UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D. C.  20549
 
FORM 10-Q
 
ý          QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2017March 31, 2018
OR
o             TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from            to
 
Commission File Number 333-110025
 MONITRONICS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
State of Texas 74-2719343
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
incorporation or organization)  
1990 Wittington Place  
Farmers Branch, Texas 75234
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (972) 243-7443 

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 ý  No o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (Section 232.405 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 ý  No o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer," "smaller reporting company, as defined" and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer o
 
Accelerated filer o
Non-accelerated filer x
 
Smaller reporting company o
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company) 
Emerging growth company o
 
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. o

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes o No ý

As of November 3, 2017,May 10, 2018, Monitronics International, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Ascent Capital Group, Inc.



Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
  Page
   
PART I — FINANCIAL INFORMATION
   
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
 


Item 1.1.Financial Statements (unaudited).
MONITRONICS INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
Amounts in thousands, except share amounts
(unaudited)
September 30,
2017
 December 31,
2016
March 31,
2018
 December 31,
2017
Assets 
  
 
  
Current assets: 
  
 
  
Cash and cash equivalents$28,250
 $3,177
$27,901
 3,302
Trade receivables, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $3,381 in 2017 and $3,043 in 201613,206
 13,869
Restricted cash93
 
Trade receivables, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $3,632 in 2018 and $4,162 in 201712,300
 12,645
Prepaid and other current assets8,743
 9,360
23,193
 10,668
Total current assets50,199
 26,406
63,487
 26,615
Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $35,239 in 2017 and $28,825 in 201630,953
 28,270
Subscriber accounts, net of accumulated amortization of $1,383,804 in 2017 and $1,212,468 in 20161,333,627
 1,386,760
Dealer network and other intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $40,348 in 2017 and $32,976 in 20169,452
 16,824
Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $40,257 in 2018 and $37,643 in 201734,043
 32,789
Subscriber accounts and deferred contract acquisition costs, net of accumulated amortization of $1,468,359 in 2018 and $1,439,164 in 20171,224,937
 1,302,028
Dealer network and other intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $45,859 in 2018 and $42,806 in 20173,941
 6,994
Goodwill563,549
 563,549
563,549
 563,549
Other assets6,868
 11,908
27,627
 9,340
Total assets$1,994,648
 $2,033,717
$1,917,584
 1,941,315
Liabilities and Stockholder's Equity 
  
 
  
Current liabilities: 
  
 
  
Accounts payable$10,455
 $11,461
$12,858
 11,073
Accrued payroll and related liabilities5,683
 4,068
5,556
 3,458
Other accrued liabilities61,392
 31,579
61,728
 50,026
Deferred revenue14,191
 15,147
13,477
 13,871
Holdback liability10,706
 13,916
7,601
 9,309
Current portion of long-term debt11,000
 11,000
11,000
 11,000
Total current liabilities113,427
 87,171
112,220
 98,737
Non-current liabilities: 
  
 
  
Long-term debt1,720,193
 1,687,778
1,711,336
 1,707,297
Long-term holdback liability1,982
 2,645
2,191
 2,658
Derivative financial instruments16,122
 16,948
6,553
 13,491
Deferred income tax liability, net20,488
 17,330
13,966
 13,304
Other liabilities6,506
 6,900
3,098
 3,092
Total liabilities1,878,718
 1,818,772
1,849,364
 1,838,579
Commitments and contingencies

 



 

Stockholder's equity:      
Common stock, $.01 par value. 1,000 shares authorized, issued and outstanding both at September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016
 
Common stock, $.01 par value. 1,000 shares authorized, issued and outstanding both at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017
 
Additional paid-in capital448,965
 446,826
444,335
 444,330
Accumulated deficit(319,577) (222,924)(383,751) (334,219)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss(13,458) (8,957)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net7,636
 (7,375)
Total stockholder's equity115,930
 214,945
68,220
 102,736
Total liabilities and stockholder's equity$1,994,648
 $2,033,717
$1,917,584
 1,941,315
 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

MONITRONICS INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Amounts in thousands
(unaudited)
 
Three Months Ended 
 September 30,
 Nine Months Ended 
 September 30,
Three Months Ended 
 March 31,
2017 2016 2017 20162018 2017
Net revenue$138,211
 142,765
 $419,909
 429,689
$133,753
 141,200
Operating expenses:          
Cost of services30,213
 29,049
 89,799
 86,161
32,701
 29,969
Selling, general and administrative, including stock-based compensation33,474
 29,727
 126,759
 87,543
Selling, general and administrative, including stock-based and long-term incentive compensation32,014
 32,723
Radio conversion costs74
 1,263
 383
 17,938

 232
Amortization of subscriber accounts, dealer network and other intangible assets59,384
 62,156
 178,896
 185,415
Amortization of subscriber accounts, deferred contract acquisition costs and other intangible assets54,411
 59,547
Depreciation2,170
 2,084
 6,415
 6,084
2,615
 2,120
125,315
 124,279
 402,252
 383,141
121,741
 124,591
Operating income12,896
 18,486
 17,657
 46,548
12,012
 16,609
Other expense:          
Interest expense36,665
 30,211
 108,980
 91,459
36,873
 35,838
Refinancing expense
 9,348
 
 9,348
36,665
 39,559
 108,980
 100,807
36,873
 35,838
Loss before income taxes(23,769) (21,073) (91,323) (54,259)(24,861) (19,229)
Income tax expense1,767
 1,929
 5,330
 5,462
1,346
 1,784
Net loss(25,536) (23,002) (96,653) (59,721)(26,207) (21,013)
Other comprehensive income (loss):          
Unrealized gain (loss) on derivative contracts, net227
 (2,459) (4,501) (19,001)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax227
 (2,459) (4,501) (19,001)
Unrealized gain on derivative contracts, net14,406
 1,049
Total other comprehensive income, net of tax14,406
 1,049
Comprehensive loss$(25,309) (25,461) $(101,154) $(78,722)$(11,801) (19,964)
 
See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.


MONITRONICS INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Amounts in thousands
(unaudited)
Nine Months Ended 
 September 30,
Three Months Ended 
 March 31,
2017 20162018 2017
Cash flows from operating activities:      
Net loss$(96,653) (59,721)$(26,207) (21,013)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities:      
Amortization of subscriber accounts, dealer network and other intangible assets178,896
 185,415
Amortization of subscriber accounts, deferred contract acquisition costs and other intangible assets54,411
 59,547
Depreciation6,415
 6,084
2,615
 2,120
Stock-based compensation2,759
 1,870
Stock-based and long-term incentive compensation(12) 518
Deferred income tax expense3,158
 3,158
662
 1,052
Legal settlement reserve, net of cash payments23,000
 
Amortization of debt discount and deferred debt costs5,065
 5,312
1,789
 1,656
Bad debt expense7,888
 7,855
3,017
 2,557
Refinancing expense
 9,348
Other non-cash activity, net4,659
 2,327
(852) 1,875
Changes in assets and liabilities:      
Trade receivables(7,225) (7,906)(2,672) (1,659)
Prepaid expenses and other assets(1,453) 99
650
 1,079
Subscriber accounts - deferred contract costs(2,299) (2,080)
Contract asset, net(70) 
Subscriber accounts - deferred contract acquisition costs(898) (754)
Payables and other liabilities3,017
 7,307
17,921
 5,222
Net cash provided by operating activities127,227
 159,068
50,354
 52,200
Cash flows from investing activities: 
  
 
  
Capital expenditures(9,999) (5,071)(3,310) (1,694)
Cost of subscriber accounts acquired(119,081) (160,117)(24,560) (46,708)
Decrease in restricted cash
 55
Increase in restricted cash(93) 
Net cash used in investing activities(129,080) (165,133)(27,963) (48,402)
Cash flows from financing activities:      
Proceeds from long-term debt159,850
 1,249,000
50,000
 64,750
Payments on long-term debt(132,500) (1,200,009)(47,750) (42,600)
Value of shares withheld for share-based compensation(424) (109)(42) (136)
Payments of financing costs
 (16,711)
Net cash provided by financing activities26,926
 32,171
2,208
 22,014
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents25,073
 26,106
24,599
 25,812
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period3,177
 2,580
3,302
 3,177
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period$28,250
 28,686
$27,901
 28,989
   
Supplemental cash flow information:      
State taxes paid, net$3,107
 2,747
$
 3
Interest paid90,637
 76,411
21,735
 21,462
Accrued capital expenditures386
 638
830
 780
 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

MONITRONICS INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Stockholder’s Equity
Amounts in thousands, except share amounts
(unaudited)
 
Common Stock 
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
 
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive Loss
 Accumulated Deficit 
Total
Stockholder’s Equity
Common Stock Additional Paid-in Capital Accumulated Deficit 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
 Total Stockholder’s Equity
Shares Amount Shares Amount 
Balance at December 31, 20161,000
 $
 446,826
 (8,957) (222,924) $214,945
Balance at December 31, 20171,000
 $
 444,330
 (334,219) (7,375) $102,736
Impact of adoption of Topic 606
 
 
 (22,720) 
 (22,720)
Impact of adoption of ASU 2017-12
 
 
 (605) 605
 
Adjusted balance at January 1, 20181,000
 
 444,330
 (357,544) (6,770) 80,016
Net loss
 
 
 
 (96,653) (96,653)
 
 
 (26,207) 
 (26,207)
Other comprehensive loss
 
 
 (4,501) 
 (4,501)
Other comprehensive income
 
 
 
 14,406
 14,406
Stock-based compensation
 
 2,563
 
 
 2,563

 
 47
 
 
 47
Value of shares withheld for minimum tax liability
 
 (424) 
 
 (424)
 
 (42) 
 
 (42)
Balance at September 30, 20171,000
 $
 448,965
 (13,458) (319,577) $115,930
Balance at March 31, 20181,000
 $
 444,335
 (383,751) 7,636
 $68,220
 
See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.


MONITRONICS INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
 
(1)    Basis of Presentation
 
Monitronics International, Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively, the "Company" or "MONI") are wholly owned subsidiaries of Ascent Capital Group, Inc. ("Ascent Capital").  MONI provides residential customers and commercial client accounts with monitored home and business security systems, as well as interactive and home automation services.  MONI is supported by a network of independent Authorized Dealers providing products and support to customers in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.  MONI’s wholly owned subsidiary, LiveWatch Security LLC (“LiveWatch”) is a Do-It-Yourself home security firm, offering professionally monitored security services through a direct-to-consumer sales channel.

On February 26, 2018, we entered into an exclusive, long-term, trademark licensing agreement with The Brink’s Company ("Brink's"), which will result in a complete rebranding of MONI and LiveWatch as Brinks Home SecurityTM. Under the terms of the agreement, we will have exclusive use of the BRINKS and Brinks Home Security trademarks related to the residential smart home and home security categories in the U.S. and Canada. Effective April 1, 2018, we will pay Brink’s customary licensing fees and minimum and growth-based royalties that will increase over time as the Brinks Home Security brand is reintroduced. The agreement provides for an initial term of seven years and, subject to certain conditions, allows for subsequent renewal periods whereby MONI can extend the agreement beyond 20 years. The Company is currently completing rebranding tasks, as well as integration tasks, such that the MONI and LiveWatch sales channels will be combined under the Brinks Home Security brand. The brand rollout is expected to occur in the second quarter of 2018.

The unaudited interim financial information of the Company has been prepared in accordance with Article 10 of the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (the "SEC") Regulation S-X. Accordingly, it does not include all of the information required by generally accepted accounting principles in the United States ("U.S. GAAP") for complete financial statements. The Company’s unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements as of September 30, 2017,March 31, 2018, and for the three and nine months ended September 30,March 31, 2018 and 2017, and 2016, include MONI and all of its direct and indirect subsidiaries.  The accompanying interim condensed consolidated financial statements are unaudited but, in the opinion of management, reflect all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) necessary for a fair presentation of the results for such periods. The results of operations for any interim period are not necessarily indicative of results for the full year.  These condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the MONI Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016,2017, filed with the SEC on March 13, 2017 (the "2016 Form 10-K"7, 2018.

The Company adopted Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) ("Topic 606") using the modified retrospective approach on January 1, 2018, at which time it became effective for the Company. The Company recognized the cumulative effect of initially applying the new revenue standard as an adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings. The Company also adopted ASU 2017-12, Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities ("ASU 2017-12") which simplifies the application of hedge accounting guidance. The standard was early adopted effective January 1, 2018, and the Company recognized an opening equity adjustment to reduce Accumulated deficit, offset by a gain in Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). The comparative information has not been restated and continues to be reported under the accounting standards in effect during those periods. See note 2, Recent Accounting Pronouncements, and note 3, Revenue Recognition, in the notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements for further discussion.
 
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of revenue and expenses for each reporting period.  The significant estimates made in preparation of the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements primarily relate to valuation of goodwill, other intangible assets, long-lived assets,subscriber accounts, valuation of deferred tax assets derivative financial instruments, and the amountvaluation of the allowance for doubtful accounts.goodwill. These estimates are based on management’s best estimates and judgment. Management evaluates its estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis using historical experience and other factors and adjusts them when facts and circumstances change. As the effects of future events cannot be determined with any certainty, actual results could differ from the estimates upon which the carrying values were based.

(2)    Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In May 2014,February 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the "FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) ("ASU 2014-09"). Under the update, revenue will be recognized based on a five-step model. The core principle of the model is that revenue will be recognized when the transfer of promised goods or services to customers is made in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. In the third quarter of 2015, the FASB deferred the effective date of the standard to annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2017. In March and April 2016, the FASB issued amendments to provide clarification on assessment of collectability criteria, presentation of sales taxes and measurement of non-cash consideration. In addition, the amendment provided clarification and included simplification to transaction guidance on contract modifications and completed contracts at transaction. In December 2016, the FASB issued amendments to provide clarification on codification and guidance application. The standard allows the option of either a full retrospective adoption, meaning the standard is applied to all periods presented, or modified retrospective adoption, meaning the standard is applied only to the most current period.

