
Liberty's assets and liabilities measured at fair value are as follows:
Fair Value Measurements at | Fair Value Measurements at | |||||||||||||
September 30, 2024 | December 31, 2023 | |||||||||||||
|
| Quoted |
|
|
| Quoted |
|
| ||||||
prices | prices | |||||||||||||
in active | Significant | in active | Significant | |||||||||||
markets | other | markets | other | |||||||||||
for identical | observable | for identical | observable | |||||||||||
assets | inputs | assets | inputs | |||||||||||
Description | Total | (Level 1) | (Level 2) | Total | (Level 1) | (Level 2) | ||||||||
amounts in millions | ||||||||||||||
Cash equivalents | $ | |
| |
| — |
| |
| |
| — | ||
Debt and equity securities | $ | — |
| — |
| — |
| |
| |
| — | ||
Financial instrument assets | $ | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| | ||
Debt | $ | |
| — |
| |
| |
| — |
| |
The majority of Liberty's Level 2 financial instruments are debt related instruments and derivative instruments, which include foreign currency forward contracts and interest rate swaps. These assets and liabilities are not always traded publicly or not considered to be traded on "active markets," as defined in GAAP. The fair values for such instruments are derived from a typical model using observable market data as the significant inputs or a trading price of a similar asset or liability is utilized. Accordingly, those debt securities, financial instruments and debt or debt related instruments are reported in the foregoing table as Level 2 fair value. As of December 31, 2023, debt and equity securities included in the table above are included in the Other assets line item in the condensed consolidated balance sheet. As of September 30, 2024, $
I-23
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(unaudited)
2023, financial instrument assets included in the table above are included in the Other assets line item in the condensed consolidated balance sheet.
Realized and Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Financial Instruments, net
Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on financial instruments, net is comprised of changes in the fair value of the following:
Three months ended | Nine months ended | |||||||||
September 30, | September 30, | |||||||||
| 2024 |
| 2023 |
| 2024 |
| 2023 |
| ||
amounts in millions | ||||||||||
Debt and equity securities | $ | — |
| |
| |
| | ||
Foreign currency forward contracts | | — | | — | ||||||
Debt measured at fair value (a) | ( | | ( | ( | ||||||
Other |
| ( |
| |
| |
| | ||
$ | ( |
| |
| |
| ( |
(a) | The Company elected to account for its exchangeable senior debentures and convertible notes (as described in note 8) using the fair value option. Changes in the fair value of the exchangeable senior debentures and convertible notes recognized in the condensed consolidated statements of operations are due to market factors primarily driven by changes in the fair value of the underlying shares into which the debt is exchangeable. The Company isolates the portion of the unrealized gain (loss) attributable to changes in the instrument specific credit risk and recognizes such amount in other comprehensive earnings (loss). The change in the fair value of the exchangeable senior debentures and convertible notes attributable to changes in the instrument specific credit risk was a loss of $ |
I-24
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(unaudited)
(7) Investments in Affiliates Accounted for Using the Equity Method
Liberty has various investments accounted for using the equity method. The following table includes the Company's carrying amount and percentage ownership of the more significant investments in affiliates at September 30, 2024 and the carrying amount at December 31, 2023:
September 30, 2024 | December 31, 2023 | ||||||||||
| Percentage |
| Fair Value |
| Carrying |
| Carrying |
| |||
ownership | (Level 1) | amount | amount | ||||||||
dollar amounts in millions | |||||||||||
Formula One Group | |||||||||||
Other |
| various |
| NA | $ | |
| | |||
Total Formula One Group | | | |||||||||
Liberty Live Group | |||||||||||
Live Nation | | % | $ | | | | |||||
Other | NA | | | ||||||||
Total Liberty Live Group | | | |||||||||
Consolidated Liberty | $ | |
| |
The following table presents the Company's share of earnings (losses) of affiliates:
Three months ended | Nine months ended | |||||||||
September 30, | September 30, | |||||||||
| 2024 |
| 2023 |
| 2024 |
| 2023 |
| ||
amounts in millions | ||||||||||
Formula One Group | ||||||||||
Other (a) | $ | ( |
| |
| ( |
| ( | ||
Total Formula One Group | ( | | ( | ( | ||||||
Liberty Live Group | ||||||||||
Live Nation (a) | | | | | ||||||
Other (a) | — | — | | — | ||||||
Total Liberty Live Group | | | | | ||||||
Liberty SiriusXM Group | ||||||||||
Live Nation (a) | NA | | NA | | ||||||
Total Liberty Sirius XM Group | NA | | NA | | ||||||
Braves Group | ||||||||||
Other | NA |
| | NA | | |||||
Total Braves Group | NA | | NA | | ||||||
Consolidated Liberty | $ | |
| |
| |
| |
(a) | Liberty’s interests in Live Nation and certain other equity affiliates were reattributed to the Liberty Live Group effective August 3, 2023. |
I-25
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(unaudited)
Live Nation
Live Nation is considered the world’s leading live entertainment company and seeks to innovate and enhance the live entertainment experience for artists and fans before, during and after the show. See note 8 for details regarding the number and fair value of shares pledged as collateral as of September 30, 2024 pursuant to the Live Nation Margin Loan.
Summarized financial information for Live Nation is as follows:
Balance Sheets
| September 30, 2024 |
| December 31, 2023 |
| ||
amounts in millions | ||||||
Current assets | $ | |
| |
| |
Property, plant and equipment, net |
| |
| |
| |
Intangible assets | | | ||||
Goodwill |
| |
| |
| |
Investments in affiliates | | | ||||
Other assets | | | ||||
Total assets | $ | |
| |
| |
Current liabilities | $ | | | |||
Long-term debt, net | | | ||||
Other liabilities | | | ||||
Redeemable noncontrolling interests | | | ||||
Equity | | | ||||
Total liabilities and equity | $ | | |
Statements of Operations
Three months ended | Nine months ended | |||||||||
September 30, | September 30, | |||||||||
2024 |
| 2023 |
| 2024 | 2023 | |||||
amounts in millions | ||||||||||
Revenue | $ |
|
| |||||||
Operating expenses: |
| |||||||||
Direct operating expenses | ||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses |
|
|
| |||||||
Depreciation and amortization | ||||||||||
Other operating expenses | ||||||||||
|
| |||||||||
Operating income (loss) | ||||||||||
Interest expense | ( | ( | ( | ( | ||||||
Other income (expense), net | ||||||||||
Earnings (loss) before income taxes | ||||||||||
Income tax (expense) benefit | ( | ( | ( | ( | ||||||
Net earnings (loss) | ||||||||||
Less net earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests | ||||||||||
Net earnings (loss) attributable to Live Nation stockholders | $ |
I-26
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(unaudited)
(8) Long-Term Debt
Debt is summarized as follows:
Outstanding | Carrying value | ||||||||
| Principal |
| September 30, |
| December 31, |
| |||
September 30, 2024 | 2024 | 2023 | |||||||
amounts in millions | |||||||||
Formula One Group | |||||||||
Corporate level notes and loans: | |||||||||
| | | |||||||
Other | | | | ||||||
Subsidiary notes and loans: | |||||||||
Formula 1 Senior Loan Facilities | | | | ||||||
Deferred financing costs | ( | ( | |||||||
Total Formula One Group | | | | ||||||
Liberty Live Group | |||||||||
Corporate level notes and loans: | |||||||||
| | | |||||||
| | | |||||||
Live Nation Margin Loan | — | — | — | ||||||
Total Liberty Live Group | | | | ||||||
Total debt | $ | |
| |
| | |||
Debt classified as current |
| ( |
| ( | |||||
Total long-term debt | $ | |
| |
(1) Measured at fair value
On August 12, 2022, Liberty issued $
In November 2020, Liberty closed a private offering of approximately $
I-27
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(unaudited)
September 1, 2024. Accordingly, the
In September 2023, Liberty closed a private offering of approximately $
Live Nation Margin Loan
On May 9, 2022, the Live Nation Margin Loan agreement was amended, replacing a delayed draw term loan with a $
Formula 1 Senior Loan Facilities
On November 23, 2022, Formula 1 refinanced its previous Term Loan B and revolving credit facility with a new $
I-28
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(unaudited)
“Senior Loan Facilities”). The Term Loan A and revolving credit facility mature on September 30, 2029 and the Term Loan B matures on September 30, 2031. As of September 30, 2024, there were
In connection with the September 19, 2024 refinancing, Formula 1 also marketed an incremental $
Debt Covenants
The Formula 1 Senior Loan Facilities contain certain financial covenants, including a leverage ratio. Additionally, Formula 1’s debt and other borrowings contain certain non-financial covenants.
Fair Value of Debt
Due to the variable rate nature of the Live Nation Margin Loan and other debt, the Company believes that the carrying amount approximates fair value at September 30, 2024.
(9) Commitments and Contingencies
Guarantees
In connection with agreements for the sale of assets by the Company or its subsidiaries, the Company may retain liabilities that relate to events occurring prior to its sale, such as tax, environmental, litigation and employment matters. The Company generally indemnifies the purchaser in the event that a third party asserts a claim against the purchaser that relates to a liability retained by the Company. These types of indemnification obligations may extend for a number of years. The Company is unable to estimate the maximum potential liability for these types of indemnification obligations as the sale agreements may not specify a maximum amount and the amounts are dependent upon the outcome of future contingent events, the nature and likelihood of which cannot be determined at this time. Historically, the Company has not made any significant indemnification payments under such agreements and no amount has been accrued in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements with respect to these indemnification guarantees.
I-29
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(unaudited)
Litigation
The Company has contingent liabilities related to legal and tax proceedings and other matters arising in the ordinary course of business. Although it is reasonably possible the Company may incur losses upon conclusion of such matters, an estimate of any loss or range of loss cannot be made. In the opinion of management, it is expected that amounts, if any, which may be required to satisfy such contingencies will not be material in relation to the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements.
(10) Information About Liberty's Operating Segments
The Company, through its ownership interests in subsidiaries and other companies, is primarily engaged in the media and entertainment industries. The Company identifies its reportable segments as (A) those consolidated subsidiaries that represent 10% or more of its consolidated annual revenue, annual Adjusted OIBDA (as defined below) or total assets and (B) those equity method affiliates whose share of earnings represent 10% or more of the Company's annual pre-tax earnings.
Liberty’s chief operating decision maker evaluates performance and makes decisions about allocating resources to the Company’s reportable segments based on financial measures such as revenue and Adjusted OIBDA (as defined below). In addition, the Company reviews nonfinancial measures such as subscriber growth, churn and penetration.
For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, the Company identified Formula 1 as a reportable segment. Formula 1 is a global motorsports business that holds exclusive commercial rights with respect to the World Championship, an annual, approximately
As of December 31, 2023, Live Nation met the Company’s reportable segment threshold for equity method affiliates. See note 7 for segment disclosures related to Live Nation.
The Company's reportable segments are strategic business units that offer different products and services. They are managed separately because each segment requires different technologies, differing revenue sources and marketing strategies. The significant accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in the Company's summary of significant policies in the Company's annual financial statements filed on Form 10-K.
