UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
FORM 10-K
x ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 orOR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 20162018
 OR
or
o TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 orOR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period fromto                
 
Commission File No. 0-5890000-05890
GCI, LLC
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
 GCI, INC.State of Delaware92-0072737 
 (Exact nameState or other jurisdiction of registrant as specified in its charter)(I.R.S Employer
incorporation or organization)Identification No.) 
 State of Alaska91-1820757
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
(I.R.S Employer
Identification No.)
12300 Liberty Boulevard   
 
2550 Denali Street
Suite 1000
Anchorage, Alaska
Englewood, Colorado
 9950380112 
 (Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code) 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (907) 868-5600(720) 875-5900
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: None
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes o  No x
Yes ☐   No ☒
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Securities Act.  Yes o No x
Yes ☐   No ☒
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. Yes x No o
 Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (section 232.405232.504 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes x No o
Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (section 229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. x
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” "accelerated filer"filer," "smaller reporting company," and "smaller reporting"emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer o
Accelerated filer o
Non-accelerated filer
 (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)x
Smaller reporting company o
Emerging growth company x

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. x
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes o   No x
As of January 31, 2019, GCI, LLC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of GCI Liberty, Inc.

THE REGISTRANT MEETS THE CONDITIONS SET FORTH IN GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS I(1)(a) AND (b) OF FORM 10-k10-K AND IS THEREFORE FILING THIS FORM WITH THE REDUCED DISCLOSURE FORMAT.FORMAT PERMITTED BY GENERAL INSTRUCTION I(2)





GCI, INC.LLC
A WHOLLY OWNED SUBSIDIARIY OF GENERAL COMMUNICATION, INC.
20162018 ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
TABLE OF CONTENTS


Table of Contents
  Page No.
   
   
 Items 10, 11, 12 13, and 1413 are omitted per General Instruction I(1)(a) and (b)I(2)(c) of Form 10-k10-K. 
   




Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

You should carefully review the information contained in this Annual Report, but should particularly consider any risk factors that we set forth in this Annual Report and in other reports or documents that we file from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). In this Annual Report, in addition to historical information, we state our future strategies, plans, objectives or goals and our beliefs of future events and of our future operating results, financial position and cash flows.  In some cases, you can identify those so-called “forward-looking statements” by words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential,” “project,” or “continue” or the negative of those words and other comparable words.  All forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause our actual results, performance, achievements, plans and objectives to differ materially from any future results, performance, achievements, plans and objectives expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements.  In evaluating those statements, you should specifically consider various factors, including those identified under “Risk Factors,” and elsewhere in this Annual Report.  Those factors may cause our actual results to differ materially from any of our forward-looking statements.  For these forward-looking statements, we claim the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements provided by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

You should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements.  Further, any forward-looking statement, and the related risks, uncertainties and other factors speak only as of the date on which they were originally made and we expressly disclaim any obligation or undertaking to update or revise any forward-looking statement to reflect any change in our expectations with regard to these statements or any other change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based.  New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict what factors will arise or when.  In addition, we cannot assess the impact of each factor on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements.

PartPART I

Item 1. BusinessBusiness.

General
In this Annual Report, “we,” “us,” “our,” and “the Company” refer to GCI, Inc. and its direct and indirect subsidiaries.General Development of Business

GCI, Inc. was incorporated in 1997 to effect the issuance of Senior Notes as further described in note 6 to the accompanying "Consolidated Financial Statements" included in Part IV of this Report. GCI, Inc. asLLC is a wholly ownedwholly-owned subsidiary of GCI Liberty, Inc. On April 4, 2017, Liberty Interactive Corporation, now known as Qurate Retail, Inc. ("Qurate Retail"), entered into an Agreement and Plan of Reorganization (as amended, the "reorganization agreement" and the transactions contemplated thereby, the "Transactions") with GCI, LLC's parent company, General Communication, Inc. ("GCI"), receivedan Alaska corporation, and Liberty Interactive LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and a direct wholly owned subsidiary of Qurate Retail ("LI LLC"). Pursuant to the reorganization agreement, GCI amended and restated its articles of incorporation (which resulted in GCI being renamed GCI Liberty, Inc. ("GCI Liberty")) and effected a reclassification and auto conversion of its common stock. Following these events, Qurate Retail acquired GCI Liberty on March 9, 2018 through a reorganization in which certain Qurate Retail interests, assets and liabilities attributed to its initial capitalization all ownershipVentures Group (following the reattribution by Qurate Retail of certain assets and liabilities from its Ventures Group to its QVC Group) were contributed to GCI Liberty in exchange for a controlling interest in GCI Liberty (the "contribution"). Qurate Retail and LI LLC contributed to GCI Liberty their entire equity interests in subsidiaries previously heldLiberty Broadband Corporation ("Liberty Broadband"), Charter Communications, Inc. ("Charter"), and LendingTree, Inc. ("LendingTree"), the Evite, Inc. ("Evite") operating business and other assets and liabilities (collectively, "HoldCo"), in exchange for (a) the issuance to LI LLC of a number of shares of GCI Liberty Class A common stock and a number of shares of GCI Liberty Class B common stock equal to the number of outstanding shares of Qurate Retail's Series A Liberty Ventures common stock and Qurate Retail's Series B Liberty Ventures common stock on March 9, 2018, respectively, (b) cash and (c) the assumption of certain liabilities by GCI. GCI Liberty.

The contribution was incorporated in 1979treated as a reverse acquisition under the lawsacquisition method of accounting in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States ("GAAP"). For accounting purposes, HoldCo is considered to have acquired GCI, LLC's parent company, GCI Liberty, in the contribution based, among other considerations, upon the fact that in exchange for the contribution of HoldCo, Qurate Retail received a controlling interest in the combined company of GCI Liberty.

Following the contribution and acquisition of GCI Liberty, Qurate Retail effected a tax free separation of its controlling interest in the combined company, GCI Liberty, to the holders of Qurate Retail's Liberty Ventures common stock in full redemption of all outstanding shares of such stock (the "HoldCo Split-Off"), in which each outstanding share of Qurate Retail's Series A Liberty Ventures common stock was redeemed for one share of GCI Liberty Class A common stock and each outstanding share of Qurate Retail's Series B Liberty Ventures common stock was redeemed for one share of GCI Liberty Class B common stock. In July 2018, the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") completed its review of the StateHoldCo Split-Off and informed Qurate Retail that it agreed with the nontaxable characterization of Alaska and has its principal executive offices at 2550 Denali Street, Suite 1000, Anchorage, AK 99503-2781 (telephone number 907-868-5600).the transactions. Qurate Retail received an Issue Resolution Agreement from the IRS documenting this conclusion.

On May 10, 2018, pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of March 22, 2018, GCI Inc. is primarily a holding company and togetherLiberty completed its reincorporation into Delaware by merging with its directwholly owned Delaware subsidiary, which was the surviving corporation (the “Reincorporation Merger”). References to GCI Liberty prior to May 10, 2018 refer to GCI Liberty, Inc., an Alaska corporation and indirect subsidiaries, isreferences to GCI Liberty after May 10, 2018 refer to GCI Liberty, Inc., a diversified communications provider with operations primarily in the State of Alaska.Delaware corporation.

AvailabilityWe refer to the combination of ReportsGCI Holdings, LLC (“GCI Holdings”), an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of GCI, LLC, non controlling interests in Liberty Broadband, Charter and Other InformationLendingTree, a controlling interest in Evite, and certain other assets and liabilities as the “Company”, “us”, “we” and “our.”
Our Internet website address is www.gci.com. The information on our website is not incorporated by reference
* * * * *

Certain statements in this annual report on Form 10-K. We make available, free of charge, access to our Annual Report on Form 10-K Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, GCI's Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A and amendments to those materials filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d)constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities and ExchangeLitigation Reform Act of 1934 as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically submit such material1995, including statements regarding the Company's business, product and marketing strategies; new service offerings; revenue growth; the recoverability of the Company's goodwill and other long-lived assets; the Company's projected sources and uses of cash; renewal of licenses; the effects of regulatory developments; the Rural Healthcare Program; the new customer billing system and the anticipated impact of certain contingent liabilities related to legal and tax proceedings and other matters arising in the SEC.

Financial Information about Industry Segments
For financial information about our two reportable segments - Wireless and Wireline, see “Part II —ordinary course of business.  In particular, statements under Item 7 — Management’s1. "Business," Item 1A. "Risk-Factors," Item 2. "Properties," Item 7. "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”  Also referOperations" and Item 7A. "Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk" contain forward-looking statements.  Where, in any forward-looking statement, the Company expresses an expectation or belief as to Note 11 included


future results or events, such expectation or belief is expressed in “Part II —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 that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated:

The ability of the Company to successfully integrate and recognize anticipated efficiencies and benefits from the Transactions; 
customer demand for the Company's products and services and the Company's ability to adapt to changes in demand; 
the ability of GCI Holdings to recognize anticipated efficiencies and benefits from its new billing system;
competitor responses to the Company's and its businesses' products and services; 
the levels of online traffic to the Company's businesses' websites and its ability to convert visitors into consumers or contributors; 
uncertainties inherent in the development and integration of new business lines and business strategies; 
future financial performance, including availability, terms and deployment of capital; 
the ability of suppliers and vendors to deliver products, equipment, software and services; 
the outcome of any pending or threatened litigation; 
availability of qualified personnel; 
changes in, or failure or inability to comply with, government regulations, including, without limitation, regulations of the Federal Communications Commission ("FCC"), and adverse outcomes from regulatory proceedings; 
changes in the nature of key strategic relationships with partners, distributors, suppliers and vendors; 
domestic and international economic and business conditions and industry trends, specifically the state of the Alaska economy; 
consumer spending levels, including the availability and amount of individual consumer debt; 
rapid technological changes; 
failure to protect the security of personal information about the Company's and its businesses' customers, subjecting the Company and its businesses to potentially costly government enforcement actions or private litigation and reputational damage; and
the regulatory and competitive environment of the industries in which the Company operates.

These forward-looking statements and such risks, uncertainties and other factors speak only as of the date of this Annual Report, and the Company expressly disclaims 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.  When considering such forward-looking statements, you should keep in mind the factors described in Item 8 — Consolidated Financial Statements1A, "Risk Factors" and Supplementary Data.”other cautionary statements contained in this Annual Report.  Such risk factors and statements describe circumstances which could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement.
This Annual Report includes information concerning companies in which the Company has controlling and non-controlling interests that file reports and other information with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) in accordance with the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act").  Information in this Annual Report concerning those companies has been derived from the reports and other information filed by them with the SEC.  If you would like further information about these companies, the reports and other information they file with the SEC can be accessed on the Internet website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov.  Those reports and other information are not incorporated by reference in this Annual Report.



Narrative Description of our Business

The following table identifies the Company's more significant subsidiaries and minority investments:

Consolidated Subsidiaries
GCI Holdings, LLC
Evite, Inc.
    
Equity Method Investments
GeneralLiberty Broadband Corporation (Nasdaq: LBRDA; LBRDK)
We areLendingTree, Inc. (Nasdaq: TREE)

GCI Holdings, LLC

GCI Holdings, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of the largest Alaska-based communications provider as measured by revenues. We provideCompany, provides a full range of wireless, data, video, voice, and managed services to residential customers, businesses, governmental entities, and educational and medical institutions primarily in Alaska under ourthe GCI brand. Due to the unique nature of the markets we serve,it serves, including harsh winter weather and remote geographies, ourits customers rely extensively on ourits systems to meet their communication and entertainment needs.

Since GCI'sits founding in 1979 as a competitive long distance provider, we haveGCI Holdings has consistently expanded ourits product portfolio and facilities to become the leading integrated communication services provider in our markets. Ourmarkets it serves. Its facilities include redundant and geographically diverse digital undersea fiber optic cable systems linking ourits Alaska terrestrial networks to the networks of other carriers in the lower 48 contiguous states.  In recent years, we expanded our efforts in wirelessstates and presently operate the onlya statewide wireless network. 

For the year ended December 31, 2016, we generated consolidated revenues of $933.8 million.  We ended the period with 222,500 wireless subscribers, 140,800 cable modem subscribers and 125,800 basic video subscribers.

Development of our Business During the Past Fiscal Year
Tower Sale and Leaseback.  In August 2016, we sold to Vertical Bridge Towers II, LLC ("Vertical Bridge") 276 cell sites ("Tower Sites") in exchange for net proceeds of $90.8 million. We entered into a master lease agreement in which we lease back space at the Tower Sites for an initial term of ten years, followed by the option to renew for eight additional five year periods, for a total possible lease term of 50 years. Each lease is subject to a 2% annual increase in lease payments throughout the life of the initial lease and all subsequent lease renewals. See Note 2 included in "Part II - Item 8 - Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" for additional information.

Universal Service Fund Alaska High Cost Order. On August 31, 2016, the Federal Communications Commission ("FCC") published a Report and Order to reform the methodology for distributing Universal Service Fund ("USF") high cost support for both wireline and wireless voice and broadband service (“Alaska High Cost Order”).  The Alaska High Cost Order was a significant program change that required a reassessment of our high cost support revenue recognition. See Note 1 included in "Part II - Item 8 - Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" for additional information. As a result of the Alaska High Cost Order, our 2016 high cost support revenue under the USF program was $2.5 million less than the $66.2 million of high cost support revenue recognized in 2015. Additionally, we expect high cost support revenue under the USF program to be less than the 2015 level by approximately $5.0 million in each of 2017 and 2018, and $14.8 million annually from 2019 through 2026, the date the Alaska High Cost Order ends.

You should see “Part I — Item 1. Business — Regulation” for additional regulatory developments.

Business Strategy
We intend to continue to increase Adjusted EBITDA, as defined in Note 11 in "Part II - Item 8 - Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," using the following strategies:

Expand Our Product Portfolio and Footprint in Alaska.Throughout ourits history, we haveGCI Holdings has successfully added and expectexpects to continue to add new products to ourits product portfolio.  We haveGCI Holdings has a demonstrated history of new product evaluation, development and deployment for ourits customers, and we continueit continues to assess revenue-enhancing opportunities that create value for ourits customers.  Where feasible and where economic analysis supports geographic expansion of ourits network coverage, we areit is currently pursuing or expectexpects to pursue opportunities to increase the scale of ourits facilities, enhance ourits ability to serve our existing customers’ needs and attract new customers. Additionally, due to the unique market conditions in Alaska, we,GCI Holdings, and in some cases ourits customers, participate in several federal (and to a lesser extent locally) subsidized programs designed to financially support the implementation and purchase of telecommunications services like ours in high cost areas. With these programs we haveGCI Holdings has been able to expand ourits network into previously undeveloped areas of Alaska and for the first time, offer comprehensive communications services in many rural parts of the state where weit would not otherwise be able to construct facilities within appropriate return-on-investment requirements.


GCI Holdings' revenue was comprised of 49% from data services, 22% from wireless services and 29% from video, voice and other services from March 9, 2018 through December 31, 2018.

Make Strategic Acquisitions.  We haveGCI Holdings has a history of making and integrating acquisitions of telecommunications providers and other providers of complementary services.  OurIts management team will continue to actively pursue and make investments that we believeit believes fit with ourits strategy and networks and that enhance earnings.

Maximize Sales Opportunities. We sellGCI Holdings sells new and enhanced services and products to ourits existing customer base to achieve increased revenuesrevenue and penetration of ourits services.  Through close coordination of ourits customer service and sales and marketing efforts, ourits customer service representatives suggest to ourits customers other services they can purchase or enhanced versions of services they already purchase.  Many calls into ourthe customer service centers or visits into one of ourthe retail stores result in sales of additional services and products.

Deliver Industry Leading Customer Service. We have positioned ourselves as a customer service leader in the Alaska communications market.  We operate ourGCI Holdings operates its own customer service department and havehas empowered ourits customer service representatives to handle most service issues and questions on a single call.  We prioritize ourGCI Holdings prioritizes its customer services to expedite handling of ourits most valuable customers’ issues, particularly for ourits largest commercial customers.  We believe ourGCI Holdings believes its integrated approach to customer service, including service set-up, programming various network databases with the customer’s information, installation, and ongoing service, allows usit to provide a customer experience that fosters customer loyalty.

Leverage Communications Operations. We continueGCI Holdings continues to expand and evolve ourits integrated network for the delivery of ourits services.  OurGCI Holdings' bundled strategy and integrated approach to serving our customers creates efficiencies of scale and maximizes network utilization.  By offering multiple services, we areGCI Holdings is better able to leverage ourits network assets and increase returns on our its


invested capital.  WeGCI Holdings periodically evaluate ourevaluates its network assets and continually monitormonitors technological developments that weit can potentially deploy to increase network efficiency and performance.

DescriptionGCI Holdings does not hold franchises (with the exception of our Businessvideo services as described below) or concessions for communications services or local access services. GCI Holdings holds a number of federally registered service marks used by Reportable Segment
Overview
Ourits business.  It owns two reportable segments are Wirelessutility patents issued in 2017 pertaining to device diagnostics and Wireline.network connectivity. The following discussion includes information about significant servicesCommunications Act of 1934, as amended (the "Communications Act"), gives the FCC the authority to license and products, salesregulate the use of the electromagnetic spectrum for radio communications. GCI Holdings holds licenses for its satellite and marketing,microwave transmission facilities competitionfor provision of long-distance services. GCI Holdings holds various licenses for spectrum and seasonalitybroadcast television use. These licenses may be revoked and license renewal applications may be denied for eachcause. However, GCI Holdings expects these licenses to be renewed in due course when, at the end of our reportable segments.  Forthe license period, a discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations please see “Part II – Item 7 – Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”renewal application will be filed.

Wireless Segment
Wireless segment revenuesGCI Holdings has licenses for 2016, 2015 and 2014earth stations that are summarized as follows (amountsgenerally licensed for fifteen years. The FCC also issues a single blanket license for a large number of technically identical earth stations. Its operations may require additional licenses in thousands):
 Year Ended December 31,
 2016 2015 2014
Total Wireless segment revenues1
$208,109
 267,676
 269,977
1  See “Part II — Item 7 — Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and Note 11 included in “Part II — Item 8 — Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” for more information regarding the financial performance of our Wireless segment.
the future.

Services and Products
Our Wireless segment offers wholesale wireless services and products to wireless carriers.  We provide network transport and access to our wireless network to wireless carriers.  These services allow wireless carriersGCI Holdings is certified through the Regulatory Commission of Alaska ("RCA") to provide full wireless serviceslocal, long distance, and video service by Certificates of Public Convenience and Necessity (“CPCN”). These CPCNs are nonexclusive certificates defining each authorized service area. Although CPCNs have no stated expiration date, they may be revoked due to their customers.cause.

Sales and Marketing
Our Wireless segment sales and marketing efforts are primarily directed toward increasing the number of wireless carriers we serve and the number of voice and data circuits leased.  We sell our wireless services primarily through direct contact marketing.

Facilities
We own and operate a statewide network providing voice and data services to the urban and rural communities of Alaska. Our statewide wireless network provides 4G LTE data service, EVDO, 3G UMTS/HSPA+, 2G CDMA, and 2G GSM/EDGE service. We continue to expand and upgrade these services to provide a modern network for


Alaska. We own and operate Wi-Fi access points that create a Wi-Fi network branded as TurboZone in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, Kenai-Soldotna, Matanuska-Susitna Valley, and other areas of the State ("TurboZone").

Competition
Our Wireless segment competes with AT&T, Verizon, and smaller companies. We compete in the wholesale wireless market by offering competitive rates and by providing a comprehensive statewide network to meet the needs of carrier customers.

Seasonality
Our Wireless segment services and products do not exhibit significant seasonality. Our ability to implement construction projects is hampered during the winter months because of cold temperatures, snow, and short daylight hours.

Major Customer
The Wireless segment had no major customer in 2016. Verizon was the only major customer of the Wireless segment in 2015 and 2014.

Wireline Segment
Wireline segment revenues for 2016, 2015 and 2014 are summarized as follows (amounts in thousands):
 Year Ended December 31,
 2016 2015 2014
Total Wireline segment revenues1
$725,703
 710,858
 640,221
1  See “Part II — Item 7 — Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and Note 11 included in “Part II — Item 8 — Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” for more information regarding the financial performance of our Wireline segment.

Services and Products
Our Wireline segment offers services and products to two major customer groups as follows:
Customer Group
Wireline Segment Services and ProductsConsumerBusiness
Retail wirelessXX
Data:
InternetXX
Data networksX
Managed servicesX
VideoXX
Voice:
Long-distanceXX
Local accessXX

Consumer - We offer a full range of retail wireless, data, video, and voice services to residential customers.
Business Services - We offer a full range of wireless, data, video, voice, and managed services to businesses, governmental entities, and educational institutions and wholesale data and voice services to common carrier customers and regulated voice services to residential and commercial customers in rural communities primarily in Southwest Alaska.



Sales and Marketing
We offer our services directly to consumer and business customers through our call center, direct mail advertising, television advertising, Internet advertising, local media advertising, and through our retail stores. Our sales efforts are primarily directed toward increasing the number of subscribers we serve, selling bundled services, and generating incremental revenues through product and feature up-sell opportunities. We sell our managed services, wholesale data and voice services, and data services to rural schools and health organizations through direct contact marketing.

Facilities
We operateFacilities.GCI Holdings operates a modern, competitive communications network providing switched and dedicated voice and broadband services. OurIts fiber network employs digital transmission technology over ourits fiber optic facilities within Alaska and between Alaska and the lower 48 states.

We serveGCI Holdings serves many rural and remote Alaska locations solely via satellite communications. Each of our satellite transponders is backed up on alternate spacecraft with multiple backup transponders. We operateIt operates a hybrid fiber optic cable and digital microwave system (“TERRA”) linking Anchorage with the Bristol Bay, Yukon-Kuskokwim, and northwest regions of the state. 

Our video businesses are located throughout AlaskaGCI Holdings owns and serveoperates a statewide network providing voice and data services to the majorityurban and rural communities of the population. Our facilities include hybrid-fiber-coax plantAlaska. Its statewide wireless network provides 4G LTE data service, EVDO, 3G UMTS/HSPA+, 2G CDMA, and head-end distribution equipment. The majority of our locations on the fiber routes are served from head-end distribution equipment in Anchorage.  All of our cable systems are completely digital.2G GSM/EDGE service. It continues to expand and upgrade these services to provide a modern network for Alaska.

OurGCI Holdings' dedicated Internet access and Internet protocol data services are delivered to an Ethernet port located at the service end-point. OurGCI Holdings' management platform continuously monitors the network and service end-points for performance. The availability and quality of service, as well as statistical information on traffic loading, are continuously monitored for quality assurance. The management platform has the capability to remotely access network elements and service end-points, permitting changes in configuration without the need to physically be at the service end-point. This management platform allows usGCI Holdings to offer network monitoring and management services to businesses and governmental entities.

Competition
We operateGCI Holdings' video businesses are located throughout Alaska and serve the majority of the population. Its facilities include hybrid-fiber-coax plant and head-end distribution equipment. The majority of its locations on the fiber routes are served from head-end distribution equipment in intensely competitive industries and compete with a growing numberAnchorage. All of companies that provide a broad range of communication, entertainment, and information products and services. Technological changesits cable systems are further intensifying and complicating the competitive landscape and consumer behavior.completely digital.

Retail Wireless Services and Products Competition
We compete with AT&T, Verizon, and other community or regional-based wireless providers, and resellers of those services in Anchorage and other markets. Regulatory policies favor robust competition in wireless markets.  Wireless local number portability helps to maintain a high level of competition in the industry because it allows subscribers to switch carriers without having to change their telephone numbers.Evite

Evite is a digital invitation platform focused on bringing people together. With thousands of free and premium customizable designs which can be sent by email or text message, Evite makes celebrating face-to-face easier and more memorable for its over one hundred million annual users and their guests. The communications industry continuescompany has sent nearly 3 billion invitations. Real-time messaging and RSVP tracking continue to experience significant technological changes, as evidenced bymake planning easier. Evite generates revenue primarily from the increasing pace of improvements in the capacity and qualitysale of digital technology, shorter cyclesadvertising for new productspublication on its platform, including custom display advertising, native advertising content, custom video and enhancementsbrand partnerships. Evite conducts advertising sales through its direct regional sales teams and changesprogrammatically through ad exchanges. Additionally, through Evite® Donations which has raised over $10 million dollars, users can invite guests to support a favorite charity or personal cause without leaving their invitation. Launched in consumer preferences1998, Evite is headquartered in Los Angeles. Evite's competitors include Paperless Post and expectations.  Accordingly, we expect competition in the wireless communications industry to continue to be dynamic and intense as a result of the development of new technologies, services and products.

The national wireless carriers with whom we compete, AT&T and Verizon, have resources that are greater than ours.  These companies have significantly greater capital, financial, marketing, human capital, distribution and other resources than we do.  Specifically, as a regional wireless carrier we may not have immediate access to some wireless handsets that are available to these national wireless carriers. 

We compete for customers based principally upon price, bundled services, the services and enhancements offered, network quality, customer service, statewide network coverage and capacity, TurboZone, the type of wireless handsets offered, and the availability of differentiated features and services.  Our ability to compete successfully willvarious social media platforms.


depend, in part, on our marketing efforts and our ability to anticipate and respond to various competitive factors affecting the industry.
Liberty Broadband

Data ServicesLiberty Broadband consists of its wholly owned subsidiary Skyhook Holding, Inc. (“Skyhook”) and Products Competition
The Internet industry is highly competitive, rapidly evolvingan interest in Charter Communications, Inc. ("Charter"). Skyhook provides mobile positioning and subject to constant technological change.  Competition is based upon price and pricing plans, service bundles, the types of services offered, the technologies used, customer service, billing services, and perceived quality, reliability and availability.  We compete with other providers some of which are headquartered outside of Alaska and have substantially greater financial, technical and marketing resources than we do.contextual location intelligence solutions.

We expect to continue to provide, at reasonable pricesCharter is the second largest cable operator in the United States and in competitive bundles, a greater variety of dataleading broadband communications services than are available through other alternative delivery sources.  Additionally, we believe we offer superior technical performance and speed, and responsive community-based customer service.  Increased competition, however, may adversely affect our market share and results of operations from our data services product offerings.

Presently, there are a number of competing companies in Alaska that actively sell and maintain datacompany providing video, Internet and voice services to approximately 28.1 million residential and small and medium business customers at December 31, 2018. Charter also recently launched its Spectrum mobile services to residential customers. In addition, Charter sells video and online advertising inventory to local, regional and national advertising customers and fiber-delivered communications systems.  Our abilityand managed information technology (“IT”) solutions to integrate communicationslarge enterprise customers. Charter also owns and operates regional sports networks and data communications equipment has allowed us to maintain our market position based on customer support services rather than price competition alone.  These services are blended with other transport products into unique customer solutions, including managed serviceslocal sports, news and outsourcing.

Video Services and Products Competition
Our video systems face competition from services and devices that offer distribution of movies, television shows and other video programming, using alternative methods such as Internet video streaming and direct broadcast satellite ("DBS").  Our video systems also face competition from potential overbuilds of our existing cable systems.  The extent to which our video systems are competitive depends, in part, upon our ability to provide quality programming and other services at competitive prices.

Internet video streaming is a major source of competition for our video services.  Additionally, some online video services are also beginning to produce or acquire their own original content. However, as a major Internet-provider ourselves, the competition may result in additional data service subscriber revenue to the extent we grow average Internet revenue per subscriber.community channels.

The DBS industryCompany owns an approximate 23.5% economic interest in Liberty Broadband as of December 31, 2018. Due to overlapping boards of directors and management, the Company has been deemed to have significant influence over Liberty Broadband (for accounting purposes) even though the Company does not have any voting rights (see note 7 of the Company's consolidated financial statements found in Part II of this report for additional information). The Company has elected to apply the fair value option for its investment in Liberty Broadband as it is another majorbelieved that the Company’s investors value this investment based on the trading price of Liberty Broadband.

LendingTree

LendingTree operates an online loan marketplace for consumers seeking loans and other credit-based offerings. LendingTree offers consumers tools and resources, including free credit scores, that facilitate comparison-shopping for mortgage loans, home equity loans, lines of credit, reverse mortgage loans, auto loans, credit cards, personal loans, deposit accounts, student loans, small business loans and other related offerings. LendingTree primarily seeks to match in-market consumers with multiple lenders on its marketplace who can provide them with competing quotes for the loans, deposits or credit-based offerings they are seeking. LendingTree also serves as a valued partner to lenders seeking an efficient, scalable and flexible source of competition for our video services.  Two major companies, AT&T-owned DIRECTV and DISH DBS Corporation, are currently offering high-power DBS servicescustomer acquisition with directly measurable benefits, by matching the consumer loan inquiries it generates with these lenders. LendingTree is headquartered in Alaska.Charlotte, North Carolina.

Competitive forces may be counteracted by offering subscribers expanded programming.  We have retransmission agreementsThe Company owns approximately 26.6% of the outstanding common stock of LendingTree as of December 31, 2018. The Company has entered into an agreement with various broadcasters and provide for the uplink/downlink of their signals into certain of our systems, and local programming for our customers.  Additionally, our ownership of television stations provides us the opportunity to create unique content for our subscribers.

Video systems generally operateLendingTree pursuant to franchises granted on a non-exclusive basis.which, among other things, it has the right to nominate 20% of the members of LendingTree’s board of directors.  The 1992 Cable Act gives local franchising authorities jurisdiction over basic video service rates and equipment inCompany has nominated two of the absence of “effective competition.”  The 1992 Cable Act also prohibits franchising authorities from unreasonably denying requests for additional franchises and permits franchising authorities to operate video systems.  Well-financed businesses from outside the video industry may become competitors for franchises or providers of competing services.

We expect to continue to provide, at reasonable prices and in competitive bundles, a greater variety of video services than are available off-air or through other alternative delivery sources.  Additionally, we believe we offer superior technical performance and responsive community-based customer service.  Increased competition, however, may adversely affect our market share and results of operations from our video services product offerings.

Voice Services and Products Competition
Our most significant competition for local access and long-distance comes from wireless substitution and voice over Internet protocol services. Wireless local number portability allows consumers to retain the same phone number as they change service providers allowing for interchangeable and portable fixed-line and wireless numbers.  A growing number of consumers now use wireless service as their primary voice phone service for local calling. We


also compete against Incumbent Local Exchange Carriers ("ILECs"), long-distance resellers and certain smaller rural local telephone companies for local access and long-distance. We have competed by offering what we believe is excellent customer service and by providing desirable bundles of services.

See “Regulation — Wireline Voice Services and Products” below for more information.

Seasonality
Our Wireline segment services and products do not exhibit significant seasonality.  Our ability to implement construction projects is hampered during the winter months because of cold temperatures, snow and short daylight hours.

Major Customer
We had no Wireline segment major customers in 2016, 2015 or 2014.ten current board members.

Sales and Marketing – Company-wide
Our sales and marketing strategy hinges on our ability to leverage (i) our unique position as an integrated provider of multiple communications, data and video services, (ii) our well-recognized and respected brand names in the Alaskan marketplace and (iii) our leading market positions in the services and products we offer.  By continuing to pursue a marketing strategy that takes advantage of these characteristics, we believe we can increase our customer market penetration and retention rates, increase our share of our customers’ aggregate voice, video, data and wireless services expenditures and managed services expenditures, and achieve continued growth in revenues and operating cash flow.

Environmental Regulations
We undertake activities that may, under certain circumstances, affect the environment. Accordingly, they may be subject to federal, state, and local laws designed to preserve or protect the environment, including the Clean Water Act and the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act.  The FCC, Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Bureau of Indian Affairs, and National Park Service are among the federal agencies required by the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 and National Historic Preservation Act to consider the environmental impact of actions they authorize, including facility construction.Regulatory Matters

The principal effect of our facilities on the environment would be in the form of construction of facilities and networks at various locations in Alaska and between Alaska, Washington, and Oregon.  Our facilities have been constructed in accordance with federal, state and local building codes and zoning regulations whenever and wherever applicable.  We obtain federal, state, and local permits, as required, for our projects and operations. We are unaware of any material violations of federal, state or local regulations or permits.

Patents, Trademarks, and Licenses
We do not hold patents, franchises (with the exception of video services as described below) or concessions for communications services or local access services.  We hold a number of federally registered service marks used by our reportable segments.  The Communications Act of 1934, as amended, gives the FCC the authority to license and regulate the use of the electromagnetic spectrum for radio communications.  We hold licenses for our satellite and microwave transmission facilities for provision of long-distance services provided by our Wireline segment. We hold various licenses for spectrum and broadcast television use. These licenses may be revoked and license renewal applications may be denied for cause.  However, we expect these licenses to be renewed in due course when, at the end of the license period, a renewal application will be filed.

We hold licenses for earth stations that are generally licensed for fifteen years.  The FCC also issues a single blanket license for a large number of technically identical earth stations.  Our operations may require additional licenses in the future.

We are certified through the Regulatory Commission of Alaska ("RCA") to provide local, long distance, and video service by Certificates of Public Convenience and Necessity (“CPCN”). These CPCNs are nonexclusive certificates defining each authorized service area.  Although CPCNs have no stated expiration date, they may be revoked due to cause.



Regulation
OurCompany's businesses are subject to substantial government regulation and oversight.  The following summary of regulatory issues does not purport to describe all existing and proposed federal, state, and local laws and regulations, or judicial and regulatory proceedings that affect ourthe Company's businesses.  Existing laws and regulations are reviewed frequently by legislative bodies, regulatory agencies, and the courts and are subject to change.  WeThe Company cannot predict at this time the outcome of any present or future consideration of proposed changes to governing laws and regulations.

Wireless Services and Products

General. The FCC regulates the licensing, construction, interconnection, operation, acquisition, and transfer of wireless network systems in the United States pursuant to the Communications Act.  AsThe Company's wireless licensees, welicensee subsidiaries are subject to regulation by the FCC, and must comply with certain build-out and other license conditions, as well as with the FCC’s specific regulations governing wireless services.  The FCC does not currently regulate rates for services offered by commercial mobile radio service providers (the official legal description for wireless service providers).

Commercial mobile radio service wireless systems are subject to Federal Aviation Administration ("FAA") and FCC regulations governing the location, lighting, construction, modification, and registration of antenna structures on which ourGCI Holdings' antennas and associated equipment are located and are also subject to regulation under federal environmental laws and the FCC’s environmental regulations, including limits on radio frequency radiation from wireless handsets and antennas.

Universal Service. The High Cost Program of the USFUniversal Service Fund ("USF") pays Eligible Telecommunications Carriers ("ETCs") to support the provision of facilities-based wireless telephone service in high cost areas. A wireless carrier


may seek ETC status so that it can receive support from the USF.  Under FCC regulations and RCA orders, we areGCI Holdings is an authorized ETC for purposes of providing wireless telephone service in Anchorage, Juneau, Fairbanks, the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, and other small areas throughout Alaska. Without ETC status, weGCI Holdings would not qualify for USF support in these areas or other rural areas where we proposeit proposes to offer facilities-based wireless telephone services, and ourits net cost of providing wireless telephone services in these areas would be materially adversely affected.

On August 31, 2016, the FCC published the Alaska High Cost Order.  Per the Alaska High Cost Order, as of January 1, 2017, Remote high cost support payments to Alaska High Cost participants wasare frozen on a per-company basis at adjusted December 2014 levels for a ten-year term in exchange for meeting individualized performance obligations to offer voice and broadband services meeting the service obligations at specified minimum speeds by five-year and ten-year service milestones to a specified number of locations. Remote high cost support is no longer dependent upon line counts and line count filings are no longer required. Prior to the Alaska High Cost Order, Urban high cost support payments were frozen and had phased down to 60% of the monthly average of the 2011 annual support. The Alaska High Cost Order mandatesmandated that as of January 1, 2017, Urban high cost support for 2017 and 2018 willwould be two-thirds and one-third of the December 2014 level of support received, respectively, with Urban high cost support ending effective December 31, 2018.

On April 27, 2016,December 1, 2017, the FCC released a ThirdFourth Report and Order to reform and modernize the USF’s Lifeline program ("Lifeline Order").  The Lifeline program is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company ("USAC") and is designed to ensure that quality telecommunications services are available to low-income customers at just, reasonable, and affordable rates. The current Lifeline program provides an enhanced $25 monthly subsidy to qualifying subscribers that live on tribal lands ("Enhanced Tribal Subsidy"), which includes all of Alaska. The Lifeline Order adopted several reforms, including incentivizing and sometimes requiring broadband providersbut, most significantly, it limited the Enhanced Tribal Subsidy to offer fixed and/or mobile broadband service to Lifeline subscribers. Theonly those subscribers living in "rural" tribal areas. On February 1, 2019, the United States Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit ("D.C. Circuit") vacated the Lifeline Order also limitedas arbitrary and capricious, remanding the number of federal programs that confer Lifeline eligibility, and made small changesmatter to the requirementFCC for annual recertification of all Lifeline subscribers. Failure to correctly judge eligibility and recertify Lifeline subscribers could materially adversely affect our Lifeline revenues and/or increase our costs in the form of FCC fines for failure to comply with Lifeline rules.a new notice-and-comment-rulemaking proceeding.

Interconnection.  We haveGCI Holdings has completed negotiations and the RCA has approved current direct wireless interconnection agreements with all of the major Alaska ILECs.Incumbent Local Exchange Carriers ("ILECs").  These are in addition to indirect interconnection arrangements utilized elsewhere.

See “Description“Narrative Description of Our Business by Reportable Segment RegulationRegulatory Matters — Wireline Voice Services and Products — Regulatory Regime Applicable to IP-based Networks” for more information.



Emergency 911. The FCC has imposed rules requiring carriers to provide emergency 911 services, including enhanced 911 (“E911”) services that provide to local public safety dispatch agencies the caller’s phone number and approximate location. Providers are required to transmit the geographic coordinates of the customer’s location, either by means of network-based or handset-based technologies, within accuracy parameters revised by the FCC, to be implemented over a phase-in period.  Due to Alaska’s relatively low population and low cell-site densities, we haveGCI Holdings has excluded certain areas from E911 coverage where cell triangulation is not feasible, pursuant to FCC rule.  We haveGCI Holdings has also filed for a waiver, which remains pending, for remaining areas where triangulation may be technically feasible, but where the cell-site densities are insufficient to reach the FCC’s standard. The FCC also imposed requirements to allow users to text-to-911 if the local public safety dispatch agency requests and is able to receive such texts. We haveGCI Holdings has developed a text-to-911 technical solution and havehas certified to the FCC that we areit is now capable of meeting the FCC requirements. Providers may not demand cost recovery as a condition of providing E911, although they are permitted to negotiate cost recovery if it is not mandated by the state or local governments.

State and Local Regulation.Regulation. While the Communications Act generally preempts state and local governments from regulating the entry of, and the rates charged by, wireless carriers, it also permits a state to petition the FCC to allow it to impose commercial mobile radio service rate regulation when market conditions fail to adequately protect customers and such service is a replacement for a substantial portion of the telephone wireline exchange service within a state. No state currently has such a petition on file, and all prior efforts have been rejected.

In addition, the Communications Act does not expressly preempt the states from regulating the “terms and conditions” of wireless service. Several states have invoked this “terms and conditions” authority to impose or propose various consumer protection regulations on the wireless industry. State attorneys general have also become more active in enforcing state consumer protection laws against sales practices and services of wireless carriers. States also may impose their own universal service support requirements on wireless and other communications carriers, similar to the contribution requirements that have been established by the FCC.



States have become more active in attempting to impose new taxes and fees on wireless carriers, such as gross receipts taxes. Where successful, these taxes and fees are generally passed through to customers and result in higher costs to customers.

At the local level, wireless facilities typically are subject to zoning and land use regulation. Neither local nor state governments may categorically prohibit the construction of wireless facilities in any community or take actions, such as indefinite moratoria, which have the effect of prohibiting construction. Pursuant to Section 6409(a) of the Middle Class Tax Relief Act of 2012, state and local governments are further constrained in their regulation of changes to existing wireless infrastructure. Nonetheless, securing state and local government approvals for new antenna structures has been and is likely to continue to be difficult, lengthy and costly.

Data Services and Products

General. There is no one entity or organization that governs the global operation of the Internet. Each facilities-based network provider that is interconnected with the global Internet controls operational aspects of theirits own network. Certain functions, such as IP addressing, domain name routing, and the definition of the TCP/IP protocol, are coordinated by an array of quasi-governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental bodies. The legal authority of these bodies is not precisely defined.

The vast majority of users connect to the Internet over facilities of existing communications carriers. Those communications carriers are subject to varying levels of regulation at both the federal and state level. Thus, non-Internet-specific regulatory decisions exercise a significant influence over the economics of the Internet market.

Many aspects of the coordination and regulation of Internet activities and the underlying networks over which those activities are conducted are evolving. Internet-specific and non-Internet-specific changes in the regulatory environment, including changes that affect communications costs or increase competition from ILECs or other communications services providers, could adversely affect our costs and the prices at which we sellGCI Holdings sells Internet-based services.

On February 26, 2015, the FCC adopted an order reclassifying Internet service as a telecommunications service under Title II of the Communications Act. This order prohibitsprohibited broadband providers from blocking or throttling most lawful public Internet traffic, and from engaging in paid prioritization of that traffic.traffic, and from unreasonably interfering with or disadvantaging end users' and edge providers’ ability to send traffic to, from, and among each other. The order also strengthens itsstrengthened the FCC’s transparency rules, which require accurate and truthful service disclosures, sufficient for consumers to make


informed choices, for example, about speed, price and fees, latency, and network management practices. The order allowsallowed broadband providers to engage in reasonable network management, including using techniques to address traffic congestion. These rules applyapplied equally to wired and wireless broadband services. The order refrainsrefrained from applying rate regulation and tariff requirements on broadband services.  On January 4, 2018, the FCC released an order that returned to a Title I classification of Internet service and eliminated many of the requirements described above. There are various efforts in Congress, through the federal courts of appeal, and through state legislation to re-impose the rules adopted in 2015. For example, on September 30, 2018, California enacted the California Internet Consumer Protection and Net Neutrality Act of 2018, which establishes many of the requirements adopted by the FCC in 2015. California has agreed not to enforce the new law pending the resolution of a petition for review of the FCC’s January 4, 2018 order in the D.C. Circuit, and any subsequent proceedings before the U.S. Supreme Court. While we doGCI Holdings does not believe that the 2015 FCC order conflicts with ourits existing practices or offerings, the order willre-imposition of that regulatory framework would impose regulatory burdens, likely would increase ourits costs, and could adversely affect the manner and price of providing service.

On October 27, 2016, the FCC adopted rules governing how broadband internet access service providers may use and disclose certain customer information. Those rules were more restrictive in certain respects than the rules that apply to other entities in the internet economy, including Google and Facebook. On April 3, 2017, the President signed Pub. Law 115-22, which repealed the FCC’s rules under the Congressional Review Act. Various efforts in Congress, at the FTC, and in state legislatures seek to regulate how service providers in the internet economy may use and disclose customer information. Those efforts could impact GCI Holdings ability to use customer data and impose costs and operational challenges.

Rural Health Care Program.Program On December 12, 2012, the FCC created the Healthcare Connect Fund to supplement the existing Telecommunications Program of the. The USF Rural Health Care (“RHC”("RHC") Program subsidizes the rates for services provided to rural health care providers. In November 2017, USAC requested further information in support of the USF.  Healthcare providers can chooserural rates charged to participate undera number of GCI Holdings' RHC customers in connection with the existing Telecommunications Program and/orfunding requests for the new Healthcare Connect Fund.year that runs July 1, 2017 through June 30, 2018. On January 13, 2017, USAC announced that current projectionsOctober 10, 2018, GCI Holdings received a letter from the FCC's Wireline Competition Bureau (“Bureau”) notifying it of the Bureau’s decision to reduce the rural rates charged to RHC customers for the funding year endingthat ended on June 30, 2017 show2018 by approximately 26% resulting in a reduction of total support payments of $27.8 million. The FCC also informed


GCI Holdings that the total dollar valuesame cost methodology used for the funding year that ended on June 30, 2018 would be applied to rates charged to RHC customers in subsequent funding years. In response to the letter from the Bureau, GCI Holdings filed an Application for Review of all qualifyingthe Bureau’s decision with the FCC. In the third quarter of 2018, GCI Holdings recorded a $19.1 million reduction in its receivables balance as part of its acquisition accounting and recorded a reduction in revenue in the current period for the funding year that ended on June 30, 2018 of approximately $8.6 million. GCI Holdings expects to reduce future RHC program revenue by a similar rate as to the funding year that ended on June 30, 2018, which based on a current run rate would approximate $7 million per quarter until it can reach a final resolution with the FCC regarding the funding amounts.

On March 15, 2018, USAC announced that the funding requests will for the firstyear that runs July 1, 2017 through June 30, 2018 exceeded the funding available for the RHC Program. Since that time, either meet or exceedon June 25, 2018, the program’sFCC issued an order resulting in an increase of the annual RHC Program funding cap from $400 million annual cap. We cannot predictto $571 million and applied it to the impactfunding year that ended on June 30, 2018. The FCC also determined that it would annually adjust the RHC Program funding cap for inflation, beginning with the funding year ending on June 30, 2019 and carry-forward unused funds from past funding years for use in future funding years. As a result, aggregate funding was available to pay in full the approved funding under the RHC program for the funding year ended on June 30, 2018.

In addition, on March 23, 2018, GCI Holdings received a separate letter of inquiry and request for information from the Enforcement Bureau of the FCC, to which it is in the process of responding. This inquiry into the rates charged by GCI Holdings is still pending, and presently it is unable to assess the ultimate resolution of this changematter. The ongoing uncertainty in program funding could have an adverse effect on its business, financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

On November 30, 2018, GCI Holdings received multiple funding denial notices from USAC, denying requested funding from the RHC Program operated by a rural health customer (the “Customer”) for the funding year that ended on June 30, 2018. At the rates approved by the Bureau in a letter received on October 10, 2018, the funding at issue under the denials is approximately $13 million. In November 2017, USAC requested information from the Customer related to bidding process documentation for two separate service contracts GCI Holdings has with the Customer. Although the Customer timely responded, USAC found that bids previously received were not submitted with the original funding request and/or that bidding information submitted was related to the wrong bidding year. The Customer filed an appeal with USAC on January 29, 2019. At this time, GCI Holdings has no reason to believe that there was any violation of the FCC’s competitive bidding rules, but without further information from the Customer and/or USAC, it cannot assess whether the USAC denials will be overturned. If the denial notices are upheld for reasons relating to the Customer’s competitive bidding process, funding issued under one or both contracts for prior years could be subject to further review, as well as funding for services already being delivered or to be delivered for the period from July 1, 2018 through June 30, 2019. GCI Holdings has accounts receivable of approximately $18 million outstanding as of December 31, 2018 associated with these two service contracts. The outstanding accounts receivable includes the approximate $13 million of funding at issue as discussed above and additional amounts for services provided for the period from July 1, 2018 through December 31, 2018. Given the uncertainty of whether the USAC denials will be overturned, it is reasonably possible that GCI Holdings may incur a loss. The amount of a potential loss could range from zero to the full amount of the accounts receivable balance as of December 31, 2018. No amount within this range of a potential loss is a better estimate than any other amount. Accordingly, no loss was recorded as of December 31, 2018 given the minimum amount in the range is zero.

In addition, on December 4, 2018, the FCC issued a public notice seeking further comment on an earlier proposal to determine the rural rates for services supported by the RHC Program in a different manner than it does today. GCI Holdings and others submitted comments on January 30, 2019, but GCI Holdings cannot assess at this time.time the substance, impact on funding, or timing of any future rule changes that may be adopted by the FCC.

Schools and Libraries Program. On July 11 and December 11,In 2014, the FCC adopted orders modernizing the USF Schools and Libraries Program ("E-Rate"). These orders, among other things, increased the annual E-Rate cap by approximately $1.5 billion, designated funds for internal connections within schools and libraries, and eliminated funding for certain legacy services, such as voice, to increase the availability of 21st century connectivity to support digital learning in schools nationwide. These orders did not have a material effect on the overall E-Rate support available to ourGCI Holdings' schools and libraries customers, and therefore did not materially affect ourits revenue from such customers.

Other Federal Activities. Congress and certain federal agencies are considering ways to streamline federal permitting obligations and to provide additional financial support for broadband services in areas that are difficult to serve. GCI Holdings continues to monitor these activities and cannot predict at this time whether those efforts will make a material difference on its ability to deploy broadband infrastructure.



Video Services and Products

General. Because video communications systems use local streets and rights-of-way, they generally are operated pursuant to franchises (which can take the form of certificates, permits or licenses) granted by a municipality or other state or local government entity. The RCA is the franchising authority for all of Alaska. We believeGCI Holdings believes that we haveit has generally met the terms of ourits franchises, which do not require periodic renewal, and have provided quality levels of service. Military franchise requirements also affect ourits ability to provide video services to military bases.

The RCA previously regulated the basic service tier on our video system in Juneau. On June 3, 2015, the FCC adopted a rebuttable presumption that cable providers are subject to Effective Competition, and the RCA did not rebut that presumption by the filing deadline set by the new rules. Because the RCA did not rebut the presumption, we can now unwind our informational tariff in Juneau, with proper customer notice under the FCC rules, and apply our statewide basic service tier pricing in Juneau. The RCA does not regulate rates for cable modem service.

Must Carry/Retransmission Consent. The Cable Television Consumer Protection Act of 1992 (the "1992 Cable ActAct") contains broadcast signal carriage requirements that allow local commercial television broadcast stations to elect once every three years to require a cable system to carry the station, subject to certain exceptions, or to negotiate for “retransmission consent” to carry the station.

The FCC has adopted rules to require cable operators to carry the digital programming streams of broadcast television stations. Further, the FCC has declined to require any cable operator to carry multiple digital programming streams from a single broadcast television station, but should the FCC change this policy, weGCI Holdings would be required to devote additional cable capacity to carrying broadcast television programming streams, a step that could require the removal of other programming services.