The Company currently plans to adopt ASU 2014-09 using the modified retrospective approach. However, a final decision regarding the adoption method has not been made at this time. The Company's final determination will depend on the significance of the impact of the new standard on the Company's financial results.

The Company is continuing its evaluation of the impact of ASU 2014-09 on the accounting policies, processes, and system requirements. The Company has assigned internal resources in addition to the engagement of a third party service provider to assist in the evaluation. While the Company is in the process of assessing revenue recognition and cost deferral policies across each type of its contracts, the Company does not know or cannot reasonably estimate the impact of the adoption ASU 2014-09 on its financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) ("ASU 2016-02"). ASU 2016-02 requires the lessee to recognize assets and liabilities for leases with lease terms of more than twelve months. For leases with a term of twelve months

or less, the Company is permitted to make an accounting policy election by class of underlying asset not to recognize lease assets and lease liabilities. Further, ASU 2016-02 requires a finance lease to be recognized as both an interest expense and an amortization of the associated expense.asset. Operating leases generally recognize the

associated expense on a straight line basis. ASU 2016-02 requires the Company to adopt the standard using a modified retrospective approach and becomes effective on January 1, 2019. The Company is currently evaluating the impact that ASU 2016-02 will have on its financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment ("ASU 2017-04"). Currently, the fair value of the reporting unit is compared with the carrying value of the reporting unit (identified as "Step 1"). If the fair value of the reporting unit is lower than its carrying amount, then the implied fair value of goodwill is calculated. If the implied fair value of goodwill is lower than the carrying value of goodwill an impairment is recognized (identified as "Step 2"). ASU 2017-04 eliminates Step 2 from the impairment test; therefore, a goodwill impairment will be recognized as the difference of the fair value and the carrying value. ASU 2017-04 becomes effective on January 1, 2020 with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating when to adopt the standard.

In May 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-09, Compensation-Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Scope of Modification Accounting ("ASU 2017-09"). ASU 2017-09 requires modification accounting in Topic 718 to be applied to a change to the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award unless the fair value, vesting conditions and classification of the modified award are the same immediately before and after the modification of the award. ASU 2017-09 is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and requires a prospective approach. Early adoption is permitted. The Company plans to adopt the standard when it becomes effective. The adoption is not expected to have a material impact on the Company's financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

In August 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-12Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities ("ASU 2017-12") to amend the hedge accounting rules to align risk management activities and financial reporting by simplifying the application of hedge accounting guidance. The guidance expands the ability to hedge nonfinancial and financial risk components and eliminates the requirement to separately measure and report hedge ineffectiveness. Additionally, certain hedge effectiveness assessment requirements may be accomplished qualitatively instead of quantitatively. ASU 2017-12 is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2018 with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact thatearly adopted ASU 2017-12 willeffective January 1, 2018, and as such, an opening equity adjustment of $605,000 was recognized that reduced Accumulated deficit, offset by a gain in Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). This adjustment primarily relates to the derecognition of the cumulative ineffectiveness recorded on the Company's interest rate swap derivative instruments, as well as adjustments to cumulative dedesignation adjustments. The Company does not expect this adoption to have a material impact on its financial position, results of operations andor cash flows.flows on an ongoing basis.

(3)    Revenue Recognition

Topic 606 amends and supersedes FASB Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topic 605, Revenue Recognition ("Topic 605"). The core principle of Topic 606 is that revenue will be recognized when the transfer of promised goods or services to customers is made in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services.

Accounting Policy for Periods Commencing January 1, 2018

The Company offers its subscribers professional alarm monitoring services, as well as interactive and home automation services, through equipment at the subscriber's site that communicates with the Company’s central monitoring station and interfaces with other equipment at the site and third party technology companies for interactive and home automation services. These services are typically provided under alarm monitoring agreements (“AMAs”) between the Company and the subscriber. The equipment at the site is either obtained independently from the Company’s network of third party Authorized Dealers or directly from the Company, via its direct-to-consumer sales channel. The Company also offers equipment sales and installation services and, to its existing subscribers, maintenance services on existing alarm equipment. The Company also collects fees for contract monitoring, which are services provided to other security alarm companies for monitoring their accounts on a wholesale basis and other fees from subscribers for late fee or insufficient fund charges.

Revenue under subscriber AMAs is allocated to alarm monitoring revenue and, if applicable, product and installation revenue based on the stand alone selling prices (“SSP”) of each performance obligation as a percentage of the total SSP of all performance obligations. Allocated alarm monitoring revenue is recognized as the monthly service is provided. Allocated product and installation revenue is recognized when the product sale is complete or shipped and the installation service is provided, typically at inception of the AMA. Product and installation revenue is not applicable to AMA's acquired from Authorized Dealers in their initial term. Any cash not received from the subscriber at the time of product sale and installation is recognized as a contract asset at inception of the AMA and is subsequently amortized over the subscriber contract term as a reduction of the amounts billed for professional alarm monitoring, interactive and home automation services. If a subscriber cancels the AMA within the negotiated term, any existing contract asset is determined to be impaired and is immediately expensed in full to Selling, general and administrative expense on the condensed consolidated statement of operations.

Maintenance services are billed and recognized as revenue when the services are completed in the home and agreed to by the subscriber under the subscriber AMA. Contract monitoring fees are recognized as alarm monitoring revenue as the monitoring service is provided. Other fees are recognized as other revenue when billed to the subscriber which coincides with the timing of when the services are provided.


Disaggregation of Revenue

Revenue is disaggregated by source of revenue as follows (in thousands):
 Three Months Ended 
 March 31,
 2018 2017
Alarm monitoring revenue$124,840
 136,891
Product and installation revenue8,147
 3,294
Other revenue766
 1,015
Total Net revenue$133,753
 141,200

Contract Balances

The following table provides information about receivables, contract assets and contract liabilities from contracts with customers (in thousands):
 March 31, 2018 At adoption
Trade receivables, net$12,300
 12,645
Contract assets, net - current portion (a)13,543
 14,197
Contract assets, net - long-term portion (b)11,101
 10,377
Deferred revenue13,477
 12,892
(a)Amount is included in Prepaid and other current assets in the unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheets.
(b)Amount is included in Other assets in the unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheets.

Changes in Accounting Policies

The Company adopted Topic 606, effective January 1, 2018, using the modified retrospective transition method. Under the modified retrospective transition method, the Company evaluated active AMAs on the adoption date as if each AMA had been accounted for under Topic 606 from its inception. Some revenue related to AMAs originated through our direct-to-consumer channel or through extensions that would have been recognized in future periods under Topic 605 were recast under Topic 606 as if revenue had been accelerated and recognized in prior periods, as it will be allocated to product and installation performance obligations. A contract asset was recorded as of the adoption date for any cash that has yet to be collected on the accelerated revenue. As this transition method requires that the Company not adjust historical reported revenue amounts, the accelerated revenue that would have been recognized under this method prior to the adoption date was recorded as an adjustment to opening retained earnings and, thus, will not be recognized as revenue in future periods as previously required under Topic 605. Therefore, the comparative information has not been adjusted and continues to be reported under Topic 605.

Under Topic 605, revenue provided under the AMA was recognized as the services were provided, based on the recurring monthly revenue amount billed for each month under contract. Product, installation and service revenue generally was recognized as billed and incurred. Under Topic 606, the Company concluded that certain product and installation services sold or provided to our customers at AMA inception are capable of being distinct and are distinct within the context of the contract. As such, when the Company initiates an AMA with a customer directly and provides equipment and installation services, each component is considered a performance obligation that must have revenue allocated accordingly. The allocation is based on the SSP of each performance obligation as a percentage of the total SSP of all performance obligations multiplied by the total consideration, or cash, expected to be received over the contract term. These AMAs may relate to new customers originated by the Company through its direct-to-consumer channel or existing customers who agree to new contract terms through customer service offerings. For AMAs with multiple performance obligations, management notes that a certain amount of the revenue billed on a recurring monthly basis is recognized earlier under Topic 606 than it was recognized under Topic 605, as a portion of that revenue is allocated to the equipment sale and installation, which is satisfied upon delivery of the product and performance of the installation services at AMA inception.

Revenue on AMAs originated through the Authorized Dealer program are not impacted by Topic 606 in their initial term, as the customer contracts for the equipment sale and installation separately with the Authorized Dealer prior to the Company purchasing the AMA from the Authorized Dealer. Revenue on these customers is recognized as the service is provided based

on the recurring monthly revenue amount billed for each month of the AMA. Maintenance service revenue for repair of existing alarm equipment at the subscribers' premises will continue to be billed and recognized based on their SSP at the time the Company performs the services.

Topic 606 also requires the deferral of incremental costs of obtaining a contract with a customer. Certain direct and incremental costs were capitalized under Topic 605, including on new AMAs obtained in connection with a subscriber move (“Moves Costs”). Under Topic 606, Moves Costs are expensed as incurred to accompany the allocated revenue recognized upon product and installation performance obligations recognized at the AMA inception. There are no other significant changes in contract costs that are capitalized or the period over which they are expensed.

Impacts on Financial Statements

The significant effects of adopting Topic 606 are changes to Prepaid and other current assets, Subscriber accounts, net, Other assets, net, Net revenue, Cost of services, Selling, general and administrative and Amortization of subscriber accounts for the period beginning January 1, 2018 for AMAs initiated by the Company with the customer directly with multiple performance obligations, as a portion of that revenue is allocated to the equipment sale and installation, which is satisfied upon delivery of the product and performance of the installation services at AMA inception.

The following tables summarize the impacts of adopting Topic 606 on the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements as of and for the three months ended March 31, 2018 (in thousands):


i. Condensed consolidated balance sheets
 Impact of changes in accounting policies
 
As reported
March 31, 2018
 Adjustments Balances without adoption of Topic 606
Assets     
Current assets:     
Cash and cash equivalents$27,901
 
 27,901
Restricted cash93
 
 93
Trade receivables, net of allowance for doubtful accounts12,300
 
 12,300
Prepaid and other current assets23,193
 (13,543) 9,650
Total current assets63,487
 (13,543) 49,944
Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation34,043
 
 34,043
Subscriber accounts and deferred contract acquisition costs, net of accumulated amortization1,224,937
 48,249
 1,273,186
Dealer network and other intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization3,941
 
 3,941
Goodwill563,549
 
 563,549
Other assets, net27,627
 (11,101) 16,526
Total assets$1,917,584
 23,605
 1,941,189
Liabilities and Stockholder’s Equity 
    
Current liabilities:     
Accounts payable$12,858
 
 12,858
Accrued payroll and related liabilities5,556
 
 5,556
Other accrued liabilities61,728
 
 61,728
Deferred revenue13,477
 1,192
 14,669
Holdback liability7,601
 
 7,601
Current portion of long-term debt11,000
 
 11,000
Total current liabilities112,220
 1,192
 113,412
Non-current liabilities: 
    
Long-term debt1,711,336
 
 1,711,336
Long-term holdback liability2,191
 
 2,191
Derivative financial instruments6,553
 
 6,553
Deferred income tax liability, net13,966
 
 13,966
Other liabilities3,098
 
 3,098
Total liabilities1,849,364
 1,192
 1,850,556
Commitments and contingencies

 
 
Stockholder’s equity:     
Common stock
 
 
Additional paid-in capital444,335
 
 444,335
Accumulated deficit(383,751) 22,413
 (361,338)
Accumulated other comprehensive income, net7,636
 
 7,636
Total stockholder’s equity68,220
 22,413
 90,633
Total liabilities and stockholder’s equity$1,917,584
 23,605
 1,941,189


ii. Condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss)
 Impact of changes in accounting policies
 
As reported three months ended
March 31, 2018
 Adjustments Balances without adoption of Topic 606
Net revenue$133,753
 (325) 133,428
Operating expenses: 
    
Cost of services32,701
 (1,922) 30,779
Selling, general and administrative, including stock-based and long-term incentive compensation32,014
 21
 32,035
Amortization of subscriber accounts, deferred contract acquisition costs and other intangible assets54,411
 1,883
 56,294
Depreciation2,615
 
 2,615
 121,741
 (18) 121,723
Operating income12,012
 (307) 11,705
Other expense: 
    
Interest expense36,873
 
 36,873
 36,873
 
 36,873
Loss before income taxes(24,861) (307) (25,168)
Income tax expense1,346
 
 1,346
Net loss(26,207) (307) (26,514)
Other comprehensive income (loss): 
    
Unrealized gain on derivative contracts, net14,406
 
 14,406
Total other comprehensive income, net of tax14,406
 
 14,406
Comprehensive loss$(11,801) (307) (12,108)


iii. Condensed consolidated statements of cash flows
 Impact of changes in accounting policies
 
As reported three months ended
March 31, 2018
 Adjustments Balances without adoption of Topic 606
Cash flows from operating activities:     
Net loss$(26,207) (307) (26,514)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities: 
    
Amortization of subscriber accounts, deferred contract acquisition costs and other intangible assets54,411
 1,883
 56,294
Depreciation2,615
 
 2,615
Stock-based and long-term incentive compensation(12) 
 (12)
Deferred income tax expense662
 
 662
Amortization of debt discount and deferred debt costs1,789
 
 1,789
Bad debt expense3,017
 
 3,017
Other non-cash activity, net(852) 
 (852)
Changes in assets and liabilities:     
Trade receivables(2,672) 
 (2,672)
Prepaid expenses and other assets650
 
 650
Contract asset, net(70) 70
 
Subscriber accounts - deferred contract acquisition costs(898) 63
 (835)
Payables and other liabilities17,921
 388
 18,309
Net cash provided by operating activities50,354
 2,097
 52,451
Cash flows from investing activities: 
    
Capital expenditures(3,310) 
 (3,310)
Cost of subscriber accounts acquired(24,560) (2,097) (26,657)
Increase in restricted cash(93) 
 (93)
Net cash used in investing activities(27,963) (2,097) (30,060)
Cash flows from financing activities: 
    
Proceeds from long-term debt50,000
 
 50,000
Payments on long-term debt(47,750) 
 (47,750)
Value of shares withheld for share-based compensation(42) 
 (42)
Net cash provided by financing activities2,208
 
 2,208
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents24,599
 
 24,599
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period3,302
 
 3,302
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period$27,901
 
 27,901



(4)    Goodwill

The following table provides the activity and balances of goodwill by reporting unit (amounts in thousands):
  MONI LiveWatch Total
Balance at 12/31/2017 $527,502
 $36,047
 $563,549
Period activity 
 
 
Balance at 3/31/2018 $527,502
 $36,047
 $563,549

The Company accounts for its goodwill pursuant to the provisions of FASB ASC Topic 350, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other ("FASB ASC Topic 350"). In accordance with FASB ASC Topic 350, goodwill is not amortized, but rather tested for impairment annually, or earlier if an event occurs, or circumstances change, that indicate the fair value of a reporting unit may be below its carrying amount.

