Cover
Cover - shares | 3 Months Ended | |
Mar. 31, 2024 | May 06, 2024 | |
Entity Information [Line Items] | ||
Document Type | 10-Q | |
Document Quarterly Report | true | |
Document Period End Date | Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Document Transition Report | false | |
Entity File Number | 333-271072 | |
Entity Registrant Name | Sinclair, Inc. | |
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | MD | |
Entity Tax Identification Number | 92-1076143 | |
Entity Address, Address Line One | 10706 Beaver Dam Road | |
Entity Address, City or Town | Hunt Valley | |
Entity Address, State or Province | MD | |
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 21030 | |
City Area Code | 410 | |
Local Phone Number | 568-1500 | |
Title of 12(b) Security | Class A Common Stock, par value $ 0.01 per share | |
Trading Symbol | SBGI | |
Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ | |
Entity Current Reporting Status | Yes | |
Entity Interactive Data Current | Yes | |
Entity Filer Category | Accelerated Filer | |
Entity Small Business | false | |
Entity Emerging Growth Company | false | |
Entity Shell Company | false | |
Entity Central Index Key | 0001971213 | |
Current Fiscal Year End Date | --12-31 | |
Document Fiscal Year Focus | 2024 | |
Document Fiscal Period Focus | Q1 | |
Amendment Flag | false | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | ||
Entity Information [Line Items] | ||
Entity File Number | 000-26076 | |
Entity Registrant Name | Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | MD | |
Entity Tax Identification Number | 52-1494660 | |
Entity Current Reporting Status | No | |
Entity Interactive Data Current | Yes | |
Entity Filer Category | Non-accelerated Filer | |
Entity Small Business | false | |
Entity Emerging Growth Company | false | |
Entity Shell Company | false | |
Entity Central Index Key | 0000912752 | |
Class A Common Stock | ||
Entity Information [Line Items] | ||
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding | 42,402,724 | |
Class B Common Stock | ||
Entity Information [Line Items] | ||
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding | 23,775,056 |
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($) $ in Millions | Mar. 31, 2024 | Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Current assets: | |||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ 655 | $ 662 | |
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $4 as of both periods | 642 | 616 | |
Income taxes receivable | 7 | 8 | |
Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 177 | 189 | |
Total current assets | 1,481 | 1,475 | |
Property and equipment, net | 720 | 715 | |
Operating lease assets | 139 | 142 | |
Goodwill | 2,082 | 2,082 | |
Indefinite-lived intangible assets | 150 | 150 | |
Other assets | 725 | 742 | |
Total assets | [1] | 6,038 | 6,085 |
Current liabilities: | |||
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities | 854 | 913 | |
Current portion of notes payable, finance leases, and commercial bank financing | 37 | 36 | |
Current portion of operating lease liabilities | 22 | 21 | |
Current portion of program contracts payable | 57 | 76 | |
Other current liabilities | 70 | 57 | |
Total current liabilities | 1,040 | 1,103 | |
Notes payable, finance leases, and commercial bank financing, less current portion | 4,112 | 4,139 | |
Operating lease liabilities, less current portion | 148 | 152 | |
Program contracts payable, less current portion | 11 | 14 | |
Deferred tax liabilities | 258 | 252 | |
Other long-term liabilities | 200 | 204 | |
Total liabilities | [1] | 5,769 | 5,864 |
Commitments and contingencies (See Note 5) | |||
Shareholders' equity: | |||
Additional paid-in capital | 554 | 517 | |
Accumulated deficit | (227) | (234) | |
Accumulated other comprehensive income | 5 | 1 | |
Total SBG (deficit) equity | 333 | 285 | |
Noncontrolling interests | (64) | (64) | |
Total equity | 269 | 221 | |
Total liabilities and equity | 6,038 | 6,085 | |
Class A Common Stock | |||
Shareholders' equity: | |||
Common Stock | 1 | 1 | |
Class B Common Stock | |||
Shareholders' equity: | |||
Common Stock | 0 | 0 | |
Customer relationships, net | |||
Current assets: | |||
Definite-lived intangible assets, net | 352 | 369 | |
Other definite-lived intangible assets, net | |||
Current assets: | |||
Definite-lived intangible assets, net | $ 389 | $ 410 | |
[1]Our consolidated total assets as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 include total assets of variable interest entities ("VIE") of $78 million and $85 million, respectively, which can only be used to settle the obligations of the VIEs. Our consolidated total liabilities as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 include total liabilities of VIEs of $16 million and $17 million, respectively, for which the creditors of the VIEs have no recourse to us. See Note 8. Variable Interest Entities |
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Pa
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Mar. 31, 2024 | Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Accounts receivable, allowance for doubtful accounts | $ 4 | $ 4 | |
Assets | [1] | 6,038 | 6,085 |
Liabilities | [1] | 5,769 | 5,864 |
Consolidated VIEs | |||
Assets | 78 | 85 | |
Liabilities | 22 | 23 | |
Consolidated VIEs | Nonrecourse | |||
Liabilities | $ 16 | $ 17 | |
Class A Common Stock | |||
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) | $ 0.01 | $ 0.01 | |
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) | 500,000,000 | 500,000,000 | |
Common stock, shares issued (in shares) | 42,305,323 | 39,737,682 | |
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) | 42,305,323 | 39,737,682 | |
Class B Common Stock | |||
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) | $ 0.01 | $ 0.01 | |
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) | 140,000,000 | 140,000,000 | |
Common stock, shares issued (in shares) | 23,775,056 | 23,775,056 | |
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) | 23,775,056 | 23,775,056 | |
[1]Our consolidated total assets as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 include total assets of variable interest entities ("VIE") of $78 million and $85 million, respectively, which can only be used to settle the obligations of the VIEs. Our consolidated total liabilities as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 include total liabilities of VIEs of $16 million and $17 million, respectively, for which the creditors of the VIEs have no recourse to us. See Note 8. Variable Interest Entities |
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPER
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | |
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | |
REVENUES: | ||
Media revenues | $ 792 | $ 766 |
Non-media revenues | 6 | 7 |
Revenue | 798 | 773 |
OPERATING EXPENSES: | ||
Media programming and production expenses | 408 | 398 |
Media selling, general and administrative expenses | 196 | 191 |
Amortization of program contract costs | 19 | 22 |
Non-media expenses | 12 | 12 |
Depreciation of property and equipment | 25 | 24 |
Corporate general and administrative expenses | 58 | 58 |
Amortization of definite-lived intangible assets | 38 | 41 |
Loss on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment | 0 | 6 |
Total operating expenses | 756 | 752 |
Operating income | 42 | 21 |
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE): | ||
Interest expense including amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs | (76) | (74) |
Gain on extinguishment of debt | 1 | 0 |
Income from equity method investments | 14 | 31 |
Other income, net | 40 | 11 |
Total other expense, net | (21) | (32) |
Income (loss) before income taxes | 21 | (11) |
INCOME TAX BENEFIT | 4 | 204 |
NET INCOME | 25 | 193 |
Net loss attributable to the redeemable noncontrolling interests | 0 | 4 |
Net income attributable to the noncontrolling interests | (2) | (12) |
NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO SINCLAIR | $ 23 | $ 185 |
EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE ATTRIBUTABLE TO SINCLAIR: | ||
Basic earnings per share (in dollars per share) | $ 0.35 | $ 2.65 |
Diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share) | $ 0.35 | $ 2.64 |
Basic weighted average common shares outstanding (in shares) | 64,156 | 69,744 |
Diluted weighted average common and common equivalent shares outstanding (in shares) | 64,403 | 69,864 |
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMP
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | |
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | |
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] | ||
Net income | $ 25 | $ 193 |
Unrealized gain (loss) on interest rate swap, net of tax | 4 | (3) |
Comprehensive income | 29 | 190 |
Comprehensive loss attributable to the redeemable noncontrolling interests | 0 | 4 |
Comprehensive income attributable to the noncontrolling interests | (2) | (12) |
Comprehensive income attributable to Sinclair | $ 27 | $ 182 |
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUI
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY AND REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS - USD ($) $ in Millions | Total | Class A Common Stock | Class B Common Stock | Common Stock Class A Common Stock | Common Stock Class B Common Stock | Additional Paid-In Capital | (Accumulated Deficit) Retained Earnings | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | Noncontrolling Interests |
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2022 | $ 194 | ||||||||
Increase (Decrease) in Temporary Equity | |||||||||
Repurchase of redeemable subsidiary preferred equity | (190) | ||||||||
Net (loss) income | (4) | ||||||||
Ending balance at Mar. 31, 2023 | 0 | ||||||||
Beginning balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2022 | 45,847,879 | 23,775,056 | |||||||
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2022 | 681 | $ 1 | $ 0 | $ 624 | $ 122 | $ 1 | $ (67) | ||
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity | |||||||||
Dividends declared and paid on Class A and Class B Common Stock | (18) | (18) | |||||||
Repurchases of Class A Common Stock (in shares) | (3,583,213) | ||||||||
Repurchases of Class A Common Stock | (53) | (53) | |||||||
Class A Common Stock issued pursuant to employee benefit plans (in shares) | 2,095,836 | ||||||||
Class A Common Stock issued pursuant to employee benefit plans | 31 | 31 | |||||||
Distributions to noncontrolling interests | (4) | (4) | |||||||
Other comprehensive (loss) income | (3) | (3) | |||||||
Net (loss) income | 197 | 185 | 12 | ||||||
Ending balance (in shares) at Mar. 31, 2023 | 44,360,502 | 23,775,056 | |||||||
Ending balance at Mar. 31, 2023 | 831 | $ 1 | $ 0 | 602 | 289 | (2) | (59) | ||
Increase (Decrease) in Temporary Equity | |||||||||
Net (loss) income | 0 | ||||||||
Beginning balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2023 | 39,737,682 | 23,775,056 | 39,737,682 | 23,775,056 | |||||
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2023 | 221 | $ 1 | $ 0 | 517 | (234) | 1 | (64) | ||
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity | |||||||||
Dividends declared and paid on Class A and Class B Common Stock | (16) | (16) | |||||||
Class A Common Stock issued pursuant to employee benefit plans (in shares) | 2,567,641 | ||||||||
Class A Common Stock issued pursuant to employee benefit plans | 37 | 37 | |||||||
Distributions to noncontrolling interests | (2) | (2) | |||||||
Other comprehensive (loss) income | 4 | 4 | |||||||
Net (loss) income | 25 | 23 | 2 | ||||||
Ending balance (in shares) at Mar. 31, 2024 | 42,305,323 | 23,775,056 | 42,305,323 | 23,775,056 | |||||
Ending balance at Mar. 31, 2024 | $ 269 | $ 1 | $ 0 | $ 554 | $ (227) | $ 5 | $ (64) |
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQ_2
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY AND REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS (Parenthetical) - $ / shares | 3 Months Ended | |
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | |
Class A Common Stock | ||
Dividends declared per share (in dollars per share) | $ 0.25 | $ 0.25 |
Dividends paid per share (in dollars per share) | 0.25 | 0.25 |
Class B Common Stock | ||
Dividends declared per share (in dollars per share) | 0.25 | 0.25 |
Dividends paid per share (in dollars per share) | $ 0.25 | $ 0.25 |
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | |
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | |
CASH FLOWS (USED IN) FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: | ||
Net income | $ 25 | $ 193 |
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flows (used in) from operating activities: | ||
Amortization of definite-lived intangible and other assets | 38 | 41 |
Depreciation of property and equipment | 25 | 24 |
Amortization of program contract costs | 19 | 22 |
Stock-based compensation | 27 | 23 |
Deferred tax provision (benefit) | 4 | (207) |
Loss on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment | 0 | 6 |
Income from equity method investments | (14) | (31) |
(Income) loss from investments | (27) | 2 |
Distributions from investments | 1 | 28 |
Gain on extinguishment of debt | (1) | 0 |
Change in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions: | ||
(Increase) decrease in accounts receivable | (27) | 4 |
Increase in prepaid expenses and other current assets | (3) | (42) |
(Decrease) increase in accounts payable and accrued and other current liabilities | (35) | 21 |
Net change in net income taxes payable/receivable | (8) | 0 |
Decrease in program contracts payable | (22) | (23) |
Other, net | (6) | 1 |
Net cash flows (used in) from operating activities | (4) | 62 |
CASH FLOWS FROM (USED IN) INVESTING ACTIVITIES: | ||
Acquisition of property and equipment | (21) | (20) |
Purchases of investments | (3) | (33) |
Distributions and proceeds from investments | 77 | 8 |
Other, net | 1 | 1 |
Net cash flows from (used in) investing activities | 54 | (44) |
CASH FLOWS USED IN FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | ||
Repayments of notes payable, commercial bank financing, and finance leases | (34) | (9) |
Repurchase of outstanding Class A Common Stock | 0 | (53) |
Dividends paid on Class A and Class B Common Stock | (16) | (18) |
Redemption of redeemable subsidiary preferred equity | 0 | (190) |
Distributions to noncontrolling interests, net | (2) | (4) |
Other, net | (5) | (5) |
Net cash flows used in financing activities | (57) | (279) |
NET (DECREASE) INCREASE IN CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS, AND RESTRICTED CASH | (7) | (261) |
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS, AND RESTRICTED CASH, beginning of period | 662 | 884 |
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS, AND RESTRICTED CASH, end of period | $ 655 | $ 623 |
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS_2
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($) $ in Millions | Mar. 31, 2024 | Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Current assets: | |||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ 655 | $ 662 | |
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $4 as of both periods | 642 | 616 | |
Income taxes receivable | 7 | 8 | |
Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 177 | 189 | |
Total current assets | 1,481 | 1,475 | |
Property and equipment, net | 720 | 715 | |
Operating lease assets | 139 | 142 | |
Goodwill | 2,082 | 2,082 | |
Indefinite-lived intangible assets | 150 | 150 | |
Other assets | 725 | 742 | |
Total assets | [1] | 6,038 | 6,085 |
Current liabilities: | |||
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities | 854 | 913 | |
Current portion of notes payable, finance leases, and commercial bank financing | 37 | 36 | |
Current portion of operating lease liabilities | 22 | 21 | |
Current portion of program contracts payable | 57 | 76 | |
Other current liabilities | 70 | 57 | |
Total current liabilities | 1,040 | 1,103 | |
Notes payable, finance leases, and commercial bank financing, less current portion | 4,112 | 4,139 | |
Operating lease liabilities, less current portion | 148 | 152 | |
Program contracts payable, less current portion | 11 | 14 | |
Deferred tax liabilities | 258 | 252 | |
Other long-term liabilities | 200 | 204 | |
Total liabilities | [1] | 5,769 | 5,864 |
Commitments and contingencies (See Note 5) | |||
SBG member's deficit: | |||
Accumulated deficit | (227) | (234) | |
Accumulated other comprehensive income | 5 | 1 | |
Total SBG (deficit) equity | 333 | 285 | |
Noncontrolling interests | (64) | (64) | |
Total equity | 269 | 221 | |
Total liabilities and equity | 6,038 | 6,085 | |
Customer relationships, net | |||
Current assets: | |||
Definite-lived intangible assets, net | 352 | 369 | |
Other definite-lived intangible assets, net | |||
Current assets: | |||
Definite-lived intangible assets, net | 389 | 410 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |||
Current assets: | |||
Cash and cash equivalents | 337 | 319 | |
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $4 as of both periods | 577 | 568 | |
Income taxes receivable | 7 | 7 | |
Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 129 | 139 | |
Total current assets | 1,050 | 1,033 | |
Property and equipment, net | 698 | 692 | |
Operating lease assets | 138 | 142 | |
Goodwill | 2,016 | 2,016 | |
Indefinite-lived intangible assets | 123 | 123 | |
Other assets | 199 | 184 | |
Total assets | [2] | 4,838 | 4,837 |
Current liabilities: | |||
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities | 815 | 851 | |
Current portion of notes payable, finance leases, and commercial bank financing | 36 | 36 | |
Current portion of operating lease liabilities | 22 | 21 | |
Current portion of program contracts payable | 57 | 76 | |
Other current liabilities | 69 | 50 | |
Total current liabilities | 999 | 1,034 | |
Notes payable, finance leases, and commercial bank financing, less current portion | 4,098 | 4,124 | |
Operating lease liabilities, less current portion | 148 | 152 | |
Program contracts payable, less current portion | 11 | 14 | |
Deferred tax liabilities | 284 | 283 | |
Other long-term liabilities | 153 | 158 | |
Total liabilities | [2] | 5,693 | 5,765 |
Commitments and contingencies (See Note 5) | |||
SBG member's deficit: | |||
Accumulated deficit | (795) | (865) | |
Accumulated other comprehensive income | 5 | 1 | |
Total SBG (deficit) equity | (790) | (864) | |
Noncontrolling interests | (65) | (64) | |
Total equity | (855) | (928) | |
Total liabilities and equity | 4,838 | 4,837 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Customer relationships, net | |||
Current assets: | |||
Definite-lived intangible assets, net | 226 | 238 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Other definite-lived intangible assets, net | |||
Current assets: | |||
Definite-lived intangible assets, net | $ 388 | $ 409 | |
[1]Our consolidated total assets as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 include total assets of variable interest entities ("VIE") of $78 million and $85 million, respectively, which can only be used to settle the obligations of the VIEs. Our consolidated total liabilities as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 include total liabilities of VIEs of $16 million and $17 million, respectively, for which the creditors of the VIEs have no recourse to us. See Note 8. Variable Interest Entities , respectively, for which the creditors of the VIEs have no recourse to SBG. See Note 7. Variable Interest Entities . |
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (_2
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Mar. 31, 2024 | Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Accounts receivable, allowance for doubtful accounts | $ 4 | $ 4 | |
Assets | [1] | 6,038 | 6,085 |
Liabilities | [1] | 5,769 | 5,864 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |||
Accounts receivable, allowance for doubtful accounts | 4 | 4 | |
Assets | [2] | 4,838 | 4,837 |
Liabilities | [2] | 5,693 | 5,765 |
Consolidated VIEs | |||
Assets | 78 | 85 | |
Liabilities | 22 | 23 | |
Consolidated VIEs | Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |||
Assets | 78 | 85 | |
Liabilities | 22 | 23 | |
Consolidated VIEs | Nonrecourse | |||
Liabilities | 16 | 17 | |
Consolidated VIEs | Nonrecourse | Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |||
Liabilities | $ 16 | $ 17 | |
[1]Our consolidated total assets as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 include total assets of variable interest entities ("VIE") of $78 million and $85 million, respectively, which can only be used to settle the obligations of the VIEs. Our consolidated total liabilities as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 include total liabilities of VIEs of $16 million and $17 million, respectively, for which the creditors of the VIEs have no recourse to us. See Note 8. Variable Interest Entities , respectively, for which the creditors of the VIEs have no recourse to SBG. See Note 7. Variable Interest Entities . |
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OP_2
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | |
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | |
REVENUES: | ||
Media revenues | $ 792 | $ 766 |
Non-media revenues | 6 | 7 |
Revenue | 798 | 773 |
OPERATING EXPENSES: | ||
Media programming and production expenses | 408 | 398 |
Media selling, general and administrative expenses | 196 | 191 |
Amortization of program contract costs | 19 | 22 |
Non-media expenses | 12 | 12 |
Depreciation of property and equipment | 25 | 24 |
Corporate general and administrative expenses | 58 | 58 |
Amortization of definite-lived intangible assets | 38 | 41 |
Loss on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment | 0 | 6 |
Total operating expenses | 756 | 752 |
Operating income | 42 | 21 |
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE): | ||
Interest expense including amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs | (76) | (74) |
Gain on extinguishment of debt | 1 | 0 |
Income from equity method investments | 14 | 31 |
Other income, net | 40 | 11 |
Total other expense, net | (21) | (32) |
Income (loss) before income taxes | 21 | (11) |
INCOME TAX BENEFIT | 4 | 204 |
NET INCOME | 25 | 193 |
Net loss attributable to the redeemable noncontrolling interests | 0 | 4 |
Net income attributable to the noncontrolling interests | (2) | (12) |
NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO SINCLAIR | 23 | 185 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | ||
REVENUES: | ||
Media revenues | 727 | 766 |
Non-media revenues | 0 | 7 |
Revenue | 727 | 773 |
OPERATING EXPENSES: | ||
Media programming and production expenses | 383 | 398 |
Media selling, general and administrative expenses | 183 | 191 |
Amortization of program contract costs | 19 | 22 |
Non-media expenses | 2 | 12 |
Depreciation of property and equipment | 25 | 24 |
Corporate general and administrative expenses | 41 | 58 |
Amortization of definite-lived intangible assets | 33 | 41 |
Loss on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment | 0 | 6 |
Total operating expenses | 686 | 752 |
Operating income | 41 | 21 |
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE): | ||
Interest expense including amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs | (76) | (74) |
Gain on extinguishment of debt | 1 | 0 |
Income from equity method investments | 0 | 31 |
Other income, net | 31 | 11 |
Total other expense, net | (44) | (32) |
Income (loss) before income taxes | (3) | (11) |
INCOME TAX BENEFIT | 9 | 204 |
NET INCOME | 6 | 193 |
Net loss attributable to the redeemable noncontrolling interests | 0 | 4 |
Net income attributable to the noncontrolling interests | (1) | (12) |
NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO SINCLAIR | $ 5 | $ 185 |
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CO_2
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | |
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | |
Net income | $ 25 | $ 193 |
Unrealized gain (loss) on interest rate swap, net of tax | 4 | (3) |
Comprehensive income | 29 | 190 |
Comprehensive loss attributable to the redeemable noncontrolling interests | 0 | 4 |
Comprehensive income attributable to the noncontrolling interests | (2) | (12) |
Comprehensive income attributable to Sinclair | 27 | 182 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | ||
Net income | 6 | 193 |
Unrealized gain (loss) on interest rate swap, net of tax | 4 | (3) |
Comprehensive income | 10 | 190 |
Comprehensive loss attributable to the redeemable noncontrolling interests | 0 | 4 |
Comprehensive income attributable to the noncontrolling interests | (1) | (12) |
Comprehensive income attributable to Sinclair | $ 9 | $ 182 |
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQ_3
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY AND REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS AND MEMBER'S DEFICIT - USD ($) $ in Millions | Total | Class A Common Stock | Class B Common Stock | Common Stock Class A Common Stock | Common Stock Class B Common Stock | Additional Paid-In Capital | Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | Noncontrolling Interests | Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC Common Stock Class A Common Stock | Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC Common Stock Class B Common Stock | Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC Additional Paid-In Capital | Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) | Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC Noncontrolling Interests |
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2022 | $ 194 | $ 194 | ||||||||||||||
Increase (Decrease) in Temporary Equity | ||||||||||||||||
Repurchase of redeemable subsidiary preferred equity | (190) | (190) | ||||||||||||||
Net (loss) income | (4) | (4) | ||||||||||||||
Ending balance at Mar. 31, 2023 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||||
Beginning balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2022 | 45,847,879 | 23,775,056 | 45,847,879 | 23,775,056 | ||||||||||||
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2022 | 681 | $ 1 | $ 0 | $ 624 | $ 122 | $ 1 | $ (67) | 681 | $ 1 | $ 0 | $ 624 | $ 122 | $ 1 | $ (67) | ||
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity | ||||||||||||||||
Dividends declared and paid on Old Sinclair Class A and Class B Common Stock | (18) | (18) | (18) | (18) | ||||||||||||