Pole Attachments. The Communications Act requires the FCC to regulate the rates, terms and conditions imposed by public utilities for cable systems’ use of utility pole and conduit space unless state authorities can demonstrate that they adequately regulate pole attachment rates. In the absence of state regulation, the FCC administers pole attachment rates on a formula basis. This formula governs the maximum rate certain utilities may charge for attachments to their poles and conduit by companies providing communications services, including cable operators. The RCA, however, does not use the federal formula and instead has adopted its own formula that has been in place since 1987. This formula could be subject to further revisions upon petition to the RCA.  In addition, on April 7,in 2011, the FCC adopted an order to rationalize different pole attachment rates among types of services, and on November 17, 2015, took further steps to bring telecommunications and cable pole attachment rates into parity. Though the general purpose of the rule changes was to ensure pole attachment rates as low and as uniform as possible, we doGCI Holdings does not expect the rules to have an immediate impact on the terms under which we accessit accesses poles. In addition, because the RCA has adopted its own formula, the FCC’s reclassification of broadband service as a “telecommunications service” is not anticipated to have any near-term impact.  WeGCI Holdings cannot predict the likelihood of


the RCA changing its formula, adopting the federal formula, or relinquishing its oversight of pole attachments to the FCC, any of which could increase the cost of ourits operations.

Copyright. Cable television systems are subject to federal copyright licensing covering carriage of television and radio broadcast signals. In exchange for filing certain reports and contributing a percentage of their revenuesrevenue to a federal copyright royalty pool that varies depending on the size of the system, the number of distant broadcast television signals carried, and the location of the cable system, cable operators can obtain blanket permission to retransmit copyrighted material included in broadcast signals. The possible modification or elimination of this compulsory copyright license is the subject of continuing legislative review.  WeGCI Holdings cannot predict the outcome of this legislative review, which could adversely affect ourits ability to obtain desired broadcast programming. Copyright clearances for non-broadcast programming services are arranged through private negotiations.

Wireline Voice Services and Products

General. As an interexchange carrier, we areGCI Holdings is subject to regulation by the FCC and the RCA as a non-dominant provider of interstate, international, and intrastate long-distance services.  As a state-certificated competitive local exchange carrier, we areGCI Holdings is subject to regulation by the FCC and the RCA as a non-dominant provider of local communications services.  Military franchise requirements also affect ourGCI Holdings' ability to provide communications services to military bases.

Universal Service. The USF pays ETCs to support the provision of facilities-based wireline telephone service in high cost areas. Under FCC regulations and RCA orders, we areGCI Holdings is an authorized ETC for purposes of providing wireline local exchange service in Anchorage, Juneau, Fairbanks, the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, and other small areas throughout Alaska. Without ETC status, weGCI Holdings would not qualify for USF support in these areas or other rural areas where we proposeit proposes to offer facilities-based wireline telephone services, and ourits net cost of providing local telephone services in these areas would be materially adversely affected. See “Description of Our Business by Reportable Segment - Regulation - Wireless Services and Products - Universal Service” for information on USF reform.



Rural Exemption and Interconnection. A Rural Telephone Company is exempt from compliance with certain material interconnection requirements under Section 251(c) of the 1996 Telecom Act, including the obligation to negotiate Section 251(b) and (c) interconnection requirements in good faith, unless and until a state regulatory commission lifts such “rural exemption” or otherwise finds it not to apply.  All ILECs in Alaska are Rural Telephone Companies except ACSAlaska Communications Systems Group, Inc.'s (“ACS”) in its Anchorage study area.  WeGCI Holdings participated in numerous proceedings regarding the rural exemptions of various ILECs in order to achieve the necessary interconnection agreements with the remaining ILECs. In other cases the interconnection agreements were reached by negotiation without regard to the implications of the ILEC’s rural exemption.

We haveGCI Holdings has completed negotiation and/or arbitration of the necessary interconnection provisions and the RCA has approved current wireline Interconnection Agreements between GCI Holdings and all of the major ILECs. We haveGCI Holdings has entered all of the major Alaskan markets with local access services.

See “Description“Narrative Description of Our Business by Reportable Segment — Wireline — Competition — Voice Services and Products Competition” for more information.

Access Charges and Other Regulated Fees. The FCC regulates the fees that local telephone companies charge long-distance companies for access to their local networks.  On November 29,In 2011, the FCC released rules to restructure and reduce over time originatingterminating interstate access charges, along with a proposal to adopt similar reforms applicable to terminatingoriginating interstate access charges.  The details of implementation in general and between different classes of technology continue to be addressed, and could affect the economics of some aspects of ourGCI Holdings' business. WeGCI Holdings cannot predict at this time the impact of this implementation or future implementation of adopted reforms, but we doGCI Holdings does not expect it to have a material adverse impact on ourits operations.

Access to Unbundled Network Elements. The ability to obtain unbundled network elements ("UNEs") is an important element of ourGCI Holdings' local access services business. WeThere is an open proceeding before the FCC to consider changes to UNE obligations. GCI Holdings cannot predict the extent to which existing FCC rules governing access to and pricing for UNEs will be changed in the face of additional legal action and the impact of any further rule modifications that are yet to be determined by the FCC. Moreover, the future regulatory classification of services that are transmitted over facilities may impact the extent to which weGCI Holdings will be permitted access to such facilities.  Changes to the applicable regulations could result in a change in ourits cost of serving new and existing markets. On July 7, 2017, ACS filed a petition in which it asked the FCC to regulate GCI Holdings as an ILEC pursuant to section 251(h)(2) of the Communications Act, including the requirement to provide competitors with access to unbundled network elements. GCI Holdings cannot predict at this time the outcome of this proceeding. However, grant of the petition in its entirety may subject GCI Holdings to regulatory burdens that could materially impact its costs.



Local Regulation. WeGCI Holdings may be required to obtain local permits for street opening and construction permits to install and expand ourits networks. Local zoning authorities often regulate ourGCI Holdings' use of towers for microwave and other communications sites. WeGCI Holdings is also are subject to general regulations concerning building codes and local licensing. The Communications Act requires that fees charged to communications carriers be applied in a competitively neutral manner, but there can be no assurance that ILECs and others with whom weGCI Holdings will be competing will bear costs similar to those we will bearit bears in this regard.

Regulatory Regime Applicable to IP-based Networks. On January 30,In 2014, the FCC adopted an order calling for experiments to examine how best to accelerate the technological and regulatory transitions from traditional TDM-based networks to IP-based technologies.  Although no entity has proposed conducting a technology transition experiment in ourGCI Holdings' service territory in response to the FCC’s January 2014 order, additional proposals for experiments are possible. WeGCI Holdings cannot predict whether additional proposals for experiments might be submitted to the FCC nor any resulting proceedings or their effect on us.it. The FCC also has other open dockets through which it might make changes to the regulatory regime applicable to IP-based networks. A change in regulatory obligation or classification that interferes with ourGCI Holdings' ability to exchange traffic with other providers, that raises the cost of doing so, or that adversely affects eligibility for USF support could materially affect ourGCI Holdings' net cost of and revenue from providing local services.

Environmental Regulations
Financial Information about our Foreign
GCI Holdings undertakes activities that may, under certain circumstances, affect the environment. Accordingly, they may be subject to federal, state, and Domestic Operationslocal laws designed to preserve or protect the environment, including the Clean Water Act and Export Salesthe Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act.  The FCC, Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest
We do not have significant foreign operations or export sales.  We conduct our operations throughout

Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Bureau of Indian Affairs, and National Park Service are among the contiguous United Statesfederal agencies required by the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 and National Historic Preservation Act to consider the environmental impact of actions they authorize, including facility construction.

The principal effect of GCI Holdings' facilities on the environment would be in the form of construction of facilities and networks at various locations in Alaska and believe thatbetween Alaska, Washington, and Oregon.  GCI Holdings' facilities have been constructed in accordance with federal, state and local building codes and zoning regulations whenever and wherever applicable.  GCI Holdings obtains federal, state, and local permits, as required, for its projects and operations. GCI Holdings is unaware of any subdivisionmaterial violations of our operations into distinct geographic areas would not be meaningful.federal, state or local regulations or permits.

Company-Sponsored ResearchCompetition
We
The Company operates in intensely competitive industries and competes with a number of companies that provide a broad range of communication, entertainment, and information products and services. Technological changes are further intensifying and complicating the competitive landscape and consumer behavior.

Retail Wireless Services and Products Competition
The Company competes with AT&T, Verizon, and community or regional-based wireless providers, and resellers of those services in Anchorage and other markets. Regulatory policies favor robust competition in wireless markets.  Wireless local number portability helps to maintain a high level of competition in the industry because it allows subscribers to switch carriers without having to change their telephone numbers.

The communications industry continues to experience significant technological changes, as evidenced by the increasing pace of improvements in the capacity and quality of digital technology, shorter cycles for new products and enhancements and changes in consumer preferences and expectations.  Accordingly, the Company expects competition in the wireless communications industry to continue to be dynamic and intense as a result of the development of new technologies, services and products.

The national wireless carriers with whom the Company competes, AT&T and Verizon, have resources that are greater than the Company's resources.  These companies have significantly greater capital, financial, marketing, human capital, distribution and other resources than the Company.  Specifically, as a regional wireless carrier the Company may not expended material amounts duringhave immediate access to some wireless handsets that are available to these national wireless carriers. 

The Company competes for customers based principally upon price, service bundles, the last three fiscal yearsservices and enhancements offered, network quality, customer service, billing services, statewide network coverage and capacity, the type of wireless handsets offered, and perceived quality, reliability and availability.  The Company's ability to compete successfully will depend, in part, on company-sponsored research activities.its marketing efforts and its ability to anticipate and respond to various competitive factors affecting the industry.

Data Services and Products Competition
The Internet industry is highly competitive, rapidly evolving and subject to constant technological change. Competition is based upon price, service bundles, the services and enhancements offered, the technologies used, customer service, billing services, and perceived quality, reliability and availability.  The Company competes with other providers some of which are headquartered outside of Alaska and have substantially greater financial, technical and marketing resources.

The Company expects to continue to provide, at reasonable prices and in competitive bundles, a greater variety of data services than are available through other alternative delivery sources.  Additionally, the Company believes it offers superior technical performance and speed, and responsive community-based customer service.  Increased competition, however, may adversely affect the Company's market share and results of operations from its data services product offerings.

Presently, there are a number of competing companies in Alaska that actively sell and maintain data and voice communications systems.  The Company's ability to integrate communications networks and data communications equipment has allowed it to maintain its market position based on customer support services rather than price competition alone.  These services are blended with other transport products into unique customer solutions, including managed services and outsourcing.

Video Services and Products Competition
The Company's video systems face competition from services and devices that offer distribution of movies, television shows and other video programming, using alternative methods such as Internet video streaming and direct broadcast satellite ("DBS").  The Company's video systems also face competition from potential overbuilds of its existing cable systems.  The


extent to which the Company's video systems are competitive depends, in part, upon its ability to provide quality programming and other services at competitive prices.

Internet video streaming is a major source of competition for the Company's video services.  Additionally, some online video services produce or acquire their own original content. However, as a major Internet-provider, the competition may result in additional data service subscriber revenue for the Company to the extent it grows average Internet revenue per subscriber.

The DBS industry is another major source of competition for the Company's video services.  Two major companies, AT&T-owned DIRECTV and DISH DBS Corporation, are currently offering high-power DBS services in Alaska.

Video systems generally operate pursuant to franchises granted on a non-exclusive basis.  The 1992 Cable Act gives local franchising authorities jurisdiction over basic video service rates and equipment in the absence of “effective competition.”  The 1992 Cable Act also prohibits franchising authorities from unreasonably denying requests for additional franchises and permits franchising authorities to operate video systems.  Well-financed businesses from outside the video industry may become competitors for franchises or providers of competing services.

The Company expects to continue to provide, at reasonable prices and in competitive bundles, a greater variety of video services than are available off-air or through other alternative delivery sources.  Additionally, the Company believes it offers superior technical performance and responsive community-based customer service.  Increased competition, however, may adversely affect the Company's market share and results of operations from its video services product offerings.

Voice Services and Products Competition
The Company's most significant competition for local access and long-distance comes from wireless substitution and voice over Internet protocol services. Wireless local number portability allows consumers to retain the same phone number as they change service providers allowing for interchangeable and portable fixed-line and wireless numbers.  A growing number of consumers now use wireless service as their primary voice phone service for local calling. The Company also competes against ILECs, long-distance resellers and certain smaller rural local telephone companies for local access and long-distance. The Company has competed by offering what it believes is excellent customer service and by providing desirable bundles of services.

See “Regulatory Matters — Wireline Voice Services and Products” above for more information.

Employees
We employed 2,310 persons as
GCI, LLC currently does not have any corporate employees. Liberty Media Corporation ("Liberty Media") provides GCI, LLC with certain management services pursuant to a services agreement between Liberty Media and GCI Liberty and certain of Liberty Media’s corporate employees and executive officers provide services to GCI, LLC for a determined fee. As of December 31, 2016,2018, the Company's consolidated subsidiaries had an aggregate of approximately 2,270 full and we arepart-time employees and the Company is not subjectparty to any collective bargaining agreementsunion contracts with ourits employees. We believe our future success will depend upon our continued ability to attract and retain highly skilled and qualified employees. We believeThe Company believes that its employee relations with our employees are satisfactory.good.

Other
No material portion of our business is subject to renegotiation of profits or termination of contracts at the election of the federal government.

Item 1A. Risk Factors.

The risks described below and elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K are not the only ones that relate to our businesses or our capitalization. The risks described below are considered to be the most material. However, there may be other unknown or unpredictable economic, business, competitive, regulatory or other factors that also could have material adverse effects on our businesses. Past financial performance may not be a reliable indicator of future performance and historical trends should not be used to anticipate results or trends in future periods. If any of the events described below were to occur, our businesses, prospects, financial condition, results of operations and/or cash flows could be materially adversely affected.

Factors That May AffectRelating to Our Corporate History and Structure

The historical financial information of our Company prior to the Transactions and the historical financial information of Holdco is not necessarily representative of our future financial position, future results of operations or future cash flows, nor does it reflect what our financial position, results of operations or cash flows would have been as a combined, stand-alone company during the periods presented.

The historical financial information of our Company as presented in our filings under the Exchange Act, including our


Forms 10-K and 10-Q, made prior to the completion of the Transactions includes only the financial information of our pre-Transaction legacy operations (the “pre-Transaction GCI financial information”). Due to the treatment of a portion of the Transactions as a “reverse acquisition” under the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with GAAP, for accounting purposes, Holdco was considered to acquire GCI Liberty (the entity formerly known as GCI) in the Transactions. Therefore, the historical financial information of the Company is the historical financial information of HoldCo, and not the pre-Transaction GCI financial information. As a result, neither the current historical financial information of our Company nor the pre-Transaction GCI financial information is representative of our future financial position, future results of operations or future cash flows, nor do they reflect what our financial position, results of operations or cash flows would have been as a combined, stand-alone company, pursuing independent strategies, during the periods presented.

Our Company will conduct its operations to maintain its exclusion from the 40 Act, but nevertheless, may become subject to the Investment Company Act of 1940.
Following the completion of the Transactions, GCI, LLC is in the business of selling communications and
entertainment services to subscribers, and its economic success will be based on its ability to retain current subscribers and attract new subscribers. Further, the GCI Holdings operating subsidiaries are expected to generate substantially all of the cash flow of the consolidated GCI, LLC. GCI, LLC intends to continue to conduct its operations so that neither it nor any of its subsidiaries is required to register as an investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder (the “40 Act”). To ensure that GCI, LLC does not become subject to regulation under the 40 Act, GCI, LLC may be limited in the type of assets that it may continue to own or acquire and, further, may need to dispose of or acquire certain assets (through a purchase, sale, merger or other transaction) at such times or on such terms as may be less favorable to GCI, LLC than if it were not required to enter into such transaction to maintain its exclusion from regulation under the 40 Act. If for any reason, however, GCI, LLC were to become subject to regulation under the 40 Act (such as due to significant accretion in the value of its interests in certain publicly traded securities coupled with a reduction in the value of the GCI Holdings operations or a change in circumstance which results in a reclassification of certain of its operating assets as investment securities for purposes of the 40 Act), after giving effect to any applicable grace periods, GCI, LLC may be required to register as an investment company, which could result in significant registration and compliance costs, could require changes to its corporate governance structure and financial reporting, and could restrict its activities going forward. In addition, if GCI, LLC were to become inadvertently subject to the 40 Act, any violation of the 40 Act could subject it to material adverse consequences, including potentially significant regulatory penalties and the possibility that certain of its contracts could be deemed unenforceable.

The market value of GCI, LLC's interests in publicly-traded securities may be affected by market conditions beyond its control that could cause it to record losses for declines in such market value.

Substantially all of the contributed HoldCo assets consist of equity interests in publicly-traded companies. The contributed HoldCo assets included shares of Charter valued at approximately $1.5 billion, as of December 31, 2018, and shares of Liberty Broadband, which is Charter's largest shareholder with a 25.01% voting interest in Charter, valued at approximately $3.1 billion, as of December 31, 2018. Our Company has no ability to exercise control over either Charter or Liberty Broadband, and therefore we cannot cause either investee to take actions which may be in the best interest of our Company and our investment in these companies. Although many of the risks described below relating to our operating business similarly affect Charter and Liberty Broadband, for additional information regarding the risks and uncertainties specific to Charter and Liberty Broadband, holders of GCI, LLC's securities should please see “Part I-Item 1A. Risk Factors-Factors Relating to Our Corporate History and Structure” and “Part I-Item 1A. Risk Factors-Factors Relating to Charter” of Liberty Broadband's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018, filed with the SEC on February 8, 2019. In addition, as of the completion of the Transactions, the contributed HoldCo assets included an interest in the publicly traded equity of LendingTree with a market value of approximately $756.2 million, as of December 31, 2018. The value of these interests may be affected by economic and market conditions that are beyond our control, and our ability to liquidate or otherwise monetize these interests without adversely affecting their value may be limited.

Factors Relating to Our GCI Holdings' Business and Future Results

Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial may also materially and adversely affect ourthe business operations.operations of GCI Holdings, which we refer to as "GCI" in the following risk factors relating to the business of GCI Holdings.  Any of the following risks could materially and adversely affect our business, financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

We faceGCI faces competition that may reduce our market share and harm our financial performance.



There is substantial competition in the telecommunications and entertainment industries.  Through mergers, and various service integration strategies, and business alliances, major providers are striving to provide integrated communications services offerings within and across geographic markets.  We facestrengthen their competitive positions. GCI faces increased wireless services competition from national carriers in the Alaska market and increasing video services competition from DBS providers and over-the-top content providers who are often able to offer more flexible subscription packages and exclusive content.

We expect competition to increase as a result of the rapid development of new technologies, services and products.  We cannot predict which of many possible future technologies, products or services will be important to maintain ourGCI’s competitive position or what expenditures will be required to develop and provide these technologies, products or services.  OurGCI’s ability to compete successfully will depend on marketing and on ourits ability to anticipate


and respond to various competitive factors affecting the industry, including new services that may be introduced, changes in consumer preferences, economic conditions and pricing strategies by competitors.  To the extent we doGCI does not keep pace with technological advances or failfails to timely respond to changes in competitive factors in ourits industry and in ourits markets, weGCI could lose market share or experience a decline in ourits revenue and net income. Competitive conditions create a risk of market share loss and the risk that customers shift to less profitable lower margin services.  Competitive pressures also create challenges for ourits ability to grow new businesses or introduce new services successfully and execute ourits business plan.  WeGCI also facefaces the risk of potential price cuts by our competitors that could materially adversely affect ourits market share and gross margins.

OurGCI’s wholesale customers including ourits major roaming customers may construct facilities in locations where they contract with usGCI to use ourits network to provide service on their behalf. We would experience a decline in revenue and net income if any of ourGCI’s wholesale customers constructed or expanded their existing networks in places where service is provided on ourGCI’s network. Some of ourGCI’s wholesale customers have greater access to financial, technical, and other resources than we do. We expectit does. GCI expects to continue to offer competitive alternatives to such customers in order to retain significant traffic on ourits network. We cannot predict whether such negotiations will be successful. OurGCI’s inability to negotiate such contracts could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

For more information about competition by segment, see the sections titled “Competition” included in “Part 1 — Item 1 — Business — Description of our Business by Reportable Segment.”

If we experienceGCI experiences low or negative rates of subscriber acquisition or high rates of turnover, our financial performance will be impaired.

We areGCI is in the business of selling communications and entertainment services to subscribers, and ourits economic success is based on ourits ability to retain current subscribers and attract new subscribers. If we areGCI is unable to retain and attract subscribers, its and our financial performance will be impaired.  OurGCI’s rates of subscriber acquisition and turnover are affected by a number of competitive factors including the size of ourits service areas, network performance and reliability issues, ourits device and service offerings, subscribers’ perceptions of ourits services, and customer care quality. Managing these factors and subscribers’ expectations is essential in attracting and retaining subscribers. Although we haveGCI has implemented programs to attract new subscribers and address subscriber turnover, we cannot assure you that these programs or ourGCI’s strategies to address subscriber acquisition and turnover will be successful. A high rate of turnover or low or negative rate of new subscriber acquisition would reduce revenuesrevenue and increase the total marketing expenditures required to attract the minimum number of subscribers required to sustain ourGCI’s business plan which, in turn, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

WeGCI may be unable to obtain or maintain the roaming services we needit needs from other carriers to remain competitive.

Some of ourGCI’s competitors have national networks whichthat enable them to offer nationwide coverage to their subscribers at a lower cost than weGCI can offer. The networks we operateGCI operates do not, by themselves, provide national coverage and weGCI must pay fees to other carriers who provide roaming services to us. Weit. GCI currently relyrelies on roaming agreements with several carriers for the majority of ourits roaming services.

The FCC requires commercial mobile radio service providers to provide roaming, upon request, for voice and SMS text messaging services on just, reasonable and non-discriminatory terms.  The FCC also requires carriers to offer data roaming services. The rules do not provide or mandate any specific mechanism for determining the reasonableness of roaming rates for voice, SMS text messaging or data services and require that roaming complaints be resolved on a case-by-case basis, based on a non-exclusive list of factors that can be taken into account in determining the reasonableness of particular conduct or rates.  If weGCI were to lose the benefit of one or more key roaming or wholesale agreements unexpectedly, weit may be unable to obtain similar replacement agreements and as a result may be unable to continue providing nationwide voice and data roaming services for ourits customers or may be unable to provide such services on a cost-effective basis.  OurGCI’s inability to obtain new or replacement roaming services on a cost-effective basis may limit ourits ability to compete effectively for wireless customers, which


may increase ourits turnover and decrease our revenues,its revenue, which in turn could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.



OurGCI’s business is subject to extensive governmental legislation and regulation.  Applicable legislation and regulations and changes to them could adversely affect our business, financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

Wireless Services. The licensing, construction, operation, sale and interconnection arrangements of wireless communications systems are regulated by the FCC and, depending on the jurisdiction, state and local regulatory agencies.  In particular, the FCC imposes significant regulation on licensees of wireless spectrum with respect to:

How radio spectrum is used by licensees;
The nature of the services that licensees may offer and how such services may be offered; and
Resolution of issues of interference between spectrum bands.

Although the Communications Act of 1934, as amended, preempts state and local regulation of market entry and the rates charged by commercial mobile radio service providers, states may exercise authority over such things as certain billing practices and consumer-related issues.  These regulations could increase the costs of ourGCI’s wireless operations.  The FCC grants wireless licenses for terms of generally ten years that are subject to renewal and revocation. FCC rules require all wireless licensees to meet certain build-out requirements and substantially comply with applicable FCC rules and policies and the Communications Act of 1934, as amended, in order to retain their licenses.  Failure to comply with FCC requirements in a given license area could result in revocation of the license for that license area.  There is no guarantee that ourGCI’s licenses will be renewed.

Commercial mobile radio service providers must implement E911 capabilities in accordance with FCC rules.  While we believe that we are currently in compliance with such FCC rules, the failure to deploy E911 service consistent with FCC requirements could subject us to significant fines.

GCI uses tower facilities for the provision of its wireless services. The FCC, together with the Federal Aviation Administration,FAA, also regulates tower marking and lighting. In addition, tower construction is affected by federal, state and local statutes addressing zoning, environmental protection and historic preservation.  The FCC requires local notice in any community in which itan applicant is seeking FCC Antenna Structure Registrationantenna structure registration to build a tower.  Local notice provides members of the community with an opportunity to comment on or challenge the tower construction for environmental reasons.  This rule could cause delay for certain tower construction projects.

Internet Services. On February 26,In 2015, the FCC adopted an order reclassifying Internet service as a telecommunications service under Title II of the Communications Act. The order prohibitsprohibited broadband providers from blocking or throttling most lawful public Internet traffic, and from engaging in paid prioritization of that traffic.traffic, and from unreasonably interfering with or disadvantaging end users' and edge providers' ability to send traffic to, from, and among each other.  The order also strengthensstrengthened the FCC's transparency rules, which require accurate and truthful service disclosures, sufficient for consumers to make informed choices, for example, about speed, price and fees, latency, and network management practices.  The order allowsallowed broadband providers to engage in reasonable network management, including using techniques to address traffic congestion. The new rules applyapplied equally to wired and wireless broadband services. The order refrainsrefrained from imposing rate regulation or tariff requirements on broadband services.

On January 4, 2018, the FCC released an order that returned to a Title I classification of Internet service and eliminated many of the requirements described above. There are various efforts in Congress, through the federal courts of appeal, and through state legislation to re-impose net neutrality requirements or some variation thereof. For example, on September 30, 2018, California enacted the California Internet Consumer Protection and Net Neutrality Act of 2018, which establishes many of the requirements adopted by the FCC in 2015. California has agreed not to enforce the new law pending the resolution of a petition for review of the FCC’s January 4, 2018 order in the D.C. Circuit, and any subsequent proceedings before the U.S. Supreme Court. We cannot predict howwhether the FCC or Congress will interpretre-impose the 2015 rules or apply its new rules.  In addition, although the FCC forbore from many of the provisions of Title II, we cannot predict how the FCC will interpret or apply the statutory provisions and regulations from which it did not forbear.some variation thereof. It is possible that the FCC could interpret or apply its newany re-imposed rules or “Title II” statutory provisions or regulations in a way that has a material adverse effect on ourGCI’s business, financial position, results of operations, or liquidity.  There also is a risk class action lawsuits arising under the provisions of Title II from which the FCC did not forbear could have similar negative impacts. 

Proposals have been made before Congress to mandate Open Internet regulation that could supplement or supplant in whole or part the FCC’s new rules.  We currently cannot predict whether any such legislation will be adopted nor what impacts are most likely. 

Video Services. The cable television industry is subject to extensive regulation at various levels, and manyvarious aspects of such regulation often are currently the subject of judicial proceedings and administrative or legislative proposals. The law permits certified local franchising authorities to order refunds of rates paid in the previous 12-month period determined to be in excess of the reasonable rates. It is possible that rate reductions or refunds of previously collected fees may be required of usGCI in the future.



Other existing federal regulations, currently the subject of judicial, legislative, and administrative review, could


change, in varying degrees, the manner in which video systems operate. Neither the outcome of these proceedings nor their impact on the cable television industry in general, or on ourGCI’s activities and prospects in the cable television business in particular, can be predicted at this time. There can be no assurance that future regulatory actions taken by Congress, the FCC or other federal, state or local government authorities will not have a material adverse effect on ourGCI’s business, financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

Local Access Services. OurGCI’s success in the local telephone market depends on ourits continued ability to obtain interconnection, access and related services from local exchange carriers on terms that are reasonable and that are based on the cost of providing these services. Our local telephone services business faces the risk of unfavorable changes in regulation or legislation or the introduction of new regulations. OurGCI’s ability to provide service in the local telephone market depends on ourits negotiation or arbitration with local exchange carriers to allow interconnection to the carrier’s existing local telephone network (in some Alaska markets at cost-based rates), to establish dialing parity, to obtain access to rights-of-way, to resell services offered by the local exchange carrier, and in some cases, to allow the purchase, at cost-based rates, of access to unbundled network elements. Future negotiations or arbitration proceedings with respect to new or existing markets could result in a change in ourGCI’s cost of serving these markets via the facilities of the ILECIncumbent Local Exchange Carriers or via wholesale offerings. GCI’s local telephone services business faces the risk of unfavorable changes in regulation or legislation or the introduction of new regulations.

For more information about Regulations affecting our operations, see “Part 1 —Item 1 — Business — Regulation.”

Loss of ourGCI’s ETC status would disqualify usit for USF support.

The USF pays support to ETCs to support the provision of facilities-based wireline and wireless telephone service in high cost areas.  If weGCI were to lose ourits ETC status in any of the study areas where we areit is currently an authorized ETC whether due to legislative or regulatory reform or ourits failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations, weGCI would be ineligible to receive USF support for providing service in that area.  Loss of our ETC status could have an adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

RevenuesRevenue and accounts receivable from USF support may be reduced or lost.

We receiveGCI receives support from each of the various USF programs: high cost, low income, rural health care, and schools and libraries.  This support was 24%, 19%, and 19%23% of ourthe Company's revenue for the years endedperiod following the date of the Transactions through December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.  We2018.  The support received by pre-Transaction GCI during prior years was comparable. GCI had USF net receivables of $92.0 million and $98.1$91 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.2018.  The USF programs are subject to change by regulatory actions taken by the FCC, interpretations of or compliance with USF program rules, or legislative actions.  Changes to any of the USF programs that we participateGCI participates in could result in a material decrease in revenue and accounts receivable, which could have an adverse effect on GCI's business and the Company's financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

In November 2017, USAC requested further information in support of the rural rates charged to a number of our RHC customers in connection with the funding requests for the year that runs July 1, 2017 through June 30, 2018. On October 10, 2018, GCI received a letter from the Bureau notifying it of the Bureau’s decision to reduce the rural rates charged to RHC customers for the funding year that ended on June 30, 2018 by approximately 26% resulting in a reduction of total support payments of $27.8 million. The FCC also informed GCI that the same cost methodology used for the funding year that ended on June 30, 2018 would be applied to rates charged to RHC customers in subsequent funding years. In response to the letter from the Bureau, GCI filed an Application for Review of the Bureau’s decision with the FCC. In the third quarter of 2018, GCI recorded a $19.1 million reduction in its receivables balance as part of its acquisition accounting and recorded a reduction in revenue in the current period for the funding year that ended on June 30, 2018 of approximately $8.6 million. GCI expects to reduce future RHC program revenue by a similar rate as to the funding year that ended on June 30, 2018, which based on a current run rate would approximate $7 million per quarter until it can reach a final resolution with the FCC regarding the funding amounts.

On March 15, 2018, USAC announced that the funding requests for the year that runs July 1, 2017 through June 30, 2018 exceeded the funding available for the RHC Program. Since that time, on June 25, 2018, the FCC issued an order resulting in an increase of the annual RHC Program funding cap from $400 million to $571 million and applied it to the funding year that ended on June 30, 2018. The FCC also determined that it would annually adjust the RHC Program funding cap for inflation, beginning with the funding year ending on June 30, 2019 and carry-forward unused funds from past funding years for use in future funding years. As a result, aggregate funding was available to pay in full the approved funding under the RHC program for the funding year ended on June 30, 2018.

In addition, on March 23, 2018, GCI received a separate letter of inquiry and request for information from the Enforcement Bureau of the FCC, to which it is in the process of responding. This inquiry into the rates charged by GCI is still


pending, and presently it is unable to assess the ultimate resolution of this matter. The ongoing uncertainty in program funding could have an adverse effect on its business, financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

See “DescriptionOn November 30, 2018, GCI received multiple funding denial notices from USAC, denying requested funding from the RHC Program operated by a rural health customer (the “Customer”) for the funding year that ended on June 30, 2018. At the rates approved by the Bureau in a letter received on October 10, 2018, the funding at issue under the denials is approximately $13 million. In November 2017, USAC requested information from the Customer related to bidding process documentation for two separate service contracts GCI has with the Customer. Although the Customer timely responded, USAC found that bids previously received were not submitted with the original funding request and/or that bidding information submitted was related to the wrong bidding year. The Customer filed an appeal with USAC on January 29, 2019. At this time, GCI has no reason to believe that there was any violation of Our Business by Reportable Segment — Regulation — Wireless Servicesthe FCC’s competitive bidding rules, but without further information from the Customer and/or USAC, it cannot assess whether the USAC denials will be overturned. If the denial notices are upheld for reasons relating to the Customer’s competitive bidding process, funding issued under one or both contracts for prior years could be subject to further review, as well as funding for services already being delivered or to be delivered for the period from July 1, 2018 through June 30, 2019. GCI has accounts receivable of approximately $18 million outstanding as of December 31, 2018 associated with these two service contracts. The outstanding accounts receivable includes the approximate $13 million of funding at issue as discussed above and Products — Universal Service” and “Descriptionadditional amounts for services provided for the period from July 1, 2018 through December 31, 2018. Given the uncertainty of Our Business by Reportable Segment — Regulation — Wireline Voice Services and Products — Universal Service” for more information.whether the USAC denials will be overturned, it is reasonably possible that GCI may incur a loss. The amount of a potential loss could range from zero to the full amount of the accounts receivable balance as of December 31, 2018. No amount within this range of a potential loss is a better estimate than any other amount. Accordingly, no loss was recorded as of December 31, 2018 given the minimum amount in the range is zero.

WeIn addition, on December 4, 2018, the FCC issued a public notice seeking further comment on an earlier proposal to determine the rural rates for services supported by the RHC Program in a different manner than it does today. GCI and others submitted comments on January 30, 2019, but GCI cannot assess at this time the substance, impact on funding, or timing of any future rule changes that may be adopted by the FCC.

GCI may not meet ourits performance plan milestones under the Alaska High Cost Order.

As an ETC, we receiveGCI receives support from the USF to support the provision of wireline local access and wireless service in high cost areas. On August 31, 2016, the FCC published the Alaska High Cost Order which requires usGCI to submit to the FCC a performance plan with five-year and ten-year commitments.  If we areGCI is unable to meet the final performance plan milestones approved by the FCC weit will be required to repay 1.89 times the average amount of support per location received over the ten-year term for the relevant number of locations that weGCI failed to deploy to, plus ten percent of ourits total Alaska High Cost Order support received over the ten-year term. Inability to meet ourGCI’s performance plan milestones could have an adverse effect on ourits business, financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

WeGCI may lose USF high cost support if another carrier adds 4G LTE service in an area where weit currently provideprovides 4G LTE service.

Under the Alaska High Cost Order, the FCC adopted a process for revisiting after five years whether and to what extent there is duplicative support for 4G LTE service in rural Alaska and to take steps to eliminate such duplicative


support levels in the second half of the ten-year term. As a result, if another carrier builds 4G LTE service in an area where we areGCI is the sole provider and the FCC decides to redistribute the support then ourGCI’s high cost support may be reduced, which could have an adverse effect on ourits business, financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

Programming expenses for ourGCI’s video services are increasing, which could adversely affect our business.

We expect programming expenses for ourGCI’s video services to continue to increase in the foreseeable future.  The multichannel video provider industry has continued to experience an increase in the cost of programming, especially sports programming and costs to retransmit local broadcast stations. As ourGCI’s contracts with content providers expire, there can be no assurance that they will be renewed on acceptable terms or that they will be renewed at all, in which case weGCI may be unable to provide such content as part of ourits video services and our business could be adversely affected. If we addGCI adds programming to ourits video services or if we chooseGCI chooses to distribute existing programming to ourits customers through additional delivery platforms, weGCI may incur increased programming expenses.  If we areGCI is unable to raise ourits customers’ rates or offset such programming cost increases through the sale of additional services, the increasing cost of programming could have an adverse impact on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.



The decline in our Wireline segmentGCI’s voice services’ results of operations, which include long-distance and local access services, may accelerate.

We expect our WirelineGCI’s voice services’ results of operations, which include long-distance and local access services, will continue to decline.  As competition from wireless carriers, such as ourselves,GCI, increases we expect ourGCI’s long-distance and local access services' subscribers and revenuesrevenue will continue to decline and the rate of decline may accelerate.

WeGCI may not be able to satisfy the requirements of ourits participation in a New Markets Tax Credit ("NMTC"(“NMTC”) program for funding our TERRA-NWits TERRA project.

In 2011 and 2012 weGCI has entered into three separateseveral arrangements under the NMTC program with US Bancorp to help fund various phases of our TERRA-NWits TERRA project. In connection with the NMTC transactions weGCI received proceeds which were restricted for use on TERRA-NW.TERRA. The NMTCs are subject to 100% recapture of the tax credit for a period of seven years as provided in the Internal Revenue Code. We are required to be in compliance with various regulations and contractual provisions that apply to the NMTC arrangements.  We have agreed to indemnify US Bancorp for any loss or recapture of its $56.0$35.1 million in NMTCs plus interest and penalties until such time as our obligation to deliver tax benefits is relieved. Our obligation to deliver tax benefits is relieved in various stages from October 2019 through December 2019.2024. Non-compliance with applicable requirements could result in projected tax benefits not being realized by US Bancorp and could have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

Failure to complete testing and deploymentstay abreast of a new technology that supports new services could affect ourGCI’s ability to compete in the industry.  In addition, the technology we use may place us at a competitive disadvantage.

We testGCI tests and deploydeploys various new technologies and support systems intended to enhance ourits competitiveness by both supporting new services and featuresincrease the utility of its services. As GCI’s operations grow in size and reducingscope, it must continuously improve and upgrade its systems and infrastructure while maintaining or improving the costs associated with providing thosereliability and integrity of its systems and infrastructure. The emergence of alternative platforms such as mobile or tablet computing devices and the emergence of niche competitors who may be able to optimize products, services or features.  Successful implementation ofstrategies for such platforms will require new technologies and support systems depend,investment in part, on the willingness of third parties to develop new applications in a timely manner.  Wetechnology. GCI may not successfully complete the rollout of new technology and related features or services in a timely manner, and they may not be widely accepted by ourGCI’s customers or may not be profitable, in which case weGCI could not recover ourits investment in the technology.  There can be no assurance that GCI will be able to compete with advancing technology or introduce new technologies and systems as quickly as it would like or in a cost effective manner. Deployment of technology supporting new service offerings may also adversely affect the performance or reliability of ourits networks with respect to both the new and existing services.  Any resulting customer dissatisfaction could affect ourGCI’s ability to retain customers and may have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, or liquidity. In addition to introducing new technologies and offerings, weGCI must phase out outdated and unprofitable technologies and services.  If we areGCI is unable to do so on a cost-effective basis, weGCI could experience reduced profits.



Our business isGCI’s operations are geographically concentrated in Alaska and isare impacted by the economic conditions in Alaska.

We offerGCI offers products and services to customers primarily throughout Alaska. Because of this geographic concentration, growth of ourGCI’s business and operations depends upon economic conditions in Alaska.  The economy of Alaska is dependent upon the oil industry, state government spending, United States military spending, investment earnings and tourism. Prolonged periods of low oil prices will adversely impactimpacts the Alaska economy, which in turn could have an adverse impact on the demand for ourGCI’s products and services and on our results of operations and financial condition.  OilLow oil prices have continued to remain low which has put significant pressure on the Alaska state government budget since the majority of its revenuesrevenue come from the oil industry. While the Alaska state government has significant reserves that we believe willcould help fund the state government, for the next couple of years, major structural budgetary reforms will need to be implemented in order to offset the impact of declininglower oil prices. The State of Alaska failed to pass a workable long-term fiscal plan during the 2016 legislative session. As a result, we plan to reduce our 2017 Alaska capital expenditure budget by 20% to 25% of the 2016 target of $210.0 million due substantially to the continued uncertainty of the ability of the State of Alaska to adopt and implement a workable long-term fiscal plan.

The Alaska economy is officially in a recession. If the recession continues, it could negatively affect our business including our financial position, results of operations, or liquidity, as well as our ability to service debt, pay other obligations and enhance shareholder returns.that started in late 2015. While it is difficult for us to predict the future impact of the continuing recession on ourGCI’s business, these conditions have had an adverse impact on GCI’s business and could continue to adversely affect the affordability of and demand for some of ourits products and services and could cause customers to shift to lower priced products and services or to delay or forgo purchases of ourits products and services.  One or more of these circumstances could cause our revenue to decline.  Also, ourAdditionally, its customers may not be able to obtain adequate access to credit, which could affect their ability to make timely payments to us.GCI.  If that were to occur, we could be required to increase our allowance for doubtful accounts, and the number of days outstanding for our accounts receivable could increase. If the recession continues, it could continue to negatively affect GCI’s business including our financial position, results of operations, or liquidity, as well as our ability to service debt and pay other obligations.

Additionally, theThe customer base in Alaska is limited and we haveGCI has already achieved significant market penetration with respect to our its


service offerings in Anchorage and other locations in Alaska. WeGCI may not be able to continue to increase ourits share of the existing markets for ourits services, and no assurance can be given that the Alaskan economy will grow and increase the size of the markets we serveGCI serves or increase the demand for the services we offer.  As a result, the best opportunities for expanding our business may arise in other geographic areas such as the lower 49 states.  There can be no assurance that we will find attractive opportunities to grow our businesses outside of Alaska or that we will have the necessary expertise to take advantage of such opportunities.it offers.  The markets in Alaska for wireless and wireline telecommunications and video services are unique and distinct within the United States due to Alaska’s large geographical size, its sparse population located in a limited number of clusters, and its distance from the rest of the United States.  The expertise we haveGCI has developed in operating ourits businesses in Alaska may not provide usGCI with the necessary expertise to successfully enter other geographic markets.

Natural or man-made disasters or terrorist attacks could have an adverse effect on ourGCI’s business.

OurGCI’s technical infrastructure (including our communications network infrastructure and ancillary functions supporting ourits network such as service activation, billing and customer care) is vulnerable to damage or interruption from technology failures, power surges or outages, natural disasters, fires, human error, terrorism, intentional wrongdoing or similar events. As a communications provider, there is an increased risk that ourGCI’s technological infrastructure may be targeted in connection with terrorism or cyberattacks, either as a primary target, or as a means of facilitating additional attacks on other targets.

In addition, earthquakes, floods, fires and other unforeseen natural disasters or events could materially disrupt ourGCI’s business operations or ourits provision of service in one or more markets.  Specifically, the majority of GCI’s facilities are located in areas with known significant seismic activity. Costs we incurGCI incurs to restore, repair or replace ourits network or technical infrastructure, as well as costs associated with detecting, monitoring or reducing the incidence of unauthorized use, may be substantial and increase ourGCI’s cost of providing service. AnyMany of the areas in which GCI operates have limited emergency response services and may be difficult to reach in an emergency situation. Should a natural disaster or other event occur, it could be weeks or longer before remediation efforts could be implemented, if they could be implemented at all. Further, any failure in or interruption of systems that weGCI or third parties maintain to support ancillary functions, such as billing, point of sale, inventory management, customer care and financial reporting, could materially impact ourGCI’s ability to timely and accurately record, process and report information important to our business.  If any of the above events were to occur, weGCI could experience higher churn, reduced revenuesrevenue and increased costs, any of which could harm ourits reputation and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.



Additionally, our insurance may not be adequate to cover the costs associated with a natural disaster or terrorist attack.

Cyberattacks or other network disruptions could have an adverse effect on ourGCI’s business.

Cyberattacks against ourGCI’s technological infrastructure or breaches of network information technology may cause equipment failures, disruption of ourits operations, and potentially unauthorized access to confidential customer data. Cyberattacks, which include the use of malware, computer viruses, and other means for service disruption or unauthorized access to confidential customer data, have increased in frequency, scope, and potential harm for businesses in recent years. It is possible for such cyberattacks to go undetected for an extended period of time, increasing the potential harm to ourGCI’s customers, our assets, and our reputation.

To date, we haveGCI has not been subject to cyberattacks or network disruptions that, individually or in the aggregate, have been material to ourGCI’s operations or financial condition. Nevertheless, we engageGCI engages in a variety of preventive measures at an increased cost to us,GCI, in order to reduce the risk of cyberattacks and safeguard ourits infrastructure and confidential customer information. Such measures include, but are not limited to the following industry best practices: application whitelisting, anti-malware, message and spam filtering, encryption, advanced firewalls, threat detection, and URL filtering. Despite these preventive and detective actions, ourGCI’s efforts may be insufficient to repel a major cyberattack or network disruption in the future.

Some of the most significant risks to ourGCI’s information technology systems, networks, and infrastructure include:

Cyberattacks that disrupt, damage, and gain unauthorized access to ourGCI’s network and computer systems including data breaches caused by criminal or terrorist activities;
Undesired human actions including intentional or accidental errors;
Malware (including viruses, worms, cryptoware, and Trojan horses), software defects, unsolicited mass advertising, denial of service, ransomware, and other malicious or abusive attacks by third parties; and
Unauthorized access to ourGCI’s information technology, billing, customer care, and provisioning systems and networks and those of ourits vendors and other providers.



If hackers or cyberthieves gain improper access to ourGCI’s technology systems, networks, or infrastructure, they may be able to access, steal, publish, delete, misappropriate, modify or otherwise disrupt access to confidential customer data. Moreover, additional harm to customers could be perpetrated by third parties who are given access to the confidential customer data. A network disruption (including one resulting from a cyberattack) could cause an interruption or degradation of service as well as permit access, theft, publishing, deletion, misappropriation, or modification to or of confidential customer data. Due to the evolving techniques used in cyberattacks to disrupt or gain unauthorized access to technology networks, weGCI may not be able to anticipate or prevent such disruption or unauthorized access.

The costs imposed on us as a result of a cyberattack or network disruption could be significant. Among others, such costs could include increased expenditures on cyber security measures, litigation, fines, and sanctions, lost revenuesrevenue from business interruption, and damage to the public’s perception regarding our ability to provide a secure service. As a result, a cyberattack or network disruption could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and operating results.

Increases in data usage on ourGCI’s wired and wireless networks may cause network capacity limitations, resulting in service disruptions, reduced capacity or slower transmission speeds for ourGCI’s customers.

Video streaming services and peer-to-peer file sharing applications use significantly more bandwidth than traditional Internet activity such as web browsing and email. As use of these newer services continues to grow, ourGCI’s customers will likely use more bandwidth than in the past. Additionally, new wireless handsets and devices may place a higher demand for data on ourGCI’s wireless network. If this occurs, weGCI could be required to make significant capital expenditures to increase network capacity in order to avoid service disruptions, service degradation or slower transmission speeds for ourits customers. Alternatively, weGCI could choose to implement network management practices to reduce the network capacity available to bandwidth-intensive activities during certain times in market areas experiencing congestion, which could negatively affect ourits ability to retain and attract customers in affected areas. While we believe demand for these services may drive customers to pay for faster speeds, competitive or regulatory


constraints may preclude usGCI from recovering the costs of the necessary network investments which could result in an adverse impact to our business, financial condition, and operating results.

Prolonged service interruptions or system failures could affect ourGCI’s business.

We relyGCI relies heavily on ourits network equipment, communications providers, data and software to support all of ourits functions.  We relyGCI relies on ourits networks and the networks of others for substantially all of our revenues. We areits revenue. GCI is able to deliver services and serve ourits customers only to the extent that weit can protect ourits network systems against damage from power or communication failures, computer viruses, natural disasters, unauthorized access and other disruptions.  While we endeavorGCI endeavors to provide for failures in the network by providing back-up systems and procedures, weGCI cannot guarantee that these back-up systems and procedures will operate satisfactorily in an emergency.  Disruption to ourits billing systems due to a failure of existing hardware and backup protocols could have an adverse effect on our revenue and cash flow. Should weGCI experience a prolonged failure, it could seriously jeopardize ourits ability to continue operations.  In particular, should a significant service interruption occur, ourGCI’s ongoing customers may choose a different provider, and ourits reputation may be damaged, reducing ourits attractiveness to new customers.

If failures occur in ourGCI’s undersea fiber optic cable systems or ourGCI’s TERRA facilities and its extensions, ourGCI’s ability to immediately restore the entirety of ourGCI’s service may be limited and we could incur significant costs.

OurGCI’s communications facilities include undersea fiber optic cable systems that carry a large portion of ourits traffic to and from the contiguous lower 48 states, one of which provides an alternative geographically diverse backup communication facility to the other.  OurGCI’s facilities also include TERRA and its extensions some of which are unringed, operating in a remote environment and are at times difficult to access for repairs.  If a failure of both sides of the ring of our undersea fiber optic facilities or of our unringed TERRA facility and its extensions occurs and we are not able to secure alternative facilities, some of the communications services we offer to our customers could be interrupted which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations or liquidity.  Damage to an undersea fiber optic cable system or TERRA and its extensions could result in significant unplanned expenseexpense. If a failure of both sides of the ring of GCI’s undersea fiber optic facilities or GCI’s ringed TERRA facility and its unringed extensions occurs and GCI is not able to secure alternative facilities, some of the communications services GCI offers to its customers could be interrupted, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

If a failure occurs in ourGCI’s satellite communications systems, ourGCI’s ability to immediately restore the entirety of ourits service may be limited.

OurGCI’s communications facilities include satellite transponders that we useGCI uses to serve many rural and remote Alaska


locations.  Each of ourGCI’s C-band and Ku-band satellite transponders isare backed up using on-board transponder redundancy.  In the event of a complete spacecraft failure the services are restored using capacity on other spacecraft that are held in reserve.  If a failure of ourGCI’s satellite transponders occurs and we areGCI is not able to secure alternative facilities, some of the communications services we offerGCI offers to ourits customers could be interrupted which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

We dependGCI depends on a limited number of third-party vendors to supply communications equipment.  If we doGCI does not obtain the necessary communications equipment, weGCI will not be able to meet the needs of ourits customers.

We dependGCI depends on a limited number of third-party vendors to supply wireless, Internet, video and other telephony-related equipment.  If ourGCI’s providers of this equipment are unable to timely supply the equipment necessary to meet ourGCI’s needs or provide them at an acceptable cost, weGCI may not be able to satisfy demand for ourits services and competitors may fulfill this demand.  Due to the unique characteristics of the Alaska communications markets (i.e., remote locations, rural, satellite-served, low density populations, and our leading edge services and products), in many situations we deployGCI deploys and utilizeutilizes specialized, advanced technology and equipment that may not have a large market or demand.  OurGCI’s vendors may not succeed in developing sufficient market penetration to sustain continuing production and may fail.  Vendor bankruptcy, or acquisition without continuing product support by the acquiring company, may require usGCI to replace technology before its otherwise useful end of life due to lack of on-going vendor support and product development.