I-30
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(unaudited)
Performance Measures
The following table disaggregates revenue by segment and by source:
Three months ended | Nine months ended | |||||||||
September 30, | September 30, | |||||||||
| 2024 |
| 2023 |
| 2024 |
| 2023 |
| ||
amounts in millions | ||||||||||
Formula One Group | ||||||||||
Formula 1: | ||||||||||
Primary | $ | | | | | |||||
Other | | | | | ||||||
Corporate and other | | — | | — | ||||||
Intergroup elimination | ( | — | ( | — | ||||||
Total Formula One Group | | | | | ||||||
Braves Group |
|
|
|
| ||||||
Corporate and other: |
|
|
|
| ||||||
Baseball |
| NA |
| |
| NA |
| | ||
Mixed-Use Development |
| NA |
| |
| NA |
| | ||
Total Braves Group | NA | | NA | | ||||||
Consolidated Liberty | $ | | |
| |
| |
Our subsidiaries’ customers generally pay for services in advance of the performance obligation and therefore these prepayments are recorded as deferred revenue. The deferred revenue is recognized as revenue in our unaudited condensed consolidated statement of operations as the services are provided. The opening and closing balances for our deferred revenue related to Formula 1 and other subsidiaries for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 were approximately $
Significant portions of the transaction prices for Formula 1 and other subsidiaries are related to undelivered performance obligations that are under contractual arrangements that extend beyond one year. The Company anticipates recognizing revenue from the delivery of such performance obligations of approximately $
For segment reporting purposes, the Company defines Adjusted OIBDA as revenue less operating expenses, and selling, general and administrative expenses excluding all stock-based compensation, separately reported litigation settlements and restructuring, acquisition and impairment charges. The Company believes this measure is an important indicator of the operational strength and performance of its businesses, by identifying those items that are not directly a reflection of each business’ performance or indicative of ongoing business trends. In addition, this measure allows management to view operating results and perform analytical comparisons and benchmarking between businesses and identify strategies to improve performance. This measure of performance excludes depreciation and amortization, stock-based compensation, separately reported litigation settlements and restructuring, acquisition and impairment charges that are included in the measurement of operating income pursuant to GAAP. Accordingly, Adjusted OIBDA should be considered in addition to, but not as a substitute for, operating income, net income, cash flow provided by operating
I-31
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(unaudited)
activities and other measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. The Company generally accounts for intersegment sales and transfers as if the sales or transfers were to third parties, that is, at current prices.
Adjusted OIBDA is summarized as follows:
Three months ended | Nine months ended | |||||||||
September 30, | September 30, | |||||||||
| 2024 |
| 2023 |
| 2024 |
| 2023 |
| ||
amounts in millions | ||||||||||
Formula One Group |
|
| ||||||||
Formula 1 | $ | |
| |
| |
| | ||
Corporate and other | ( |
| ( | ( | ( | |||||
Total Formula One Group | |
| | | | |||||
Liberty Live Group | ||||||||||
Corporate and other |
| ( |
| ( |
| ( |
| ( | ||
Total Liberty Live Group |
| ( |
| ( |
| ( |
| ( | ||
Braves Group | ||||||||||
Corporate and other |
| NA |
| |
| NA |
| | ||
Total Braves Group |
| NA |
| |
| NA |
| | ||
Consolidated Liberty | $ | |
| |
| |
| |
Other Information
September 30, 2024 | ||||||
| Total |
| Investments |
| ||
assets | in affiliates | |||||
amounts in millions | ||||||
Formula One Group | ||||||
Formula 1 | $ | | | |||
Corporate and other |
| |
| | ||
Intergroup elimination | ( | — | ||||
Total Formula One Group | | | ||||
Liberty Live Group | ||||||
Corporate and other | | | ||||
Total Liberty Live Group | | | ||||
Elimination | ( | — | ||||
Consolidated Liberty | $ | |
| |
I-32
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
(unaudited)
The following table provides a reconciliation of Adjusted OIBDA to Operating income (loss) and Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes:
Three months ended | Nine months ended | |||||||||
September 30, | September 30, | |||||||||
| 2024 |
| 2023 |
| 2024 |
| 2023 |
| ||
amounts in millions | ||||||||||
Adjusted OIBDA | $ | |
| |
| |
| | ||
Impairment and acquisition costs | ( | — | ( | ( | ||||||
Stock-based compensation |
| ( |
| ( |
| ( |
| ( | ||
Depreciation and amortization |
| ( |
| ( |
| ( |
| ( | ||
Operating income (loss) | | | | | ||||||
Interest expense |
| ( |
| ( |
| ( |
| ( | ||
Share of earnings (losses) of affiliates, net |
| |
| |
| |
| | ||
Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on financial instruments, net |
| ( |
| |
| |
| ( | ||
Unrealized gains (losses) on intergroup interests | — |
| ( |
| — |
| ( | |||
Other, net |
| |
| ( |
| |
| | ||
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes | $ | |
| |
| |
| |
I-33
Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Certain statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements regarding our projected sources and uses of cash; fluctuations in interest rates and stock prices; the anticipated non-material impact of certain contingent liabilities related to legal and tax proceedings; and other matters arising in the ordinary course of business. Where, in any forward-looking statement, we express an expectation or belief as to future results or events, such expectation or belief is expressed in good faith and believed to have a reasonable basis, but there can be no assurance that the expectation or belief will result or be achieved or accomplished. The following include some but not all of the factors (as they relate to our consolidated subsidiaries and equity affiliates) that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated:
● | the historical financial information of the Liberty Formula One Group (the “Formula One Group”) and the Liberty Live Group may not necessarily reflect their results had they been separate companies; |
● | our ability to obtain additional financing on acceptable terms and cash in amounts sufficient to service debt and other financial obligations; |
● | our and our subsidiaries’ indebtedness could adversely affect operations and could limit the ability of our subsidiaries to react to changes in the economy or our industry; |
● | the success of businesses attributed to each of our tracking stock groups and their popularity with audiences; |
● | our ability to realize the benefits of acquisitions or other strategic investments; |
● | the impact of weak and uncertain economic conditions on consumer demand for products, services and events offered by our businesses attributed to our tracking stock groups; |
● | our overlapping directors and management with Qurate Retail, Inc. (“Qurate Retail”), Liberty Broadband Corporation (“Liberty Broadband”) and Liberty TripAdvisor Holdings, Inc. (“TripCo”); |
● | the outcome of pending or future litigation; |
● | the operational risks of our subsidiaries and business affiliates with operations outside of the United States (“U.S.”); |
● | our ability to use net operating loss, disallowed business interest and tax credit carryforwards to reduce future tax payments; |
● | the degradation, failure or misuse of our information systems; |
● | the ability of our subsidiaries and business affiliates to comply with government regulations, including, without limitation, competition laws and adverse outcomes from regulatory proceedings; |
● | the regulatory and competitive environment of the industries in which we, and the entities in which we have interests, operate; |
● | changes in the nature of key strategic relationships with partners, vendors and joint venturers; |
● | the impact of a future pandemic and other public health related risks and events, such as COVID-19, on our customers, vendors and businesses generally; |
● | reliance on intellectual property and the ability to protect intellectual property; |
● | reliance on third parties; |
● | the ability to attract and retain qualified personnel; |
● | the impact of our equity method investment in Live Nation Entertainment, Inc. (“Live Nation”) on our net earnings and the net earnings of the Liberty Live Group; |
● | termination of or changes in any of the agreements, commitments or policies Formula 1 relies on to operate and the limitations such agreements, commitments and policies impose on Formula 1; |
● | challenges by tax authorities in the jurisdictions where Formula 1 operates; |
● | changes in tax laws that affect Formula 1 and the Formula One Group; |
● | the ability of Formula 1 to expand into new markets; |
I-34
● | changes in laws and regulations and/or their interpretations related to advertising, media rights and the environment; |
● | the relationship between the United Kingdom (“U.K.”) and the European Union (“E.U.”) following Brexit; |
● | the establishment of rival motorsports events or other circumstances that impact the competitive position of Formula 1; |
● | the impact of cancelations or postponements of events or accidents or terrorist attacks during events; |
● | changes in consumer viewing habits and the emergence of new content distribution platforms; |
● | fluctuations in currencies against the U.S. dollar; |
● | the risks associated with the Company as a whole and our use of tracking stock groups, even if a holder does not own shares of common stock of all of our groups; |
● | market confusion that results from misunderstandings about our capital structure; |
● | market price of our tracking stocks may be volatile; |
● | we may not pay dividends equally to our tracking stocks or at all; |
● | our directors’ or officers’ equity ownership may create the appearance of conflicts of interest; |
● | geopolitical incidents, accidents, terrorist acts, international conflicts, natural disasters, including the effects of climate change, or other events that cause one or more events to be cancelled or postponed, are not covered by insurance, or cause reputational damage to our subsidiaries and business affiliates; and |
● | challenges related to assessing the future prospects of tracking stock groups based on past performance. |
For additional risk factors, please see Part II, Item 1A. Risk Factors of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023. Any forward-looking statements and such risks, uncertainties and other factors speak only as of the date of this Quarterly Report, and we expressly disclaim any obligation or undertaking to disseminate any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement contained herein, to reflect any change in our expectations with regard thereto, or any other change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based.
The following discussion and analysis provides information concerning our results of operations and financial condition. This discussion should be read in conjunction with our accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto and our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023.
The information contained herein relates to Liberty Media Corporation and its controlled subsidiaries ("Liberty," the "Company," "we," "us," or "our" unless the context otherwise requires).
Overview
We own controlling and non-controlling interests in a broad range of media and entertainment companies. Formula 1, our most significant operating subsidiary, is a wholly-owned consolidated subsidiary and is also a reportable segment. Formula 1 is a global motorsports business that holds exclusive commercial rights with respect to the World Championship, an annual, approximately nine-month long, motor race-based competition in which teams compete for the Constructors' Championship and drivers compete for the Drivers' Championship. The World Championship takes place on various circuits with a varying number of events (“Events”) taking place in different countries around the world each season. Formula 1 is responsible for the commercial exploitation and development of the World Championship as well as various aspects of its management and administration.
We hold an ownership interest in Live Nation, which is accounted for as an equity method investment as of September 30, 2024. Live Nation is considered the world’s leading live entertainment company. As of December 31, 2023, Live Nation met the Company’s reportable segment threshold for equity method affiliates.
Our "Corporate and Other" category includes our consolidated subsidiary QuintEvents, LLC (“QuintEvents”), corporate expenses and investments and related financial instruments in public companies, which are accounted for at their
I-35
respective fair market values. Braves Holdings, LLC ("Braves Holdings"), a consolidated subsidiary, was included in “Corporate and Other” prior to the Atlanta Braves Holdings Split-Off (defined below).
A tracking stock is a type of common stock that the issuing company intends to reflect or "track" the economic performance of a particular business or "group," rather than the economic performance of the company as a whole.
On July 18, 2023, the Company completed the split-off (the “Atlanta Braves Holdings Split-Off”) of its wholly owned subsidiary, Atlanta Braves Holdings, Inc. (“Atlanta Braves Holdings”). The Atlanta Braves Holdings Split-Off was accomplished by a redemption by the Company of each outstanding share of Liberty Braves common stock in exchange for one share of the corresponding series of Atlanta Braves Holdings common stock. Atlanta Braves Holdings is comprised of the businesses, assets and liabilities attributed to the Liberty Braves Group (the “Braves Group”) immediately prior to the Atlanta Braves Holdings Split-Off, except for the intergroup interests in the Braves Group attributed to the Liberty SiriusXM Group and Formula One Group, which were settled and extinguished in connection with the Atlanta Braves Holdings Split-Off.