Repurchases of Old Sinclair Class A Common Stock (in shares) | (3,583,213) | (3,583,213) | ||||||||||||||
Repurchases of Old Sinclair Class A Common Stock | (53) | (53) | (53) | (53) | ||||||||||||
Old Sinclair Class A Common Stock issued pursuant to employee benefit plans (in shares) | 2,095,836 | 2,095,836 | ||||||||||||||
Old Sinclair Class A Common Stock issued pursuant to employee benefit plans | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | ||||||||||||
Distributions to noncontrolling interests | (4) | (4) | (4) | (4) | ||||||||||||
Other comprehensive (loss) income | (3) | (3) | (3) | (3) | ||||||||||||
Net (loss) income | 197 | 185 | 12 | 197 | 185 | 12 | ||||||||||
Ending balance (in shares) at Mar. 31, 2023 | 44,360,502 | 23,775,056 | 44,360,502 | 23,775,056 | ||||||||||||
Ending balance at Mar. 31, 2023 | 831 | $ 1 | $ 0 | 602 | 289 | (2) | (59) | 831 | $ 1 | $ 0 | $ 602 | 289 | (2) | (59) | ||
Increase (Decrease) in Temporary Equity | ||||||||||||||||
Net (loss) income | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||||
Beginning balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2023 | 39,737,682 | 23,775,056 | 39,737,682 | 23,775,056 | ||||||||||||
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2023 | 221 | $ 1 | $ 0 | 517 | (234) | 1 | (64) | (928) | (865) | 1 | (64) | |||||
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity | ||||||||||||||||
Dividends declared and paid on Old Sinclair Class A and Class B Common Stock | (16) | (16) | ||||||||||||||
Old Sinclair Class A Common Stock issued pursuant to employee benefit plans (in shares) | 2,567,641 | |||||||||||||||
Old Sinclair Class A Common Stock issued pursuant to employee benefit plans | 37 | 37 | ||||||||||||||
Contributions from member, net | 65 | 65 | ||||||||||||||
Distributions to noncontrolling interests | (2) | (2) | (2) | (2) | ||||||||||||
Other comprehensive (loss) income | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | ||||||||||||
Net (loss) income | 25 | 23 | 2 | 6 | 5 | 1 | ||||||||||
Ending balance (in shares) at Mar. 31, 2024 | 42,305,323 | 23,775,056 | 42,305,323 | 23,775,056 | ||||||||||||
Ending balance at Mar. 31, 2024 | $ 269 | $ 1 | $ 0 | $ 554 | $ (227) | $ 5 | $ (64) | $ (855) | $ (795) | $ 5 | $ (65) |
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQ_4
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY AND REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS (Parenthetical) | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2023 $ / shares | |
Class A Common Stock | |
Dividends declared on Old Sinclair (in dollars per share) | $ 0.25 |
Dividends paid on Old Sinclair (in dollars per share) | 0.25 |
Class B Common Stock | |
Dividends declared on Old Sinclair (in dollars per share) | 0.25 |
Dividends paid on Old Sinclair (in dollars per share) | 0.25 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Class A Common Stock | |
Dividends declared on Old Sinclair (in dollars per share) | 0.25 |
Dividends paid on Old Sinclair (in dollars per share) | 0.25 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Class B Common Stock | |
Dividends declared on Old Sinclair (in dollars per share) | 0.25 |
Dividends paid on Old Sinclair (in dollars per share) | $ 0.25 |
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CA_2
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | |
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | |
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: | ||
Net income | $ 25 | $ 193 |
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flows (used in) from operating activities: | ||
Amortization of definite-lived intangible and other assets | 38 | 41 |
Depreciation of property and equipment | 25 | 24 |
Amortization of program contract costs | 19 | 22 |
Equity-based compensation | 27 | 23 |
Deferred tax benefit | 4 | (207) |
Loss on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment | 0 | 6 |
Income from equity method investments | (14) | (31) |
(Income) loss from investments | (27) | 2 |
Distributions from investments | 1 | 28 |
Gain on extinguishment of debt | (1) | 0 |
Change in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions: | ||
(Increase) decrease in accounts receivable | (27) | 4 |
Increase in prepaid expenses and other current assets | (3) | (42) |
(Decrease) increase in accounts payable and accrued and other current liabilities | (35) | 21 |
Net change in net income taxes payable/receivable | (8) | 0 |
Decrease in program contracts payable | (22) | (23) |
Other, net | (6) | 1 |
Net cash flows (used in) from operating activities | (4) | 62 |
CASH FLOWS FROM (USED IN) INVESTING ACTIVITIES: | ||
Acquisition of property and equipment | (21) | (20) |
Purchases of investments | (3) | (33) |
Distributions and proceeds from investments | 77 | 8 |
Other, net | 1 | 1 |
Net cash flows from (used in) investing activities | 54 | (44) |
CASH FLOWS USED IN FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | ||
Repayments of notes payable, commercial bank financing, and finance leases | (34) | (9) |
Repurchase of outstanding Old Sinclair Class A Common Stock | 0 | (53) |
Dividends paid on Old Sinclair Class A and Class B Common Stock | (16) | (18) |
Repurchase of redeemable subsidiary preferred equity | 0 | (190) |
Distributions to noncontrolling interests, net | (2) | (4) |
Other, net | (5) | (5) |
Net cash flows used in financing activities | (57) | (279) |
NET (DECREASE) INCREASE IN CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS, AND RESTRICTED CASH | (7) | (261) |
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS, AND RESTRICTED CASH, beginning of period | 662 | 884 |
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS, AND RESTRICTED CASH, end of period | 655 | 623 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | ||
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: | ||
Net income | 6 | 193 |
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flows (used in) from operating activities: | ||
Amortization of definite-lived intangible and other assets | 33 | 41 |
Depreciation of property and equipment | 25 | 24 |
Amortization of program contract costs | 19 | 22 |
Equity-based compensation | 25 | 23 |
Deferred tax benefit | 0 | (207) |
Loss on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment | 0 | 6 |
Income from equity method investments | 0 | (31) |
(Income) loss from investments | (25) | 2 |
Distributions from investments | 0 | 28 |
Gain on extinguishment of debt | (1) | 0 |
Change in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions: | ||
(Increase) decrease in accounts receivable | (10) | 4 |
Increase in prepaid expenses and other current assets | (2) | (42) |
Net change in due to/from member | 17 | 0 |
(Decrease) increase in accounts payable and accrued and other current liabilities | (16) | 21 |
Net change in net income taxes payable/receivable | (9) | 0 |
Decrease in program contracts payable | (22) | (23) |
Other, net | (23) | 1 |
Net cash flows (used in) from operating activities | 17 | 62 |
CASH FLOWS FROM (USED IN) INVESTING ACTIVITIES: | ||
Acquisition of property and equipment | (22) | (20) |
Purchases of investments | 0 | (33) |
Distributions and proceeds from investments | 26 | 8 |
Other, net | 1 | 1 |
Net cash flows from (used in) investing activities | 5 | (44) |
CASH FLOWS USED IN FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | ||
Repayments of notes payable, commercial bank financing, and finance leases | (34) | (9) |
Repurchase of outstanding Old Sinclair Class A Common Stock | 0 | (53) |
Dividends paid on Old Sinclair Class A and Class B Common Stock | 0 | (18) |
Repurchase of redeemable subsidiary preferred equity | 0 | (190) |
Contributions from member, net | 32 | 0 |
Distributions to noncontrolling interests, net | (2) | (4) |
Other, net | 0 | (5) |
Net cash flows used in financing activities | (4) | (279) |
NET (DECREASE) INCREASE IN CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS, AND RESTRICTED CASH | 18 | (261) |
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS, AND RESTRICTED CASH, beginning of period | 319 | 884 |
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS, AND RESTRICTED CASH, end of period | $ 337 | $ 623 |
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMAR
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] | |
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES | NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES: Nature of Operations Sinclair, Inc. ("Sinclair") is a diversified media company with national reach and a strong focus on providing high-quality content on our local television stations and digital platforms. The content, distributed through our broadcast platform and third-party platforms, consists of programming provided by third-party networks and syndicators, local news, other original programming produced by us and our owned networks and professional sports. Additionally, we own digital media companies that are complementary to our extensive portfolio of television station related digital properties and we have interests in, own, manage, and/or operate technical and software services companies, research and development companies for the advancement of broadcast technology, and other media and non-media related businesses and assets, including real estate, venture capital, private equity, and direct investments. For the quarter ended March 31, 2024, we had two reportable segments: local media and tennis. The local media segment consists primarily of our 185 broadcast television stations in 86 markets, which we own, provide programming and operating services pursuant to agreements commonly referred to as local marketing agreements ("LMA"), or provide sales services and other non-programming operating services pursuant to other outsourcing agreements (such as joint sales agreements ("JSA") and shared services agreements ("SSA")). These stations broadcast 639 channels as of March 31, 2024. For the purpose of this report, these 185 stations and 639 channels are referred to as "our" stations and channels. The tennis segment consists of Tennis Channel, a cable network which includes coverage of many of tennis' top tournaments and original professional sports and tennis lifestyle shows; Tennis Channel International streaming service; Tennis Channel Plus streaming service; T2 FAST, a 24-hours a day free ad-supported streaming television channel; and Tennis.com. Principles of Consolidation The consolidated financial statements include our accounts and those of our wholly-owned and majority-owned subsidiaries, and VIEs for which we are the primary beneficiary. Noncontrolling interests represent a minority owner's proportionate share of the equity in certain of our consolidated entities. Noncontrolling interests which may be redeemed by the holder, and the redemption is outside of our control, are presented as redeemable noncontrolling interests. All intercompany transactions and account balances have been eliminated in consolidation. We consolidate VIEs when we are the primary beneficiary. We are the primary beneficiary of a VIE when we have the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the economic performance of the VIE and have the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive returns that would be significant to the VIE. See Note 8. Variable Interest Entities for more information on our VIEs. Investments in entities over which we have significant influence but not control are accounted for using the equity method of accounting. Income from equity method investments represents our proportionate share of net income generated by equity method investees. Company Reorganization On April 3, 2023, the company formerly known as Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc., a Maryland corporation ("Old Sinclair"), entered into an Agreement of Share Exchange and Plan of Reorganization (the "Share Exchange Agreement") with Sinclair, and Sinclair Holdings, LLC, a Maryland limited liability company ("Sinclair Holdings"). The purpose of the transactions contemplated by the Share Exchange Agreement was to effect a holding company reorganization in which Sinclair would become the publicly-traded parent company of Old Sinclair. Effective at 12:00 am Eastern U.S. time on June 1, 2023 (the "Share Exchange Effective Time"), pursuant to the Share Exchange Agreement and Articles of Share Exchange filed with the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation, the share exchange between Sinclair and Old Sinclair was completed (the "Share Exchange"). In the Share Exchange, (i) each share or fraction of a share of Old Sinclair's Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share ("Old Sinclair Class A Common Shares"), outstanding immediately prior to the Share Exchange Effective Time was exchanged on a one-for-one basis for an equivalent share of Sinclair's Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share ("Sinclair Class A Common Shares"), and (ii) each share or fraction of a share of Old Sinclair's Class B common stock, par value $0.01 per share ("Old Sinclair Class B Common Shares"), outstanding immediately prior to the Share Exchange Effective Time was exchanged on a one-for-one basis for an equivalent share of Sinclair’s Class B common stock, par value $0.01 per share ("Sinclair Class B Common Shares"). Immediately following the Share Exchange Effective Time, Old Sinclair converted from a Maryland corporation to a Maryland limited liability company named Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC ("SBG"). On the day following the Share Exchange Effective Time (June 2, 2023), Sinclair Holdings became the intermediate holding company between Sinclair and SBG, and SBG transferred certain of its assets (the "Transferred Assets") to Ventures, a new indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Sinclair. We refer to the Share Exchange and the related steps described above collectively as the "Reorganization." The Transferred Assets included technical and software services companies, intellectual property for the advancement of broadcast technology, and other media and non-media related businesses and assets including real estate, venture capital, private equity, and direct investments, as well as Compulse, a marketing technology and managed services company, and Tennis Channel and related assets. As a result of the Reorganization, the local media segment assets are owned and operated by SBG and the assets of the tennis segment and the Transferred Assets are owned and operated by Ventures. At the Share Exchange Effective Time, Sinclair's articles of incorporation and bylaws were amended and restated to be the same in all material respects as the existing articles of incorporation and bylaws of Old Sinclair immediately prior to the Share Exchange. As a result, the Sinclair Class A Common Shares confer upon the holders thereof the same rights with respect to Sinclair that the holders of the Old Sinclair Class A Common Shares had with respect to Old Sinclair, and the Sinclair Class B Common Shares confer upon the holders thereof the same rights with respect to Sinclair that the holders of the Old Sinclair Class B Common Shares had with respect to Old Sinclair. Sinclair's Board of Directors, including its committees, and senior management team immediately after the Share Exchange were the same as Old Sinclair's immediately before the Share Exchange. The Reorganization is considered transactions between entities under common control and as SBG and Ventures are both subsidiaries of Sinclair, there was no impact on the consolidated financial statements of Sinclair. Interim Financial Statements The consolidated financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 are unaudited. In the opinion of management, such financial statements have been presented on the same basis as the audited consolidated financial statements and include all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments necessary for a fair statement of the consolidated balance sheets, consolidated statements of operations, consolidated statements of comprehensive income, consolidated statements of equity and redeemable noncontrolling interests, and consolidated statements of cash flows for these periods as adjusted for the adoption of recent accounting pronouncements. As permitted under the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), the consolidated financial statements do not include all disclosures normally included with audited consolidated financial statements and, accordingly, should be read together with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 filed with the SEC. The consolidated statements of operations presented in the accompanying consolidated financial statements are not necessarily representative of operations for an entire year. Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses in the consolidated financial statements and in the disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Recent Accounting Pronouncements In October 2021, the FASB issued guidance to improve the accounting for acquired revenue contracts with customers in a business combination by addressing diversity in practice. ASU 2021-08 requires that an acquiring entity recognize and measure contract assets and contract liabilities acquired in a business combination in accordance with Topic 606, as if it had originated the contracts. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2022, including interim periods within those fiscal years. We adopted this guidance during the first quarter of 2023. The impact of the adoption did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. In November 2023, the FASB issued guidance to improve reportable segment disclosure requirements, primarily through enhanced disclosures about significant segment expenses. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, applied retrospectively. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of this guidance. In December 2023, the FASB issued guidance to enhance the transparency and decision usefulness of income tax disclosures, requiring annual disclosure of consistent categories and greater disaggregation of information in the rate reconciliation table; additional information for reconciling items that meet a quantitative threshold (if the effect of those reconciling items is equal to or greater than 5 percent of the amount computed by multiplying pretax income or loss by the applicable statutory income tax rate); income taxes paid disaggregated by jurisdiction; and income or loss before income tax disaggregated between foreign and domestic. The guidance is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024, applied prospectively. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of this guidance. Broadcast Television Programming We have agreements with programming syndicators for the rights to television programming over contract periods, which generally run from one The rights to this programming are reflected in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets at the lower of unamortized cost or fair value. Program contract costs are amortized on a straight-line basis except for contracts greater than three years which are amortized utilizing an accelerated method. Program contract costs estimated by management to be amortized in the succeeding year are classified as current assets. Payments of program contract liabilities are typically made on a scheduled basis and are not affected by amortization or fair value adjustments. Fair value is determined utilizing a discounted cash flow model based on management's expectation of future advertising revenues, net of sales commissions, to be generated by the program material. We assess our program contract costs on a quarterly basis to ensure the costs are recorded at the lower of unamortized cost or fair value. Hedge Accounting We entered into an interest rate swap effective February 7, 2023 and terminating on February 28, 2026 in order to manage a portion of our exposure to variable interest rates. The swap agreement has a notional amount of $600 million, bears a fixed interest rate of 3.9%, and we receive a floating rate of interest based on the Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR"). We have determined that the interest rate swap meets the criteria for hedge accounting. The initial value of the interest rate swap and any changes in value in subsequent periods is included in accumulated other comprehensive income, with a corresponding change recorded in assets or liabilities depending on the position of the swap. Gains or losses on the monthly settlement of the interest rate swap are reflected in i nterest expense in our consolidated statements of operations. Cash flows related to the interest rate swap are classified as operating activities in our consolidated statements of cash flows. See Interest Rate Swap within Note 3. Notes Payable, Finance Leases, and Commercial Bank Financing for further discussion. Non-cash Investing and Financing Activities Leased assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities were $2 million and $3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Leased assets obtained in exchange for new finance lease liabilities were $7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024. Non-cash investing activities included property and equipment purchases of $5 million and $6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Revenue Recognition The following table presents our revenue disaggregated by type and segment (in millions): For the three months ended March 31, 2024 Local Media Tennis Other Eliminations Total Distribution revenue $ 384 $ 52 $ — $ — $ 436 Core advertising revenue 284 10 6 (3) 297 Political advertising revenue 24 — — — 24 Other media, non-media, and intercompany revenues 35 1 9 (4) 41 Total revenues $ 727 $ 63 $ 15 $ (7) $ 798 For the three months ended March 31, 2023 Local Media Tennis Other Eliminations Total Distribution revenue $ 381 $ 45 $ — $ — $ 426 Core advertising revenue 293 9 6 (2) 306 Political advertising revenue 3 — — — 3 Other media, non-media, and intercompany revenues 28 1 11 (2) 38 Total revenues $ 705 $ 55 $ 17 $ (4) $ 773 Distribution Revenue. We have agreements with multi-channel video programming distributors ("MVPD") and virtual MVPDs ("vMVPD," and together with MVPDs, "Distributors"). We generate distribution revenue through fees received from these Distributors for the right to distribute our stations and other properties. Distribution arrangements are generally governed by multi-year contracts and the underlying fees are based upon a contractual monthly rate per subscriber. These arrangements represent licenses of intellectual property; revenue is recognized as the signal or network programming is provided to our customers (as usage occurs) which corresponds with the satisfaction of our performance obligation. Revenue is calculated based upon the contractual rate multiplied by an estimated number of subscribers. Our customers will remit payments based upon actual subscribers a short time after the conclusion of a month, which generally does not exceed 120 days. Historical adjustments to subscriber estimates have not been material. Core Advertising Revenue. We generate advertising revenue primarily from the sale of advertising spots/impressions within our broadcast television and digital platforms. Political Advertising Revenue. We generate political advertising revenue primarily from the sale of political advertising spots/impressions within our broadcast television and digital platforms. In accordance with ASC 606, we do not disclose the value of unsatisfied performance obligations for (i) contracts with an original expected length of one year or less and (ii) distribution arrangements which are accounted for as a sales/usage based royalty. Deferred Revenue. We record deferred revenue when cash payments are received or due in advance of our performance, including amounts which are refundable. We classify deferred revenue as either current in other current liabilities or long-term in other long-term liabilities in our consolidated balance sheets based on the timing of when we expect to satisfy our performance obligations. Deferred revenue was $187 million and $178 million as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively, of which $119 million and $124 million, respectively, was reflected in other long-term liabilities in our consolidated balance sheets. Deferred revenue recognized during the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, included in the deferred revenue balance as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, was $18 million and $19 million, respectively. For the three months ended March 31, 2024, two customers accounted for 11% and 11%, respectively, of our total revenues. For the three months ended March 31, 2023, two customers accounted for 11% and 10%, respectively, of our total revenues. As of March 31, 2024, four customers accounted for 12%, 11%, 10%, and 10%, respectively, of our accounts receivable, net. As of December 31, 2023, two customers accounted for 10% and 10%, respectively, of our accounts receivable, net. For purposes of this disclosure, a single customer may include multiple entities under common control. Income Taxes Our income tax provision for all periods consists of federal and state income taxes. The tax provision for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 is based on the estimated effective tax rate applicable for the full year after taking into account discrete tax items and the effects of the noncontrolling interests. We provide a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets if we determine that it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. In evaluating our ability to realize net deferred tax assets, we consider all available evidence, both positive and negative, including our past operating results, tax planning strategies, current and cumulative losses, and forecasts of future taxable income. In considering these sources of taxable income, we must make certain judgments that are based on the plans and estimates used to manage our underlying businesses on a long-term basis. A valuation allowance has been provided for deferred tax assets related to a substantial amount of our available state net operating loss carryforwards based on past operating results, expected timing of the reversals of existing temporary basis differences, alternative tax strategies, and projected future taxable income. Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2024 was greater than the statutory rate primarily due to an immaterial $7.5 million correcting adjustment related to the accrual of interest income attributable to prior years’ pending income tax refund claims. Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2023, was greater than the statutory rate primarily due to a release of valuation allowance on deferred tax assets relating to deductibility of interest expense under the IRC Section 163(j) as a result of the change in the tax classification of the legal entity owning the Diamond Sports business because of the exit of the sole minority investor. We do not believe that our liability for unrecognized tax benefits would be materially impacted, in the next twelve months, as a result of the expected statute of limitations expirations, the application of limits under available state administrative practice exceptions, and the resolution of examination issues and settlements with federal and certain state tax authorities. Reclassifications Certain reclassifications have been made to prior years' consolidated financial statements to conform to the current year's presentation. Subsequent Events In May 2024, our Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.25 per share, payable on June 17, 2024 to holders of record at the close of business on June 3, 2024. |