The suppliers and vendors on which we relyGCI relies may also be subject to litigation with respect to technology on which we depend,GCI depends, including litigation involving claims of patent infringement.  Such claims have been growing rapidly in the


communications industry.  We are unable to predict whether ourGCI’s business will be affected by any such litigation.  We expect ourGCI’s dependence on key suppliers to continue as they develop and introduce more advanced generations of technology. The failure of GCI’s key suppliers to provide products or product support could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, and results of operations.

We doGCI does not have insurance to cover certain risks to which we areit is subject, which could lead to the occurrence of uninsured liabilities.

As is typical in the communications industry, we areGCI is self-insured for damage or loss to certain of ourits transmission facilities, including ourits buried, undersea and above-ground fiber optic cable systems.  If we becomeGCI becomes subject to substantial uninsured liabilities due to damage or loss to such facilities, our financial position, results of operations or liquidity may be adversely affected.

We are inGCI recently completed the process of transferring ourits customer billing systems to a new third-party vendor. Any unanticipated difficulties, disruption or significant delays could have adverse operational, financial and reputational effects on our business.

We are currently implementingGCI recently implemented a new customer billing system, which involvesinvolved moving to a new third-party billing services vendor and platform in 2018. TheBecause the implementation was effected recently, the implementation may cause unforeseen major system or business disruptions or we may fail to implement the new billing system in a timely or effective manner.disruptions. In addition, the third-party billing services vendor may experience errors, cyber-attacks or other operational disruptions that could negatively impact usGCI and over which weGCI may have limited control. Interruptions and/or failure of this new billing services system could disrupt ourGCI’s operations and impact ourits ability to provide or bill for ourits services, retain customers, or attract new customers, and negatively impact overall customer experience. Any occurrence of the foregoing could cause material adverse effects on our operations and financial condition, material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting and reputational damage.

Concerns about health/safety risks associated with wireless equipment may reduce the demand for GCI’s wireless services.

GCI does not manufacture devices or other equipment it sells, and GCI depends on its suppliers to provide defect-free and safe equipment. Suppliers are required by applicable law to manufacture their devices to meet certain governmentally imposed safety criteria. However, even if the devices GCI sells meet the regulatory safety criteria, GCI could be held liable with the equipment manufacturers and suppliers for any harm caused by products GCI sells if such products are later found to have design or manufacturing defects. We cannot guarantee that GCI will be fully protected against all losses associated with a product that is found to be defective.

Portable communications devices have been alleged to pose health risks, including cancer, due to radio frequency emissions from these devices.  Purported class actions and other lawsuits have been filed from time to time against other


wireless companies seeking not only damages but also remedies that could increase the cost of doing business.  GCI cannot be sure of the outcome of any such cases or that the industry will not be adversely affected by litigation of this nature or public perception about health risks.  The actual or perceived risk of mobile communications devices could adversely affect GCI through a reduction in subscribers.  Further research and studies are ongoing, with no linkage between health risks and mobile phone use established to date by a credible public source.  However, we cannot be sure that additional studies will not demonstrate a link between radio frequency emissions and health concerns.

Additionally, there are safety risks associated with the use of wireless devices while operating vehicles or equipment. Concerns over any of these risks and the effect of any legislation, rules or regulations that have been and may be adopted in response to these risks could limit GCI’s ability to sell its wireless services.

Risk Related to Our Company as a Whole

We are a holding company with a substantial portion of our debt and other obligations held outside of our operating subsidiaries, and our ability to service that debt and such other obligations will require access to funds of our operating subsidiaries, which may be restricted.

In connection with the Transactions, our Company incurred substantial indebtedness, in addition to the indebtedness that GCI, LLC had outstanding prior to the completion of the Transactions, of $1.0 billion in term loan borrowings pursuant to the margin loan facility entered into by Broadband Holdco LLC (“Broadband HoldCo”), which margin loan facility includes the ability to request additional term loan facilities or increase the amount of the initial loan in an aggregate principal amount of up to $300 million (the “Margin Loan”). Subsequently, in October 2018, Broadband Holdco entered into Amendment No. 1 (the “Amendment”) to the Margin Loan (the “Margin Loan Agreement”). The Amendment established a revolving credit facility in an aggregate principal amount of up to $200 million (the “Revolving Credit Facility”) and reduced the existing term loan credit facility under the Margin Loan Agreement to $800 million (the “Term Loan Facility” and, together with Revolving Credit Facility, the “Margin Loan Facility”). The Margin Loan Facility is secured by a pledge of approximately 42.7 million shares of Series C common stock of Liberty Broadband, which constitutes all of the assets of Broadband Holdco. We expect that the GCI Holdings operating subsidiaries will generate substantially all of the cash flow of our consolidated company. As of December 31, 2018, the indebtedness of GCI, LLC consists of $900.0 million in borrowings under the Margin Loan Facility, $775.0 million in outstanding 6.75% senior notes due 2021 and the 6.875% senior notes due 2025 (together, the “Senior Notes”) and $715.1 million in outstanding term and revolving loans under a senior secured credit facility with a syndicate of banks (the “Senior Credit Facility”).

The ability of GCI, LLC, and Broadband Holdco to service their respective financial obligations will depend on their ability to access cash. The ability of GCI, LLC to access the cash of GCI's legacy operating subsidiaries will depend on those subsidiaries individual operating results and any statutory or regulatory restrictions. Additionally, as of December 31, 2018, GCI, LLC exceeded the maximum leverage threshold, as measured by the terms of the Senior Notes, and therefore does not have access to any additional funding under the revolving portion of the Senior Credit Facility. GCI, LLC's other potential sources of cash include its available cash balances, dividends and interest from its investments, monetization of the public investment portfolio contributed in the Transactions, and proceeds from asset sales. There can be no assurance that we will continue to maintain the amounts of cash or marketable securities that we have.

Our significant debt and lease obligations could adversely affect our business.

We have and will continue to have a significant amount of debt and lease obligations including capital, operating, and the tower obligationobligations (see Note 2 includednote 14 of the Company's consolidated financial statements found in "PartPart II - Item 8 - Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data"of this report for additional information). Our high level of debt and lease obligations could have important consequences, including the following:

Increasing our vulnerability to adverse economic, industry, or competitive developments;
Requiring a substantial portion of our cash flows from operations to be dedicated to the payment of principal and interest on our indebtedness, therefore reducing our ability to use our cash flows to fund operations, capital expenditures, and future business opportunities;
Exposing us to the risk of increased interest rates to the extent of any future borrowings at variable rates of interest;
Making it more difficult for us to satisfy our obligations with respect to our indebtedness. Any failure to comply with the obligations of any of our debt instruments, including restrictive covenants and borrowing conditions, could result in an event of default;indebtedness;
Restricting us from making strategic acquisitions or causing us to make non-strategic divestitures;
Limiting our ability to obtain additional financing for working capital, capital expenditures, product and service development, debt service requirements, acquisitions, and general corporate or other purposes; and


Limiting our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business or market conditions and placing us at a competitive disadvantage compared to our competitors who are less highly leveraged and who, therefore, may be able to take advantage of opportunities that our leverage may prevent us from exploiting.



We will require a significant amount of cash to service our debt and to meet other obligations.  Our ability to generate cash depends on many factors beyond our control.  If we are unable to meet our future capital needs it may be necessary for us to curtail, delay or abandon our business growth plans.  If we incur significant additional indebtedness to fund our plans, it could cause a decline in our credit rating and could increase our borrowing costs or limit our ability to raise additional capital.

We will continue to require a significant amount of cash to satisfy our debt service requirements and to meet other obligations.  As of December 31, 2018, we have outstanding approximately $2.4 billion of indebtedness. Our ability to make payments on and to refinance our debt and to fund planned capital expenditures and acquisitions will depend on our ability to generate cash and to arrange additional financing in the future.  These abilities are subject to, among other factors, our credit rating, our financial performance, general economic conditions, prevailing market conditions, the state of competition in our market, the outcome of certain legislative and regulatory issues and other factors that may be beyond our control.  Our business may not generate sufficient cash flow from operations and future borrowings may not be available to us in an amount sufficient to enable us to pay our debt or to fund our other liquidity needs.  We may need to refinance all or a portion of our debt on or before maturity.  We may not be able to refinance any of our debt on commercially reasonable terms or at all.

The terms of our debt obligations impose restrictions on us that may affect our ability to successfully operate our business and our ability to make payments on the debt obligations.

The indentures governing our Senior Notes and/or the credit agreements governing our Senior Credit Facility and other loans contain various covenants that could materially and adversely affect our ability to finance our future operations or capital needs and to engage in other business activities that may be in our best interest. For example, as of December 31, 2018, GCI, LLC exceeded the maximum leverage threshold, as measured by the terms of the Senior Notes, and therefore does not have access to any additional funding under the revolving portion of the Senior Credit Facility.

All ofThis restriction, along with these other covenants, may restrict our ability to expand or to pursue our business strategies.  Our ability to comply with these covenants may be affected by events beyond our control, such as prevailing economic conditions and changes in regulations, and if such events occur, we cannot be sure that we will be able to comply.  A breach of these covenants could result in a default under the indentures and/or the credit agreements.  If there were an event of default under the indentures and/or the credit agreements, holders of such defaulted debt could cause all amounts borrowed under these instruments to be due and payable immediately.  Additionally, if we fail to repay the debt under the Senior Credit Facility when it becomes due, the lenders under the Senior Credit Facility could proceed against certain of our assets and capital stock of our subsidiaries that we have pledged to them as security.  Our assets or cash flow may not be sufficient to repay borrowings under our outstanding debt instruments in the event of a default thereunder.

When our Senior Credit Facility and Senior Notes mature, we may not be able to refinance or replace one or both.

When our Senior Credit Facility and Senior Notes mature, we will likely need to refinance them and may not be able to do so on favorable terms or at all. In addition, if the 6.75% senior notes due 2021 are not refinanced prior to December 3, 2020, the full principal revolving credit facility included in the Senior Credit Facility will mature on that date. If we are able to refinance maturing indebtedness, the terms of any refinancing or alternate credit arrangements may contain terms and covenants that restrict our financial and operating flexibility.

Variable rate indebtedness subjects us to interest rate risk, which could cause our debt service obligations to increase significantly.

Our borrowings under our Senior Credit Facility are at variable rates of interest and expose us to interest rate risk. If interest rates increase, our debt service obligations on the variable rate indebtedness could increase even though the amount borrowed remained the same, and our net income and cash flow could decrease.

In order to manage our exposure to interest rate risk, in the future, we may enter into derivative financial instruments, typically interest rate swaps and caps, involving the exchange of floating for fixed rate interest payments. If we are unable to enter into interest rate swaps, it may adversely affect our cash flow and may impact our ability to make required principal and interest payments on our indebtedness.



Any significant impairment of our indefinite-lived intangible assets would lead to a decrease in our assets and a reduction in our net operating performance.performance and a decrease in our assets.

We had $526.3 million$1.4 billion of indefinite-lived intangible assets at December 31, 2016,2018, consisting of goodwill of $239.3$844.2 million, cable certificates of $191.6$305.0 million, wireless licenses of $92.3$190.0 million and broadcast licensesother intangibles of $3.1


$16.5 million. However, these valuations are not final and the acquisition price allocation is preliminary and subject to revision. Goodwill represents the excess of cost over fair value of net assets acquired in connection with business acquisitions and represents the future economic benefits expected to arise from other intangible assets acquired that do not qualify for separate recognition. Our cable certificates represent agreements with government entities to construct and operate a video business. Our wireless licenses are from the FCC and give us the right to provide wireless service within a certain geographical area. Our broadcast licenses represent permission to use a portion of the radio frequency spectrum in a given geographical area for broadcasting purposes. Goodwill represents the excess of cost over fair value of net assets acquired in connection with business acquisitions.

If we make changes in our business strategy or if market or other conditions adversely affect our operations, we may be forced to record an impairment charge, which would lead to a decrease in our assets and a reduction in our net operating performance. Our indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested annually for impairment during the fourth quarter and at any time upon the occurrence of certain events or substantive changes in circumstances that indicate the assets might be impaired. If the testing performed indicates that impairment has occurred, we are required to record an impairment charge for the difference between the carrying value and the fair value of the goodwill and/or the indefinite-lived intangible assets, as appropriate, in the period in which the determination is made. The testing of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment requires us to make significant estimates about our future performance and cash flows, as well as other assumptions. These estimates can be affected by numerous factors, including changes in economic, industry or market conditions, changes in underlying business operations, future operating performance, changes in competition, or changes in technologies. Any changes to key assumptions, or actual performance compared with those assumptions, about our business and its future prospects or other assumptions could affect the fair value, resulting in an impairment charge.

Due to certain market factors impacting GCI Holdings' operating results, impairment losses of $147 million and $65 million were recorded during the year ended December 31, 2018 related to goodwill and cable certificates, respectively, related to the GCI Holdings reporting unit. The fair value of the cable certificates and the GCI Holdings reporting unit was determined using an income approach (Level 3). As of December 31, 2018, accumulated goodwill impairment losses for GCI Holdings totaled $147 million.

Our ability to use net operating loss carryforwards to reduce future tax payments could be negatively impacted if there is an “ownership change” as defined under Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code.

GCI, Inc. asLLC is a wholly owned subsidiary and member of the GCI Liberty controlled group of corporations, and it files its income tax
returns as part of the consolidated group of corporations under GCI.GCI Liberty. Accordingly, all discussions regarding income
taxes reflect the consolidated group's activity. At December 31, 2016,2018, we have taxhad federal and state net operating losslosses and interest expense carryforwards of $268.0$150.0 million for U.S. federal income(on a tax purposeseffected basis) and, under the Internal Revenue Code, we may carry forward these net operating losses in certain circumstances to offset any current and future taxable income and thus reduce our federal income tax liability, subject to certain requirements and restrictions. If GCI Liberty experiences an “ownership change,” as defined in Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code and related Treasury regulations at a time when its market capitalization is below a certain level, our ability to use the net operating loss carryforwards could be substantially limited. This limit could impact the timing of the usage of the net operating loss carryforwards, thus accelerating cash tax payments or causing net operating loss carryforwards to expire prior to their use, which could affect the ultimate realization of that deferred tax asset.

Concerns about health/safety risks associated with wireless equipment may reduceWe have identified two material weaknesses in GCI Holdings’ internal control over financial reporting, that, if not properly remediated, could adversely affect our business and results of operations.
A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of the demandCompany’s annual or interim consolidated financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. As described in “Item 9A. Controls and Procedures,” we have concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was ineffective as of December 31, 2018 due to the two material weaknesses at our wholly-owned subsidiary, GCI Holdings. The material weaknesses, at December 31, 2018, were identified at GCI Holdings, a wholly owned subsidiary, as discussed below.
Information technology general controls (“ITGCs”) around financially significant information technology systems were not effective. Specifically, the ITGCs around system access were not operating consistently to ensure that access to applications and data was adequately restricted to appropriate personnel. Because of the deficiency in ITGCs for our wireless services.


these systems, the business process controls (automated and manual) that are dependent on these systems were also deemed ineffective because they could have been adversely impacted. We believe that these control deficiencies were a result of an inadequate assessment of IT risks, which in turn contributed to inappropriate reliance on manual business process controls rather than ITGCs.
Internal controls around the payroll processes were ineffective due to an aggregation of deficiencies relating to the IT deficiencies described above, ineffectively designed controls over payroll changes, and ineffective review and monitoring controls. We believe that these control deficiencies were a result of an inadequate assessment of risk related to outsourcing payroll processing to a third-party provider, which contributed to the ineffective design of controls intended to validate that manual changes to payroll inputs were appropriate.

The control deficiencies did not result in any identified misstatements.
As further described in “Item 9A. Controls and Procedures,” we and GCI Holdings have taken the necessary steps to remediate the material weakness, subsequent to the assessment date. However, as the reliability of the internal control process requires repeatable execution, the successful on-going remediation of these material weaknesses will require on-going training, monitoring and evidence of effectiveness prior to concluding that the controls are effective. Therefore, we cannot assure you that the remediation efforts will remain effective in the future or that additional or similar material weaknesses will not develop or be identified.
Implementing any further changes to GCI Holdings’ internal controls may distract its officers and employees and entail material costs to implement new processes and/or modify its existing processes. Moreover, these changes do not manufacture devices or other equipment sold by us, and we depend on our suppliers to provide defect-free and safe equipment. Suppliers are required by applicable law to manufacture their devices to meet certain governmentally imposed safety criteria. However, even if the devices we sell meet the regulatory safety criteria, we could be held liable with the equipment manufacturers and suppliers for any harm caused by products we sell if such products are later found to have design or manufacturing defects. We cannot guarantee that we will be fully protected against all losses associated witheffective in maintaining the adequacy of GCI Holdings’ internal controls, and any failure to maintain that adequacy, or consequent inability to produce accurate financial statements on a product that is found to be defective.timely basis, could harm our business.

Portable communications devicesWe have been alleged to pose health risks, including cancer, due to radio frequency emissions from these devices. ��Purported class actionsnot voluntarily implemented various corporate governance measures, in the absence of which you may have more limited protections against interested transactions, conflicts of interest and other lawsuits have been filed from time to time against other wireless companies seeking not only damages but also remedies that could increase the cost of doing business.  We cannot be sure of the outcome of any such cases or that the industry will not be adversely affected by litigation of this nature or public perception about health risks.  The actual or perceived risk of mobile communications devices could adversely affect us through a reduction in subscribers.  Further research and studies are ongoing, with no linkage between health risks and mobile phone use established to date by a credible public source.  However, we cannot be sure that additional studies will not demonstrate a link between radio frequency emissions and health concerns.similar matters.

Additionally, there are safety risks associated withFederal legislation, including the useSarbanes-Oxley Act of wireless devices while operating vehicles or equipment. Concerns over any2002, encourages the adoption of various corporate governance measures designed to promote the integrity of corporate management and the securities markets. Some of these risks and the effect of any legislation, rules or regulations thatmeasures have been and may be adopted in response to legal requirements. Others have been adopted by companies in response to the requirements of national securities exchanges on which their securities are listed. Among the corporate governance measures that are required under the rules of national securities exchanges are those that address board of directors' independence and audit committee oversight.

We are a limited liability company under Delaware law and our sole member, GCI Liberty, rather than a board of directors, manages our business. Meaning that we do not have any independent governing body. In addition, we have not adopted corporate governance measures such as the implementation of an audit committee or other independent governing body. It is possible that if we were to appoint a board of directors and include one or more independent directors and adopt some or all of these risks could limitcorporate governance measures, there may be somewhat greater assurances that internal corporate decisions were being made by disinterested directors and that policies had been implemented to define responsible conduct. However, our sole member has the ability to sellmake decisions regarding transactions with related parties and corporate actions that could involve conflicts of interest. In addition, our wireless services.Chief Executive Officer and President, Gregory B. Maffei, is the Chief Executive Officer and President and a director of GCI Liberty. Investors should bear in mind our current lack of independent directors, the positions with GCI Liberty that are held by Mr. Maffei and corporate governance measures in formulating their investment decisions.

The interests of GCI Liberty may not coincide with your interests and GCI Liberty may make decisions with which you may disagree.

Our sole member is GCI Liberty. As a limited liability company under Delaware law that is managed by our member, rather than a board of directors, GCI Liberty controls certain aspects of our management, including the approval of significant transactions such as a change of control. The interests of GCI Liberty may not coincide with our interests or your interests. For example, GCI Liberty's dependence on our cash flow for servicing GCI Liberty's debt and for other purposes, including payments of dividends on GCI Liberty's capital stock, stock repurchases or to fund acquisitions or other operational requirements of GCI Liberty and its subsidiaries is likely to result in our payment of large dividends to GCI Liberty when permitted by law or the terms of our Senior Credit Facility and the indentures governing our outstanding Senior Notes, which may increase our accumulated deficit or require us to borrow under our Senior Credit Facility, increasing our leverage and decreasing our liquidity.



A significant percentage of GCI's voting securities are owned by a small number of shareholders and these shareholders can control shareholder decisions on very important matters.

As of December 31, 2016, GCI's executive officers and directors and their affiliates owned 16% of its combined outstanding Class A and Class B common stock, representing 25% of the combined voting power of that stock.  These shareholders can significantly influence, if not control, our management policy and all fundamental corporate actions, including mergers, substantial acquisitions and dispositions, and election of directors to GCI's Board.

Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments.
Not applicable.
None.

Item 2. Properties
Our
GCI, LLC

In connection with the Transactions, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Liberty Media entered into a facilities sharing agreement with GCI Liberty, pursuant to which GCI Liberty and the Company shares office facilities with Liberty Media located at 12300 Liberty Boulevard, Englewood, Colorado 80112.

GCI Holdings

GCI Holdings' properties do not lend themselves to description by location of principal units.  The majority of ourGCI Holdings' properties are located in Alaska.  

We leaseGCI Holdings leases most of ourits executive, corporate and administrative facilities and business offices. OurGCI Holdings' operating, executive, corporate and administrative properties are in good condition. We consider ourGCI Holdings considers its properties suitable and adequate for ourits present needs and they are being fully utilized.

Our Wireline and Wireless segments haveGCI Holdings' properties that consist primarily of undersea and terrestrial fiber optic cable networks, switching equipment, satellite transponders and earth stations, microwave radio, cable and wire facilities, cable head-end equipment, wireless towers and equipment, coaxial distribution networks, connecting lines (aerial, underground and buried cable), routers, servers, transportation equipment, computer equipment, general office equipment, land, land improvements, landing stations and other buildings.  See Note 5 includednote 2 of the Company's consolidated financial statements found in “PartPart II — Item 8 — Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data”of this report for moreadditional information on ourits properties. Substantial amounts of ourGCI Holdings' properties are located on or in leased real property or facilities.  Substantially all of ourGCI Holdings' properties secure ourthe Senior Credit Facility.  See Note 7 includednote 9 of the Company's consolidated financial statements found in “PartPart II — Item 8 — Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data”of this report for moreadditional information on ourthe Senior Credit Facility.

Item 3. Legal Proceedings
We are
The Company is involved in various lawsuits, billing disputes, legal proceedings, and regulatory matters that have arisen from time to time in the normal course of business.  Management believes there are no proceedings from asserted and unasserted claims which if determined adversely would have a material adverse effect on ourthe Company's financial position, results of operations or liquidity.
 
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

Not Applicable.


Part
PART II

Item 5. Market for the Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

Market InformationThere is no established public trading market for Common Stock
All issued and outstanding sharesour equity securities. There is one holder of GCI, Inc's Class A common stock are held by GCI and are not publicly traded. GCI's Class A and Class B common stock are publicly traded.

Dividends
GCI and GCI, Inc. have never paid cash dividends on GCI's common stock, and we have no present intention of doing so. Payment of cash dividends in the future, if any, will be determined by GCI's Board of Directors in lightrecord of our earnings, financial condition and other relevant considerations.  Our existing debt agreements contain provisions that limit payment of dividends on common stock, other than stock dividends (see Note 7 included in “Part II — Item 8 — Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” for more information).



Stock Transfer Agent and Registrar
Computershare is GCI's stock transfer agent and registrar.equity, GCI Liberty, Inc.

Item 6. Selected Financial Data
The following table presents selected historical information relating to financial condition and results
Omitted under the reduced disclosure format permitted by General Instruction I(2)(a) of operations over the past five years.
 Years Ended December 31,
 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012
(Amounts in thousands)         
Revenues$933,812
 978,534
 910,198
 811,648
 710,181
Income (loss) before income taxes$5,404
 (9,951) 69,273
 42,684
 21,250
Net income (loss)$(1,676) (10,032) 59,244
 31,727
 9,162
Net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interest$(469) 159
 51,687
 22,321
 (511)
Net income (loss) attributable to GCI, Inc. common stockholder$(1,207) (10,191) 7,557
 9,406
 9,673
Total assets1
$2,065,939
 1,966,940
 1,992,761
 1,961,536
 1,479,479
Long-term debt, including current portion and net of unamortized discount and deferred loan fees1
$1,280,132
 1,277,928
 1,027,061
 1,037,462
 866,811
Obligations under capital leases, including current portion$59,647
 68,359
 76,456
 74,605
 80,612
Tower obligation$87,653
 
 
 
 
Total GCI, Inc. stockholder's equity$110,388
 179,097
 167,356
 157,144
 153,272
Dividends declared per common share$
 
 
 
 
1 Total assets and long-term debt, including current portion and net of unamortized discount and deferred loan fees have been recast as if we had adopted Accounting Standards Update 2015-03 as of December 31, 2012. See Note 1 included in "Part II - Item 8 - Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" for additional information on ASU 2015-03.

The Selected Financial Data should be read in conjunction with “Part II — Item 7 — Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”Form 10-K.

Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
In the
The following discussion GCI, Inc. and its directanalysis provides information concerning our results of operations and indirect subsidiaries are referred to as “we,” “us” and “our.”

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations discussesfinancial condition. This discussion should be read in conjunction with our accompanying consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto. Additionally, see note 2 in the accompanying consolidated financial statements for an overview of new accounting standards that the Company has adopted or that it plans to adopt that have had or may have an impact on its financial statements.
Overview

GCI, LLC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of GCI Liberty, Inc. On April 4, 2017, Liberty Interactive Corporation, now known as Qurate Retail, Inc. ("Qurate Retail"), entered into an Agreement and Plan of Reorganization (as amended, the "reorganization agreement"and the transactions contemplated thereby, the "Transactions") with GCI, LLC's parent company, General Communication, Inc. ("GCI"), an Alaska corporation, and Liberty Interactive LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and a direct wholly owned subsidiary of Qurate Retail ("LI LLC"). Pursuant to the reorganization agreement, GCI amended and restated its articles of incorporation (which resulted in GCI being renamed GCI Liberty, Inc. ("GCI Liberty")) and effected a reclassification and auto conversion of its common stock. Following these events, Qurate Retail acquired GCI Liberty on March 9, 2018 through a reorganization in which have been preparedcertain Qurate Retail interests, assets and liabilities attributed to its Ventures Group (following the reattribution by Qurate Retail of certain assets and liabilities from its Ventures Group to its QVC Group) were contributed to GCI Liberty in exchange for a controlling interest in GCI Liberty (the "contribution"). Qurate Retail and LI LLC contributed to GCI Liberty their entire equity interests in Liberty Broadband Corporation ("Liberty Broadband"), Charter Communications, Inc. ("Charter"), and LendingTree, Inc. ("LendingTree"), the Evite, Inc. ("Evite") operating business and other assets and liabilities (collectively, "HoldCo"), in exchange for (a) the issuance to LI LLC of a number of shares of GCI Liberty Class A common stock and a number of shares of GCI Liberty Class B common stock equal to the number of outstanding shares of Qurate Retail's Series A Liberty Ventures common stock and Qurate Retail's Series B Liberty Ventures common stock on March 9, 2018, respectively, (b) cash and (c) the assumption of certain liabilities by GCI Liberty.

The contribution was treated as a reverse acquisition under the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”("GAAP"). The preparationFor accounting purposes, HoldCo is considered to have acquired GCI, LLC's parent company, GCI Liberty, in the contribution based, among other considerations, upon the fact that in exchange for the contribution of these financial statements requires usHoldCo, Qurate Retail received a controlling interest in the combined company of GCI Liberty.

Following the contribution and acquisition of GCI Liberty, Qurate Retail effected a tax free separation of its controlling interest in the combined company, GCI Liberty, to make estimatesthe holders of Qurate Retail's Liberty Ventures common stock in full redemption of all outstanding shares of such stock (the "HoldCo Split-Off"), in which each outstanding share of Qurate Retail's Series A Liberty Ventures common stock was redeemed for one share of GCI Liberty Class A common stock and assumptions that affecteach outstanding share of Qurate Retail's Series B Liberty Ventures common stock was redeemed for one share of GCI Liberty Class B common stock. In July 2018, the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the dateInternal Revenue Service ("IRS") completed its review of the financial statementsHoldCo Split-Off and informed Qurate Retail that it agreed with the reported amountsnontaxable characterization of revenuesthe transactions. Qurate Retail received an Issue Resolution Agreement from the IRS documenting this conclusion.

On May 10, 2018, pursuant to the Agreement and expenses duringPlan of Merger, dated as of March 22, 2018, GCI Liberty completed its reincorporation into Delaware by merging with its wholly owned Delaware subsidiary, which was the reporting period. Onsurviving corporation (the “Reincorporation Merger”). References to GCI Liberty prior to May 10, 2018 refer to GCI Liberty, Inc., an on-going basis, we evaluate our estimatesAlaska corporation and judgments, including those described in Note 1 in the "Notesreferences to Consolidated Financial Statements" included in Part IV of of this annual report on Form 10-K. We base our estimates and judgments on historical experience and on various other factors that are believedGCI Liberty after May 10, 2018 refer to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. See also our “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements.”GCI Liberty, Inc., a Delaware corporation.



We refer to the combination of GCI Inc. was incorporated under the laws of the State of Alaska in 1997 to affect the issuance of Senior Notes. Holdings, LLC ("GCI Inc.Holdings"), a wholly ownedan indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of GCI, received through its initial capitalization all ownershipLLC, non controlling interests in subsidiaries previously held by GCI. Shares of GCI’s Class A common stock are traded onLiberty Broadband, Charter and LendingTree, a controlling interest in Evite, and certain other assets and liabilities as the Nasdaq National Market tier"Company", "us", "we"and "our." Although HoldCo was reported as a combined company until the date of the Nasdaq Stock Market underHoldCo Split-Off, the symbol of GNCMA. Shares of GCI’s Class B common stock are traded on the OTCQX market. Shares of GCI, Inc.’s common stock are wholly owned by GCI and are not publicly traded. The GCI and GCI, Inc. consolidated financial statements include substantially the same account activity.

Emerging Growth Company
We qualify as an “emerging growth company” under the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act (the “JOBS
Act”) enacted on April 5, 2012. As a result, we are permitted to rely on exemptions from certain disclosure requirements that are applicable to companies that are not emerging growth companies.

In addition, Section 107 of the JOBS Act also provides that an emerging growth company can take advantage of the extended transition period provided in Section 7(a)(2)(B) of the Securities Act for complying with new or revised accounting standards. In other words, an emerging growth company can delay the adoption of certain accounting standards until those standards would otherwise apply to private companies. However, we are choosing to “opt out” of such extended transition period, and as a result, we will comply with new or revised accounting standards on the relevant dates on which adoption of such standards is required for non-emerging growth companies. Section 107 of the JOBS Act provides that our decision to opt out of the extended transition period for complying with new or revised accounting standards is irrevocable.

The following discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations should be read inconjunction with our consolidatedaccompanying financial statements and supplementary datathe following discussion present all periods as presented in Part IV of this Form 10-K.consolidated by the Company.

Customer Billing Systems

On August 4, 2018, GCI Holdings transferred its customer billing systems for business and consumer voice, data, video, and wireless services to a new third-party billing system to better meet its needs. The new billing system has many benefits including a single invoice for customers, meaningful efficiencies for processing transactions, and the ability to accelerate the introduction of new products and promotions.

Update on Economic Conditions
We offer
GCI Holdings offers wireless and wireline telecommunication services, data services, video services, and managed services to customers primarily throughout Alaska. Because of this geographic concentration, growth of ourGCI Holdings' business and operations depends upon economic conditions in Alaska. The economy of Alaska is dependent upon the oil industry, state government spending, United States military spending, investment earnings and tourism. Prolonged periods of low oil prices will adversely impactimpacts the Alaska economy, which in turn couldcan have an adverse impact on the demand for ourGCI Holdings' products and services and on ourits results of operations and financial condition.

OilLow oil prices have continued to remain low which has put significant pressure on the Alaska state government budget since the majority of its revenues comerevenue comes from the oil industry. While the Alaska state government has significant reserves that we believeGCI Holdings believes will help fund the state government for the next couple of years, major structural budgetary reforms will need to be implemented in order to offset the impact of declininglow oil prices. The State of Alaska failed to pass a workable long-term fiscal plan during the 2016 legislative session. As a result, we plan to reduce our 2017 Alaska capital expenditure budget by 20% to 25% of the 2016 target of $210.0 million due substantially to the continued uncertainty of the ability of the State of Alaska to adopt and implement a workable long-term fiscal plan.

The Alaska economy is officially in a recession. If the recession continues, it could negatively affect our business including our financial position, results of operations, or liquidity, as well as our ability to service debt, pay other obligations and enhance shareholder returns.that started in late 2015. While it is difficult for usGCI Holdings to predict the future impact of the continuing recession on ourits business, these conditions have had an adverse impact on its business and could continue to adversely affect the affordability of and demand for some of ourits products and services and could cause customers to shift to lower priced products and services or to delay or forgo purchases of ourits products and services. One or more of these circumstances could cause our revenue to decline.  Also, ourAdditionally, GCI Holdings' customers may not be able to obtain adequate access to credit, which could affect their ability to make timely payments to us.GCI Holdings. If that were to occur, weGCI Holdings could be required to increase ourits allowance for doubtful accounts, and the number of days outstanding for ourits accounts receivable could increase. If the recession continues, it could continue to negatively affect GCI Holdings' business including its financial position, results of operations, or liquidity, as well as its ability to service debt and pay other obligations.

General OverviewRural Health Care (“RHC”) Program
Through our focus
GCI Holdings receives support from various Universal Service Fund ("USF") programs including the RHC Program. The USF programs are subject to change by regulatory actions taken by the Federal Communications Commission ("FCC") or legislative actions. The following paragraphs describe certain separate matters related to the RHC Program that impact or could impact the revenue earned by the Company.

In November 2017, the Universal Service Administrative Company ("USAC") requested further information in support of the rural rates charged to a number of GCI Holdings' RHC customers in connection with the funding requests for the year that runs July 1, 2017 through June 30, 2018. On October 10, 2018, GCI Holdings received a letter from the FCC's Wireline Competition Bureau (“Bureau”) notifying it of the Bureau’s decision to reduce the rural rates charged to RHC customers for the funding year that ended on long-term results, acquisitions,June 30, 2018 by approximately 26% resulting in a reduction of total support payments of $27.8 million. The FCC also informed GCI Holdings that the same cost methodology used for the funding year that ended on June 30, 2018 would be applied to rates charged to RHC customers in subsequent funding years. In response to the letter from the Bureau, GCI Holdings filed an Application for Review of the Bureau’s decision with the FCC. In the third quarter of 2018, GCI Holdings recorded a $19.1 million reduction in its receivables balance as part of its acquisition accounting and strategic capital investments, we strive to consistently grow our Adjusted EBITDA, as definedrecorded a reduction in Note 11revenue in the "Notescurrent period for the funding year that ended on June 30, 2018 of approximately $8.6 million. GCI Holdings expects to Consolidated Financial Statements" included in Part IV of this annual reportreduce future RHC program revenue by a similar rate as to the funding year that ended on Form 10-K.  We have historically met our cash needs for operations, regular capital expenditures and maintenance capital expenditures through our cash flows from operating activities.  Historically, cash requirements for significant acquisitions and major capital expenditures have been provided largely through our financing activities.June 30, 2018, which based on a current run rate would approximate $7 million per quarter until it can reach a final resolution with the FCC regarding the funding amounts.



Major Developments
InOn March 15, 2018, USAC announced that the third quarter of 2016, we received $90.8 millionfunding requests for the initial closing to sellyear that runs July 1, 2017 through June 30, 2018 exceeded the majority of our urban wireless rooftop and tower sites to Vertical Bridge ("Tower Transaction"). Additionally, we entered into a Master Lease Agreement with Vertical Bridge to lease collocation spacefunding available for the RHC Program. Since that time, on communications towers and facilities that were sold to Vertical Bridge.

In December 2012,June 25, 2018, the FCC createdissued an order resulting in an increase of the Healthcare Connect Fundannual RHC Program funding cap from $400 million to supplement$571 million and applied it to the existing Telecommunications Program offunding year that ended on June 30, 2018. The FCC also determined that it would annually adjust the RHC Program offunding cap for inflation, beginning with the USF.  Healthcare providers can choosefunding year ending on June 30, 2019 and carry-forward unused funds from past funding years for use in future funding years. As a result, aggregate funding was available to participatepay in full the approved funding under the existing Telecommunications Program and/or the new Healthcare Connect Fund.  In January 2017, USAC announced that current projectionsRHC program for the funding year endingended on June 30, 2017 show that the total dollar value of all qualifying funding requests will for the first time either meet or exceed the program’s $400 million annual cap. We cannot predict the impact of this change at this time.2018.

In August 2016,addition, on March 23, 2018, GCI Holdings received a separate letter of inquiry and request for information from the Enforcement Bureau of the FCC, publishedto which it is in the Alaska High Cost Orderprocess of responding. This inquiry into the rates charged by GCI Holdings is still pending, and presently it is unable to assess the ultimate resolution of this matter. The ongoing uncertainty in program funding could have an adverse effect on its business, financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

On November 30, 2018, GCI Holdings received multiple funding denial notices from USAC, denying requested funding from the RHC Program operated by a rural health customer (the “Customer”) for the funding year that ended on June 30, 2018. At the rates approved by the Bureau in a letter received on October 10, 2018, the funding at issue under the denials is approximately $13 million. In November 2017, USAC requested information from the Customer related to bidding process documentation for two separate service contracts GCI Holdings has with the Customer. Although the Customer timely responded, USAC found that bids previously received were not submitted with the original funding request and/or that bidding information submitted was related to the wrong bidding year. The Customer filed an appeal with USAC on January 29, 2019. At this time, GCI Holdings has no reason to believe that there was any violation of the FCC’s competitive bidding rules, but without further information from the Customer and/or USAC, it cannot assess whether the USAC denials will be overturned. If the denial notices are upheld for reasons relating to the Customer’s competitive bidding process, funding issued under one or both contracts for prior years could be subject to further review, as well as funding for services already being delivered or to be delivered for the period from July 1, 2018 through June 30, 2019. GCI Holdings has accounts receivable of approximately $18 million outstanding as of December 31, 2018 associated with these two service contracts. The outstanding accounts receivable includes the approximate $13 million of funding at issue as discussed above and additional amounts for services provided for the period from July 1, 2018 through December 31, 2018. Given the uncertainty of whether the USAC denials will be overturned, it is reasonably possible that GCI Holdings may incur a loss. The amount of a potential loss could range from zero to the full amount of the accounts receivable balance as of December 31, 2018. No amount within this range of a potential loss is a better estimate than any other amount. Accordingly, no loss was recorded as of December 31, 2018 given the minimum amount in the range is zero.

In addition, on December 4, 2018, the FCC issued a public notice seeking further comment on an earlier proposal to determine the rural rates for services supported by the RHC Program in a different manner than it does today. GCI Holdings and others submitted comments on January 30, 2019, but GCI Holdings cannot assess at this time the substance, impact on funding, or timing of any future rule changes that may be adopted by the FCC.

Results of Operations - Consolidated

General.     We provide in the tables below information regarding our consolidated operating results and other income and expenses, 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 wasdo not qualify as a significant program change that requiredseparate reportable segment. For a reassessmentmore detailed discussion and analysis of the financial results of our high cost supportprincipal reportable segment see "Results of Operations-GCI Holdings" below.



Operating Results
 Years ended December 31,
 2018 2017 2016
 amounts in thousands
Revenue     
GCI Holdings$715,842
 
 
Corporate and other23,920
 23,817
 22,552
Consolidated$739,762
 23,817
 22,552
      
Operating Income (Loss)     
GCI Holdings$(220,590) 
 
Corporate and other(35,787) (55,597) (35,155)
Consolidated$(256,377) (55,597) (35,155)
      
Adjusted OIBDA     
GCI Holdings$217,832
 
 
Corporate and other(19,461) (25,762) (16,063)
Consolidated$198,371
 (25,762) (16,063)

Revenue. Our consolidated revenue recognition. See Note 1 in "Part I - Item 1 - Condensed Notesincreased $715.9 million and $1.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively, as compared to Interim Consolidated Financial Statements" for additional information. Asthe corresponding prior year periods. The increase during the year ended December 31, 2018 is primarily due to an increase of $715.8 million at GCI Holdings as compared to the prior period as a result of the Alaska High Cost Order, our 2016 high cost support revenue underacquisition of GCI Holdings on March 9, 2018. See “Results of Operations-GCI Holdings, LLC” below for a more complete discussion of the USF program was $2.5results of operations of GCI Holdings.

Operating Income (Loss). Our consolidated operating loss increased $200.8 million less thanand $20.4 million for the $66.2 million of high cost support revenue recognized in 2015. Additionally, we expect high cost support revenue under the USF program to be less than the 2015 level by approximately $5.0 million in each of 2017 andyears ended December 31, 2018 and $14.8 million annually from 2019 through 2026,2017, respectively, as compared to the datecorresponding prior year periods. The decrease in operating income for 2018 is primarily due to the Alaska High Cost Order ends.acquisition of GCI Holdings on March 9, 2018 and its subsequent impairment of intangibles and long-lived assets (see note 8 in the accompanying consolidated financial statements for more information) and associated depreciation and amortization as a result of purchase accounting. See “Results of Operations-GCI Holdings, LLC” below for a more complete discussion of the results of operations of GCI Holdings.

In February 2015, we purchased ACS' interest in The Alaska Wireless Network, LLC ("AWN")Operating losses for corporate and substantially allother decreased $19.8 million and increased $20.4 million for the assets of ACSyears ended December 31, 2018 and its affiliates related to ACS’s wireless operations (“Acquired ACS Assets”) (collectively the "Wireless Acquisition"). Under the terms of the agreement, we transfered to ACS a cash payment of $293.2 million excluding working capital adjustments and agreed to terminate or amend certain agreements related2017, respectively, as compared to the use of ACS network assets that were includedcorresponding prior year periods. The decrease in 2018 is due to a decrease in costs associated with the Transactions partially offset by an increase in costs as part of the original transaction that closed in July 2013. The Acquired ACS Assets include substantially all of ACS’s wireless subscriber assets, including subscriber contracts, and certain of ACS’s CDMA network assets, including fiber strands and associated cell site electronics and microwave facilities and associated electronics. We assumed from ACS post-closing liabilities of ACS and its affiliates under contracts assumed by us and liabilities with respect to the ownership by ACS of its equity interest in AWN to the extent accruing and related to the period after closing. All other liabilities were retained by ACS and its affiliates. Following the close of the Wireless Acquisition, AWN is a wholly owned subsidiary increased investment in its business and we are entitledincreased public company costs. The increase in 2017 is primarily due to 100%costs related to the Transactions.

Stock-based compensation. Stock based compensation includes compensation related to restricted shares of GCI Liberty's common stock and preferred stock, restricted stock units with respect to GCI Liberty's common stock, and options to purchase shares of GCI Liberty's common stock granted to certain of the future cash flows from AWN.Company's directors, employees, and employees of its subsidiaries. We fundedrecorded $28.2 million, $26.6 million and $16.1 million of stock compensation expense for the purchaseyears ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively. The increase for the year ended December 31, 2018 as compared to the corresponding prior year period is primarily due to the acquisition of GCI Holdings on March 9, 2018 partially offset by a decrease in one-time costs associated with an option exchange between HoldCo and certain of its officers. See “Results of Operations-GCI Holdings, LLC” below for a $275.0more complete discussion of the results of operations of GCI Holdings. The increase for the year ended December 31, 2017 as compared to the corresponding prior year period is primarily due to the option exchange that was discussed above. As of December 31, 2018, the total unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested options and restricted stock was approximately $9.4 million Term Loan B under our Senior Credit Facility and $24.2 million, respectively. Such amounts will be recognized in the Company's consolidated statements of operations over a contribution from GCI.weighted average period of approximately 1.2 years and 2.0 years, respectively.



Results
Adjusted OIBDA. The Company defines Adjusted OIBDA as revenue less cost of Operations
sales, operating expenses, and selling, general and administrative expenses (excluding stock based compensation). The following table sets forth selected financial data as a percentage of total revenues for the periods indicated (underlying data rounded to the nearest thousand):
 Year Ended December 31,
Percentage
Change
1  2016 vs. 2015
Percentage
Change
1  2015 vs. 2014
 201620152014
Statements of Operations Data:     
Revenues:     
Wireless segment22%27%30%(22)%(1)%
Wireline segment78%73%70%2%11%
Total revenues100%100%100%(5)%8%
Selling, general and administrative expenses38%35%32%6%15%
Depreciation and amortization expense21%19%19%7%7%
Software impairment charge—%3%—%(100)%100%
Operating income8%11%16%(26)%(26)%
Other expense, net8%12%8%(37)%56%
Income (loss) before income taxes1%(1)%8%154%(114)%
Net income (loss)—%(1)%7%83%(117)%
Net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests—%—%6%(395)%(100)%
Net income (loss) attributable to GCI, Inc.—%(1)%1%88%(235)%
Percentage change in underlying data
     

We evaluate performance and allocate resources based on Adjusted EBITDA, which is defined as earnings plus imputed interest on financed devices before:
Net interest expense,
Income taxes,
Depreciation and amortization expense,
Loss on extinguishment of debt,
Software impairment charge,
Share-based compensation expense,
Accretion expense,
Loss attributable to non-controlling interest resulting from NMTC transactions,
Gains and impairment losses on equity and cost method investments,
Gain recorded for adjusting to fair value assets that were included as consideration paid to acquire a fiber
system, and
Other non-cash adjustments.

ManagementCompany believes that this measure is useful to investors and other users of our financial information in understanding and evaluating operating performance as an analyticalimportant indicator of income generatedthe operational strength and performance of its businesses, including each business’s ability to service debt and fund capital expenditures. In addition, multiplesthis measure allows management, including the chief operating decision maker, to view operating results and perform analytical comparisons and benchmarking between businesses and identify strategies to improve performance. This measure of current or projected Adjusted EBITDA are used to estimate current or prospective enterprise value.  

Overview of Revenues and Cost of Goods Sold
Total revenue, cost of goods sold (exclusive ofperformance excludes depreciation and amortization, expense)("Cost of Goods Sold"),stock based compensation, separately reported litigation settlements and Adjusted EBITDA for 2016, 2015,restructuring and 2014impairment charges that are as follows (amounts in thousands):


 Year Ended December 31,Percentage
Change  2016 vs. 2015
Percentage
Change  2015 vs. 2014
 2016 2015 2014
Revenue933,812
 978,534
 910,198
(5)%8%
Cost of Goods Sold302,578
 322,338
 302,704
(6)%6%
Adjusted EBITDA288,044
 330,351
 323,116
(13)%2%

See the discussion below for more information by segment. See Note 11included in the "Notesmeasurement of operating income pursuant to Consolidated Financial Statements" includedGAAP. Accordingly, Adjusted OIBDA should be considered in Part IVaddition to, but not as a substitute for, operating income, net income, cash flow provided by operating activities and other measures of this annual report on Form 10-Kfinancial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. See note 15 in the accompanying consolidated financial statements for a reconciliation of consolidated Adjusted EBITDA, a non-GAAP financial measure,OIBDA to consolidatedoperating income (loss) and earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes.

Wireless Segment Overview
The Wireless segment was impacted byConsolidated Adjusted OIBDA increased $224.1 million and decreased $9.7 million during the Wireless Acquisition discussed above in the General Overview section. During 2014years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively, as compared to the close of the Wireless Acquisition on February 2, 2015, AWN provided wholesale services to GCI and ACS and roaming services to other wireless carriers. During that time, AWN received a portion of revenue from GCI and ACS' retail wireless customers. Additionally, AWN paid an incentive to GCI and ACScorresponding prior year periods. The increase for the sale of wireless handsets to their respective retail customers. Following the close of the Wireless Acquisition, the Wireless segment continues to provide roaming services to other wireless carriers and provides wholesale services to the Wireline segment for which it receives a portion of revenue from wireless retail customers. Additionally, the Wireless segment started recording a portion of the wireless equipment costs to encourage the Wireline segment to transition customers from our CDMA network to our GSM network.

Wireless segment revenue, Cost of Goods Sold, and Adjusted EBITDA are as follows (amounts in thousands):
 201620152014Percentage
Change  2016 vs. 2015
Percentage
Change  2015 vs. 2014
Revenue$208,109
267,676
269,977
(22)%(1)%
Cost of Goods Sold$62,487
70,899
90,920
(12)%(22)%
Adjusted EBITDA$129,435
179,199
158,159
(28)%13 %

See Note 11 in the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" included in Part IV of this annual report on Form 10-K for a reconciliation of consolidated Adjusted EBITDA, a non-GAAP financial measure, to consolidated income (loss) before income taxes.

Wireless Segment Revenues
The decrease in revenue for 2016year ended December 31, 2018 is primarily due to the following:
A $53.2 million or 48% decrease in roaming revenue due to long-term roaming agreements we have entered into with our largest roaming partners (please see "Liquidity and Capital Resources" below for additional discussion of the long-term roaming agreements), and
a $15.9 million or 19% decrease in plan fee revenue primarily due to a decrease in subscribers and discounts given to customers who finance or bring their own device.

The decrease in revenue for 2015 is primarily due to a $26.2 million or 24% decrease in plan fee revenue due to our transition to a fixed percentage allocation of plan fee revenue from the Wireline segment following the February 2, 2015 close of the Wireless Acquisition. The decrease is partially offset by the following:
A $14.2 million or 15% increase in roaming revenue primarily due to increased traffic from our roaming partners, and
A $8.6 million or 95% decrease in the contra-revenue wireless handset cash incentives to ACS for the sale of wireless handsets to their retail customers prior to the February 2, 2015 close of the Wireless Acquisition.