On August 3, 2023, the Company reclassified its then-outstanding shares of common stock into three new tracking stocks — Liberty SiriusXM common stock, Liberty Formula One common stock and Liberty Live common stock, and, in connection therewith, provided for the attribution of the businesses, assets and liabilities of the Company’s remaining tracking stock groups among its newly created Liberty SiriusXM Group, Formula One Group and Liberty Live Group (the “Reclassification”). As a result of the Reclassification, each then-outstanding share of Liberty SiriusXM common stock was reclassified into one share of the corresponding series of new Liberty SiriusXM common stock and 0.2500 of a share of the corresponding series of Liberty Live common stock and each outstanding share of Liberty Formula One common stock was reclassified into one share of the corresponding series of new Liberty Formula One common stock and 0.0428 of a share of the corresponding series of Liberty Live common stock.
Each of the Atlanta Braves Holdings Split-Off and the Reclassification were intended to be tax-free to stockholders of the Company, except with respect to the receipt of cash in lieu of fractional shares. In July 2024, the IRS completed its review of the Reclassification and notified the Company that it agreed with the nontaxable characterization of the transaction. In September 2024, the IRS completed its review of the Atlanta Braves Holdings Split-Off and notified the Company that it agreed with the nontaxable characterization of the transaction. The Atlanta Braves Holdings Split-Off and the Reclassification are reflected in the Company’s consolidated financial statements on a prospective basis.
On January 2, 2024, the Company purchased QuintEvents, LLC (“QuintEvents”) for total consideration of approximately $277 million, comprised of $205 million of cash, net of cash acquired of $66 million, and a $6 million settlement of a pre-existing condition.
On September 9, 2024, Liberty completed the split-off (the “Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off”) of its wholly owned subsidiary, Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Inc. (“Liberty Sirius XM Holdings”). The Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off was accomplished through the redemption by the Company of each outstanding share of Liberty SiriusXM common stock in exchange for 0.8375 of a share of Liberty Sirius XM Holdings common stock, with cash paid in lieu of fractional shares. Liberty Sirius XM Holdings is comprised of the businesses, assets and liabilities attributed to the Liberty SiriusXM Group immediately prior to the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off. The Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off was intended to be tax-free to holders of Liberty SiriusXM common stock (except with respect to cash received in lieu of fractional shares).
Following the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off, on September 9, 2024, a wholly owned subsidiary of Liberty Sirius XM Holdings merged with and into Sirius XM Holdings Inc. (“Sirius XM Holdings”), with Sirius XM Holdings surviving the merger as a wholly owned subsidiary of Liberty Sirius XM Holdings (the “Merger” and, together with the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off, the “Transactions”). As a result of the Transactions, Liberty Sirius XM Holdings is an independent public company separate from Liberty.
While the Formula One Group and the Liberty Live Group have separate collections of businesses, assets and liabilities attributed to them, no group is a separate legal entity and therefore cannot own assets, issue securities or enter into legally binding agreements. Holders of tracking stock have no direct claim to the group's stock or assets and therefore, do not own,
I-36
by virtue of their ownership of a Liberty tracking stock, any equity or voting interest in a public company, such as Live Nation, in which Liberty holds an interest that is attributed to a Liberty tracking stock group, the Liberty Live Group. Holders of tracking stock are also not represented by separate boards of directors. Instead, holders of tracking stock are stockholders of the parent corporation, with a single board of directors and subject to all of the risks and liabilities of the parent corporation.
As of September 30, 2024, the Formula One Group is primarily comprised of Liberty’s interests in Formula 1 and QuintEvents, cash and Liberty’s 2.25% Convertible Senior Notes due 2027. The Formula One Group had cash and cash equivalents of approximately $2,666 million as of September 30, 2024, which included $1,449 million of subsidiary cash.
As of September 30, 2024, the Liberty Live Group is primarily comprised of Liberty’s interest in Live Nation, cash, other minority investments, Liberty’s 0.5% Exchangeable Senior Debentures due 2050, Liberty’s 2.375% Exchangeable Senior Debentures due 2053 and an undrawn margin loan.
Prior to the Atlanta Braves Holdings Split-Off, the Braves Group was primarily comprised of Braves Holdings, which indirectly owns the Atlanta Braves Major League Baseball Club (“ANLBC”), certain assets and liabilities associated with ANLBC’s stadium (the “Stadium”) and a mixed-use development around the Stadium that features retail, office, hotel and entertainment opportunities and corporate cash.
Prior to the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off, the Liberty SiriusXM common stock was intended to track and reflect the separate economic performance of the businesses, assets and liabilities attributed to the Liberty SiriusXM Group. At the time of the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off, the Liberty SiriusXM Group was comprised of Liberty’s interest in Sirius XM Holdings, corporate cash, Liberty’s 3.75% Convertible Senior Notes due 2028, Liberty’s 2.75% Exchangeable Senior Debentures due 2049 and a margin loan obligation incurred by a wholly-owned special purpose subsidiary of Liberty. Liberty Sirius XM Holdings is presented as a discontinued operation in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements. Prior to the Reclassification, Liberty’s interest in Live Nation, Liberty’s 0.5% Exchangeable Senior Debentures due 2050 and a margin loan secured by shares of Live Nation were attributed to the Liberty SiriusXM Group and are presented as continuing operations in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements.
Results of Operations—Consolidated
General. Provided in the tables below is information regarding our consolidated operating results and other income and expense, as well as information regarding the contribution to those items from our reportable segments. The "Corporate and other" category consists of those assets or businesses which do not qualify as a separate reportable segment. For a more detailed discussion and analysis of the financial results of our principal reportable segments see "Results of Operations—Businesses" below.
Braves Holdings was a subsidiary of the Company until the Atlanta Braves Holdings Split-Off on July 18, 2023. Braves Holdings is not presented as a discontinued operation in the Company’s consolidated financial statements as the Atlanta Braves Holdings Split-Off did not represent a strategic shift that had a major effect on the Company’s operations and financial results.
I-37
Consolidated Operating Results
Three months ended | Nine months ended | |||||||||
September 30, | September 30, | |||||||||
| 2024 |
| 2023 |
| 2024 |
| 2023 |
| ||
amounts in millions | ||||||||||
Revenue | ||||||||||
Formula One Group | ||||||||||
Formula 1 | $ | 861 | 887 | 2,285 | 1,992 | |||||
Corporate and other | 70 | — | 255 | — | ||||||
Intergroup elimination | (20) | — | (54) | — | ||||||
Total Formula One Group | 911 | 887 | 2,486 | 1,992 | ||||||
Braves Group | ||||||||||
Corporate and other | NA |
| 49 |
| NA |
| 350 | |||
Total Braves Group | NA | 49 | NA | 350 | ||||||
Consolidated Liberty | $ | 911 |
| 936 |
| 2,486 |
| 2,342 | ||
Operating Income (Loss) | ||||||||||
Formula One Group | ||||||||||
Formula 1 | 146 | 132 | 366 | 239 | ||||||
Corporate and other |
| (36) |
| (25) |
| (102) |
| (64) | ||
Total Formula One Group | 110 | 107 | 264 | 175 | ||||||
Liberty Live Group | ||||||||||
Corporate and other | (3) | (5) | (7) | (5) | ||||||
Total Liberty Live Group | (3) | (5) | (7) | (5) | ||||||
Braves Group | ||||||||||
Corporate and other | NA | (1) | NA | (31) | ||||||
Total Braves Group | NA | (1) | NA | (31) | ||||||
Consolidated Liberty | $ | 107 |
| 101 |
| 257 |
| 139 | ||
Adjusted OIBDA | ||||||||||
Formula One Group | ||||||||||
Formula 1 | 221 | 215 | 589 | 487 | ||||||
Corporate and other |
| (14) |
| (18) |
| (15) |
| (44) | ||
Total Formula One Group | 207 | 197 | 574 | 443 | ||||||
Liberty Live Group | ||||||||||
Corporate and other | (2) | (4) | (4) | (4) | ||||||
Total Liberty Live Group | (2) | (4) | (4) | (4) | ||||||
Braves Group | ||||||||||
Corporate and other | NA | 3 | NA | 14 | ||||||
Total Braves Group | NA | 3 | NA | 14 | ||||||
Consolidated Liberty | $ | 205 |
| 196 |
| 570 |
| 453 |
Revenue. Our consolidated revenue decreased $25 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024, as compared to the corresponding period in the prior year, driven by a decrease in Braves Holdings revenue due to the Atlanta Braves Holdings Split-Off in 2023, a decrease in Formula 1 revenue and intergroup eliminations, partially offset by revenue from QuintEvents, which was acquired in January 2024. Our consolidated revenue increased $144 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, as compared to the corresponding period in the prior year, driven by an increase in Formula 1 revenue and revenue from QuintEvents, partially offset by a decrease in Braves Holdings revenue due to the Atlanta Braves Holdings Split-Off in 2023 and intergroup eliminations. See “Results of Operations—Businesses” below for a more complete discussion of Formula 1’s results of operations.
Operating income (loss). Our consolidated operating income increased $6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024, as compared to the corresponding period in the prior year, primarily driven by a $14 million increase
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in Formula 1 operating results, partially offset by QuintEvents operating results, which was acquired in January 2024. Our consolidated operating income increased $118 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, as compared to the corresponding period in the prior year, primarily driven by an increase in Formula 1 operating results and the Atlanta Braves Holdings Split-Off in 2023, partially offset by QuintEvents operating results. See “Results of Operations—Businesses” below for a more complete discussion of Formula 1’s results of operations.
Stock-based compensation. Stock-based compensation includes compensation related to options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock awards, restricted stock units, performance-based restricted stock units and other stock-based awards granted to officers, employees, nonemployee directors and employees of our subsidiaries. We recorded $27 million and $22 million of stock-based compensation expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively. As of September 30, 2024, the total unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested Liberty equity awards was approximately $15 million. Such amount will be recognized in our condensed consolidated statements of operations over a weighted average period of approximately 2.1 years.
Acquisition costs. The Company recorded $3 million and $23 million of costs related to corporate acquisitions during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, respectively.
Adjusted OIBDA. To provide investors with additional information regarding our financial results, we also disclose Adjusted OIBDA, which is a non-GAAP (as defined below) financial measure. We define Adjusted OIBDA as operating income (loss) plus depreciation and amortization, stock-based compensation, separately reported litigation settlements, restructuring, acquisition and impairment charges. Our chief operating decision maker and management team use this measure of performance in conjunction with other measures to evaluate our businesses and make decisions about allocating resources among our businesses. We believe this is an important indicator of the operational strength and performance of our businesses by identifying those items that are not directly a reflection of each business’ performance or indicative of ongoing business trends. In addition, this measure allows us to view operating results, perform analytical comparisons and benchmarking between businesses and identify strategies to improve performance. Accordingly, Adjusted OIBDA should be considered in addition to, but not as a substitute for, operating income, net income, cash flow provided by operating activities and other measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). The following table provides a reconciliation of Operating income (loss) to Adjusted OIBDA:
Three months ended | Nine months ended | |||||||||
September 30, | September 30, | |||||||||
| 2024 |
| 2023 |
| 2024 |
| 2023 |
| ||
amounts in millions | ||||||||||
Operating income (loss) | $ | 107 | 101 | 257 | 139 | |||||
Depreciation and amortization |
| 88 |
| 89 |
| 263 |
| 291 | ||
Stock-based compensation |
| 7 |
| 6 |
| 27 |
| 22 | ||
Impairment and acquisition costs | 3 | — | 23 | 1 | ||||||
Adjusted OIBDA | $ | 205 |
| 196 |
| 570 |
| 453 |
Consolidated Adjusted OIBDA increased $9 million and $117 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, respectively, as compared to the corresponding periods in the prior year, primarily due to increases in Formula 1 Adjusted OIBDA, partially offset by the Atlanta Braves Holdings Split-Off in 2023. See “Results of Operations—Businesses” below for a more complete discussion of Formula 1’s results of operations.