OTHER ASSETS
OTHER ASSETS | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract] | |
OTHER ASSETS | OTHER ASSETS: Other assets as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 consisted of the following (in millions): As of March 31, As of December 31, Equity method investments $ 113 $ 128 Other investments 368 387 Income tax receivable 140 131 Post-retirement plan assets 47 45 Other 57 51 Total other assets $ 725 $ 742 Equity Method Investments We have a portfolio of investments, including our investment in Diamond Sports Intermediate Holdings LLC ("DSIH"), and also a number of entities that are primarily focused on the development of real estate and other media and non-media businesses. No investments were individually significant for the periods presented. Diamond Sports Intermediate Holdings LLC. We account for our equity interest in DSIH under the equity method of accounting. As of March 1, 2022, we reflected the investment in DSIH at fair value, which was determined to be nominal. For the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, we recorded no equity method loss related to the investment because the carrying value of the investment is zero and we are not obligated to fund losses incurred by DSIH. Other Investments We measure our investments, excluding equity method investments, at fair value or, in situations where fair value is not readily determinable, we have the option to value investments at cost plus observable changes in value, less impairment. Additionally, certain investments are measured at net asset value ("NAV"). As of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, we held $155 million and $162 million, respectively, in investments measured at fair value. As of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, we held $174 million and $189 million, respectively, in investments measured at NAV. We recognized a fair value adjustment gain of $2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and a fair value adjustment loss of $1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023 associated with these investments, which are reflected in other income, net in our consolidated statements of operations. As of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, our unfunded commitments related to our investments valued using the NAV practical expedient totaled $73 million and $74 million, respectively. Investments accounted for utilizing the measurement alternative were $39 million and $36 million as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. There were no adjustments to the carrying amount of investments accounted for utilizing the measurement alternative for either of the three months ended March 31, 2024 and the three months ended March 31, 2023. Note Receivable We were party to an Accounts Receivable Securitization Facility ("A/R Facility"), held by Diamond Sports Finance SPV, LLC ("DSPV"), an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of DSIH. On May 10, 2023, DSPV paid the Company approximately $199 million, representing the aggregate outstanding principal amount of the loans under the A/R Facility, accrued interest, and outstanding fees and expenses. The A/R Facility was terminated on March 14, 2024. |
NOTES PAYABLE, FINANCE LEASES,
NOTES PAYABLE, FINANCE LEASES, AND COMMERCIAL BANK FINANCING | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Debt Disclosure [Abstract] | |
NOTES PAYABLE, FINANCE LEASES, AND COMMERCIAL BANK FINANCING | NOTES PAYABLE, FINANCE LEASES, AND COMMERCIAL BANK FINANCING: Bank Credit Agreement and Notes The bank credit agreement of Sinclair Television Group, Inc. ("STG"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of SBG (the "Bank Credit Agreement"), includes a financial maintenance covenant, the first lien leverage ratio (as defined in the Bank Credit Agreement), which requires such ratio not to exceed 4.5x, measured as of the end of each fiscal quarter. As of March 31, 2024, the STG first lien leverage ratio was below 4.5x. Under the Bank Credit Agreement, a financial maintenance covenant is only applicable if 35% or more of the capacity (as a percentage of total commitments) under the revolving credit facility, measured as of the last day of each fiscal quarter, is utilized under the revolving credit facility as of such date. Since there was no utilization under the revolving credit facility as of March 31, 2024, STG was not subject to the financial maintenance covenant under the Bank Credit Agreement. The Bank Credit Agreement contains other restrictions and covenants with which STG was in compliance as of March 31, 2024. During the three months ended March 31, 2024, we repurchased $27 million aggregate principal amount of the Term Loan B-2, due September 30, 2026, for consideration of $25 million. The portions of the Term Loan B-2 purchased were canceled immediately following their acquisition. We recognized a gain on extinguishment of the Term Loan B-2 of $1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024. Finance Leases to Affiliates The current portion of notes payable, finance leases, and commercial bank financing in our consolidated balance sheets includes finance leases to affiliates of $2 million as of both March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023. Notes payable, finance leases, and commercial bank financing, less current portion, in our consolidated balance sheets includes finances leases to affiliates of $11 million and $5 million as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. See Note 9. Related Person Transactions. Debt of Variable Interest Entities and Guarantees of Third-Party Obligations STG jointly, severally, unconditionally, and irrevocably guaranteed $2 million of debt of certain third parties as of both March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, all of which related to consolidated VIEs and is included in our consolidated balance sheets as of both March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023. We provide a guarantee of certain obligations of a regional sports network subject to a maximum annual amount of $117 million with annual escalations of 4% for the next five years. We have determined that, as of March 31, 2024, it is not probable that we would have to perform under any of these guarantees. Interest Rate Swap We entered into an interest rate swap effective February 7, 2023 and terminates on February 28, 2026 in order to manage a portion of our exposure to variable interest rates. The swap agreement has a notional amount of $600 million, bears a fixed interest rate of 3.9%, and we receive a floating rate of interest based on SOFR. See Hedge Accounting within Note 1. Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies for further discussion. As of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the fair value of the interest rate swap was an asset o f $7 million and $1 million, respectively, which are recorded in other assets in our consolidated balance sheets. |
REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTER
REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Temporary Equity Disclosure [Abstract] | |
REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS | REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS: We account for redeemable noncontrolling interests in accordance with ASC 480, Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity , and classify them as mezzanine equity in our consolidated balance sheets because their possible redemption is outside of the control of the Company. Our redeemable non-controlling interests consist of the following: Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity . On August 23, 2019, Diamond Sports Holdings LLC ("DSH"), an indirect parent of Diamond Sports Group, LLC ("DSG") and indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, issued preferred equity (the "Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity"). On February 10, 2023, we purchased the remaining 175,000 units of the Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity for an aggregate purchase price of $190 million, representing 95% of the sum of the remaining unreturned capital contribution of $175 million, and accrued and unpaid dividends up to, but not including, the date of purchase. Dividends accrued during the three months ended March 31, 2023 were $3 million and are reflected in net loss attributable to the redeemable noncontrolling interests in our consolidated statements of operations. Dividends accrued during the three months ended March 31, 2023 were paid-in-kind and added to the liquidation preference, which was partially offset by certain required cash tax distributions. |
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] | |
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES | COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES: Litigation We are a party to lawsuits, claims, and regulatory matters from time to time in the ordinary course of business. Actions currently pending are in various stages and no material judgments or decisions have been rendered by hearing boards or courts in connection with such actions. Except as noted below, we do not believe the outcome of these matters, individually or in the aggregate, will have a material effect on our financial statements. FCC Litigation Matters On May 22, 2020, the Federal Communications Commission ("FCC") released an Order and Consent Decree pursuant to which the Company agreed to pay $48 million to resolve the matters covered by a Notice of Apparent Liability for Forfeiture ("NAL") issued in December 2017 proposing a $13 million fine for alleged violations of the FCC's sponsorship identification rules by the Company and certain of its subsidiaries, the FCC's investigation of the allegations raised in the Hearing Designation Order issued in connection with the Company's proposed acquisition of Tribune, and a retransmission related matter. The Company submitted the $48 million payment on August 19, 2020. As part of the consent decree, the Company also agreed to implement a 4-year compliance plan. Two petitions were filed on June 8, 2020 seeking reconsideration of the Order and Consent Decree. The Company filed an opposition to the petitions on June 18, 2020, and the petitions remain pending. On September 1, 2020, one of the individuals who filed a petition for reconsideration of the Order and Consent Decree filed a petition to deny the license renewal application of WBFF(TV), Baltimore, MD, and the license renewal applications of two other Baltimore, MD stations with which the Company has a JSA or LMA, Deerfield Media station WUTB(TV) and Cunningham Broadcasting Corporation ("Cunningham") station WNUV(TV). The Company filed an opposition to the petition on October 1, 2020. On January 18, 2024, a motion was filed to request substitution of the petitioner, who is deceased. On January 29, 2024, the Company filed (1) an opposition to the motion for substitution and (2) a motion to dismiss the petition to deny the renewal applications. An opposition was filed to the motion to dismiss on February 5, 2024, and the Company timely filed its reply on February 13, 2024, and the matter remains pending. On September 2, 2020, the FCC adopted a Memorandum Opinion and Order and NAL against the licensees of several stations with whom the Company has LMAs, JSAs, and/or SSAs in response to a complaint regarding those stations’ retransmission consent negotiations. The NAL proposed a $0.5 million penalty for each station, totaling $9 million. The licensees filed a response to the NAL on October 15, 2020, asking the FCC to dismiss the proceeding or, alternatively, to reduce the proposed forfeiture to $25,000 per station. On July 28, 2021, the FCC issued a forfeiture order in which the $0.5 million penalty was upheld for all but one station. A Petition for Reconsideration of the forfeiture order was filed on August 7, 2021. On March 14, 2022, the FCC released a Memorandum Opinion and Order and Order on Reconsideration, reaffirming the forfeiture order and dismissing (and in the alternative, denying) the Petition for Reconsideration. The Company is not a party to this forfeiture order; however, our consolidated financial statements include an accrual of additional expenses of $8 million for the above legal matters during the year ended December 31, 2021, as we consolidate these stations as VIEs. On September 21, 2022, the FCC released an NAL against the licensees of a number of stations, including 83 Company stations and several stations with whom the Company has LMAs, JSAs, and/or SSAs, for violation of the FCC's limitations on commercial matter in children's television programming related to KidsClick network programming distributed by the Company in 2018. The NAL proposed a fine of $2.7 million against the Company, and fines ranging from $20,000 to $26,000 per station for the other licensees, including the LMA, JSA, and/or SSA stations, for a total of $3.4 million. As of March 31, 2024, we have accrued $3.4 million. On October 21, 2022, the Company filed a written response seeking reduction of the proposed fine amount, and the matter remains pending. Other Litigation Matters On November 6, 2018, the Company agreed to enter into a proposed consent decree with the Department of Justice ("DOJ"). This consent decree resolves the DOJ's investigation into the sharing of pacing information among certain stations in some local markets. The DOJ filed the consent decree and related documents in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia on November 13, 2018. The U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia entered the consent decree on May 22, 2019. The consent decree is not an admission of any wrongdoing by the Company and does not subject the Company to any monetary damages or penalties. The Company believes that even if the pacing information was shared as alleged, it would not have impacted any pricing of advertisements or the competitive nature of the market. The consent decree requires the Company to adopt certain antitrust compliance measures, including the appointment of an Antitrust Compliance Officer, consistent with what the DOJ has required in previous consent decrees in other industries. The consent decree also requires the Company's stations not to exchange pacing and certain other information with other stations in their local markets, which the Company's management had already instructed them not to do. The Company is aware of twenty-two putative class action lawsuits that were filed against the Company following published reports of the DOJ investigation into the exchange of pacing data within the industry. On October 3, 2018, these lawsuits were consolidated in the Northern District of Illinois. The consolidated action alleges that the Company and thirteen other broadcasters conspired to fix prices for commercials to be aired on broadcast television stations throughout the United States and engaged in unlawful information sharing, in violation of the Sherman Antitrust Act. The consolidated action seeks damages, attorneys' fees, costs and interest, as well as injunctions against adopting practices or plans that would restrain competition in the ways the plaintiffs have alleged. The Court denied the defendants' motion to dismiss on November 6, 2020. Discovery commenced shortly after that and is continuing. Under the current schedule set by the Court, fact discovery is scheduled to close 90 days after a Special Master completes his review of the plaintiffs' objections to the defendant's privilege claims. That privilege review is ongoing. On August 18, 2023, the defendants filed objections to the Special Master’s First Report and Recommendations with the Court. The Court overruled the defendants’ objections on January 31, 2024. The Special Master has not indicated when he expects to complete his privilege review. On December 8, 2023, the Court granted final approval of the settlements the plaintiffs had reached with four of the original defendants (CBS, Fox, Cox Media, and ShareBuilders), who agreed to pay a total of $48 million to settle the plaintiffs' claims against them. The Company and the other non-settling defendants continue to believe the lawsuits are without merit and intend to vigorously defend themselves against all such claims. On July 19, 2023, as part of the ongoing bankruptcy proceedings of DSG, an independently managed and unconsolidated subsidiary of Sinclair, DSG and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Diamond Sports Net, LLC, filed a complaint (the "Diamond Litigation"), under seal, in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas naming certain subsidiaries of Sinclair, including SBG and STG, David D. Smith, Sinclair's Executive Chairman, Christopher S. Ripley, Sinclair's President and Chief Executive Officer, Lucy A. Rutishauser, Sinclair's Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, and Scott Shapiro, Sinclair's Executive Vice President, Corporate Development and Strategy, as defendants. In the complaint, plaintiffs challenge a series of transactions involving SBG and certain of its subsidiaries, on the one hand, and DSG and its subsidiaries, on the other hand, since SBG acquired the former Fox Sports regional sports networks from The Walt Disney Company in August 2019. The complaint alleges, among other things, that the management services agreement (the "MSA") entered into by STG and DSG was not fair to DSG and was designed to benefit STG and SBG; that the Bally's Corporation ("Bally's") transaction in November 2020 through which Bally's acquired naming rights to certain regional sports networks was not fair to DSG and was designed to benefit STG and SBG; and that certain distributions made by DSG that were used to pay down preferred equity of DSH, were inappropriate and were conducted at a time when DSG was insolvent. The complaint alleges that SBG and its subsidiaries (other than DSG and its subsidiaries) received payments or indirect benefits of approximately $1.5 billion as a result of the alleged misconduct. The complaint asserts a variety of claims, including certain fraudulent transfers of assets, unlawful distributions and payments, breaches of contracts, unjust enrichment and breaches of fiduciary duties. The plaintiffs are seeking, among other relief, avoidance of fraudulent transfers and unlawful distributions, and unspecified monetary damages to be determined. |
EARNINGS PER SHARE
EARNINGS PER SHARE | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Earnings Per Share [Abstract] | |
EARNINGS PER SHARE | EARNINGS PER SHARE: The following table reconciles income (numerator) and shares (denominator) used in our computations of basic and diluted earnings per share for the periods presented (in millions, except share amounts which are reflected in thousands): Three Months Ended 2024 2023 Income (Numerator) Net income $ 25 $ 193 Net loss attributable to the redeemable noncontrolling interests — 4 Net income attributable to the noncontrolling interests (2) (12) Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per common share available to common shareholders $ 23 $ 185 Shares (Denominator) Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding 64,156 69,744 Dilutive effect of stock-settled appreciation rights and outstanding stock options 247 120 Diluted weighted-average common and common equivalent shares outstanding 64,403 69,864 The following table shows the weighted-average stock-settled appreciation rights and outstanding stock options (in thousands) that are excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per common share as the inclusion of such shares would be anti-dilutive: Three Months Ended 2024 2023 Weighted-average stock-settled appreciation rights and outstanding stock options excluded 5,120 3,645 |
SEGMENT DATA
SEGMENT DATA | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Segment Reporting [Abstract] | |
SEGMENT DATA | SEGMENT DATA: During the period ended June 30, 2023 we modified our segment reporting to align with the new organizational structure of the Company discussed within Company Reorganization under Note 1. Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies. The segment information within the comparative periods presented has been recast to reflect this new presentation. During the period ended March 31, 2024, we measured segment performance based on operating income (loss). For the quarter ended March 31, 2024, we had two reportable segments, local media and tennis. Our local media segment includes our television stations, original networks and content and provides these through free over-the-air programming to television viewing audiences for stations in markets located throughout the continental United States, as well as distributes the content of these stations to MVPDs for distribution to their customers in exchange for contractual fees. See Revenue Recognition under Note 1. Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies for further detail. Our tennis segment provides viewers coverage of many of tennis' top tournaments and original professional sport and tennis lifestyle shows. Other and corporate are not reportable segments but are included for reconciliation purposes. Other primarily consists of non-broadcast digital and internet solutions, technical services, and non-media investments. Corporate costs primarily include our costs to operate as a public company and to operate our corporate headquarters location. All our businesses are located within the United States. As a result of the Reorganization, the local media segment assets are owned and operated by SBG, the assets of the tennis segment are owned and operated by Ventures, and the other Transferred Assets, which are included in other and corporate, are owned and operated by Ventures. Segment financial information is included in the following tables for the periods presented (in millions): As of March 31, 2024 Local Media Tennis Other & Corporate Eliminations Consolidated Assets $ 4,733 $ 300 $ 1,008 $ (3) $ 6,038 For the three months ended March 31, 2024 Local Media Tennis Other & Corporate Eliminations Consolidated Revenue $ 727 $ 63 $ 15 $ (7) (a) $ 798 Depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived intangibles and other assets 58 5 1 (1) 63 Amortization of program contract costs 19 — — — 19 Corporate general and administrative expenses 41 1 16 — 58 Operating income (loss) 41 20 (19) — 42 Interest expense including amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs 76 — — — 76 Income from equity method investments — (1) 15 — 14 For the three months ended March 31, 2023 Local Media Tennis Other & Corporate Eliminations Consolidated Revenue $ 705 $ 55 $ 17 $ (4) (a) $ 773 Depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived intangibles and other assets 59 5 2 (1) 65 Amortization of program contract costs 22 — — — 22 Corporate general and administrative expenses 32 — 26 — 58 (Gain) loss on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment (1) — 7 — 6 Operating income (loss) 41 18 (38) — 21 Interest expense including amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs 74 — — — 74 Income from equity method investments — — 31 — 31 (a) Includes $2 million and $1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, of revenue for services provided by other to local media, which is eliminated in consolidation. |
VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES
VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] | |
VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES | VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES: Certain of our stations provide services to other station owners within the same respective market through agreements, such as LMAs, where we provide programming, sales, operational, and administrative services, and JSAs and SSAs, where we provide non-programming, sales, operational, and administrative services. In certain cases, we have also entered into purchase agreements or options to purchase the license related assets of the licensee. We typically own the majority of the non-license assets of the stations, and in some cases where the licensee acquired the license assets concurrent with our acquisition of the non-license assets of the station, we have provided guarantees to the bank for the licensee's acquisition financing. The terms of the agreements vary, but generally have initial terms of over five years with several optional renewal terms. Based on the terms of the agreements and the significance of our investment in the stations, we are the primary beneficiary when, subject to the ultimate control of the licensees, we have the power to direct the activities which significantly impact the economic performance of the VIE through the services we provide and we absorb losses and returns that would be considered significant to the VIEs. The fees paid between us and the licensees pursuant to these arrangements are eliminated in consolidation. The carrying amounts and classification of the assets and liabilities of the VIEs mentioned above, which have been included in our consolidated balance sheets as of the dates presented, were as follows (in millions): As of March 31, As of December 31, ASSETS Current assets: Accounts receivable, net $ 20 $ 23 Other current assets 2 3 Total current assets 22 26 Property and equipment, net 10 11 Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets 15 15 Definite-lived intangible assets, net 31 33 Total assets $ 78 $ 85 LIABILITIES Current liabilities: Other current liabilities $ 13 $ 14 Notes payable, finance leases and commercial bank financing, less current portion 6 6 Other long-term liabilities 3 3 Total liabilities $ 22 $ 23 The amounts above represent the combined assets and liabilities of the VIEs described above, for which we are the primary beneficiary. Total liabilities associated with certain outsourcing agreements and purchase options with certain VIEs, which are excluded from the above, were $130 million as of both March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, as these amounts are eliminated in consolidation. The assets of each of these consolidated VIEs can only be used to settle the obligations of the VIE. As of March 31, 2024, all of the liabilities are non-recourse to us except for the debt of certain VIEs. See Debt of Variable Interest Entities and Guarantees of Third-Party Obligations under Note 3. Notes Payable, Finance Leases, and Commercial Bank Financing for further discussion. The risk and reward characteristics of the VIEs are similar. Other VIEs We have several investments in entities which are considered VIEs. However, we do not participate in the management of these entities, including the day-to-day operating decisions or other decisions which would allow us to control the entity, and therefore, we are not considered the primary beneficiary of these VIEs. The carrying amounts of our investments in these VIEs for which we are not the primary beneficiary were $171 million and $192 million as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively, and are included in other assets in our consolidated balance sheets. See Note 2. Other Assets for more information related to our equity investments. Our maximum exposure is equal to the carrying value of our investments. The income and loss related to equity method investments and other investments are recorded in income from equity method investments and other income, net, respectively, in our consolidated statements of operations. We recorded a loss of $1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and a gain of $35 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023 related to these investments. We hold substantially all the equity of DSIH and provide certain management and general and administrative services to DSIH. However, it was determined that we are not the primary beneficiary because we lack the ability to control the activities that most significantly drive the economics of the business. The carrying amount of our investment in DSIH is zero and there is no obligation for us to provide additional financial support. We were also party to the A/R Facility held by an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of DSIH which had a maturity date of September 23, 2024. The A/R Facility was terminated on March 14, 2024. See Note Receivable within Note 2. Other Assets |
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Related Party Transactions [Abstract] | |
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS | RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS: Transactions With Our Controlling Shareholders David, Frederick, J. Duncan, and Robert Smith (collectively, the "controlling shareholders") are brothers and hold substantially all of our Class B Common Stock and some of our Class A Common Stock. We engaged in the following transactions with them and/or entities in which they have substantial interests: Leases. Certain assets used by us and our operating subsidiaries are leased from entities owned by the controlling shareholders. Lease payments made to these entities were $2 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023. For further information, see Note 3. Notes Payable, Finance Leases, and Commercial Bank Financing . Charter Aircraft. We lease aircraft owned by certain controlling shareholders. For all leases, we incurred expenses of less than $0.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023. Cunningham Broadcasting Corporation Cunningham owns a portfolio of television stations, including: WNUV-TV Baltimore, Maryland; WRGT-TV Dayton, Ohio; WVAH-TV Charleston, West Virginia; WMYA-TV Anderson, South Carolina; WTTE-TV Columbus, Ohio; WDBB-TV Birmingham, Alabama; WBSF-TV Flint, Michigan; WGTU-TV/WGTQ-TV Traverse City/Cadillac, Michigan; WEMT-TV Tri-Cities, Tennessee; WYDO-TV Greenville, North Carolina; KBVU-TV/KCVU-TV Eureka/Chico-Redding, California; WPFO-TV Portland, Maine; KRNV-DT/KENV-DT Reno, Nevada/Salt Lake City, Utah; and KTXD-TV in Dallas, Texas (collectively, the "Cunningham Stations"). Certain of our stations provide services to the Cunningham Stations pursuant to LMAs or JSAs and SSAs. See Note 8. Variable Interest Entities , for further discussion of the scope of services provided under these types of arrangements. All the non-voting stock of the Cunningham Stations is owned by trusts for the benefit of the children of our controlling shareholders. We consolidate certain subsidiaries of Cunningham with which we have variable interests through various arrangements related to the Cunningham Stations. The services provided to WNUV-TV, WMYA-TV, WTTE-TV, WRGT-TV and WVAH-TV are governed by a master agreement which has a current term that expires on July 1, 2028 and there is one additional five-year renewal term remaining with final expiration on July 1, 2033. We also executed purchase agreements to acquire the license related assets of these stations from Cunningham, which grant us the right to acquire, and grant Cunningham the right to require us to acquire, subject to applicable FCC rules and regulations, 100% of the capital stock or the assets of these individual subsidiaries of Cunningham. Pursuant to the terms of this agreement we are obligated to pay Cunningham an annual fee for the television stations equal to the greater of (i) 3% of each station's annual net broadcast revenue or (ii) $6 million. The aggregate purchase price of these television stations increases by 6% annually. A portion of the fee is required to be applied to the purchase price to the extent of the 6% increase. The cumulative prepayments made under these purchase agreements were $66 million and $65 million as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. The remaining aggregate purchase price of these stations, net of prepayments, as of both March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, was approximately $54 million. Additionally, we provide services to WDBB-TV pursuant to an LMA, which expires April 22, 2025, and have a purchase option to acquire for $0.2 million. We paid Cunningham, under these agreements, $3 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023. The agreements with KBVU-TV/KCVU-TV, KRNV-DT/KENV-DT, WBSF-TV, WDBB-TV, WEMT-TV, WGTU-TV/WGTQ-TV, WPFO-TV, and WYDO-TV expire between April 2025 and November 2029 and certain stations have renewal provisions for successive eight-year periods. As we consolidate the licensees as VIEs, the amounts we earn or pay under the arrangements are eliminated in consolidation and the gross revenues of the stations are reported in our consolidated statements of operations. Our consolidated revenues include $34 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and $36 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023 related to the Cunningham Stations. We have an agreement with Cunningham to provide master control equipment and provide master control services to a station in Johnstown, PA with which Cunningham has an LMA that expires in June 2025. Under the agreement, Cunningham paid us an initial fee of $1 million and pays us $0.3 million annually for master control services plus the cost to maintain and repair the equipment. In addition, we have an agreement with Cunningham to provide a news share service with the Johnstown, PA station for an annual fee of $0.6 million, which increases by 3% on each anniversary and expires in November 2024. We have multi-cast agreements with Cunningham Stations in the Eureka/Chico-Redding, California; Tri-Cities, Tennessee; Anderson, South Carolina; Baltimore, Maryland; Portland, Maine; Charleston, West Virginia; Dallas, Texas; and Greenville, North Carolina markets. In exchange for carriage of these networks in their markets, we paid $0.5 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, under these agreements. Leased Property by Real Estate Ventures Certain of our real estate ventures have entered into leases with entities owned by members of the Smith Family. Total rent payments received under these leases were $0.4 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023. Diamond Sports Intermediate Holdings LLC We account for our equity interest in DSIH as an equity method investment. Management Services Agreement. We have a management services agreement with DSG, a wholly-owned subsidiary of DSIH, in which we provide DSG with affiliate sales and marketing services and general and administrative services. Pursuant to this agreement, the local media segment recorded $13 million and $9 million of revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Note receivable . We received payments totaling $3 million from DSPV during the three months ended March 31, 2023 related to the note receivable associated with the A/R Facility. The A/R Facility was terminated on March 14, 2024. We recorded revenue of $4 million and $5 million during the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, related to certain other transactions between DSIH and the Company. Employees Jason Smith, an employee of the Company, is the son of Frederick Smith, who is a Vice President of the Company and a member of the Company's Board of Directors. Jason Smith received total compensation of $0.2 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, consisting of salary and bonus, and was granted 37,566 shares of restricted stock, vesting over two years, and 500,000 stock appreciation rights, vesting over two years, during the three months ended March 31, 2024. Ethan White, an employee of the Company, is the son-in-law of J. Duncan Smith, who is a Vice President of the Company and Secretary of the Company's Board of Directors. Ethan White received total compensation of $0.1 million, consisting of salary, and less than $0.1 million, consisting of salary and bonus, for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, and was granted 1,503 and 1,252 shares of restricted stock, vesting over two years, during the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Amberly Thompson, an employee of the Company, is the daughter of Donald Thompson, who is an Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer of the Company. Amberly Thompson received total compensation of less than $0.1 million, consisting of salary, and $0.1 million, consisting of salary and bonus, for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Edward Kim, an employee of the company, is the brother-in-law of Christopher Ripley, who is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company. Edward Kim received total compensation of less than $0.1 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, consisting of salary, and was granted 656 and 516 shares of restricted stock, vesting over two years, during the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Frederick Smith is the brother of David Smith, Executive Chairman of the Company and Chairman of the Company's Board of Directors; Robert Smith, a member of the Company's Board of Directors; and J. Duncan Smith. Frederick Smith received total compensation of $0.2 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, consisting of salary and bonus. J. Duncan Smith is the brother of David Smith, Frederick Smith, and Robert Smith. J. Duncan Smith received total compensation of $0.2 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, consisting of salary and bonus. |
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] | |
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS | FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: Accounting guidance provides for valuation techniques, such as the market approach (comparable market prices), the income approach (present value of future income or cash flow), and the cost approach (cost to replace the service capacity of an asset or replacement cost). A fair value hierarchy using three broad levels prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The following is a brief description of those three levels: • Level 1: Observable inputs such as quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. • Level 2: Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. These include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets and quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active. • Level 3: Unobservable inputs that reflect the reporting entity’s own assumptions. The following table sets forth the face value and fair value of our financial assets and liabilities for the periods presented (in millions): As of March 31, 2024 As of December 31, 2023 Face Value Fair Value Face Value Fair Value Level 1: Investments in equity securities N/A $ — N/A $ 6 Money market funds N/A $ 514 N/A $ 588 Deferred compensation assets N/A $ 47 N/A $ 45 Deferred compensation liabilities N/A $ 46 N/A $ 44 Level 2: Investments in equity securities (a) N/A $ 110 N/A $ 110 Interest rate swap (b) N/A $ 7 N/A $ 1 STG (c): 5.500% Senior Notes due 2030 $ 485 $ 349 $ 485 $ 362 5.125% Senior Notes due 2027 $ 274 $ 252 $ 274 $ 248 4.125% Senior Secured Notes due 2030 $ 737 $ 536 $ 737 $ 521 Term Loan B-2, due September 30, 2026 $ 1,185 $ 1,125 $ 1,215 $ 1,124 Term Loan B-3, due April 1, 2028 $ 720 $ 569 $ 722 $ 595 Term Loan B-4, due April 21, 2029 $ 737 $ 575 $ 739 $ 602 Debt of variable interest entities (c) $ 7 $ 7 $ 7 $ 7 Debt of non-media subsidiaries (c) $ 15 $ 15 $ 15 $ 15 Level 3: Investments in equity securities (d) N/A $ 45 N/A $ 46 N/A - Not applicable (a) Consists of warrants to acquire marketable common equity securities. The fair value of the warrants are derived from the quoted trading prices of the underlying common equity securities less the exercise price. (b) We entered into an interest rate swap effective February 7, 2023 and terminating on February 28, 2026 in order to manage a portion of our exposure to variable interest rates. The swap agreement has a notional amount of $600 million, bears a fixed interest rate of 3.9%, and we receive a floating rate of interest based on SOFR. T he fair value of the interest rate swap was an asset as of March 31, 2024. See Hedge Accounting within Note 1. Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Interest Rate Swap within Note 3. Notes Payable, Finance Leases, and Commercial Bank Financing. (c) Amounts are carried in our consolidated balance sheets net of debt discount, premium, and deferred financing cost, which are excluded in the above table, of $43 million and $46 million as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. (d) On November 18, 2020, we entered into a commercial agreement with Bally's and received warrants and options to acquire common equity in the business. During the three months ended March 31, 2024 we recorded a fair value adjustment loss of $1 million. The fair value of the warrants is primarily derived from the quoted trading prices of the underlying common equity. The fair value of the options is derived utilizing the Black Scholes valuation model. The most significant inputs include the trading price of the underlying common stock and the exercise price of the options, which range from $30 to $45 per share. The following table summarizes the changes in financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis and categorized as Level 3 under the fair value hierarchy for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 (in millions): Options and Warrants Three Months Ended March 31, 2024 Fair value at December 31, 2023 $ 46 Measurement adjustments (1) Fair value at March 31, 2024 $ 45 Options and Warrants Three Months Ended March 31, 2023 Fair value at December 31, 2022 $ 75 Measurement adjustments — Fair value at March 31, 2023 $ 75 |
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMM_2
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES | NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES: Nature of Operations Sinclair, Inc. ("Sinclair") is a diversified media company with national reach and a strong focus on providing high-quality content on our local television stations and digital platforms. The content, distributed through our broadcast platform and third-party platforms, consists of programming provided by third-party networks and syndicators, local news, other original programming produced by us and our owned networks and professional sports. Additionally, we own digital media companies that are complementary to our extensive portfolio of television station related digital properties and we have interests in, own, manage, and/or operate technical and software services companies, research and development companies for the advancement of broadcast technology, and other media and non-media related businesses and assets, including real estate, venture capital, private equity, and direct investments. For the quarter ended March 31, 2024, we had two reportable segments: local media and tennis. The local media segment consists primarily of our 185 broadcast television stations in 86 markets, which we own, provide programming and operating services pursuant to agreements commonly referred to as local marketing agreements ("LMA"), or provide sales services and other non-programming operating services pursuant to other outsourcing agreements (such as joint sales agreements ("JSA") and shared services agreements ("SSA")). These stations broadcast 639 channels as of March 31, 2024. For the purpose of this report, these 185 stations and 639 channels are referred to as "our" stations and channels. The tennis segment consists of Tennis Channel, a cable network which includes coverage of many of tennis' top tournaments and original professional sports and tennis lifestyle shows; Tennis Channel International streaming service; Tennis Channel Plus streaming service; T2 FAST, a 24-hours a day free ad-supported streaming television channel; and Tennis.com. Principles of Consolidation The consolidated financial statements include our accounts and those of our wholly-owned and majority-owned subsidiaries, and VIEs for which we are the primary beneficiary. Noncontrolling interests represent a minority owner's proportionate share of the equity in certain of our consolidated entities. Noncontrolling interests which may be redeemed by the holder, and the redemption is outside of our control, are presented as redeemable noncontrolling interests. All intercompany transactions and account balances have been eliminated in consolidation. We consolidate VIEs when we are the primary beneficiary. We are the primary beneficiary of a VIE when we have the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the economic performance of the VIE and have the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive returns that would be significant to the VIE. See Note 8. Variable Interest Entities for more information on our VIEs. Investments in entities over which we have significant influence but not control are accounted for using the equity method of accounting. Income from equity method investments represents our proportionate share of net income generated by equity method investees. Company Reorganization On April 3, 2023, the company formerly known as Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc., a Maryland corporation ("Old Sinclair"), entered into an Agreement of Share Exchange and Plan of Reorganization (the "Share Exchange Agreement") with Sinclair, and Sinclair Holdings, LLC, a Maryland limited liability company ("Sinclair Holdings"). The purpose of the transactions contemplated by the Share Exchange Agreement was to effect a holding company reorganization in which Sinclair would become the publicly-traded parent company of Old Sinclair. Effective at 12:00 am Eastern U.S. time on June 1, 2023 (the "Share Exchange Effective Time"), pursuant to the Share Exchange Agreement and Articles of Share Exchange filed with the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation, the share exchange between Sinclair and Old Sinclair was completed (the "Share Exchange"). In the Share Exchange, (i) each share or fraction of a share of Old Sinclair's Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share ("Old Sinclair Class A Common Shares"), outstanding immediately prior to the Share Exchange Effective Time was exchanged on a one-for-one basis for an equivalent share of Sinclair's Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share ("Sinclair Class A Common Shares"), and (ii) each share or fraction of a share of Old Sinclair's Class B common stock, par value $0.01 per share ("Old Sinclair Class B Common Shares"), outstanding immediately prior to the Share Exchange Effective Time was exchanged on a one-for-one basis for an equivalent share of Sinclair’s Class B common stock, par value $0.01 per share ("Sinclair Class B Common Shares"). Immediately following the Share Exchange Effective Time, Old Sinclair converted from a Maryland corporation to a Maryland limited liability company named Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC ("SBG"). On the day following the Share Exchange Effective Time (June 2, 2023), Sinclair Holdings became the intermediate holding company between Sinclair and SBG, and SBG transferred certain of its assets (the "Transferred Assets") to Ventures, a new indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Sinclair. We refer to the Share Exchange and the related steps described above collectively as the "Reorganization." The Transferred Assets included technical and software services companies, intellectual property for the advancement of broadcast technology, and other media and non-media related businesses and assets including real estate, venture capital, private equity, and direct investments, as well as Compulse, a marketing technology and managed services company, and Tennis Channel and related assets. As a result of the Reorganization, the local media segment assets are owned and operated by SBG and the assets of the tennis segment and the Transferred Assets are owned and operated by Ventures. At the Share Exchange Effective Time, Sinclair's articles of incorporation and bylaws were amended and restated to be the same in all material respects as the existing articles of incorporation and bylaws of Old Sinclair immediately prior to the Share Exchange. As a result, the Sinclair Class A Common Shares confer upon the holders thereof the same rights with respect to Sinclair that the holders of the Old Sinclair Class A Common Shares had with respect to Old Sinclair, and the Sinclair Class B Common Shares confer upon the holders thereof the same rights with respect to Sinclair that the holders of the Old Sinclair Class B Common Shares had with respect to Old Sinclair. Sinclair's Board of Directors, including its committees, and senior management team immediately after the Share Exchange were the same as Old Sinclair's immediately before the Share Exchange. The Reorganization is considered transactions between entities under common control and as SBG and Ventures are both subsidiaries of Sinclair, there was no impact on the consolidated financial statements of Sinclair. Interim Financial Statements The consolidated financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 are unaudited. In the opinion of management, such financial statements have been presented on the same basis as the audited consolidated financial statements and include all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments necessary for a fair statement of the consolidated balance sheets, consolidated statements of operations, consolidated statements of comprehensive income, consolidated statements of equity and redeemable noncontrolling interests, and consolidated statements of cash flows for these periods as adjusted for the adoption of recent accounting pronouncements. As permitted under the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), the consolidated financial statements do not include all disclosures normally included with audited consolidated financial statements and, accordingly, should be read together with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 filed with the SEC. The consolidated statements of operations presented in the accompanying consolidated financial statements are not necessarily representative of operations for an entire year. Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses in the consolidated financial statements and in the disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Recent Accounting Pronouncements In October 2021, the FASB issued guidance to improve the accounting for acquired revenue contracts with customers in a business combination by addressing diversity in practice. ASU 2021-08 requires that an acquiring entity recognize and measure contract assets and contract liabilities acquired in a business combination in accordance with Topic 606, as if it had originated the contracts. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2022, including interim periods within those fiscal years. We adopted this guidance during the first quarter of 2023. The impact of the adoption did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. In November 2023, the FASB issued guidance to improve reportable segment disclosure requirements, primarily through enhanced disclosures about significant segment expenses. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, applied retrospectively. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of this guidance. In December 2023, the FASB issued guidance to enhance the transparency and decision usefulness of income tax disclosures, requiring annual disclosure of consistent categories and greater disaggregation of information in the rate reconciliation table; additional information for reconciling items that meet a quantitative threshold (if the effect of those reconciling items is equal to or greater than 5 percent of the amount computed by multiplying pretax income or loss by the applicable statutory income tax rate); income taxes paid disaggregated by jurisdiction; and income or loss before income tax disaggregated between foreign and domestic. The guidance is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024, applied prospectively. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of this guidance. Broadcast Television Programming We have agreements with programming syndicators for the rights to television programming over contract periods, which generally run from one The rights to this programming are reflected in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets at the lower of unamortized cost or fair value. Program contract costs are amortized on a straight-line basis except for contracts greater than three years which are amortized utilizing an accelerated method. Program contract costs estimated by management to be amortized in the succeeding year are classified as current assets. Payments of program contract liabilities are typically made on a scheduled basis and are not affected by amortization or fair value adjustments. Fair value is determined utilizing a discounted cash flow model based on management's expectation of future advertising revenues, net of sales commissions, to be generated by the program material. We assess our program contract costs on a quarterly basis to ensure the costs are recorded at the lower of unamortized cost or fair value. Hedge Accounting We entered into an interest rate swap effective February 7, 2023 and terminating on February 28, 2026 in order to manage a portion of our exposure to variable interest rates. The swap agreement has a notional amount of $600 million, bears a fixed interest rate of 3.9%, and we receive a floating rate of interest based on the Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR"). We have determined that the interest rate swap meets the criteria for hedge accounting. The initial value of the interest rate swap and any changes in value in subsequent periods is included in accumulated other comprehensive income, with a corresponding change recorded in assets or liabilities depending on the position of the swap. Gains or losses on the monthly settlement of the interest rate swap are reflected in i nterest expense in our consolidated statements of operations. Cash flows related to the interest rate swap are classified as operating activities in our consolidated statements of cash flows. See Interest Rate Swap within Note 3. Notes Payable, Finance Leases, and Commercial Bank Financing for further discussion. Non-cash Investing and Financing Activities Leased assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities were $2 million and $3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Leased assets obtained in exchange for new finance lease liabilities were $7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024. Non-cash investing activities included property and equipment purchases of $5 million and $6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Revenue Recognition The following table presents our revenue disaggregated by type and segment (in millions): For the three months ended March 31, 2024 Local Media Tennis Other Eliminations Total Distribution revenue $ 384 $ 52 $ — $ — $ 436 Core advertising revenue 284 10 6 (3) 297 Political advertising revenue 24 — — — 24 Other media, non-media, and intercompany revenues 35 1 9 (4) 41 Total revenues $ 727 $ 63 $ 15 $ (7) $ 798 For the three months ended March 31, 2023 Local Media Tennis Other Eliminations Total Distribution revenue $ 381 $ 45 $ — $ — $ 426 Core advertising revenue 293 9 6 (2) 306 Political advertising revenue 3 — — — 3 Other media, non-media, and intercompany revenues 28 1 11 (2) 38 Total revenues $ 705 $ 55 $ 17 $ (4) $ 773 Distribution Revenue. We have agreements with multi-channel video programming distributors ("MVPD") and virtual MVPDs ("vMVPD," and together with MVPDs, "Distributors"). We generate distribution revenue through fees received from these Distributors for the right to distribute our stations and other properties. Distribution arrangements are generally governed by multi-year contracts and the underlying fees are based upon a contractual monthly rate per subscriber. These arrangements represent licenses of intellectual property; revenue is recognized as the signal or network programming is provided to our customers (as usage occurs) which corresponds with the satisfaction of our performance obligation. Revenue is calculated based upon the contractual rate multiplied by an estimated number of subscribers. Our customers will remit payments based upon actual subscribers a short time after the conclusion of a month, which generally does not exceed 120 days. Historical adjustments to subscriber estimates have not been material. Core Advertising Revenue. We generate advertising revenue primarily from the sale of advertising spots/impressions within our broadcast television and digital platforms. Political Advertising Revenue. We generate political advertising revenue primarily from the sale of political advertising spots/impressions within our broadcast television and digital platforms. In accordance with ASC 606, we do not disclose the value of unsatisfied performance obligations for (i) contracts with an original expected length of one year or less and (ii) distribution arrangements which are accounted for as a sales/usage based royalty. Deferred Revenue. We record deferred revenue when cash payments are received or due in advance of our performance, including amounts which are refundable. We classify deferred revenue as either current in other current liabilities or long-term in other long-term liabilities in our consolidated balance sheets based on the timing of when we expect to satisfy our performance obligations. Deferred revenue was $187 million and $178 million as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively, of which $119 million and $124 million, respectively, was reflected in other long-term liabilities in our consolidated balance sheets. Deferred revenue recognized during the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, included in the deferred revenue balance as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, was $18 million and $19 million, respectively. For the three months ended March 31, 2024, two customers accounted for 11% and 11%, respectively, of our total revenues. For the three months ended March 31, 2023, two customers accounted for 11% and 10%, respectively, of our total revenues. As of March 31, 2024, four customers accounted for 12%, 11%, 10%, and 10%, respectively, of our accounts receivable, net. As of December 31, 2023, two customers accounted for 10% and 10%, respectively, of our accounts receivable, net. For purposes of this disclosure, a single customer may include multiple entities under common control. Income Taxes Our income tax provision for all periods consists of federal and state income taxes. The tax provision for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 is based on the estimated effective tax rate applicable for the full year after taking into account discrete tax items and the effects of the noncontrolling interests. We provide a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets if we determine that it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. In evaluating our ability to realize net deferred tax assets, we consider all available evidence, both positive and negative, including our past operating results, tax planning strategies, current and cumulative losses, and forecasts of future taxable income. In considering these sources of taxable income, we must make certain judgments that are based on the plans and estimates used to manage our underlying businesses on a long-term basis. A valuation allowance has been provided for deferred tax assets related to a substantial amount of our available state net operating loss carryforwards based on past operating results, expected timing of the reversals of existing temporary basis differences, alternative tax strategies, and projected future taxable income. Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2024 was greater than the statutory rate primarily due to an immaterial $7.5 million correcting adjustment related to the accrual of interest income attributable to prior years’ pending income tax refund claims. Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2023, was greater than the statutory rate primarily due to a release of valuation allowance on deferred tax assets relating to deductibility of interest expense under the IRC Section 163(j) as a result of the change in the tax classification of the legal entity owning the Diamond Sports business because of the exit of the sole minority investor. We do not believe that our liability for unrecognized tax benefits would be materially impacted, in the next twelve months, as a result of the expected statute of limitations expirations, the application of limits under available state administrative practice exceptions, and the resolution of examination issues and settlements with federal and certain state tax authorities. Reclassifications Certain reclassifications have been made to prior years' consolidated financial statements to conform to the current year's presentation. Subsequent Events In May 2024, our Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.25 per share, payable on June 17, 2024 to holders of record at the close of business on June 3, 2024. |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES | NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES: Nature of Operations Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC ("SBG"), a Maryland limited liability company and a wholly owned subsidiary of Sinclair, Inc. ("Sinclair"), is a diversified media company with national reach and a strong focus on providing high-quality content on SBG's local television stations and digital properties. The content, distributed through SBG's broadcast platform and third-party platforms, consists of programming provided by third-party networks and syndicators, local news, other original programming produced by SBG and SBG owned networks. Additionally, prior to the Reorganization (as defined below in Company Reorganization ) , SBG had interests in, owned, managed, and/or operated Tennis Channel, digital media companies, technical and software services companies, research and development companies for the advancement of broadcast technology, and other media and non-media related businesses and assets, including real estate, venture capital, private equity, and direct investments. For the quarter ended March 31, 2024, SBG had one reportable segment: local media. The local media segment consists primarily of SBG's 185 broadcast television stations in 86 markets, which SBG owns, provides programming and operating services pursuant to agreements commonly referred to as local marketing agreements ("LMA"), or provides sales services and other non-programming operating services pursuant to other outsourcing agreements (such as joint sales agreements ("JSA") and shared services agreements ("SSA")). These stations broadcast 639 channels as of March 31, 2024. For the purpose of this report, these 185 stations and 639 channels are referred to as "SBG" stations and channels. Principles of Consolidation The consolidated financial statements include SBG's accounts and those of SBG's wholly-owned and majority-owned subsidiaries, and VIEs for which SBG is the primary beneficiary. Noncontrolling interests represent a minority owner’s proportionate share of the equity in certain of SBG's consolidated entities. Noncontrolling interests which may be redeemed by the holder, and the redemption is outside of SBG's control, are presented as redeemable noncontrolling interests. All intercompany transactions and account balances have been eliminated in consolidation. SBG consolidates VIEs when SBG is the primary beneficiary. SBG is the primary beneficiary of a VIE when SBG has the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the economic performance of the VIE and has the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive returns that would be significant to the VIE. See Note 7. Variable Interest Entities for more information on SBG's VIEs. Investments in entities over which SBG has significant influence but not control are accounted for using the equity method of accounting. Income from equity method investments represents SBG's proportionate share of net income generated by equity method investees. Company Reorganization On April 3, 2023, the company formerly known as Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc., a Maryland corporation ("Old Sinclair"), entered into an Agreement of Share Exchange and Plan of Reorganization (the "Share Exchange Agreement") with Sinclair and Sinclair Holdings, LLC, a Maryland limited liability company ("Sinclair Holdings"). The purpose of the transactions contemplated by the Share Exchange Agreement was to effect a holding company reorganization in which Sinclair would become the publicly-traded parent company of Old Sinclair. Effective at 12:00 am Eastern U.S. time on June 1, 2023 (the "Share Exchange Effective Time"), pursuant to the Share Exchange Agreement and Articles of Share Exchange filed with the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation, the share exchange between Sinclair and Old Sinclair was completed (the "Share Exchange"). Immediately following the Share Exchange Effective Time, Old Sinclair converted from a Maryland corporation to a Maryland limited liability company named Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC. On the day following the Share Exchange Effective Time, Sinclair Holdings became the intermediate holding company between Sinclair and SBG, and SBG transferred certain of its assets (the "Transferred Assets") to Sinclair Ventures, LLC, a new indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Sinclair ("Ventures"). The Share Exchange and the related steps described above collectively are referred to as the "Reorganization." The Transferred Assets included technical and software services companies, intellectual property for the advancement of broadcast technology, and other media and non-media related businesses and assets including real estate, venture capital, private equity, and direct investments, as well as Compulse, a marketing technology and managed services company, and Tennis Channel and related assets. As a result of the Reorganization, SBG's consolidated statement of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2023 includes three months of activity related to the Transferred Assets prior to the Reorganization. Subsequent to June 1, 2023, the assets and liabilities of the Transferred Assets are no longer included within SBG's consolidated balance sheets. Any discussions related to results, operations, and accounting policies associated with the Transferred Assets refer to the periods prior to the Reorganization. Interim Financial Statements SBG's consolidated financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 are unaudited. In the opinion of management, such financial statements have been presented on the same basis as the audited consolidated financial statements and include all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments necessary for a fair statement of the consolidated balance sheets, consolidated statements of operations, consolidated statements of comprehensive income, consolidated statements of equity and redeemable noncontrolling interests, and consolidated statements of cash flows for these periods as adjusted for the adoption of recent accounting pronouncements. As permitted under the applicable rules and regulations of the SEC, SBG's consolidated financial statements do not include all disclosures normally included with audited consolidated financial statements and, accordingly, should be read together with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto in Sinclair's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 filed with the SEC. SBG's consolidated statements of operations presented in the accompanying consolidated financial statements are not necessarily representative of operations for an entire year. Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses in the consolidated financial statements and in the disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Recent Accounting Pronouncements In October 2021, the FASB issued guidance to improve the accounting for acquired revenue contracts with customers in a business combination by addressing diversity in practice. ASU 2021-08 requires that an acquiring entity recognize and measure contract assets and contract liabilities acquired in a business combination in accordance with Topic 606, as if it had originated the contracts. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2022, including interim periods within those fiscal years. SBG adopted this guidance during the first quarter of 2023. The impact of the adoption did not have a material impact on SBG's consolidated financial statements. In November 2023, the FASB issued guidance to improve reportable segment disclosure requirements, primarily through enhanced disclosures about significant segment expenses. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, applied retrospectively. Early adoption is permitted. SBG is currently evaluating the impact of this guidance. In December 2023, the FASB issued guidance to enhance the transparency and decision usefulness of income tax disclosures, requiring annual disclosure of consistent categories and greater disaggregation of information in the rate reconciliation table; additional information for reconciling items that meet a quantitative threshold (if the effect of those reconciling items is equal to or greater than 5 percent of the amount computed by multiplying pretax income or loss by the applicable statutory income tax rate); income taxes paid disaggregated by jurisdiction; and income or loss before income tax disaggregated between foreign and domestic. The guidance is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024, applied prospectively. Early adoption is permitted. SBG is currently evaluating the impact of this guidance. Broadcast Television Programming SBG has agreements with programming syndicators for the rights to television programming over contract periods, which generally run from one The rights to this programming are reflected in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets at the lower of unamortized cost or fair value. Program contract costs are amortized on a straight-line basis except for contracts greater than three years which are amortized utilizing an accelerated method. Program contract costs estimated by management to be amortized in the succeeding year are classified as current assets. Payments of program contract liabilities are typically made on a scheduled basis and are not affected by amortization or fair value adjustments. Fair value is determined utilizing a discounted cash flow model based on management's expectation of future advertising revenues, net of sales commissions, to be generated by the program material. SBG assesses the program contract costs on a quarterly basis to ensure the costs are recorded at the lower of unamortized cost or fair value. Hedge Accounting SBG entered into an interest rate swap effective February 7, 2023 and terminating on February 28, 2026 in order to manage a portion of SBG's exposure to variable interest rates. The swap agreement has a notional amount of $600 million, bears a fixed interest rate of 3.9%, and SBG receives a floating rate of interest based on the Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR"). SBG has determined that the interest rate swap meets the criteria for hedge accounting. The initial value of the interest rate swap and any changes in value in subsequent periods is included in accumulated other comprehensive income, with a corresponding change recorded in assets or liabilities depending on the position of the swap. Gains or losses on the monthly settlement of the interest rate swap are reflected in i nterest expense in SBG's consolidated statements of operations. Cash flows related to the interest rate swap are classified as operating activities in SBG's consolidated statements of cash flows. See Interest Rate Swap within Note 3. Notes Payable, Finance Leases, and Commercial Bank Financing for further discussion. Non-cash Investing and Financing Activities Leased assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities were $2 million and $3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Leased assets obtained in exchange for new finance lease liabilities were $7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024. Non-cash investing activities included property and equipment purchases of $5 million and $6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Revenue Recognition The following table presents SBG's revenue disaggregated by type and segment (in millions): For the three months ended March 31, 2024 Local Media Distribution revenue $ 384 Core advertising revenue 284 Political advertising revenue 24 Other media and intercompany revenues 35 Total revenues $ 727 For the three months ended March 31, 2023 Local Media Other Eliminations Total Distribution revenue $ 381 $ 45 $ — $ 426 Core advertising revenue 293 15 (2) 306 Political advertising revenue 3 — — 3 Other media, non-media, and intercompany revenues 28 12 (2) 38 Total revenues $ 705 $ 72 $ (4) $ 773 Distribution Revenue. SBG has agreements with multi-channel video programming distributors ("MVPD") and virtual MVPDs ("vMVPD," and together with MVPDs, "Distributors"). SBG generates distribution revenue through fees received from these Distributors for the right to distribute SBG's stations and other properties. Distribution arrangements are generally governed by multi-year contracts and the underlying fees are based upon a contractual monthly rate per subscriber. These arrangements represent licenses of intellectual property; revenue is recognized as the signal or network programming is provided to SBG's customers (as usage occurs) which corresponds with the satisfaction of SBG's performance obligation. Revenue is calculated based upon the contractual rate multiplied by an estimated number of subscribers. SBG's customers will remit payments based upon actual subscribers a short time after the conclusion of a month, which generally does not exceed 120 days. Historical adjustments to subscriber estimates have not been material. Core Advertising Revenue. SBG generates advertising revenue primarily from the sale of advertising spots/impressions within broadcast television and digital platforms. Political Advertising Revenue. SBG generates political advertising revenue primarily from the sale of political advertising spots/impressions within broadcast television and digital platforms. In accordance with ASC 606, SBG does not disclose the value of unsatisfied performance obligations for (i) contracts with an original expected length of one year or less and (ii) distribution arrangements which are accounted for as a sales/usage based royalty. Deferred Revenue. SBG records deferred revenue when cash payments are received or due in advance of performance, including amounts which are refundable. SBG classifies deferred revenue as either current in other current liabilities or long-term in other long-term liabilities in SBG's consolidated balance sheets based on the timing of when SBG expects to satisfy performance obligations. Deferred revenue was $180 million and $171 million as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively, of which $119 million and $124 million, respectively, was reflected in other long-term liabilities in SBG's consolidated balance sheets. Deferred revenue recognized during the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, included in the deferred revenue balance as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, was $15 million and $19 million, respectively. For the three months ended March 31, 2024, two customers accounted for 11% and 11%, respectively, of SBG's total revenues. For the three months ended March 31, 2023, two customers accounted for 11% and 10%, respectively, of SBG's total revenues. As of March 31, 2024, four customers accounted for 12%, 11%, 10%, and 10%, respectively, of SBG's accounts receivable, net. As of December 31, 2023, two customers accounted for 10% and 10%, respectively, of SBG's accounts receivable, net. For purposes of this disclosure, a single customer may include multiple entities under common control. Income Taxes SBG’s income tax provision for all periods consists of federal and state income taxes. The tax provision for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 is based on the estimated effective tax rate applicable for the full year after taking into account discrete tax items and the effects of the noncontrolling interests. SBG provides a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets if it is determined that it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. In evaluating SBG’s ability to realize net deferred tax assets, SBG considers all available evidence, both positive and negative, including past operating results, tax planning strategies, current and cumulative losses, and forecasts of future taxable income. In considering these sources of taxable income, SBG must make certain judgments that are based on the plans and estimates used to manage SBG’s underlying businesses on a long-term basis. A valuation allowance has been provided for deferred tax assets related to a substantial amount of SBG’s available state net operating loss carryforwards based on past operating results, expected timing of the reversals of existing temporary basis differences, alternative tax strategies, and projected future taxable income. SBG’s effective income tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2024 was greater than the statutory rate primarily due to an immaterial $7.5 million correcting adjustment related to the accrual of interest income attributable to prior years’ pending income tax refund claims. SBG’s effective income tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2023, was greater than the statutory rate primarily due to a release of valuation allowance on deferred tax assets relating to deductibility of interest expense under the IRC Section 163(j) as a result of the change in the tax classification of the legal entity owning the Diamond Sports business because of the exit of the sole minority investor. SBG does not believe that our liability for unrecognized tax benefits would be materially impacted, in the next twelve months, as a result of the expected statute of limitations expirations, the application of limits under available state administrative practice exceptions, and the resolution of examination issues and settlements with federal and certain state tax authorities. Reclassifications Certain reclassifications have been made to prior years' consolidated financial statements to conform to the current year's presentation. |