Wireless Segment Cost of Goods Sold
The decrease in Cost of Goods Sold for 2016 and 2015 is primarily due to the following:
A $9.8 million or 55% and $10.1 million or 36% decrease in roaming costs for 2016 and 2015, respectively, primarily due to renegotiated roaming agreements and better management of our roaming customers,


A $7.7 million or 100% and $9.6 million or 55% decrease in wireless equipment costs for 2016 and 2015, respectively. The Wireless segment gave a wireless equipment subsidy to the Wireline segment in accordance with the AWN agreements in 2014. This subsidy was discontinued following the February 2, 2015 close of of the Wireless Acquisition, but the Wireless segment started recording a portion of the wireless equipment costs to encourage the Wireline segment to transition customers from our CDMA network to our GSM network which partially offset the decrease. The Wireless segment did not incur any wireless equipment costs in 2016 as all such costs were recorded in the Wireline segment in 2016, and
A $4.8 million or 23% decrease in distribution and capacity costs for 2015 primarily because we were able to extend an agreement with a vendor which resulted in the resolution of certain issues and the release of the related reserve and a reduction in capacity costs and costs to terminate long distance traffic. The decrease for 2016 was partially offset by the absence of the reserve that was released in 2015.

The decrease in Cost of Goods Sold for 2016 and 2015 is partially offset by the following:
A $4.5 million or 100.0% increase in non-cash wireless spectrum leasing costs in 2016 due to a non-cash exchange with a wireless carrier, and
A $4.2 million or 17% increase in network maintenance costs in 2015 primarily due to the the expansion of our network and an increase in the utility and operating costs.

We primarily control our roaming costs through multi-year contracts with our roaming partners that allow our retail wireless customers to roam on their networks.

Wireless Segment Adjusted EBITDA
The decrease in Adjusted EBITDA in 2016 is primarily due to decreased revenue as described above in “Wireless Segment Revenues.” These decreases were partially offset by decreased Cost of Goods Sold as described above in "Wireless Segment Cost of Goods Sold" and a decrease in selling, general and administrative expense.
The increase in Adjusted EBITDA in 2015 is primarily due to decreases in Cost of Goods Sold as described above in "Wireless Segment Cost of Goods Sold" and selling, general and administrative expense partially offset by a decrease in revenue as described above in “Wireless Segment Revenues.”

Wireline Segment Overview
Please see "Part I - Item 1. Business - Description of our Business by Reportable Segment - Overview" for a description of our Wireline segment services and products by major customer group.

The components of Wireline segment revenue are as follows (amounts in thousands):
 201620152014Percentage
Change  2016 vs. 2015
Percentage
Change  2015 vs. 2014
Consumer     
Wireless$66,225
75,799
30,998
(13)%145 %
Data140,196
130,213
113,306
8 %15 %
Video107,305
115,074
111,175
(7)%4 %
Voice26,734
30,110
32,535
(11)%(7)%
Business Services     
Wireless8,822
8,097
2,749
9 %195 %
Data296,202
269,472
249,949
10 %8 %
Video20,102
18,819
33,259
7 %(43)%
Voice60,117
63,274
66,250
(5)%(4)%
Total Wireline segment revenue$725,703
710,858
640,221
2 %11 %

Wireline segment Cost of Goods Sold and Adjusted EBITDA are as follows (amounts in thousands):


 201620152014Percentage
Change  2016 vs. 2015
Percentage
Change  2015 vs. 2014
Wireline segment Cost of Goods Sold$240,091
251,439
211,784
(5)%19 %
Wireline segment Adjusted EBITDA$158,609
151,152
164,957
5 %(8)%

See Note 11 in the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" included in Part IV of this annual report on Form 10-K for a reconciliation of consolidated Adjusted EBITDA, a non-GAAP financial measure, to consolidated income (loss) before income taxes.

Selected key performance indicators for our Wireline segment follow:
 201620152014Percentage
Change  2016 vs. 2015
Percentage
Change  2015 vs. 2014
Consumer     
Data:     
Cable modem subscribers1
127,600
127,300
119,100
 %7 %
Video:    
 
Basic subscribers
107,700
114,000
116,400
(6)%(2)%
Digital programming tier subscribers
52,000
59,500
63,800
(13)%(7)%
HD/DVR converter boxes
115,900
114,000
108,400
2 %5 %
Homes passed250,800
251,900
248,200
 %1 %
Video ARPU
$80.87
$83.95
$79.29
(4)%6 %
Voice:    
 
Total local access lines in service
48,600
50,400
54,600
(4)%(8)%
Business Services    
 
Data:    
 
Cable modem subscribers
13,200
12,700
14,100
4 %(10)%
Voice:    
 
Total local access lines in service
45,900
46,600
47,400
(2)%(2)%
Combined Consumer and Business Services    
 
Wireless    
 
Consumer Lifeline wireless lines in service7
27,200
28,100
25,000
(3)%12 %
Consumer prepaid wireless lines in service8
28,500
23,800
10,600
20 %125 %
Consumer postpaid wireless lines in service9
139,200
146,300
95,800
(5)%53 %
Business Services postpaid wireless lines in service9
27,600
29,600
18,200
(7)%63 %
Total wireless lines in service222,500
227,800
149,600
(2)%52 %
Wireless ARPU10
$38.41
$45.82
$49.97
(16)%(8)%
Cable modem ARPU11
$88.37
$85.03
$78.87
4 %8 %
A cable modem subscriber is defined by the purchase of cable modem service regardless of the level of service purchased. If one entity purchases multiple cable modem service access points, each access point is counted as a subscriber.
A basic subscriber is defined as one basic tier of service delivered to an address or separate subunits thereof regardless of the number of outlets purchased.
A digital programming tier subscriber is defined as one digital programming tier of service delivered to an address or separate subunits thereof regardless of the number of outlets or digital programming tiers purchased. Digital programming tier subscribers are a subset of basic subscribers.


A high-definition/digital video recorder ("HD/DVR") converter box is defined as one box rented by a digital programming or basic tier subscriber. A digital programming or basic tier subscriber is not required to rent an HD/DVR converter box to receive service.
Applicable average monthly video revenues divided by the average number of basic subscribers at the beginning and end of each month in 2016, 2015, and 2014.
A local access line in service is defined as a revenue generating circuit or channel connecting a customer to the public switched telephone network.
A Lifeline wireless line in service is defined as a revenue generating wireless device that is eligible for Lifeline support. The Universal Service Fund's Lifeline program is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company and is designed to ensure that quality telecommunications services are available to low-income customers at affordable rates.
8A prepaid wireless line in service is defined as a revenue generating wireless device where service is purchased in advance of use. The purchased credit is used to pay for wireless services at the point the service is accessed or consumed.
A postpaid wireless line in service is defined as a revenue generating wireless device where service is provided by a prior arrangement with a subscriber and the subscriber is billed after the fact according to their use of wireless services at the end of each month.
10 Average monthly wireless revenues, excluding those from common carrier customers, divided by the average of wireless subscribers at the beginning and end of each month in 2016 and 2014. Average monthly wireless revenues, excluding those from common carrier customers, divided by the number of wireless subscribers at the end of each month for each of the months in 2015. This calculation includes applicable revenue from the Wireline segment - Consumer - Wireless and Wireline segment - Business Services - Wireless and wholesale wireless revenues earned from GCI retail subscribers included in the Wireless segment.
11 Applicable average monthly cable modem revenues divided by the average number of subscribers at the beginning and end of each month in 2016, 2015, and 2014.

Wireline Segment Revenues

Consumer
The items contributing to the decrease in wireless revenue for 2016 include:
A $5.3 million or 31% decrease in plan fee revenue primarily due to a decrease in the number of postpaid subscribers and discounts given to customers who finance or bring their own device partially offset by an increase in revenue from prepaid subscribers, and
A $2.4 million or 7% decrease in equipment sales revenue due to a decrease in the number of wireless devices sold. The decrease in equipment sales revenue was partially offset by a $4.1 million adjustment to lower the guarantee liability for our Upgrade Now program (please see Note 1 in the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" included in Part IV of this annual report on Form 10-K for additional information on the guarantee liability) that was recorded in the third quarter of 2016. Based on a review of historical information, we determined that our customers were not trading their devices in as early and frequently as originally estimated. Additionally, we found that we were able to resell the used handsets for prices higher than originally estimated. Based on this new information, we determined that it was appropriate to reduce the guarantee liability recorded for financed devices in our Upgrade Now program.

The items contributing to the increase in wireless revenue for 2015 include:
A $14.7 million or 548% increase in plan fee revenue primarily due to the acquisition of ACS' wireless subscribers following the February 2, 2015 closeGCI Holdings on March 9, 2018. See “Results of Operations-GCI Holdings, LLC” below for a more complete discussion of the Wireless Acquisition.results of operations of GCI Holdings. The increase was off-set by decreasing plan fee revenue due to discounts given to customers who finance or bring their own device, and
A $27.2 million or 446% increase in equipment sales revenue due to an increase in the number of financed devices. In late 2014, we began encouraging our customers to purchase wireless devices through our financing program instead of subsidizing their device purchases. We offer a discount on the monthly plan fee for customers who choose to finance their device rather than buying a subsidized device. The transition from subsidized devices to more financed devices will result in higher revenues when a contract is signed and a decrease in the monthly Wireless ARPU going forward.

The increase in data revenue is primarily due to a $12.8 million or 11% and $20.3 million or 20% increase in cable modem revenue for 2016 and 2015, respectively, due to an increase in the average number of subscribers and our subscribers’ selection of plans that offer higher speeds and higher usage limits in 2016 and 2015.



Consumer video revenue faces challenges as more customers choose to have their video content delivered via the Internet. However, as a major Internet-provider ourselves, this selection may result in additional data service revenue to the extent we grow average Internet revenue per subscriber.

We expect Consumer voice revenue to continue to decrease due to a growing number of customers using wireless service as their primary voice phone service for local and long distance calling.

Business Services
Business Services data revenue is comprised of monthly recurring charges for data services and charges billed on a time and materials basis largely for personnel providing on-site customer support.  This latter category can vary significantly based on project activity. This revenue faces challenges due to the continued decline of oil prices which negatively impacts certain of our customers. Additionally, we face rate compression for data transport and storage services. As discussed above in the General Overview section, USAC announced that current projections for the funding year ending June 30,ended December 31, 2017 show that the total dollar value of all qualifying funding requests will for the first time either meet or exceed the program’s $400 million annual cap. We cannot predict at this time the impact of this change but we do not expect it to have an immediate material adverse impact on our operations.

The increase in data revenue in 2016 and 2015 is primarily due to a $32.4 million or 15% and $20.5 million or 10.3% increase, respectively, in data transport and storage revenue due to new customers and increased purchases by our existing customers partially offset by decreases due to rate compression. The increase in data revenue was partially offset by a $5.3 million or 11% and $1.3 million or 3% decrease in time and materials revenue due to a decrease in special project work for 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Advertising is the primary driver for video revenue, therefore, we can see large variations in revenue due to the election cycle or other major televised events such as the Olympics. The variations may be more extreme in years when there are highly contested political elections or ballot initiatives. The $14.4 million or 43% decrease in video revenue in 2015 is primarily due to a decrease in advertising after the completion of the highly contested political elections in 2014.

Business Services voice revenue continues to face competition and rate compression and to a lesser extent the substitution of wireless devices.

Wireline Segment Cost of Goods Sold
The individually significant items contributing to the 2016 decrease in Wireline segment Cost of Goods Sold include:
A 16% or $7.9 million decrease in wireless device Cost of Goods Sold primarily due to a decrease in the number of handsets sold partially offset by the absence of a wireless equipment subsidy from the Wireless segment as a portion of the wireless equipment costs were recorded in the Wireless segment in 2015,
A 11% or $4.6 million decrease in time and materials Cost of Goods Sold related to the decreased special project work described above in "Wireline Segment Revenues - Business Services", and
A 11% or $3.3 million decrease in voice Cost of Goods Sold primarily due to a decrease in minutes and the movement of more traffic to our own facilities.

The decrease in 2016 is partially offset by a 11% or $4.0 million increase in transport and storage Cost of Goods Sold primarily due to an increase in circuit costs in satellite served locations related to the increased data transport and storage revenue described above in "Wireline Segment Revenues - Business Services."

The individually significant items contributing to the 2015 increase in Wireline segment Cost of Goods Sold include:
A 82% or $22.5 million increase in wireless device Cost of Goods Sold primarily due to an increase in the number of handsets sold and and a change in the allocation between the Wireline and Wireless segments following the February 2, 2015 close of the Wireless Acquisition. The Wireline segment received a wireless equipment subsidy from the Wireless segment in accordance with the AWN agreements during 2014. Following the close of the Wireless Acquisition this subsidy was discontinued except the Wireless segment started recording a portion of the wireless equipment costs to encourage the Wireline segment to transition customers from our CDMA network to our GSM network which partially offset the increase,


A 16% or $4.9 million increase in transport and storage Cost of Goods Sold primarily due to an increase in circuit costs in satellite served locations related to the increased data transport and storage revenue described above in "Wireline Segment Revenues - Business Services", and
A 8% or $5.5 million increase in video Cost of Goods Sold primarily due to increased rates paid to programmers partially offset by a decrease in basic video subscribers.

We expect to face continued increases in programming costs that may require us to drop certain channels or increase the rates paid by our customers that may result in a loss of additional video customers.

Wireline Segment Adjusted EBITDA
The increase in Adjusted EBITDA for 2016 is primarily due to an increase in revenuesexpenses at Corporate and other as described above in "Wireline Segment Revenues" and a decrease in Costresult of Goods Sold as described above in "Wireline Segment Cost of Goods Sold" partially offset by an increase in selling, general and administrative expense. The decrease in Adjusted EBITDA for 2015 is primarily due to an increase in Cost of Goods Sold as described above in "Wireline Segment Cost of Goods Sold" and selling, general and administrative expense partially offset by an increase in revenues as described above in "Wireline Segment Revenues."the Transactions.

Selling, GeneralOther Income and Administrative Expenses
Selling, general and administrative expenses are as follows (amounts in thousands):
 201620152014Percentage
Change  2016 vs. 2015
Percentage
Change  2015 vs. 2014
Selling, general and administrative expenses$358,356
338,379
293,647
6%15%
Expense

Individually significant items contributingComponents of Other income (expense) are presented in the table below.
 Years ended December 31,
 2018 2017 2016
 amounts in thousands
Interest expense     
GCI Holdings$(69,478) 
 
Corporate and other(35,737) 
 
Consolidated$(105,215) 
 
      
Share of earnings (losses) of affiliates, net     
GCI Holdings$(111) 
 
Corporate and other25,883
 7,001
 11,831
Consolidated$25,772
 7,001
 11,831
      
Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on financial instruments, net     
GCI Holdings$
 
 
Corporate and other(758,836) 637,164
 1,309,365
Consolidated$(758,836) 637,164
 1,309,365
      
Other, net     
GCI Holdings$1,376
 
 
Corporate and other(9,476) 2,467
 30,773
Consolidated$(8,100) 2,467
 30,773

Interest Expense. Consolidated interest expense increased $105.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2018 as compared to the increases in selling, general and administrative expenses include:
A $11.5 million and $17.9 million increase in labor and health insurance costs for 2016 and 2015, respectively,
A $4.0 million and $3.3 million increase in software contracts with subscription licenses instead of perpetual licenses for 2016 and 2015, respectively,
A $8.0 million and $3.1 million increase in the use of contract labor for 2016 and 2015, respectively,
A $2.0 million and $2.3 million increase in bad debt expense for 2016 and 2015, respectively,
A $2.4 million increase to support a campaign to encourage public action related to the State of Alaska budget in 2016,
A $15.8 million increase in costs relatedcorresponding prior year period primarily due to the acquisition of ACS' wireless subscribersGCI Holdings on March 9, 2018 and its non-controlling interest in AWN in 2015,
A $2.9 million increase for 2015 due to liquidated damages accrued for a contract,
A $2.5 million increase in share-based compensation expense for 2015 due to an increase in our stock price, and
A $2.3 million increase in inventory adjustments for 2015 primarily due to the write-off of obsolete wireless handsets.$1.0 billion margin loan.

The increases discussed above for 2016 are partially offset by the following items:
The absenceShare of $9.0earnings (losses) of affiliates, net. Share of earnings (losses) of affiliates, net increased $18.8 million for costs related to the acquisition of ACS' wireless subscribers and its non-controlling interest in AWN, and
The absence of $2.9decreased $4.8 million for liquidated damages accrued for a contract in 2015.

As a percentage of total revenues, selling, general and administrative expenses were 38%, 35%, and 32% of revenue for 2016, 2015, and 2014, respectively. The 2016 increase in selling, general and administrative expenses as percentage of total revenues is primarily due to increases in labor and contract labor costs without corresponding increases in revenue due to spending on our billing system conversion. The 2015 increase in selling, general, and administrative expenses as a percentage of total revenues is primarily due to the costs related to the acquisition of ACS' wireless subscribers and its non-controlling interest in AWN.



Depreciation and Amortization Expense
Depreciation and amortization expense follows (amounts in thousands):
 201620152014Percentage
Change  2016 vs. 2015
Percentage
Change  2015 vs. 2014
Depreciation and amortization expense$193,775
181,767
170,285
7%7%

The increases in 2016 and 2015 are primarily due to new assets placed in service in those years partially offset by assets which became fully depreciated during those years.

Software Impairment Charge
Software impairment charge decreased $29.8 million in 2016 primarily due to the absence of an impairment charge recorded in 2015 as discussed below.

During the years ended December 31, 20132018 and 2014, we internally developed computer software to replace our wireless, Internet, video, local service, and long distance customer billing systems. During the first quarter of 2015, we completed a detailed assessment of our progress to date and determined it was no longer probable that the computer software being developed would be completed and placed in service. Our assessment concluded that the cost of continuing the development would be much higher than originally estimated, and the timing and scope risks were substantial. We identified development work, hardware, and software recorded2017, respectively, as Construction in Progress through the first quarter of 2015, that may be applicable to our replacement customer billing solution, future internally developed software, and other system needs and therefore should remain capital assets. We considered the remaining capital expenditures for this billing system to have a fair value of $0 and recorded an impairment charge of $20.7 million during 2015 by recording an expense which is included in Software Impairment Charge in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. We have signed a contract with an established billing solution provider and have begun the multi-year implementation.

During the first quarter of 2015, we reassessed our plans for our internally developed machine-to-machine billing system and decided to no longer market this system to third parties. Accordingly we recognized an impairment of $7.1 million during 2015 by recording an expense which is included in Software Impairment Charge in our Consolidated Statements of Operations.

During the third quarter of 2015, we evaluated user management software we purchased in 2014 and determined that we would not be able to use the software. Accordingly we recognized an impairment of $1.0 million during 2015 by recording an expense which is included in Software Impairment Charge in our Consolidated Statement of Operations.

Other Expense, Net
Other expense, net of other income, follows (amounts in thousands):
 201620152014Percentage
Change  2016 vs. 2015
Percentage
Change  2015 vs. 2014
Other expense, net$73,699
116,162
74,289
(37)%56%

Items contributingcompared to the decreasecorresponding prior year periods. The increase in 2016 include:
A $27.1 million decrease in loss on extinguishment of debt primarily duethe year ended December 31, 2018 as compared to the retirement of our 2019 Notes in 2015 (please see Part II - Item 7 - "Liquidity and Capital Resources" for additional information),
The absence of a $12.6 million impairment charge recorded in 2015 to reflect an other than temporary decline in fair value of an equity investment,
A $3.2 million gain recorded for adjusting to fair value assets that were included in the consideration paid to acquire a fiber system, andcorresponding prior year period is due



Items contributingto increases in LendingTree's results. The decrease in the year ended December 31, 2017 as compared to the increasecorresponding prior year period is due to decreases in 2015 include:LendingTree's results.
A $27.7
Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on financial instruments, net. Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on financial instruments, net are comprised of changes in the fair value of the following:
  Years ended December 31,
  2018 2017 2016
  amounts in thousands
Equity securities $(274,393) 258,629
 547,921
Investment in Liberty Broadband (560,413) 473,342
 761,444
Variable forward 75,970
 (94,807) NA
  $(758,836) 637,164
 1,309,365

The changes in these accounts are primarily due to market factors and changes in the fair value of the underlying stocks or financial instruments to which they are related. The decrease for the year ended December 31, 2018 as compared to the corresponding prior year period was primarily driven by a decrease in the market value of our investments in Liberty Broadband and Charter. The decrease for the year ended December 31, 2017 as compared to the corresponding prior year period was primarily driven by less growth in the market value of our investments in Liberty Broadband and Charter than the prior period.

Income taxes. The Company had an income tax benefit of $184.9 million loss on extinguishmentand $133.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively, and income tax expense of debt$496.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. For the year ended December 31, 2018, the income tax benefit was lower than the U.S. statutory tax rate of 21% primarily due to a change in the effective tax rate used to measure deferred taxes due to the retirement of our 2019 Notesacquisition as discussed in 2015,
A $6.3 million increase in interest expense primarily attributablenotes 1 and 4 to increased borrowing on our Senior Credit Facility,
A $12.6 millionthe accompanying consolidated financial statements and a goodwill impairment charge recorded to reflect an other than temporary decline in fair value of an equity investment,
A $4.7 million gain recorded upon the sale ofthat is not deductible for tax purposes, partially offset by a cost method investment, and
A $2.6 million net loss for adjusting to fair value the assets includedchange in the consideration transferedstate effective tax rate used to measure deferred taxes resulting from a state law change.
For the year ended December 31, 2017, the most significant reconciling item is a net tax benefit for the effect of the change in the Wireless Acquisition and adjustingU.S. federal corporate tax rate from 35% to fair value amendments to certain agreements related to the right to use ACS network assets.

Income Tax Expense
GCI, Inc., as a wholly owned subsidiary and member of the GCI controlled group of corporations, files its income tax return as part of the consolidated group of corporations under GCI. Accordingly, all discussions regarding income taxes reflect the consolidated group's activity. Our income tax expense and21% on deferred income tax assets and liabilities are presented herein using the separate-entity method.

taxes. Income tax expense totaled $7.1was higher than the U.S. statutory tax rate of 35% in 2016 due to state expense related to unrealized gains on the Company’s investments.
Net earnings (loss). The Company had a net loss of $917.5 million $0.1for the year ended December 31, 2018 and net earnings of $724.6 million and $10.0$820.7 million in 2016, 2015, and 2014, respectively. Our effective income tax rate was 131%, (1)%, and 14% in 2016, 2015, and 2014, respectively. Our effective tax rate is impacted byfor the the amount of permanent differences as compared to our net income (loss) before income taxes.

Our 2014 effective tax rate was impacted by the inclusion of income attributable to the non-controlling interest in AWN in income before income taxes and the exclusion of income taxes on income attributable to the non-controlling interest in AWN. We completed the Wireless Acquisition on February 2, 2015, after which ACS no longer has a non-controlling interest in AWN.

Atyears ended December 31, 2017, and 2016, we haverespectively. The change in net earnings was the result of the above-described fluctuations in our revenue, expenses, and other income tax net operating loss carryforwards of $268.0 million that will begin expiring in 2022 if not utilized, and alternative minimum tax credit carryforwards of $1.7 million available to offset regular income taxes payable in future years.expenses.

We have recorded deferred tax assets of $109.6 million associated with income tax net operating losses that were generated from 2002 to 2015 and that expire from 2022 to 2035, respectively, and with charitable contributions that were converted to net operating losses in 2004 through 2009, 2011, and 2012 and that expire in 2024 through 2029, 2031, and 2032, respectively.

Tax benefits associated with recorded deferred tax assets are considered to be more likely than not realizable through future reversals of existing temporary differences and future taxable income exclusive of reversing temporary differences and carryforwards. The amount of deferred tax assets considered realizable, however, could be reduced if estimates of future taxable income during the carryforward period are reduced which would result in additional income tax expense.  We estimate that our effective annual income tax rate for financial statement purposes will be 53% to 58% in the year ending December 31, 2017. The effective tax rate is expected to be much higher due to an increase in the pretax book income amount and the relative impact that the expected tax adjustments have on that pretax income amount.

Liquidity and Capital Resources
Our principal sources
As of current liquidity areDecember 31, 2018, substantially all of our cash and cash equivalents.equivalents were invested in U.S. Treasury securities, other government agencies, AAA rated money market funds and other highly rated financial and corporate debt instruments.

The following are potential sources of liquidity: available cash balances, proceeds from asset sales, monetization of our investments, outstanding or anticipated debt facilities, and debt issuances. To the extent that the Company recognizes any taxable gains from the sale of assets, the Company may incur tax expense and be required to make tax payments, thereby reducing any cash proceeds. As of December 31, 2018, GCI, LLC exceeded the maximum leverage threshold, as measured by the terms of its Senior Notes (as defined below), and therefore does not have access to any additional funding under the revolving portion of the Senior Credit Facility. See note 9 in the accompanying consolidated financial statements for additional information on the Senior Credit Facility. We believe but can provide no assurances, that we will be able to meet our current and long-term liquidity, capital requirements and fixed charges through ourhave sufficient cash flows from operating activities existingand cash on hand to fund our business.

As of December 31, 2018, the Company had a cash and cash equivalents credit facilities, and other external financing and equity sources.  Should operating cash flows be insufficient to support additional borrowings and principal payments scheduled under our existing credit facilities, capital expenditures will likely be reduced, which would likely reduce future revenues.

In the fourth quarterbalance of 2016, we amended our Senior Credit Facility. The amended Senior Credit Facility provides a $215.0 million Term Loan A, a $245.9 million Term Loan B, and a $200.0 million revolving credit facility, with a $50.0 million sub-limit for standby letters of credit. The borrowings under the Term Loan A and revolving credit facility are scheduled to mature on November 17, 2021, and the Term Loan B is scheduled to mature on February 2, 2022; provided that, if the 2021 Senior Notes are not refinanced by December 3, 2020, then all of the loans under the Senior Credit Facility become due on such date. We paid $4.1 million in fees associated with the amendment.$170.7 million.



As discussed above in the General Overview section, in the third quarter of 2016 we received $90.8 million for the Tower Transaction.
 Years ended December 31,
 2018 2017 2016
 amounts in thousands
Cash flow information     
Net cash provided (used) by operating activities$31,015
 304,864
 292,225
Net cash provided (used) by investing activities(32,276) (78,123) (1,504,771)
Net cash provided (used) by financing activities(401,371) (140,720) (300,808)
 $(402,632) 86,021
 (1,513,354)

InDuring the first quarteryear ended December 31, 2018, the Company’s primary uses of 2016, we entered into new long-term roaming and backhaul agreements with our largest roaming partners. The revenue recognized for these contracts was determined by calculating the cumulative minimum cash payments and recognizing the amount evenly over the life of the contracts. In the early years of the contracts, the cash received is in excess of the revenue recognized resulting inincluded a significant increase in long-term deferred revenue; in the later years the cash received will be less than the revenue recognized and will lower long-term deferred revenue.

In the first quarter of 2015, we completed the Wireless Acquisition$1.1 billion distribution to purchase ACS' wireless subscriber base and its one-third ownership interest in AWN for $293.2 million excluding working capital adjustments and the termination or amendment of certain agreements related to the use of ACS network assets that were included as part of the original transaction that closed in July 2013. Following the close of the transaction, AWN is our wholly owned subsidiary and we are entitled to 100% of the future cash flows from AWN. We used proceeds from our Senior Credit Facility and a contribution from GCI to fund the purchase from ACS.

In the second quarter of 2015, we closed on the issuance of $450.0 million of new 6.875% Senior Notes due 2025 ("2025 Notes") at an issue price of 99.105%. The net proceeds of the offering were used to retire our existing 2019 Notes. We paid closing costs totaling $7.9 millionformer parent in connection with the offering, which were recorded as deferredTransactions, $347 million in distributions to GCI Liberty, and $179 million in repayments of debt. The Company’s primary sources of cash included cash from operations, borrowing $1.1 billion under the Company's margin loan costs and will be amortized oversenior credit facility, cash from the termacquisition of the 2025 Notes. We recorded a $27.7GCI Holdings on March 9, 2018 and borrowing $104 million loss on extinguishment of debt during 2015.from GCI Liberty.

While our short-term and long-term financing abilities are believed to be adequate as a supplement to internally generated cash flows to fund capital expenditures and acquisitions as opportunities arise, turmoil in the global financial markets may negatively impact our ability to further access the capital markets in a timely manner and on attractive terms, which may have a negative impact on our ability to grow our business.

We monitor the third-party depository institutions that hold our cash and cash equivalents. Our emphasis is primarily on safety of principal and secondarily on maximizing yield on those funds.

Investing Activities
Net cash used for investing activities consists primarily of cash paid for capital expenditures.expenditures and investments. Our most significant recurring investing activity has been GCI Holdings' capital expenditures and wethe purchase of investments. We expect that this will continue in the future.  A significant portion of our capital expenditures isare based on the level of GCI Holdings' customer growth and the technology being deployed. Purchases of investments are based on what we believe are good opportunities for growth.

Our cash expenditures for property and equipment, including construction in progress, totaled $194.5 million and $176.2 million during 2016 and 2015, respectively.  Depending on available opportunities and the amount of cash flow we generate during 2017, we expect our 2017 capital expenditures to total approximately $165.0 million. This estimate is based on purchases in 2017 regardless of the timing of cash payments.

Financing Activities
Net cash provided by financing activities in 2016 consists primarily of cash receivedProceeds from the Tower Transaction partially offset by repurchases of GCI's stock, payments on our Senior Credit Facility, net of borrowings, and costs paid for the amendment to our Senior Credit Facility. Net cash used for financing activities in 2015 consists primarily of our payment to complete the Wireless Acquisition, costs paid to retire our 2019 Notes, costs paid for the 2025 Notes, and repurchases of GCI's stock partially offset by borrowings on our Senior Credit Facility and a contribution from GCI to fund the Wireless Acquisition. Our borrowings fluctuate from year to year based on our liquidity needs. We may use excess cash to make optional repayments on our debt or repurchase GCI'sof GCI Liberty's common stock depending on various factors, such as market conditions.

Available Borrowings Under Senior Credit Facility
We had a $55.0The projected uses of the Company's cash are capital expenditures of approximately $165 million, approximately $126 million for interest payments on outstanding balancedebt, repurchases of GCI Liberty Series A common stock, and $21.0 millionpotential additional investments in letters of credit under the $200.0 million Senior Credit Facility Revolver at December 31, 2016, which leaves $124.0 million available for borrowing as of December 31, 2016.existing or new businesses.



Debt Covenants
We are subject to covenantsExhibit 99.2 shows the net assets and restrictions applicable to our $325.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 6.75% Senior Notes due 2021 (“2021 Notes”), our 2025 Notes, Senior Credit Facility, and Wells Fargo note payable.  We are in compliance with the covenants, and we believe that neither the covenants nor the restrictions in our indentures or loan documents will limit our ability to operate our business.

Share Repurchases
GCI’s Board of Directors has authorized a common stock buyback program for the repurchasenet earnings of GCI, Class ALLC and Class B common stockits Restricted Subsidiaries under and as defined in order to reduce the outstanding shares of Class A and Class B common stock.  Under this program, GCI is currently authorized to make up to $60.3 million of repurchases as of December 31, 2016.  GCI is authorized to increase its repurchase limit $5.0 million per quarter indefinitely and to use stock option exercise proceeds to repurchase additional shares.  If stock repurchases are less than the total approved quarterly amount the difference may be carried forward and applied against future stock repurchases.  During 2016 we repurchased, on GCI's behalf, 3.5 million shares of GCI common stock under the stock buyback program at a cost of $55.2 million.  The common stock buyback program is expected to continue for an indefinite period dependent on leverage, liquidity, company performance, and market conditions and subject to continued oversight by GCI’s Board of Directors. The open market repurchases have and will continue to comply with the restrictions of Securities Exchange Act of 1934 Rule 10b-18.

Schedule of Certain Known Contractual Obligations
The following table details future projected payments associated with certain known contractual obligations as of December 31, 2016 (amounts in thousands):
 Payments Due by Period
 Total Less Than 1 Year 1 to 3 Years 4 to 5 Years More Than 5 Years
Long-term debt$1,298,783
 3,326
 6,706
 601,779
 686,972
Interest on long-term debt442,155
 70,411
 140,456
 128,025
 103,263
Capital lease obligations, including interest73,531
 13,433
 26,890
 25,503
 7,705
Tower obligations, including interest186,526
 6,996
 14,415
 14,998
 150,117
Operating lease commitments185,503
 46,249
 63,347
 38,844
 37,063
Purchase obligations54,471
 54,471
 
 
 
Total contractual obligations$2,240,969
 194,886
 251,814
 809,149
 985,120

Long-term debt listed in the table above includes principal payments on our 2021 and 2025 Notes, Senior Credit Facility, and the Wells Fargo note payable.  Interest on the amounts outstanding under our Senior Credit Facility and Wells Fargo note payable are based on variable rates.  We used the current rate paid on our Senior Credit Facility to estimate our future interest payments. Our 2021 Notes require semi-annual interest payments of $11.0 million through June 2021 and our 2025 Notes require semi-annual interest payments of $15.5 million through April 2025.  For a discussion of our long-term debt see Note 7 in the accompanying “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.”

Capital lease obligations consist primarily of our obligation to lease transponder capacity on Galaxy 18.  For a discussion of our capital and operating leases, see Note 14 in the accompanying “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.”

Tower obligations consist of our obligation to Vertical Bridge for the Master Lease Agreement that we entered into as part of the Tower Transaction.

Purchase obligations include cancelable open purchase orders for goods and services for capital projects and normal operations, which are not included in our Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2016, because the goods had not been received or the services had not been performed at December 31, 2016.



Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We have not created, and are not party to, any special-purpose and off-balance sheet entities for the purpose of raising capital, incurring debt or operating parts of our business that are not consolidated into our financial statements. We do not have any arrangements or relationships with entities that are not consolidated into our financial statements that are reasonably likely to materially affect our liquidity or the availability of our capital resources.bond indentures.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
See Note 1 included in “Part II — Item 8 — Consolidated Financial StatementsOff-Balance Sheet Arrangements and Supplementary Data” for recently issued accounting pronouncements.Aggregate Contractual Obligations

We have contingent liabilities related to legal and tax proceedings and other matters arising in the ordinary course of business.  Although it is reasonably possible we 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 consolidated financial statements.
Information concerning the amount and timing of required payments, both accrued and off-balance sheet, under our contractual obligations, is summarized below.


 Payments Due by Period
 Total Less Than 1 Year 1 to 3 Years 4 to 5 Years More Than 5 Years
 amounts in thousands
Consolidated contractual obligations         
Debt (1)$2,397,678
 902,934
 1,038,687
 1,124
 454,933
Borrowings from GCI Liberty107,682
 
 107,682
 
 
Interest on long-term debt (2)362,810
 129,968
 129,593
 62,402
 40,847
Capital lease obligations, including interest46,658
 13,450
 25,503
 5,971
 1,734
Tower obligations, including interest182,592
 7,644
 15,750
 16,386
 142,812
Operating lease commitments140,430
 40,487
 56,788
 21,829
 21,326
Purchase obligations51,139
 51,139
 
 
 
Total contractual obligations$3,288,989
 1,145,622
 1,374,003
 107,712
 661,652
          
(1) Amounts are reflected in the table at the outstanding principal amount, assuming the debt instrument will remain outstanding until the stated maturity date, and may differ from the amounts stated in our consolidated balance sheet to the extent debt instruments (i) were issued at a discount or premium or (ii) have elements which are reported at fair value in our consolidated balance sheets. Amounts do not assume additional borrowings or refinancings of existing debt.
(2) Amounts (i) are based on our outstanding debt at December 31, 2018, (ii) assume the interest rates on our variable rate debt remain constant at the December 31, 2018 rates and (iii) assume that our existing debt is repaid at maturity.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Our accounting and reporting policies comply with GAAP.  The preparation of our financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires managementus to make estimates and assumptions.  Ourassumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial positionstatements and resultsthe reported amounts of operations can be affected byrevenue and expenses during the reporting period. Listed below are the accounting estimates that we believe are critical to our financial statements due to the degree of uncertainty regarding the estimates or assumptions involved and the magnitude of the asset, liability, revenue or expense being reported.  All of these accounting estimates and assumptions, which are integralas well as the resulting impact to understanding reported results.  Critical accounting policies are those policies that management believes areour financial statements, have been discussed with the most important to the portrayalaudit committee of our financial conditionboard of directors.

Fair Value of Non-Financial Instruments.    Our non-financial instrument valuations are primarily comprised of our determination of the estimated fair value allocation of net tangible and results,identifiable intangible assets acquired in business combinations, our annual assessment of the recoverability of our goodwill and require managementother nonamortizable intangibles, and our evaluation of the recoverability of our other long-lived assets upon certain triggering events.
The Company periodically reviews the carrying value of its intangible assets with definite lives and other long-lived assets to be used in operations whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets or asset groups might not be recoverable. Factors that would necessitate an impairment assessment include a significant adverse change in the extent or manner in which an asset is used, a significant adverse change in legal factors or the business climate that could affect the value of the asset group, or a significant decline in the observable market value of an asset group, among others. If such facts indicate a potential impairment, the recoverability of the asset group is assessed by determining whether the carrying value of the asset group exceeds the sum of the projected undiscounted cash flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the asset group over the remaining economic life of the asset group. If the carrying amount of the asset group is greater than the expected undiscounted cash flows to be generated by such asset group, including its ultimate disposition, an impairment adjustment is recognized.
If the carrying value of our intangible or long-lived assets exceeds their estimated fair value, we are required to write the carrying value down to fair value. Any such write down is included in impairment expense in our consolidated statement of operations. A high degree of judgment is required to estimate the fair value of our intangible and long-lived assets. We may use quoted market prices, prices for similar assets, present value techniques and other valuation techniques to prepare these estimates. We may need to make estimates that are difficult, subjective or complex.  Most accounting policies are not considered by management to be critical accounting policies.  Several factors are considered in determining whether or not a policy is critical in the preparation of financial statements.  These factors include, among other things, whether the estimates are significant to the financial statements, the nature of the estimates, the ability to readily validate the estimates with other information including third parties or available prices,future cash flows and sensitivity of the estimates to changes in economic conditions and whether alternative accounting methods may be utilized under GAAP.  For all of these policies, management cautions that future events rarely develop exactly as forecast, and the best estimates routinely require adjustment.  Management has discussed the development and the selection of critical accounting policies with GCI's Audit Committee.

Those policies and estimates considered to be critical for the year ended December 31, 2016 are described below.

Allowance for Doubtful Receivables
We record expense to maintain an allowance for doubtful receivabless for estimated losses that result from the failure or inability of our customers to make required payments. When determining the allowance, we consider the probability of recoverability based on past experience, economic data, and changes in our collections processes. Credit risks are assessed based on historical write-offs, net of recoveries,discount rates as well as other assumptions in order to implement these valuation techniques. Due to the high degree of judgment involved in our estimation techniques, any value ultimately derived from our intangible or long-lived assets may differ from our estimate of fair value.
We utilize the cost approach as the primary method used to establish fair value for our property and equipment in connection with business combinations.  The cost approach considers the amount required to replace an analysisasset by constructing or purchasing a new asset with similar utility, then adjusts the value in consideration of physical depreciation and functional and technological obsolescence as of the aged accounts and installment receivable balances with reserves generally increasing as the receivable ages. Accounts receivable may be fully reserved when specific collection issues are known to exist, such as pending bankruptcy or catastrophes.appraisal date. The cost approach relies on management’s assumptions regarding current

Impairment
material and Useful Liveslabor costs required to rebuild and repurchase significant components of Intangible Assetsour property and equipment along with assumptions regarding the age and estimated useful lives of our property and equipment.
We had $526.3 millionThe accounting guidance permits entities to first perform a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is more likely than not that an indefinite-lived intangible asset is impaired. If the qualitative assessment supports that it is more likely than not that the carrying value of the Company's indefinite-lived intangible assets, atother than goodwill, exceeds its fair value, then a quantitative assessment is performed. At December 31, 2016, consisting2018,  the Company determined that it was necessary to perform a quantitative impairment assessment of goodwill of $239.3 million,its cable certificates and wireless licenses. An impairment was recorded in the amount of $191.6$65 million (see note 8 in the accompanying consolidated financial statements).
We utilize an income approach as the primary method used to establish fair value for our customer relationships, cable certificates, and wireless licenses of $92.3 million and broadcast licenses of $3.1 million.  

Goodwill represents the excess of cost over fair value of net assets acquired in connection with a business acquisition. We have determined thatcombinations. The income approach quantifies the expected earnings of our reporting units are the same as our reportable segments. Ourcustomer relationships, cable certificates, represent agreements with government entitiesand wireless licenses by isolating the after tax cash flows attributable to constructthe respective asset and operatethen discounting the cash flows to their present value. The income approach relies on management’s assumptions such as projected revenue, market penetration, expenses, capital expenditures, customer trends, and a video business.  The valuediscount rate applied to the estimated after tax cash flows.
We perform our annual assessment of the recoverability of our cable certificates is derived from the economic benefits we receive from the right to solicit new customers and to market new services.  The amount we have recorded for cable certificates is from cable system acquisitions. Our wireless licenses are from the FCC and give us the right to provide wireless service within a certain geographical area.  The amount we have recorded is from acquisitions of wireless companies and auctions of wireless spectrum.  Our broadcast licenses are from the FCC and give us the right to broadcast television stations within a certain geographical area. The amount we have recorded for broadcast licenses is from broadcast television station acquisitions.

We assess our indefinite-lived intangible assets including goodwill for impairment on an annual basis duringin the fourth quarter using October 31 aseach year. The Company utilizes a measurement date unless circumstances require a more frequent measurement. When evaluating our indefinite-lived intangible assetsqualitative assessment for determining whether the quantitative goodwill impairment we mayanalysis is necessary. The accounting guidance permits entities to first perform an assessment qualitativelyassess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the carrying amount exceeds its fair value, referred to as a “step zero” approach. If, based on the review of the qualitative factors, we determine it is


not more likely than not that the fair value of one of our indefinite-lived intangible assetsa reporting unit is less than its carrying value, we would bypassamount as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform the two-stepquantitative goodwill impairment test. EventsIn evaluating goodwill on a qualitative basis, the Company reviews the business performance of each reporting unit and circumstances we considerevaluates other relevant factors as identified in performing the “step zero” qualitative assessment include macro-economic conditions, market and industry conditions, internal forecasts, share price fluctuations, and operational stability and overall financial performance.

For goodwill, if we conclude thatrelevant accounting guidance to determine whether it is more likely than not that a reporting unit's fair value is less than its carrying amount, we would perform the first step (“step one”) of the two-stepan indicated impairment test and calculate the estimated fair value of the reporting unit by using discounted cash flow valuation models and by comparing our reporting units to guideline publicly-traded companies. These methods require estimates of our future revenues, profits, capital expenditures, working capital, and other relevant factors, as well as selecting appropriate guideline publicly-traded companiesexists for each reporting unit. We estimate these amounts by evaluating historical trends, current budgets, operating plans, industry data, and other relevant factors. Using assumptions that are different from those used in our estimates, but in each case reasonable, could produce significantly different results and materially affect the determination of fair value and/or impairment for our indefinite-lived intangible assets.

For 2016, we performed a step zero qualitative analysis for our annual assessment of impairment for goodwill and our indefinite-lived intangible assets. After evaluating and weighing all relevant events and circumstances, we concluded that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of any of our reporting units. The Company considers whether there are any negative macroeconomic conditions, industry specific conditions, market changes, increased competition, increased costs in doing business, management challenges, legal environments and how these factors might impact company specific performance in future periods. As part of the analysis, the Company also considers fair value determinations for certain reporting units or indefinite-lived intangible assets were less than their carrying amounts. Consequently, we did notthat have been made at various points throughout the current and prior year for other purposes. At December 31, 2018,  the Company determined that it was necessary to perform a step one quantitative analysisgoodwill impairment assessment for the GCI Holdings reporting unit.  An impairment was recorded in 2016. For 2015, we electedthe amount of $147 million (see note 8 in the accompanying consolidated financial statements).  Due to proceed directly tothis impairment, the step one quantitative analysis rather than performcarrying value of the step zero qualitative assessment. There was a substantial excess ofGCI Holdings reporting unit approximates fair value over carrying value for each of our reporting units and indefinite-lived intangible assets and we determined they were not impaired.

Valuation Allowance for Net Operating Loss Deferred Tax Assets
Our income tax policy provides for deferred income taxes to show the effect of temporary differences between the recognition of revenue and expenses for financial and income tax reporting purposes and between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and their reported amounts in the financial statements.  Significant management judgment is required in developing our provision for income taxes, including the determination of deferred tax assets and liabilities and any valuation allowances that may be required against the deferred tax assets.  We have not recorded a valuation allowance on the deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2016, based2018.

The fair value of goodwill is determined using an income approach. The Company’s income approach model used for its goodwill valuation is consistent with that used for the cable certificates except that cash flows from the entire business enterprise are used for the goodwill valuation.

Income Taxes.     We are required to estimate the amount of tax payable or refundable for the current year and the deferred income tax liabilities and assets for the future tax consequences of events that have been reflected in our financial statements or tax returns for each taxing jurisdiction in which we operate. This process requires our management to make judgments regarding the timing and probability of the ultimate tax impact of the various agreements and transactions that we enter into. Based on management’s belief that future reversals of existing temporary differences and estimated future taxable income exclusive of reversing temporary differences and carryforwards will, more likely than not, be sufficient to realize the benefit of these assets over time.  In the event that actual results differ from these estimates or if our historical trends change,judgments we may be requiredrecord tax reserves or adjustments to record a valuation allowanceallowances on deferred tax assets to reflect the expected realizability of future tax benefits. Actual income taxes could vary from these estimates due to future changes in income tax law, significant changes in the jurisdictions in which we operate, our inability to generate sufficient future taxable income or unpredicted results from the final determination of each year's liability by taxing authorities. These changes could have a material adverse effect in our consolidated financial position or results of operations.

Other significant accounting policies, not involving the same level of measurement uncertainties as those discussed above, are nevertheless important to an understanding of the financial statements. A complete discussion of our significant accounting policies can be found in Note 1 in the accompanying “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.”

Regulatory Developments
See “Part I — Item 1. Business — Regulation” for more information about regulatory developments affecting us.

Inflation
We do not believe that inflation has a significant effectimpact on our operations.financial position.

Results of Operations - GCI Holdings, LLC

GCI Holdings provides a full range of wireless, data, video, voice, and managed services to residential, businesses, governmental entities, and educational and medical institutions primarily in Alaska. We have seen a general decrease in subscriber metrics primarily due to the recession in Alaska as discussed in the Overview section. The following table highlights selected key performance indicators used in evaluating GCI Holdings.


 December 31,
 2018 2017
Consumer   
Wireless:   
Wireless lines in service1
192,700
 196,800
Data:   
Cable modem subscribers2
125,700
 124,900
Video:   
Basic subscribers89,100
 97,200
Homes passed253,400
 252,500
Voice:   
Total local access lines in service3
44,500
 48,900
Business   
Wireless:   
Wireless lines in service1
21,500
 22,600
Data:   
Cable modem subscribers2
9,200
 9,900
Voice:   
Total local access lines in service3
36,500
 38,500
    
1 A wireless line in service is defined as a revenue generating wireless device. On January 1, 2018, we transferred 600 small business wireless lines from Business to Consumer.
A cable modem subscriber is defined by the purchase of cable modem service regardless of the level of service purchased. If one entity purchases multiple cable modem service access points, each access point is counted as a subscriber. On January 1, 2018, we transferred 700 small business cable modem subscribers from Business to Consumer.
3 A local access line in service is defined as a revenue generating circuit or channel connecting a customer to the public switched telephone network. On January 1, 2018, we transferred 1,600 small business local access lines from Business to Consumer.

As described in notes 1 and 4 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements, for accounting purposes, HoldCo is considered to have acquired GCI, LLC's parent company, GCI Liberty in the contribution. Although GCI Holdings’ results are only included in the Company’s results beginning on March 9, 2018, we believe a discussion of GCI Holdings’ results for all periods presented promotes a better understanding of the overall results of its business. For comparison and discussion purposes we are presenting the pro forma results of GCI Holdings for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, inclusive of acquisition accounting adjustments. The pro forma financial information was prepared based on the historical financial information of GCI Holdings and assuming the acquisition of GCI Holdings took place on January 1, 2017. The acquisition price allocation related to the GCI Holdings business combination is preliminary. Accordingly, the pro forma adjustments are based on the preliminary acquisition price allocation and have been made solely for the purpose of providing comparative pro forma financial information. We have made pro forma adjustments to the results for the year ended December 31, 2017 for the impact of the new revenue standard (as described in note 2) to assist in the comparability of the year ended December 31, 2018. We have made pro forma adjustments to the results for the year ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 to reflect the impact of the FCC's decision in regards to RHC funding as described above in the Overview section. The financial information below is presented for illustrative purposes only and does not purport to represent what the results of operations of GCI Holdings would actually have been had the business combination occurred on January 1, 2017, or to project the results of operations of GCI Holdings for any future periods. The pro forma adjustments are based on available information and certain assumptions that the Company's management believes are reasonable. The pro forma adjustments are directly attributable to the business combination including adjustments related to the amortization of acquired tangible and intangible assets, stock-based compensation, and the exclusion of transaction related costs; RHC funding as described above; and the new revenue standard and are expected to have a continuing impact on the results of operations of GCI Holdings.