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Other Income and Expense
Components of Other Income (Expense) are presented in the table below.
Three months ended | Nine months ended | |||||||||
September 30, | September 30, | |||||||||
| 2024 |
| 2023 |
| 2024 |
| 2023 |
| ||
amounts in millions | ||||||||||
Interest expense | ||||||||||
Formula One Group | $ | (54) | (56) | (162) | (161) | |||||
Liberty Live Group | (8) | (2) | (22) | (2) | ||||||
Liberty SiriusXM Group | — | (1) | — | (4) | ||||||
Braves Group | NA | (3) | NA | (21) | ||||||
Consolidated Liberty | $ | (62) |
| (62) |
| (184) |
| (188) | ||
Share of earnings (losses) of affiliates, net | ||||||||||
Formula One Group | $ | (1) | 2 | (6) | (1) | |||||
Liberty Live Group | 117 | 90 | 181 | 90 | ||||||
Liberty SiriusXM Group | — | 50 | — | 127 | ||||||
Braves Group | NA | 1 | NA | 12 | ||||||
Consolidated Liberty | $ | 116 |
| 143 |
| 175 |
| 228 | ||
Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on financial instruments, net | ||||||||||
Formula One Group | $ | 39 | 66 | 86 | 83 | |||||
Liberty Live Group | (94) | (72) | (75) | (72) | ||||||
Liberty SiriusXM Group | — | 45 | — | (59) | ||||||
Braves Group | NA | — | NA | 3 | ||||||
Consolidated Liberty | $ | (55) |
| 39 |
| 11 |
| (45) | ||
Unrealized gains (losses) on intergroup interests | ||||||||||
Formula One Group | $ | — | 16 | — | 15 | |||||
Braves Group | — | (20) | — | (83) | ||||||
Consolidated Liberty | $ | — |
| (4) |
| — |
| (68) | ||
Other, net | ||||||||||
Formula One Group | $ | 21 | 14 | 56 | 48 | |||||
Liberty Live Group | 8 | (35) | 20 | (35) | ||||||
Liberty SiriusXM Group | — | 1 | — | (6) | ||||||
Braves Group | NA | 1 | NA | 5 | ||||||
Consolidated Liberty | $ | 29 |
| (19) |
| 76 |
| 12 | ||
$ | 28 |
| 97 |
| 78 |
| (61) |
Interest expense. Consolidated interest expense was flat and decreased $4 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, respectively, as compared to the corresponding periods in the prior year. Interest expense for the Liberty Live Group increased due to an increase in the average amount of debt outstanding. Certain debt was reattributed from the Liberty SiriusXM Group to the Liberty Live Group effective August 3, 2023. The interest related to such debt is reflected in interest expense for the Liberty SiriusXM Group prior to the Reclassification and in interest expense for the Liberty Live Group following the Reclassification. Interest expense for the Braves Group decreased due to the Atlanta Braves Holdings Split-Off.
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Share of earnings (losses) of affiliates, net. The following table presents our share of earnings (losses) of affiliates:
Three months ended | Nine months ended | |||||||||
September 30, | September 30, | |||||||||
| 2024 |
| 2023 |
| 2024 |
| 2023 |
| ||
amounts in millions | ||||||||||
Formula One Group | ||||||||||
Other (a) | $ | (1) |
| 2 |
| (6) |
| (1) | ||
Total Formula One Group | (1) | 2 | (6) | (1) | ||||||
Liberty Live Group | ||||||||||
Live Nation (a) | 117 | 90 | 180 | 90 | ||||||
Other (a) | — | — | 1 | — | ||||||
Total Liberty Live Group | 117 | 90 | 181 | 90 | ||||||
Liberty SiriusXM Group | ||||||||||
Live Nation (a) | NA | 50 | NA | 127 | ||||||
Total Liberty Sirius XM Group | NA | 50 | NA | 127 | ||||||
Braves Group | ||||||||||
Other | NA | 1 | NA | 12 | ||||||
Total Braves Group | NA | 1 | NA | 12 | ||||||
Consolidated Liberty | $ | 116 |
| 143 |
| 175 |
| 228 |
(a) | Liberty’s interests in Live Nation and certain other equity affiliates were reattributed to the Liberty Live Group effective August 3, 2023. |
Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on financial instruments, net. Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on financial instruments are comprised of changes in the fair value of the following:
Three months ended | Nine months ended | |||||||||
September 30, | September 30, | |||||||||
| 2024 |
| 2023 |
| 2024 |
| 2023 |
| ||
amounts in millions | ||||||||||
Debt and equity securities | $ | — |
| 3 |
| 16 |
| 19 | ||
Foreign currency forward contracts | 85 |
| — |
| 93 |
| — | |||
Debt measured at fair value | (106) |
| 8 |
| (109) |
| (132) | |||
Other |
| (34) |
| 28 |
| 11 |
| 68 | ||
$ | (55) |
| 39 |
| 11 |
| (45) |
The changes in unrealized gains (losses) on debt and equity securities are due to market factors primarily driven by changes in the fair value of the stock underlying these financial instruments. Changes in unrealized gains (losses) on foreign currency forward contracts are driven by changes in foreign currency exchange rates. Changes in unrealized gains (losses) on debt measured at fair value are due to market factors primarily driven by changes in the fair value of the underlying shares into which the debt is exchangeable. Other realized and unrealized gains (losses) are primarily driven by changes in the fair value of Formula 1’s interest rate swaps and the realized gains (losses) on Formula 1’s interest rate swaps.
Unrealized gains (losses) on intergroup interests. Unrealized gains (losses) on intergroup interests are driven by changes in the fair value of notional shares representing the intergroup interests. The intergroup interests were settled and extinguished during the nine months ended September 30, 2023.
Other, net. Other, net income increased $48 million and $64 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, respectively, as compared to the corresponding periods in the prior year due to decreases in losses on early extinguishment of debt, increases in foreign exchange gains and increases in interest and dividend income. The increase
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during the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was also driven by tax related expense pursuant to a tax sharing agreement with Qurate Retail, Inc. recorded during the nine months ended September 30, 2023.
Income taxes. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, we had earnings from continuing operations before income taxes of $135 million and $335 million, respectively, and income tax expense of $3 million and $41 million, respectively. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, we had earnings from continuing operations before income taxes of $198 million and $78 million, respectively, and income tax expense of $46 million and $37 million, respectively. For the three months ended September 30, 2024, the Company recognized tax expense less than the expected federal tax rate of 21% primarily due to certain gains that are not taxable and earnings in foreign jurisdictions taxed at rates lower than the 21% U.S. federal tax rate. For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, the Company recognized tax expense less than the expected federal tax rate of 21% due to tax benefits related to deductible stock-based compensation, certain gains that are not taxable and earnings in foreign jurisdictions taxed at rates lower than the 21% U.S. federal tax rate. For the three months ended September 30, 2023, the Company recognized tax expense greater than the expected federal tax rate of 21% primarily due to the impact of a reduction to deferred tax assets for certain federal tax credit carryforwards, partially offset by certain gains that are not taxable. For the nine months ended September 30, 2023, the Company recognized tax expense greater than the expected federal tax rate of 21% primarily due to certain losses that are not deductible for tax purposes.
Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations. We had net earnings from continuing operations of $132 million and net earnings from continuing operations of $294 million during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, respectively, and net earnings from continuing operations of $152 million and $41 million for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2023, respectively. The changes were the result of the above-described fluctuations in our revenue, expenses and other gains and losses.
Material Changes in Financial Condition
As of September 30, 2024, substantially all of our cash and cash equivalents were invested in U.S. Treasury securities, other government securities or government guaranteed funds, AAA rated money market funds and other highly rated financial and corporate debt instruments.
The following are potential sources of liquidity: available cash balances, cash generated by the operating activities of our subsidiaries (to the extent such cash exceeds the working capital needs of the subsidiaries and is not otherwise restricted), proceeds from net asset sales, monetization of our public investment portfolio (including derivatives), debt borrowings and equity issuances, and dividend and interest receipts.
Liberty does not have a debt rating.
As of September 30, 2024, Liberty's cash and cash equivalents were as follows:
|
| |||
Cash and Cash | ||||
Equivalents | ||||
amounts in millions | ||||
Formula One Group | ||||
Formula 1 | $ | 1,383 | ||
Corporate and other | 1,283 | |||
Total Formula One Group | $ | 2,666 | ||
Liberty Live Group | ||||
Corporate and other | $ | 388 | ||
Total Liberty Live Group | $ | 388 |
Cash held by Formula 1 is accessible by Liberty, except when a restricted payment (“RP”) test imposed by the first lien term loan and the revolving credit facility at Formula 1 is not met. Pursuant to the RP test, Liberty does not have
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unlimited access to Formula 1’s cash when the leverage ratio (defined as net debt divided by covenant earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization for the trailing twelve months) exceeds a certain threshold. During the nine months ended September 30, 2024, Formula 1 distributed $150 million to Liberty and the RP test was met, pro forma for such distribution. If distributions are made in the future, the RP test, pro forma for such distributions, would have to be met. As of September 30, 2024, Liberty had $400 million available under Liberty’s margin loan secured by shares of Live Nation. Liberty believes that it currently has appropriate legal structures in place to repatriate foreign cash as tax efficiently as possible and meet the business needs of the Company.
The Company and Formula 1 are in compliance with their debt covenants as of September 30, 2024.
Nine months ended | ||||||
September 30, | ||||||
| 2024 |
| 2023 |
| ||
Cash Flow Information |
| amounts in millions | ||||
Formula One Group cash provided (used) by operating activities | $ | 587 | 554 | |||
Liberty Live Group cash provided (used) by operating activities | (11) | (3) | ||||
Liberty SiriusXM Group cash provided (used) by operating activities | — | (3) | ||||
Braves Group cash provided (used) by operating activities | NA | 32 | ||||
Net cash provided (used) by operating activities |
| $ | 576 |
| 580 | |
Formula One Group cash provided (used) by investing activities | $ | (277) | (391) | |||
Liberty Live Group cash provided (used) by investing activities | 105 | 1 | ||||
Braves Group cash provided (used) by investing activities | NA | (35) | ||||
Net cash provided (used) by investing activities |
| $ | (172) |
| (425) | |
Formula One Group cash provided (used) by financing activities | $ | 954 | (426) | |||
Liberty Live Group cash provided (used) by financing activities | (11) | 317 | ||||
Liberty SiriusXM Group cash provided (used) by financing activities | — | 3 | ||||
Braves Group cash provided (used) by financing activities | NA | (170) | ||||
Net cash provided (used) by financing activities |
| $ | 943 |
| (276) |
Liberty’s primary uses of cash during the nine months ended September 30, 2024 (excluding cash used by Formula 1) were $205 million for acquisitions, net of cash acquired, and $117 million for debt repayments, which were primarily funded by cash on hand and proceeds from dispositions. In addition, the Company generated approximately $939 million of net proceeds from the issuance of approximately 12.2 million shares of Series C Liberty Formula One common stock during the nine months ended September 30, 2024.
During the nine months ended September 30, 2024, Formula 1’s primary use of cash was $50 million of capital expenditures, funded by cash from operations.