OTHER ASSETS_2
OTHER ASSETS | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | |
OTHER ASSETS | OTHER ASSETS: Other assets as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 consisted of the following (in millions): As of March 31, As of December 31, Equity method investments $ 113 $ 128 Other investments 368 387 Income tax receivable 140 131 Post-retirement plan assets 47 45 Other 57 51 Total other assets $ 725 $ 742 Equity Method Investments We have a portfolio of investments, including our investment in Diamond Sports Intermediate Holdings LLC ("DSIH"), and also a number of entities that are primarily focused on the development of real estate and other media and non-media businesses. No investments were individually significant for the periods presented. Diamond Sports Intermediate Holdings LLC. We account for our equity interest in DSIH under the equity method of accounting. As of March 1, 2022, we reflected the investment in DSIH at fair value, which was determined to be nominal. For the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, we recorded no equity method loss related to the investment because the carrying value of the investment is zero and we are not obligated to fund losses incurred by DSIH. Other Investments We measure our investments, excluding equity method investments, at fair value or, in situations where fair value is not readily determinable, we have the option to value investments at cost plus observable changes in value, less impairment. Additionally, certain investments are measured at net asset value ("NAV"). As of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, we held $155 million and $162 million, respectively, in investments measured at fair value. As of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, we held $174 million and $189 million, respectively, in investments measured at NAV. We recognized a fair value adjustment gain of $2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and a fair value adjustment loss of $1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023 associated with these investments, which are reflected in other income, net in our consolidated statements of operations. As of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, our unfunded commitments related to our investments valued using the NAV practical expedient totaled $73 million and $74 million, respectively. Investments accounted for utilizing the measurement alternative were $39 million and $36 million as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. There were no adjustments to the carrying amount of investments accounted for utilizing the measurement alternative for either of the three months ended March 31, 2024 and the three months ended March 31, 2023. Note Receivable We were party to an Accounts Receivable Securitization Facility ("A/R Facility"), held by Diamond Sports Finance SPV, LLC ("DSPV"), an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of DSIH. On May 10, 2023, DSPV paid the Company approximately $199 million, representing the aggregate outstanding principal amount of the loans under the A/R Facility, accrued interest, and outstanding fees and expenses. The A/R Facility was terminated on March 14, 2024. |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | |
OTHER ASSETS | OTHER ASSETS: Other assets as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 consisted of the following (in millions): As of March 31, As of December 31, Equity method investments $ 1 $ 1 Other investments 3 — Income tax receivable 140 131 Other 55 52 Total other assets $ 199 $ 184 Equity Method Investments Prior to the Reorganization, SBG had a portfolio of investments, including a number of entities that are primarily focused on the development of real estate and other media and non-media businesses. SBG has an investment in Diamond Sports Intermediate Holdings LLC ("DSIH"). No investments were individually significant for the periods presented. Diamond Sports Intermediate Holdings LLC. SBG's equity interest in DSIH is accounted for under the equity method of accounting. As of March 1, 2022, SBG reflected the investment in DSIH at fair value, which was determined to be nominal. For the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, SBG recorded no equity method loss related to the investment because the carrying value of the investment is zero and SBG is not obligated to fund losses incurred by DSIH. Other Investments SBG's investments, excluding equity method investments, were accounted for at fair value or, in situations where fair value is not readily determinable, SBG had the option to value investments at cost plus observable changes in value, less impairment. Additionally, certain investments were measured at net asset value ("NAV"). All of the investments measured at fair value and NAV were transferred to Ventures as part of the Reorganization. SBG recognized a fair value adjustment loss of $1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023 associated with these investments, which is reflected in other income, net in SBG's consolidated statements of operations. Investments accounted for utilizing the measurement alternative were $3 million as of March 31, 2024. There were no adjustments to the carrying amount of investments accounted for utilizing the measurement alternative for either of the three months ended March 31, 2024 and the three months ended March 31, 2023. |
NOTES PAYABLE, FINANCE LEASES_2
NOTES PAYABLE, FINANCE LEASES, AND COMMERCIAL BANK FINANCING | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
NOTES PAYABLE, FINANCE LEASES, AND COMMERCIAL BANK FINANCING | NOTES PAYABLE, FINANCE LEASES, AND COMMERCIAL BANK FINANCING: Bank Credit Agreement and Notes The bank credit agreement of Sinclair Television Group, Inc. ("STG"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of SBG (the "Bank Credit Agreement"), includes a financial maintenance covenant, the first lien leverage ratio (as defined in the Bank Credit Agreement), which requires such ratio not to exceed 4.5x, measured as of the end of each fiscal quarter. As of March 31, 2024, the STG first lien leverage ratio was below 4.5x. Under the Bank Credit Agreement, a financial maintenance covenant is only applicable if 35% or more of the capacity (as a percentage of total commitments) under the revolving credit facility, measured as of the last day of each fiscal quarter, is utilized under the revolving credit facility as of such date. Since there was no utilization under the revolving credit facility as of March 31, 2024, STG was not subject to the financial maintenance covenant under the Bank Credit Agreement. The Bank Credit Agreement contains other restrictions and covenants with which STG was in compliance as of March 31, 2024. During the three months ended March 31, 2024, we repurchased $27 million aggregate principal amount of the Term Loan B-2, due September 30, 2026, for consideration of $25 million. The portions of the Term Loan B-2 purchased were canceled immediately following their acquisition. We recognized a gain on extinguishment of the Term Loan B-2 of $1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024. Finance Leases to Affiliates The current portion of notes payable, finance leases, and commercial bank financing in our consolidated balance sheets includes finance leases to affiliates of $2 million as of both March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023. Notes payable, finance leases, and commercial bank financing, less current portion, in our consolidated balance sheets includes finances leases to affiliates of $11 million and $5 million as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. See Note 9. Related Person Transactions. Debt of Variable Interest Entities and Guarantees of Third-Party Obligations STG jointly, severally, unconditionally, and irrevocably guaranteed $2 million of debt of certain third parties as of both March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, all of which related to consolidated VIEs and is included in our consolidated balance sheets as of both March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023. We provide a guarantee of certain obligations of a regional sports network subject to a maximum annual amount of $117 million with annual escalations of 4% for the next five years. We have determined that, as of March 31, 2024, it is not probable that we would have to perform under any of these guarantees. Interest Rate Swap We entered into an interest rate swap effective February 7, 2023 and terminates on February 28, 2026 in order to manage a portion of our exposure to variable interest rates. The swap agreement has a notional amount of $600 million, bears a fixed interest rate of 3.9%, and we receive a floating rate of interest based on SOFR. See Hedge Accounting within Note 1. Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies for further discussion. As of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the fair value of the interest rate swap was an asset o f $7 million and $1 million, respectively, which are recorded in other assets in our consolidated balance sheets. |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
NOTES PAYABLE, FINANCE LEASES, AND COMMERCIAL BANK FINANCING | NOTES PAYABLE, FINANCE LEASES, AND COMMERCIAL BANK FINANCING: Bank Credit Agreement and Notes The bank credit agreement of Sinclair Television Group, Inc. ("STG"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of SBG (the "Bank Credit Agreement"), includes a financial maintenance covenant, the first lien leverage ratio (as defined in the Bank Credit Agreement), which requires such ratio not to exceed 4.5x, measured as of the end of each fiscal quarter. As of March 31, 2024, the STG first lien leverage ratio was below 4.5x. Under the Bank Credit Agreement, a financial maintenance covenant is only applicable if 35% or more of the capacity (as a percentage of total commitments) under the revolving credit facility, measured as of the last day of each fiscal quarter, is utilized under the revolving credit facility as of such date. Since there was no utilization under the revolving credit facility as of March 31, 2024, STG was not subject to the financial maintenance covenant under the Bank Credit Agreement. The Bank Credit Agreement contains other restrictions and covenants with which STG was in compliance as of March 31, 2024. During the three months ended March 31, 2024, STG purchased $27 million aggregate principal amount of the Term Loan B-2, due September 30, 2026, for consideration of $25 million. The portions of the Term Loan B-2 purchased were canceled immediately following their acquisition. STG recognized a gain on extinguishment of the Term Loan B-2 of $1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024. Finance Leases to Affiliates The current portion of notes payable, finance leases, and commercial bank financing in SBG's consolidated balance sheets includes finance leases to affiliates of $2 million as of both March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023. Notes payable, finance leases, and commercial bank financing, less current portion, in SBG's consolidated balance sheets includes finances leases to affiliates of $11 million and $5 million as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. See Note. 8 Related Person Transactions . Debt of Variable Interest Entities and Guarantees of Third-Party Obligations STG jointly, severally, unconditionally, and irrevocably guaranteed $2 million of debt of certain third parties as of both March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, all of which relate to consolidated VIEs and is included in SBG's consolidated balance sheets as of both March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023. SBG provides a guarantee of certain obligations of a regional sports network subject to a maximum annual amount of $117 million with annual escalations of 4% for the next five years. SBG has determined that, as of March 31, 2024, it is not probable that SBG would have to perform under any of these guarantees. Interest Rate Swap SBG entered into an interest rate swap effective February 7, 2023 and terminates on February 28, 2026 in order to manage a portion of SBG's exposure to variable interest rates. The swap agreement has a notional amount of $600 million , bears a fixed interest rate of 3.9%, and SBG receives a floating rate of interest based on SOFR. See Hedge Accounting within Note 1. Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies for further discussion. As of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the fair value of the interest rate swap was an asset o f $7 million and $1 million , respectively, which are recorded in other assets in SBG's consolidated balance sheets. |
REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INT_2
REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] | |
REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS | REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS: We account for redeemable noncontrolling interests in accordance with ASC 480, Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity , and classify them as mezzanine equity in our consolidated balance sheets because their possible redemption is outside of the control of the Company. Our redeemable non-controlling interests consist of the following: Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity . On August 23, 2019, Diamond Sports Holdings LLC ("DSH"), an indirect parent of Diamond Sports Group, LLC ("DSG") and indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, issued preferred equity (the "Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity"). On February 10, 2023, we purchased the remaining 175,000 units of the Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity for an aggregate purchase price of $190 million, representing 95% of the sum of the remaining unreturned capital contribution of $175 million, and accrued and unpaid dividends up to, but not including, the date of purchase. Dividends accrued during the three months ended March 31, 2023 were $3 million and are reflected in net loss attributable to the redeemable noncontrolling interests in our consolidated statements of operations. Dividends accrued during the three months ended March 31, 2023 were paid-in-kind and added to the liquidation preference, which was partially offset by certain required cash tax distributions. |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] | |
REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS | REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS: SBG accounts for redeemable noncontrolling interests in accordance with ASC 480, Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity , and classifies them as mezzanine equity in SBG's consolidated balance sheets because their possible redemption is outside of the control of SBG. SBG's redeemable non-controlling interests consist of the following: Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity . On August 23, 2019, Diamond Sports Holdings LLC ("DSH"), an indirect parent of Diamond Sports Group, LLC ("DSG") and indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of SBG, issued preferred equity (the "Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity"). On February 10, 2023, SBG purchased the remaining 175,000 units of the Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity for an aggregate purchase price of $190 million, representing 95% of the sum of the remaining unreturned capital contribution of $175 million, and accrued and unpaid distributions up to, but not including, the date of purchase. Distributions accrued during the three months ended March 31, 2023 were $3 million and are reflected in net loss attributable to the redeemable noncontrolling interests in SBG's consolidated statements of operations. Distributions accrued during the three months ended March 31, 2023 were paid-in-kind and added to the liquidation preference, which was partially offset by certain required cash tax distributions. |
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES_2
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES | COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES: Litigation We are a party to lawsuits, claims, and regulatory matters from time to time in the ordinary course of business. Actions currently pending are in various stages and no material judgments or decisions have been rendered by hearing boards or courts in connection with such actions. Except as noted below, we do not believe the outcome of these matters, individually or in the aggregate, will have a material effect on our financial statements. FCC Litigation Matters On May 22, 2020, the Federal Communications Commission ("FCC") released an Order and Consent Decree pursuant to which the Company agreed to pay $48 million to resolve the matters covered by a Notice of Apparent Liability for Forfeiture ("NAL") issued in December 2017 proposing a $13 million fine for alleged violations of the FCC's sponsorship identification rules by the Company and certain of its subsidiaries, the FCC's investigation of the allegations raised in the Hearing Designation Order issued in connection with the Company's proposed acquisition of Tribune, and a retransmission related matter. The Company submitted the $48 million payment on August 19, 2020. As part of the consent decree, the Company also agreed to implement a 4-year compliance plan. Two petitions were filed on June 8, 2020 seeking reconsideration of the Order and Consent Decree. The Company filed an opposition to the petitions on June 18, 2020, and the petitions remain pending. On September 1, 2020, one of the individuals who filed a petition for reconsideration of the Order and Consent Decree filed a petition to deny the license renewal application of WBFF(TV), Baltimore, MD, and the license renewal applications of two other Baltimore, MD stations with which the Company has a JSA or LMA, Deerfield Media station WUTB(TV) and Cunningham Broadcasting Corporation ("Cunningham") station WNUV(TV). The Company filed an opposition to the petition on October 1, 2020. On January 18, 2024, a motion was filed to request substitution of the petitioner, who is deceased. On January 29, 2024, the Company filed (1) an opposition to the motion for substitution and (2) a motion to dismiss the petition to deny the renewal applications. An opposition was filed to the motion to dismiss on February 5, 2024, and the Company timely filed its reply on February 13, 2024, and the matter remains pending. On September 2, 2020, the FCC adopted a Memorandum Opinion and Order and NAL against the licensees of several stations with whom the Company has LMAs, JSAs, and/or SSAs in response to a complaint regarding those stations’ retransmission consent negotiations. The NAL proposed a $0.5 million penalty for each station, totaling $9 million. The licensees filed a response to the NAL on October 15, 2020, asking the FCC to dismiss the proceeding or, alternatively, to reduce the proposed forfeiture to $25,000 per station. On July 28, 2021, the FCC issued a forfeiture order in which the $0.5 million penalty was upheld for all but one station. A Petition for Reconsideration of the forfeiture order was filed on August 7, 2021. On March 14, 2022, the FCC released a Memorandum Opinion and Order and Order on Reconsideration, reaffirming the forfeiture order and dismissing (and in the alternative, denying) the Petition for Reconsideration. The Company is not a party to this forfeiture order; however, our consolidated financial statements include an accrual of additional expenses of $8 million for the above legal matters during the year ended December 31, 2021, as we consolidate these stations as VIEs. On September 21, 2022, the FCC released an NAL against the licensees of a number of stations, including 83 Company stations and several stations with whom the Company has LMAs, JSAs, and/or SSAs, for violation of the FCC's limitations on commercial matter in children's television programming related to KidsClick network programming distributed by the Company in 2018. The NAL proposed a fine of $2.7 million against the Company, and fines ranging from $20,000 to $26,000 per station for the other licensees, including the LMA, JSA, and/or SSA stations, for a total of $3.4 million. As of March 31, 2024, we have accrued $3.4 million. On October 21, 2022, the Company filed a written response seeking reduction of the proposed fine amount, and the matter remains pending. Other Litigation Matters On November 6, 2018, the Company agreed to enter into a proposed consent decree with the Department of Justice ("DOJ"). This consent decree resolves the DOJ's investigation into the sharing of pacing information among certain stations in some local markets. The DOJ filed the consent decree and related documents in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia on November 13, 2018. The U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia entered the consent decree on May 22, 2019. The consent decree is not an admission of any wrongdoing by the Company and does not subject the Company to any monetary damages or penalties. The Company believes that even if the pacing information was shared as alleged, it would not have impacted any pricing of advertisements or the competitive nature of the market. The consent decree requires the Company to adopt certain antitrust compliance measures, including the appointment of an Antitrust Compliance Officer, consistent with what the DOJ has required in previous consent decrees in other industries. The consent decree also requires the Company's stations not to exchange pacing and certain other information with other stations in their local markets, which the Company's management had already instructed them not to do. The Company is aware of twenty-two putative class action lawsuits that were filed against the Company following published reports of the DOJ investigation into the exchange of pacing data within the industry. On October 3, 2018, these lawsuits were consolidated in the Northern District of Illinois. The consolidated action alleges that the Company and thirteen other broadcasters conspired to fix prices for commercials to be aired on broadcast television stations throughout the United States and engaged in unlawful information sharing, in violation of the Sherman Antitrust Act. The consolidated action seeks damages, attorneys' fees, costs and interest, as well as injunctions against adopting practices or plans that would restrain competition in the ways the plaintiffs have alleged. The Court denied the defendants' motion to dismiss on November 6, 2020. Discovery commenced shortly after that and is continuing. Under the current schedule set by the Court, fact discovery is scheduled to close 90 days after a Special Master completes his review of the plaintiffs' objections to the defendant's privilege claims. That privilege review is ongoing. On August 18, 2023, the defendants filed objections to the Special Master’s First Report and Recommendations with the Court. The Court overruled the defendants’ objections on January 31, 2024. The Special Master has not indicated when he expects to complete his privilege review. On December 8, 2023, the Court granted final approval of the settlements the plaintiffs had reached with four of the original defendants (CBS, Fox, Cox Media, and ShareBuilders), who agreed to pay a total of $48 million to settle the plaintiffs' claims against them. The Company and the other non-settling defendants continue to believe the lawsuits are without merit and intend to vigorously defend themselves against all such claims. On July 19, 2023, as part of the ongoing bankruptcy proceedings of DSG, an independently managed and unconsolidated subsidiary of Sinclair, DSG and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Diamond Sports Net, LLC, filed a complaint (the "Diamond Litigation"), under seal, in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas naming certain subsidiaries of Sinclair, including SBG and STG, David D. Smith, Sinclair's Executive Chairman, Christopher S. Ripley, Sinclair's President and Chief Executive Officer, Lucy A. Rutishauser, Sinclair's Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, and Scott Shapiro, Sinclair's Executive Vice President, Corporate Development and Strategy, as defendants. In the complaint, plaintiffs challenge a series of transactions involving SBG and certain of its subsidiaries, on the one hand, and DSG and its subsidiaries, on the other hand, since SBG acquired the former Fox Sports regional sports networks from The Walt Disney Company in August 2019. The complaint alleges, among other things, that the management services agreement (the "MSA") entered into by STG and DSG was not fair to DSG and was designed to benefit STG and SBG; that the Bally's Corporation ("Bally's") transaction in November 2020 through which Bally's acquired naming rights to certain regional sports networks was not fair to DSG and was designed to benefit STG and SBG; and that certain distributions made by DSG that were used to pay down preferred equity of DSH, were inappropriate and were conducted at a time when DSG was insolvent. The complaint alleges that SBG and its subsidiaries (other than DSG and its subsidiaries) received payments or indirect benefits of approximately $1.5 billion as a result of the alleged misconduct. The complaint asserts a variety of claims, including certain fraudulent transfers of assets, unlawful distributions and payments, breaches of contracts, unjust enrichment and breaches of fiduciary duties. The plaintiffs are seeking, among other relief, avoidance of fraudulent transfers and unlawful distributions, and unspecified