In the first quarter of 2018, the Company determined that a triggering event had occurred due to a sustained decrease in the Company's share price. In response to the triggering event, the Company performed a quantitative impairment test noting that the estimated fair value for each of the Company's reporting units exceeded the carrying amount of the underlying assets. Thus no impairment was indicated.

(5)    Other Accrued Liabilities
 
Other accrued liabilities consisted of the following (amounts in thousands): 
September 30, 2017 December 31, 2016March 31,
2018
 December 31,
2017
Interest payable$27,549
 $14,588
$27,789
 $14,835
Income taxes payable2,040
 2,947
3,487
 2,839
Legal accrual, including settlement reserve23,378
(a)271
LiveWatch acquisition retention bonus
 4,990
Derivative financial instruments1,631
 
Legal settlement reserve (a)23,000
 23,000
Other6,794
 8,783
7,452
 9,352
Total Other accrued liabilities$61,392
 $31,579
$61,728
 $50,026
 
(a)        Amount includes $23,000,000 related to a legal settlement reserve. See note 8,10, Commitments, Contingencies and Other Liabilities, for further information.


(4)(6)    Long-Term Debt
 
Long-term debt consisted of the following (amounts in thousands):
September 30,
2017
 December 31,
2016
March 31,
2018
 December 31,
2017
9.125% Senior Notes due April 1, 2020 with an effective interest rate of 9.5%$579,525
 $578,078
$580,536
 $580,026
Promissory Note to Ascent Capital due October 1, 2020 with an effective rate of 12.5% (a)12,000
 12,000
Term loan, matures September 30, 2022, LIBOR plus 5.50%, subject to a LIBOR floor of 1.00% with an effective rate of 7.2%1,061,199
 1,066,130
$295 million revolving credit facility, matures September 30, 2021, LIBOR plus 4.00%, subject to a LIBOR floor of 1.00% with an effective rate of 5.1%78,469
 42,570
Ascent Intercompany Loan due October 1, 2020 with an effective rate of 12.5% (a)12,000
 12,000
Term loan, matures September 30, 2022, LIBOR plus 5.50%, subject to a LIBOR floor of 1.00%, with an effective rate of 7.7%1,058,020
 1,059,598
$295 million revolving credit facility, matures September 30, 2021, LIBOR plus 4.00%, subject to a LIBOR floor of 1.00%, with an effective rate of 6.0%71,780
 66,673
1,731,193
 1,698,778
1,722,336
 1,718,297
Less current portion of long-term debt(11,000) (11,000)(11,000) (11,000)
Long-term debt$1,720,193
 $1,687,778
$1,711,336
 $1,707,297
 
(a)The effective rate was 9.868% until February 29, 2016.
 
Senior Notes
 
The senior notes total $585,000,000 in principal, mature on April 1, 2020 and bear interest at 9.125% per annum (the "Senior Notes").  Interest payments are due semi-annually on April 1 and October 1 of each year. Ascent Capital has not guaranteed

any of the Company's obligations under the Senior Notes. As of September 30, 2017,March 31, 2018, the Senior Notes had deferred financing costs, net of accumulated amortization of $5,475,000.$4,464,000.

The Senior Notes are guaranteed by all of the Company's existing domestic subsidiaries. See note 10,12, Consolidating Guarantor Financial Information for further information.

Ascent Intercompany Loan
 
On February 29, 2016, the Company retired the existing intercompany loan with an outstanding principal amount of $100,000,000 and executed and delivered a Promissory Note to Ascent Capital in a principal amount of $12,000,000 (the "Ascent Intercompany Loan"), with the $88,000,000 remaining principal being treated as a capital contribution.  The entire principal amount under the Ascent Intercompany Loan is due on October 1, 2020.  The Company may prepay any portion of the balance of the Ascent Intercompany Loan at any time from time to time without fee, premium or penalty (subject to certain financial covenants associated with the Company’s other indebtedness).  Any unpaid balance of the Ascent Intercompany Loan bears interest at a rate equal to 12.5% per annum, payable semi-annually in cash in arrears on January 12 and July 12 of each year.  Borrowings under the Ascent Intercompany Loan constitute unsecured obligations of the Company and are not guaranteed by any of the Company’s subsidiaries.
 
Credit Facility

On September 30, 2016, the Company entered into an amendment ("Amendment No. 6") with the lenders of its existing senior secured credit agreement dated March 23, 2012, and as amended and restated on April 9, 2015, February 17, 2015, August 16, 2013, March 25, 2013, and November 7, 2012 (the "Existing Credit Agreement"). Amendment No. 6 provided for, among other things, the issuance of a $1,100,000,000 senior secured term loan at a 1.5% discount and a new $295,000,000 super priority revolver (the Existing Credit Agreement together with Amendment No. 6, the "Credit Facility").

On September 28, 2017,March 29, 2018, the Company borrowed an incremental $26,691,000 on its Credit Facility revolver to fund its OctoberApril 2, 20172018 interest payment due under the Senior Notes.

As of September 30, 2017,March 31, 2018, the Credit Facility term loan has a principal amount of $1,089,000,000,$1,083,500,000, maturing on September 30, 2022. The term loan requires quarterly interest payments and quarterly principal payments of $2,750,000. The term loan bears interest at LIBOR plus 5.5%, subject to a LIBOR floor of 1.0%. The Credit Facility revolver has a principal amount outstanding of $80,400,000$73,500,000 as of September 30, 2017March 31, 2018 and matures on September 30, 2021. The Credit Facility revolver bears interest at LIBOR plus 4.0%, subject to a LIBOR floor of 1.0%. There is a commitment fee of 0.5% on unused portions of the Credit Facility Revolver.revolver. As of September 30, 2017, $214,600,000March 31, 2018, $221,500,000 is available for borrowing under the Credit Facility revolver.revolver subject to certain financial covenants.

AtThe maturity date for both the term loan and the revolving credit facility under the Credit Facility are subject to a springing maturity 181 days prior to the scheduled maturity date of the Senior Notes, or October 3, 2019 (the "Springing Maturity") if we are unable to refinance the Senior Notes by that date. In addition, at any time after the occurrence of an event of default under the Credit Facility, the lenders may, among other options, declare any amounts outstanding under the Credit Facility immediately due and payable and terminate any commitment to make further loans under the Credit Facility. In addition,Also, failure to comply with restrictions contained in the Senior Notes could lead to an event of default under the Credit Facility.

The Credit Facility is secured by a pledge of all of the outstanding stock of the Company and all of its existing subsidiaries and is guaranteed by all of the Company’s existing domestic subsidiaries.  Ascent Capital has not guaranteed any of the Company’s obligations under the Credit Facility.

As of September 30, 2017,March 31, 2018, the Company has deferred financing costs and unamortized discounts, net of accumulated amortization, of $29,732,000$27,200,000 related to the Credit Facility.

In order to reduce the financial risk related to changes in interest rates associated with the floating rate term loan under the Credit Facility term loan, the Company has entered into interest rate swap agreements with terms similar to the Credit Facility term loan (all outstanding interest rate swap agreements are collectively referred to as the “Swaps”). The Swaps have been designated as effective hedges of the Company’s variable rate debt and qualify for hedge accounting.  As a result of these interest rate swaps, the Company's current effective weighted average interest rate on the borrowings under the Credit Facility term loan is 7.18%.was 7.98% as of March 31, 2018. See note 5,7, Derivatives, for further disclosures related to these derivative instruments. 


The terms of the Senior Notes and the Credit Facility provide for certain financial and nonfinancial covenants.  As of September 30, 2017,March 31, 2018, the Company was in compliance with all required covenants under these financing arrangements.

As of September 30, 2017,March 31, 2018, principal payments scheduled to be made on the Company’s debt obligations, assuming no Springing Maturity of the Credit Facility, are as follows (amounts in thousands):
Remainder of 2017$2,750
201811,000
Remainder of 2018$8,250
201911,000
11,000
2020608,000
608,000
202191,400
84,500
20221,042,250
1,042,250
2023
Thereafter

Total principal payments1,766,400
1,754,000
Less:  
Unamortized deferred debt costs and discounts35,207
31,664
Total debt on condensed consolidated balance sheet$1,731,193
$1,722,336

(5)(7)    Derivatives
 
The Company utilizes interest rate swap agreementsSwaps to reduce the interest rate risk inherent in the Company's variable rate Credit Facility term loan. The valuation of these instruments is determined using widely accepted valuation techniques, including discounted cash flow analysis on the expected cash flows of each derivative. This analysis reflects the contractual terms of the derivatives, including the period to maturity, and uses observable market-based inputs, including interest rate curves and implied volatility. The Company incorporates credit valuation adjustments to appropriately reflect the respective counterparty’s nonperformance risk in the fair value measurements. See note 6,8, Fair Value Measurements, for additional information about the credit valuation adjustments.

All of the Swaps are designated and qualify as cash flow hedging instruments, with the effective portion of the Swaps' change in fair value recorded in Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).  Changes in the fair value of the Swaps recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are reclassified to Interest expense when the hedged interest payments on the underlying debt are recognized.  Amounts in Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) expected to be recognized as Interest expense in the coming 12 months total approximately $1,114,000.

As of September 30, 2017,March 31, 2018, the Swaps’ outstanding notional balances, effective dates, maturity dates and interest rates paid and received are noted below:
Notional Effective Date Maturity Date 
Fixed
Rate Paid
 Variable Rate Received
$519,750,000
 March 28, 2013 March 23, 2018 1.884% 3 mo. USD-LIBOR-BBA, subject to a 1.00% floor (a)
137,750,000
 March 28, 2013 March 23, 2018 1.384% 3 mo. USD-LIBOR-BBA, subject to a 1.00% floor (a)
107,694,723
 September 30, 2013 March 23, 2018 1.959% 3 mo. USD-LIBOR-BBA, subject to a 1.00% floor
107,694,723
 September 30, 2013 March 23, 2018 1.850% 3 mo. USD-LIBOR-BBA, subject to a 1.00% floor
191,475,002
 March 23, 2018 April 9, 2022 3.110% 3 mo. USD-LIBOR-BBA, subject to a 1.00% floor (a)
250,000,000
 March 23, 2018 April 9, 2022 3.110% 3 mo. USD-LIBOR-BBA, subject to a 1.00% floor (a)
50,000,000
 March 23, 2018 April 9, 2022 2.504% 3 mo. USD-LIBOR-BBA, subject to a 1.00% floor
377,000,000
 March 23, 2018 September 30, 2022 1.833% 3 mo. USD-LIBOR-BBA, subject to a 1.00% floor
Notional Effective Date Maturity Date Fixed Rate Paid Variable Rate Received
$190,982,778
 March 23, 2018 April 9, 2022 3.110% 3 mo. USD-LIBOR-BBA, subject to a 1.00% floor (a)
249,375,000
 March 23, 2018 April 9, 2022 3.110% 3 mo. USD-LIBOR-BBA, subject to a 1.00% floor (a)
49,875,000
 March 23, 2018 April 9, 2022 2.504% 3 mo. USD-LIBOR-BBA, subject to a 1.00% floor
376,057,500
 March 23, 2018 September 30, 2022 1.833% 3 mo. USD-LIBOR-BBA, subject to a 1.00% floor
 
(a) 
On March 25, 2013 and September 30, 2016, MONIthe Company negotiated amendments to the terms of these interest rate swap agreements (the "Existing Swap Agreements," as amended, the "Amended Swaps").  The Amended Swaps are held with the same counterparties as the Existing Swap Agreements.  Upon entering into the Amended Swaps, MONIthe Company simultaneously dedesignated the Existing Swap Agreements and redesignated the Amended Swaps as cash flow hedges for the underlying change in the swap terms.  The amounts previously recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive lossincome (loss) relating to the dedesignation are recognized in Interest expense over the remaining life of the Amended Swaps.

All of the Swaps are designated and qualify as cash flow hedging instruments, with the effective portion of the Swaps' change in fair value recorded in Accumulated other comprehensive loss.  Any ineffective portions of the Swaps' change in fair value are recognized in current earnings in Interest expense.  Changes in the fair value of the Swaps recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive loss are reclassified to Interest expense when the hedged interest payments on the underlying debt are recognized.  Amounts in Accumulated other comprehensive loss expected to be recognized in Interest expense in the coming 12 months total approximately $5,775,000.