GCI Holdings’ pro forma operating results were as follows:
 Years ended December 31,
 2018 2017
 amounts in thousands
Revenue$875,290
 894,909
Operating expenses (excluding stock-based compensation included below):   
Operating expense(259,516) (276,885)
Selling, general and administrative expenses(348,903) (333,023)
Adjusted OIBDA266,871
 285,001
Stock-based compensation(6,088) (14,230)
Impairment of intangibles and long-lived assets(219,595) 
Legal settlement(3,600) 
Depreciation and amortization(241,687) (240,206)
Operating income$(204,099) 30,565

Pro forma revenue

The components of pro forma revenue are as follows:
 Years ended December 31,
 2018 2017
 amounts in thousands
Consumer   
Wireless$166,847
 169,601
Data159,667
 145,757
Video89,553
 99,609
Voice20,601
 21,858
Business   
Wireless95,649
 99,940
Data278,315
 290,194
Video19,449
 18,039
Voice45,209
 49,911
Total pro forma revenue$875,290
 894,909

Pro forma consumer wireless revenue decreased $2.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 as compared to the corresponding prior year period. The decrease was partially due to a $4.2 million decrease in wireless plan fee revenue for the year ended December 31, 2018 as compared to the corresponding prior year period, which was primarily driven by a decrease in the number of subscribers and the forgiveness of a month of service for our wireless customers due to the implementation of the new billing system. During the third quarter of 2018, we converted to a new third-party billing system. The billing system implementation included a transition of wireless customers from billing in arrears to billing in advance. To ease the transition for our customers, we chose to forgive one month of service for those customers who would have otherwise received an invoice for two months of service. Additionally, there was a decrease of $2.2 million in USF high cost support ("High Cost Support") for the year ended December 31, 2018 as compared to the corresponding prior year period due to a scheduled decrease in cash received for High Cost Support for urban areas. As previously disclosed, High Cost Support for urban areas ends as of December 31, 2018. We expect High Cost Support to decrease by $4.1 million in 2019 as compared to 2018 due to the end of High Cost Support provided for certain urban areas previously included. The decreases discussed above were partially offset by a $5.1 million increase in wireless equipment revenue for the year ended December 31, 2018 as compared to the corresponding prior year period, which was primarily driven by an increase in the number of higher priced wireless devices sold.



Pro forma consumer data revenue increased $13.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 as compared to the corresponding prior year period. The increase was primarily attributable to an increase in prices for lower tier cable modem plans, which has led to subscribers moving to plans with higher recurring monthly charges that offer higher speeds and higher usage limits.

Pro forma consumer video revenue decreased $10.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 as compared to the corresponding prior year period. The decrease was primarily due to a 8.3% decrease in the number of subscribers.

Pro forma consumer voice revenue decreased $1.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 as compared to the corresponding prior year period. The decrease for the year ended December 31, 2018 was primarily due to a decrease in High Cost Support due to a scheduled decrease in funding for urban areas.

Pro forma business wireless revenuedecreased $4.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 as compared to the corresponding prior year period. The decrease is due to wholesale customers moving backhaul circuits off our network and a reduction of roaming traffic due to a wholesale customer's construction of its own facilities.

Pro forma business data revenue decreased $11.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 as compared to the corresponding prior year period. The decrease was primarily due to a $7.3 million decrease in data and transport service revenue due to the reduction from the RHC Program as discussed above in the Overview section and a $4.3 million decrease in professional services revenue due to a decrease in special project work.

Pro forma business video revenue increased $1.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 as compared to the corresponding prior year period primarily due to an increase in political advertising revenue partially offset by a decrease in video plan fee revenue due to a decrease in business video subscribers.

Pro forma business voice revenuedecreased $4.7 million year ended December 31, 2018 as compared to the corresponding prior year period. The decrease is primarily due to a $2.1 million decrease in long distance revenue as a result of decreased long distance traffic and rate compression and a $2.6 million decrease in local voice revenue due to a decrease in the number of business access lines in service.

Pro forma Operating expensesdecreased $17.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 as compared to the corresponding prior year period. The decrease for the year ended December 31, 2018 was primarily due to a $3.9 million decrease in video distribution and programming costs primarily due to a decrease in the number of video subscribers; a $5.1 million decrease in wireless costs due to a decrease in wireless distribution costs driven by construction of facilities that allowed us to move traffic to our network; a $3.1 million decrease in professional services expense due to a decrease in special project work; and a $2.7 million decrease in voice costs due to the decrease in long distance traffic and a reduction of local access lines in service.

Pro forma Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $15.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, as compared to the corresponding prior year period primarily due to a $4.0 million write-off of costs associated with an abandoned project, a $3.3 million increase in labor costs driven by severance payments to employees who were laid off and annual merit increases, and a $3.3 million increase in software contracts due to additional work as part of the billing system implementation.

Pro forma Stock based compensation decreased $8.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 as compared to the corresponding prior year period due to awards for which, based on purchase accounting, amortization was completely recognized during 2017.

Pro forma Impairment of intangibles and long-lived assets increased $219.6 million primarily due to the impairment of goodwill and cable certificates as a result of unanticipated program revenue changes and certain other market factors impacting GCI Holdings' operating results.
Pro forma Depreciation and amortization increased $1.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2018 as compared to the corresponding prior year period. The increase was primarily due to new assets placed in service since March 9, 2018, which was partially offset due to lower amortization expense because of an accelerated recognition pattern for amortizing intangibles.



Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
We are
The Company is exposed to various types of market risk in the normal course of business including the impact of interest rate changes.due to its ongoing investing and financial activities. Market risk isrefers to the potentialrisk 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. The Company has established policies, procedures and internal processes governing our management of market ratesrisks and prices. We do not hold or issuethe use of financial instruments for trading purposes.to manage its exposure to such risks.

Interest Rate Risk
Our Senior Credit FacilityThe Company is exposed to changes in interest rates primarily as a result of its borrowing and Wells Fargo note payable carryinvestment 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 its long-term and short-term debt are expected to vary as a result of future requirements, market conditions and other factors. The Company manages its exposure to interest rates by maintaining what it believes is an appropriate mix of fixed and variable rate debt. The Company believes this best protects it from interest rate risk. Our Senior Credit Facility consists ofThe Company has achieved this mix by (i) issuing fixed rate debt that it believes has a low stated interest rate and significant term loan, Term Loan B,to maturity, (ii) issuing variable rate debt with appropriate maturities and revolving credit facility. Amounts borrowed under the term loan bear interest at London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus 3.00% or less depending upon our Total Leverage Ratio (as defined in the Senior Credit Facility agreement).  Amounts borrowed under the Term Loan B bearrates and (iii) entering into interest at LIBOR plus


3.00%. Amounts borrowed under the Wells Fargo note payable bear interest at LIBOR plus 2.25%. Should the LIBOR rate change, our interest expense will increase or decrease accordingly.swap arrangements when it deems appropriate. As of December 31, 2016, we have borrowed $523.8 million subject2018, the Company's debt is comprised of the following amounts:
 Variable rate debt Fixed rate debt
 Principal amount Weighted average interest rate Principal amount Weighted average interest rate
 dollar amounts in thousands
GCI Holdings$722,678
 4.8% $775,000
 6.8%
Corporate and other$1,000,906
 4.2% $6,776
 3%

The Company is exposed to interest rate risk.  On this amount, each 1% increasechanges in stock prices primarily as a result of its significant holdings in publicly traded securities. The Company continually monitors changes in stock markets, in general, and changes in the LIBOR interest ratestock prices of its holdings, specifically. The Company believes 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. The Company periodically uses 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.
At December 31, 2018, the fair value of the Company's equity securities was $1.5 billion. Had the market price of such securities been 10% lower at December 31, 2018, the aggregate value of such securities would resulthave been $153 million lower. At December 31, 2018, the fair value of the Company's investment in $5.2Liberty Broadband was $3.1 billion. Had the market price of such security been 10% lower at December 31, 2018, the fair value of such security would have been $307 million of additional gross interest cost on an annualized basis.  All of our other material borrowings have a fixed interest rate.lower.

Item 8. Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
Our          The Company's consolidated financial statements are filed under this Item, beginning on page 44II-17.  Our supplementary data is filed under Item 7, beginning on page 26.

Item 9. Changes In and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial DisclosureDisclosure.

None.

Item 9A. Controls and ProceduresProcedures.
Evaluation of
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
We maintain
In accordance with Exchange Act Rules 13a-15 and 15d-15, the Company carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of management, including its chief executive officer and its principal accounting and financial officer (the “Executives”), of the effectiveness of its disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in reports that we file or submit under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (“Exchange Act”) is recorded, processed, summarized, accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and financial officers, to allow timely decisions regarding required financial disclosure, and reported as specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.  As of the end of the period covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K, we carried out an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our “disclosure controls and procedures” (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a - 15(e)) under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer.report. Based on that evaluation, the Executives concluded that the Company's disclosure controls and procedures were not effective as of December 31, 2018 because of two material weaknesses in its internal control over financial reporting that are described below underin “Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting," ourReporting.”



However, giving full consideration to the two material weaknesses, the Company’s management including our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer,has concluded that our disclosure controlsthe consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K present fairly, in all material respects, the Company’s financial position, results of operations and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2016.

The certifications attached as Exhibits 31 and 32 to thiscash flows for the periods disclosed in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). KPMG LLP has issued its report should be read in conjunction with the disclosures set forth herein.dated February 28, 2019, which expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.

Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Our management
Management of the Company is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over the Company’s financial reporting, as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f). Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, we conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of ourExchange Act. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on the framework in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations (COSO) in 2013.

Based on our evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting, our management concluded that as of December 31, 2016, we maintained effective internal control over financial reporting.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act) identified in connection with the evaluation of our controls performed during the quarter ended December 31, 2016, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with GAAP. A company'sBecause of inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting includes thosemay not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directorsmay deteriorate.


The Company’s management assessed the effectiveness of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Internalinternal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018, using the criteria in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013), issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on this assessment, management has inherent limitations. Internalconcluded that, as of December 31, 2018, the Company's internal control over financial reporting is not effective due to the two material weaknesses described below.

A material weakness is a process that involves human diligence and compliance and is subject to lapsesdeficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in judgment and breakdowns resulting from human failures.  Internalinternal control over financial reporting, also can be circumvented by collusion or improper management override.  Because of such limitations,that there is a riskreasonable possibility that a material misstatementsmisstatement of the Company’s annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis bybasis. Based on management's evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, two material weaknesses were identified as described below at GCI Holdings, a wholly owned subsidiary.

1.Information technology general controls ("ITGCs") around financially significant information technology ("IT") systems were not effective. Specifically, the ITGCs around system access were not operating consistently to ensure that access to applications and data was adequately restricted to appropriate personnel. Because of the deficiency in ITGCs for these systems, the business process controls (automated and manual) that are dependent on these systems were also deemed ineffective because they could have been adversely impacted. We believe that these control deficiencies were a result of an inadequate assessment of IT risks, which in turn contributed to inappropriate reliance on manual business process controls rather than ITGCs.

2.Internal controls around the payroll process were ineffective due to an aggregation of deficiencies relating to the IT deficiencies described above, ineffectively designed controls over payroll changes, and ineffective review and monitoring controls. We believe that these control deficiencies were a result of an inadequate assessment of risk related to outsourcing payroll processing to a third-party provider, which contributed to the ineffective design of controls intended to validate that manual changes to payroll inputs were appropriate.

As part of the control environment improvements disclosed in our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended June 30, 2018 and September 30, 2018, there was an emphasis on improving the strength of the Company’s ITGCs. In several cases, the strengthened controls were not fully operational until the fourth quarter of 2018. Due to the newness of the controls and personnel constraints and due to the control operators' dedication to supporting the launch of GCI Holdings’ new billing and payroll systems, several of the improved access controls were not consistently executed in the fourth quarter of 2018.

The control deficiencies did not result in any identified misstatements.

This Annual Report on Form 10-K does not include an audit report of the Company's independent registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. However, these inherent limitations are known featuresManagement's Report On Internal Control Over Financial Reporting was not subject to audit by the Company's independent registered public accounting firm pursuant to the rules of the financial reporting process.  Therefore, it is possible to design into the process safeguards to reduce, though not eliminate, this risk.Securities and Exchange Commission.

We may enhance, modify, and supplement

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
In March 2018, the Company completed the Transactions, pursuant to which the contribution was treated as a reverse acquisition under the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with GAAP. The Transactions resulted in changes to the management of the Company. As a result, management made significant enhancements to internal controls over financial reporting, especially to the ITGCs as management shifted from a highly manual control environment to more reliance on ITGCs.
Except for certain of the remediation activities described below, and disclosure controlschanges that resulted from the Transactions, there was no change in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the Company’s quarter ended December 31, 2018 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
Remediation Plan for Material Weaknesses in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
In response to the two material weaknesses identified in “Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting,” the Company, with oversight from the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors, has developed a plan to remediate the material weaknesses at GCI Holdings. The remediation actions included the following:
Improvement of the design and operation of control activities and procedures basedassociated with user access to the affected IT systems, including removing all inappropriate IT system access associated with the material weakness and ensuring no inappropriate activity occurred during the period.
Enhance management’s risk assessment to emphasize and evaluate the interdependencies of business processes, automated control activities, and effective ITGCs.
Enhance controls related to the review of payroll changes and of payroll calculations after payroll is processed by the third-party processing company, but before payments are disbursed to employees.

The Company believes the foregoing efforts remediated the two material weaknesses described in “Management’s Report on experience.Internal Control Over Financial Reporting” after the assessment date and prior to the filing of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. However, because the reliability of the internal control process requires repeatable execution, the successful on-going remediation of these material weaknesses will require on-going training, monitoring, and evidence of effectiveness prior to concluding that the controls are effective.
Additionally, the Company and GCI Holdings intend to continue to monitor information system access and the assessment of process level risks to determine whether additional adjustments should be made to ensure controls are effective in the future.

Item 9B. Other InformationInformation.

None.


Part III

Items 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14 are omitted per General Instruction l(1)(a) and (b) of Form 10-K.

Part IV

Item 15. Exhibits, Consolidated Financial Statement Schedules

(1)  Consolidated Financial StatementsPage No.
Included in Part II of this Report:
(2)  Consolidated Financial Statement Schedules
Schedules are omitted, as they are not required or are not applicable, or the required information is shown in the applicable financial statements or notes thereto.


Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm



To the Member
GCI, LLC:


Board of Directors and Shareholder
GCI, Inc.

Opinion on the Consolidated Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of GCI, Inc. (an Alaska corporation)LLC and subsidiaries (the “Company”)Company) as of December 31, 20162018 and 2015, and2017, the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholder’scash flows, and equity for each of the years in the three‑year period ended December 31, 2018, and the related notes (collectively, the consolidated financial statements). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the three‑year period ended December 31, 2016. 2018, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

Basis for Opinion

These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement. Wemisstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were notwe engaged to perform, an audit of the Company’sits internal control over financial reporting. OurAs part of our audits, included considerationwe are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence supportingregarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements, assessingstatements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statement presentation.statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of GCI, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2016, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

/s/ GRANT THORNTONKPMG LLP

Seattle, Washington
March 2, 2017We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2017.

Denver, Colorado
February 28, 2019



GCI, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
GCI, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
Consolidated Balance Sheets
 
December 31, 2018 and 2017
 
 2018
2017
 amounts in thousands
Assets


Current assets:


Cash and cash equivalents$170,741

573,210
Trade and other receivables, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $7,555 and $0, respectively182,600

6,803
Other current assets40,100

1,265
Total current assets393,441

581,278
Investments in equity securities (note 6)1,533,517

1,803,064
Investments in affiliates, accounted for using the equity method (note 7)177,030

114,655
Investment in Liberty Broadband measured at fair value (note 7)3,074,373

3,634,786
Property and equipment, net1,184,606

624
Intangible assets not subject to amortization




Goodwill (note 8)844,182

25,569
Cable certificates305,000


Wireless licenses190,000


Other16,500

4,000

1,355,682

29,569
Intangible assets subject to amortization, net (note 8)436,006

4,237
Other assets, at cost, net of accumulated amortization71,514

4,000
Total assets$8,226,169

6,172,213
 




   (Continued)
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.



II-17



(Amounts in thousands)December 31,
ASSETS2016
2015
Current assets:


Cash and cash equivalents$19,297

26,528






Receivables219,794

208,384
Less allowance for doubtful receivables4,407

3,630
Net receivables215,387

204,754






Prepaid expenses18,599

12,862
Inventories11,945

11,322
Other current assets167

3,129
Total current assets265,395

258,595






Property and equipment2,614,875

2,384,530
Less accumulated depreciation1,452,957

1,290,149
Net property and equipment1,161,918

1,094,381






Goodwill239,263

239,263
Cable certificates191,635

191,635
Wireless licenses92,347

86,347
Other intangible assets, net of amortization74,444

69,290
Other assets40,937

27,429
Total other assets638,626

613,964
Total assets$2,065,939

1,966,940
    
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.   



GCI, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Continued)

(Amounts in thousands)December 31,
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY2016
2015
Current liabilities:


Current maturities of obligations under long-term debt, capital leases, and tower obligations$13,229

12,050
Accounts payable72,937

63,014
Deferred revenue37,618

34,128
Accrued payroll and payroll related obligations30,305

31,337
Accrued liabilities14,729

22,822
Accrued interest8,794

8,523
Subscriber deposits917

1,242
Total current liabilities178,529

173,116






Long-term debt, net1,276,806

1,274,586
Obligations under capital leases, excluding current maturities (including $1,769 and $1,824 due to a related party at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively)50,316

59,651
Deferred income taxes141,785

108,073
Long-term deferred revenue135,877

93,427
Tower obligation87,653
 
Other liabilities54,056

47,992
Total liabilities1,925,022

1,756,845






Commitments and contingencies


Stockholder's equity:




Class A common stock (no par). Authorized 10 shares; issued and outstanding 0.1 shares at December 31, 2016 and 2015206,622

206,622
Paid-in capital161,310

164,508
Retained deficit(257,544)
(192,033)
Total GCI, Inc. stockholder's equity110,388

179,097
Non-controlling interests30,529

30,998
Total stockholder's equity140,917

210,095
Total liabilities and stockholder's equity$2,065,939

1,966,940
    
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
GCI, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
Consolidated Balance Sheets (Continued)
 
December 31, 2018 and 2017
  
 2018 2017
 amounts in thousands
Liabilities and Equity


Current liabilities:


Accounts payable and accrued liabilities$99,424

718
Deferred revenue31,743


Current portion of debt, net of deferred financing costs (note 9)900,759


Other current liabilities44,799

9,747
Total current liabilities1,076,725

10,465
Long-term debt, net (note 9)1,522,939


Loans from GCI Liberty107,682
 
Obligations under capital leases and tower obligations, excluding current portion (note 14)122,245


Long-term deferred revenue65,954

130
Deferred income tax liabilities792,064

643,426
Taxes payable

1,198,315
Other liabilities50,543

95,841
Total liabilities3,738,152

1,948,177
Equity




Member's equity:




Member's investment3,478,744

2,305,440
Retained earnings999,706

1,914,963
Total member's equity4,478,450

4,220,403
Non-controlling interests9,567

3,633
Total equity4,488,017

4,224,036
Commitments and contingencies



Total liabilities and equity$8,226,169

6,172,213
    
 See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.


GCI, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2016, 2015, AND 2014
(Amounts in thousands)2016
2015
2014
Revenues:







Non-related party$933,812

973,251

850,656
Related party

5,283

59,542
Total revenues933,812

978,534

910,198









Cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below):







Non-related party302,578

321,457

291,770
Related party

881

10,934
Total cost of goods sold302,578

322,338

302,704






Selling, general and administrative expenses







Non-related party358,356

337,839

289,674
Related party

540

3,973
Total selling, general and administrative expenses358,356

338,379

293,647









Depreciation and amortization expense193,775

181,767

170,285
Software impairment charge

29,839


Operating income79,103

106,211

143,562









Other income (expense):







Interest expense (including amortization of deferred loan fees)(78,628)
(78,786)
(72,496)
Loss on extinguishment of debt(640)
(27,700)

Impairment of equity method investment

(12,593)

Other5,569

2,917

(1,793)
Other expense, net(73,699)
(116,162)
(74,289)
Income (loss) before income taxes5,404

(9,951)
69,273
Income tax expense(7,080)
(81)
(10,029)
Net income (loss)(1,676)
(10,032)
59,244
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests(469)
159

51,687
Net income (loss) attributable to GCI, Inc.$(1,207)
(10,191)
7,557
      
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.     
GCI, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
Consolidated Statements of Operations
 
Years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016
      

2018
2017
2016
 amounts in thousands
Revenue$739,762

23,817
 22,552
Operating costs and expenses:




  
Operating expense (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below)227,192

11,541
 11,702
Selling, general and administrative, including stock-based compensation (note 12)342,406

64,621
 43,041
Depreciation and amortization expense206,946

3,252
 2,964
Impairment of intangibles and long-lived assets219,595


 

996,139

79,414
 57,707
Operating income (loss)(256,377)
(55,597) (35,155)
Other income (expense):




  
Interest expense (including amortization of deferred loan fees)(105,215)

 
Share of earnings (losses) of affiliates, net (note 7)25,772

7,001
 11,831
Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on financial instruments, net (note 5)(758,836)
637,164
 1,309,365
Other, net(8,100)
2,467
 30,773

(846,379)
646,632
 1,351,969
Earnings (loss) before income taxes(1,102,756)
591,035
 1,316,814
Income tax (expense) benefit184,875

133,522
 (496,245)
Net earnings (loss)(917,881)
724,557
 820,569
Less net earnings (loss) attributable to the non-controlling interests(351)
(29) (114)
Net earnings (loss) attributable to member$(917,530)
724,586
 820,683
      
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.


GCI, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2016, 2015 AND 2014
(Amounts in thousands)Shares of Class A Common Stock 
Class A
Common
Stock
 
Paid-in
Capital
 
Retained
Deficit
 
Non-
controlling
Interests
 
Total
Stockholder's
Equity
Balances at January 1, 20140.1
 $206,622
 79,297
 (128,775) 300,210
 457,354
Net income
 
 
 7,557
 51,687
 59,244
Distribution to General Communication, Inc.
 
 
 (6,850) 
 (6,850)
Contribution from General Communication, Inc.
 
 9,505
 
 
 9,505
Distribution to non-controlling interest
 
 
 
 (50,000) (50,000)
Adjustment to investment by non-controlling interest
 
 
 
 (2,131) (2,131)
Other
 
 
 
 100
 100
Balances at December 31, 20140.1
 206,622
 88,802
 (128,068) 299,866
 467,222
Net income (loss)
 
 
 (10,191) 159
 (10,032)
Distribution to General Communication, Inc.
 
 
 (53,774) 
 (53,774)
Contribution from General Communication, Inc.
 
 86,218
 
 
 86,218
Distribution to non-controlling interest
 
 
 
 (765) (765)
Investment by non-controlling interest
 
 
 
 3,209
 3,209
Non-controlling interest acquisition
 
 (10,282) 
 (271,521) (281,803)
Other
 
 (230) 
 50
 (180)
Balances at December 31, 20150.1
 206,622
 164,508
 (192,033) 30,998
 210,095
Net loss
 
 
 (1,207) (469) (1,676)
Distribution to General Communication, Inc.
 
 
 (64,304) 
 (64,304)
Contribution from General Communication, Inc.
 
 11,247
 
 
 11,247
Non-controlling interest acquisition
 
 (14,445) 
 
 (14,445)
Balances at December 31, 20160.1
 $206,622
 161,310
 (257,544) 30,529
 140,917
            
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
GCI, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
 
Years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016
      
 2018 2017 2016
 
amounts in thousands
(See note 3)
Cash flows from operating activities: 
   
Net earnings (loss)$(917,881)
724,557
 820,569
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings (loss) to net cash from operating activities:




  
Depreciation and amortization206,946

3,252
 2,964
Stock-based compensation expense28,207

26,583
 16,128
Share of (earnings) losses of affiliates, net(25,772)
(7,001) (11,831)
Realized and unrealized (gains) losses on financial instruments, net758,836

(637,164) (1,309,365)
Deferred income tax expense (benefit)(184,293)
(133,522) 496,820
Intergroup tax payments

287,763
 294,708
Impairment of intangibles and long-lived assets219,595


 
Other, net13,441

1,040
 (18,044)
Change in operating assets and liabilities:




  
Current and other assets(36,314)
31,772
 5,881
Payables and other liabilities(31,750)
7,584
 (5,605)
Net cash provided (used) by operating activities31,015

304,864
 292,225
Cash flows from investing activities:




  
Cash and restricted cash from acquisition of GCI Holdings147,957


 
Capital expended for property and equipment(134,352)
(3,488) (2,642)
Purchases of investments(48,581)
(76,815) (264,703)
Sales of investments

2,180
 1,161,596
Investment in Liberty Broadband


 (2,400,000)
Other investing activities, net2,700


 978
Net cash provided (used) by investing activities(32,276)
(78,123) (1,504,771)
Cash flows from financing activities:




  
Borrowings of debt1,111,653


 
Borrowing from GCI Liberty104,000
 
 
Repayment of debt, capital lease, and tower obligations(179,233)

 
Contributions from (distributions to) member(346,991) 
 
Contributions from (distributions to) Qurate retail(1,077,061)
(109,540) (302,797)
Distribution to non-controlling interests(3,625)

 
Other financing activities, net(10,114)
(31,180) 1,989
Net cash provided (used) by financing activities(401,371)
(140,720) (300,808)
Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash(402,632)
86,021
 (1,513,354)
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period574,148

488,127
 2,001,481
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period$171,516

574,148
 488,127
      
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.



GCI, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2016, 2015 AND 2014
(Amounts in thousands)2016 2015 2014
Cash flows from operating activities:     
Net income (loss)$(1,676) (10,032) 59,244
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:     
Depreciation and amortization expense193,775
 181,767
 170,285
Share-based compensation expense11,043
 10,902
 8,392
Deferred income tax expense7,080
 81
 10,029
Loss on extinguishment of debt640
 27,700
 
Software impairment charge
 29,839
 
Impairment of equity method investment
 12,593
 
Other noncash income and expense items9,866
 14,672
 9,933
Change in operating assets and liabilities(14,827) (13,567) 320
Net cash provided by operating activities205,901
 253,955
 258,203
Cash flows from investing activities:     
Purchases of property and equipment(194,478) (176,235) (176,109)
Purchase of KKCC assets(19,700) 
 
Purchases of other assets and intangible assets(17,486) (13,955) (11,018)
Note receivable payment from an equity method investee3,000
 
 
Purchase of investments(1,800) 
 (25,735)
Grant proceeds1,527
 14,007
 1,136
Restricted cash175
 65
 5,871
Proceeds from the sale of investment
 7,551
 6,180
Purchase of businesses, net of cash received
 (12,736) (2,514)
Note receivable issued to an equity method investee
 (3,000) 
Other1,599
 (4,760) 49
Net cash used for investing activities(227,163) (189,063) (202,140)
Cash flows from financing activities:     
Repayment of debt, capital lease, and tower obligations(132,205) (494,982) (118,585)
Borrowing on Senior Credit Facility125,000
 295,000
 89,000
Proceeds from tower transaction90,795
 
 
Net contribution from (distribution to) General Communication, Inc.(64,108) 21,700
 (6,384)
Payment of debt issuance costs(5,451) (13,979) (84)
Issuance of 2025 Notes
 445,973
 
Purchase of non-controlling interests
 (282,505) 
Payment of bond call premium
 (20,244) 
Distribution to non-controlling interest
 (4,932) (50,000)
Other
 203
 421
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities14,031
 (53,766) (85,632)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents(7,231) 11,126
 (29,569)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period26,528
 15,402
 44,971
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period$19,297
 26,528
 15,402
      
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.     
GCI, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
Consolidated Statement of Equity
 
Years ended December 31, 2018, 2017, and 2016
 
 Member's investment Retained earnings Non-controlling interest in equity of subsidiaries Total equity
 amounts in thousands
Balances at January 1, 2016$2,684,850
 347,811
 3,776
 3,036,437
Net earnings (loss)
 820,683
 (114) 820,569
Cumulative effect of accounting change
 21,576
 
 21,576
Stock-based compensation14,906
 
 
 14,906
Contributions from (distributions to) former parent, net(272,195) 
 
 (272,195)
Intergroup (payments) receipts(30,602) 
 
 (30,602)
Other1,493
 498
 
 1,991
Balances at December 31, 20162,398,452
 1,190,568
 3,662
 3,592,682
Net earnings (loss)
 724,586
 (29) 724,557
Stock-based compensation26,243
 
 
 26,243
Withholding taxes on net share settlements of stock-based compensation(27,793) 
 
 (27,793)
Contributions from (distributions to) former parent, net(146,680) 
 
 (146,680)
Intergroup (payments) receipts37,140
 
 
 37,140
Other18,078
 (191) 
 17,887
Balances at December 31, 20172,305,440
 1,914,963
 3,633
 4,224,036
Net earnings (loss)
 (917,530) (351) (917,881)
Stock-based compensation25,399
 
 
 25,399
Contribution of taxes in connection with HoldCo Split-Off1,146,750
 
 
 1,146,750
Distribution to Qurate Retail(1,079,689) 
 
 (1,079,689)
Contributions from (distributions to) member, net(346,955) 2,019
 
 (344,936)
Allocated consideration in connection with the Transactions1,441,669
 
 7,000
 1,448,669
Distribution to non-controlling interests
 
 (3,625) (3,625)
Other(13,870) 254
 2,910
 (10,706)
Balances at December 31, 2018$3,478,744
 999,706
 9,567
 4,488,017
        
 See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 
GCI, INC.LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016
 


(1)Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Principles
In the following discussion, GCI, Inc. and its direct and indirect subsidiaries are referred to as “we,” “us” and “our.”

(1) Basis of Presentation
We were incorporated in Alaska in 1997 to affect
GCI, LLC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of GCI Liberty, Inc. On April 4, 2017, Liberty Interactive Corporation, now known as Qurate Retail, Inc. ("Qurate Retail"), entered into an Agreement and Plan of Reorganization (as amended, the issuance of Senior Notes. As a wholly owned subsidiary of"reorganization agreement" and the transactions contemplated thereby, the "Transactions") with GCI, LLC's parent company, General Communication, Inc. ("GCI"), wean Alaska corporation and indirect parent company of GCI Holdings, LLC ("GCI Holdings"), and Liberty Interactive LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and a direct wholly‑owned subsidiary of Qurate Retail ("LI LLC"). Pursuant to the reorganization agreement, GCI amended and restated its articles of incorporation (which resulted in GCI being renamed GCI Liberty, Inc. ("GCI Liberty")) and effected a reclassification and auto conversion of its common stock. Following these events, Qurate Retail acquired GCI Liberty on March 9, 2018 through a reorganization in which certain Qurate Retail interests, assets and liabilities attributed to its Ventures Group (following the reattribution by Qurate Retail of certain assets and liabilities from its Ventures Group to its QVC Group), were contributed to GCI Liberty in exchange for a controlling interest in GCI Liberty (the "contribution"). Qurate Retail and LI LLC contributed to GCI Liberty their entire equity interests in Liberty Broadband Corporation ("Liberty Broadband"), Charter Communications, Inc. ("Charter"), and LendingTree, Inc. ("LendingTree"), the Evite, Inc. ("Evite") operating business and other assets and liabilities (collectively, "HoldCo"), in exchange for (a) the issuance to LI LLC of a number of shares of GCI Liberty Class A common stock and a number of shares of GCI Liberty Class B common stock equal to the number of outstanding shares of Qurate Retail's Series A Liberty Ventures common stock and Qurate Retail's Series B Liberty Ventures common stock on March 9, 2018, respectively, (b) cash and (c) the assumption of certain liabilities by GCI Liberty.

The contribution was treated as a reverse acquisition under the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States ("GAAP"). For accounting purposes, HoldCo is considered to have acquired GCI, LLC's parent company, GCI Liberty, in the contribution based, among other considerations, upon the fact that in exchange for the contribution of HoldCo, Qurate Retail received a controlling interest in the combined company of GCI Liberty.

Following the contribution and acquisition of GCI Liberty, Qurate Retail effected a tax‑free separation of its controlling interest in the combined company, GCI Liberty, to the holders of Qurate Retail's Liberty Ventures common stock in full redemption of all outstanding shares of such stock (the "HoldCo Split‑Off"), in which each outstanding share of Qurate Retail's Series A Liberty Ventures common stock ("LVNTA") was redeemed for one share of GCI Liberty Class A common stock and each outstanding share of Qurate Retail's Series B Liberty Ventures common stock ("LVNTB") was redeemed for one share of GCI Liberty Class B common stock. In July 2018, the Internal Revenue Service completed its review of the HoldCo Split-Off and informed Qurate Retail that it agreed with the nontaxable characterization of the transactions. Qurate Retail received an Issue Resolution Agreement from the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") documenting this conclusion.

On May 10, 2018, pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of March 22, 2018, GCI Liberty completed its reincorporation into Delaware by merging with its wholly owned Delaware subsidiary, which was the surviving corporation (the “Reincorporation Merger”). References to GCI Liberty prior to May 10, 2018 refer to GCI Liberty, Inc., an Alaska corporation and references to GCI Liberty after May 10, 2018 refer to GCI Liberty, Inc., a Delaware corporation.

The accompanying consolidated financial statements refer to the combination of GCI Holdings, an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of GCI, LLC, non‑controlling interests in Liberty Broadband, Charter and LendingTree, a controlling interest in Evite, and certain other assets and liabilities as the "Company", "us", "we" and "our." Although HoldCo was reported as a combined company until the date of the HoldCo Split-Off, these financial statements present all periods as consolidated by the Company. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in the consolidated financial statements.

The Company, through our initial capitalization allits ownership of interests in subsidiaries previously held by GCI. The GCI and GCI, Inc. consolidated financial statements include substantially the same operating activities.

(a)Business
We provideother companies, is primarily engaged in providing a full range of wireless, data, video, voice, and managed services to residential customers, businesses, governmental entities, and educational and medical institutions primarily in Alaska.
(b)Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation
Our consolidated financial statements include the consolidated accounts of GCI, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiaries, The Alaska Wireless Network, LLC ("AWN") of which we owned a two-third interest through February 2, 2015 when we purchased the remaining one-third interest, and four variable interest entities (“VIEs”) for which we are the primary beneficiary after providing certain loans and guarantees.  These VIEs are Terra GCI Investment Fund, LLC (“TIF”), Terra GCI 2 Investment Fund, LLC (“TIF 2”), Terra GCI 2-USB Investment Fund, LLC (“TIF 2-USB”) and Terra GCI 3 Investment Fund, LLC (“TIF 3”).  We also include in our consolidated financial statements non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries for which our ownership is less than 100 percent.  All significant intercompany transactions between non-regulated affiliates of our company are eliminated.  Intercompany transactions generated between regulated and non-regulated affiliates of our company are not eliminated in consolidation.

(c)Non-controlling Interests
Non-controlling interests representThe Company holds investments that are accounted for using the equity ownership interests in consolidated subsidiariesmethod. The Company does not owned by us.  Non-controlling interests are adjusted for contributions, distributions, and income and loss attributablecontrol the decision making process or business management practices of these affiliates. Accordingly, the Company relies on management of these affiliates to the non-controlling interest partners of the consolidated entities.  Income and loss is allocated to the non-controlling interests based on the respective governing documents.

(d)
Acquisitions

Wireless Acquisition
On February 2, 2015, we purchased Alaska Communications Systems Group, Inc.'s (“ACS”) interest in AWN ("AWN NCI Acquisition") and substantially all the assets of ACS and its affiliates related to ACS’s wireless operations (“Acquired ACS Assets”) (collectively the "Wireless Acquisition"). Under the terms of the agreement, we paid ACS $293.2 million, excluding working capital adjustments and agreed to terminate certain agreements related to the use of ACS network assets that were included as part of the original transaction that closed in July 2013. The Acquired ACS Assets include substantially all of ACS’s wireless subscriber assets, including subscriber contracts, and certain of ACS’s CDMA network assets, including fiber strands and associated cell site electronics and microwave facilities and associated electronics. We assumed from ACS post-closing liabilities of ACS and its affiliates under contracts assumed by us and liabilitiesprovide it with respect to the ownership by ACS of its equity interest in AWN to the extent accruing and related to the period after closing. All other liabilities were retained by ACS and its affiliates.

We have accounted for the AWN NCI Acquisition as the acquisition of a non-controlling interestaccurate financial information prepared in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 810, Consolidation, andGAAP that the Acquired ACS Assets as the acquisition of assets that do not constitute a business in accordance with ASC 805-50, Business Combinations - Related Issues. Total consideration transferred to ACSCompany uses in the transaction consistedapplication of the cash payment, settlement of working capital, andequity method. In addition, the fair market value of certain rights to receive future capacity terminated as part ofCompany relies on audit reports that are provided by the Wireless Acquisition agreement. The future capacity receivable assets transferred as consideration were adjusted to fair value as of the acquisition date resulting in a gain of $1.2 million recorded in Other Income (Expense) in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2015. We allocated the total consideration transferred to ACS between the AWN NCI Acquisition and the Acquired ACS Assets based on the relative fair values of theaffiliates'
 
GCI, INC.LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016
 

assetsindependent 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 its consolidated financial statements.

Loans from GCI Liberty

Broadband Holdco, LLC ("Broadband Holdco"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of GCI, LLC, entered into a Master Revolving Subordinated Promissory Note with GCI Liberty where it may borrow up to $200.0 million on a revolving basis (the "Subordinated Revolving Note"). The interest rate on the Subordinated Revolving Note is the applicable interest rate on the Margin Loan (as defined in note 9). The Subordinated Revolving Note has an outstanding balance of $101.0 million as of December 31, 2018 and non-controllingmatures on the one year anniversary of the date that the Margin Loan is paid in full.

Evite, a wholly-owned subsidiary of GCI, LLC, entered into a master promissory note with GCI Liberty where it may borrow up to $10.0 million on a revolving basis. The master promissory note has a fixed interest received.rate of 3.0% and matures on March 9, 2020. The line of credit had an outstanding balance of $6.7 million as of December 31, 2018.

Split‑Off from Qurate Retail

Following the HoldCo Split‑Off, Qurate Retail and GCI Liberty operate as separate, publicly traded companies, and neither have any stock ownership, beneficial or otherwise, in the other. In connection with the HoldCo Split‑Off, Qurate Retail, Liberty Media Corporation ("Liberty Media") (or its subsidiary) and GCI Liberty entered into certain agreements in order to govern certain of the ongoing relationships among the companies after the HoldCo Split‑Off and to provide for an orderly transition. These agreements include an indemnification agreement, a reorganization agreement, a services agreement, a facilities sharing agreement and a tax sharing agreement.

The following table summarizesreorganization agreement provides for, among other things, the principal corporate transactions (including the internal restructuring) required to effect the Transactions and certain conditions to and provisions governing the relationship between GCI Liberty and Qurate Retail (for accounting purposes a related party of GCI, LLC) with respect to and resulting from the Transactions. The tax sharing agreement provides for the allocation and indemnification of total consideration transferredtax liabilities and benefits between Qurate Retail and GCI Liberty and other agreements related to ACS betweentax matters. Pursuant to the AWN NCI Acquisitionservices agreement, Liberty Media provides GCI Liberty with general and administrative services including legal, tax, accounting, treasury and investor relations support. Under the Acquired ACS Assets excluding working capital adjustments (amountsfacilities sharing agreement, GCI Liberty shares office space with Liberty Media and related amenities at its corporate headquarters. GCI Liberty reimburses Liberty Media for direct, out‑of‑pocket expenses incurred by Liberty Media in thousands):
Total consideration transferred to ACS $304,838
   
Allocation of consideration between wireless assets and non-controlling interest acquired:  
AWN non-controlling interest $303,831
Property and equipment 746
Other intangible assets 261
Total consideration $304,838

We have accountedproviding these services and for the AWN NCI Acquisition as an equity transaction, with the carrying amountcosts that will be negotiated semi‑annually. Liberty Media is a related party of the non-controlling interest adjusted to reflect the change in ownership of AWN. The difference between the fair value of consideration paid and the total of the additional deferred taxes incurredGCI Liberty for accounting purposes as a result of the transaction and the carrying amount of the non-controlling interest has been recognized as additional paid-in capital in our Consolidated Statement of Stockholder's Equity. The impact of the AWN NCI Acquisition is summarized in the following table (amounts in thousands):
Reduction of non-controlling interest $268,364
Increase in deferred tax assets 9,583
Additional paid-in capital 25,884
Fair value of consideration paid for acquisition of equity interest $303,831

Pursuantservices agreement. Under these agreements, approximately $8.3 million was reimbursable to the accounting guidance in ASC 805-50, we determined that the Acquired ACS Assets did not meet the criteria necessary to constitute a business combination and was therefore accounted for as an asset purchase. We recognized the assets acquired in our Consolidated Balance Sheet at their allocated cost on the day of acquisition. The deferred tax assets and additional paid-in capital were adjusted in 2016 as a result of the reallocation of partnership tax basis as determined when preparing the 2015 federal tax return.

In conjunction with the Wireless Acquisition, we amended certain agreements related to the right to use ACS network assets. We adjusted the related right to use asset to fair value as of the acquisition date resulting in a loss of $3.8 million recorded in Other Income (Expense) in our Consolidated Statement of OperationsLiberty Media for the year ended December 31, 2015.2018.

Other Acquisitions
During the year ended December 31, 2015, we completed three additional business acquisitions for total cash consideration(2) Summary of $12.7 million, net of cash received. We accounted for the transactions using the acquisition method of accounting under ASC 805, Business Combinations. Accordingly, the assets received, liabilities assumed and any non-controlling interests were recorded at their estimated fair value as of the acquisition date. We determined the estimated fair values using a combination of the discounted cash flows method and estimates made by management.

(e)Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
In May 2014, the FinancialSignificant Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. This standard provides guidance for the recognition, measurement and disclosure of revenue resulting from contracts with customers and will
supersede virtually all of the current revenue recognition guidance under GAAP. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-14, which deferred the effective date to fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-08, which amended the guidance in the new standard in order to clarify the principal versus agent assessment and is intended to make the guidance more operable and lead to more consistent application. In April 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-10, which clarifies the identification of performance obligations and the licensing
GCI, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Principles

implementation guidance in ASU 2014-09. In May 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-11, which rescinds SEC paragraphs pursuant to SEC staff announcements regarding ASU 2014-09. These rescissions include changes to topics pertaining to accounting for shippingCash and handling fees and costs and accounting for consideration given by a vendor to a customer. In May 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-12, which provides clarifying guidance in certain narrow areas and adds some practical expedients to ASU 2014-09. Finally, ASU 2016-20 makes minor corrections or improvements to ASU 2014-09 that are not expected to have a significant effect on accounting practices under ASU 2014-09.Cash Equivalents

The standard permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method. We anticipate using the retrospective method to adopt this standard. Early adoption is permitted for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016, however, we do not plan to early adopt this standard. We have assessed our material revenue streams and we do not anticipate significant changes to our revenue recognition as a result of this new standard.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). The new standard establishes a right-of-use ("ROU") model that requires a lessee to record a ROU asset and a lease liability on the balance sheet for all leases with terms longer than 12 months. Leases will be classified as either finance or operating, with classification affecting the pattern of expense recognition in the income statement. Lease accounting by the lessor remains largely unchanged by the new standard. The new standard is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years, and is required to be adopted using the modified retrospective approach. We are currently evaluating the impact of the provisions of this new standard on our financial position and results of operations, but we expect that adoption will have a material impact on our long-term assets and liabilities.

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-09, Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting, which amends ASC 718, Compensation - Stock Compensation. The update includes provisions intended to simplify various aspects related to how share-based payments are accounted for and presented in the financial statements. ASU 2016-09 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2016. Early adoption is permitted with any adjustments reflected as of the beginning of the fiscal year of adoption. We are currently evaluating the impact of the provisions of this new standard on our financial position and results of operations.

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments—Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments. The update introduces a new forward-looking approach, based on expected losses, to estimate credit losses on certain types of financial instruments, including trade receivables. The estimate of expected credit losses will require entities to incorporate consideration of historical information, current information and reasonable and supportable forecasts. This ASU also expands the disclosure requirements to enable users of financial statements to understand the entity’s assumptions, models and methods for estimating expected credit losses. ASU 2016-13 is effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2019, and is required to be adopted using the modified retrospective approach. Early adoption is permitted for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018. We are currently evaluating the impact of the provisions of this new standard on our financial position and results of operations.

In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments. This update addresses eight specific cash flow issues with the objective of reducing diversity in practice. The issues identified within the ASU include: debt prepayments or extinguishment costs; contingent consideration made after a business combination; proceeds from the settlement of insurance claims; proceeds from the settlement of corporate-owned life insurance policies (including bank-owned life insurance policies); distributions received from equity method investees; beneficial interests in securitization transactions; and separately identified cash flows and application of the predominance principle. ASU 2016-15 is effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted for annual and interim reporting periods. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material effect on our statement of cash flows.

GCI, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(f)Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-03, Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs. ASU 2015-03 requires an entity to present debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of the debt liability, consistent with debt discounts. The recognition and measurement guidance for debt issuance costs are not affected by the amendments in this update. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-15, Interest - Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Presentation and Subsequent Measurement of Debt Issuance Costs Associated with Line-of-Credit Arrangements which clarifies that the guidance in ASU 2015-03 does not apply to line-of-credit arrangements. According to ASU 2015-15, line-of-credit arrangements will continue to defer and present debt issuance costs as an asset and subsequently amortize the deferred debt issue costs ratably over the term of the arrangement. We adopted ASU 2015-03 retrospectively as of January 1, 2016, and have reclassified $15.4 million of the December 31, 2015, Deferred Loan and Senior Note Costs, Net of Amortization balance included in Total Other Assets to Long-Term Debt, Net included in Total Liabilities.

In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-05, Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40): Customer's Accounting for Fees Paid in a Cloud Computing Arrangement. The ASU provides guidance in evaluating whether a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license. If a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license, then the software license element of the arrangement should be accounted for as an acquisition of a software license. If the arrangement does not contain a software license, it should be accounted for as a service contract. We adopted ASU 2015-05 prospectively as of January 1, 2016. The adoption of this standard did not have a significant effect on our financial position or results of operations.

In June 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-10, Technical Corrections and Updates. The amendments in this update cover a wide range of topics in the codification and are generally categorized as follows: Amendments Related to Differences between Original Guidance and the Codification; Guidance Clarification and Reference Corrections; Simplification; and, Minor Improvements. We adopted ASU 2015-10 as of January 1, 2016. The adoption of this standard did not have a significant effect on our financial position or results of operations.

In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-11, Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory. Under ASU 2015-11, inventory will be measured at the “lower of cost and net realizable value” and options that currently exist for “market value” will be eliminated. The ASU defines net realizable value as the “estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation.” No other changes were made to the current guidance on inventory measurement. We adopted ASU 2015-11 prospectively as of April 1, 2016. The adoption of this standard did not have a significant effect on our financial position or results of operations.

In January 2017, the FASB issued an ASU No. 2017-01, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Clarifying the Definition of a Business. This ASU clarifies the definition of a business with the objective of adding guidance to assist entities with evaluating whether transactions should be accounted for as acquisitions (or disposals) of assets or businesses. The definition of a business affects many areas of accounting including acquisitions, disposals, goodwill, and consolidation. We adopted and applied ASU 2017-01 to a transaction that we closed in November 2016 (see Note 5 of this Form 10-K for information on the transaction).

(g)Regulatory Accounting
We account for the regulated operations of our incumbent local exchange carriers in accordance with the accounting principles for regulated enterprises.  This accounting recognizes the economic effects of rate regulation by recording cost and a return on investment as such amounts are recovered through rates authorized by regulatory authorities.  Accordingly, plant and equipment is depreciated over lives approved by regulators and certain costs and obligations are deferred based upon approvals received from regulators to permit recovery of such amounts in future years.  Our cost studies and depreciation rates for our regulated operations are subject to periodic audits that could result in a change to recorded revenues.

(h)Earnings per Common Share
We are a wholly owned subsidiary of GCI and, accordingly, are not required to present earnings per share. Our common stock is not publicly traded.

GCI, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(i)Cash Equivalents
Cash equivalents consist of certificates of depositinvestments which are readily convertible into cash and have an original maturitymaturities of three months or less at the date acquiredtime of acquisition. Financial instruments, which potentially subject the Company to concentration of credit risk, consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents and corporate debt securities. The Company maintains some cash and cash equivalents balances with financial institutions that are readily convertible into cash.in excess of Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insurance limits.

(j)Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Receivables
Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Receivables

Trade accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amount and do not bear interest. The allowance for doubtful receivables is ourthe Company's best estimate of the amount of probable credit losses in ourits existing accounts receivable. We base ourThe Company bases its estimates on the aging of ourits accounts receivable balances, financial health of specific customers, regional economic data, changes in ourits collections process, regulatory requirements and ourits customers’ compliance with Universal Service Administrative Company rules. We review ourThe Company reviews its allowance for doubtful receivables methodology at least annually.

GCI, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016

Depending upon the type of account receivable ourthe Company's allowance is calculated using a pooled basis with an allowance for all accounts greater than 120 days past due, a pooled basis using a percentage of related accounts, or a specific identification method.  When a specific identification method is used, potentially uncollectible accounts due to bankruptcy or other issues are reviewed individually for collectability.  Account balances are charged off against the allowance when we feelit determines that it is probable the receivable will not be recovered. We doThe Company does not have any off-balance-sheet credit exposure related to ourits customers.