monetary damages to be determined. |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES | COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES: Litigation SBG is a party to lawsuits, claims, and regulatory matters from time to time in the ordinary course of business. Actions currently pending are in various stages and no material judgments or decisions have been rendered by hearing boards or courts in connection with such actions. Except as noted below, SBG does not believe the outcome of these matters, individually or in the aggregate, will have a material effect on SBG's financial statements. FCC Litigation Matters On May 22, 2020, the Federal Communications Commission ("FCC") released an Order and Consent Decree pursuant to which the Company agreed to pay $48 million to resolve the matters covered by a Notice of Apparent Liability for Forfeiture ("NAL") issued in December 2017 proposing a $13 million fine for alleged violations of the FCC's sponsorship identification rules by the Company and certain of its subsidiaries, the FCC's investigation of the allegations raised in the Hearing Designation Order issued in connection with the Company's proposed acquisition of Tribune, and a retransmission related matter. The Company submitted the $48 million payment on August 19, 2020. As part of the consent decree, the Company also agreed to implement a 4-year compliance plan. Two petitions were filed on June 8, 2020 seeking reconsideration of the Order and Consent Decree. The Company filed an opposition to the petitions on June 18, 2020, and the petitions remain pending. On September 1, 2020, one of the individuals who filed a petition for reconsideration of the Order and Consent Decree filed a petition to deny the license renewal application of WBFF(TV), Baltimore, MD, and the license renewal applications of two other Baltimore, MD stations with which the Company has a JSA or LMA, Deerfield Media station WUTB(TV) and Cunningham Broadcasting Corporation ("Cunningham") station WNUV(TV). The Company filed an opposition to the petition on October 1, 2020. On January 18, 2024, a motion was filed to request substitution of the petitioner, who is deceased. On January 29, 2024, the Company filed (1) an opposition to the motion for substitution and (2) a motion to dismiss the petition to deny the renewal applications. An opposition was filed to the motion to dismiss on February 5, 2024, and the Company timely filed its reply on February 13, 2024, and the matter remains pending. On September 2, 2020, the FCC adopted a Memorandum Opinion and Order and NAL against the licensees of several stations with whom the Company has LMAs, JSAs, and/or SSAs in response to a complaint regarding those stations' retransmission consent negotiations. The NAL proposed a $0.5 million penalty for each station, totaling $9 million. The licensees filed a response to the NAL on October 15, 2020, asking the Commission to dismiss the proceeding or, alternatively, to reduce the proposed forfeiture to $25,000 per station. On July 28, 2021, the FCC issued a forfeiture order in which the $0.5 million penalty was upheld for all but one station. A Petition for Reconsideration of the forfeiture order was filed on August 7, 2021. On March 14, 2022, the FCC released a Memorandum Opinion and Order and Order on Reconsideration, reaffirming the forfeiture order and dismissing (and in the alternative, denying) the Petition for Reconsideration. The Company is not a party to this forfeiture order; however, SBG's consolidated financial statements include an accrual of additional expenses of $8 million for the above legal matters during the year ended December 31, 2021, as SBG consolidates these stations as VIEs. On September 21, 2022, the FCC released an NAL against the licensees of a number of stations, including 83 SBG stations and several stations with whom SBG has LMAs, JSAs, and/or SSAs, for violation of the FCC's limitations on commercial matter in children’s television programming related to KidsClick network programming distributed by the Company in 2018. The NAL proposed a fine of $2.7 million against SBG, and fines ranging from $20,000 to $26,000 per station for the other licensees, including the LMA, JSA, and/or SSA stations, for a total of $3.4 million. As of March 31, 2024, SBG has accrued $3.4 million. On October 21, 2022, the Company filed a written response seeking reduction of the proposed fine amount, and the matter remains pending. Other Litigation Matters On November 6, 2018, the Company agreed to enter into a proposed consent decree with the Department of Justice ("DOJ"). This consent decree resolves the DOJ's investigation into the sharing of pacing information among certain stations in some local markets. The DOJ filed the consent decree and related documents in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia on November 13, 2018. The U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia entered the consent decree on May 22, 2019. The consent decree is not an admission of any wrongdoing by the Company and does not subject the Company to any monetary damages or penalties. The Company believes that even if the pacing information was shared as alleged, it would not have impacted any pricing of advertisements or the competitive nature of the market. The consent decree requires the Company to adopt certain antitrust compliance measures, including the appointment of an Antitrust Compliance Officer, consistent with what the DOJ has required in previous consent decrees in other industries. The consent decree also requires the Company's stations not to exchange pacing and certain other information with other stations in their local markets, which the Company's management had already instructed them not to do. The Company is aware of twenty-two putative class action lawsuits that were filed against the Company following published reports of the DOJ investigation into the exchange of pacing data within the industry. On October 3, 2018, these lawsuits were consolidated in the Northern District of Illinois. The consolidated action alleges that the Company and thirteen other broadcasters conspired to fix prices for commercials to be aired on broadcast television stations throughout the United States and engaged in unlawful information sharing, in violation of the Sherman Antitrust Act. The consolidated action seeks damages, attorneys' fees, costs and interest, as well as injunctions against adopting practices or plans that would restrain competition in the ways the plaintiffs have alleged. The Court denied the defendants' motion to dismiss on November 6, 2020. Discovery commenced shortly after that and is continuing. Under the current schedule set by the Court, fact discovery is scheduled to close 90 days after a Special Master completes his review of the plaintiffs' objections to the defendant's privilege claims. That privilege review is ongoing. On August 18, 2023, the defendants filed objections to the Special Master’s First Report and Recommendations with the Court. The Court overruled the defendants’ objections on January 31, 2024. The Special Master has not indicated when he expects to complete his privilege review. On December 8, 2023, the Court granted final approval of the settlements the plaintiffs had reached with four of the original defendants (CBS, Fox, Cox Media, and ShareBuilders), who agreed to pay a total of $48 million to settle the plaintiffs' claims against them. The Company and the other non-settling defendants continue to believe the lawsuits are without merit and intend to vigorously defend themselves against all such claims. On July 19, 2023, as part of the ongoing bankruptcy proceedings of DSG, an independently managed and unconsolidated subsidiary of Sinclair, DSG and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Diamond Sports Net, LLC, filed a complaint (the "DSG Litigation"), under seal, in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas naming certain subsidiaries of Sinclair, including SBG and STG, David D. Smith, Sinclair's Executive Chairman, Christopher S. Ripley, Sinclair's President and Chief Executive Officer, Lucy A. Rutishauser, Sinclair's Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, and Scott Shapiro, Sinclair's Executive Vice President, Corporate Development and Strategy, as defendants. In the complaint, plaintiffs challenge a series of transactions involving SBG and certain of its subsidiaries, on the one hand, and DSG and its subsidiaries, on the other hand, since SBG acquired the former Fox Sports regional sports networks from The Walt Disney Company in August 2019. The complaint alleges, among other things, that the management services agreement (the "MSA") entered into by STG and DSG was not fair to DSG and was designed to benefit STG and SBG; that the Bally's Corporation ("Bally's") transaction in November 2020 through which Bally's acquired naming rights to certain regional sports networks was not fair to DSG and was designed to benefit STG and SBG; and that certain distributions made by DSG that were used to pay down preferred equity of DSH, were inappropriate and were conducted at a time when DSG was insolvent. The complaint alleges that SBG and its subsidiaries (other than DSG and its subsidiaries) received payments or indirect benefits of approximately $1.5 billion as a result of the alleged misconduct. The complaint asserts a variety of claims, including certain fraudulent transfers of assets, unlawful distributions and payments, breaches of contracts, unjust enrichment and breaches of fiduciary duties. The plaintiffs are seeking, among other relief, avoidance of fraudulent transfers and unlawful distributions, and unspecified monetary damages to be determined. The defendants believe the allegations in this lawsuit are without merit and intend to vigorously defend against plaintiffs' claims. |
SEGMENT DATA_2
SEGMENT DATA | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Segment data | |
SEGMENT DATA | SEGMENT DATA: During the period ended June 30, 2023 we modified our segment reporting to align with the new organizational structure of the Company discussed within Company Reorganization under Note 1. Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies. The segment information within the comparative periods presented has been recast to reflect this new presentation. During the period ended March 31, 2024, we measured segment performance based on operating income (loss). For the quarter ended March 31, 2024, we had two reportable segments, local media and tennis. Our local media segment includes our television stations, original networks and content and provides these through free over-the-air programming to television viewing audiences for stations in markets located throughout the continental United States, as well as distributes the content of these stations to MVPDs for distribution to their customers in exchange for contractual fees. See Revenue Recognition under Note 1. Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies for further detail. Our tennis segment provides viewers coverage of many of tennis' top tournaments and original professional sport and tennis lifestyle shows. Other and corporate are not reportable segments but are included for reconciliation purposes. Other primarily consists of non-broadcast digital and internet solutions, technical services, and non-media investments. Corporate costs primarily include our costs to operate as a public company and to operate our corporate headquarters location. All our businesses are located within the United States. As a result of the Reorganization, the local media segment assets are owned and operated by SBG, the assets of the tennis segment are owned and operated by Ventures, and the other Transferred Assets, which are included in other and corporate, are owned and operated by Ventures. Segment financial information is included in the following tables for the periods presented (in millions): As of March 31, 2024 Local Media Tennis Other & Corporate Eliminations Consolidated Assets $ 4,733 $ 300 $ 1,008 $ (3) $ 6,038 For the three months ended March 31, 2024 Local Media Tennis Other & Corporate Eliminations Consolidated Revenue $ 727 $ 63 $ 15 $ (7) (a) $ 798 Depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived intangibles and other assets 58 5 1 (1) 63 Amortization of program contract costs 19 — — — 19 Corporate general and administrative expenses 41 1 16 — 58 Operating income (loss) 41 20 (19) — 42 Interest expense including amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs 76 — — — 76 Income from equity method investments — (1) 15 — 14 For the three months ended March 31, 2023 Local Media Tennis Other & Corporate Eliminations Consolidated Revenue $ 705 $ 55 $ 17 $ (4) (a) $ 773 Depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived intangibles and other assets 59 5 2 (1) 65 Amortization of program contract costs 22 — — — 22 Corporate general and administrative expenses 32 — 26 — 58 (Gain) loss on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment (1) — 7 — 6 Operating income (loss) 41 18 (38) — 21 Interest expense including amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs 74 — — — 74 Income from equity method investments — — 31 — 31 (a) Includes $2 million and $1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, of revenue for services provided by other to local media, which is eliminated in consolidation. |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |
Segment data | |
SEGMENT DATA | SEGMENT DATA: During the period ended June 30, 2023, SBG modified its segment reporting to align with the new organizational structure of SBG discussed within Company Reorganization under Note 1. Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies. The segment information within the comparative periods has been recast to reflect this new presentation. During the period ended March 31, 2024, SBG measured segment performance based on operating income (loss). For the quarter ended March 31, 2024, SBG had one reportable segment: local media. The local media segment includes SBG's television stations, original networks, and content and provides these through free over-the-air programming to television viewing audiences for stations in markets located throughout the continental United States, as well as distributes the content of these stations to MVPDs for distribution to their customers in exchange for contractual fees. See Revenue Recognition under Note 1. Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies for further detail. Other and corporate are not reportable segments but are included for reconciliation purposes. Other primarily consists of tennis, non-broadcast digital and internet solutions, technical services, and non-media investments. Corporate costs primarily include SBG's costs to operate as the parent company of its subsidiaries. All of SBG's businesses are located within the United States. The businesses included in other were transferred to Ventures as part of the Reorganization discussed within Company Reorganization under Note 1. Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Segment financial information is included in the following tables for the periods presented (in millions): As of March 31, 2024 Local Media Corporate Consolidated Assets $ 4,752 $ 86 $ 4,838 For the three months ended March 31, 2024 Local Media Revenue $ 727 Depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived intangibles and other assets 58 Amortization of program contract costs 19 Corporate general and administrative expenses 41 Operating income 41 Interest expense including amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs 76 For the three months ended March 31, 2023 Local Media Other & Corporate (a) Eliminations Consolidated Revenue $ 705 $ 72 $ (4) $ 773 Depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived intangibles and other assets 59 7 (1) 65 Amortization of program contract costs 22 — — 22 Corporate general and administrative expenses 32 26 — 58 (Gain) loss on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment (1) 7 — 6 Operating income (loss) 41 (20) — 21 Interest expense including amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs 74 — — 74 Income from equity method investments — 31 — 31 (a) Represents the activity in tennis, non-broadcast digital and internet solutions, technical services, and non-media investments (collectively, other) prior to the Reorganization on June 1, 2023 and the activity in corporate prior and subsequent to the Reorganization. See Company Reorganization within Note 1. Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies. |
VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES_2
VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] | |
VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES | VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES: Certain of our stations provide services to other station owners within the same respective market through agreements, such as LMAs, where we provide programming, sales, operational, and administrative services, and JSAs and SSAs, where we provide non-programming, sales, operational, and administrative services. In certain cases, we have also entered into purchase agreements or options to purchase the license related assets of the licensee. We typically own the majority of the non-license assets of the stations, and in some cases where the licensee acquired the license assets concurrent with our acquisition of the non-license assets of the station, we have provided guarantees to the bank for the licensee's acquisition financing. The terms of the agreements vary, but generally have initial terms of over five years with several optional renewal terms. Based on the terms of the agreements and the significance of our investment in the stations, we are the primary beneficiary when, subject to the ultimate control of the licensees, we have the power to direct the activities which significantly impact the economic performance of the VIE through the services we provide and we absorb losses and returns that would be considered significant to the VIEs. The fees paid between us and the licensees pursuant to these arrangements are eliminated in consolidation. The carrying amounts and classification of the assets and liabilities of the VIEs mentioned above, which have been included in our consolidated balance sheets as of the dates presented, were as follows (in millions): As of March 31, As of December 31, ASSETS Current assets: Accounts receivable, net $ 20 $ 23 Other current assets 2 3 Total current assets 22 26 Property and equipment, net 10 11 Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets 15 15 Definite-lived intangible assets, net 31 33 Total assets $ 78 $ 85 LIABILITIES Current liabilities: Other current liabilities $ 13 $ 14 Notes payable, finance leases and commercial bank financing, less current portion 6 6 Other long-term liabilities 3 3 Total liabilities $ 22 $ 23 The amounts above represent the combined assets and liabilities of the VIEs described above, for which we are the primary beneficiary. Total liabilities associated with certain outsourcing agreements and purchase options with certain VIEs, which are excluded from the above, were $130 million as of both March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, as these amounts are eliminated in consolidation. The assets of each of these consolidated VIEs can only be used to settle the obligations of the VIE. As of March 31, 2024, all of the liabilities are non-recourse to us except for the debt of certain VIEs. See Debt of Variable Interest Entities and Guarantees of Third-Party Obligations under Note 3. Notes Payable, Finance Leases, and Commercial Bank Financing for further discussion. The risk and reward characteristics of the VIEs are similar. Other VIEs We have several investments in entities which are considered VIEs. However, we do not participate in the management of these entities, including the day-to-day operating decisions or other decisions which would allow us to control the entity, and therefore, we are not considered the primary beneficiary of these VIEs. The carrying amounts of our investments in these VIEs for which we are not the primary beneficiary were $171 million and $192 million as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively, and are included in other assets in our consolidated balance sheets. See Note 2. Other Assets for more information related to our equity investments. Our maximum exposure is equal to the carrying value of our investments. The income and loss related to equity method investments and other investments are recorded in income from equity method investments and other income, net, respectively, in our consolidated statements of operations. We recorded a loss of $1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and a gain of $35 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023 related to these investments. We hold substantially all the equity of DSIH and provide certain management and general and administrative services to DSIH. However, it was determined that we are not the primary beneficiary because we lack the ability to control the activities that most significantly drive the economics of the business. The carrying amount of our investment in DSIH is zero and there is no obligation for us to provide additional financial support. We were also party to the A/R Facility held by an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of DSIH which had a maturity date of September 23, 2024. The A/R Facility was terminated on March 14, 2024. See Note Receivable within Note 2. Other Assets |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] | |
VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES | VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES: Certain of SBG's stations provide services to other station owners within the same respective market through agreements, such as LMAs, where SBG provides programming, sales, operational, and administrative services, and JSAs and SSAs, where SBG provides non-programming, sales, operational, and administrative services. In certain cases, SBG has also entered into purchase agreements or options to purchase the license related assets of the licensee. SBG typically owns the majority of the non-license assets of the stations, and in some cases where the licensee acquired the license assets concurrent with SBG's acquisition of the non-license assets of the station, SBG has provided guarantees to the bank for the licensee's acquisition financing. The terms of the agreements vary, but generally have initial terms of over five years with several optional renewal terms. Based on the terms of the agreements and the significance of SBG's investment in the stations, SBG is the primary beneficiary when, subject to the ultimate control of the licensees, SBG has the power to direct the activities which significantly impact the economic performance of the VIE through the services SBG provides and SBG absorbs losses and returns that would be considered significant to the VIEs. The fees paid between SBG and the licensees pursuant to these arrangements are eliminated in consolidation. The carrying amounts and classification of the assets and liabilities of the VIEs mentioned above, which have been included in SBG's consolidated balance sheets as of the dates presented, were as follows (in millions): As of March 31, As of December 31, ASSETS Current assets: Accounts receivable, net $ 20 $ 23 Other current assets 2 3 Total current assets 22 26 Property and equipment, net 10 11 Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets 15 15 Definite-lived intangible assets, net 31 33 Total assets $ 78 $ 85 LIABILITIES Current liabilities: Other current liabilities $ 13 $ 14 Notes payable, finance leases and commercial bank financing, less current portion 6 6 Other long-term liabilities 3 3 Total liabilities $ 22 $ 23 The amounts above represent the combined assets and liabilities of the VIEs described above, for which SBG is the primary beneficiary. Total liabilities associated with certain outsourcing agreements and purchase options with certain VIEs, which are excluded from the above, were $130 million as of both March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 as these amounts are eliminated in consolidation. The assets of each of these consolidated VIEs can only be used to settle the obligations of the VIE. As of March 31, 2024, all of the liabilities are non-recourse to SBG except for the debt of certain VIEs. See Debt of variable interest entities and guarantees of third-party obligations under Note 3. Notes Payable, Finance Leases, and Commercial Bank Financing for further discussion. The risk and reward characteristics of the VIEs are similar. Other VIEs Prior to the Reorganization, SBG had several investments in entities which are considered VIEs. However, SBG did not participate in the management of these entities, including the day-to-day operating decisions or other decisions which would allow SBG to control the entity, and therefore, SBG was not considered the primary beneficiary of these VIEs. SBG's investments in these VIEs for which SBG was not the primary beneficiary were transferred to Ventures as part of the Reorganization. The income and loss related to equity method investments and other investments are recorded in income from equity method investments and other income, net, respectively, in SBG's consolidated statements of operations. SBG recorded a gain of $35 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, related to these investments. |
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS_2