The projected uses of Liberty's cash (excluding Formula 1’s uses of cash) are primarily capital expenditures, the investment in existing or new businesses, including the acquisition of Dorna Sports, S.L., debt service and the potential buyback of common stock under the approved share buyback program. Liberty expects to fund its projected uses of cash with cash on hand, borrowing capacity under margin loans and outstanding or new debt instruments, or distributions from operating subsidiaries. Liberty may be required to make net payments of income tax liabilities to settle items under discussion with tax authorities.
Formula 1’s uses of cash are expected to be capital expenditures, debt service payments and operating expenses. Liberty expects Formula 1 to fund its projected uses of cash with cash on hand and cash provided by operations.
We believe that the available sources of liquidity are sufficient to cover our projected future uses of cash.
Results of Operations—Businesses
Formula 1. Formula 1 is a global motorsports business that holds exclusive commercial rights with respect to the World Championship, an annual, approximately nine-month long, motor race-based competition in which teams compete
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for the Constructors' Championship and drivers compete for the Drivers' Championship. The World Championship takes place on various circuits throughout the world. Formula 1 derives its primary revenue from the commercial exploitation and development of the World Championship through a combination of race promotion, media rights and sponsorship arrangements. A significant majority of the race promotion, media rights and sponsorship contracts specify payments in advance and annual increases in the fees payable over the course of the contracts. The 2024 World Championship calendar is scheduled to have 24 Events. The 2023 World Championship calendar was originally scheduled to have 23 Events. However, following the cancellation of the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix at Imola due to severe flooding in the region, and confirmation that it would not be replaced in May 2023, 22 Events took place, with income and cost recognition adjusted to reflect the revised 22 Event calendar during the second quarter of 2023.
During the three months ended September 30, 2024, seven Events took place, compared to eight Events in the corresponding period in the prior year. During the nine months ended September 30, 2024, 18 Events took place, compared to 16 Events in the corresponding period in the prior year.
Following the acquisition of QuintEvents, Formula 1’s results include intergroup revenue that is eliminated in consolidation.
Formula 1’s operating results were as follows:
Three months ended | Nine months ended | |||||||||
September 30, | September 30, | |||||||||
| 2024 |
| 2023 |
| 2024 |
| 2023 |
| ||
amounts in millions | ||||||||||
Primary Formula 1 revenue | $ | 758 |
| 790 |
| 1,960 |
| 1,722 | ||
Other Formula 1 revenue | 103 |
| 97 |
| 325 |
| 270 | |||
Total Formula 1 revenue | 861 |
| 887 |
| 2,285 |
| 1,992 | |||
Operating expenses: | ||||||||||
Cost of Formula 1 revenue | (561) |
| (615) |
| (1,492) | (1,340) | ||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses (excluding stock-based compensation) | (79) |
| (57) |
| (204) |
| (165) | |||
Adjusted OIBDA | 221 |
| 215 |
| 589 |
| 487 | |||
Stock-based compensation | (1) | (1) | (2) | (2) | ||||||
Depreciation and amortization | (74) |
| (82) |
| (221) |
| (246) | |||
Operating income (loss) |
| $ | 146 |
| 132 |
| 366 |
| 239 | |
Number of Events | 7 | 8 | 18 | 16 |
Primary Formula 1 revenue is derived from the commercial exploitation and development of the World Championship through a combination of race promotion fees (earned from granting the rights to host, stage and promote each Event on the World Championship calendar, fees from certain race promoters to license additional commercial rights from Formula 1 to secure Formula 2, Formula 3 and F1 Academy races at their Events, technical service fees from promoters to support the origination of program footage and ticketing revenue from Formula 1’s direct promotion of the Las Vegas Grand Prix), media rights fees (earned from licensing the right to broadcast Events and Formula 2 and Formula 3 races on television and other platforms, F1 TV subscriptions and other related services, the origination of program footage, footage from Formula 1’s archives and the licensing of radio broadcast and other ancillary media rights) and sponsorship fees (earned from the sale of World Championship and Event-related advertising and sponsorship rights and the servicing of such rights, rights to advertise on Formula 1’s digital platforms and at non-Championship related events).
Primary Formula 1 revenue decreased $32 million during the three months ended September 30, 2024, as compared to the corresponding period in the prior year, driven by the calendar variance, with one less Event held. Media rights revenue decreased during the three months ended September 30, 2024 due to the impact of the calendar variance on revenue recognition, partially offset by contractual increases in fees and continued growth in F1 TV subscription revenue. Sponsorship revenue decreased during the three months ended September 30, 2024 due to the impact of the calendar variance on revenue recognition and the different mix of Events held. Race promotion revenue increased during the three months ended September 30, 2024 due to the different mix of Events held and contractual increases in fees.
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Primary Formula 1 revenue increased $238 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2024, as compared to the corresponding period in the prior year, driven by the calendar variance, with two more Events held. Media rights revenue increased during the nine months ended September 30, 2024 due to the impact of the calendar variance on revenue recognition, contractual increases in fees and continued growth in F1 TV subscription revenue. Sponsorship revenue increased during the nine months ended September 30, 2024 driven by two additional Events in the period and fees from new sponsors. Race promotion revenue increased during the nine months ended September 30, 2024 driven by two more Events, contractual increases in fees and growing Sprint and F1 Academy fees.
Other Formula 1 revenue is generated from miscellaneous and ancillary sources primarily related to the sale of tickets to the Formula One Paddock Club at most Events, facilitating the shipment of cars and equipment to and from Events outside of Europe, the sale of hospitality and experiences at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, the operation of the Formula 2, Formula 3 and the new F1 Academy series, other licensing opportunities, various television production activities and other ancillary operations. Other Formula 1 revenue increased $6 million during the three months ended September 30, 2024, as compared to the corresponding period in the prior year, driven by growth in licensing revenue and revenue generated from third-party events at the Grand Prix Plaza site in Las Vegas, partially offset by decreases in revenue from hospitality and experiences due to one less Event held. Other revenue increased $55 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2024, as compared to the corresponding period in the prior year, driven by the impact of two more Events, resulting in higher hospitality and freight income. The increase during the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was also driven by the sale of new Formula 2 cars and associated parts at the beginning of the new Formula 2 vehicle cycle, higher licensing revenue and revenue generated from third-party events at the Grand Prix Plaza site in Las Vegas.
Cost of Formula 1 revenue
Three months ended | Nine months ended | |||||||||
September 30, | September 30, | |||||||||
2024 |
| 2023 |
| 2024 |
| 2023 | ||||
amounts in millions | ||||||||||
Team payments | $ | (371) | (432) | (969) | (888) | |||||
Other costs of Formula 1 revenue | (190) | (183) | (523) | (452) | ||||||
Cost of Formula 1 revenue | $ | (561) | (615) | (1,492) | (1,340) |
Cost of Formula 1 revenue decreased $54 million and increased $152 million during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, respectively, as compared to the corresponding periods in the prior year.
Team payments are recognized on a pro-rata basis across the Events of the World Championship calendar. Team payments decreased during the three months ended September 30, 2024 due to the pro rata recognition of expected team payments, with one less Event held in the current period. Team payments increased during the nine months ended September 30, 2024 due to the pro rata recognition of expected increased team payments.
Other costs of Formula 1 revenue are largely variable in nature and relate to both primary and other Formula 1 revenue. On an annual basis, the largest components of other costs of Formula 1 revenue are costs related to promoting, organizing and delivering the Las Vegas Grand Prix, hospitality costs, which are principally related to catering and other aspects of the production and delivery of hospitality offerings at the Las Vegas Grand Prix and the Paddock Club at other Events, and costs incurred in the provision and sale of freight, travel and logistical services. Other costs of Formula 1 revenue also include sponsorship and digital product sales’ commissions, circuit rights’ fees payable under various agreements with race promoters to acquire certain commercial rights at Events, including the right to sell advertising, hospitality and support race opportunities, annual Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (“FIA”) regulatory fees, Formula 2 and Formula 3 cars, parts and maintenance services, costs related to the F1 Academy series, television production and post-production services, advertising production services and digital and social media activities. Other costs increased $7 million during the three months ended September 30, 2024, as compared to the corresponding period in the prior year, primarily due to Las Vegas Grand Prix related lease costs, higher digital, F1 Academy and commissions and partner servicing costs associated with increased Primary Formula 1 revenue streams, partially offset by the impact of one less Event during the period, leading to lower FIA regulatory, technical, hospitality and travel costs. Other costs increased $71 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2024, as compared to the corresponding period in the prior year, primarily due to higher commissions and partner servicing costs associated with increased Primary Formula 1 revenue streams, higher FIA
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regulatory, digital, technical, hospitality, freight and travel costs related to two more Events in the current year period, higher costs of the F1 Academy series and Las Vegas Grand Prix related lease costs. The increase for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was also driven by the costs of supplying the new Formula 2 cars and associated parts at the start of the new vehicle cycle.
Selling, general and administrative expenses include personnel costs, legal, professional and other advisory fees, bad debt expense, rental expense, information technology costs, insurance premiums, maintenance and utility costs and other general office administration costs. Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $22 million and $39 million during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, respectively, as compared to the corresponding periods in the prior year, primarily due to higher personnel, information technology, property, marketing, legal and other professional fee costs.
Stock-based compensation was flat during the both the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, as compared to the corresponding periods in the prior year.
Depreciation and amortization includes depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of intangible assets. Depreciation and amortization decreased $8 million and $25 million during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, respectively, as compared to the corresponding periods in the prior year primarily due to a decrease in amortization expense related to certain intangible assets acquired in the acquisition of Formula 1 by Liberty.
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
We are exposed to market risk in the normal course of business due to our ongoing investing and financial activities. Market risk refers to the risk of loss arising from adverse changes in stock prices and interest rates. The risk of loss can be assessed from the perspective of adverse changes in fair values, cash flows and future earnings. We have established policies, procedures and internal processes governing our management of market risks and the use of financial instruments to manage our exposure to such risks.
We are exposed to changes in interest rates primarily as a result of our borrowing and investment activities, which include investments in fixed and floating rate debt instruments and borrowings used to maintain liquidity and to fund business operations. The nature and amount of our long-term and short-term debt are expected to vary as a result of future requirements, market conditions and other factors. We manage our exposure to interest rates by maintaining what we believe is an appropriate mix of fixed and variable rate debt. We believe this best protects us from interest rate risk. We have achieved this mix by (i) issuing fixed rate debt that we believe has a low stated interest rate and significant term to maturity, (ii) issuing variable rate debt with appropriate maturities and interest rates and (iii) entering into interest rate swap arrangements when we deem appropriate. As of September 30, 2024, our debt is comprised of the following amounts:
Variable rate debt | Fixed rate debt | |||||||||||
| Principal |
| Weighted avg |
| Principal |
| Weighted avg | |||||
amount | interest rate | amount | interest rate | |||||||||
dollar amounts in millions | ||||||||||||
Formula One Group |
| $ | 184 | 6.5 | % | $ | 2,729 |
| 4.4 | % | ||
Liberty Live Group | NA | NA | $ | 1,200 |
| 2.3 | % |
The Company is exposed to changes in stock prices primarily as a result of our significant holdings in publicly traded securities. We continually monitor changes in stock markets, in general, and changes in the stock prices of our holdings, specifically. We believe that changes in stock prices can be expected to vary as a result of general market conditions, technological changes, specific industry changes and other factors. We periodically use equity collars and other financial instruments to manage market risk associated with certain investment positions. These instruments are recorded at fair value based on option pricing models and other appropriate methods.