The impact of the derivatives designated as cash flow hedges on the condensed consolidated financial statements is depicted below (amounts in thousands):
 Three Months Ended 
 September 30,
 Nine Months Ended 
 September 30,
 2017 2016 2017 2016
Effective portion of loss recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive loss$(914) (4,284) $(8,890) (24,447)
Effective portion of loss reclassified from Accumulated other comprehensive loss into Net loss (a)$(1,141) (1,825) $(4,389) (5,446)
Ineffective portion of amount of loss recognized into Net loss (a)$(65) 16
 $(157) (61)
 Three Months Ended 
 March 31,
 2018 2017
Effective portion of gain (loss) recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)$13,668
 (733)
Effective portion of loss reclassified from Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into Net loss (a)$(738) (1,782)
Ineffective portion of amount of loss recognized into Net loss (a)$
 18
 
(a)        Amounts are included in Interest expense in the unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss). Upon the adoption of ASU 2017-12 on January 1, 2018, ineffectiveness is no longer measured or recognized.

(6)
(8)    Fair Value Measurements
 
According to the FASB ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement, fair value is defined as the amount that would be received for selling an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants and requires that assets and liabilities carried at fair value are classified and disclosed in the following three categories:

Level 1 - Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets.
Level 2 - Quoted prices for similar instruments in active or inactive markets and valuations derived from models where all significant inputs are observable in active markets.
Level 3 - Valuations derived from valuation techniques in which one or more significant inputs are unobservable in any market.

The following summarizes the fair value level of assets and liabilities that are measured on a recurring basis at September 30, 2017March 31, 2018 and December 31, 20162017 (amounts in thousands): 
Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 TotalLevel 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total
September 30, 2017       
Interest rate swap agreement - assets (a)
 4,664
 
 4,664
March 31, 2018       
Interest rate swap agreements - assets (a)$
 13,833
 
 13,833
Interest rate swap agreements - liabilities (b)
 (17,753) 
 (17,753)
 (6,553) 
 (6,553)
Total$
 (13,089) 
 $(13,089)$
 7,280
 
 7,280
December 31, 2016       
Interest rate swap agreement - assets (a)
 8,521
 
 8,521
December 31, 2017       
Interest rate swap agreements - assets (a)$
 7,058
 
 7,058
Interest rate swap agreements - liabilities (b)
 (16,948) 
 (16,948)
 (13,817) 
 (13,817)
Total$
 (8,427) 
 $(8,427)$
 (6,759) 
 (6,759)
 
(a)Included in non-current Other assets on the condensed consolidated balance sheetssheets.
(b)Interest rate swap agreement liability values are includedIncluded in current Other accrued liabilities or non-current Derivative financial instruments on the condensed consolidated balance sheets depending on the maturity date of the swap.sheets.
 
The Company has determined that the significant inputs used to value the Swaps fall within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.  As a result, the Company has determined that its derivative valuations are classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
 
Carrying values and fair values of financial instruments that are not carried at fair value are as follows (amounts in thousands):
September 30, 2017 December 31, 2016March 31, 2018 December 31, 2017
Long term debt, including current portion:      
Carrying value$1,731,193
 $1,698,778
$1,722,336
 1,718,297
Fair value (a)1,696,403
 1,716,385
1,581,095
 1,645,616
 
(a) 
The fair value is based on market quotations from third party financial institutions and is classified as Level 2 in the hierarchy.

 
The Company’s other financial instruments, including cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable are carried at cost, which approximates their fair value because of their short-term maturity.


(7)(9)    Accumulated Other Comprehensive LossIncome (Loss)
 
The following table provides a summary of the changes in Accumulated other comprehensive lossincome (loss) for the period presented (amounts in thousands):
 
Accumulated
other
comprehensive
loss
Balance at December 31, 2016$(8,957)
Unrealized loss on derivatives recognized through Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of income tax of $0(8,890)
Reclassifications of unrealized loss on derivatives into Net loss, net of income tax of $0 (a)4,389
Net current period other comprehensive loss(4,501)
Balance at September 30, 2017$(13,458)
 
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
Balance at December 31, 2017$(7,375)
Impact of adoption of ASU 2017-12605
Adjusted balance at January 1, 2018(6,770)
Unrealized gain on derivatives recognized through Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of income tax of $013,668
Reclassifications of unrealized loss on derivatives into Net loss, net of income tax of $0 (a)738
Net current period other comprehensive income14,406
Balance at March 31, 2018$7,636
 
(a)
Amounts reclassified into net loss are included in Interest expense on the condensed consolidated statement of operations.  See note 5,7, Derivatives, for further information.
 
(8)(10)    Commitments, Contingencies and Other Liabilities
 
The Company was named as a defendant in multiple putative class actions consolidated in U.S. District Court (Northern District of West Virginia) on behalf of purported class(es) of persons who claim to have received telemarketing calls in violation of various state and federal laws. The actions were brought by plaintiffs seeking monetary damages on behalf of all plaintiffs who received telemarketing calls made by a Monitronics Authorized Dealer, or any Authorized Dealer’s lead generator or sub-dealer. In the second quarter of 2017, the Company and the plaintiffs agreed to settle this litigation for $28,000,000 ("the Settlement Amount"). The Company is actively seeking to recover the Settlement Amount under its insurance policies. The settlement agreement remains subject to court approval and the court’s entry of a final order dismissing the actions. In the third quarter of 2017, the Company paid $5,000,000 of the Settlement Amount pursuant to the settlement agreement with the plaintiffs.

In addition to the above, the Company is also involved in litigation and similar claims incidental to the conduct of its business, including from time to time, contractual disputes, claims related to alleged security system failures and claims related to alleged violations of the U.S. Telephone Consumer Protection Act. Matters that are probable of unfavorable outcome to the Company and which can be reasonably estimated are accrued. Such accruals are based on information known about the matters, management's estimate of the outcomes of such matters and experience in contesting, litigating and settling similar matters. In management's opinion, none of the pending actions are likely to have a material adverse impact on the Company's financial position or results of operations. The Company accrues and expenses legal fees related to loss contingency matters as incurred.

(9)(11)    Reportable Business Segments

Description of Segments

The Company operates through two reportable business segments according to the nature and economic characteristics of its services as well as the manner in which the information issued internally by the Company's key decision maker, who is the Company's Chief Executive Officer. The Company's business segments are as follows:

MONI

The MONI segment is engaged in the business of providing security alarm monitoring services: monitoring signals arising from burglaries, fires, medical alerts and other events through security systems at subscribers' premises, as well as providing

customer service and technical support. MONI primarily outsources the sales, installation and most of its field service functions to its dealers.

LiveWatch

LiveWatch is a Do-It-Yourself home security provider offering professionally monitored security services through a direct-to-consumer sales channel. LiveWatch offers a differentiated go-to-market strategy through direct response TV, internet and radio

advertising. When a customer initiates the process to obtain monitoring services, LiveWatch pre-configures the alarm monitoring system based on customer specifications. LiveWatch then packages and ships the equipment directly to the customer. The customer self-installs the equipment on-site and activates the monitoring service over the phone.

As they arise, transactions between segments are recorded on an arm's length basis using relevant market prices. The following table sets forth selected data from the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations for the periods indicated (amounts in thousands):
 MONI LiveWatch Consolidated MONI LiveWatch Consolidated
 Three Months Ended September 30, 2017 Three Months Ended March 31, 2018
Net revenue $130,963
 $7,248
 $138,211
 $125,773
 $7,980
 $133,753
Depreciation and amortization $60,390
 $1,164
 $61,554
 $55,236
 $1,790
 $57,026
Net loss before income taxes $(17,943) $(5,826) $(23,769)
Loss before income taxes $(17,629) $(7,232) $(24,861)
            
 Three Months Ended September 30, 2016 Three Months Ended March 31, 2017
Net revenue $136,910
 $5,855
 $142,765
 $134,408
 $6,792
 $141,200
Depreciation and amortization $63,117
 $1,123
 $64,240
 $60,508
 $1,159
 $61,667
Net loss before income taxes $(15,238) $(5,835) $(21,073)
      
 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017
Net revenue $398,907
 $21,002
 $419,909
Depreciation and amortization $181,873
 $3,438
 $185,311
Net loss before income taxes $(74,722) $(16,601) $(91,323)
      
 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016
Net revenue $413,180
 $16,509
 $429,689
Depreciation and amortization $188,146
 $3,353
 $191,499
Net loss before income taxes $(38,092) $(16,167) $(54,259)
Loss before income taxes $(13,299) $(5,930) $(19,229)

The following table sets forth selected data from the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets for the periods indicated (amounts in thousands):
 MONI LiveWatch Eliminations Consolidated MONI LiveWatch Eliminations Consolidated
 Balance at September 30, 2017 Balance at March 31, 2018
Subscriber accounts, net of amortization $1,312,214
 $21,413
 $
 $1,333,627
Subscriber accounts and deferred contract acquisition costs, net of amortization $1,203,996
 $20,941
 $
 $1,224,937
Goodwill $527,502
 $36,047
 $
 $563,549
 $527,502
 $36,047
 $
 $563,549
Total assets $2,044,106
 $62,830
 $(112,288) $1,994,648
 $1,980,081
 $62,453
 $(124,950) $1,917,584
                
 Balance at December 31, 2016 Balance at December 31, 2017
Subscriber accounts, net of amortization $1,364,804
 $21,956
 $
 $1,386,760
Subscriber accounts and deferred contract acquisition costs, net of amortization $1,280,813
 $21,215
 $
 $1,302,028
Goodwill $527,502
 $36,047
 $
 $563,549
 $527,502
 $36,047
 $
 $563,549
Total assets $2,062,838
 $63,916
 $(93,037) $2,033,717
 $1,996,240
 $63,233
 $(118,158) $1,941,315

(10)(12)    Consolidating Guarantor Financial Information

The Senior Notes were issued by MONI (the “Parent Issuer”) and are fully and unconditionally guaranteed, on a joint and several basis, by all of the Company’s existing domestic subsidiaries (“Subsidiary Guarantors”).  Ascent Capital has not guaranteed any of the Company’s obligations under the Senior Notes. The unaudited condensed consolidating financial information for the Parent Issuer, the Subsidiary Guarantors and the non-guarantors are as follows:


MONITRONICS INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet
(unaudited)
 
As of September 30, 2017As of March 31, 2018
Parent Issuer 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 Non-Guarantors Eliminations ConsolidatedParent Issuer Subsidiary Guarantors Non-Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated
(amounts in thousands)(amounts in thousands)
Assets                  
Current assets:                  
Cash and cash equivalents$27,837
 413
 
 
 28,250
$27,547
 354
 
 
 27,901
Restricted cash93
 
 
 
 93
Trade receivables, net12,624
 582
 
 
 13,206
11,759
 541
 
 
 12,300
Prepaid and other current assets68,197
 2,190
 
 (61,644) 8,743
92,568
 2,739
 
 (72,114) 23,193
Total current assets108,658
 3,185
 
 (61,644) 50,199
131,967
 3,634
 
 (72,114) 63,487
                  
Investment in subsidiaries6,913
 
 
 (6,913) 
(2,271) 
 
 2,271
 
Property and equipment, net28,896
 2,057
 
 
 30,953
31,905
 2,138
 
 
 34,043
Subscriber accounts, net1,296,406
 37,221
 
 
 1,333,627
Subscriber accounts and deferred contract acquisition costs, net1,189,174
 35,763
 
 
 1,224,937
Dealer network and other intangible assets, net8,488
 964
 
 
 9,452
3,638
 303
 
 
 3,941
Goodwill527,191
 36,358
 
 
 563,549
527,191
 36,358
 
 
 563,549
Other assets, net6,841
 27
 
 
 6,868
27,597
 30
 
 
 27,627
Total assets$1,983,393
 79,812
 
 (68,557) 1,994,648
$1,909,201
 78,226
 
 (69,843) 1,917,584
                  
Liabilities and Stockholder's Equity                  
Current liabilities:                  
Accounts payable$8,845
 1,610
 
 
 10,455
$10,298
 2,560
 
 
 12,858
Accrued payroll and related liabilities5,007
 676
 
 
 5,683
4,744
 812
 
 
 5,556
Other accrued liabilities60,836
 62,200
 
 (61,644) 61,392
61,035
 72,807
 
 (72,114) 61,728
Deferred revenue12,708
 1,483
 
 
 14,191
11,878
 1,599
 
 
 13,477
Holdback liability10,165
 541
 
 
 10,706
7,417
 184
 
 
 7,601
Current portion of long-term debt11,000
 
 
 
 11,000
11,000
 
 
 
 11,000
Total current liabilities108,561
 66,510
 
 (61,644) 113,427
106,372
 77,962
 
 (72,114) 112,220
                  
Non-current liabilities:                  
Long-term debt1,720,193
 
 
 
 1,720,193
1,711,336
 
 
 
 1,711,336
Long-term holdback liability1,982
 
 
 
 1,982
2,191
 
 
 
 2,191
Derivative financial instruments16,122
 
 
 
 16,122
6,553
 
 
 
 6,553
Deferred income tax liability, net18,144
 2,344
 
 
 20,488
12,207
 1,759
 
 
 13,966
Other liabilities2,461
 4,045
 
 
 6,506
2,322
 776
 
 
 3,098
Total liabilities1,867,463
 72,899
 
 (61,644) 1,878,718
1,840,981
 80,497
 
 (72,114) 1,849,364
                  
Total stockholder's equity115,930
 6,913
 
 (6,913) 115,930
68,220
 (2,271) 
 2,271
 68,220
Total liabilities and stockholder's equity$1,983,393
 79,812
 
 (68,557) 1,994,648
$1,909,201
 78,226
 
 (69,843) 1,917,584

MONITRONICS INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet
(unaudited)
 
As of December 31, 2016As of December 31, 2017
Parent Issuer 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 Non-Guarantors Eliminations ConsolidatedParent Issuer Subsidiary Guarantors Non-Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated
(amounts in thousands)(amounts in thousands)
Assets                  
Current assets:                  
Cash and cash equivalents$1,739
 1,438
 