Wireless Equipment Installment Plan ("EIP") ReceivablesChanges in the allowance for doubtful receivables during the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 are summarized below (amounts in thousands):
We offer new
   Additions Deductions  
DescriptionBalance at beginning of year Charged to costs and expenses Charged to other accounts Write-offs net of recoveries Balance at end of year
2018$
 8,741
 
 1,186
 7,555
2017$1,100
 
 
 1,100
 
2016$244
 1,100
 
 244
 1,100

Investments

All marketable equity and existing wireless customersdebt securities held by the option to participateCompany are carried at fair value, generally based on quoted market prices and changes in Upgrade Now, a program that provides eligible customers withthe fair value of such securities are reported in realized and unrealized gain (losses) on financial instruments in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations. The Company elected the measurement alternative (defined as the cost of the security, adjusted for changes in fair value when there are observable prices, less impairments) for its equity securities without readily determinable fair values.
For those investments in affiliates in which the Company has the ability to purchase certain wireless devicesexercise significant influence, the equity method of accounting is used. Under this method, the investment, originally recorded at cost, is adjusted to recognize the Company’s share of net earnings or losses of the affiliate as they occur rather than as dividends or other distributions are received. Losses are limited to the extent of the Company’s investment in, installments overadvances to and commitments for the investee. In the event the Company is unable to obtain accurate financial information from an equity affiliate in a timely manner, the Company records its share of earnings or losses of such affiliate on a lag.
Changes in the Company’s proportionate share of the underlying equity of an equity method investee, which result from the issuance of additional equity securities by such equity investee, are recognized in the statements of operations through the Other, net line item. To the extent there is a difference between the Company's ownership percentage in the underlying equity of an equity method investee and the Company's carrying value, such difference is accounted for as if the equity method investee were a consolidated subsidiary.
The Company continually reviews its equity method investments to determine whether a decline in fair value below the carrying value is other than temporary. The primary factors the Company considers in its determination are the length of time that the fair value of the investment is below the Company’s carrying value; the severity of the decline; and the financial condition, operating performance and near term prospects of the investee. In addition, the Company considers the reason for the decline in fair value, be it general market conditions, industry specific or investee specific; analysts’ ratings and estimates of 12-month share price targets for the investee; changes in stock price or valuation subsequent to the balance sheet date; and the Company’s intent and ability to hold the investment for a period of uptime sufficient to 24 months. Participating customers have the right to trade-in the original equipmentallow for a new device after makingrecovery in fair value. If the equivalent of 12 monthly installment payments, provided their handsetdecline in fair value is in good working condition. Upon upgrade,deemed to be other than temporary, the outstanding balancecarrying value of the EIPequity method investment is exchangedwritten down to fair value. In situations where the fair value of an investment is not evident due to a lack of a public market price or other factors, the Company uses its best estimates and assumptions to arrive at the estimated fair value of such investment. The Company’s assessment of the foregoing factors involves a high degree of judgment and accordingly, actual results may differ materially from the Company’s estimates and judgments. Writedowns for the used handset.

At the time of sale, we impute interest on the receivables associated with Upgrade Now. We record the imputed interest as a reduction to the related accounts receivable. Interest income, which isequity method investments are included in Other Income and (Expense) in our Consolidated Statementsshare of Operations, is recognized overearnings (losses) of affiliates.
The Company performs a qualitative assessment each reporting period for its equity securities without readily determinable fair values to identify whether an equity security could be impaired. When the financed installment term.Company's qualitative assessment

We assess the collectability of our EIP receivables based upon a variety of factors, including payment trends and other qualitative factors. The credit profiles of our customers with a Upgrade Now plan are similar to those of our customers with a traditional subsidized plan. Customers with a credit profile which carries a higher risk are required to make a down payment for equipment financed through Upgrade Now.

(k)Inventories
GCI, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016
Wireless handset inventories
indicates that an impairment could exist, it estimates the fair value of the investment and to the extent the fair value is less than the carrying value, it records the difference as an impairment in the consolidated statements of operations.

Derivative Instruments
The Company’s derivative is recorded on the balance sheet at fair value. The Company's derivative is not designated as a hedge, and changes in the fair value of the derivative are statedrecognized in earnings.

The fair value of the Company’s derivative instrument is estimated using the Black-Scholes-Merton model. The Black-Scholes-Merton model incorporates a number of variables in determining such fair values, including expected volatility of the underlying security and an appropriate discount rate. The Company obtains volatility rates from pricing services based on the expected volatility of the underlying security over the remaining term of the derivative instrument. A discount rate is obtained at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Cost is determined using the average cost method. Handset costs in excessinception of the revenues generated from handset sales, or handset subsidies, are expensedderivative instrument and updated each reporting period, based on the Company’s estimate of the discount rate at which it could currently settle the timederivative instrument. The Company considered its own credit risk as well as the credit risk of sale. We do not recognizeits counterparties in estimating the expected handset subsidies prior todiscount rate. Management judgment is required in estimating the time of sale because the promotional discount decision is made at the point of sale and/or because we expect to recover the handset subsidies through service revenue.Black-Scholes-Merton model variables.

Inventories of other merchandise for resaleProperty and parts are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Cost is determined using the average cost method.Equipment

(l)Property and Equipment
Property and equipment is stated at cost.depreciated cost less impairments, if any. Construction costs of facilities are capitalized. Equipment financed under a capital leaseslease is recorded at the lower of fair market value or the present value of future minimum lease payments at inception of the lease. Construction in progress represents transmission equipment and support equipment and systems not placed in service on December 31, 2016,2018, that management intends to place in service during 2017 and 2018.

GCI, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

2019. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method based upon the shorter of the estimated useful lives of the assets or the lease term, if applicable, inapplicable.

Net property and equipment consists of the following ranges:following:
Asset CategoryAsset Lives
Telephony transmission equipment and distribution facilities5-20 years
Fiber optic cable systems15-25 years
Cable transmission equipment and distribution facilities5-30 years
Support equipment and systems3-20 years
Transportation equipment5-13 years
Property and equipment under capital leases12-20 years
Buildings25 years
Customer premise equipment2-20 years
Studio equipment10-15 years
 December 31,
 2018 2017
 amounts in thousands
Land and buildings (25 years)$105,525
 441
Telephony transmission equipment and distribution facilities (5-20 years)763,957
 
Cable transmission equipment and distribution facilities (5-30 years)100,391
 
Studio equipment (10-15 years)3,315
 
Support equipment and systems (3-20 years)118,230
 921
Transportation equipment (5-13 years)16,066
 
Customer premise equipment (2-20 years)21,351
 
Fiber optic cable systems (15-25 years)53,384
 
Property and equipment under capital leases41,084
 
Construction in progress113,819
 
 1,337,122
 1,362
Less accumulated depreciation145,321
 738
Less accumulated amortization on property and equipment under capital leases7,195
 
Net property and equipment$1,184,606
 624

Amortization of property and equipment under capital leases is included in Depreciation and Amortization Expense in ourthe Consolidated Statements of Operations. Depreciation expense for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 was $153.5 million, $0.2 million and $0.1 million, respectively.

GCI, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016

Repairs and maintenance are charged to expense as incurred. Expenditures for major renewals and betterments are capitalized. Accumulated depreciation is removed and gains or losses are recognized at the time of sales or other dispositions of property and equipment.

(m)Intangible Assets and Goodwill
Goodwill, cable certificates (certificatesMaterial interest costs incurred during the construction period of conveniencenon-software capital projects are capitalized. Interest is capitalized in the period commencing with the first expenditure for a qualifying capital project and public necessity), wireless licensesending when the capital project is substantially complete and broadcast licenses are not amortized. Cable certificates represent certain perpetual operating rights to provide cable services. Wireless licenses representready for its intended use. Capitalized interest costs for the right to utilize certain radio frequency spectrum to provide wireless communications services.  Broadcast licenses represent the right to broadcast television stations in certain areas. Goodwill represents the excess of cost over fair value of net assets acquired in connection with a business acquisition.year ended December 31, 2018 was $3.9 million.

All other amortizableImpairment of Long-lived Assets

The Company periodically reviews the carrying amounts of its property and equipment and its intangible assets are being amortized over 2 to 20 year periods using the straight-line method.

(n)Impairment of Intangibles, Goodwill,(other than goodwill and Long-lived Assets
Cable certificates, wireless licenses and broadcast licenses are treated as indefinite-lived intangible assets and are tested annually for impairmentassets) to determine whether current events or more frequently if events and circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired.  We assessed qualitative factors (“Step Zero”) in our annual test over our cable certificate, wireless license and broadcast license assets as of October 31, 2016 to determine if it is more likely than not that those intangible assets are impaired and require further analysis.As part of our Step Zero analysis, we considered our own economic position, estimated future growth, and geographic and industry economic outlooks. These estimates and assumptions have a significant impact on our analysis.

The quantitative impairment test ("Step One") for identifiable indefinite-lived intangible assets other than goodwill consists of a comparison of the estimated fair value of the intangible asset with itssuch carrying value.  If the carrying value of the intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.  After an impairment loss is recognized, the adjusted carrying amount of the asset becomes its new accounting basis.  Impairment testing of our cable certificate, wireless license and broadcast license assets as of October 31, 2015, used a direct discounted cash flow method. This approach requires us to make estimates and assumptions including projected cash flows and discount rates.  These estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on whether an impairment charge is recognized and also the magnitude of any such impairment charge.

Our goodwill is tested annually for impairment, and is tested for impairment more frequently if events and circumstances indicate that the assets might be impaired.  We used a Step Zero analysis for goodwill impairment as of October 31, 2016 to determine whether it is more likely than not that goodwill is impaired. We considered qualitative factors such as our economic position, estimated future growth, geographic and
GCI, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

industry economic outlooks, and the margin by which our fair value exceeded the book value in 2015. These estimates and assumptions have a significant impact on our analysis.

For goodwill impairment testing as of October 31, 2015, we used the quantitative two-step process.  The first step of the quantitative goodwill impairment test is used to identify potential impairment by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount.  To determine our reporting units, we evaluated the components one level below the segment level and we aggregated the components if they had similar economic characteristics. As a result of this assessment, our reporting units were the same as our two reportable segments. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill.  If the carrying amount of the reporting unit's goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.  The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill that would be recognized in a business combination.  We used an income approach to determine the fair value of our reporting units for purposes of our goodwill impairment test.  In addition, a market-based approach is used where possible to corroborate the fair values determined by the income approach.  The income approach requires us to make estimates and assumptions including projected cash flows and discount rates.  These estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on whether an impairment charge is recognized and also the magnitude of any such impairment charge.

We completed our annual goodwill and intangibles review and no impairment charge was recorded for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

Long-lived assets, such as property, plant, and equipment, and purchased or developed intangibles subject to amortization are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset groupamounts may not be recoverable.  Recoverability of an asset group to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset group to estimatedundiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset group.  If the carrying amount of an asset group exceeds its estimated undiscounted future cash flows, an impairment charge is recognized by the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset group is greater than the expected undiscounted cash flows to be generated by such asset group, including its ultimate disposition, an impairment adjustment is to be recognized.  Such adjustment is measured by the amount that the carrying value of such asset groups exceeds their fair value.  The Company generally measures fair value by considering sale prices for similar asset groups or by discounting estimated future cash flows using an appropriate discount rate.  Considerable management judgment is necessary to estimate the fair value of asset groups.  Accordingly, actual results could vary significantly from such estimates.  Asset groups to be disposed of are carried at the asset group.lower of their financial statement carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell.

During the year ended December 31, 2015, we recorded impairment charges related to our long-lived software assets (see Note 15 of this Form 10-K for detailed information). We recorded no impairment charges related to our long lived assets for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2014.

(o)Amortization and Write-off of Loan Fees
Debt issuance costs are deferred and amortized using the effective interest method. If a refinancing or amendment of a debt instrument is a substantial modification, all or a portion of the applicable debt issuance costs are written off.  If a debt instrument is repaid prior to the maturity date we will write-off the related unamortized amount of debt issuance costs.

(p)Other Assets
Other Assets primarily include broadcast licenses, equity investments that are accounted for using the equity or cost method, restricted cash, long-term deposits, prepayments, long-term EIP receivables and long-term non-trade accounts receivable.

(q)Investments
We hold investments in equity method and cost method investees. Investments in equity method investees are those for which we have the ability to exercise significant influence but do not control and are not the primary beneficiary. Significant influence typically exists if we have a 20% to 50% ownership interest in the venture unless persuasive evidence to the contrary exists. Under this method of accounting, we record our proportionate share of the net earnings or losses of equity method investees and a corresponding increase or decrease to the investment balances. Cash payments to equity method investees such as additional investments, loans and advances and expenses incurred on behalf of investees, as well as payments from equity method investees such as dividends, distributions and repayments of loans and advances are recorded as adjustments to investment balances. Investments in entities in which we have no control or significant influence are accounted for under the cost method.Asset Retirement Obligations

GCI, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

We review our investment portfolio each reporting period to determine whether there are events or circumstances that would indicate there is a decline in the fair value that would be considered other than temporary. We recorded an impairment loss of $12.6 million related to one of our equity investments during the year ended December 31, 2015 (see "Equity Method Investment" section of Note 13 of this Form 10-K for additional information). We recorded no impairment charges to equity method or cost method investments for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2014.

(r)Asset Retirement Obligations
We recordThe Company records the fair value of a liability for an asset retirement obligation in the period in which it is incurred in Other Liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. When the liability is initially recorded, we capitalizethe Company capitalizes a cost by increasing the carrying amount of the related long-lived asset. In periods subsequent to initial measurement, changes in the liability for an asset retirement obligation resulting from revisions to either the timing or the amount of the original estimate of undiscounted cash flows are recognized.  Over time,the liability is accreted to its present value each period, and the capitalized cost is depreciated over the useful life of the related asset.  Upon settlement of the liability, wethe Company either settlesettles the obligation for itsrecorded amount or incurincurs a gain or loss upon settlement.

The majority of ourthe Company's asset retirement obligations are the estimated cost to remove telephony transmission equipment and support equipment from leased property.  Following is a reconciliation of thebeginning and ending aggregate carrying amounts of ourthe liability for asset retirement obligations (amounts in thousands):
Balance at December 31, 2014$31,940
Liability incurred2,048
Accretion expense1,121
Liability settled(49)
Balance at December 31, 201535,060
Liability incurred1,580
Revisions in estimated cash flows, including adjustment from tower transaction (Note 2)3,368
Accretion expense1,229
Liability settled(82)
Balance at December 31, 2016$41,155

During the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, we recorded additional capitalized costs of $4.9 million and $2.0 million, respectively, in Property and Equipment.
Balance at January1, 2018$
Liability acquired38,686
Liability incurred113
Accretion expense1,662
Liability settled
Balance at December 31, 2018$40,461

Certain of ourthe Company's network facilities are on property that requires usit to have a permit and the permit contains provisions requiring usthe Company to remove ourits network facilities in the event the permit is not renewed.  We expectThe Company expects to continually renew ourits permits and therefore cannot estimate any liabilities associated with such agreements.  A remote possibility exists that wethe Company would not be able to successfully renew a permit, which could result in usit incurring significant expense in complying with restoration or removal provisions.

(s)Revenue Recognition
All revenues are recognized when the earnings process is complete. Revenue recognition is as follows:
Revenues generated from long-distance service usage and plan fees, Internet service excess usage, and managed services are recognized when the services are provided,
We recognize unbilled revenues when the service is provided based upon minutes of use processed, and/or established rates, net of credits and adjustments,
Video service package fees, local access and Internet service plan fees, and data network revenues are billed in advance, recorded as Deferred Revenue on the balance sheet, and are recognized as the associated service is provided,
Certain of our wireless services offerings have been determined to be revenue arrangements with multiple deliverables. Revenues are recognized as each element is earned based on objective evidence regarding the relative fair value of each element and when there are no undelivered elements that are essential to the functionality of the delivered elements. Revenues generated from wireless service usage and plan fees are recognized when the services are provided. Revenues
GCI, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Intangible Assets

generated from the sale of wireless handsets and accessories are recognized when the amount is known and title to the handset and accessories passes to the customer. As the non-refundable, up-front activation fee charged to the customer does not meet the criteria as a separate unit of accounting, we allocate the additional arrangement consideration received from the activation fee to the handset (the delivered item) to the extent that the aggregate handset and activation fee proceeds do not exceed the fair value of the handset. Any activation fees not allocated to the handset would be deferred upon activation and recognized as service revenue on a straight-line basis over the expected customer relationship period,
We offer new and existing wireless customers the option to participate in Upgrade Now, a program that is described above in Note 1 of this Form 10-K. Upgrade Now is a multiple-element arrangement typically consisting of the trade-in right, handset, and one month of wireless service. At the inception of the arrangement, revenue is allocated between the separate units of accounting based upon each components' relative selling price on a standalone basis. This is subject to the requirement that revenue recognized is limited to the amounts already received from the customer that are not contingent on the delivery of additional products or services to the customer in the future. We recognize the full amount of the fair value of the trade-in right (not an allocated value) as a guarantee liability and the remaining allocable consideration is allocated to the handset and wireless service. We recognize revenue for the entire amount of the EIP receivable at the time of sale, net of the fair value of the trade-in right guarantee and imputed interest. See also in Note 1 of this Form 10-K additional information on guarantee liabilities and EIP receivables.
The majority of our non-wireless equipment sale transactions involve the sale of communications equipment with no other services involved. Such equipment is subject to standard manufacturer warranties and we do not manufacture any of the equipment we sell. In such instances, the customer takes title to the equipment generally upon delivery. We recognize revenue for such transactions when title passes to the customer and the revenue is earned and realizable. On certain occasions we enter into agreements to sell and satisfactorily install or integrate telecommunications equipment for a fixed fee. Customers may have refund rights if the installed equipment does not meet certain performance criteria. We defer revenue recognition until we have received customer acceptance per the contract or agreement, and all other required revenue recognition elements have been achieved. Revenues from contracts with multiple element arrangements, such as those including installation and integration services, are recognized as each element is earned based on objective evidence regarding the relative fair value of each element and when there are no undelivered elements that are essential to the functionality of the delivered elements,
Technical services revenues are derived primarily from maintenance contracts on equipment and are recognized on a prorated basis over the term of the contracts,
We account for fiber capacity Indefeasible Right to Use ("IRU") agreements as an operating lease or service arrangement and we defer the revenue and recognize it ratably over the life of the IRU or as service is rendered,
Access revenue is recognized when earned.  We participate in an intrastate access revenue pool with other telephone companies.  The pool is funded by access charges regulated by the Regulatory Commission of Alaska ("RCA") within the intrastate jurisdiction These revenues are subject to adjustment in future accounting periods as based upon adjustments made by all pool participants and Interexchange carrier customers. To the extent that a dispute arises over revenue settlements, our policy is to defer revenue recognition until the dispute is resolved,
We receive grant revenue for the purpose of building or operating communication infrastructure in rural areas.  We defer the revenue and recognize it over the life of the asset that was constructed using grant funds or the period of grant compliance,
We offer sales incentives to new and existing customers as motivation to purchase our products and services. Cash incentives are recorded as an offset to revenue while noncash incentives are recorded as an operating expense. Sales incentives that relate to a customer contract over a specific period of time are recognized using the straight-line method over the contract term. For sales incentives that are earned by the customer over a specific period of time, we accrue an estimated offset to revenue or expense amount over the period that the incentive is earned by the customer,
Other revenues are recognized when the service is provided.

Universal Service Fund
As an Eligible Telecommunications Carrier ("ETC"), we receive support from the Universal Service Fund ("USF") to support the provision of wireline local access and wireless service in high cost areas. On August
GCI, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

31, 2016, the FCC published a Report and Order to reform the methodology for distributing USF high cost support for both wireline and wireless voice and broadband service (“Alaska High Cost Order”).  The Alaska High Cost Order was a significant program change that required a reassessment of our high cost support revenue recognition.

Remote High Cost Support
Prior to the Alaska High Cost Order, we accrued estimated program revenue based on current line counts and the frozen per-line rates, reduced as needed by our estimate of the impact of the Statewide Support Cap. Additionally, we also considered our assessment of the impact of current FCC regulations and of the potential outcome of FCC proceedings.

As of January 1, 2017, Remote high cost support payments to Alaska High Cost participants will be frozen on a per-company basis at adjusted December 2014 levels for a ten-year term in exchange for meeting individualized performance obligations to offer voice and broadband services meeting the service obligations at specified minimum speeds by five-year and ten-year service milestones to a specified number of locations. Remote high cost support is no longer dependent upon line counts and line count filings are no longer required.

As a result of the Alaska High Cost Order, we apply the proportional performance revenue recognition method to account for the transition from accruals based on line counts to a fixed payment stream while our level of service provided and associated costs remain constant. Included in the calculation are the scheduled Remote high cost support payments from September 2016 through January 2027 net of our Remote accounts receivable balance at August 31, 2016. An equal amount of this result is recognized as Remote support revenue each period. In 2022, the FCC may redistribute support in areas with duplicative LTE service. We will account for any changes made by the FCC to redistribute support prospectively.

Urban High Cost Support
Prior to the Alaska High Cost Order, Urban high cost support payments were frozen and had phased down to 60% of the monthly average of the 2011 annual support. The Alaska High Cost Order mandates that as of January 1, 2017, Urban high cost support for 2017 and 2018 will be two-thirds and one-third of the December 2014 level of support received, respectively, with Urban high cost support ending effective December 31, 2018.

We apply the proportional performance revenue recognition method to account for the impact of the declining payments while our level of service provided and associated costs remain constant. Included in the calculation are the scheduled Urban high cost support payments from September 2016 through January 2018 net of our Urban accounts receivable balance at August 31, 2016. An equal amount of this result is recognized as Urban support revenue each period.

For both Remote and Urban high cost support revenue, our ability to collect our accrued USF support is contingent upon continuation of the USF program and upon our eligibility to participate in that program, which are subject to change by future regulatory, legislative or judicial actions. We adjust revenue and the account receivable in the period the FCC makes a program change or we assess the likelihood that such a change has increased or decreased revenue. We do not recognize revenue related to a particular service area until our ETC status has been approved by the RCA.

We recorded high cost support revenue under the USF program of $64.1 million, $66.2 million and $66.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.  At December 31, 2016, we have $43.9 million in high cost accounts receivable.

(t)Advertising Expense
We expense advertising costs in the period during which the first advertisement appears. Advertising expenses were $7.0 million, $5.7 million and $5.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

GCI, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(u)Leases
Scheduled operating lease rent increases are amortized over the expected lease term on a straight-line basis. Rent holidays are recognized on a straight-line basis over the operating lease term(including any rent holiday period).

Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of their economic lives or the lease term. We may amortize a leasehold improvement over a term that includes assumption of a lease renewal ifthe renewal is reasonably assured. Leasehold improvements acquired in a business combination are amortized over the shorter of the useful life of the assets or a term that includes required leaseperiods and renewals that are deemed to be reasonably assured at the date of acquisition. Leasehold improvements that are placed in service significantly after and are not contemplated at or near thebeginning of the lease term are amortized over the shorter of the useful life of the assets or a term that includes required lease periods and renewals that are deemed to be reasonably assured at the date the leasehold improvements are purchased. Leasehold improvements made by us and funded by landlord incentives or allowances under an operating lease are recorded as deferred rent and amortized as reductions to lease expense over the lease term.

(v)Interest Expense
Material interest costs incurred during the construction period of non-software capital projects are capitalized.  Interest costs incurred during the development period of a software capital project are capitalized.  Interest is capitalized in the period commencing with the first expenditure for a qualifying capital project and ending when the capital project is substantially complete and ready for its intended use. We capitalized interest costs of $3.7 million, $3.0 million and $3.6 million during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

(w)Income Taxes
GCI, Inc., as a wholly owned subsidiary and member of the GCI controlled group of corporations, files its income tax returns as part of the consolidated group of corporations under GCI. Accordingly, all discussions regarding income taxes reflect the consolidated group's activity. Our income tax expense and deferred income tax assets and liabilities are presented herein using the separate-entity method.

Income taxes are accounted for using the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for their future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financialstatement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable earningsin the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. A valuation allowance is recognized if it is more likely than not that some portion or the entire deferred tax assetwill not be realized.

(x)Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Total comprehensive income (loss) was equal to net income (loss) during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

(y)Share-based Payment Arrangements
Compensation expense is recognized in the financial statements for share-based awards based on the grant date fair value of those awards. Share-based compensation expense includes an estimate for pre-vesting forfeitures and is recognized over the requisite service periods of the awards on a straight-line basis, which is generally commensurate with the vesting term.

We are required to report the benefits associated with tax deductions in excess of recognized compensation cost as a financing cash flow rather than as an operating cash flow.

GCI, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(z)Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. By their nature, these judgments are subject to an inherent degree of uncertainty. These judgments are based on our historical experience, terms of existing contracts, observance of trends, and other factors, as appropriate. Additionally, changes in accounting estimates are reasonably likely to occur from period to period. These factors could have a material impact on our financial statements.

Significant estimates include, but are not limited to, the following: revenue recognition, impairment and useful lives of intangible assets, and the valuation allowance for net operating loss deferred tax assets.

(aa)Concentrations of Credit Risk
Financial instruments that potentially subject us to concentrations of credit risk are primarily cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivable. Excess cash is invested in high quality short-term liquid money instruments. At December 31, 2016, and 2015, substantially all of our cash and cash equivalents were invested in short-term liquid money instruments and the balances were in excess of Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insured limits.

Our customers are located primarily throughout Alaska. Because of this geographic concentration, our growth and operations depend upon economic conditions in Alaska.

(ab)Software Capitalization Policy
Internally used software, whether developed or purchased or developed,and installed as is, is capitalized and amortized using the straight-line method over an estimated useful life of three to five years. We capitalizeThe Company capitalizes certain costs associated with internally developed software such as payroll costs of employees devoting time to the projects, and external direct costs for materials and services.services, and interest costs incurred. Costs associated with internally developed software to be used internally are
GCI, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016

expensed until the point the project has reached the development stage. Subsequent additions, modifications or upgrades to internal-use software are capitalized only to the extent that they allow the software to perform a task it previously did not perform. Software maintenance and training costs are expensed in the period in which they are incurred. The capitalization of software requires judgment in determining when a project has reached the development stage.

The Company has Software as a Service ("SaaS") arrangements which are accounted for as service agreements, and are not capitalized. Internal and other third party costs for SaaS arrangements are expensed as incurred. Data migration costs for such arrangements are expensed consistent with the same type of costs for internally developed and modified software. Additionally, configuration costs paid to the vendor are recorded as a prepaid expense and expensed over the term of the SaaS arrangement.

Intangible assets with estimable useful lives are amortized over their respective estimated useful lives to their estimated residual values, and reviewed for impairment upon certain triggering events.  Intangible assets with estimable useful lives are being amortized over 1 to 20 year periods with a weighted-average life of 14 years.

Goodwill, cable certificates (certificates of convenience and public necessity), wireless licenses and other intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are not amortized, but instead are tested for impairment at least annually. Cable certificates represent certain perpetual operating rights to provide cable services. Wireless licenses represent the right to utilize certain radio frequency spectrum to provide wireless communications services. Goodwill represents the excess of cost over fair value of net assets acquired in connection with a business acquisition. The Company's annual impairment assessment of its indefinite-lived intangible assets is performed during the fourth quarter of each year.

In evaluating goodwill on a qualitative basis, the Company reviews the business performance of each reporting unit and evaluates other relevant factors as identified in the relevant accounting guidance to determine whether it was more likely than not that an indicated impairment exists for any of its reporting units. The Company considers whether there are any negative macroeconomic conditions, industry specific conditions, market changes, increased competition, increased costs in doing business, management challenges, the legal environments and how these factors might impact company specific performance in future periods. As part of the analysis the Company also considers fair value determinations for certain reporting units that have been made at various points throughout the current year and prior year for other purposes. If based on the qualitative analysis it is more likely than not that an impairment exists, the Company performs the quantitative impairment test.
The quantitative goodwill impairment test compares the estimated fair value of a reporting unit to its carrying value and to the extent the carrying value is greater than the fair value, the difference is recorded as an impairment in the consolidated statements of operations. Developing estimates of fair value requires significant judgments, including making assumptions about appropriate discount rates, perpetual growth rates, relevant comparable market multiples, public trading prices and the amount and timing of expected future cash flows. The cash flows employed in the Company's valuation analyses are based on management's best estimates considering current marketplace factors and risks as well as assumptions of growth rates in future years. There is no assurance that actual results in the future will approximate these forecasts.
The accounting guidance also permits entities to first perform a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is more likely than not that an indefinite-lived intangible asset, other than goodwill, is impaired. The accounting guidance also allows entities the option to bypass the qualitative assessment for any indefinite-lived intangible asset in any period and proceed directly to the quantitative impairment test. The entity may resume performing the qualitative assessment in any subsequent period. If the qualitative assessment supports that it is more likely than not that the carrying value of the Company’s indefinite-lived intangible assets, other than goodwill, exceeds its fair value, then a quantitative assessment is performed. If the carrying value of an indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.

See note 8 for information on impairments recorded during the year ended December 31, 2018.

Revenue Recognition

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the "FASB") issued new accounting guidance on revenue from contracts with customers. The Company adopted the new guidance, which established Accounting Standards Codification
(ac)Guarantees
GCI, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016

Topic 606 ("ASC 606"), effective January 1, 2018, under the modified retrospective transition method. The impact of the new guidance on Evite was not material to the consolidated financial statements. GCI Holdings adopted the new guidance prior to its acquisition by HoldCo. As a result, there was no impact to the Company’s consolidated financial statements related to GCI Holdings’ adoption of the new guidance.

Revenue is measured based on consideration specified in a contract with a customer and excludes any sales incentives and amounts collected on behalf of third parties. The Company recognizes revenue when it satisfies a performance obligation by transferring control over a product or service to a customer. Substantially all of the Company's revenue is earned from services transferred over time. If at contract inception the Company determines the time period between when it transfers a promised good or service to a customer and when the customer pays for that good or service is one year or less, the Company does not adjust the promised amount of consideration for the effects of a significant financing component.

Certain of ourthe Company's customers have guaranteed levels of service.  If an interruption in service occurs, we dothe Company does not recognize revenue for any portion of the monthly service fee that will be refunded to the customer or not billed to the customer due to these service level agreements.

Additionally, we have provided certain guaranteesTaxes assessed by a governmental authority that are both imposed on, and concurrent with, a specific revenue-producing transaction that are collected by the Company from a customer, are excluded from revenue from contracts with customers.

Nature of Services and Products

Wireless

Wireless revenue is generated by providing access to, U.S. Bancorp Community Development Corporation (“US Bancorp”), our tax credit investor in our four VIEs.  We have guaranteedand usage of the delivery of $56.0 million of New Markets Tax Credits (“NMTC”) to US Bancorp,Company's network, as well as certain loanthe sale of equipment. In general, access revenue is billed in advance, recorded as deferred revenue on the balance sheet, and management fee payments between our subsidiariesrecognized as the associated services are provided to the customer. Equipment sales revenue associated with the sale of wireless devices and accessories is generally recognized when the VIEs, for which weproducts are delivered to and control transfers to the primary beneficiary.  Incustomer. Consideration received from the event thatcustomer is allocated to the tax credits are not delivered or certain payments not made, we are obligated to provide promptservice and complete payment of these obligations.  See Note 13 of this Form 10-K for more information about our NMTC transactions.products based on stand-alone selling prices when purchased together.

EIP Trade-in Right
We offerNew and existing wireless customers have the option to participate in Upgrade Now, a device trade-in program "Upgrade Now", whichthat provides eligible customers with the ability to purchase certain wireless devices in installments over a specified-price trade-inperiod of up to 24 months. Participating customers have the right to trade-in the original equipment for a new device after making the equivalent of 12 monthly installment payments, provided their handset is in good working condition. Upon upgrade, their device. Participating customers must have purchased a financed device using anthe outstanding balance of the wireless equipment installment plan from usis exchanged for the used handset. The Company accounts for this upgrade option as a right of return with a reduction of Revenue and haveOperating expense for handsets expected to be upgraded based on historical data.

Data

Data revenue is generated by providing data network access, high-speed internet services, and product sales. Monthly service revenue for data network access and high-speed internet services is billed in advance, recorded as deferred revenue on the balance sheet, and recognized as the associated services are provided to the customer. Internet service excess usage revenue is recognized when the services are provided. The Company recognizes revenue for product sales when a qualifying monthly wireless service plan. Upon qualifying for an Upgrade Now device trade-in,customer takes possession of the customer's remaining EIP balance is settled provided they trade in their eligible used device in good working condition and purchase a new device from usequipment. The Company provides telecommunications engineering services on a new EIP.time and materials basis. Revenue is recognized for these services as-invoiced.

ForVideo

Video revenue is generated primarily from residential and business customers who enrollthat subscribe to the Company's cable video plans. Video revenue is billed in Upgrade Now, we deferadvance, recorded as deferred revenue on the portion of equipment sales revenue which representsbalance sheet, and recognized as the estimated value ofassociated services are provided to the trade-in right guarantee. The estimated value of the guarantees are based on various economic and customer behavioral assumptions, including the customer's estimatedcustomer.

 
GCI, INC.LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016
 

Voice

Voice revenue is for fixed monthly fees for voice plans as well as usage based fees for long-distance service usage. Voice plan fees are billed in advance, recorded as deferred revenue on the balance sheet, and recognized as the associated services are provided to the customer. Usage based fees are recognized as services are provided.

Arrangements with Multiple Performance Obligations

Contracts with customers may include multiple performance obligations as customers purchase multiple services and products within those contracts. For such arrangements, revenue is allocated to each performance obligation based on the relative standalone selling price for each service or product within the contract. Standalone selling prices are generally determined based on the prices charged to customers.

Significant Judgments

Some contracts with customers include variable consideration, and may require significant judgment to determine the total transaction price, which impacts the amount and timing of revenue recognized. The Company uses historical customer data to estimate the amount of variable consideration included in the total transaction price and reassess its estimate at each reporting period. Any change in the total transaction price due to a change in the estimated variable consideration is allocated to the performance obligations on the same basis as at contract inception. Any portion of a change in transaction price that is allocated to a satisfied or partially satisfied performance obligation is recognized as revenue (or a reduction in revenue) in the period of the transaction price change. Variable consideration has been constrained to reduce the likelihood of a significant revenue reversal.

Often contracts with customers include promises to transfer multiple products and services to a customer. Determining whether products and services are considered distinct performance obligations that should be accounted for separately versus together may require significant judgment.

Judgment is required to determine the standalone selling price for each distinct performance obligation. Services and products are generally sold separately, and help establish standalone selling price for services and products the Company provides.

Remaining Performance Obligations

The Company expects to recognize revenue in the future related to performance obligations that are unsatisfied (or partially unsatisfied) as of December 31, 2018 of $244.6 million in 2019, $219.3 million in 2020, $130.1 million in 2021, $85.4 million in 2022 and $23.4 million in 2023 and thereafter.

The Company applies certain practical expedients as permitted under ASC 606 and does not disclose information about remaining EIPperformance obligations that have original expected durations of one year or less, information about revenue remaining from usage based performance obligations that are recognized over time as-invoiced, or variable consideration allocated to wholly unsatisfied performance obligations.

Contract Balances

The Company had receivables of $198.8 million and deferred revenue of $31.7 million at December 31, 2018 from contracts with customers, which amounts exclude receivables and deferred revenue that are out of the scope of ASC 606. The Company's 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 the accompanying consolidated statements of operations as the services are provided. Changes in the contract liability balance for the Company during 2018 was not materially impacted by other factors.
Assets Recognized from the Costs to Obtain a Contract with a Customer

GCI, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016

Management expects that incremental commission fees paid to intermediaries as a result of obtaining customer contracts are recoverable and therefore the Company capitalizes them as contract costs.

Capitalized commission fees are amortized based on the transfer of goods or services to which the assets relate which typically range from two to five years, and are included in Selling, general, and administrative expenses.

The Company recognizes the incremental costs of obtaining contracts as an expense when incurred if the amortization period of the assets that the Company otherwise would have recognized is one year or less. These costs are included in Selling, general, and administrative expenses.

Revenue from contracts with customers, classified by customer type and significant service offerings follows:
 Year ended December 31, 2018
 amounts in thousands
GCI Holdings 
Consumer Revenue 
Wireless$63,482
Data223,121
Video16,786
Voice19,820
Business Revenue 
Wireless94,713
Data130,631
Video72,826
Voice14,791
Evite23,920
Lease, grant, and revenue from subsidies79,672
Total$739,762

Lease, Grant, and Revenue from Subsidies

Universal Service Fund

GCI Holdings receives support from each of the various Universal Service Fund ("USF") programs: high cost, low income, rural health care, and schools and libraries. The programs are subject to change by regulatory actions taken by the Federal Communications Commission ("FCC") or legislative actions, therefore, changes to the programs could result in a material decrease in revenue that the Company has recorded.  Revenue recognized from the programs was 23% of the Company's revenue for the year ended December 31, 2018.  The Company had USF net receivables of $91.3 million at trade-in,December 31, 2018.

Leases

Scheduled operating lease rent increases are amortized over the expected lease term on a straight-line basis. Rent holidays are recognized on a straight-line basis over the operating lease term (including any rent holiday period).

Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of their economic lives or the lease term. The Company may amortize a leasehold improvement over a term that includes assumption of a lease renewal if the renewal is reasonably assured. Leasehold improvements acquired in a business combination are amortized over the shorter of the useful life of the assets or a term that includes required lease periods and renewals that are deemed to be reasonably assured at the date of acquisition. Leasehold improvements that are placed in service significantly after and are not contemplated at or near the beginning of the
GCI, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016

lease term are amortized over the shorter of the useful life of the assets or a term that includes required lease periods and renewals that are deemed to be reasonably assured at the date the leasehold improvements are purchased. Leasehold improvements made by the Company and funded by landlord incentives or allowances under an operating lease are recorded as deferred rent and amortized as reductions to lease expense over the lease term.

Stock-Based Compensation

As more fully described in note 12, the Company has granted to certain directors, employees and employees of its subsidiaries, restricted shares ("RSAs"), restricted stock units ("RSUs") and options to purchase shares of GCI Liberty's common stock (collectively, "Awards"). The Company measures the cost of employee services received in exchange for an equity classified Award (such as stock options, RSAs and RSUs) based on the grant-date fair value of the used handset at trade-inAward, and recognizes that cost over the probabilityperiod 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 timing of a trade-in.

We assess facts and circumstances at each reporting date to determine if we need to adjust the guarantee liability. The recognition of subsequent adjustments to the guarantee liability as a result of these assessments are recorded as adjustments to revenue. When customers upgrade their devices, the difference between the trade-in credit to the customer andremeasures the fair value of the returned devicesAward at each reporting date.

Stock compensation expense was $28.2 million, $26.6 million and $16.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017, and 2016, respectively, included in selling, general and administrative expense in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations. In March 2016, the FASB issued new guidance which simplifies several aspects of the accounting for share-based payment award transactions, including the income tax consequences, forfeitures, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities, and classification on the statement of cash flows. The new standard is effective for the Company for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2016, with early application permitted. The Company adopted this guidance in the third quarter of 2016. In accordance with the new guidance, excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies are recognized as income tax benefit or expense rather than as additional paid-in capital. The Company has elected to recognize forfeitures as they occur rather than continue to estimate expected forfeitures. In addition, pursuant to the new guidance, excess tax benefits are classified as an operating activity on the consolidated statements of cash flows. The recognition of excess tax benefits and deficiencies are applied prospectively from January 1, 2016. For tax benefits that were not previously recognized and for adjustments to compensation cost based on actual forfeitures, the Company recorded againsta cumulative-effect adjustment in retained earnings as of January 1, 2016.

Income Taxes

The Company accounts for income taxes using the guarantee liabilities. Guaranteeasset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying value amounts and income tax basis of assets and liabilities and the expected benefits of utilizing net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. The deferred tax assets and liabilities are calculated using enacted tax rates in effect for each taxing jurisdiction in which the Company operates for the year in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. Net deferred tax assets are then reduced by a valuation allowance if the Company believes it more likely than not such net deferred tax assets will not be realized. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of an enacted change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.

When the tax law requires interest to be paid on an underpayment of income taxes, the Company recognizes interest expense from the first period the interest would begin accruing according to the relevant tax law. Such interest expense is included in Accrued Liabilitiesinterest expense in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.the accompanying consolidated statements of operations. Any accrual of penalties related to underpayment of income taxes on uncertain tax positions is included in other income (expense) in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.

(ad)Classification of Taxes Collected from Customers
We report sales, use, excise, and value added taxes assessed by a governmental authority that is directly imposed on a revenue-producing transaction between us and a customer on a net basis in our Consolidated Statements of Operations.  The following are certain surcharges reported on a gross basis in our Consolidated Statements of Operations (amounts in thousands):
Reclassifications
 Years Ended December 31,
 2016 2015 2014
Surcharges reported gross$3,849
 5,058
 4,252

(ae)Reclassifications
Reclassifications have been made to the prior years' consolidated financial statements to conform to classifications used in the current year.

Estimates
(2)Tower Sale and Leaseback
In August 2016, we sold
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to Vertical Bridge Towers II, LLC (“Vertical Bridge”) 276 cell sites (“Tower Sites”) in exchange for net proceedsmake estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of $90.8 million (“Tower Transaction”). The sale included, where applicable, the towers, the land on which the towers were situated if owned by us, the obligation to pay land leases,assets and other executory costs.
We entered into a master lease agreement in which we lease back spaceliabilities at the Tower Sites for an initial term of ten years, followed by the option to renew for eight additional five year periods, for a total possible lease term of 50 years. Each lease is subject to a 2% annual increase in lease payments throughout the lifedate of the initial leasefinancial statements and all subsequent lease renewals.
Prior to the Tower Transaction, we had the legal obligation to remove the towers upon termination of the land lease agreements. The obligation is now reduced to the removal of our equipment from the towers. Therefore, we have reduced our asset retirement obligation related to the Tower Sites by $3.4 million.
Per the master lease agreement, we have the right to cure land lease defaults on behalf of Vertical Bridge and have negotiated fixed rate lease renewals as described above. Due to this continuing involvement with the Tower Sites, we determined we were precluded from applying sale-leaseback accounting. We recorded a long-term financial obligation (“Tower Obligation”) in the amount of the net proceeds received and recognize interest on the Tower Obligation at a rate of 7.1% using the effective interest method. The Tower Obligation is increased by interest expense and amortized through contractual leaseback payments made by us to Vertical Bridge. Our historical tower site asset costs continue to be depreciated and reported in Net Property and Equipment.
The following table summarizes the impacts to the Consolidated Balance Sheets (amounts in thousands):
 December 31, 2016
Property and equipment (1)
$18,792
Tower obligation(2)
$87,653
(1) Property conveyed to Vertical Bridge as part of the Tower Transaction, but remains on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
(2) Excluding current portion and net of deferred transaction costs.

 
GCI, INC.LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016
 

Future minimum payments relatedamounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The Company considers (i) non-recurring fair value measurements of non-financial instruments and (ii) accounting for income taxes to the Tower Obligation, including expected renewals and excluding deferred transaction costs, are summarized below (amounts in thousands):
Years ending December 31,Total
2017$6,996
20187,136
20197,279
20207,425
20217,573
2022 and thereafter150,117
Total minimum payments186,526
Less amount representing interest96,722
Tower obligation$89,804

(3)Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Supplemental Disclosures
Changes in operating assets and liabilities consist of (amounts in thousands):
Year ended December 31,2016 2015 2014
(Increase) decrease in accounts receivable, net$(8,045) (4,230) 15,357
Increase in prepaid expenses(6,180) (632) (4,454)
(Increase) decrease in inventories(623) 5,710
 (6,631)
(Increase) decrease in other current assets(38) 24
 88
Increase in other assets(11,607) (11,491) (878)
Decrease in accounts payable(135) (5,579) (4,648)
Increase in deferred revenues2,446
 1,743
 1,728
Increase (decrease) in accrued payroll and payroll related obligations(979) (1,469) 2,997
Increase (decrease) in accrued liabilities(8,031) 8,192
 (242)
Increase (decrease) in accrued interest271
 1,869
 (434)
Decrease in subscriber deposits(325) (448) (114)
Increase (decrease) in long-term deferred revenue18,649
 (8,561) (4,163)
Increase (decrease) in components of other long-term liabilities(230) 1,305
 1,714
Total change in operating assets and liabilities$(14,827) (13,567) 320
be its most significant estimates.

The following itemsCompany has investments that are accounted for using the equity method. The Company does not control the decision making process or business management practices of these affiliates. Accordingly, the Company 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, the Company 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 the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

New Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted

In August 2018, the FASB issued new guidance which aligns the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred in a hosting arrangement that is a service contract with the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred to develop or obtain internal-use software. The guidance will be effective for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 (amountsCompany in thousands):
Net cash paid or received:2016 2015 2014
Interest paid, net of amounts capitalized$78,921
 76,696
 74,618
the first quarter of 2020 with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently assessing the impact that adopting this new accounting standard will have on its consolidated financial statements.

In February 2016, the FASB issued new accounting guidance on lease accounting. This guidance requires a company to recognize lease assets and lease liabilities arising from operating leases in the statement of financial position. Additionally, the criteria for classifying a lease as a finance lease versus an operating lease are substantially the same as the previous guidance. In January 2018, the FASB issued an additional amendment that provides a practical expedient that gives companies the option to not evaluate existing or expired land easements that were not previously accounted for as leases under the current leases guidance. The following itemsamendments in these updates are non-cash investingeffective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years, and financing activitiesearly adoption is permitted. The Company plans to adopt this guidance on January 1, 2019. The Company expects to adopt using the optional transitional method that allows for a cumulative effect adjustment in the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 (amounts in thousands):
 2016 2015 2014
Non-cash additions for purchases of property and equipment$36,854
 26,799
 42,958
Non-cash consideration for KKCC assets$13,993
 
 
Asset retirement obligation additions to property and equipment$4,948
 2,048
 4,268
Non-cash consideration for Wireless Acquisition$
 23,326
 
Net capital lease obligation$
 
 9,386
Distribution to non-controlling interest$
 
 4,167
Deferred compensation distribution denominated in shares$
 
 617
GCI, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements


(4)Receivables and Allowance for Doubtful Receivables
Receivables consistperiod of adoption without adjusting the comparative periods presented. Additionally, the Company currently expects to elect certain optional practical expedients under the transition guidance. The Company continues to assess the impact of the following at December 31, 2016new lease guidance with respect to its current operating and 2015 (amountscapital leases and specifically are reviewing the impact of a previous failed sale and leaseback tower transaction in thousands):
 2016 2015
Trade$218,491
 205,645
Other1,303
 2,739
Total receivables$219,794
 208,384

As described in Note 1order to determine the appropriate treatment upon transition to the new lease guidance. The Company has identified a technology solution to use for managing the population of leases identified and for making the necessary calculations. The Company continues to work with its consolidated subsidiaries to evaluate the impact of the adoption of this Form 10-K we receive support from eachnew guidance on its consolidated financial statements, including identifying the population of the various USF programs: high cost, low income, rural health care,leases and schools and libraries.  This support was 24%, 19%, and 19% of our revenue for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.  We had USF net receivables of $92.0 million and $98.1 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Changes in the allowance for doubtful receivables during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 are summarized below (amounts in thousands):
   Additions Deductions  
DescriptionBalance at beginning of year Charged to costs and expenses Charged to other accounts Write-offs net of recoveries Balance at end of year
December 31, 2016$3,630
 8,516
 
 7,739
 4,407
December 31, 2015$4,542
 6,359
 
 7,271
 3,630
December 31, 2014$2,346
 3,994
 
 1,798
 4,542
collecting lease data.

 
GCI, INC.LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016
 

(3) Supplemental Disclosures to Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

 Years ended December 31,
 2018 2017 2016
 amounts in thousands
Cash paid for acquisition:     
Property and equipment$1,211,392
 
 
Intangible assets not subject to amortization1,538,544
 
 
Intangible assets subject to amortization468,737
 
 
Receivables and other assets254,436
 
 
Liabilities assumed(1,902,714) 
 
Deferred tax assets (liabilities)(276,683) 
 
Fair value of equity consideration(1,441,669) 
 
Cash paid (received) for acquisitions, net of cash acquired$(147,957) 
 
      
Cash paid for interest, net of amounts capitalized$120,726
 6
 
      
Non-cash additions for purchases of property and equipment$15,916
 
 

In November 2016, the FASB issued a new accounting standard which requires that the statement of cash flows include restricted cash and cash equivalents when reconciling beginning and ending cash. The guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2017. The Company adopted this new guidance effective January 1, 2018. Upon adoption, the Company added restricted cash to the reconciliation of beginning and ending cash and cash equivalents and included a reconciliation of total cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash to the balance sheet for each period presented in the consolidated statements of cash flows. The following table reconciles cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash reported in the Company's consolidated balance sheets to the total amount presented in its consolidated statements of cash flows:
 Years ended December 31,
 2018 2017 2016
 amounts in thousands
Cash and cash equivalents$170,741
 573,210
 487,163
Restricted cash included in other current assets775
 938
 964
Total cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period$171,516
 574,148
 488,127

(4) Acquisition

GCI, LLC's parent company, GCI Liberty was acquired on March 9, 2018. The acquisition of our parent company was accounted for as a reverse acquisition. Under this method, HoldCo is the acquirer of our parent company and is also considered the acquirer of GCI, LLC. We have elected to apply pushdown accounting given there was a change-in-control event related to our parent company. We have reflected the new basis of accounting established by our parent company for the individual assets and liabilities that were acquired by HoldCo using the acquisition method of accounting. The acquisition price was $1.4 billion (level 1). The application of the acquisition method resulted in the assignment of purchase price to the GCI, LLC assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on preliminary estimates of their acquisition date fair values (primarily level 3). The assets acquired and liabilities assumed, and as discussed within this note, are those assets and liabilities of GCI, LLC prior to the completion of the acquisition by HoldCo. The determination of the fair values of the acquired assets and liabilities (and the determination of estimated lives of depreciable tangible and identifiable intangible assets) requires significant judgment.
(5)
Net PropertyGCI, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and Equipment2016
Net
The preliminary acquisition price allocation for GCI, LLC is as follows (amounts in thousands):
   
Cash and cash equivalents including restricted cash $147,957
Receivables 171,014
Property and equipment 1,211,392
Goodwill 966,044
Intangible assets not subject to amortization 572,500
Intangible assets subject to amortization 468,737
Other assets 83,422
Deferred revenue (92,561)
Debt, including capital leases (1,632,002)
Other liabilities (171,151)
Deferred income tax liabilities (276,683)
Non-controlling interest (7,000)
  $1,441,669

Goodwill is calculated as the excess of the consideration transferred over the identifiable net assets acquired and represents the future economic benefits expected to arise from other intangible assets acquired that do not qualify for separate recognition, including assembled workforce, value associated with future customers, continued innovation and non-contractual relationships. Amortizable intangible assets of $468.7 million were acquired and are comprised of a tradename with an estimated useful life of approximately 10 years, customer relationships with a weighted average useful life of approximately 16 years and right-to-use assets with a weighted average useful life of 8 years. Approximately $170.0 million of the acquired goodwill will be deductible for income tax purposes. As of December 31, 2018, the determination of the estimated acquisition date fair value of the acquired assets and assumed liabilities is preliminary and subject to revision. The primary areas of the Company's acquisition price allocation that changed from the initial allocation recorded in the Company's March 31, 2018 financial statements relate to a decrease in receivables of $13.7 million, an increase in property and equipment consists of $16.3 million, an increase to intangible assets not subject to amortization of $9.5 million, a decrease to intangible assets subject to amortization of $75.2 million, an increase in deferred revenue of $15.6 million, a decrease in other liabilities of $21.4 million, a decrease in deferred income tax liabilities of $15.6 million, and an increase to goodwill of $41.4 million. The acquisition date fair values related to certain assets, liabilities and tax balances associated with the following at December 31, 2016 and 2015 (amounts in thousands):
 2016 2015
Land and buildings$114,966
 108,145
Telephony transmission equipment and distribution facilities1,271,425
 1,215,796
Cable transmission equipment and distribution facilities231,539
 218,259
Studio equipment15,456
 15,171
Support equipment and systems290,209
 251,302
Transportation equipment23,674
 17,398
Customer premise equipment158,513
 155,971
Fiber optic cable systems351,460
 309,217
Construction in progress157,633
 93,271
 2,614,875
 2,384,530
Less accumulated depreciation1,385,620
 1,231,457
Less accumulated amortization on property and equipment under capital leases67,337
 58,692
Net property and equipment$1,161,918
 1,094,381
    
Gross property and equipment under capital leases$112,495
 112,495
support GCI Holdings receives from various USF programs have not been finalized.