Additionally, our stock in Live Nation (one of our equity method affiliates), a publicly traded security, is not reflected at fair value in our balance sheet. This security is also subject to market risk that is not directly reflected in our condensed consolidated statement of operations, and had the market price of such security been 10% lower at September 30, 2024 the aggregate value of such security would have been $763 million lower.
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Item 4. Controls and Procedures
In accordance with Rules 13a-15 and 15d-15 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), the Company carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of management, including its chief executive officer and principal accounting and financial officer (the "Executives"), of the effectiveness of its disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this Quarterly Report. Based on that evaluation, the Executives concluded that the Company's disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of September 30, 2024 to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed in its reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission's rules and forms.
There has been no change in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the three months ended September 30, 2024 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, its internal control over financial reporting.
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PART II—OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
Our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 includes “Legal Proceedings” under Item 3 of Part I. Refer to note 9 in the accompanying notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements for changes in the legal proceedings described in the Form 10-K.
Item 1A. Risk Factors
Except as discussed below, there have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in Part 1, Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 (the “2023 Form 10-K”), which Risk Factors are incorporated by reference into this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
As a result of the completion of the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off, all of the risk factors under the headings “Risks Relating to the Liberty SiriusXM Group” and “Risks Relating to the proposed Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off and Merger” are no longer applicable as they relate to the Liberty SiriusXM Group. In addition, certain of the risk factors under the headings “Risks Relating to Our Company, as a Whole” and “Risks Relating to the Ownership of Our Common Stock Due to Our Tracking Stock Capitalization” are hereby replaced in their entirety as set forth below.
Risks Relating to our Company, as a Whole
The historical financial information of the Formula One Group and the Liberty Live Group included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q may not necessarily reflect their results had they been separate companies.
One of the reasons for the creation of a tracking stock is to permit equity investors to apply more specific criteria in valuing the shares of a particular group, such as comparisons of earnings multiples with those of other companies in the same business sector. In valuing shares of Liberty Formula One common stock and Liberty Live common stock, investors should recognize that the historical financial information of the Formula One Group and the Liberty Live Group has been extracted from our consolidated financial statements and may not necessarily reflect what the Formula One Group’s and the Liberty Live Group’s results of operations, financial condition and cash flows would have been had each of these groups been separate, stand-alone entities pursuing independent strategies during the periods presented.
We may have future capital needs and may not be able to obtain additional financing on acceptable terms.
As of September 30, 2024, we had outstanding corporate-level indebtedness in the principal amount of $1.7 billion. At September 30, 2024, our only wholly owned consolidated subsidiary is Formula 1. Our ability to access the cash flow of Formula 1 is subject to covenant restrictions set forth in the debt instruments of certain subsidiaries of Delta Topco, the parent company of Formula 1. Accordingly, our ability to obtain significant financing in the future, on favorable terms or at all, may be limited. If debt financing is not available to us in the future, we may obtain liquidity through the sale or monetization of our debt or equity securities, or we may issue equity securities. If additional funds are raised through the issuance of equity securities, our stockholders may experience significant dilution. If we are unable to obtain sufficient liquidity in the future, we may be unable to develop our businesses properly, complete acquisitions or otherwise take advantage of business opportunities or respond to competitive pressures, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations and those attributed to our groups.
A substantial portion of our consolidated debt is held above the operating subsidiary level, and we could be unable in the future to obtain cash in amounts sufficient to service that debt and our other financial obligations.
As of September 30, 2024, we had approximately $1.7 billion principal amount of corporate-level debt outstanding, consisting of $475 million outstanding under our 2.25% Convertible Senior Notes due 2027, $50 million outstanding under our 0.5% Exchangeable Senior Debentures due 2050, $1.15 billion outstanding under our 2.375% Exchangeable Senior Debentures due 2053 and $54 million of other obligations. Our ability to meet our financial obligations will depend on our ability to access cash. Our primary sources of cash include our available cash balances, dividends and interest from our
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investments, monetization of our public investment portfolio and proceeds from asset sales. Further, our ability to receive dividends or payments or advances from our businesses depends on their individual operating results, any statutory, regulatory or contractual restrictions to which they may be or may become subject and the terms of their own indebtedness, including Formula 1’s subsidiary debt. The agreements governing such indebtedness restrict sales of assets and prohibit or limit the payment of dividends or the making of distributions, loans or advances to stockholders, non-wholly owned subsidiaries or our partners. We generally do not receive cash, in the form of dividends, loans, advances or otherwise, from any of our subsidiaries or business affiliates.
The success of businesses attributed to each of our tracking stock groups, in part, depends on their popularity with audiences, which is difficult to predict.
Live entertainment events, including sporting events, are inherently risky businesses because the revenue derived from these businesses depends primarily upon their popularity with public audiences, which is difficult to predict. The commercial success of live entertainment depends upon the quality and acceptance of competing programs, the availability of alternative forms of entertainment and leisure time activities, general economic conditions and other tangible and intangible factors, many of which are difficult to predict. In the case of sponsorship agreements, audience size is an important factor when rates are negotiated. Audience size is an important factor when determining ticket pricing for live entertainment events and the value of broadcast rights. Consequently, low public acceptance of the services and events provided by companies such as Formula 1 and Live Nation could hurt the ability of these companies to maintain or grow revenue, which would adversely impact the financial performance of the groups to which these companies are attributed.
Our businesses attributed to the Formula One Group and the Liberty Live Group, such as Formula 1 and Live Nation, may not realize the benefits of acquisitions or other strategic investments and initiatives.
Our business strategy and that of our subsidiaries and business affiliates, including Formula 1 and Live Nation, may include selective acquisitions, other strategic investments and initiatives that allow them to expand their business. The success of any acquisition depends upon effective integration and management of acquired businesses and assets into the acquirer’s operations, which is subject to risks and uncertainties, including the realization of the growth potential, any anticipated synergies and cost savings, the ability to retain and attract personnel, the diversion of management’s attention from other business concerns and undisclosed or potential legal liabilities of acquired businesses or assets.
Weak and uncertain economic conditions may reduce consumer demand for products, services and events offered by our businesses attributed to each of our groups.
A weak or uncertain economy in the U.S. or, in the case of the Formula One Group, abroad, could adversely affect demand for our products, services and events. A substantial portion of our revenue is derived from discretionary spending by individuals, which typically falls during times of economic recession or instability. A reduction in discretionary spending could adversely affect revenue through reduced live-entertainment and sporting event expenditures. Accordingly, the ability of our businesses attributed to each of our groups to increase or maintain revenue and earnings could be adversely affected to the extent that relevant economic environments remain weak or decline further. In addition, inflation, which has significantly risen, may increase operational costs, including labor costs, and continued increases in interest rates in response to concerns about inflation may have the effect of further increasing economic uncertainty and heightening these risks. We currently are unable to predict the extent of any of these potential adverse effects.
Our Company has overlapping directors and management with Qurate Retail, Liberty Broadband and TripCo, which may lead to conflicting interests.
As a result of transactions between 2011 and 2014 that resulted in the separate corporate existence of our Company, Qurate Retail, Liberty Broadband and TripCo, all or most of the executive officers of Liberty also serve as executive officers of Qurate Retail, Liberty Broadband and TripCo, and there are overlapping directors at each of Qurate Retail, Liberty Broadband and TripCo. Our executive officers and members of the Board of Directors have fiduciary duties to our stockholders. Likewise, any such persons who serve in similar capacities at Qurate Retail, Liberty Broadband and TripCo have fiduciary duties to that company’s stockholders. For example, there may be the potential for a conflict of interest when our Company, Qurate Retail, Liberty Broadband or TripCo pursues acquisitions and other business opportunities that
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may be suitable for each of them. Therefore, such persons may have conflicts of interest or the appearance of conflicts of interest with respect to matters involving or affecting more than one of the companies to which they owe fiduciary duties. Moreover, most of our Company’s directors and officers continue to own Qurate Retail, Liberty Broadband and/or TripCo stock and options to purchase stock in those companies. These ownership interests could create, or appear to create, potential conflicts of interest when the applicable individuals are faced with decisions that could have different implications for our Company, Qurate Retail, Liberty Broadband and/or TripCo. Any potential conflict that qualifies as a “related party transaction” (as defined in Item 404 of Regulation S-K under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended) is subject to review by an independent committee of the applicable issuer’s board of directors in accordance with its corporate governance guidelines. Each of Liberty Broadband and TripCo has renounced its rights to certain business opportunities and its respective restated certificate of incorporation contains provisions deeming directors and officers not in breach of their fiduciary duties in certain cases for directing a corporate opportunity to another person or entity (including our Company, Qurate Retail, Liberty Broadband and TripCo) instead of such company. Other potential conflicts that arise will be addressed on a case-by-case basis, keeping in mind the applicable fiduciary duties owed by the executive officers and directors of each issuer. From time to time, we may enter into transactions with Qurate Retail, Liberty Broadband, TripCo and/or their respective subsidiaries or other affiliates. There can be no assurance that the terms of any such transactions will be as favorable to our Company, Qurate Retail, Liberty Broadband, TripCo or any of their respective subsidiaries or affiliates as would be the case where there is no overlapping officer or director.
We may be subject to significant tax liabilities related to the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off.
In connection with the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off, we received an opinion of our tax counsel to the effect that, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off will qualify as a generally tax-free transaction under Section 355, Section 368(a)(1)(D) and related provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”) to Liberty and to former holders of Liberty SiriusXM common stock. We did not obtain a private letter ruling from the Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS”) regarding the U.S. federal income tax treatment of the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off. Opinions of counsel are not binding on the IRS or the courts, and there can be no assurance that the IRS will not challenge the conclusions reached in such opinions or that a court would not sustain such a challenge. If it is determined that the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off does not qualify under Section 355, Section 368(a)(1)(D) and related provisions of the Code, we and the former holders of Liberty SiriusXM common stock who received common stock of Liberty Sirius XM Holdings in the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off could incur significant tax liabilities.
Even if the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off otherwise qualifies under Section 355, Section 368(a)(1)(D), and related provisions of the Code, the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off would result in a significant U.S. federal income tax liability to us (but not to former holders of Liberty SiriusXM common stock) under Section 355(e) of the Code if one or more persons acquire, directly or indirectly, a 50% or greater interest (measured by vote or value) in the stock of our Company or in the stock of Liberty Sirius XM Holdings (or any successor corporation) as part of a plan or series of related transactions that includes the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off. The process for determining whether an acquisition is part of a plan under these rules is complex, inherently factual in nature, and subject to a comprehensive analysis of the facts and circumstances of the particular case. Notwithstanding the opinion of tax counsel described above, we or Liberty Sirius XM Holdings might inadvertently cause or permit a prohibited change in our or Liberty Sirius XM Holdings’ ownership to occur, thereby triggering tax liability to us.