 
 3,177
$2,705
 597
 
 
 3,302
Trade receivables, net13,265
 604
 
 
 13,869
12,082
 563
 
 
 12,645
Prepaid and other current assets51,251
 2,171
 
 (44,062) 9,360
74,613
 2,396
 
 (66,341) 10,668
Total current assets66,255
 4,213
 
 (44,062) 26,406
89,400
 3,556
 
 (66,341) 26,615
                  
Investment in subsidiaries22,533
 
 
 (22,533) 
4,554
 
 
 (4,554) 
Property and equipment, net26,652
 1,618
 
 
 28,270
30,727
 2,062
 
 
 32,789
Subscriber accounts, net1,349,285
 37,475
 
 
 1,386,760
Subscriber accounts and deferred contract acquisition costs, net1,265,519
 36,509
 
 
 1,302,028
Dealer network and other intangible assets, net15,762
 1,062
 
 
 16,824
6,063
 931
 
 
 6,994
Goodwill527,191
 36,358
 
 
 563,549
527,191
 36,358
 
 
 563,549
Other assets, net11,889
 19
 
 
 11,908
9,311
 29
 
 
 9,340
Total assets$2,019,567
 80,745
 
 (66,595) 2,033,717
$1,932,765
 79,445
 
 (70,895) 1,941,315
                  
Liabilities and Stockholder's Equity                  
Current liabilities:                  
Accounts payable$9,919
 1,542
 
 
 11,461
$9,705
 1,368
 
 
 11,073
Accrued payroll and related liabilities3,731
 337
 
 
 4,068
2,648
 810
 
 
 3,458
Other accrued liabilities25,951
 49,690
 
 (44,062) 31,579
47,800
 68,567
 
 (66,341) 50,026
Deferred revenue13,807
 1,340
 
 
 15,147
12,332
 1,539
 
 
 13,871
Holdback liability13,434
 482
 
 
 13,916
9,035
 274
 
 
 9,309
Current portion of long-term debt11,000
 
 
 
 11,000
11,000
 
 
 
 11,000
Total current liabilities77,842
 53,391
 
 (44,062) 87,171
92,520
 72,558
 
 (66,341) 98,737
                  
Non-current liabilities:                  
Long-term debt1,687,778
 
 
 
 1,687,778
1,707,297
 
 
 
 1,707,297
Long-term holdback liability2,645
 
 
 
 2,645
2,658
 
 
 
 2,658
Derivative financial instruments16,948
 
 
 
 16,948
13,491
 
 
 
 13,491
Deferred income tax liability, net15,649
 1,681
 
 
 17,330
11,684
 1,620
 
 
 13,304
Other liabilities3,760
 3,140
 
 
 6,900
2,379
 713
 
 
 3,092
Total liabilities1,804,622
 58,212
 
 (44,062) 1,818,772
1,830,029
 74,891
 
 (66,341) 1,838,579
                  
Total stockholder's equity214,945
 22,533
 
 (22,533) 214,945
102,736
 4,554
 
 (4,554) 102,736
Total liabilities and stockholder's equity$2,019,567
 80,745
 
 (66,595) 2,033,717
$1,932,765
 79,445
 
 (70,895) 1,941,315


MONITRONICS INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss)
(unaudited)
Three Months Ended September 30, 2017Three Months Ended March 31, 2018
Parent Issuer 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 Non-Guarantors Eliminations ConsolidatedParent Issuer Subsidiary Guarantors Non-Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated
(amounts in thousands)(amounts in thousands)
Net revenue$129,501
 8,710
 
 
 138,211
$124,295
 9,458
 
 
 133,753
        0
         
Operating expenses: 
  
  
  
 0
 
  
  
  
  
Cost of services26,479
 3,734
 
 
 30,213
28,299
 4,402
 
 
 32,701
Selling, general, and administrative, including stock-based compensation25,145
 8,329
 
 
 33,474
22,803
 9,211
 
 
 32,014
Radio conversion costs68
 6
 
 
 74
Amortization of subscriber accounts, dealer network and other intangible assets57,770
 1,614
 
 
 59,384
Amortization of subscriber accounts, deferred contract acquisition costs and other intangible assets52,237
 2,174
 
 
 54,411
Depreciation1,980
 190
 
 
 2,170
2,385
 230
 
 
 2,615
111,442
 13,873
 
 
 125,315
105,724
 16,017
 
 
 121,741
Operating income (loss)18,059
 (5,163) 
 
 12,896
18,571
 (6,559) 
 
 12,012
Other expense: 
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
Equity in loss of subsidiaries5,423
 
 
 (5,423) 
6,740
 
 
 (6,740) 
Interest expense36,665
 
 
 
 36,665
36,873
 
 
 
 36,873
42,088
 
 
 (5,423) 36,665
43,613
 
 
 (6,740) 36,873
Loss before income taxes(24,029) (5,163) 
 5,423
 (23,769)(25,042) (6,559) 
 6,740
 (24,861)
Income tax expense1,507
 260
 
 
 1,767
1,165
 181
 
 
 1,346
Net loss(25,536) (5,423) 
 5,423
 (25,536)(26,207) (6,740) 
 6,740
 (26,207)
Other comprehensive income (loss): 
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
Unrealized gain on derivative contracts227
 
 
 
 227
14,406
 
 
 
 14,406
Total other comprehensive income227
 
 
 
 227
14,406
 
 
 
 14,406
Comprehensive loss$(25,309) (5,423) 
 5,423
 (25,309)$(11,801) (6,740) 
 6,740
 (11,801)



MONITRONICS INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss)
(unaudited)
 
 Three Months Ended September 30, 2016
 Parent Issuer 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 Non-Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated
 (amounts in thousands)
Net revenue$135,710
 7,055
 
 
 142,765
         0
Operating expenses:        0
Cost of services25,809
 3,240
 
 
 29,049
Selling, general, and administrative, including stock-based compensation22,459
 7,268
 
 
 29,727
Radio conversion costs1,157
 106
 
 
 1,263
Amortization of subscriber accounts, dealer network and other intangible assets60,582
 1,574
 
 
 62,156
Depreciation1,981
 103
 
 
 2,084
 111,988
 12,291
 
 
 124,279
Operating income (loss)23,722
 (5,236) 
 
 18,486
Other expense: 
        
Equity in loss of subsidiaries5,544
 
 
 (5,544) 
Interest expense30,206
 5
 
 
 30,211
Refinancing expense9,348
 
 
 
 9,348
 45,098
 5
 
 (5,544) 39,559
Loss before income taxes(21,376) (5,241) 
 5,544
 (21,073)
Income tax expense1,626
 303
 
 
 1,929
Net loss(23,002) (5,544) 
 5,544
 (23,002)
Other comprehensive loss:         
Unrealized loss on derivative contracts(2,459) 
 
 
 (2,459)
Total other comprehensive loss(2,459) 
 
 
 (2,459)
Comprehensive loss$(25,461) (5,544) 
 5,544
 (25,461)







MONITRONICS INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss)
(unaudited)
 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017
 Parent Issuer 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 Non-Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated
 (amounts in thousands)
Net revenue$394,842
 25,067
 
 
 419,909
         0
Operating expenses: 
  
  
  
 0
Cost of services78,742
 11,057
 
 
 89,799
Selling, general, and administrative, including stock-based compensation103,315
 23,444
 
 
 126,759
Radio conversion costs327
 56
 
 
 383
Amortization of subscriber accounts, dealer network and other intangible assets174,046
 4,850
 
 
 178,896
Depreciation5,916
 499
 
 
 6,415
 362,346
 39,906
 
 
 402,252
Operating income (loss)32,496
 (14,839) 
 
 17,657
Other expense: 
  
  
  
  
Equity in loss of subsidiaries15,620
 
 
 (15,620) 
Interest expense108,975
 5
 
 
 108,980
 124,595
 5
 
 (15,620) 108,980
Loss before income taxes(92,099) (14,844) 
 15,620
 (91,323)
Income tax expense4,554
 776
 
 
 5,330
Net loss(96,653) (15,620) 
 15,620
 (96,653)
Other comprehensive loss: 
  
  
  
  
Unrealized loss on derivative contracts(4,501) 
 
 
 (4,501)
Total other comprehensive loss(4,501) 
 
 
 (4,501)
Comprehensive loss$(101,154) (15,620) 
 15,620
 (101,154)



MONITRONICS INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss)
(unaudited)
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016Three Months Ended March 31, 2017
Parent Issuer 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 Non-Guarantors Eliminations ConsolidatedParent Issuer Subsidiary Guarantors Non-Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated
(amounts in thousands)(amounts in thousands)
Net revenue$410,229
 19,460
 
 
 429,689
$133,118
 8,082
 
 
 141,200
        0
         
Operating expenses:        0
         
Cost of services76,555
 9,606
 
 
 86,161
26,307
 3,662
 
 
 29,969
Selling, general, and administrative, including stock-based compensation67,847
 19,696
 
 
 87,543
24,717
 8,006
 
 
 32,723
Radio conversion costs17,778
 160
 
 
 17,938
187
 45
 
 
 232
Amortization of subscriber accounts, dealer network and other intangible assets180,892
 4,523
 
 
 185,415
Amortization of subscriber accounts, deferred contract acquisition costs and other intangible assets57,903
 1,644
 
 
 59,547
Depreciation5,830
 254
 
 
 6,084
1,976
 144
 
 
 2,120
348,902
 34,239
 
 
 383,141
111,090
 13,501
 
 
 124,591
Operating income (loss)61,327
 (14,779) 
 
 46,548
22,028
 (5,419) 
 
 16,609
Other expense: 
         
        
Equity in loss of subsidiaries15,545
 
 
 (15,545) 
5,682
 
 
 (5,682) 
Interest expense91,445
 14
 
 
 91,459
35,833
 5
 
 
 35,838
Refinancing expense9,348
 
 
 
 9,348
116,338
 14
 
 (15,545) 100,807
41,515
 5
 
 (5,682) 35,838
Loss before income taxes(55,011) (14,793) 
 15,545
 (54,259)(19,487) (5,424) 
 5,682
 (19,229)
Income tax expense4,710
 752
 
 
 5,462
1,526
 258
 
 
 1,784
Net loss(59,721) (15,545) 
 15,545
 (59,721)(21,013) (5,682) 
 5,682
 (21,013)
Other comprehensive loss:         
Unrealized loss on derivative contracts(19,001) 
 
 
 (19,001)
Total other comprehensive loss(19,001) 
 
 
 (19,001)
Other comprehensive income (loss):         
Unrealized gain on derivative contracts1,049
 
 
 
 1,049
Total other comprehensive income1,049
 
 
 
 1,049
Comprehensive loss$(78,722) (15,545) 
 15,545
 (78,722)$(19,964) (5,682) 
 5,682
 (19,964)


MONITRONICS INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
(unaudited)
 
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017Three Months Ended March 31, 2018
Parent Issuer 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 
Non-
Guarantors
 Eliminations ConsolidatedParent Issuer Subsidiary Guarantors Non-Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated
(amounts in thousands)(amounts in thousands)
Net cash provided by operating activities$125,134
 2,093
 
 
 127,227
$50,059
 295
 
 
 50,354
Investing activities:                  
Capital expenditures(9,044) (955) 
 
 (9,999)(3,004) (306) 
 
 (3,310)
Cost of subscriber accounts acquired(116,918) (2,163) 
 
 (119,081)(24,328) (232) 
 
 (24,560)
Increase in restricted cash(93) 
 
 
 (93)
Net cash used in investing activities(125,962) (3,118) 
 
 (129,080)(27,425) (538) 
 
 (27,963)
Financing activities:                  
Proceeds from long-term debt159,850
 
 
 
 159,850
50,000
 
 
 
 50,000
Payments on long-term debt(132,500) 
 
 
 (132,500)(47,750) 
 
 
 (47,750)
Value of shares withheld for share-based compensation(424) 
 
 
 (424)(42) 
 
 
 (42)
Net cash provided by financing activities26,926
 
 
 
 26,926
2,208
 
 
 
 2,208
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents26,098
 (1,025) 
 
 25,073
24,842
 (243) 
 
 24,599
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period1,739
 1,438
 
 
 3,177
2,705
 597
 
 
 3,302
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period$27,837
 413
 
 
 28,250
$27,547
 354
 
 
 27,901

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016Three Months Ended March 31, 2017
Parent Issuer 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 
Non-
Guarantors
 Eliminations ConsolidatedParent Issuer Subsidiary Guarantors Non-Guarantors Eliminations Consolidated
(amounts in thousands)(amounts in thousands)
Net cash provided by operating activities$151,459
 7,609
 
 
 159,068
$51,338
 862
 
 
 52,200
Investing activities:                  
Capital expenditures(4,138) (933) 
 
 (5,071)(1,347) (347) 
 
 (1,694)
Cost of subscriber accounts acquired(153,491) (6,626) 
 
 (160,117)(46,003) (705) 
 
 (46,708)
Increase in restricted cash55
 
 
 
 55
Net cash used in investing activities(157,574) (7,559) 
 
 (165,133)(47,350) (1,052) 
 
 (48,402)
Financing activities:                  
Proceeds from long-term debt1,249,000
 
 
 
 1,249,000
64,750
 
 
 
 64,750
Payments on long-term debt(1,200,009) 
 
 
 (1,200,009)(42,600) 
 
 
 (42,600)
Value of shares withheld for share-based compensation(109) 
 
 
 (109)(136) 
 
 
 (136)
Payments of financing costs(16,711) 
 
 
 (16,711)
Net cash provided by financing activities32,171
 
 
 
 32,171
22,014
 
 
 
 22,014
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents26,056
 50
 
 
 26,106
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents26,002
 (190) 
 