KKCC Asset Acquisition
In November 2016, we acquired Kodiak-Kenai Cable Company, LLC ("KKCC") which through its wholly owned subsidiary ownsSince the only low latency redundant fiber link between Anchorage, the Kenai Peninsula and Kodiak. We adopted ASU 2017-01, which allows us to treat the acquisition of KKCC as an asset acquisition.

Total consideration transferred to the previous owners of KKCC consisted of a cash payment of $19.7 million and the fair market value of $14.0 million for indefeasible right-to-use capacity that we owned on the KKCC fiber system ("IRU Capacity") that was terminated as a result of the acquisition. The IRU Capacity included as consideration was adjusted to fair value asdate of the acquisition, date resultingincluded in a $3.1 million gain recorded in Other Income (Expense) in our Consolidated Statement of Operationsnet earnings (loss) attributable to the GCI, LLC member for the year ended December 31, 2016.2018 is $307.9 million in losses related to GCI Holdings. The unaudited pro forma revenue and net earnings of GCI, LLC, prepared utilizing the historical financial statements of HoldCo, giving effect to acquisition accounting related adjustments made at the time of acquisition, as if the acquisition discussed above occurred on January 1, 2017, are as follows:
  Years Ended December 31,
  2018 2017
  amounts in thousands
Revenue $899,210
 918,726
Net earnings (loss) $(913,936) 749,959
Net earnings (loss) attributable to GCI, LLC member $(913,469) 750,464

We allocated the total consideration transferredThe pro forma results include adjustments directly attributable to the business combination including adjustments related to the amortization of acquired tangible and intangible assets, revenue, interest expense, stock-based compensation, and the exclusion of transaction related costs; the impact of the FCC's decision to reduce rates paid to the Company under the Rural Health Care Program; and the new revenue standard. The pro forma information is not representative of the Company’s future results of operations nor does it reflect what the Company’s results of operations would have been if the acquisition had occurred previously and the Company consolidated the results of GCI, LLC during the periods presented.

GCI, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016

(5) Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value

For assets and liabilities assumed based onrequired 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 relativereporting entity has the ability to access at the measurement date. Level 2 inputs, other than quoted market prices included within Level 1, are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability. The Company does not have any recurring assets or liabilities measured at fair value. value that would be considered Level 3.

The following table summarizes the allocation of total consideration (amounts in thousands):
Company’s assets and liabilities measured at fair value are as follows:
Allocation of consideration to assets acquired and liabilities assumed: 
Property and equipment$49,794
Deferred taxes(12,211)
Deferred revenue(3,815)
Total consideration$33,768
  December 31, 2018 December 31, 2017
Description Total 
Quoted prices
in active
markets
for identical
assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant
other
observable
inputs
(Level 2)
 Total 
Quoted prices
in active
markets
for identical
assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant
other
observable
inputs
(Level 2)
  amounts in thousands
Cash equivalents $66,348
 66,348
 
 570,526
 570,526
 
Equity securities $1,529,901
 1,529,901
 
 1,800,208
 1,800,208
 
Investment in Liberty Broadband $3,074,373
 3,074,373
 
 3,634,786
 3,634,786
 
Variable forward $20,340
 
 20,340
 94,807
 
 94,807
    
(6)Intangible Assets and Goodwill
AsOn June 6, 2017, Qurate Retail purchased an additional 450,000 LendingTree shares and executed a 2‑year variable forward with respect to 642,850 LendingTree shares. The variable forward was executed at the LendingTree closing price on June 6, 2017 of October 31, 2016, cable certificates, wireless licenses, broadcast licenses$170.70 per share and goodwill were tested for impairmenthas a floor price of $128.03 per share and we determined that these intangible assets were not impaired at December 31, 2016.a cap price of $211.67 per share. The remaining useful lives of our cable certificates, wireless licenses, broadcast licenses and goodwill were evaluated as of October 31, 2016, and events and circumstances continue to support an indefinite useful life.  There are no indicators of impairment of our intangible assets subject to amortizationliability associated with this instrument is included in the Other current liabilities line item as of December 31, 2016.2018 and Other liabilities line item as of December 31, 2017 in the consolidated balance sheets. The fair value of the variable forward was derived from a Black‑Scholes‑Merton model using observable market data as the significant inputs.

Realized and Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Financial Instruments, net

Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on financial instruments, net are comprised of changes in the fair value of the following:
  Years ended December 31,
  2018 2017 2016
  amounts in thousands
Equity securities $(274,393) 258,629
 547,921
Investment in Liberty Broadband (560,413) 473,342
 761,444
Variable forward 75,970
 (94,807) NA
  $(758,836) 637,164
 1,309,365

GCI, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016

(6) Investments in Equity Securities

Investments in equity securities, the majority of which are carried at fair value, are summarized as follows:
   December 31,
   2018 2017
   amounts in thousands
Charter (a)  $1,526,984
 1,800,208
Other investments (b)  6,533
 2,856
   $1,533,517
 1,803,064
(a) A portion of the Charter equity securities are considered covered shares and subject to certain contractual restrictions in accordance with the indemnification agreement entered into by GCI Liberty. Pursuant to the indemnification agreement, GCI Liberty has agreed to indemnify LI LLC for certain payments made to a holder of LI LLC 1.75% exchangeable debentures due 2046.
(b) The Company has elected the measurement alternative for a portion of these securities.

(7) Investments in Affiliates Accounted for Using the Equity Method

Investment in LendingTree

The Company 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 December 31, 2018 and the carrying amount at December 31, 2017:
 December 31, 2018 December 31, 2017
 
Percentage
ownership
 
Market
value
 
Carrying
amount
 
Carrying
amount
   dollars in thousands
LendingTree (a)26.6% $756,197
 $174,002
 114,655
Othervarious
 NA
 3,028
 
     $177,030
 114,655
        
(a) Both the Company's ownership interest in LendingTree and the Company's share of LendingTree's earnings (losses) are reported on a three month lag. The market value disclosed is as of December 31, 2018.

The Company’s share of LendingTree’s earnings (losses) was $21.1 million, $7.0 million, and $11.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017, and 2016, respectively.

Investment in Liberty Broadband

On May 18, 2016, Qurate Retail completed a $2.4 billion investment in Liberty Broadband Series C non-voting shares (for accounting purposes a related party of the Company) in connection with the merger of Charter and Time Warner Cable Inc. ("TWC"). The proceeds of this investment were used by Liberty Broadband to fund, in part, its acquisition of $5 billion of stock in the new public parent company, Charter, of the combined enterprises. Qurate Retail, along with third party investors, all of whom invested on the same terms as Qurate Retail, purchased newly issued shares of Liberty Broadband Series C common stock at a per share price of $56.23, which was determined based upon the fair value of Liberty Broadband’s net assets on a sum‑of‑the parts basis at the time the investment agreements were executed (May 2015). Qurate Retail, as part of the merger described above, exchanged, in a tax‑free transaction, its shares of TWC common stock for shares of Charter Class A common stock, on a one‑for‑one basis, and Qurate Retail granted to Liberty Broadband a proxy and a right of first refusal with respect to the shares of Charter Class A common stock held by Qurate Retail following the exchange, which proxy and right of first refusal was assigned to GCI Liberty in connection with the completion of the Transactions.

As of December 31, 2018, the Company has a 23.5% economic ownership interest in Liberty Broadband. Due to overlapping boards of directors and management, the Company has been deemed to have significant influence over Liberty
GCI, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016

Broadband for accounting purposes, even though the Company does not have any voting rights. The Company has elected to apply the fair value option for its investment in Liberty Broadband (Level 1) as it is believed that investors value this investment based on the trading price of Liberty Broadband. The Company recognizes changes in the fair value of its investment in Liberty Broadband in realized and unrealized gains (losses) on financial instruments, net in the consolidated statements of operations. Summarized financial information for Liberty Broadband is as follows:
  December 31,
  2018 2017
  amounts in thousands
Current assets $84,574
 84,054
Investment in Charter, accounted for using the equity method 12,004,376
 11,835,613
Other assets 9,487
 12,122
Total assets 12,098,437
 11,931,789
Long-term debt 522,928
 497,370
Deferred income tax liabilities 965,829
 932,593
Other liabilities 11,062
 14,925
Equity 10,598,618
 10,486,901
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $12,098,437
 11,931,789
  Years ended December 31,
  2018 2017 2016
  amounts in thousands
Revenue $22,256
 13,092
 30,586
Operating expenses, net (34,270) (38,570) (51,746)
Operating income (loss) (12,014) (25,478) (21,160)
Share of earnings (losses) of affiliates 166,146
 2,508,991
 641,544
Gain (loss) on dilution of investment in affiliate (43,575) (17,872) 770,766
Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on financial instruments, net 3,659
 3,098
 94,122
Other income (expense), net (22,339) (18,139) (9,600)
Income tax benefit (expense) (21,924) (416,933) (558,369)
Net earnings (loss) $69,953
 2,033,667
 917,303

(8) Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Goodwill and Indefinite Lived Assets

Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill are as follows:
  GCI Holdings Corporate and other Total
  amounts in thousands
Balance at January 1, 2018 $
 25,569
 25,569
Acquisitions 966,044
 
 966,044
Impairment (147,431) 
 (147,431)
Balance at December 31, 2018 $818,613
 25,569
 844,182

As presented in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets, cable certificates and wireless licenses are the other significant indefinite lived intangible asset.

 
GCI, INC.LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016
 

Other Intangible Assets subjectSubject to amortization include the following at December 31, 2016 and 2015 (amounts in thousands):
Amortization
 20162015
Software license fees$80,839
63,760
Rights to use45,114
44,937
Customer relationships1,530
1,530
Right-of-way784
784
 128,267
111,011
Less accumulated amortization53,823
41,721
Net other intangible assets$74,444
69,290
  December 31, 2018
     Gross         Net
  carrying Accumulated carrying
  amount amortization amount
  amounts in thousands
Customer relationships $408,267
 (55,417) 352,850
Other amortizable intangibles 122,759
 (39,603) 83,156
Total $531,026
 (95,020) 436,006

Changes in Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets are as follows (amounts in thousands):
 GoodwillOther Intangible Assets
Balance at December 31, 2014$229,560
66,015
Goodwill addition from acquisitions - Wireline Segment9,703

Asset additions
15,023
Software impairment
(1,306)
Amortization expense
(10,442)
Balance at December 31, 2015239,263
69,290
Asset additions
17,601
Amortization expense
(12,447)
Balance at December 31, 2016$239,263
74,444

Amortization expense for definite-life intangible assets with finite useful lives was $53.5 million for the yearsyear ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 follow (amounts in thousands):
 Years Ended December 31,
 2016 2015 2014
Amortization expense$12,447
 10,442
 9,715

Amortized intangible assets are definite-life assets, and as such, we record amortization expense based on a method that most appropriately reflects our expected cash flows from these assets. Intangible assets that have finite useful lives are amortized over their useful lives using the straight-line method with a weighted-average life of 13.3 years.

2018. Amortization expense for definite-lifeamortizable intangible assets for each of the five succeeding fiscal years is estimated to be (amounts in thousands):
Years Ending December 31,  
2017$11,213
2018$9,191
2019$6,686
$59,790
2020$4,904
$49,892
2021$3,150
$39,548
2022$34,428
2023$32,341

Impairments

Due to unanticipated program revenue changes and certain other market factors impacting GCI Holdings operating results, impairment losses of $147 million and $65 million were recorded during the year ended December 31, 2018 related to goodwill and cable certificates, respectively, related to the GCI Holdings reporting unit. The fair value of the cable certificates and the GCI Holdings reporting unit was determined using an income approach (Level 3). As of December 31, 2018, the GCI Holdings and Corporate and Other segments have accumulated goodwill impairment losses of $147 million and $56 million, respectively.

Based on the quantitative assessment performed during the fourth quarter and the resulting impairment losses recorded, the estimated fair values of the cable certificates and the GCI Holdings reporting unit do not significantly exceed their carrying values as of December 31, 2018.

 
GCI, INC.LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016
 

(7)Long-Term Debt
(9) Debt

Debt is summarized as follows:
  Outstanding  
     Principal Carrying Value
  December 31, December 31, December 31,
  2018 2018 2017
  amounts in thousands
Margin Loan Facility $900,000
 900,000
 
Senior notes 775,000
 803,287
 NA
Senior credit facility 715,124
 715,124
 NA
Wells Fargo note payable 7,554
 7,554
 NA
Deferred financing costs 
 (2,267) 
Total debt $2,397,678
 2,423,698
 
Debt classified as current, net of deferred financing costs   (900,759) 
Total long-term debt   $1,522,939
 

Margin Loan

On December 29, 2017, Broadband Holdco, a wholly owned subsidiary of, at such time, Qurate Retail, and now the Company, entered into a margin loan agreement with various lender parties consisting of a term loan in an aggregate principal amount of $1 billion (the “Margin Loan”). Approximately 42,681,842 shares of Liberty Broadband Series C common stock were previously pledged by Broadband Holdco, LLC as collateral for the loan. The Margin Loan had a term of two years with an interest rate of LIBOR plus 1.85% and an undrawn commitment fee of up to 1.0% per annum. Deferred financing costs incurred on the Margin Loan are reflected in Long-term debt, consistsnet in the consolidated balance sheet. In connection with the completion of the following (amounts in thousands):
         December 31,
 Issue Date Interest Rate Principal Payments Maturity Date 2016 2015
Senior Credit Facility - Term Loan BNovember 17, 2016 LIBOR plus 3.00% 0.25% of the original principal due quarterly 
February 2, 20221
 $245,187
 272,937
Senior Credit Facility - Term Loan ANovember 17, 2016 
LIBOR plus applicable margin2
 Due at maturity 
November 17, 20211
 215,000
 240,000
Senior Credit Facility - RevolverNovember 17, 2016 
LIBOR plus applicable margin2
 Due at maturity 
November 17, 20211
 55,000
 
2025 NotesApril 1, 2015 6.875% Due at maturity 
April 15, 20253
 450,000
 450,000
2021 NotesMay 20, 2011 6.75% Due at maturity 
June 1, 20214
 325,000
 325,000
Wells Fargo noteJune 30, 2014 LIBOR plus 2.25% Monthly installments July 15, 2029 8,596
 9,176
Total Debt 1,298,783
 1,297,113
Less unamortized discount 3,518
 3,817
Less unamortized deferred loan fees 15,133
 15,368
Less current portion of long-term debt 3,326
 3,342
Long-term debt, net $1,276,806
 1,274,586
1The Senior Credit Facility will mature on December 3, 2020 if our 2021 Notes are not refinanced prior to such date.
2Applicable margin is based on the company’s leverage ratio and ranges from 2.00% to 3.00%. Our Senior Credit Facility Total Leverage Ratio (as defined) may not exceed 5.95 to one; the Senior Leverage Ratio (as defined) may not exceed 3.00 to one; and our Interest Coverage Ratio (as defined) must not be less than 2.50 to one at any time.
3The notes are redeemable at our option, in whole or in part, at a redemption price defined in the 2025 Notes agreement, and accrued and unpaid interest (if any) to the date of redemption.
4The notes are redeemable at our option, in whole or in part, at a redemption price defined in the 2021 Notes agreement, and accrued and unpaid interest (if any) to the date of redemption.

(a)Senior Credit Facility
In November 2016, we amended our Senior Credit Facility. We paid loanTransactions, Broadband Holdco borrowed the full principal amount of the Margin Loan. A portion of the proceeds of the Margin Loan were used to make a distribution to Qurate Retail of $1.1 billion to be used within one year for the repurchase of QVC Group stock (now the Qurate Retail common stock) or to pay down certain debt at Qurate Retail, and for the payment of fees and other costs and expenses, in each case, pursuant to the terms of $0.2the reorganization agreement. The distributed loan proceeds constituted a portion of the cash reattributed to the QVC Group.

On October 5, 2018 (the “Closing Date”), Broadband Holdco entered into Amendment No. 1 (the “Amendment”) to the Margin Loan (the “Margin Loan Agreement”). Pursuant to the Amendment, lenders under the Margin Loan have agreed to, among other things, provide commitments (the “Revolving Commitments”) for a new revolving credit facility in an aggregate principal amount of up to $200.0 million that(the “Revolving Credit Facility” and, the loans thereunder, the “Revolving Loans”). The Revolving Credit Facility established under the Margin Loan Agreement is in addition to the existing term loan credit facility under the Margin Loan Agreement (the “Term Loan Facility” and, together with Revolving Credit Facility, the “Margin Loan Facility” and the loans thereunder, the “Loans”). After giving effect to the initial borrowing of Revolving Loans and Term Loan Prepayment (as defined below) on the Closing Date, $800.0 million of loans under the Term Loan Facility were expensed immediatelyoutstanding and $200.0 million of Revolving Loans were outstanding. Subsequent to the Closing Date, the Company repaid $100.0 million of the Revolving Credit Facility. The Amendment also amends certain covenants in our Consolidated Statementthe Margin Loan to permit, among other things, a designated GCI Liberty subsidiary to enter into a subordinated revolving note with GCI Liberty and certain additional investments. Approximately 42,681,842 shares of OperationsLiberty Broadband Series C common stock with a value of $3.1 billion were pledged by Broadband Holdco, LLC as collateral for the year ended December 31, 2016 and $3.9 million that were deferred and are being amortized over the life of the Senior Credit Facility. We recorded a $0.6 million loss on extinguishment of debt in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2016 as part of this amendment.

We had a $55.0 million outstanding balance and $21.0 million in letters of credit under the $200.0 million Senior Credit Facility Revolver at December 31, 2016, which leaves $124.0 million available for borrowingloan as of December 31, 2016.2018.

(b)2025 Notes and 2021 Notes
InterestBroadband Holdco is permitted to use the proceeds of the Revolving Loans for any purpose not prohibited under the Margin Loan, including, without limitation, (i) to make dividends and distributions, (ii) for the purchase of margin stock, (iii) to make investments not prohibited under the Margin Loan, (iv) to repay an intercompany loan to GCI Liberty, and/or (v) otherwise for general corporate purposes, including, without limitation, for payment of interest and fees and other costs and expenses. On the Closing Date, Broadband Holdco drew down on the notes is payable semi-annually in arrears.
Upon the occurrence of a change of control, each holder of the 2025 and 2021 Notes will have the right to require us to purchase all or any part of such holder’s 2025 or 2021 Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount of such notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest on such notes, if any.  If we or certain of our subsidiaries engage in asset sales, we must generally either invest the net cash proceeds from such sales in our business within a period of time, prepay debt under any outstanding credit facility, or make an offer to purchase a principalfull amount of the notes equalcommitments under the Revolving Credit Facility and applied all of the proceeds to prepay, on the excess net cash proceeds, withClosing Date, a portion of the purchase price equal to 100% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.

In conjunction withloans outstanding under the issuance of our 2025 Notes and the repayment of our 2019 Notes, we recorded a $27.7 million loss on extinguishment of debt in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2015.

Term Loan Facility (the “Term Loan Prepayment”).
 
GCI, INC.LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016
 

(c)Covenants

The Loans will mature on December 29, 2019 (the “maturity date”) and accrue interest at a rate equal to the 3-month LIBOR rate plus a per annum spread of 1.85%, subject to certain conditions and exceptions. Undrawn Revolving Commitments shall be available to Broadband Holdco from the Closing Date to but excluding the earlier of (i) the date that is one month prior to the maturity date and (ii) the date of the termination of such Revolving Commitments pursuant to the terms of the Margin Loan. The obligations under the Revolving Credit Facility, together with the obligations under Term Loan Facility, are secured by first priority liens on the shares of Liberty Broadband owned by Broadband Holdco and certain other cash collateral provided by Broadband Holdco. In addition, the Revolving Credit Facility and the Term Loan Facility are subject to the same affirmative and negative covenants and events of default.

Senior Notes

Interest on the 6.75% Senior Notes due 2021 (the "2021 Notes") and the 6.875% Senior Notes due 2025, both of which were issued by GCI, Inc., which is now GCI, LLC (collectively, the “Senior Notes”), is payable semi-annually in arrears. The Senior Notes are redeemable at the Company's option, in whole or in part, at a redemption price defined in the respective indentures, and accrued and unpaid interest (if any) to the date of redemption. The Senior Notes are stated net of an aggregate unamortized premium of $28.3 million at December 31, 2018. Such premium is being amortized to interest expense in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations. As of December 31, 2018, GCI, LLC exceeded the maximum leverage threshold, as measured by the terms of its Senior Notes, and therefore does not have access to any additional funding under the revolving portion of the Senior Credit Facility, as defined below.

Senior Credit Facility

On December 27, 2018, GCI, LLC amended and restated the Fifth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of March 9, 2018 and refinanced the revolving credit facility and term loan A with a new revolving credit facility, leaving the existing Term Loan B in place (the "Senior Credit Facility"). The Senior Credit Facility provide a $240.7 million term loan B ("Term Loan B") and a $550.0 million revolving credit facility. GCI Liberty contributed $50.0 million to GCI Holdings in connection with the refinancing of the Senior Credit Facility.

GCI, LLC's Senior Credit Facility Total Leverage Ratio (as defined in the Senior Credit Facility) may not exceed 6.50 to one and the Secured Leverage Ratio (as defined in the Senior Credit Facility) may not exceed 4.00 to one.

The revolving credit facility borrowings that are LIBOR loans bear interest at a per annum rate equal to the applicable LIBOR plus a margin that varies between 1.50% and 2.75% depending on the total leverage ratio. The full principal revolving credit facility included in the Senior Credit Facility will mature on December 27, 2023 or December 3, 2020 if the 2021 Notes are not refinanced prior to such date.

The interest rate for the Term Loan B is LIBOR plus 2.25%. The Term Loan B requires principal payments of 0.25% of the original principal amount on the last day of each calendar quarter with the full amount maturing on February 2, 2022 or December 3, 2020 if the Company's 2021 Notes are not refinanced prior to such date.

The terms of the Senior Credit Facility include customary representations and warranties, customary affirmative and negative covenants and customary events of default. At any time after the occurrence of an event of default under the Senior Credit Facility, the lenders may, among other options, declare any amounts outstanding under the Senior Credit Facility immediately due and payable and terminate any commitment to make further loans under the Senior Credit Facility. The obligations under the Senior Credit Facility are secured by a security interest on substantially all of the assets of our wholly owned subsidiary, GCI Holdings Inc. and the subsidiary guarantors, as defined in the Senior Credit Facility, and on the stock of GCI Holdings, Inc. The Wells Fargo noteHoldings.

As of December 31, 2018, there is subject to similar affirmative and negative covenants as$240.1 million outstanding under the Term Loan B, $475.0 million outstanding under the revolving portion of the Senior Credit Facility and is secured by a security interest and lien on$10.1 million in letters of credit under the building purchased with the funds.

The 2025 and 2021 Note covenants restrict us and certain of our subsidiaries from incurring additional debt or entering into sale and leaseback transactions; paying dividends or distributions on capital stock or repurchase capital stock; issuing stock of subsidiaries; making certain investments; creating liens on assets to secure debt; entering into transactions with affiliates; merging or consolidating with another company; and transferring and selling assets. Limitations and exceptions to note covenants and events of default are described in the 2025 Notes and 2021 Notes indentures.

We were in compliance with all covenants required by our notes and Senior Credit Facility, which leaves $64.9 million available for borrowing when GCI, LLC meets the maximum leverage threshold, as measured by the terms of December 31, 2016.

Maturities of long-term debt as of December 31, 2016 are as follows (amounts in thousands):
Years ending December 31, 
2017$3,326
20183,344
20193,362
20203,380
2021598,399
2022 and thereafter686,972
Total debt1,298,783
Less unamortized discount3,518
Less unamortized deferred loan fees15,133
Less current portion of long-term debt3,326
Long-term debt, net$1,276,806

(8)Income Taxes
Total income tax expense of $7.1 million, $0.1 million and $10.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively, was allocated to income (loss) in each year. Income tax expense consists of the following (amounts in thousands):
 Years Ended December 31,
 2016 2015 2014
Deferred tax expense (benefit):     
Federal taxes$6,058
 290
 9,081
State taxes1,022
 (209) 948
 $7,080
 81
 10,029
its Senior Notes.

 
GCI, INC.LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016
 

Total income tax expense differed fromWells Fargo Note Payable

GCI Holdings issued a note to Wells Fargo that matures on July 15, 2029 and is payable in monthly installments of principal and interest (the "Wells Fargo Note Payable"). The interest rate is variable at one month LIBOR plus 2.25%.

The note is subject to similar affirmative and negative covenants as the “expected” income tax expense (benefit) determinedSenior Credit Facility. The obligations under the note are secured by applyinga security interest and lien on the statutory federal income tax ratebuilding purchased with the note.

Debt Covenants

GCI, LLC is subject to covenants and restrictions under its Senior Notes and Senior Credit Facility. The Company and GCI, LLC are in compliance with all debt maintenance covenants as of 35%December 31, 2018.

Five Year Maturities

The annual principal maturities of debt, based on stated maturity dates, for each of the next five years is as follows (amounts in thousands):
 Years Ended December 31,
 2016 2015 2014
“Expected” statutory tax expense (benefit)$1,891
 (3,482) 24,246
Nondeductible officer compensation1,424
 1,906
 1,351
Nondeductible lobbying expenses1,192
 442
 425
Nondeductible entertainment expenses1,029
 1,059
 1,125
State income tax expense (benefit), net of federal expense (benefit)1,022
 (209) 948
Impact of non-controlling interest attributable to non-tax paying entity
 (220) (18,255)
Other, net522
 585
 189
 $7,080
 $81
 $10,029
2019$902,934
2020713,163
2021325,524
2022549
2023575
2024 and thereafter454,933
Total debt$2,397,678

Fair Value of Debt

The fair value of the Senior Notes was $763.9 million at December 31, 2018.

Due to the variable rate nature of the Margin Loan, Senior Credit Facility and Wells Fargo Note Payable, the Company believes that the carrying amount approximates fair value at December 31, 2018.

(10) Income Taxes

On December 22, 2017, the U.S. government enacted comprehensive tax legislation commonly referred to as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the "Tax Act"). The Tax Act makes broad and complex changes to the U.S. tax code, including, but not limited to, (1) reducing the U.S. federal corporate tax rate from 35 percent to 21 percent; (2) bonus depreciation that will allow for full expensing of qualified property; (3) creating a new limitation on deductible interest expense; (4) eliminating the corporate alternative minimum tax ("AMT") and changing how existing AMT credits can be realized; (5) changing rules related to uses and limitations of net operating loss carryforwards created in tax years beginning after December 31, 2017; (6) limitations on the deductibility of certain executive compensation; and (7) requiring a one-time transition tax on certain unrepatriated earnings of foreign subsidiaries that is payable over eight years. The Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") issued guidance on accounting for the tax effects of the Tax Act. The Company reflected the income tax effects of those aspects of the Tax Act for which the accounting was known as of December 31, 2017 and made immaterial revisions to such amounts during the allowed one year measurement period. As of December 31, 2018, the Company has completed its analysis of the tax effects of the Tax Act.

Holdco was included in the federal combined income tax return of Qurate Retail prior to the HoldCo Split-Off. For periods prior to the HoldCo Split-Off, the tax provision included in these financial statements was prepared on a stand-alone basis, as if the Company was not part of Qurate Retail. Certain HoldCo income tax related balances as of the date of the HoldCo Split-Off were recorded as equity contributions from Qurate Retail in the net amount of $1.1 billion as shown in the consolidated statement of equity. Subsequent to the HoldCo Split-Off, GCI Liberty's consolidated tax return will include HoldCo. Although the acquisition of GCI Liberty was accounted for as a reverse acquisition under GAAP, the consolidated
GCI, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016

income tax return of GCI Liberty for 2018 will include a full year of GCI Liberty’s financials results (including activity prior to the Transactions) and the partial year of financial results of HoldCo for the period subsequent to the HoldCo Split-Off.

Income tax benefit (expense) consists of:
 Years Ended December 31,
 2018 2017 2016
 amounts in thousands
Current:     
Federal$606
 
 
State and local(24) 
 575
 582
 
 575
Deferred:     
Federal192,050
 160,150
 (436,260)
State and local(7,757) (26,628) (60,560)
 184,293
 133,522
 (496,820)
Income tax benefit (expense)$184,875
 133,522
 (496,245)

Income tax benefit (expense) differs from the amounts computed by applying the U.S. federal income tax rate of 21% for the year ended December 31, 2018 and 35% for both of the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 as a result of the following:
 Years Ended December 31,
 2018 2017 2016
 amounts in thousands
Computed expected tax benefit (expense)$231,579
 (206,862) (460,885)
State and local income taxes, net of federal income taxes74,426
 (17,001) (38,991)
Dividends received deductions
 
 1,969
Executive compensation(7,114) 
 
Change in valuation allowance affecting tax expense(189) (384) 
Change in state tax rate due to acquisition(117,496) 
 
Change in state tax rate due to law change37,108
 
 
Change in tax rate due to Tax Act
 347,979
 
Deductible stock compensation(131) 14,116
 1,700
Goodwill impairment(30,960) 
 
Other, net(2,348) (4,326) (38)
Income tax benefit (expense)$184,875
 133,522
 (496,245)

For the year ended December 31, 2018, the income tax benefit was lower than the U.S. statutory tax rate of 21% primarily due to a change in the effective state tax rate used to measure deferred taxes due to the acquisition as discussed in notes 1 and 4 and a goodwill impairment that is not deductible for tax purposes, partially offset by a change in the state effective tax rate used to measure deferred taxes resulting from a state law change.

For the year ended December 31, 2017, the most significant reconciling item is a net tax benefit for the effect of the change in the U.S. federal corporate tax rate from 35% to 21% on deferred taxes. Income tax expense was higher than the U.S. statutory tax rate of 35% in 2016 due to state tax expense related to unrealized gains on the Company’s investments.

GCI, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016

The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of the deferred income tax assets and deferred income tax liabilities at December 31, 2016 and 2015 are summarized below (amounts in thousands):presented below:
 2016 2015
Deferred tax assets:   
Net operating loss carryforwards$109,577
 139,238
Deferred revenue for financial reporting purposes59,993
 41,151
Asset retirement obligations in excess of amounts recognized for tax purposes16,808
 14,338
Compensated absences accrued for financial reporting purposes3,505
 3,339
Share-based compensation expense for financial reporting purposes in excess of amounts recognized for tax purposes3,393
 2,773
Accounts receivable, principally due to allowance for doubtful receivables1,965
 1,912
Alternative minimum tax credits1,735
 1,735
Workers compensation and self-insurance health reserves, principally due to accrual for financial reporting purposes1,705
 1,795
Deferred compensation expense for tax purposes in excess of amounts recognized for financial reporting purposes1,687
 1,603
Other9,371
 11,216
Total deferred tax assets$209,739
 219,100
Deferred tax liabilities:   
Plant and equipment, principally due to differences in depreciation$245,118
 246,172
Intangible assets106,061
 79,255
Other345
 1,746
Total deferred tax liabilities351,524
 327,173
Net deferred tax liabilities$141,785
 108,073
 December 31,
 2018 2017
 amounts in thousands
Deferred tax assets:   
Loss and capital carryforwards$150,011
 48,898
Deferred revenue23,716
 
Inventory115
 
Accrued stock compensation3,598
 6,999
Debt13,948
 
Other accrued liabilities
 362
Other future deductible amounts39,183
 63
Deferred tax assets230,571
 56,322
Valuation allowance(1,326) (433)
Net deferred tax assets229,245
 55,889
Deferred tax liabilities   
Investments573,016
 697,393
Fixed assets232,899
 
Intangible assets215,394
 1,892
Other
 30
Deferred tax liabilities1,021,309
 699,315
Net deferred tax liabilities$792,064
 643,426

During the year ended December 31, 2018 there was an increase in the valuation allowance of $893,000 of which $189,000 affected tax expense. During the year ended December 31, 2017, there was an increase in the valuation allowance of $384,000 of which all of the increase affected tax expense.

At December 31, 2016, we have tax2018, the Company had federal and state net operating losslosses and interest expense carryforwards for income tax purposes aggregating approximately $150 million (on a tax effected basis). Of the $150 million, $35 million are carryforwards with no expiration. The future use of the remaining carryforwards of $268.0$115 million are subject to limitation and expire at certain future dates. Based on current projections, $1 million of these carryforwards may expire unused and accordingly are subject to a valuation allowance. The carryforwards that are expected to be utilized will begin expiringto expire in 2022 if not utilized, and alternative minimum tax credit carryforwards of $1.7 million available to offset regular income taxes payable in future years.  Our utilization of remaining acquired net operating loss carryforwards is subject to annual limitations pursuant to Internal Revenue Code section 382 which could reduce or defer the utilization of these losses.2021.

GCI, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
As of December 31, 2018, the Company had not recorded tax reserves related to unrecognized tax benefits for uncertain tax positions.

OurAs of December 31, 2018, none of GCI’s tax net operating loss carryforwardsyears prior to the HoldCo Split-Off are summarized below by year of expiration (amounts in thousands):
Years ending December 31,Federal State
20226,178
 7,474
20233,968
 3,903
2024722
 
2025737
 
2026150
 
20271,010
 
202839,879
 39,715
202948,370
 47,558
2031110,933
 109,376
20335,031
 4,927
203439,133
 37,866
203511,885
 11,290
Total tax net operating loss carryforwards$267,996
 262,109

Tax benefits associated with recorded deferredunder audit. Qurate Retail’s tax assetsyears prior to 2015 are considered to be more likely than not realizable through taxable income earned in carryback years, future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, and future taxable income exclusive of reversing temporary differences and carryforwards. The amount of deferred tax assets considered realizable, however, could be reduced if estimates of future taxable income during the carryforward period are reduced.

We fileclosed for federal income tax returns inpurposes and the U.S.IRS has completed its examination of Qurate Retail’s 2015, 2016 and in various2017 tax years. Qurate Retail’s 2018 tax year is being examined currently as part of the IRS's Compliance Assurance Process program. Various states are currently examining Qurate Retail’s prior years’ state jurisdictions. We are not subject to U.S. or state tax examinations by tax authorities for years 2012 and earlier except that certain U.S. federal income tax returns for years after 2001 are not closed by relevant statutes of limitations due to unused net operating losses reported on those income tax returns.

We recognize accrued interest on unrecognized tax benefits in interest expense and penalties in selling, general and administrative expenses.  We did not have any unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, and accordingly, we did not recognize any interest expense.  Additionally, we recorded no penalties during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

We did not record any excess tax benefit generated from stock options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, since we are in a net operating loss carryforward position and the income tax deduction will not yet reduce income taxes payable.  The cumulative excess tax benefits generated for stock options exercised that have not been recognized is $7.4 million at December 31, 2016.

 
GCI, INC.LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(9)Fair Value Measurements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016
Recurring Fair Value Measurements
Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 are as follows (amounts in thousands):
December 31, 2016
Level 1 (1)
 
Level 2 (2)
 
Level 3 (3)
 Total
Assets:       
Deferred compensation plan assets (mutual funds)$1,477
 
 
 1,477
        
December 31, 2015
Level 1 (1)
 
Level 2 (2)
 
Level 3 (3)
 Total
Assets:       
Deferred compensation plan assets (mutual funds)$1,728
 
 
 1,728
        
(1) Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets
(2) Observable inputs other than quoted prices in active markets for identical assets
(3) Inputs that are generally unobservable and not corroborated by market data

The fair value of our mutual funds is determined using quoted market prices in active markets utilizing market observable inputs.

Current and Long-Term Debt
The carrying amounts and approximate fair values of our current and long-term debt, excluding capital leases at December 31, 2016 and 2015 are as follows (amounts in thousands):
 December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015
 Carrying Amount Fair Value Carrying Amount Fair Value
Current and long-term debt$1,280,133
 1,317,222
 1,293,296
 1,314,864

The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate fair values:
The fair values of the 6.75% Senior Notes due 2021 and the 6.875% Senior Notes due 2025 are based upon quoted market prices for the same or similar issues (Level 2).  
The fair value of our Senior Credit Facility and Wells Fargo note payable are estimated to approximate their carrying value because the instruments are subject to variable interest rates (Level 2).

(10)Stockholder's Equity

Common Stock

We were incorporated in 1997 and issued 100 shares of our no par Class A common stock to GCI in our initial capitalization. We received all ownership interests in subsidiaries previously held by GCI and proceeds from GCI’s August 1, 1997 common stock offering. We recorded $206.6 million associated with our initial capitalization. All of our issued and outstanding Class A common stock is owned by GCI.

Shared-Based Compensation
GCI's Amended and Restated 1986 Stock Option Plan ("Stock Option Plan"), provides for the grant of restricted stock awards for a maximum of 15.7 million shares of GCIClass A common stock, subject to adjustment upon the occurrence of stock dividends, stock splits, mergers, consolidations or certain other changes in corporate structure or capitalization. If an awardexpires or terminates, the shares subject to the award will be available for further grants of awards under the Stock Option Plan. The Compensation Committee of GCI’s Board of Directors administers theStock Option Plan. Substantially all restricted stock awards granted vest over periods of up to three years. The requisite service period of our awards is generally the same as the vesting
GCI, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
 

period.  New shares of GCI Class A common stock are issued when restricted stock awards are granted. We have 1.5 million shares available for grant under the Stock Option Plan at December 31, 2016.(11) Variable Interest Entities

The fair value of restricted stock awards is determined based on the number of shares granted and the quoted price of GCI's common stock.  We record share-based compensation expense only for those awards expected to vest using an estimated forfeiture rate based on our historical pre-vesting forfeiture data. We review our forfeiture estimates annually and adjust our share-based compensation expense in the period our estimate changes.

A summary of nonvested restricted stock award activity under the Stock Option Plan for the year ended December 31, 2016, follows (share amounts in thousands):
 Shares 
Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Nonvested at January 1, 20161,495
 $11.08
Granted790
 $17.87
Vested(817) $11.65
Forfeited(3) $16.09
Nonvested at December 31, 20161,465
 $14.41

The weighted average grant date fair value of awards granted during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014 were $17.87, $15.06 and $10.04, respectively. The total fair value of awards vesting during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014 were $13.5 million, $17.0 million and $8.5 million, respectively. We have recorded share-based compensation expense of $11.0 million, $10.9 million, and $8.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014, respectively. Share-based compensation expense is classified as Selling, General and Administrative Expense in our Consolidated Statements of Operations.  Unrecognized share-based compensation expense is $12.5 million as of December 31, 2016.  We expect to recognize share-based compensation expense over a weighted average period of 2.0 years for restricted stock awards.

GCI 401(k) Plan
In 1986, GCI adopted an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (“GCI 401(k) Plan”) qualified under Section 401 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. The GCI 401(k) Plan provides for acquisition of GCI’s Class Acommon stock at market value as well as various mutual funds. We may match a percentage of the employees' contributions up to certain limits, decided by GCI’s Board of Directors each year. Our matching contributions allocated to participant accounts totaled $11.0 million, $9.8 million and $9.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.  We used cash to fund all of our employer-matching contributions during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

GCI, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(11)Industry Segments Data
We have two reportable segments, Wireless and Wireline. Our reportable segments are business units that offer different products and are each managed separately. A description of our reportable segments follows:
Wireless - We offer wholesale wireless services.  
Wireline - We provide a full range of wireless, data, video, voice, and managed services to residential customers, businesses, governmental entities, and educational and medical institutions primarily in Alaska.

We evaluate performance and allocate resources based on Adjusted EBITDA, which is defined as earnings plus imputed interest on financed devices before:
Net interest expense,
Income taxes,
Depreciation and amortization expense,
Loss on extinguishment of debt,
Software impairment charge,
Share-based compensation expense,
Accretion expense,
Loss attributable to non-controlling interest resulting from NMTC transactions,
Gains and impairment losses on equity and cost method investments,
Gain recorded for adjusting to fair value assets that were included as consideration paid to acquire
a fiber system, and
Other non-cash adjustments.

Management believes that this measure is useful to investors and other users of our financial information in understanding and evaluating operating performance as an analytical indicator of income generated to service debt and fund capital expenditures.  In addition, multiples of current or projected Adjusted EBITDA are used to estimate current or prospective enterprise value.  

The accounting policies of the reportable segments are the same as those described in Note 1 of this Form 10-K.  We have no intersegment sales. We earn all revenues through sales of services and products within the United States. All of our long-lived assets are located within the United States of America, except approximately 82% of our undersea fiber optic cable systems which transit international waters and all of our satellite transponders.

Wireless plan fee and usage revenues from external customers are allocated between our Wireless and Wireline segments.  The Wireless segment recorded subsidies to the Wireline segment related to wireless equipment sales based upon equipment sales and agreed-upon subsidy rates through the AWN transaction close on July 23, 2013. Subsequent to the transaction close and through March 31, 2014, although permitted, the Wireline segment was unable to meet the requirements in order to request a wireless equipment subsidy from the Wireless segment in accordance with the AWN agreements. These subsidies, which eliminate in consolidation, increase the Wireline segment Adjusted EBITDA and reduce the Wireless segment Adjusted EBITDA.  The wireless equipment subsidy recorded by the Wireless segment was $0 million, $7.7 million, and $17.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Selling, general and administrative expenses are charged to the Wireless segment based upon a shared services agreement.  The remaining selling, general and administrative expenses are charged to the Wireline segment.
GCI, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements


Summarized financial information for our reportable segments for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 follows (amounts in thousands):
 Wireless Wireline Total Reportable Segments
2016     
Revenues     
Wholesale$208,109
 
 208,109
Consumer
 340,460
 340,460
Business services
 385,243
 385,243
Total208,109
 725,703
 933,812
      
Cost of Goods Sold62,487
 240,091
 302,578
Contribution145,622
 485,612
 631,234
Less SG&A(16,439) (341,917) (358,356)
Plus share-based compensation expense
 11,043
 11,043
Plus imputed interest on financed devices
 2,557
 2,557
Plus accretion expense252
 977
 1,229
Other
 337
 337
Adjusted EBITDA$129,435
 158,609
 288,044
      
Capital expenditures$34,555
 159,923
 194,478
Goodwill$164,312
 74,951
 239,263
Total assets$601,796
 1,464,143
 2,065,939

GCI, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 Wireless Wireline Total Reportable Segments
2015     
Revenues     
Wholesale$267,676
 
 267,676
Consumer
 351,196
 351,196
Business services
 359,662
 359,662
Total267,676
 710,858
 978,534
      
Cost of Good Sold70,899
 251,439
 322,338
Contribution196,777
 459,419
 656,196
Less SG&A(18,137) (320,242) (338,379)
Plus share-based compensation expense
 10,902
 10,902
Plus imputed interest on financed devices
 751
 751
Plus accretion expense559
 562
 1,121
Other expense
 (240) (240)
Adjusted EBITDA$179,199
 151,152
 330,351
      
Capital expenditures$47,892
 128,343
 176,235
Goodwill$164,312
 74,951
 239,263
Total assets$594,250
 1,372,690
 1,966,940
      
2014 
  
  
Revenues     
Wholesale$269,977
 
 269,977
Consumer
 288,014
 288,014
Business Services
 352,207
 352,207
Total269,977
 640,221
 910,198
      
Cost of Good Sold90,920
 211,784
 302,704
Contribution179,057
 428,437
 607,494
Less SG&A(21,631) (272,016) (293,647)
Plus share-based compensation expense
 8,392
 8,392
Plus accretion expense733
 516
 1,249
Other expense
 (372) (372)
Adjusted EBITDA$158,159
 164,957
 323,116
      
Capital expenditures$30,243
 145,866
 176,109
Goodwill$164,312
 65,248
 229,560
Total assets$625,417
 1,367,344
 1,992,761

GCI, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

A reconciliation of consolidated income (loss) before income taxes to reportable segment Adjusted EBITDA follows (amounts in thousands):
Years Ended December 31,2016 2015 2014
Consolidated income (loss) before income taxes$5,404
 (9,951) 69,273
Plus other expense, net73,699
 116,162
 74,289
Consolidated operating income79,103
 106,211
 143,562
Plus depreciation and amortization expense193,775
 181,767
 170,285
Plus share-based compensation expense11,043
 10,902
 8,392
Plus imputed interest on financed devices2,557
 751
 
Plus accretion expense1,229
 1,121
 1,249
Plus software impairment charge
 29,839
 
Other337
 (240) (372)
Reportable segment Adjusted EBITDA$288,044
 330,351
 323,116

We earn revenues included in both the Wireless and Wireline segment from a major customer. We had
no major customers for the year ended December 31, 2016. We earned revenues from a major customer, net of discounts, of $130.8 million or 13%, and $108.3 million or 12% of total consolidated revenues for the years ended December 31, 2015, and 2014 respectively.

(12)Related Party Transactions
We entered into a long-term capital lease agreement in 1991 with the wife of GCI’s President and CEO for property occupied by us.  The leased asset was capitalized in 1991 at the owner’s cost of $0.9 million and the related obligation was recorded.  The lease agreement was amended in April 2008 and our existing capital lease asset and liability increased by $1.3 million to record the extension of this capital lease.  The amended lease terminates on September 30, 2026.

In January 2001 we entered into an aircraft operating lease agreement with a company owned by GCI’s President and CEO.  The lease was amended several times, most recently in May 2011.  The lease term of the aircraft may be terminated at any time by us upon 12 months’ written notice.  The monthly lease rate of the aircraft is $132,000.  In 2001, we paid a deposit of $1.5 million in connection with the lease.  The deposit will be repaid to us no later than six months after the agreement terminates.

ACS was a related party for financial statement reporting purposes through the date of the Wireless Acquisition on February 2, 2015. Included in our related party disclosures were ACS' provision to us of local service lines and network capacity in locations where we did not have our own facilities, our provision to ACS of wholesale wireless services for their use of our network to sell services to their respective retail customers, and our receipt of ACS' high cost support from USF for its wireless customers. For the period January 1, 2015 to February 2, 2015, we paid ACS $6.2 million and received $8.1 million in payments from ACS. For the year ended December 31, 2014, we paid ACS $62.9 million and received $50.9 million in payments from ACS. We also have long-term capacity exchange agreements with ACS for which no money is exchanged.

(13)Variable Interest Entities

New Markets Tax Credit Entities
We have
GCI entered into several arrangements under the NMTCNew Markets Tax Credit ("NMTC") program with US Bancorp to help fund a projectvarious projects that extended terrestrial broadband service for the first time to rural Northwestern Alaska communities via a high capacity hybrid fiber optic and microwave network (“TERRA-NW”).network.  The NMTC program was provided for in the Community Renewal Tax Relief Act of 2000 (the “Act”) to induce capital investment in qualified lower income communities.  The Act permits taxpayers to claim credits against their federal income taxes for up to 39% of qualified investments in the equity of community development entities (“CDEs”).  CDEs are privately managed investment institutions that are certified to make qualified low-income community investments.

On August 30, 2011, we entered intoEach of the first arrangement (“NMTC #1”).  In connection with the NMTC #1 transaction, we loaned $58.3 million to TIF,transactions has an investment fund, which is a special purpose entity created to effect the financing arrangement, at 1% interest due August 30, 2041.  Simultaneously,arrangement. In each of the transactions, the Company loaned money to the investment fund and US Bancorp invested $22.4 millionmoney in TIF.  TIFthe investment fund. The investment fund would then
GCI, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

contributed contribute the funds from the Company's loan and US Bancorp’s contribution and the loan proceedsBancorp's investment to certain CDEs.a CDE. The CDEs,CDE, in turn, loanedwould loan the $76.8 million in funds less payment of placement fees, at interest rates varying from 1% to 3.96%, to ourthe Company's wholly owned subsidiary, Unicom, Inc. ("Unicom") as partial financing for TERRA-NW.

On October 3, 2012, we entered into the second arrangement (“NMTC #2”).  In connection with the NMTC #2 transaction we loaned $37.7 million to TIF 2 and TIF 2-USB, special purpose entities created to effect the financing arrangement, at 1% interest due October 2, 2042.  Simultaneously, US Bancorp invested $17.5 million in TIF 2 and TIF 2-USB.  TIF 2 and TIF 2-USB then contributed US Bancorp’s contributions and the loan proceeds to certain CDEs.  The CDEs, in turn, loaned the $55.2 million in funds less payment of placement fees, at interest rates varying from 0.7099% to 0.7693%, to Unicom, as partial financing for TERRA-NW.

On December 11, 2012, we entered into the third arrangement (“NMTC #3”).  In connection with the NMTC #3 transaction we loaned $8.2 million to TIF 3, a special purpose entity created to effect the financing arrangement, at 1% interest due December 10, 2042.  Simultaneously, US Bancorp invested $3.8 million in TIF 3.  TIF 3 then contributed US Bancorp’s contributions and the loan proceeds to a CDE.  The CDE, in turn, loaned the $12.0 million in funds less payment of placement fees, at an interest rate of 1.35%, to Unicom, as partial financing for TERRA-NW.projects.