Prior to the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off, we entered into a tax sharing agreement with Liberty Sirius XM Holdings. Under this agreement, our Company is generally responsible for taxes and losses resulting from the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off; however, Liberty Sirius XM Holdings is required to indemnify us for any taxes and losses (other than any taxes or tax-related losses that result from Section 355(e) of the Code applying to the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off as a result of the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off being part of a plan (or series of related transactions) pursuant to which one or more persons acquire a 50-percent or greater interest (measured by vote or value) in the stock of our Company) resulting from the failure of the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off to qualify as a generally tax-free transaction under Section 355, Section 368(a)(1)(D) and related provisions of the Code, to the extent such taxes or losses (i) result primarily from, individually or in the aggregate, the breach of certain covenants made by Liberty Sirius XM Holdings (applicable to actions or failures to act by Liberty Sirius XM Holdings and its subsidiaries following the completion of the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off), (ii) result primarily from, individually or in the aggregate, the failure of certain representations made by Sirius XM Holdings in support of the opinion of our tax counsel regarding the
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generally tax-free status of the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off to be true and correct, or (iii) result from the application of Section 355(e) of the Code to the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off as a result of the treatment of the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off as part of a plan (or series of related transactions) pursuant to which one or more persons acquire, directly or indirectly, a 50% or greater interest (measured by vote or value) in the stock of Liberty Sirius XM Holdings (or any successor corporation), except, in the case of clauses (i) and (ii), if such taxes and losses result from an action required to be taken pursuant to the transaction agreements relating to the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off. As the taxpaying entity, however, we are subject to the risk of non-payment by Liberty Sirius XM Holdings of its indemnification obligations under the tax sharing agreement. Cash for the payment of any taxes and losses resulting from the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off which are not allocated to and paid by Liberty Sirius XM Holdings pursuant to our tax sharing agreement with Liberty Sirius XM Holdings generally would be drawn from funds attributed to the Liberty Live Group, except that cash for the payment of any taxes and losses (a) resulting primarily from a breach by us following the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off of any contractual covenants made by us in connection with the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off or (b) resulting from Section 355(e) of the Code applying to the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off as a result of the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off being part of a plan (or series of related transactions) pursuant to which one or more persons acquire a 50% or greater interest (measured by vote or value) in the stock of our Company shall, in each case, be drawn proportionately from funds attributed to the Formula One Group and the Liberty Live Group based upon the relative market capitalizations of the tracking stock of each group over the first three trading days following completion of the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off, as determined in accordance with our tax sharing policies.
To preserve the tax-free treatment of the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off, we may determine to forgo certain transactions that might have otherwise been advantageous to our Company, including certain asset dispositions or other strategic transactions for some period of time following the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off. In addition, our potential tax liabilities related to the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off might discourage, delay or prevent a change of control transaction for some period of time following the Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Split-Off.
Formula 1 and Live Nation have been, and may in the future be, materially impacted by a pandemic or epidemic, such as COVID-19.
Although Formula 1 and Live Nation saw a return to normal business operations, schedules and events following the COVID-19 pandemic, it is unclear whether and to what extent a future pandemic or epidemic will impact the use of and/or demand for the entertainment, events and services provided by these businesses and demand for sponsorship and advertising assets. If these businesses face cancelled events, closed venues and reduced attendance, as was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the impact may substantially decrease our revenue. For example, due to the revenue reductions caused by COVID-19 in 2020 and 2021, these businesses looked to reduce expenses, but should such impacts resume, the businesses may not be able to reduce expenses to the same degree as any decline in revenue, which may adversely affect our results of operations and cash flow.
In addition, our businesses are particularly sensitive to reductions in travel and discretionary consumer spending. We cannot predict the time period over which our businesses would be impacted by a future pandemic or epidemic. Over the long-term, a future pandemic or epidemic could impede economic activity in impacted regions or globally, causing a global recession, leading to a further decline in discretionary spending on sports and entertainment events and other leisure activities, which could result in long-term effects on our businesses.
For the reasons set forth above and other reasons that may come to light as a result of a future pandemic or epidemic, we cannot reasonably estimate the impact to our future revenue, results of operations, cash flows or financial condition, but such impacts have been, and may in the future be, significant and could have a material adverse effect on our business, revenue, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.
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Risks Relating to the Ownership of Our Common Stock Due to Our Tracking Stock Capitalization
The following risks relate to the ownership of our common stock due to our tracking stock capitalization.
Holders of Liberty Formula One common stock and Liberty Live common stock are common stockholders of our Company and, therefore, are subject to risks associated with an investment in our Company as a whole, even if a holder does not own shares of common stock of all of our groups.
Even though we have attributed, for financial reporting purposes, all of our consolidated assets, liabilities, revenue, expenses and cash flows among the Formula One Group and the Liberty Live Group in order to prepare the separate financial statement schedules for each of those groups, we will retain legal title to all of our assets and our tracking stock capitalization does not limit our legal responsibility, or that of our subsidiaries, for the liabilities included in any set of financial statement schedules. Holders of Liberty Formula One common stock and Liberty Live common stock do not have any legal rights related to specific assets attributed to their associated group and, in any liquidation, holders of Liberty Formula One common stock and holders of Liberty Live common stock will be entitled to receive a pro rata share of our available net assets based on their respective numbers of liquidation units.
Possible market confusion may result from holders of our tracking stocks mistakenly believing that they (i) directly own stock of a company that is attributed to one of our tracking stocks and (ii) have any equity or voting interests with respect to companies attributed to one of our tracking stocks.
Our company holds interests in various companies, including public companies, and these interests are attributed to our tracking stock groups. In particular, following the Reclassification, the Formula One Group is comprised of our subsidiary that owns the Formula 1 business and the Liberty Live Group is primarily comprised of our interest in Live Nation. Depending on the composition of the assets underlying our tracking stock groups from time to time, confusion in the marketplace may occur if holders of our tracking stock mistakenly believe they own stock of a company attributed to the applicable tracking stock group. As described above, holders of Liberty Formula One common stock and Liberty Live common stock do not have any legal rights related to specific assets attributed to their associated tracking stock group. Similarly, holders of these tracking stocks do not, by virtue of their ownership of our tracking stock, own any equity or voting interest in any company attributed to one of our tracking stock groups, including any public companies.
The market price of Liberty Formula One common stock and Liberty Live common stock may not reflect the performance of the businesses and assets attributed to the Formula One Group and the Liberty Live Group, respectively, as we intend.
We cannot assure you that the market price of the common stock related to a group will, in fact, reflect the performance of the group of businesses, assets and liabilities attributed to that group. Holders of Liberty Formula One common stock and Liberty Live common stock are common stockholders of our Company as a whole and, as such, are subject to all risks associated with an investment in our Company and all of our businesses, assets and liabilities. As a result, the market price of each tracking stock may, in part, reflect events that are intended to be reflected or tracked by a different tracking stock of our Company. In addition, investors may discount the value of the stock related to a group because it is part of a common enterprise rather than a stand-alone entity.
The market price of Liberty Formula One common stock and Liberty Live common stock may be volatile, could fluctuate substantially and could be affected by factors that do not affect traditional common stock.
The market prices of Liberty Formula One common stock and Liberty Live common stock and may be materially affected by, among other things:
● | actual or anticipated fluctuations in a group’s operating results or in the operating results of particular companies attributable to such group; |
● | potential acquisition activity by our Company (regardless of the group to which it is attributed) or the companies in which we invest; |
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● | issuances of debt or equity securities to raise capital by our Company or the companies in which we invest and the manner in which that debt or the proceeds of an equity issuance are attributed to each of the groups; |
● | changes in financial estimates by securities analysts regarding Liberty Formula One common stock or Liberty Live common stock or the companies attributable to our tracking stock groups; |
● | the complex nature and the potential difficulties investors may have in understanding the terms of our three tracking stocks, as well as concerns regarding the possible effect of certain of those terms on an investment in our stocks; and |
● | general market conditions. |
The market value of Liberty Formula One common stock or Liberty Live common stock could be adversely affected by events involving the assets and businesses attributed to one or more of the other groups.
Because we are the issuer of Liberty Formula One common stock and Liberty Live common stock, an adverse market reaction to events relating to the assets and businesses attributed to one of our groups, such as earnings announcements, announcements of new products or services or acquisitions or dispositions that the market does not view favorably, may cause an adverse market reaction in the common stock of the other groups. This could occur even if the triggering event is not material to us as a whole. Certain events may also have a greater impact on one group than the same triggering event would have on another group due to the asset composition of the affected group. In addition, the incurrence of significant indebtedness by us or any of our subsidiaries on behalf of one group, including indebtedness incurred or assumed in connection with acquisitions of or investments in businesses, could affect our credit rating and that of our subsidiaries and, therefore, could increase the borrowing costs of businesses attributable to our other groups or the borrowing costs of our Company as a whole.
We may not pay dividends equally or at all on Liberty Formula One common stock or Liberty Live common stock.
We do not presently intend to pay cash dividends on Liberty Formula One common stock or Liberty Live common stock for the foreseeable future. However, we have the right to pay dividends on the shares of common stock related to each group in equal or unequal amounts, and we may pay dividends on the shares of common stock related to one group and not pay dividends on shares of common stock related to another group. In addition, any dividends or distributions on, or repurchases of, shares relating to a group will reduce our assets legally available to be paid as dividends on the shares relating to another group.
Our tracking stock capital structure could create conflicts of interest, and our Board of Directors may make decisions that could adversely affect only some holders of our common stock.
Our tracking stock capital structure could give rise to occasions when the interests of holders of stock related to one group might diverge or appear to diverge from the interests of holders of stock related to one or both of the other groups. In addition, given the nature of their businesses, there may be inherent conflicts of interests between the Formula One Group and the Liberty Live Group. Our tracking stock groups are not separate entities and thus holders of Liberty Formula One common stock and Liberty Live common stock do not have the right to elect separate boards of directors. As a result, our Company’s officers and directors owe fiduciary duties to our Company as a whole and all of our stockholders as opposed to only holders of a particular group. Decisions deemed to be in the best interest of our Company and all of our stockholders may not be in the best interest of a particular group or groups when considered independently. Examples include:
● | decisions as to the terms of any business relationships that may be created between the tracking stock groups; |
● | the terms of any reattributions of assets between one or more groups; |
● | decisions as to the allocation of consideration among the holders of Liberty Formula One common stock and Liberty Live common stock, or among the series of stocks relating to our groups, to be received in connection with a merger involving our Company; |
● | decisions as to the allocation of corporate opportunities between the groups, especially where the opportunities might meet the strategic business objectives of more than one group; |
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● | decisions as to operational and financial matters that could be considered detrimental to one or more groups but beneficial to another; |
● | decisions as to the conversion of shares of common stock of one group into shares of common stock of another; |
● | decisions regarding the creation of, and, if created, the subsequent increase or decrease of any inter-group interest that one group may own in another group; |
● | decisions as to the internal or external financing attributable to businesses or assets attributed to any of our groups; |
● | decisions as to the dispositions of assets of any of our groups; and |
● | decisions as to the payment of dividends on the stock relating to any of our groups. |
Our directors’ or officers’ equity ownership may create or appear to create conflicts of interest.
If directors or officers own disproportionate interests (in percentage or value terms) in Liberty Formula One common stock or Liberty Live common stock, that disparity could create or appear to create conflicts of interest when they are faced with decisions that could have different implications for the holders of Liberty Formula One common stock or Liberty Live common stock.
Other than pursuant to our management and allocation policies, we have not adopted any specific procedures for consideration of matters involving a divergence of interests among holders of shares of stock relating to our two groups, or among holders of different series of stock relating to a specific group.
Rather than develop additional specific procedures in advance, the Board of Directors intends to exercise its judgment from time to time, depending on the circumstances, as to how best to:
● | obtain information regarding the divergence (or potential divergence) of interests; |
● | determine under what circumstances to seek the assistance of outside advisers; |
● | determine whether a committee of the Board of Directors should be appointed to address a specific matter and the appropriate members of that committee; and |
● | assess what is in our best interests and the best interests of all of our stockholders. |
The Board of Directors believes the advantage of retaining flexibility in determining how to fulfill its responsibilities in any such circumstances as they may arise outweighs any perceived advantages of adopting additional specific procedures in advance.