 25,812
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period1,513
 1,067
 
 
 2,580
1,739
 1,438
 
 
 3,177
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period$27,569
 1,117
 
 
 28,686
$27,741
 1,248
 
 
 28,989


Item 2.2.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.Operations
 
Certain statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements regarding our business, marketing and operating strategies, integration of acquired assets and businesses, new service offerings, the availability of debt refinancing, financial prospects and anticipated sources and uses of capital. Where, in any forward-looking statement, we express an expectation or belief as to future results or events, such expectation or belief is expressed in good faith and believed to have a reasonable basis, but there can be no assurance that the expectation or belief will result or be achieved or accomplished. The following include some but not all of the factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated:
 
general business conditions and industry trends;
macroeconomic conditions and their effect on the general economy and on the U.S. housing market, in particular single family homes, which represent our largest demographic;
uncertainties in the development of our business strategies, including our increased direct marketing effortsthe rebranding to BRINKS Home Security and partnership with Nest, and market acceptance of new products and services;
the competitive environment in which we operate, in particular, increasing competition in the alarm monitoring industry from larger existing competitors and new market entrants, including technology, telecommunications and cable companies;
the development of new services or service innovations by competitors;
our ability to acquire and integrate additional accounts, including competition for dealers with other alarm monitoring companies which could cause an increase in expected subscriber acquisition costs;
integration of acquired assets and businesses;
the regulatory environment in which we operate, including the multiplicity of jurisdictions, state and federal consumer protection laws and licensing requirements to which we and/or our dealers are subject and the risk of new regulations, such as the increasing adoption of "false alarm" ordinances;
technological changes which could result in the obsolescence of currently utilized technology andwith the need for significant upgrade expenditures, including the phase-out of 2G networks by cellular carriers;expenditures;
the trend away from the use of public switched telephone network lines and the resultant increase in servicing costs associated with alternative methods of communication;
the operating performance of our network, including the potential for service disruptions at both the main monitoring facility and back-up monitoring facility due to acts of nature or technology deficiencies, and the potential of security breaches related to network or customer information;
the outcome of any pending, threatened, or future litigation, including potential liability for failure to respond adequately to alarm activations;
the ability to continue to obtain insurance coverage sufficient to hedge our risk exposures, including as a result of acts of third parties and/or alleged regulatory violations;
changes in the nature of strategic relationships with original equipment manufacturers, dealers and other MONIof our business partners;partners, such as Nest;
the reliability and creditworthiness of our independent alarm systems dealers and subscribers;
changes in our expected rate of subscriber attrition;
the availability and terms of capital, including theour ability of the Company to refinance our existing debt or obtain future financing to grow itsour business;
our high degree of leverage and the restrictive covenants governing its indebtedness; and
availability of qualified personnel.

For additional risk factors, please see Part I, Item 1A, Risk Factors, in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 20162017 (the "2016"2017 Form 10-K"). and Part II, Item 1A, Risk Factors in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.  These forward-looking statements and such risks, uncertainties and other factors speak only as of the date of this Quarterly Report, and we expressly disclaim any obligation or undertaking to disseminate any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement contained herein, to reflect any change in our expectations with regard thereto, or any other change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based.
 
The following discussion and analysis provides information concerning our results of operations and financial condition.  This discussion should be read in conjunction with our accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included elsewhere herein and the 20162017 Form 10-K.


Overview
 
Monitronics International, Inc. ("MONI") provides residential customers and commercial client accounts with monitored home and business security systems, as well as interactive and home automation services.  MONI is supported by a network of independent Authorized Dealers providing products and support to customers in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.  MONI’s wholly owned subsidiary, LiveWatch Security LLC (“LiveWatch”) is a Do-It-Yourself home security firm, offering professionally monitored security services through a direct-to-consumer sales channel.

On February 26, 2018, we entered into an exclusive, long-term, trademark licensing agreement with The Brink’s Company ("Brink's"), which will result in a complete rebranding of MONI and LiveWatch as Brinks Home SecurityTM. Under the terms of the agreement, we will have exclusive use of the BRINKS and Brinks Home Security trademarks related to the residential smart home and home security categories in the U.S. and Canada. The Company is currently completing rebranding tasks, as well as integration tasks, such that the MONI and LiveWatch sales channels will be combined under the Brinks Home Security brand. The new brand rollout is expected to occur in the second quarter of 2018.

In the first quarter of 2018, the Company adopted Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) ("Topic 606") using the modified retrospective approach, which means the standard is applied to only the current period. Any significant impact as a result of this adoption is discussed in the results of operations detail below. See note 3, Revenue Recognition, in the notes to the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements for further discussion.

The Company also adopted ASU 2017-12, Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities ("ASU 2017-12") which simplifies the application of hedge accounting guidance. The standard was early adopted effective January 1, 2018, and an opening equity adjustment of $605,000 was recognized that reduced Accumulated deficit, offset by a gain in Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). There was no material impact as a result of this adoption to the results of operations detail below. See note 2, Recent Accounting Pronouncements, in the notes to the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements for further discussion.
 
Attrition
 
Account cancellation, otherwise referred to as subscriber attrition, has a direct impact on the number of subscribers that the Company services and on its financial results, including revenues, operating income and cash flow.  A portion of the subscriber base can be expected to cancel its service every year. Subscribers may choose not to renew or to terminate their contract for a variety of reasons, including relocation, cost, and switching to a competitor's service.service and limited use by the subscriber and thus low perceived value.  The largest categories of canceled accounts relate to subscriber relocation or the inability to contact the subscriber.  The Company defines its attrition rate as the number of canceled accounts in a given period divided by the weighted average of number of subscribers for that period.  The Company considers an account canceled if payment from the subscriber is deemed uncollectible or if the subscriber cancels for various reasons.  If a subscriber relocates but continues its service, this is not a cancellation.  If the subscriber relocates, discontinues its service and a new subscriber takes over the original subscriber's service continuing the revenue stream, this is also not a cancellation.  The Company adjusts the number of canceled accounts by excluding those that are contractually guaranteed by its dealers.  The typical dealer contract provides that if a subscriber cancels in the first year of its contract, the dealer must either replace the canceled account with a new one or refund to the Company the cost paid to acquire the contract. To help ensure the dealer’sdealer's obligation to the Company, the Company typically maintains a dealer funded holdback reserve ranging from 5-8% of subscriber accounts in the guarantee period.  In some cases, the amount of the holdback liability is less than actual attrition experience.


The table below presents subscriber data for the twelve months ended September 30, 2017March 31, 2018 and 2016:
2017:
 Twelve Months Ended
September 30,
  Twelve Months Ended
March 31,
 2017 2016  2018 2017
Beginning balance of accounts 1,059,634
 1,091,627
  1,036,794
 1,080,726
Accounts acquired 103,650
 136,414
  87,957
 125,457
Accounts canceled(b) (152,951) (150,091)  (159,845) (162,086)
Canceled accounts guaranteed by dealer and other adjustments (a) (b) (12,246) (18,316)  (6,187) (7,303)
Ending balance of accounts 998,087
 1,059,634
  958,719
 1,036,794
Monthly weighted average accounts 1,033,150
 1,079,100
  998,137
 1,059,526
Attrition rate - Unit(b) 14.8% 13.9%  16.0% 15.3%
Attrition rate - RMR (c) 13.5% 12.2% 
Attrition rate - RMR (b) (c) 13.9% 13.4%
 
(a)Includes canceled accounts that are contractually guaranteed to be refunded from holdback.
(b)IncludesAccounts canceled for the twelve months ending March 31, 2017 were recast to include an estimated 4,945 and 10,4889,522 accounts included in ourthe Company's Radio Conversion Program that primarily canceled in excess of their expected attrition for the twelve months ending September 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.attrition.
(c)The recurring monthly revenue ("RMR") of canceled accounts follows the same definition as subscriber unit attrition as noted above. RMR attrition is defined as the RMR of canceled accounts in a given period, adjusted for the impact of price increases or decreases in that period, divided by the weighted average of RMR for that period.

The unit attrition rate for the twelve months ended September 30,March 31, 2018 and 2017 was 16.0% and 2016 was 14.8% and 13.9%15.3%, respectively. Contributing to the increase in attrition wasrates were the number of subscriber accounts with 5-year contracts reaching the end of their initial contract term in the period, as well asthe relative proportion of the number of new customers under contract or in the dealer guarantee period and our more aggressive price increase strategy. OverallThere was also a modest increase to attrition reflectsattributed to subscriber losses related to the impactimpacts of Hurricane Maria on the Pinnacle Security bulk buys, where the Company purchased approximately 113,000 accountsCompany's Puerto Rico customer base. See Impact from Pinnacle Security in 2012 and 2013, which are now experiencing normal end-of-term attrition. The unit attrition rate without the Pinnacle Security accounts (core attrition)Natural Disasters below for the twelve months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016 was 14.0% and 13.3%, respectively.further information.

We analyze our attrition by classifying accounts into annual pools based on the year of acquisition.  We then track the number of accounts that cancel as a percentage of the initial number of accounts acquired for each pool for each year subsequent to its

acquisition.  Based on the average cancellation rate across the pools, the Company's attrition rate is very low within the initial 12 month period after considering the accounts which were replaced or refunded by the dealers at no additional cost to the Company. Over the next few years of the subscriber account life, the number of subscribers that cancel as a percentage of the initial number of subscribers in that pool gradually increases and historically has peaked following the end of the initial contract term, which is typically three to five years.  The peak following the end of the initial contract term is primarily a result of subscribers that moved, no longer had need for the service or switched to a competitor. Subsequent to the peak following the end of the initial contract term, the number of subscribers that cancel as a percentage of the initial number of subscribers in that pool declines.

Accounts Acquired
 
During the three months ended September 30,March 31, 2018 and 2017, and 2016, the Company acquired 21,26821,547 and 32,57029,376 subscriber accounts, respectively. During the nine months ended September 30, 2017respectively, through its dealer and 2016, the Company acquired 77,423 and 99,065 subscriber accounts, respectively.direct sales channels. Accounts acquired for the ninethree months ended September 30,March 31, 2018 and 2017 reflect bulk buys of approximately 3,500 accounts. Accounts acquired for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 reflect bulk buys of approximately 6,700 accounts.300 and 3,000 accounts, respectively. The decrease in accounts acquired, excluding bulk buys, for the three and nine months is primarily due to general softnesslower production in accounts acquired from the dealer channel.  The softnessContributing to the lower production was the fact that the Company discontinued our relationship with our largest dealer, at the time, in the dealer channel is generally related to a longer than expected transition from their traditional go-to-market strategies, such as door to door sales, to more sophisticated methods including online sales and marketing.  Additionally, during the three months ended September 30,third quarter of 2017 MONI discontinued its relationship with its largest dealer in connection with the TCPATelephone Consumer Protection Act ("TCPA") settlement.  The decrease was partially offset by year over year growth in the direct to consumer sales channels.

RMR acquired during the three months ended September 30,March 31, 2018 and 2017 was $987,000 and 2016 was $1,028,000 and $1,545,000, respectively. RMR acquired during the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016 was $3,768,000 and $4,603,000,$1,437,000, respectively.


Strategic Initiatives

Given the recent decreases in the generation of new subscriber accounts in our dealer channel and trends in subscriber attrition, the Company has implemented several initiatives related to account growth, creation costs, attrition and margin improvements.

Account Growth

We believe that generating account growth at a reasonable cost is essential to scaling our business and generating shareholder value. In recent years, acquisition of new subscriber accounts through our dealer channel has declined due to the attrition of large dealers, efforts to acquire new accounts from dealers at lower purchases prices, changes in consumer buying behavior and increased competition from telecommunications and cable companies in the market. The Company currently has several initiatives in place to improve account growth, which include:

Enhancing our brand recognition with consumers, which was recently bolstered by the signing of the Brink's licensing agreement,
Recruiting high quality dealers into the MONI Authorized Dealer Program,
Assisting new and existing dealers with training and marketing initiatives to increase productivity,
Acquiring bulk accounts to supplement account generation,
Offering third party equipment financing to consumers which is expected to assist in driving account growth at lower creation costs, and
Growing the MONI Direct sales and LiveWatch DIY sales channels under the BRINKS brand.

Although the Company has seen some increases in new subscriber accounts from its internal sales channel, such increases have not been able to offset the declines in the dealer channel. We have increased the efforts of our internal sales channels to increase account growth by developing relationships with third parties, such as Nest, to bring in new leads and account growth opportunities.

Creation Costs

We also consider the management of creation costs to be a key driver in improving the Company's financial results, as lower creation costs would improve the Company's profitability and cash flows. The initiatives related to managing creation costs include:

Growing the MONI Direct sales and LiveWatch DIY sales channels with expected lower creation cost multiples, and
Negotiating lower subscriber account purchase price multiples in our dealer channel.

In addition, we expect that new customers who subscribe to our services through our partnership with Nest will also contribute to lower creation cost multiples as it is expected that Nest equipment will be purchased up front by the consumer as opposed to subsidized by the Company.

Attrition

We have also experienced higher subscriber attrition rates in the past few years. While there are a number of factors impacting our attrition rate, we expect subscriber cancellations relating to a number of subscriber accounts that were acquired in bulk purchases during 2012 and 2013 from Pinnacle Security, as well as the cancellations by subscribers following AT&T's decision to take its 2G cellular networks offline, to decrease in the future.

Notwithstanding the anticipated decrease in future cancellations for these specific subscriber accounts, we have continued to develop our efforts to manage subscriber attrition, which we believe will help drive increases in our subscriber base and shareholder value. The Company currently has several initiatives in place to reduce subscriber attrition, which include:

Maintaining high customer service levels,
Using predictive modeling to identify subscribers with a higher risk of cancellation and engaging with these subscribers to obtain contract extensions on terms favorable to the Company, and
Implementing effective pricing strategies.