US Bancorp is the sole investor in TIF, TIF 2, TIF 2-USB and TIF 3, and as such, is entitled to substantially all of the benefits derived from the NMTCs.  All of the loan proceeds to Unicom, net of syndication and arrangement fees, were restricted for use on TERRA-NW.the projects.  Restricted cash of $0.9 million and $1.1$0.8 million was held by Unicom at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively,2018 and is included in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. Wethe Company's consolidated balance sheets. The Company completed construction of TERRA-NW and placed the final phase into service in 2014.projects partially funded by these transactions.

These transactions include put/call provisions whereby wethe Company may be obligated or entitled to repurchase US Bancorp’s interestsinterest in TIF, TIF 2, TIF 2-USB and/or TIF 3. We believeeach investment fund for a nominal amount. The Company believes that US Bancorp will exercise the put options in August 2018, October 2019 and December 2019, at the end of the compliance periods for NMTC #1, NMTC #2 and NMTC #3, respectively.each of the transactions.  The NMTCs are subject to 100% recapture for a period of seven years as provided in the Internal Revenue Code.  We areCode of 1986, as amended.  The Company is required to be in compliance with various regulations and contractual provisions that apply to the NMTC arrangements.  Non-compliance with applicable requirements could result in projected tax benefits not being realized by US Bancorp.  We haveThe Company agreed to indemnify US Bancorp for any loss or recapture of NMTCs totaling $35.1 million until such time as ourits obligation to deliver tax benefits is relieved.  There have been no credit recaptures as of December 31, 2016.2018.  The value attributed to the put/calls is nominal.

We haveThe Company has determined that TIF, TIF 2, TIF 2-USB and TIF 3each of the investment funds are VIEs.variable interest entities ("VIEs").  The consolidated financial statements of TIF, TIF 2, TIF 2-USB and TIF 3each of the investment funds include the CDEs discussed above.CDEs.  The ongoing activities of the VIEs – collecting and remitting interest and fees and NMTC compliance – were all considered in the initial design and are not expected to significantly affect economic performance throughout the life of the VIEs.  Management considered the contractual arrangements that obligate usthe Company to deliver tax benefits and provide various other guarantees to US Bancorp; US Bancorp’s lack of a material interest in the underlying economics of the project; and the fact that we arethe Company is obligated to absorb losses of the VIEs.  WeThe Company concluded that we areit is the primary beneficiary of each and consolidated the VIEs in accordance with the accounting standard for consolidation.

On September 14, 2018, US Bancorp’s contributions, net of syndication fees and other direct costs incurred in structuringBancorp exercised its put option for the NMTC arrangements, are included#1 transaction that was entered into on August 30, 2011 resulting in Non-controlling Interests on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Incremental costs to maintainCompany obtaining ownership of the structure duringinvestment fund. Upon obtaining ownership of the compliance period are recognized as incurred to selling, generalinvestment fund, the Company settled the loans and administrative expense.dissolved the VIEs associated with the August 30, 2011 NMTC transaction.

The assets and liabilities of ourthe consolidated VIEs were $140.9$89.0 million and $104.2$63.0 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2016 and 2015.2018.

The assets of the VIEs serve as the sole source of repayment for the debt issued by these entities. US BankBancorp does not have recourse to usthe Company or ourits other assets, with the exception of customary representations and indemnities we haveit has provided. We areThe Company is not required and dodoes not currently intend to provide additional financial support to these VIEs. While these subsidiaries are included in ourits consolidated financial statements, these subsidiaries are separate legal entities and their assets are legally owned by them and not available to ourthe Company's creditors.

 
GCI, INC.LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016

The following table summarizes the key terms of each of the NMTC transactions:
Financing ArrangementInvestment FundsTransaction DateLoan AmountInterest Rate on Loan to Investment FundMaturity DateUS Bancorp InvestmentLoan to UnicomInterest Rate on Loan(s) to UnicomExpected Put Option Exercise
NMTC #2TIF 2 & TIF 2-USBOctober 3, 2012$37.7 million1%October 2, 2042$17.5 million$52.0 million0.71% to 0.77%October 2019
NMTC #3TIF 3December 11, 2012$8.2 million1%December 10, 2042$3.8 million$12.0 million1.35%December 2019
NMTC #4TIF 4March 21, 2017$6.7 million1%March 21, 2040$3.3 million$9.8 million0.73%March 2024
NMTC #5TIF 5-1 and TIF 5-2December 22, 2017$10.4 million1%December 22, 2047$5.1 million$14.7 million0.67% to 1.24%December 2024

(12) Stock-Based Compensation

GCI Liberty - Incentive Plan

Pursuant to the GCI Liberty, Inc. 2018 Omnibus Incentive Plan, the Company may grant Awards to be made in respect of a maximum of 8.0 million shares of GCI Liberty common stock. Awards generally vest over 1-5 years and have a term of 7-10 years. GCI Liberty issues new shares upon exercise of equity awards.
GCI Liberty - Grants of Stock Options

During the fourth quarter of 2017, prior to the HoldCo Split-Off, Qurate Retail entered into a series of transactions with certain of its officers, associated with certain outstanding stock options, in order to recognize tax deductions in 2017 versus future years (the "Option Exchange"). On December 26, 2017 (the "Grant Date"), pursuant to the approval of the Compensation Committee of its Board of Directors, Qurate Retail effected the acceleration of (i) each unvested in-the-money option to acquire shares of LVNTA and (ii) each unvested in-the-money option to acquire shares of LVNTB, in each case, held by certain of its officers (collectively, the "Eligible Optionholders"). Following this acceleration, also on the Grant Date, each Eligible Optionholder exercised, on a net settled basis, all of his outstanding in-the-money vested and unvested options to acquire LVNTA shares and LVNTB shares (the "Eligible Options"), and:

with respect to each vested Eligible Option, Qurate Retail granted the Eligible Optionholder a vested new option with substantially the same terms and conditions as the exercised vested Eligible Option, except that the exercise price for the new option was, in the case of options to acquire shares of LVNTA, the closing price on the Grant Date per LVNTA share and, in the case of options to acquire shares of LVNTB, the fair market value on the Grant Date of the LVNTB shares as determined pursuant to the incentive plan under which the awards were granted; and

with respect to each unvested Eligible Option:

in satisfaction of the exercise, on a net settled basis, of the unvested Eligible Options, Qurate Retail granted the Eligible Optionholder a number of restricted LVNTA or LVNTB shares (the "Restricted Shares") with a vesting schedule identical to that of the unvested Eligible Options so exercised, and the Eligible Optionholder made an election under Section 83(b) of the Internal Revenue Code with respect to such Restricted Shares; and

Qurate Retail granted the Eligible Optionholder a new option (the "Unvested New Option") to acquire the same series of common stock and with substantially the same terms and conditions, including with respect to vesting and expiration, as the unvested Eligible Option exercised as set forth above, except that the number of LVNTA or LVNTB shares subject to such Unvested New Option was equal to the number of shares subject to the unvested Eligible Option minus the number of Restricted Shares received upon exercise of such unvested Eligible Option. The exercise price of such new option was, in the case of a LVNTA option, the closing price on the Grant Date per share of LVNTA, or, in the case of a LVNTB option, the fair market value on the Grant Date of the LVNTB shares as determined pursuant to the incentive plan under which the Unvested New Options were granted.
GCI, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016
 


Equity Method InvestmentThe Option Exchange was considered a modification under ASC 718 — Stock Compensation, with the following impacts on compensation expense. The unamortized value of the unvested Eligible Options that were exercised, which was $13.5 million for LVNTA and LVNTB combined, will be expensed over the vesting period of the Restricted Shares attributable to the exercise of those options. The grant of new vested options resulted in incremental compensation expense in the fourth quarter of 2017 of $9.2 million for LVNTA and LVNTB combined. The grant of Unvested New Options resulted in incremental compensation expense totaling $6.4 million for LVNTA and LVNTB combined, which will be amortized over the vesting periods of those options.
We owned a 40.8% interest in a next generation carrier-class communications services firm that we accounted for using the equity method and due to a reconsideration event determined that the entity was a VIE.
During the second quarteryear ended December 31 2018, GCI Liberty granted to its directors 10,000 options to purchase shares of 2015, it became apparent that we would not recoverGCI Liberty Series A common stock. Such options had a weighted average grant-date fair value ("GDFV") of $14.09 per share and generally cliff vest in one year. During the carrying valueyears ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, Qurate granted to its directors and employees 188,000 and 114,000 options, respectively, to purchase shares of our investment. We determined thatLVNTA. Such options had a weighted average GDFV of $16.52 and $12.25 per share, respectively, and vest between three and five years for employees and in one year for directors.

Also during the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, and in connection with GCI Liberty's current CEO's employment agreement, the Company granted 143,000, 269,000 and 209,000 options, respectively, to purchase shares of LVNTB to the Company's current CEO. Such options had a weighted average GDFV of $16.55, $15.41 and $12.48 per share, respectively, and cliff vested at the end of their respective grant year.

In connection with the Option Exchange, the Company granted 946,000 and 1.1 million options to purchase shares of LVNTA and LVNTB, respectively. Such options have an incremental weighted average GDFV of $8.53 and $6.94, respectively.

In addition to the stock option grants to GCI Liberty's current CEO, the Company granted 16,000 performance-based RSUs of LVNTB in 2016. The RSUs had a fair value of $38.79 per share at the time they were granted and cliff vested in one year, subject to the satisfaction of certain performance objectives and based on an amount determined by the compensation committee.

The Company has calculated the GDFV for all of its equity investmentclassified Awards and any subsequent remeasurement of its liability classified Awards using the Black-Scholes-Merton Model. The Company estimates the expected term of the Awards based on historical exercise and forfeiture data. For grants made in 2018, 2017 and 2016, the range of expected terms was $04.9 to 6.3 years. The volatility used in the calculation for Awards is based on the historical volatility of GCI Liberty's stock and subsequently wrote-off the entireimplied volatility of publicly traded GCI Liberty options. For grants made in 2018, 2017 and 2016 the range of volatilities was 25.9% to 31.6%. The Company uses a 0 dividend rate and the risk-free rate for Treasury Bonds with a term similar to that of the subject options.

GCI Liberty - Outstanding Awards

The following tables present the number and weighted average exercise price ("WAEP") of Awards to purchase GCI 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 our investment resultingthe Awards. The options outstanding as of January 1, 2018 reflect Qurate Retail's Series A and Series B Liberty Ventures common stock. On March 9, 2018, Qurate Retail redeemed each outstanding share of Qurate Retail's Series A and Series B Liberty Ventures common stock for the corresponding class of GCI Liberty common stock using a one-for-one ratio.
GCI, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016

  Series A
               Weighted    Aggregate
      average intrinsic
  Awards   remaining value
  (000's) WAEP life (millions)
Outstanding at January 1, 2018 1,670
 $47.12
     
Granted 10
 $44.32
     
Exercised (27) $16.23
     
Forfeited/Cancelled (3) $55.81
     
Outstanding at December 31, 2018 1,650
 $47.61
 1.7years $6
Exercisable at December 31, 2018 1,316
 $47.99
 1.3years $6

  Series B
               Weighted    Aggregate
      average intrinsic
  Awards   remaining value
  (000's) WAEP life (millions)
Outstanding at January 1, 2018 1,080
 $56.38
     
Granted 143
 $54.01
     
Exercised 
 $
     
Forfeited/Cancelled 
 $
     
Outstanding at December 31, 2018 1,223
 $56.10
 4.0years $
Exercisable at December 31, 2018 905
 $56.01
 4.4years $

As of December 31, 2018, the total unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested options and RSAs was approximately $9.4 million and $24.2 million, respectively. Such amounts will be recognized in an impairment lossthe Company's consolidated statements of $12.6operations over a weighted average period of approximately 1.2 years and 2.0 years, respectively.

As of December 31, 2018, GCI Liberty reserved for issuance upon exercise of outstanding stock options approximately 1.7 million shares of GCI Liberty Series A common stock and 1.2 million shares of GCI Liberty Series B common stock.

GCI Liberty - Exercises

The aggregate intrinsic value of all options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 was $814,000, $71.9 million and $6.6 million, respectively. The aggregate intrinsic value of options exercised for the year ended December 31, 2015 that is recorded in Other Income (Expense) in our Consolidated Statement2017 includes approximately $56.3 million related to the intrinsic value of Operations. options exercised as a result of the Option Exchange.

GCI Liberty - Restricted Shares

As of December 31, 2018, GCI Liberty had approximately 885,000 and 138,000 unvested RSAs and RSUs of GCI Liberty common stock and preferred stock, respectively, held by certain directors, officers and employees of the Company. These Series A common stock, Series B common stock and Series A Cumulative Redeemable Preferred unvested RSAs, along with the Series A common stock unvested RSUs of GCI Liberty had a weighted average GDFV of $46.21 per share.

The aggregate fair value determination was based upon market information obtainedof all restricted shares of GCI Liberty common and preferred stock that vested during the second quarter of 2015, the estimated liquidation valueyears ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 was $21.9 million, $2.3 million and $1.3 million, respectively.

GCI, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016

(13) Employee Benefit Plans

Subsidiaries of the entity's assets andCompany sponsor 401(k) plans, which provide their employees an opportunity to make contributions to a trust for investment in GCI Liberty common stock, as well as other mutual funds.  The Company's subsidiaries make matching contributions to their plans based on a percentage of the amount of senior secured debt atcontributed by employees.  Employer cash contributions to all plans aggregated $11.0 million, $0.2 million and zero, respectively, for the valuation date. The entity has subsequently closed its operationsyears ended December 31, 2018,  2017 and is in the process of selling its assets. We do not have a contractual obligation to provide additional financing and we have no exposure to loss related to our involvement with the VIE.2016, respectively.

(14)Commitments and Contingencies
(14) Commitments and Contingencies

Operating Leases as Lessee
We lease
The Company leases business offices, have entered intooffice space, site leases, satellite transponder lease agreements, and use satellite transponder and fiber capacity, and certain equipment pursuant to operating lease arrangements.  Many of ourthe Company's leases are for multiple years and contain renewal options.  Rental costsexpense under such arrangements amounted to $58.9$46.7 million, $51.5$1.9 million and $43.8$1.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 20152018, 2017 and 2014,2016, respectively.

Capital Leases as Lessee
We
The Company entered into a long-term capital lease agreement in 1991 with the wife of GCI’s Presidentleases for an office building, certain retail store locations, and CEO for property occupied by us as further described in Note 12 of this Form 10-K.

We have a capital lease agreement for transponder capacity on Intelsat, Ltd.’s (“Intelsat”) Galaxy 18 spacecraft.  The Intelsat Galaxy 18 C-band

Tower Sale and Ku-Band transponders are beingLeaseback

In 2016 and 2017, certain tower sites were sold by GCI Holdings to Vertical Bridge II, LLC ("Vertical Bridge"). GCI Holdings entered into a master lease agreement in which it leased overback space at the tower sites for an expectedinitial term of 14ten years, followed by the option to renew for eight additional five year periods, for a total possible lease term of 50 years. AtEach lease inceptionis subject to a 2% annual increase in lease payments throughout the present valuelife of the initial lease and all subsequent lease renewals.

Per the master lease agreement, GCI Holdings has the right to cure land lease defaults on behalf of Vertical Bridge and has negotiated fixed rate lease renewals as described above. Due to this continuing involvement with the Tower Sites, GCI Holdings determined it was precluded from applying sale-leaseback accounting. GCI Holdings recorded long-term financial obligations (“Tower Obligations”) in the amount of the net proceeds received and recognized interest on the Tower Obligations at a rate of 7.1% using the effective interest method. The Tower Obligations are increased by interest expense and amortized through contractual leaseback payments excluding telemetry, trackingmade by GCI Holdings to Vertical Bridge. GCI Holdings' historical tower site asset costs continue to be depreciated and command servicesreported in Property and back-up protection, was $98.6 million.Equipment, net. The Company has property of $32.0 million included in Property and Equipment, net on the consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2018 that had been conveyed to Vertical Bridge as part of the tower sale.

GCI, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016

A summary of future minimum lease payments under noncancelable operating, capital leases and tower obligations
follows (amounts in thousands):
Years ending December 31:Operating CapitalOperating Capital Tower Obligations
2017$46,249
 13,433
201835,822
 13,440
201927,525
 13,450
$40,487
 13,450
 7,644
202022,047
 13,459
33,225
 13,459
 7,797
202116,797
 12,044
23,563
 12,044
 7,953
2022 and thereafter37,063
 7,705
202213,177
 5,293
 8,112
20238,652
 678
 8,274
2024 and thereafter21,326
 1,734
 142,812
Total minimum lease payments$185,503
 73,531
$140,430
 46,658
 182,592
Less amount representing interest  13,884
  4,162
 90,273
Less current maturity of obligations under capital leases  9,331
Long-term obligations under capital leases, excluding current maturity  $50,316
Less current maturity of obligations  11,636
 934
Long-term obligations under capital leases and tower obligations, excluding current maturity  $30,860
 91,385

The leases generally provide that we paythe Company pays the taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses related to the leased assets.  Several of ourthe leases include renewal options, escalation clauses and immaterial amounts of contingent rent expense.  We expectThe Company expects that in the normal course of business leases that expire will be renewed or replaced by leases on other properties.

Guaranteed Service Levels

Certain customers have guaranteed levels of service with varying terms. In the event we arethe Company is unable to provide the minimum service levels, weit may incur penalties or issue credits to customers.

Self-Insurance
Through December 31, 2016, we were self-insured for losses and liabilities related to health and welfare claims up to $700,000 per incident per year above which third party insurance applied. A reserve of $4.0 million and
GCI, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

$4.1 million are recorded at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, to cover estimated reported losses, estimated unreported losses based on past experience modified for current trends, and estimated expenses for settling claims.  We are self-insured for all losses and liabilities related to workers’ compensation claims in Alaska and have a workers compensation excess insurance policy to make claims for any losses in excess of $500,000 per incident.  A reserve of $2.9 million and $3.6 million are recorded at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, to cover estimated reported losses and estimated expenses for open and active claims.  Actual losses will vary from the recorded reserves.  While we use what we believe are pertinent information and factors in determining the amount of reserves, future additions or reductions to the reserves may be necessary due to changes in the information and factors used.

We are self-insured for damage or loss to certain of our transmission facilities, including our buried, undersea, and above-ground transmission lines. If we become subject to substantial uninsured liabilities due to damage or loss to such facilities, our financial position, results of operations or liquidity may be adversely affected.

Litigation, Disputes, and Regulatory Matters
We are
The Company is involved in various lawsuits, billing disputes, legal proceedings, and regulatory matters that have arisen from time to time in the normal course of business.  Management believes there are no proceedings from asserted and unasserted claims which if determined adversely would have a material adverse effect on ourthe Company's financial position, results of operations or liquidity other than as discussed below.

Rural Health Care Program

GCI Holdings receives support from various Universal Service Fund USF programs including the USF Rural Health Care ("RHC") Program. The USF programs are subject to change by regulatory actions taken by the FCC, interpretations of or compliance with USF program rules, or legislative actions. Changes to any of the USF programs that GCI Holdings participates in could result in a material decrease in revenue and accounts receivable, which could have an adverse effect on GCI Holdings' business and the Company's financial position, results of operations or liquidity. The following paragraphs describe certain separate matters related to the RHC Program that impact or could impact the revenue earned and receivables recognized by the Company.

In November 2017, the Universal Service Administrative Company ("USAC") requested further information in support of the rural rates charged to a number of GCI Holdings' RHC customers in connection with the funding requests for the year that runs July 1, 2017 through June 30, 2018. On October 10, 2018, GCI Holdings received a letter from the FCC's Wireline Competition Bureau (“Bureau”) notifying it of the Bureau’s decision to reduce the rural rates charged to RHC customers for the funding year that ended on June 30, 2018 by approximately 26% resulting in a reduction of total support payments of $27.8 million. The FCC also informed GCI Holdings that the same cost methodology used for the funding year that ended on June 30, 2018 would be applied to rates charged to RHC customers in subsequent funding years. In response to the letter from the Bureau, GCI Holdings filed an Application for Review of the Bureau’s decision with the FCC. In the third quarter of 2018, GCI Holdings recorded a $19.1 million reduction in its receivables balance as part of its acquisition accounting and recorded a
GCI, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016

reduction in revenue in the current period for the funding year that ended on June 30, 2018 of approximately $8.6 million. GCI Holdings expects to reduce future RHC program revenue by a similar rate as to the funding year that ended on June 30, 2018, which based on a current run rate would approximate $7 million per quarter until it can reach a final resolution with the FCC regarding the funding amounts.

On March 15, 2018, USAC announced that the funding requests for the year that runs July 1, 2017 through June 30, 2018 exceeded the funding available for the RHC Program. Since that time, on June 25, 2018, the FCC issued an order resulting in an increase of the annual RHC Program funding cap from $400 million to $571 million and applied it to the funding year that ended on June 30, 2018. The FCC also determined that it would annually adjust the RHC Program funding cap for inflation, beginning with the funding year ending on June 30, 2019 and carry-forward unused funds from past funding years for use in future funding years. As a result, aggregate funding was available to pay in full the approved funding under the RHC program for the funding year ended on June 30, 2018.

In addition, on March 23, 2018, GCI Holdings received a separate letter of inquiry and request for information from the Enforcement Bureau of the FCC, to which it is in the process of responding. This inquiry into the rates charged by GCI Holdings is still pending, and presently it is unable to assess the ultimate resolution of this matter. The ongoing uncertainty in program funding could have an adverse effect on its business, financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

Universal Service
As an ETC, we receive supportOn November 30, 2018, GCI Holdings received multiple funding denial notices from USAC, denying requested funding from the USFRHC Program operated by a rural health customer (the “Customer”) for the provision of wireline local access and wirelessfunding year that ended on June 30, 2018. At the rates approved by the Bureau in a letter received on October 10, 2018, the funding at issue under the denials is approximately $13 million. In November 2017, USAC requested information from the Customer related to bidding process documentation for two separate service in Remote and Urban high cost areas as further described in Note 1 ofcontracts GCI Holdings has with the Customer. Although the Customer timely responded, USAC found that bids previously received were not submitted with the original funding request and/or that bidding information submitted was related to the wrong bidding year. The Customer filed an appeal with USAC on January 29, 2019. At this Form 10-K. For both Remote and Urban high cost support revenue, our abilitytime, GCI Holdings has no reason to collect our accrued USF support is contingent upon continuationbelieve that there was any violation of the USF program and upon our eligibilityFCC’s competitive bidding rules, but without further information from the Customer and/or USAC, it cannot assess whether the USAC denials will be overturned. If the denial notices are upheld for reasons relating to participate in that program, which arethe Customer’s competitive bidding process, funding issued under one or both contracts for prior years could be subject to change by future regulatory, legislativefurther review, as well as funding for services already being delivered or judicial actions. We adjust revenueto be delivered for the period from July 1, 2018 through June 30, 2019. GCI Holdings has accounts receivable of approximately $18 million outstanding as of December 31, 2018 associated with these two service contracts. The outstanding accounts receivable includes the approximate $13 million of funding at issue as discussed above and additional amounts for services provided for the accountperiod from July 1, 2018 through December 31, 2018. Given the uncertainty of whether the USAC denials will be overturned, it is reasonably possible that GCI Holdings may incur a loss. The amount of a potential loss could range from zero to the full amount of the accounts receivable balance as of December 31, 2018. No amount within this range of a potential loss is a better estimate than any other amount. Accordingly, no loss was recorded as of December 31, 2018 given the minimum amount in the periodrange is zero.

In addition, on December 4, 2018, the FCC makesissued a program changepublic notice seeking further comment on an earlier proposal to determine the rural rates for services supported by the RHC Program in a different manner than it does today. GCI Holdings and others submitted comments on January 30, 2019, but GCI Holdings cannot assess at this time the substance, impact on funding, or we assess the likelihood that such a change has increased or decreased revenue. Our revenue for providing local and wireless services in these areas would be materially adversely affected by a substantial reduction of USF support.

Tribal Mobility Fund I Grant
In February 2014, the FCC announced our winning bids in the Tribal Mobility Fund I auction for a $41.4 million grant to partially fund expansion of our 3G wireless network, or better, to locations in Alaska where we would not otherwise be able to construct within our return-on-investment requirements. We received $0 million and $13.8 million in 2016 and 2015, respectively, and expect to receive $27.6 million in additional grant fund disbursements in the future depending on the timing of upgrades completed and test results submitted to and approvedany future rule changes that may be adopted by the FCC.

(15) Information About the Company's Operating Segments

The Company, through its interests in subsidiaries and other companies, is primarily engaged in the broadband communications services industry. The Company identifies its reportable segments as (A) those consolidated companies 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. The segment presentation for prior periods has been conformed to the current period segment presentation.

The Company evaluates performance and makes decisions about allocating resources to its operating segments based on financial measures such as revenue, Adjusted OIBDA, and subscriber metrics.
(15)Software Impairment
GCI, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016
During the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2014, we internally developed computer software in our Wireline segment to replace our wireless, Internet, video, local service, and long distance customer billing systems. During the first quarter of 2015, we completed a detailed assessment of our progress to date and determined it was no longer probable that the computer software being developed would be completed and placed in service. Our assessment concluded that the
The Company defines Adjusted OIBDA as revenue less cost of continuingsales, operating expenses, and selling, general and administrative expenses (excluding stock‑based compensation). The Company believes this measure is an important indicator of the development wouldoperational strength and performance of its businesses, including each business’s ability to service debt and fund capital expenditures. In addition, this measure allows management, including the chief operating decision maker, 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 and impairment charges that are included in the measurement of operating income pursuant to GAAP. Accordingly, Adjusted OIBDA should be much higher than originally estimated, and the timing and scope risks were substantial. We identified development work, hardware, and software recordedconsidered in addition to, but not as Construction in Progress through the first quarter of 2015, that may be applicable to our replacement customer billing solution, future internally developed software,a substitute for, operating income, net income, cash flow provided by operating activities and other system needs and therefore should remain capital assets. We considered the remaining capital expenditures for this billing system to have a fair valuemeasures of $0 and recorded an impairment charge of $20.7 million duringfinancial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP.

For the year ended December 31, 2015 by recording an expense which2018 the Company has identified the following subsidiary as a reportable segment:

GCI Holdings-provides a full range of wireless, data, video, voice, and managed services to residential, businesses, governmental entities, and educational and medical institutions primarily in Alaska.

For presentation purposes the Company is providing financial information for Liberty Broadband. While the Company’s equity method investment in Liberty Broadband does not meet the reportable segment threshold defined above, the Company believes that the inclusion of such information is relevant to users of these financial statements.
Liberty Broadband-an equity method affiliate of the Company, accounted for at fair value, has a non‑controlling interest in Charter, and a wholly‑owned subsidiary, Skyhook Wireless, Inc. ("Skyhook"). Charter is the second largest cable operator in the United States and a leading broadband communications services company providing video, Internet and voice services. Skyhook provides a Wi‑Fi based location platform focused on providing positioning technology and contextual location intelligence solutions.
The Company’s operating segments are strategic business units that offer different products and services. They are managed separately because each segment requires different technologies, distribution channels and marketing strategies. The accounting policies of the consolidated subsidiaries included in Software Impairment Chargethe segments are the same as those described in our Consolidated Statementthe Company’s summary of Operations.significant accounting policies.

Performance Measures
During the year ended December 31, 2015, we reassessed our plans for our internally developed machine-to-machine billing system in our Wireline segment, and decided to no longer market this system to third parties. Accordingly, we recognized an impairment of $7.1 million during the year ended December 31, 2015 by recording an expense which is included in Software Impairment Charge in our Consolidated Statement of Operations.
 Years ended December 31,
 2018 2017 2016
 Revenue Adjusted OIBDA Revenue Adjusted OIBDA Revenue Adjusted OIBDA
 amounts in thousands
GCI Holdings$715,842
 217,832
 
 
 
 
Liberty Broadband22,256
 (3,528) 13,092
 (16,416) 30,586
 (11,442)
Corporate and other23,920
 (19,461) 23,817
 (25,762) 22,552
 (16,063)
 762,018
 194,843
 36,909
 (42,178) 53,138
 (27,505)
Eliminate Liberty Broadband(22,256) 3,528
 (13,092) 16,416
 (30,586) 11,442
 $739,762
 198,371
 23,817
 (25,762) 22,552
 (16,063)

 
GCI, INC.LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016
 

During the year ended December 31, 2015, we evaluated user management software we purchased in 2014 in our Wireline segment and determined that we would not be able to use the software. Accordingly we recognized an impairment of $1.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2015 by recording an expense which is included in Software Impairment Charge in our Consolidated Statement of Operations.Other Information
 December 31, 2018 December 31, 2017
 Total Investments Capital Total Investments Capital
 assets in affiliates expenditures assets in affiliates expenditures
 amounts in thousands
GCI Holdings$3,331,717
 719
 131,029
 
 
 
Liberty Broadband12,098,437
 12,004,376
 41
 11,931,789
 11,835,613
 70
Corporate and other4,894,452
 176,311
 3,323
 6,172,213
 114,655
 3,488
 20,324,606
 12,181,406
 134,393
 18,104,002
 11,950,268
 3,558
Eliminate Liberty Broadband(12,098,437) (12,004,376) (41) (11,931,789) (11,835,613) (70)
Consolidated$8,226,169
 177,030
 134,352
 6,172,213
 114,655
 3,488

The following table provides a reconciliation of segment Adjusted OIBDA to operating income and earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes:
 Years ended December 31,
 2018 2017 2016
 amounts in thousands
Consolidated segment Adjusted OIBDA$198,371
 (25,762) (16,063)
Stock‑based compensation(28,207) (26,583) (16,128)
Depreciation and amortization(206,946) (3,252) (2,964)
Impairment of intangibles and long-lived assets(219,595) 
 
Operating income (loss)(256,377) (55,597) (35,155)
Interest expense(105,215) 
 
Share of earnings (loss) of affiliates, net25,772
 7,001
 11,831
Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on financial instruments, net(758,836) 637,164
 1,309,365
Other, net(8,100) 2,467
 30,773
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes$(1,102,756) 591,035
 1,316,814

(16)Selected Quarterly
GCI, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Data (Unaudited)Statements

December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016

(16) Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)

The following is a summary of unaudited quarterly results of operations for the years ended December 31, 20162018 and 2015 (amounts in thousands):2017:
 
First
Quarter
Second
Quarter
Third
Quarter
Fourth
Quarter
2016    
Total revenues$231,098
233,766
236,655
232,293
Operating income$20,019
19,531
26,368
13,185
Net income (loss)$326
(422)(973)(607)
Net income (loss) attributable to GCI, Inc.$443
(305)(857)(488)
     
2015    
Total revenues$231,089
247,528
258,573
241,344
Operating income$816
39,257
45,549
20,589
Net income (loss)$(17,721)(14,701)19,802
2,588
Net income (loss) attributable to GCI, Inc.$(18,246)(14,622)19,918
2,759
 
First
Quarter
 
Second
Quarter
 
Third
Quarter
 
Fourth
Quarter
 amounts in thousands
2018       
Revenue$61,204
 233,490
 210,146
 234,922
Operating income (loss)$(7,169) 1,798
 (19,558) (231,448)
Net earnings (loss)$(191,549) (311,612) 353,001
 (767,721)
Net earnings (loss) attributable to member$(191,510) (311,458) 353,128
 (767,690)
        
2017       
Revenue$3,969
 6,177
 5,493
 8,178
Operating income (loss)$(11,351) (11,617) (10,469) (22,160)
Net earnings (loss)$450,654
 31,601
 287,290
 (44,988)
Net earnings (loss) attributable to member$450,654
 31,602
 287,362
 (45,032)


PART III

Items 10, 11, 12 and 13 are omitted per General Instruction I(2)(c) of Form 10-K.

Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services

For the fiscal year ending December 31, 2017, our independent auditor was Grant Thornton LLP (“GT”). On March 9, 2018, GT was replaced as our independent registered public accounting firm by KPMG LLP. The replacement of GT and approval of the appointment of KPMG LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm was approved by the audit committee of GCI Liberty’s board of directors on March 9, 2018 in connection with the closing of the Transactions and on May 11, 2018 following the completion of the Reincorporation Merger.

Fees for professional audit services relating to our consolidated financial statements are incurred by GCI Liberty in connection with the audit of their consolidated financial statements. GCI, LLC incurs an insignificant amount of additional fees specific to the audit of its financial statements.

The following table presents (i) fees for professional audit services rendered by GT for the audit of GCI’s consolidated financial statements for 2017 and fees billed for other services rendered by GT and (ii) an estimate of fees for professional audit services rendered by KPMG LLP for the audit of our parent company’s consolidated financial statements for 2018 and fees billed for other services rendered by KPMG LLP:
  2018 2017
Audit fees(1)
 $3,265,550
 1,435,101
Audit related fees(2)
 
 134,750
Audit and audit related fees 3,265,550
 1,569,851
Tax fees(3)
 
 124,693
Total fees $3,265,550
 1,694,544
(1) Consists of fees for annual financial statement audit, quarterly financial statement reviews, reviews of other filings by the company with the SEC, audit of internal control over financial reporting and for services that are normally provided by an auditor in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements. 

(2) Consists of fees for Form S-4 filings and the audit of the GCI 401(k) Plan and review of the related annual report on Form 11-K filed with the SEC.

(3) Consists of fees for review of GCI's state and federal income tax returns and consultation on various tax advice and tax planning matters.

GCI Liberty’s audit committee has considered whether the provision of services by KPMG LLP to our company other than auditing is compatible with KPMG LLP maintaining its independence and believes that the provision of such other services is compatible with KPMG LLP maintaining its independence.

POLICY ON PRE-APPROVAL OF AUDIT AND PERMISSIBLE NON-AUDIT SERVICES OF INDEPENDENT AUDITOR

GCI Liberty’s audit committee has adopted a policy regarding the pre-approval of all audit and permissible non-audit services provided by our independent auditor. Pursuant to this policy, GCI Liberty’s audit committee has approved the engagement of our independent auditor to provide the following services (all of which are collectively referred to as "pre-approved services"):

audit services as specified in the policy, including (i) financial audits of our company and our subsidiaries, (ii) services associated with registration statements, periodic reports and other documents filed or issued in connection with securities offerings (including comfort letters and consents), (iii) attestations of management reports on our internal controls and (iv) consultations with management as to accounting or disclosure treatment of transactions; 

audit related services as specified in the policy, including (i) due diligence services, (ii) financial statement audits of employee benefit plans, (iii) consultations with management as to the accounting or disclosure treatment of transactions, (iv) attest services not required by statute or regulation, (v) certain audits incremental to the audit of our

consolidated financial statements, (vi) closing balance sheet audits related to dispositions, and (vii) general assistance with implementation of the requirements of certain Securities and Exchange Commission rules or listing standards; and

tax services as specified in the policy, including federal, state, local and international tax planning, compliance and review services, and tax due diligence and advice regarding mergers and acquisitions.

Notwithstanding the foregoing general pre-approval, if, in the reasonable judgment of GCI Liberty’s Chief Financial Officer or Senior Vice President and Controller, an individual project involving the provision of pre-approved services is likely to result in fees in excess of $50,000, or if individual projects under $50,000 are likely to equal or exceed $250,000 during the period between the regularly scheduled meetings of the audit committee, then such projects will require the specific pre-approval of GCI Liberty’s audit committee. GCI Liberty’s audit committee has delegated the authority for the foregoing approvals to the chairman of the audit committee, subject to his subsequent disclosure to the entire audit committee of the granting of any such approval. Gregg Engles currently serves as the chairman of GCI Liberty’s audit committee. In addition, the independent auditor is required to provide a report at each regularly scheduled audit committee meeting on all pre-approved services incurred during the preceding quarter. Any engagement of our independent auditors for services other than the pre-approved services requires the specific approval of GCI Liberty’s audit committee.

GCI Liberty’s pre-approval policy prohibits the engagement of our independent auditor to provide any services that are subject to the prohibition imposed by Section 201 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.

All services provided by our independent auditor during 2018 were approved in accordance with the terms of the policy in place.



PART IV

Item 15(b)15.  Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules.
(a)(1) Financial Statements
Included in Part II of this report:
Page No.
GCI, LLC
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Consolidated Balance Sheets, December 31, 2018 and 2017
Consolidated Statements of Operations, Years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, Years ended December 31, 2018, 2017, and 2016
Consolidated Statements of Equity, Years ended December 31, 2018, 2017, and 2016
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, December 31, 2018, 2017, and 2016
(a)(2) Financial Statement Schedules
(i) All schedules have been omitted because they are not applicable, not material or the required information is set forth in the financial statements or notes thereto.

(ii) The audited consolidated financial statements of Liberty Broadband Corporation as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, and for each of the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, as well as the accompanying notes thereto and the related Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, are contained in Liberty Broadband Corporation's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018, filed with the SEC on February 8, 2019 and are incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 99.1.

(a)(3). Exhibits

Listed below are the exhibits that are filed as a part of this Report (according to the number assigned to them in Item 601 of Regulation S-K):
2 - Plan of Acquisition, Reorganization, Arrangement, Liquidation or Succession:
2.1
DescriptionWhere Located3 - Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws:
3.1The ArticlesIncorporatedLLC, dated as of March 2, 2018 (incorporated by reference to GCI's Form S-3 Registration Statement (File No. 333-28001) dated May 29, 1997.Exhibit 3.1 to the March 2018 8-K).
3.2The BylawsIncorporated with and into GCI, LLC, dated as of March 8, 2018 (incorporated by reference to GCI's Form S-3 Registration Statement (File No. 333-28001) dated May 29, 1997.Exhibit 3.2 to the March 2018 8-K).
3.3Amendment to the BylawsIncorporatedLLC, dated as of March 8, 2018 (incorporated by reference to GCI, Inc.'s Annual Report on Form 10-K forExhibit 3.3 to the year ended December 31, 2014.March 2018 8-K).
4 - Instruments Defining the Rights of Securities Holders, including Indentures:
4.1Incorporated (incorporated by reference to The Company'sExhibit 4.4 to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K for the period May 20, 2011 filed on May 25, 2011.2011 (File No. 000-05890) (the “May 2011 8-K”)).
4.2Supplemental Indenture dated as of May 23, 2011 between GCI, Inc. and Union Bank, N.A., as trusteeIncorporated by reference to The Company's Report on Form 8-K for the period May 20, 2011 filed May 25, 2011.
4.3Incorporated (incorporated by reference to The Company'sExhibit 4.1 to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K for the period April 1, 2015 filed on April 6, 2015.2015 (File No. 000-05890)).
4.3


Exhibit No.4.4DescriptionWhere Located
10.1Order approving Application for a CertificateIncorporatedTrustee (6.75% Senior Notes) (incorporated by reference to GCI’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1991.
10.2
TheExhibit 4.3 to GCI Special Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan1
Incorporated by reference to GCI’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1995.
10.3Transponder Purchase Agreement for Galaxy X between Hughes Communications Galaxy,Liberty, Inc. and GCI Communication Corp.Incorporated by reference to GCI’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1995.
10.4Lease Agreement dated September 30, 1991 between RDB Company and General Communication, Inc.Incorporated by reference to GCI’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1991.
10.5Transponder Lease Agreement between General Communication Incorporated and Hughes Communications Satellite Services, Inc., executed August 8, 1989Incorporated by reference to GCI’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1993.
10.6Addendum to Galaxy X Transponder Purchase Agreement between GCI Communication Corp. and Hughes Communications Galaxy, Inc. dated August 24, 1995Incorporated by reference to GCI’s Amendment No. 1 to Form S-3/A Registration Statement (File No. 333-28001) dated July 8, 1997.
10.7First Amendment to Lease Agreement dated as of September 2002 between RDB Company and GCI Communication Corp. as successor in interest to General Communication, Inc.Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002.
10.8Aircraft lease agreement between GCI Communication Corp., and Alaska corporation and 560 Company, Inc., an Alaska corporation, dated as of January 22, 2001Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002.
10.9First amendment to aircraft lease agreement between GCI Communication Corp., and Alaska corporation and 560 Company, Inc., an Alaska corporation, dated as of February 8, 2002Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002.
10.10Full-time Transponder Capacity Agreement with PanAmSat Corporation dated March 31, 2006 #Incorporated by reference to The Company’s’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the periodquarter ended March 31, 2006.2018 filed on May 10, 2018 (File No. 001-38385) (the “GCI Liberty 2018 Q1 10-Q”)).
10.114.5
4.6
4.7IncorporatedBorrower, Various Lenders, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., London Branch, as Calculation Agent, and JP Morgan Chase Bank, N.A., London Branch, as Administrative Agent (incorporated by reference to The Company’sExhibit 4.1 to GCI Liberty, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 14, 2018 (File No. 001-38385)).
4.8
10.12First Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated February 15, 2008 #Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the periodquarter ended September 30, 2009.2018 filed on November 8, 2018 (File No. 001-38385)).
10.13Second Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated April 9, 2008 #Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2009.10 - Material Contracts:
10.1410.1Third Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated June 4, 2008 #Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2009.


Exhibit No.DescriptionWhere Located
10.15Fourth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated June 4, 2008 #Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2009.
10.16Fifth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated September 30, 2008 #Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2009.
10.17Sixth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated October 31, 2008 #Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2009.
10.18Seventh Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated November 6, 2008 #Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2009.
10.19Eighth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated June 8, 2009 #Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2009.
10.20Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of January 29, 2010 by and among GCI Holdings, Inc., the other parties thereto and Calyon New York Branch, as administrative agent, and the other Lenders party theretoIncorporated by reference to The Company's Report on Form 8-K for the period January 29, 2010 filed February 3, 2010.
10.21Ninth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated June 29, 2010 #Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2010 filed August 5, 2010.
10.22Amended and restated aircraft lease agreement between GCI Communication Corp., and Alaska corporation and 560 Company, Inc., an Alaska corporation, dated as of February 25, 2005Incorporated by reference to The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010, filed March 15, 2011.
10.23First amendment to the amended and restated aircraft lease agreement between GCI Communication Corp., and Alaska corporation and 560 Company, Inc., an Alaska corporation, dated as of December 27, 2010Incorporated by reference to The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010, filed March 15, 2011.
10.24Tenth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated September 24, 2010 #Incorporated by reference to The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010, filed March 15, 2011.
10.25Eleventh Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated September 23, 2010 #Incorporated by reference to The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010, filed March 15, 2011.
10.26Twelfth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated November 5, 2010 #Incorporated by reference to The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010, filed March 15, 2011.
10.27Broadband Initiatives Program Loan/Grant and Security Agreement between United Utilities, Inc. and the United States of America dated as of June 1, 2010 #Incorporated by reference to The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010, filed March 15, 2011.


Exhibit No.DescriptionWhere Located
10.28Second Amended and Restated Aircraft Lease Agreement between GCI Communication Corp., an Alaska corporation, and 560 Company, Inc., an Alaska corporation, dated May 9, 2011Incorporated (incorporated by reference to The Company’sExhibit 10.190 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the periodquarter ended June 30, 2011 filed on August 9, 2011.2011 (File No. 000-05890)).
10.2910.2Credit Agreement dated August 30, 2011 by and between Unicom, Inc. as borrower and Northern Development Fund VIII, LLC as Lender and Travois New Markets Project CDE X, LLC as Lender and Waveland Sub CDE XVI, LLC as Lender and Alaska Growth Capital Bidco, Inc. as Disbursing AgentIncorporated by reference to The Company's Report on Form 8-K for the period August 30, 2011 filed September 6, 2011.
10.30Credit Agreement dated October 3, 2012 by and between Unicom, Inc. as borrower and USBCDE Sub-CDE 74, LLC as Lender and Cherokee Nation Sub-CDE II, LLC as Lender and LBCDE Sub2, LLC as Lender and Waveland Sub CDE XXII, LLC as LenderIncorporated by reference to The Company's Report on Form 8-K for the period October 3, 2012 filed October 9, 2012.
10.31ThirteenthIncorporated by reference to The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012, filed March 8, 2013.November 30, 2018.*
10.32Fourteenth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated June 7, 2011  #Incorporated by reference to The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012, filed March 8, 2013.
10.33Fifteenth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated December 29, 2011  #Incorporated by reference to The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012, filed March 8, 2013.
10.34Sixteenth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated December 21, 2012  #Incorporated by reference to The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012, filed March 8, 2013.
10.35Seventeenth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated June 4, 2013 #
Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2013 filed November 8, 2013.
10.36Eighteenth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation, formerly known as PanAmSat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated October 17, 2013 #
Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2013 filed November 8, 2013.
10.3710.3
Broadband Initiatives Program Loan/Grant and Security Agreement between United Utilities, Inc. and The United States of America dated June 1, 2010

Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2013 filed November 8, 2013.
10.38Nineteenth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated March 20, 2014 #Incorporated by reference to The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2014 filed May 5, 2014.
10.39Twentieth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated August 11, 2014 #Incorporated by reference to The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ending December 31, 2014 filed March 5, 2015.


Exhibit No.DescriptionWhere Located
10.40Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of February 2, 2015 by and among GCI Holdings, Inc., GCI, Inc., the Subsidiary Guarantors party thereto, the Lenders party thereto, Union Bank, as Syndication Agent, Suntrust Bank, as Documentation Agent and Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, as Administrative AgentIncorporated by reference to The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ending December 31, 2014 filed March 5, 2015.
10.41Twenty-First Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated August 11, 2014 #Incorporated by reference to The Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2015 filed May 8, 2015
10.42Twenty-Second Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated August 11, 2014 #Incorporated by reference to The Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2015 filed August 5, 2015
10.43FirstSeventh Amendment to the Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of February 2, 2015Incorporated27, 2018 (incorporated by reference to The Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q forExhibit 4.2 to the period ended June 30, 2015 filed August 5, 2015GCI Liberty 2018 Q1 10-Q).
10.4410.4Twenty-Third Incorporated by reference to The Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2015 filed November 5, 2015
10.45Twenty-Fourth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated August 11, 2014 #Incorporated by reference to The Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2015 filed November 5, 2015
10.46Twenty-Fifth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated December 31, 2015 #Incorporated by reference to The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ending December 31, 2015 filed March 3, 2016
10.47Second Amendment to the Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of February 2, 2015December 27, 2018, among GCI, LLC, the subsidiary guarantors party thereto, the lenders party thereto, Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, as administrative agent, and the other parties thereto*
16.1Incorporated
10.48Twenty-Sixth AmendmentExhibit 16.1 to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated March 7, 2016 #Incorporated by reference to The Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2016 filed May 5, 2016
10.49Twenty-Seventh Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated June 17, 2016 #Incorporated by reference to The Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2016 filed August 3, 2016
10.50Master Lease Agreement among The Alaska Wireless Network, LLC, AWN Tower Company, LLC and General Communication, Inc. dated August 1, 2016Incorporated by reference to The Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2016 filed November 4, 2016
10.51Third Amendment to the Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of November 17, 2016Incorporated by reference to The Company'sRegistrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K for the period November 17, 2016 filed November 23, 2016.
on March 14, 2018 (File No.000-05890)).


31.1
Exhibit No.31.2DescriptionWhere Located
10.5232.1Fourth Amendment to the Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated
99.1Incorporated (incorporated by reference to The Company's Report on Form 8-K for the period November 17, 2016 filed November 23, 2016.
10.53Twenty-Eighth Amendment to the Full-Time Transponder Capacity Agreement (Pre-Launch) between Intelsat Corporation and GCI Communication Corp. dated October 31, 2016 # *
14Code Of Business Conduct and EthicsIncorporated by reference to The Company's Report on Form 8-K for the period September 27, 2013 filed October 3, 2013.
21.1Subsidiaries of the Registrant  *
31Certifications Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 *
32Certifications Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 *
101The following materials from GCI, Inc.'sLiberty Broadband Corporation's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016, formatted in XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language): (i) Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2016 and 2015; (ii) Consolidated Income Statements for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014; (iii) Consolidated Statements of Stockholder's Equity for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014; (iv) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014; and (v) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements *
2018 (File No. 001-36713), filed on February 8, 2019).
99.2
101.INSXBRL Instance Document. *
101.SCHXBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document. *
101.CALXBRL Taxonomy Calculation Linkbase Document. *
101.LABXBRL Taxonomy Label Linkbase Document. *
101.PREXBRL Taxonomy Presentation Linkbase Document. *
101.DEFXBRL Taxonomy Definition Document. *
   
#CONFIDENTIAL PORTION has been omitted pursuant to a request for confidential treatment by us to, and the material has been separately filed with, the SEC.  Each omitted Confidential Portion is marked by three asterisks.
*Filed herewith.
**Furnished herewith.
   

Item 16.  Form 10-K Summary.


Not applicable



SIGNATURES


Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) 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.

GCI, INC.

 By:/s/ Gregory F. Chapados GCI, LLC
  
Gregory F. Chapados, President
(Chief Executive Officer)
 

Date:March 2, 2017February 28, 2019By:/s/ Gregory B. Maffei
 Gregory B. Maffei
Chief Executive Officer and President
Date:February 28, 2019By:/s/ Mark D. Carleton
Mark D. Carleton
Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer)

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrantRegistrant and in the capacities and on the date indicated.

Signature Title Date
     
/s/ Gregory F. ChapadosB. Maffei 
President and Director
(PrincipalChief Executive Officer)
Officer
 March 2, 2017February 28, 2019
Gregory F. ChapadosB. Maffei
Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and
/s/ Mark D. CarletonPrincipal Accounting Officer)February 28, 2019
Mark D. Carleton   
     
/s/ Peter J. PoundsMark D. Carleton Chief Financial Officer Secretary, Treasurer, and Director (Principal Financial Officer)of GCI Liberty, Inc., as March 2, 2017February 28, 2019
Peter J. PoundsMark D. Carleton Sole Member-Manager of the Registrant  
     
/s/ Lynda L. Tarbath
Vice President, Chief Accounting
Officer (Principal Accounting Officer)
March 2, 2017
Lynda L. Tarbath


87
IV-4