Our Board of Directors may change the management and allocation policies to the detriment of one or more groups without stockholder approval.
The Board of Directors has adopted certain management and allocation policies to serve as guidelines in making decisions regarding the relationship between the Formula One Group and the Liberty Live Group with respect to matters such as tax liabilities and benefits, inter-group loans, inter-group interests, attribution of assets, financing alternatives, corporate opportunities and similar items. These policies also set forth the initial focuses and strategies of these groups and the initial attribution of our businesses, assets and liabilities among them. These policies are not included in the current Charter. The Board of Directors may at any time change or make exceptions to these policies. Because these policies relate to matters concerning the day-to-day management of our Company as opposed to significant corporate actions, such as a merger involving our Company or a sale of substantially all of our assets, no stockholder approval is required with respect to their adoption or amendment. A decision to change, or make exceptions to, these policies or adopt additional policies could disadvantage one or more groups while advantaging the other(s).
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Stockholders will not vote on how to attribute consideration received in connection with a merger involving our Company among holders of Liberty Formula One common stock and Liberty Live common stock.
Our current Charter does not contain any provisions governing how consideration received in connection with a merger or consolidation involving our Company is to be attributed to holders of Liberty Formula One common stock and holders of Liberty Live common stock or to the holders of different series of stock, and none of the holders of Liberty Formula One common stock or Liberty Live common stock will have a separate class vote in the event of such a merger or consolidation. Consistent with applicable principles of Delaware law, the Board of Directors will seek to divide the type and amount of consideration received in a merger or consolidation involving our Company among holders of Liberty Formula One common stock and Liberty Live common stock in a fair manner. As the different ways the Board of Directors may divide the consideration between holders of stock relating to the different groups, and among holders of different series of a particular stock, might have materially different results, the consideration to be received by holders of Liberty Formula One common stock and Liberty Live common stock in any such merger or consolidation may be materially less valuable than the consideration they would have received if they had a separate class vote on such merger or consolidation.
We may dispose of assets of the Formula One Group or the Liberty Live Group without stockholder approval.
Delaware law requires stockholder approval only for a sale or other disposition of all or substantially all of the assets of our Company taken as a whole, and our current Charter does not require a separate class vote in the case of a sale of a significant amount of assets of any of our groups. As long as the assets attributed to the Formula One Group or the Liberty Live Group proposed to be disposed of represent less than substantially all of our assets, we may approve sales and other dispositions of any amount of the assets of such group without any stockholder approval.
If we dispose of all or substantially all of the assets attributed to any group (which means, for this purpose, assets representing 80% of the fair market value of the total assets of the disposing group, as determined by the Board of Directors), we would be required under the terms of our current Charter, if the disposition is not an exempt disposition under the terms of our current charter, to choose one or more of the following three alternatives:
● | declare and pay a dividend on the disposing group’s common stock; |
● | redeem shares of the disposing group’s common stock in exchange for cash, securities or other property; and/or |
● | convert all or a portion of the disposing group’s outstanding common stock into common stock of another group. |
In this type of a transaction, holders of the disposing group’s common stock may receive less value than the value that a third-party buyer might pay for all or substantially all of the assets of the disposing group.
The Board of Directors will decide, in its sole discretion, how to proceed and is not required to select the option that would result in the highest value to holders of any stock related to a particular group.
Holders of Liberty Formula One common stock or Liberty Live common stock may receive less consideration upon a sale of the assets attributed to that group than if that group were a separate company.
If the Formula One Group or the Liberty Live Group were a separate, independent company and its shares were acquired by another person, certain costs of that sale, including corporate level taxes, might not be payable in connection with that acquisition. As a result, stockholders of a separate, independent company with the same assets might receive a greater amount of proceeds than the holders of Liberty Formula One common stock or Liberty Live common stock would receive upon a sale of all or substantially all of the assets of the group to which their shares relate. In addition, we cannot assure you that in the event of such a sale the per share consideration to be paid to holders of Liberty Formula One common stock or Liberty Live common stock, as the case may be, will be equal to or more than the per share value of that share of stock prior to or after the announcement of a sale of all or substantially all of the assets of the applicable group. Further, there is no requirement that the consideration paid be tax-free to the holders of the shares of common stock related to that group. Accordingly, if we sell all or substantially all of the assets attributed to the Formula One Group or the Liberty Live Group, our stockholders could suffer a loss in the value of their investment in our stock.
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In the event of a liquidation of Liberty, holders of Liberty Formula One common stock and Liberty Live common stock will not have a priority with respect to the assets attributed to the related tracking stock group remaining for distribution to stockholders.
Under our current Charter, upon Liberty’s liquidation, dissolution or winding up, holders of Liberty Formula One common stock and Liberty Live common stock will be entitled to receive, in respect of their shares of such stock, their proportionate interest in all of Liberty’s assets, if any, remaining for distribution to holders of common stock in proportion to their respective number of “liquidation units” per share, as previously determined in connection with the Reclassification. Hence, the assets to be distributed to a holder of any of our tracking stocks upon a liquidation, dissolution or winding up of Liberty will have nothing to do with the value of the assets attributed to the related tracking stock group or to changes in the relative value of Liberty Formula One common stock and Liberty Live common stock over time.
Holders of Liberty Formula One common stock and Liberty Live common stock vote together and have limited separate voting rights.
Holders of Series A and Series B Liberty Formula One common stock and Liberty Live common stock vote together as a single class, except in certain limited circumstances prescribed by our current Charter and under Delaware law. Each share of Series B common stock of each group has ten votes per share, and each share of Series A common stock of each group has one vote per share. Holders of Series C common stock of each group have no voting rights, other than those required under Delaware law. When holders of Liberty Formula One common stock and Liberty Live common stock vote together as a single class, holders having a majority of the votes are in a position to control the outcome of the vote even if the matter involves a conflict of interest among our stockholders or has a greater impact on one group than another.
Transactions in Liberty Formula One common stock and Liberty Live common stock by our insiders could depress the market price of those stocks.
Sales of, or hedging transactions such as collars relating to, shares of Liberty Formula One common stock or Liberty Live common stock by our Chairman of the Board of Directors, or any of our other directors or executive officers, could cause a perception in the marketplace that the stock price of the relevant shares has peaked or that adverse events or trends have occurred or may be occurring at our Company or the group to which the shares relates. This perception can result notwithstanding any personal financial motivation for these transactions. As a result, insider transactions could depress the market price for shares of the Liberty Formula One common stock or Liberty Live common stock.
Our capital structure, as well as the fact that the Formula One Group and the Liberty Live Group are not independent companies, may inhibit or prevent acquisition bids for the businesses attributed to the Formula One Group or the Liberty Live Group and may make it difficult for a third party to acquire us, even if doing so may be beneficial to our stockholders.
If the Formula One Group and the Liberty Live Group were separate independent companies, any person interested in acquiring the Formula One Group or the Liberty Live Group without negotiating with management could seek control of that group by obtaining control of its outstanding voting stock, by means of a tender offer or a proxy contest. Although we intend Liberty Formula One common stock and Liberty Live common stock to reflect the separate economic performance of the Formula One Group and the Liberty Live Group, respectively, those groups are not separate entities and a person interested in acquiring only one group without negotiation with our management could obtain control of that group only by obtaining control of a majority in voting power of all of the outstanding voting shares of our Company. The existence of shares of common stock, and different series of shares, relating to different groups could present complexities and in certain circumstances pose obstacles, financial and otherwise, to an acquiring person that are not present in companies that do not have a capital structure similar to ours.
Certain provisions of our current Charter and bylaws may discourage, delay or prevent a change in control of our Company that a stockholder may consider favorable. These provisions include:
● | authorizing a capital structure with multiple series of common stock: a Series B common stock related to each group that entitles the holders to ten votes per share, a Series A common stock related to each group that |
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entitles the holder to one vote per share, and a Series C common stock related to each group that, except as otherwise required by Delaware law, entitles the holder to no voting rights; |
● | classifying the Board of Directors with staggered three-year terms, which may lengthen the time required to gain control of the Board of Directors; |
● | limiting who may call special meetings of stockholders; |
● | prohibiting stockholder action by written consent, thereby requiring all stockholder actions to be taken at a meeting of the stockholders; |
● | establishing advance notice requirements for nominations of candidates for election to the Board of Directors or for proposing matters that can be acted upon by stockholders at stockholder meetings; |
● | requiring stockholder approval by holders of at least 66⅔% of our aggregate voting power or the approval by at least 75% of the Board of Directors with respect to certain extraordinary matters, such as a merger or consolidation of our Company, a sale of all or substantially all of our assets or an amendment to our current Charter; and |
● | the existence of authorized and unissued stock, including “blank check” preferred stock, which could be issued by the Board of Directors to persons friendly to our then current management, thereby protecting the continuity of our management, or which could be used to dilute the stock ownership of persons seeking to obtain control of our Company. |
Liberty’s Chairman, John C. Malone, beneficially owns shares (based on outstanding share information as of September 30, 2024) representing the power to direct approximately 49% of the aggregate voting power in Liberty, due to his beneficial ownership of approximately 97% of the outstanding shares of each of the Series B Liberty Formula One common stock and the Series B Liberty Live common stock.
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities, Use of Proceeds, and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
Share Repurchase Programs
In November 2019, our board of directors authorized the repurchase of $1 billion of the Company’s common stock. In May 2022, our board of directors authorized the repurchase of an additional $1 billion of the Company’s common stock.
There were no repurchases of Liberty SiriusXM common stock, Liberty Formula One common stock or Liberty Live common stock during the three months ended September 30, 2024. As of September 30, 2024, approximately $1.1 billion was available for future share repurchase under our share repurchase program.
During the three months ended September 30, 2024, no shares of Liberty Formula One common stock or Liberty Live common stock, no shares of Series A Liberty SiriusXM common stock and 2,450 shares of Series C Liberty SiriusXM common stock were surrendered by our officers and employees to pay withholding taxes and other deductions in connection with the vesting of their restricted stock, restricted stock units and options.
Item 5. Other Information
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Item 6. Exhibits
(a) Exhibits
Listed below are the exhibits which are filed as a part of this Quarterly Report (according to the number assigned to them in Item 601 of Regulation S-K):
Exhibit No. | Name | |
3.1 | ||
10.1 | ||
10.2 | ||
10.3 | ||
31.1 | ||
31.2 | ||
32 | ||
99.1 | Unaudited Attributed Financial Information for Tracking Stock Groups* | |
101.INS | Inline XBRL Instance Document* - The instance document does not appear in the interactive data file because its XBRL tags are embedded within the inline XBRL document. | |
101.SCH | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document* | |
101.CAL | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Calculation Linkbase Document* | |
101.LAB | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Label Linkbase Document* | |
101.PRE | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Presentation Linkbase Document* | |
101.DEF | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Definition Document* | |
104 | Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101) |
* Filed herewith
** Furnished herewith
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION | |||
Date: | November 12, 2024 | By: | /s/ GREGORY B. MAFFEI |
Gregory B. Maffei President and Chief Executive Officer | |||
Date: | November 12, 2024 | By: | /s/ BRIAN J. WENDLING |
Brian J. Wendling Chief Accounting Officer and Principal Financial Officer |
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