Margin Improvement

We have also adopted initiatives to reduce expenses and improve our financial results, which include:

Reducing our operating costs by right sizing the cost structure to the business and leveraging our scale,
Implementing more sophisticated purchasing techniques, and
Increasing use of automation.

While the uncertainties related to the successful implementation of the foregoing initiatives could impact the Company's ability to achieve net profitability and positive cash flows in the near term, we believe they will position the Company to improve its operating performance, increase cash flows and create shareholder value over the long-term.

Impact from Natural Disasters

Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria, which made landfall in Texas, Florida and Puerto Rico, respectively, did not materially impact our results forin the third quarter of 2017. MONI hasThe Company had approximately 38,000, 55,000 and 55,00036,000 subscribers in areas impacted by hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Irma,Maria, respectively. In addition, MONI hasthe fourth quarter of 2017, the Company recognized approximately 36,000$2,000,000 in revenue credits or refunds to subscribers due to service interruptions or other customer service incentives to retain subscribers impacted from these natural disasters. A vast majority of these credits were issued to subscribers in Puerto Rico, where damage from the areas impacted byhurricanes had been the most severe and widespread.

In the first quarter of 2018, MONI recognized approximately $900,000 in hurricane Maria.related revenue credits, substantially all due to continued customer service retention efforts on Puerto Rico subscribers. There continues to be a modest increase to last twelve months' attrition related to these events. As a result of these events, werecovery from Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico is still ongoing, the Company may continue to experience increased revenue credits or refunds, field service costs and higher attrition in future periods. However, the extent to which we may experience these impacts cannot currently be estimated. We will continue to assess the impact of these events.

Adjusted EBITDA

We evaluate the performance of our operations based on financial measures such as revenue and "Adjusted EBITDA." Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net income (loss) before interest expense, interest income, income taxes, depreciation, amortization (including the amortization of subscriber accounts, dealer network and other intangible assets), restructuring charges, stock-based and long-term incentive compensation, and other non-cash or non-recurring charges. We believe that Adjusted EBITDA is an important indicator of the operational strength and performance of itsour business, including the business' ability to fund its ongoing acquisition of subscriber accounts, its capital expenditures and to service its debt.  In addition, this measure is used by management to evaluate operating results and perform analytical comparisons and identify strategies to improve performance.  Adjusted EBITDA is also a measure that is customarily used by financial analysts to evaluate the financial performance of companies in the security alarm monitoring industry and is one of the financial measures, subject to certain adjustments, by which our covenants are calculated under the agreements governing our debt obligations.  Adjusted EBITDA does not represent cash flow from operations as defined by generally accepted accounting principles in the United States ("GAAP"), should not be construed as an alternative to net income or loss and is indicative neither of our results of operations nor of cash flows available to fund all of our cash needs.  It is, however, a measurement that we believe is useful to investors in analyzing our operating performance.  Accordingly, Adjusted EBITDA should be considered in addition to, but not as a substitute for, net income, cash flow provided by operating activities and other measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP.  Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure.  As companies often define non-GAAP financial measures differently, Adjusted EBITDA as calculated by MONI should not be compared to any similarly titled measures reported by other companies.

Pre-SAC Adjusted EBITDA

In addition to MONI's dealer sales channel, MONI and LiveWatch also generate leads and acquire accounts through their direct-to-consumer sales channels.  As such, certain expenditures and related revenue associated with subscriber acquisition

(subscriber acquisition costs, or "SAC") are recognized as incurred. This is in contrast to the dealer sales channel, which capitalizes payments to dealers to acquire accounts. "Pre-SAC Adjusted EBITDA" is a measure that eliminates the impact of generating leads and acquiring accounts through the direct-to-consumer sales channels that is recognized in operating income. Pre-SAC Adjusted EBITDA is defined as total Adjusted EBITDA excluding SAC related to internally generated subscriber leads and accounts through the direct-to-consumer sales channels, as well as any related revenue. We believe Pre-SAC Adjusted EBITDA is a meaningful measure of our financial performance in servicing our customer base. Pre-SAC Adjusted EBITDA should be considered in addition to, but not as a substitute for, net income, cash flow provided by operating activities and other measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. Pre-SAC Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure. As companies often define non-GAAP financial measures differently, Pre-SAC Adjusted EBITDA as calculated by the Company should not be compared to any similarly titled measures reported by other companies.

Results of Operations
 
The following table sets forth selected data from the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) for the periods indicated (dollar amounts in thousands).
Three Months Ended 
 September 30,
 Nine Months Ended 
 September 30,
Three Months Ended 
 March 31,
2017 2016 2017 20162018 2017
Net revenue$138,211
 142,765
 $419,909
 429,689
$133,753
 141,200
Cost of services30,213
 29,049
 89,799
 86,161
32,701
 29,969
Selling, general, and administrative33,474
 29,727
 126,759
 87,543
Amortization of subscriber accounts, dealer network and other intangible assets59,384
 62,156
 178,896
 185,415
Selling, general and administrative, including stock-based and long-term incentive compensation32,014
 32,723
Amortization of subscriber accounts, deferred contract acquisition costs and other intangible assets54,411
 59,547
Interest expense36,665
 30,211
 108,980
 91,459
36,873
 35,838
Income tax expense1,767
 1,929
 5,330
 5,462
1,346
 1,784
Net loss(25,536) (23,002) (96,653) (59,721)(26,207) (21,013)
          
Adjusted EBITDA (a)$76,910
 86,795
 $239,786
 262,454
$70,039
 82,222
Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of Net revenue55.6%
60.8% 57.1% 61.1%52.4% 58.2%
          
Pre-SAC Adjusted EBITDA (b)$87,134
 92,776
 $265,850
 279,044
Pre-SAC Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of Pre-SAC net revenue (c)63.5% 65.6% 63.9% 65.5%
Expensed Subscriber acquisition costs, net   
Gross subscriber acquisition costs$11,690
 9,033
Revenue associated with subscriber acquisition costs(1,512) (1,392)
Expensed Subscriber acquisition costs, net$10,178
 7,641
 
(a) 
See reconciliation of netNet loss to Adjusted EBITDA below.
(b)
See reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to Pre-SAC Adjusted EBITDA below.
(c)
Presented below is the reconciliation of Net revenue to Pre-SAC net revenue (amounts in thousands):
 Three Months Ended 
 September 30,
 Nine Months Ended 
 September 30,
 2017 2016 2017 2016
Net revenue, as reported$138,211
 142,765
 $419,909
 429,689
Revenue associated with subscriber acquisition cost(1,051) (1,332) (3,694) (3,884)
Pre-SAC net revenue$137,160
 141,433
 $416,215
 425,805
 
Net revenue.  Net revenue decreased $4,554,000,$7,447,000, or 3.2%, and $9,780,000, or 2.3%5.3%, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively,March 31, 2018, as compared to the corresponding prior year periods.period. The decrease in net revenue is attributable to the lower average number of subscribers in 2017.the first quarter of 2018. This decrease was partially offset by an increase in average RMR per subscriber due to certain price increases enacted during the past twelve months and an increase in average RMR per new subscriber acquired.months. Average RMR per subscriber increased from $42.84$43.63 as of September 30, 2016March 31, 2017 to $43.79$44.76 as of September 30, 2017.March 31, 2018.
 
Cost of services.  Cost of services increased $1,164,000,$2,732,000, or 4.0%, and $3,638,000, or 4.2%9.1%, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively,March 31, 2018, as compared to the corresponding prior year periods.period. The increase for the three months ended March 31, 2018 is primarily attributabledue to increasedexpensing certain direct and incremental field service costs due toon new AMAs obtained in connection with a higher volumesubscriber move ("Moves Costs") of retention jobs being completed and an increase in

expensed subscriber acquisition costs attributable to MONI, as a result$2,405,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2018. Upon adoption of the initiation of MONI's direct installation sales channel.new revenue recognition guidance, Topic 606, all Moves Costs are expensed, whereas prior to adoption, certain Moves Costs were capitalized on the balance sheet. Moves Costs capitalized as Subscriber accounts, net for the three months ended March 31, 2017 were $3,889,000. Furthermore, subscriber acquisition costs, which include expensed equipment and labor costs associated with the creation of new subscribers for MONI and LiveWatch, of $3,307,000 and $8,774,000increased to $3,610,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively,March 31, 2018, as compared to $2,132,000 and $6,466,000$2,664,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, respectively.March 31, 2017, attributable to increased production volume in the Company's direct sales channels. These increases were offset by reduced salary and wage expense due to lower headcount. Cost of services as a percent of net revenue increased from 20.3% and 20.1%21.2% for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, respectively,March 31, 2017 to 21.9% and 21.4%24.4% for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively.March 31, 2018.
 
Selling, general and administrative. Selling, general and administrative costs ("SG&A") increased $3,747,000,decreased $709,000, or 12.6%2.2%, for the three months ended September 30, 2017March 31, 2018, as compared to the corresponding prior year period. The increasedecrease is primarily attributable to increased subscriberlower stock-based compensation expense and LiveWatch acquisition costs, $1,248,000 of severancecontingent bonus charges related to a reduction in force event and transitioning executive leadership at MONI's Dallas, Texas headquarters and consulting fees related to implementation of strategic company initiatives. Subscriber acquisition costs increased to $7,968,000 for the three months ended September 30,March 31, 2018, due to recent settlements or renegotiations of certain key agreements governing these costs. Furthermore, there was $713,000 and $641,000 of software impairment charges and consulting fees on integration / implementation of company initiatives, respectively, that were recognized in the three months ended March 31, 2017 as comparedwith no corresponding costs being incurred in the three months ended March 31, 2018. These decreases were offset by direct marketing and other SG&A subscriber acquisition costs increasing to $5,181,000$8,080,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2016 primarilyMarch 31, 2018 as a result of increased direct-to-consumer sales activities at MONI. These increases were offset by decreasescompared to $6,369,000 for the LiveWatch acquisition contingent bonus expense as the Company settled a portion of the bonus earlier inthree months ended March 31, 2017. SG&A as a percent of net revenue increased from 20.8%23.2% for the three months ended September 30, 2016March 31, 2017 to 24.2%23.9% for the three months ended September 30, 2017.March 31, 2018.

SG&A increased $39,216,000,Amortization of subscriber accounts, deferred contract acquisition costs and other intangible assets.  Amortization of subscriber accounts, deferred contract acquisition costs and other intangible assets decreased $5,136,000, or 44.8%8.6%, for the ninethree months ended September 30, 2017March 31, 2018, as compared to the corresponding prior year period.  The increasedecrease is primarily attributablerelated to a putative $28,000,000 legal settlement reserve recognized in the second quarter of 2017 in relation to class action litigation that alleged violation of telemarketing laws. Subscriber acquisition costs increased to $20,984,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 as compared to $14,008,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2016, primarily as a result of increased direct-to-consumer sales activities at MONI. Other increases are attributed to consulting fees incurred on strategic company initiatives as well as the severance event and transitioning executive leadership discussed above. These increases were offset by decreases to the LiveWatch acquisition contingent bonus expense as the Company settled a portion of the bonus earlier in 2017. SG&A as a percent of net revenue increased from 20.4% for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 to 30.2% for the nine months ended September 30, 2017.
Amortizationlower number of subscriber accounts dealer network and other intangible assets.  Amortization of subscriber accounts, dealer network and other intangible assets decreased $2,772,000 and $6,519,000, or 4.5% and 3.5%, forpurchased in the three and ninelast twelve months ended September 30, 2017, respectively, asMarch 31, 2018 compared to the prior corresponding prior year periods.  The decrease is related toperiod as well as the timing of amortization of subscriber accounts acquired prior to the thirdfirst quarter of 2016,2017, which have a lower rate of amortization in 20172018 based on the applicable double declining balance amortization method. Additionally, as discussed above, Moves Costs are expensed under Topic 606, whereas prior to adoption, these Moves Costs were capitalized on the balance sheet and amortized. This change resulted in a $1,883,000 decrease in amortization expense. The decrease is partially offset by increased amortization related to accounts acquired subsequent to September 30, 2016.March 31, 2017.
 
Interest expense.  Interest expense increased $6,454,000 and $17,521,000,$1,035,000, or 2.9%, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively,March 31, 2018, as compared to the corresponding prior year periods.period. The increase in interest expense is attributable to increases in the Company's consolidatedrevolving credit facility activity, higher interest rates from increasing LIBOR rates and increased amortization of debt balancediscount and higher applicable margins on Credit Facility borrowings as a result ofdeferred debt costs under the September 2016 Credit Facility refinancing.effective interest rate method.
 
Income tax expense from continuing operations.  The Company had pre-tax loss from continuing operations of $23,769,000 and $91,323,000$24,861,000 and income tax expense of $1,767,000 and $5,330,000$1,346,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively.March 31, 2018.  The Company had pre-tax loss from continuing operations of $21,073,000 and $54,259,000$19,229,000 and income tax expense of $1,929,000 and $5,462,000$1,784,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, respectively.March 31, 2017. Income tax expense for the three and nine months ended September 30,March 31, 2018 and 2017 and 2016 is attributable to the Company's state tax expense and the deferred tax impact from amortization of deductible goodwill related to the Company's business acquisitions.

Net loss. The Company had net loss of $25,536,000 and $96,653,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively, as compared to $23,002,000 and $59,721,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, respectively. The increase in net loss$26,207,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2017 is primarily driven byMarch 31, 2018, as compared to $21,013,000 for the decreases in operating income (which is discussed above) and increases in interest expense. These loss increases were offset by the $9,348,000 in refinancing expenses that was a non-recurring charge incurred in the third quarter of 2016 related to MONI's Credit Facility refinancing.three months ended March 31, 2017. The increasechange in net loss for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 is primarily relatedattributable to the $28,000,000 legal settlement reserve recognized in the second quarter of 2017, as well as decreases in operating income. These changes were offset by a reduction in Radio conversion costs in 2017,Net revenue as MONI has substantially completed its radio conversion program in 2016.discussed above.


Adjusted EBITDA and Pre-SAC Adjusted EBITDA. The following table provides a reconciliation of netNet loss to total Adjusted EBITDA to Pre-SAC Adjusted EBITDA for the periods indicated (amounts in thousands):
Three Months Ended 
 September 30,
 Nine Months Ended 
 September 30,
Three Months Ended 
 March 31,
2017 2016 2017 20162018 2017
Net loss$(25,536) (23,002) $(96,653) (59,721)$(26,207) (21,013)
Amortization of subscriber accounts, dealer network and other intangible assets59,384
 62,156
 178,896
 185,415
Amortization of subscriber accounts, deferred contract acquisition costs and other intangible assets54,411
 59,547
Depreciation2,170
 2,084
 6,415
 6,084
2,615
 2,120
Stock-based compensation1,311
 682
 2,759
 1,871
47
 518
Radio conversion costs74
 1,263
 383
 17,938

 232
Severance expense (a)
 27
LiveWatch acquisition contingent bonus charges62
 968
Rebranding marketing program
 602
 880
 839
892
 847
LiveWatch acquisition contingent bonus charges391
 1,104
 1,746
 3,096
Integration / implementation of company initiatives390
 
 2,420
 

 641
Severance expense (a)1,248
 
 1,275
 245
Impairment of capitalized software
 
 713
 

 713
Gain on revaluation of acquisition dealer liabilities(954) 
 (1,358) 
Legal settlement reserve
 
 28,000
 
Software implementation/integration
 418
 
 418
Interest expense36,665
 30,211
 108,980
 91,459
36,873
 35,838
Refinancing expense
 9,348
 
 9,348
Income tax expense1,767
 1,929
 5,330
 5,462
1,346
 1,784
Adjusted EBITDA76,910
 86,795
 239,786
 262,454
$70,039
 82,222
Gross subscriber acquisition costs (b)11,275
 7,313
 29,758
 20,474
Revenue associated with subscriber acquisition costs (b)(1,051) (1,332) (3,694) (3,884)
Pre-SAC Adjusted EBITDA$87,134
 92,776
 $265,850
 279,044
 
 
(a) Severance expense related to a reduction in headcount event and transitioning executive leadership at MONI.
(b)Gross subscriber acquisition costs and Revenue associated with subscriber acquisition costs for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 has been restated to include $665,000 and $2,006,000 of costs, respectively, and $207,000 and $584,000 of revenue, respectively, related to MONI's direct-to-consumer sales channel activities for the period.

Adjusted EBITDA decreased $9,885,000,$12,183,000, or 11.4%, and $22,668,000, or 8.6%14.8%, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively,March 31, 2018, as compared to the corresponding prior year periods.period.  The decrease is primarily the result of lower revenues, as discussed above,the expensing of subscriber moves in 2018 and an increase in subscriber acquisition costs net of related revenue, which is primarily associated with an increase in MONI's direct-to-consumer sales activities.as discussed above.

Expensed Subscriber acquisition costs, net of related revenue,.  Subscriber acquisition costs, net increased from $5,981,000 and $16,590,000to $10,178,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, respectively,March 31, 2018, as compared to $10,224,000 and $26,064,000$7,641,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively.

Pre-SAC Adjusted EBITDA decreased $5,642,000, or 6.1%, and $13,194,000, or 4.7%, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively, as compared to the corresponding prior year periods whichMarch 31, 2017. The increase in subscriber acquisition costs, net is primarily attributable to lower Pre-SAC revenues and increased field service retention costs as discussed above.increase in volume of direct sales subscriber acquisitions year over year.


Liquidity and Capital Resources
 
At September 30, 2017,March 31, 2018, we had $28,250,000$27,901,000 of cash and cash equivalents.  We may use a portion of these assets to decrease debt obligations, or fund potential strategic acquisitions or investment opportunities.

Our primary sources of funds are our cash flows from operating activities which are generated from alarm monitoring and related service revenues.  During the ninethree months ended September 30,March 31, 2018 and 2017, and 2016, our cash flow from operating activities was $127,227,000$50,354,000 and $159,068,000,$52,200,000, respectively.  The primary driver of our cash flow from operating activities is Adjusted EBITDA.  Fluctuations in our Adjusted EBITDA and the components of that measure are discussed in “Results of Operations” above.  In addition, our cash flow from operating activities may be significantly impacted by changes in working capital.
 
During the ninethree months ended September 30,March 31, 2018 and 2017, and 2016, the Company used cash of $119,081,000$24,560,000 and $160,117,000,$46,708,000, respectively, to fund subscriber account acquisitions, net of holdback and guarantee obligations.  In addition, during the nine

three months ended September 30,March 31, 2018 and 2017, and 2016, the Company used cash of $9,999,000$3,310,000 and $5,071,000,$1,694,000, respectively, to fund its capital expenditures.

On September 28, 2017,March 29, 2018, the Company borrowed an incremental $26,691,000 on itsthe revolver under the Credit Facility revolver(as defined below) to fund its OctoberApril 2, 20172018 interest payment due under the Senior Notes.Notes (as defined below).

TheOur existing long-term debt ofat March 31, 2018 includes the Company at September 30, 2017 includes theaggregate principal balance of $1,766,400,000$1,754,000,000 under its Senior Notes,(i) the senior notes totaling $585,000,000 in principal, maturing on April 1, 2020 and bearing interest at 9.125% per annum (the “Senior Notes”), (ii) the Ascent Intercompany Loan Credit Facilitytotaling $12,000,000 in principal, maturing on October 1, 2020 and bearing interest at 12.5% per annum (the “Ascent Intercompany Loan”), and (iii) the $1,100,000,000 senior secured term loan and Credit Facility revolver.$295,000,000 super priority revolver under the sixth amendment to the MONI secured credit agreement dated March 23, 2012, as amended (the “Credit Facility”).  The Senior Notes have an outstanding principal balance of $585,000,000 as of September 30, 2017 and mature on April 1, 2020.March 31, 2018.  The Ascent Intercompany Loan has an outstanding principal balance of $12,000,000 and matures on October 1, 2020.$12,000,000.  The Credit Facility term loan has an outstanding principal balance of $1,089,000,000$1,083,500,000 as of September 30, 2017March 31, 2018 and requires principal payments of $2,750,000 per quarter with the remaining amount becoming due on September 30, 2022. The Credit Facility revolver has an outstanding balance of $80,400,000$73,500,000 as of September 30, 2017March 31, 2018 and becomes due on September 30, 2021. The maturity date for both the term loan and the revolving credit facility under the Credit Facility are subject to a springing maturity 181 days prior to the scheduled maturity date of the Senior Notes. Accordingly, if we are unable to refinance the Senior Notes by October 3, 2019, both the term loan and the revolving credit facility would become due and payable.

In considering our liquidity requirements for the remainder of 2017,2018, we evaluated our known future commitments and obligations. We will require the availability of funds to finance our planned strategy to grow through the acquisition of subscriber accounts. We considered the expected operating cash flows as well as the borrowing capacity of our Credit Facility revolver, under which we could borrow an additional $214,600,000$221,500,000 as of September 30, 2017.March 31, 2018, subject to certain financial covenants. Based on this analysis, we expect that cash on hand, cash flow generated from operations and available borrowings under the Credit Facility revolver will provide sufficient liquidity, given our anticipated current and future requirements.

We may seek capital contributions from Ascent Capital or debt financing in the event of any new investment opportunities, additional capital expenditures or our operations requiring additional funds, but there can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain capital contributions from Ascent Capital or debt financing on terms that would be acceptable to us or at all.  Our ability to seek additional sources of funding depends on our future financial position and results of operations, which are subject to general conditions in or affecting our industry and our customers and to general economic, political, financial, competitive, legislative and regulatory factors beyond our control.



Item 3.3.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk

Interest Rate Risk

Due to the terms of our debt obligations, weWe have exposure to changes in interest rates related to thesethe terms of our debt obligations.  The Company uses derivative financial instruments to manage the exposure related to the movement in interest rates.  The derivatives are designated as hedges and were entered into with the intention of reducing the risk associated with variable interest rates on the debt obligations.  We do not use derivative financial instruments for trading purposes.
 
Tabular Presentation of Interest Rate Risk
 
The table below provides information about our outstanding debt obligations and derivative financial instruments that are sensitive to changes in interest rates. Interest rate swaps are presented at their fair value amount and by maturity date as of September 30, 2017.March 31, 2018.  Debt amounts represent principal payments by maturity date as of September 30, 2017.March 31, 2018, assuming no springing maturity of both the term loan and the revolving credit facility under the Credit Facility.
 
Year of Maturity Fixed Rate
Derivative
Instruments, net (a)
 Variable Rate
Debt
 Fixed Rate
Debt
 Total Fixed Rate
Derivative
Instruments, net (a)
 Variable Rate
Debt
 Fixed Rate
Debt
 Total
 (Amounts in thousands) (Amounts in thousands)
Remainder of 2017 $
 $2,750
 $
 $2,750
2018 1,631
 11,000
 
 12,631
Remainder of 2018 $
 $8,250
 $
 $8,250
2019 
 11,000
 
 11,000
 
 11,000
 
 11,000
2020 
 11,000
 597,000
 608,000
 ��
 11,000
 597,000
 608,000
2021 
 91,400
 
 91,400
 
 84,500
 
 84,500
2022 11,458
 1,042,250
 
 1,053,708
 (7,280) 1,042,250
 
 1,034,970
2023 
 
 
 
Thereafter 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total $13,089
 $1,169,400
 $597,000

$1,779,489
 $(7,280) $1,157,000
 $597,000

$1,746,720
 
(a) 
The derivative financial instruments reflected in this column include four interest rate swaps with a maturity date in 2018 and four interest rate swaps with a maturity date in 2022.  As a result of these interest rate swaps, the Company's current effective weighted average interest rate on the borrowings under the Credit Facility term loans is 7.18%.was 7.98% as of March 31, 2018.  See notes 4, 56, 7 and 68 to our accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements included in this Quarterly Report for further information.
 
Item 4.4.Controls and Procedures
 
In accordance with Rules 13a-15 and 15d-15 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), the Company carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of management, including its chief executive officer and chief financial officer (the "Executives"), of the effectiveness of its disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report.  Based on that evaluation, the Executives concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of September 30, 2017March 31, 2018 to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed in its reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’sSecurities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms.
 
There has been no change in the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting that occurred during the three months ended September 30, 2017March 31, 2018 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, its internal controls over financial reporting.


PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1ARisk Factors

Except as discussed below, there have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in Part I, Item 1A of the 2017 Form 10-K.

Our business operates in a regulated industry.

Our business, operations and dealers are subject to various U.S. federal, state and local consumer protection laws, licensing regulation and other laws and regulations, and, to a lesser extent, similar Canadian laws and regulations. While there are no U.S. federal laws that directly regulate the security alarm monitoring industry, our advertising and sales practices and that of our dealer network are subject to regulation by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (the “FTC”) in addition to state consumer protection laws. The FTC and the Federal Communications Commission have issued regulations that place restrictions on, among other things, unsolicited automated telephone calls to residential and wireless telephone subscribers by means of automatic telephone dialing systems and the use of prerecorded or artificial voice messages. If the Company (through our direct marketing efforts) or our dealers were to take actions in violation of these regulations, such as telemarketing to individuals on the “Do Not Call” registry, we could be subject to fines, penalties, private actions, investigations or enforcement actions by government regulators. We have been named, and may be named in the future, as a defendant in litigation arising from alleged violations of the TCPA. While we endeavor to comply with the TCPA, no assurance can be given that we will not be exposed to liability as a result of our or our dealers’ direct marketing efforts or debt collections. For example, we recognized a legal settlement reserve in the second quarter of 2017 related to a class action lawsuit based on alleged TCPA violations. In addition, although we have taken steps to insulate our company from any such wrongful conduct by our dealers, and to require our dealers to comply with these laws and regulations, no assurance can be given that we will not be exposed to liability as result of our dealers’ conduct. If the Company or any such dealers do not comply with applicable laws, we may be exposed to increased liability and penalties, and there can be no assurance, in the event of such liability, that we would be adequately covered, if at all, by our insurance policies. Further, to the extent that any changes in law or regulation further restrict the lead generation activity of the Company or our dealers, these restrictions could result in a material reduction in subscriber acquisition opportunities, reducing the growth prospects of our business and adversely affecting our financial condition and future cash flows. In addition, most states in which we operate have licensing laws directed specifically toward the monitored security services industry. Our business relies heavily upon wireline and cellular telephone service to communicate signals. Wireline and cellular telephone companies are currently regulated by both federal and state governments. Changes in laws or regulations could require us to change the way we operate, which could increase costs or otherwise disrupt operations. In addition, failure to comply with any such applicable laws or regulations could result in substantial fines or revocation of our operating permits and licenses, including in geographic areas where our services have substantial penetration, which could adversely affect our business and financial condition. Further, if these laws and regulations were to change or we failed to comply with such laws and regulations as they exist today or in the future, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.


Item 6Exhibits
 
Listed below are the exhibits which are included as a part of this Report (according to the number assigned to them in Item 601 of Regulation S-K):
 
31.1 
31.2 
32 
101.INS XBRL Instance Document. *
101.SCH XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document. *
101.CAL XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document. *
101.DEF XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document. *
101.LAB XBRL Taxonomy Extension Labels Linkbase Document. *
101.PRE XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document. *
 
*Filed herewith.
**Furnished herewith.




SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 
 MONITRONICS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
  
  
Date: November 3, 2017May 10, 2018By:/s/ Jeffery R. Gardner
  Jeffery R. Gardner
  President and Chief Executive Officer
   
   
Date: November 3, 2017May 10, 2018By:/s/ Fred A. Graffam
  Fred A. Graffam
  Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
  (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)


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