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS | RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS: Transactions With Our Controlling Shareholders David, Frederick, J. Duncan, and Robert Smith (collectively, the "controlling shareholders") are brothers and hold substantially all of our Class B Common Stock and some of our Class A Common Stock. We engaged in the following transactions with them and/or entities in which they have substantial interests: Leases. Certain assets used by us and our operating subsidiaries are leased from entities owned by the controlling shareholders. Lease payments made to these entities were $2 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023. For further information, see Note 3. Notes Payable, Finance Leases, and Commercial Bank Financing . Charter Aircraft. We lease aircraft owned by certain controlling shareholders. For all leases, we incurred expenses of less than $0.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023. Cunningham Broadcasting Corporation Cunningham owns a portfolio of television stations, including: WNUV-TV Baltimore, Maryland; WRGT-TV Dayton, Ohio; WVAH-TV Charleston, West Virginia; WMYA-TV Anderson, South Carolina; WTTE-TV Columbus, Ohio; WDBB-TV Birmingham, Alabama; WBSF-TV Flint, Michigan; WGTU-TV/WGTQ-TV Traverse City/Cadillac, Michigan; WEMT-TV Tri-Cities, Tennessee; WYDO-TV Greenville, North Carolina; KBVU-TV/KCVU-TV Eureka/Chico-Redding, California; WPFO-TV Portland, Maine; KRNV-DT/KENV-DT Reno, Nevada/Salt Lake City, Utah; and KTXD-TV in Dallas, Texas (collectively, the "Cunningham Stations"). Certain of our stations provide services to the Cunningham Stations pursuant to LMAs or JSAs and SSAs. See Note 8. Variable Interest Entities , for further discussion of the scope of services provided under these types of arrangements. All the non-voting stock of the Cunningham Stations is owned by trusts for the benefit of the children of our controlling shareholders. We consolidate certain subsidiaries of Cunningham with which we have variable interests through various arrangements related to the Cunningham Stations. The services provided to WNUV-TV, WMYA-TV, WTTE-TV, WRGT-TV and WVAH-TV are governed by a master agreement which has a current term that expires on July 1, 2028 and there is one additional five-year renewal term remaining with final expiration on July 1, 2033. We also executed purchase agreements to acquire the license related assets of these stations from Cunningham, which grant us the right to acquire, and grant Cunningham the right to require us to acquire, subject to applicable FCC rules and regulations, 100% of the capital stock or the assets of these individual subsidiaries of Cunningham. Pursuant to the terms of this agreement we are obligated to pay Cunningham an annual fee for the television stations equal to the greater of (i) 3% of each station's annual net broadcast revenue or (ii) $6 million. The aggregate purchase price of these television stations increases by 6% annually. A portion of the fee is required to be applied to the purchase price to the extent of the 6% increase. The cumulative prepayments made under these purchase agreements were $66 million and $65 million as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. The remaining aggregate purchase price of these stations, net of prepayments, as of both March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, was approximately $54 million. Additionally, we provide services to WDBB-TV pursuant to an LMA, which expires April 22, 2025, and have a purchase option to acquire for $0.2 million. We paid Cunningham, under these agreements, $3 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023. The agreements with KBVU-TV/KCVU-TV, KRNV-DT/KENV-DT, WBSF-TV, WDBB-TV, WEMT-TV, WGTU-TV/WGTQ-TV, WPFO-TV, and WYDO-TV expire between April 2025 and November 2029 and certain stations have renewal provisions for successive eight-year periods. As we consolidate the licensees as VIEs, the amounts we earn or pay under the arrangements are eliminated in consolidation and the gross revenues of the stations are reported in our consolidated statements of operations. Our consolidated revenues include $34 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and $36 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023 related to the Cunningham Stations. We have an agreement with Cunningham to provide master control equipment and provide master control services to a station in Johnstown, PA with which Cunningham has an LMA that expires in June 2025. Under the agreement, Cunningham paid us an initial fee of $1 million and pays us $0.3 million annually for master control services plus the cost to maintain and repair the equipment. In addition, we have an agreement with Cunningham to provide a news share service with the Johnstown, PA station for an annual fee of $0.6 million, which increases by 3% on each anniversary and expires in November 2024. We have multi-cast agreements with Cunningham Stations in the Eureka/Chico-Redding, California; Tri-Cities, Tennessee; Anderson, South Carolina; Baltimore, Maryland; Portland, Maine; Charleston, West Virginia; Dallas, Texas; and Greenville, North Carolina markets. In exchange for carriage of these networks in their markets, we paid $0.5 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, under these agreements. Leased Property by Real Estate Ventures Certain of our real estate ventures have entered into leases with entities owned by members of the Smith Family. Total rent payments received under these leases were $0.4 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023. Diamond Sports Intermediate Holdings LLC We account for our equity interest in DSIH as an equity method investment. Management Services Agreement. We have a management services agreement with DSG, a wholly-owned subsidiary of DSIH, in which we provide DSG with affiliate sales and marketing services and general and administrative services. Pursuant to this agreement, the local media segment recorded $13 million and $9 million of revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Note receivable . We received payments totaling $3 million from DSPV during the three months ended March 31, 2023 related to the note receivable associated with the A/R Facility. The A/R Facility was terminated on March 14, 2024. We recorded revenue of $4 million and $5 million during the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, related to certain other transactions between DSIH and the Company. Employees Jason Smith, an employee of the Company, is the son of Frederick Smith, who is a Vice President of the Company and a member of the Company's Board of Directors. Jason Smith received total compensation of $0.2 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, consisting of salary and bonus, and was granted 37,566 shares of restricted stock, vesting over two years, and 500,000 stock appreciation rights, vesting over two years, during the three months ended March 31, 2024. Ethan White, an employee of the Company, is the son-in-law of J. Duncan Smith, who is a Vice President of the Company and Secretary of the Company's Board of Directors. Ethan White received total compensation of $0.1 million, consisting of salary, and less than $0.1 million, consisting of salary and bonus, for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, and was granted 1,503 and 1,252 shares of restricted stock, vesting over two years, during the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Amberly Thompson, an employee of the Company, is the daughter of Donald Thompson, who is an Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer of the Company. Amberly Thompson received total compensation of less than $0.1 million, consisting of salary, and $0.1 million, consisting of salary and bonus, for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Edward Kim, an employee of the company, is the brother-in-law of Christopher Ripley, who is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company. Edward Kim received total compensation of less than $0.1 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, consisting of salary, and was granted 656 and 516 shares of restricted stock, vesting over two years, during the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Frederick Smith is the brother of David Smith, Executive Chairman of the Company and Chairman of the Company's Board of Directors; Robert Smith, a member of the Company's Board of Directors; and J. Duncan Smith. Frederick Smith received total compensation of $0.2 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, consisting of salary and bonus. J. Duncan Smith is the brother of David Smith, Frederick Smith, and Robert Smith. J. Duncan Smith received total compensation of $0.2 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, consisting of salary and bonus. |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS | RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS: Transactions With SBG's Indirect Controlling Shareholders David, Frederick, J. Duncan, and Robert Smith (collectively, the "Sinclair controlling shareholders") are brothers and hold substantially all of the Sinclair Class B Common Stock and some of the Sinclair Class A Common Stock and, subsequent to the Reorganization, the Sinclair controlling shareholders are on the Board of Managers of SBG. SBG engaged in the following transactions with them and/or entities in which they have substantial interests: Leases. Certain assets used by SBG and SBG's operating subsidiaries are leased from entities owned by the Sinclair controlling shareholders. Lease payments made to these entities were $2 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023. For further information, see Note 3. Notes Payable, Finance Leases, and Commercial Bank Financing . Charter Aircraft. SBG leases aircraft owned by certain Sinclair controlling shareholders. For all leases, SBG incurred expenses of less than $0.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023. Cunningham Broadcasting Corporation Cunningham owns a portfolio of television stations, including: WNUV-TV Baltimore, Maryland; WRGT-TV Dayton, Ohio; WVAH-TV Charleston, West Virginia; WMYA-TV Anderson, South Carolina; WTTE-TV Columbus, Ohio; WDBB-TV Birmingham, Alabama; WBSF-TV Flint, Michigan; WGTU-TV/WGTQ-TV Traverse City/Cadillac, Michigan; WEMT-TV Tri-Cities, Tennessee; WYDO-TV Greenville, North Carolina; KBVU-TV/KCVU-TV Eureka/Chico-Redding, California; WPFO-TV Portland, Maine; KRNV-DT/KENV-DT Reno, Nevada/Salt Lake City, Utah; and KTXD-TV in Dallas, Texas (collectively, the "Cunningham Stations"). Certain of SBG's stations provide services to the Cunningham Stations pursuant to LMAs or JSAs and SSAs. See Note 7. Variable Interest Entities , for further discussion of the scope of services provided under these types of arrangements. All of the non-voting stock of the Cunningham Stations is owned by trusts for the benefit of the children of the Sinclair controlling shareholders. SBG consolidates certain subsidiaries of Cunningham with which SBG has variable interests through various arrangements related to the Cunningham Stations. The services provided to WNUV-TV, WMYA-TV, WTTE-TV, WRGT-TV and WVAH-TV are governed by a master agreement which has a current term that expires on July 1, 2028 and there is one additional five-year renewal term remaining with final expiration on July 1, 2033. SBG also executed purchase agreements to acquire the license related assets of these stations from Cunningham, which grant SBG the right to acquire, and grant Cunningham the right to require SBG to acquire, subject to applicable FCC rules and regulations, 100% of the capital stock or the assets of these individual subsidiaries of Cunningham. Pursuant to the terms of this agreement SBG is obligated to pay Cunningham an annual fee for the television stations equal to the greater of (i) 3% of each station's annual net broadcast revenue or (ii) $6 million. The aggregate purchase price of these television stations increases by 6% annually. A portion of the fee is required to be applied to the purchase price to the extent of the 6% increase. The cumulative prepayments made under these purchase agreements were $66 million and $65 million as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. The remaining aggregate purchase price of these stations, net of prepayments, as of both March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, was approximately $54 million. Additionally, SBG provides services to WDBB-TV pursuant to an LMA, which expires April 22, 2025, and has a purchase option to acquire for $0.2 million. SBG paid Cunningham, under these agreements, $3 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023. The agreements with KBVU-TV/KCVU-TV, KRNV-DT/KENV-DT, WBSF-TV, WDBB-TV, WEMT-TV, WGTU-TV/WGTQ-TV, WPFO-TV, and WYDO-TV expire between April 2025 and November 2029 and certain stations have renewal provisions for successive eight-year periods. As SBG consolidates the licensees as VIEs, the amounts SBG earns or pays under the arrangements are eliminated in consolidation and the gross revenues of the stations are reported in SBG's consolidated statements of operations. SBG's consolidated revenues include $34 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and $36 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, related to the Cunningham Stations. SBG has an agreement with Cunningham to provide master control equipment and provide master control services to a station in Johnstown, PA with which Cunningham has an LMA that expires in June 2025. Under the agreement, Cunningham paid SBG an initial fee of $1 million and pays SBG $0.3 million annually for master control services plus the cost to maintain and repair the equipment. In addition, SBG has an agreement with Cunningham to provide a news share service with the Johnstown, PA station for an annual fee of $0.6 million, which increases by 3% on each anniversary and expires in November 2024. SBG has multi-cast agreements with Cunningham Stations in the Eureka/Chico-Redding, California; Tri-Cities, Tennessee; Anderson, South Carolina; Baltimore, Maryland; Portland, Maine; Charleston, West Virginia; Dallas, Texas; and Greenville, North Carolina markets. In exchange for carriage of these networks in their markets, SBG paid $0.5 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, under these agreements. Leased Property by Real Estate Ventures Certain of SBG's real estate ventures have entered into leases with entities owned by members of the Smith Family. Total rent payments received under these leases were $0.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023. Sinclair, Inc. Subsequent to the Reorganization, Sinclair is the sole member of SBG. See Company Reorganization within Note 1. Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies for further discussion. SBG recorded revenue of $2 million during the three months ended March 31, 2024, within the local media segment related to sales services provided by SBG to Sinclair, and certain of its direct and indirect subsidiaries. SBG recorded expenses of $2 million during the three months ended March 31, 2024, within the local media segment related to digital advertising services provided by Sinclair, and certain of its direct and indirect subsidiaries, to SBG. SBG received net cash payments of $15 million from Sinclair, and certain of its direct and indirect subsidiaries, during the three months ended March 31, 2024. As of March 31, 2024, SBG had a payable to Sinclair, and certain of its direct and indirect subsidiaries, of $6 million, included within other current liabilities in SBG's consolidated balance sheets, and as of December 31, 2023, SBG had a receivable from Sinclair, and certain of its direct and indirect subsidiaries, of $3 million, included within prepaid expenses and other current assets in SBG's consolidated balance sheets. Diamond Sports Intermediate Holdings LLC SBG's equity interest in DSIH is accounted for as an equity method investment. Management Services Agreement. SBG has a management services agreement with DSG, a wholly-owned subsidiary of DSIH, in which SBG provides DSG with affiliate sales and marketing services and general and administrative services. Pursuant to this agreement, SBG recorded $13 million of revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and $9 million of revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2023. Note receivable . SBG received payments of $3 million from DSPV during the three months ended March 31, 2023 related to the note receivable associated with the A/R Facility. The loans under the A/R Facility were transferred to Ventures as part of the Reorganization. The A/R Facility was terminated on March 14, 2024. SBG recorded revenue of $1 million during the three months ended March 31, 2024 and $5 million during the three months ended March 31, 2023 within the local media segment and other related to certain other transactions between DSIH and SBG. Employees Jason Smith, an employee of SBG, is the son of Frederick Smith, who is a Vice President of SBG and a member of SBG's Board of Managers. Jason Smith received total compensation of $0.2 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, consisting of salary and bonus, and was granted 37,566 shares of restricted stock, vesting over two years, and 500,000 stock appreciation rights, vesting over two years, during the three months ended March 31, 2024. Ethan White, an employee of SBG, is the son-in-law of J. Duncan Smith, who is a Vice President of SBG and member of SBG's Board of Managers. Ethan White received total compensation of $0.1 million, consisting of salary, and less than $0.1 million, consisting of salary and bonus, for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, and was granted 1,503 and 1,252 shares of restricted stock, vesting over two years, during the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Amberly Thompson, an employee of SBG, is the daughter of Donald Thompson, who is an Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer of SBG. Amberly Thompson received total compensation of less than $0.1 million, consisting of salary, and $0.1 million, consisting of salary and bonus, for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Edward Kim, an employee of SBG, is the brother-in-law of Christopher Ripley, who is the President and Chief Executive Officer of SBG. Edward Kim received total compensation of less than $0.1 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, consisting of salary, and was granted 656 and 516 shares of restricted stock, vesting over two years, during the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Frederick Smith is the brother of David Smith, Executive Chairman of SBG and a member of SBG's Board of Managers; Robert Smith, a member of the SBG's Board of Managers; and J. Duncan Smith. Frederick Smith received total compensation of $0.2 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, consisting of salary and bonus. J. Duncan Smith is the brother of David Smith and Frederick Smith, and Robert Smith. J. Duncan Smith received total compensation of $0.2 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, consisting of salary and bonus. |
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS_2
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS | FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: Accounting guidance provides for valuation techniques, such as the market approach (comparable market prices), the income approach (present value of future income or cash flow), and the cost approach (cost to replace the service capacity of an asset or replacement cost). A fair value hierarchy using three broad levels prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The following is a brief description of those three levels: • Level 1: Observable inputs such as quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. • Level 2: Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. These include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets and quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active. • Level 3: Unobservable inputs that reflect the reporting entity’s own assumptions. The following table sets forth the face value and fair value of our financial assets and liabilities for the periods presented (in millions): As of March 31, 2024 As of December 31, 2023 Face Value Fair Value Face Value Fair Value Level 1: Investments in equity securities N/A $ — N/A $ 6 Money market funds N/A $ 514 N/A $ 588 Deferred compensation assets N/A $ 47 N/A $ 45 Deferred compensation liabilities N/A $ 46 N/A $ 44 Level 2: Investments in equity securities (a) N/A $ 110 N/A $ 110 Interest rate swap (b) N/A $ 7 N/A $ 1 STG (c): 5.500% Senior Notes due 2030 $ 485 $ 349 $ 485 $ 362 5.125% Senior Notes due 2027 $ 274 $ 252 $ 274 $ 248 4.125% Senior Secured Notes due 2030 $ 737 $ 536 $ 737 $ 521 Term Loan B-2, due September 30, 2026 $ 1,185 $ 1,125 $ 1,215 $ 1,124 Term Loan B-3, due April 1, 2028 $ 720 $ 569 $ 722 $ 595 Term Loan B-4, due April 21, 2029 $ 737 $ 575 $ 739 $ 602 Debt of variable interest entities (c) $ 7 $ 7 $ 7 $ 7 Debt of non-media subsidiaries (c) $ 15 $ 15 $ 15 $ 15 Level 3: Investments in equity securities (d) N/A $ 45 N/A $ 46 N/A - Not applicable (a) Consists of warrants to acquire marketable common equity securities. The fair value of the warrants are derived from the quoted trading prices of the underlying common equity securities less the exercise price. (b) We entered into an interest rate swap effective February 7, 2023 and terminating on February 28, 2026 in order to manage a portion of our exposure to variable interest rates. The swap agreement has a notional amount of $600 million, bears a fixed interest rate of 3.9%, and we receive a floating rate of interest based on SOFR. T he fair value of the interest rate swap was an asset as of March 31, 2024. See Hedge Accounting within Note 1. Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Interest Rate Swap within Note 3. Notes Payable, Finance Leases, and Commercial Bank Financing. (c) Amounts are carried in our consolidated balance sheets net of debt discount, premium, and deferred financing cost, which are excluded in the above table, of $43 million and $46 million as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. (d) On November 18, 2020, we entered into a commercial agreement with Bally's and received warrants and options to acquire common equity in the business. During the three months ended March 31, 2024 we recorded a fair value adjustment loss of $1 million. The fair value of the warrants is primarily derived from the quoted trading prices of the underlying common equity. The fair value of the options is derived utilizing the Black Scholes valuation model. The most significant inputs include the trading price of the underlying common stock and the exercise price of the options, which range from $30 to $45 per share. The following table summarizes the changes in financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis and categorized as Level 3 under the fair value hierarchy for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 (in millions): Options and Warrants Three Months Ended March 31, 2024 Fair value at December 31, 2023 $ 46 Measurement adjustments (1) Fair value at March 31, 2024 $ 45 Options and Warrants Three Months Ended March 31, 2023 Fair value at December 31, 2022 $ 75 Measurement adjustments — Fair value at March 31, 2023 $ 75 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS | FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: Accounting guidance provides for valuation techniques, such as the market approach (comparable market prices), the income approach (present value of future income or cash flow), and the cost approach (cost to replace the service capacity of an asset or replacement cost). A fair value hierarchy using three broad levels prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The following is a brief description of those three levels: • Level 1: Observable inputs such as quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. • Level 2: Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. These include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets and quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active. • Level 3: Unobservable inputs that reflect the reporting entity's own assumptions. The following table sets forth the face value and fair value of SBG's financial assets and liabilities for the periods presented (in millions): As of March 31, 2024 As of December 31, 2023 Face Value Fair Value Face Value Fair Value Level 1: Money market funds N/A $ 278 N/A $ 309 Level 2: Interest rate swap (a) N/A $ 7 N/A $ 1 STG (b): 5.500% Senior Notes due 2030 $ 485 $ 349 $ 485 $ 362 5.125% Senior Notes due 2027 $ 274 $ 252 $ 274 $ 248 4.125% Senior Secured Notes due 2030 $ 737 $ 536 $ 737 $ 521 Term Loan B-2, due September 30, 2026 $ 1,185 $ 1,125 $ 1,215 $ 1,124 Term Loan B-3, due April 1, 2028 $ 720 $ 569 $ 722 $ 595 Term Loan B-4, due April 21, 2029 $ 737 $ 575 $ 739 $ 602 Debt of variable interest entities (b) $ 7 $ 7 $ 7 $ 7 N/A - Not applicable (a) SBG entered into an interest rate swap effective February 7, 2023 and terminating on February 28, 2026 in order to manage a portion of SBG's exposure to variable interest rates. The swap agreement has a notional amount of $600 million , bears a fixed interest rate of 3.9%, and SBG receives a floating rate of interest based on SOFR. T he fair value of the interest rate swap was an asset as of March 31, 2024. See Hedge Accounting within Note 1. Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Interest Rate Swap within Note 3. Notes Payable, Finance Leases, and Commercial Bank Financing. (b) Amounts are carried in SBG's consolidated balance sheets net of debt discount, premium, and deferred financing cost, which are excluded in the above table, of $43 million and $46 million as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. |
Pay vs Performance Disclosure
Pay vs Performance Disclosure - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | |
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | |
Pay vs Performance Disclosure | ||
Net Income (Loss) | $ 23 | $ 185 |
Insider Trading Arrangements
Insider Trading Arrangements | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Trading Arrangements, by Individual | |
Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Adopted | false |
Non-Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Adopted | false |
Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Terminated | false |
Non-Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Terminated | false |
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMM_3
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Policies) | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Segment data | |
Nature of Operations | Nature of Operations Sinclair, Inc. ("Sinclair") is a diversified media company with national reach and a strong focus on providing high-quality content on our local television stations and digital platforms. The content, distributed through our broadcast platform and third-party platforms, consists of programming provided by third-party networks and syndicators, local news, other original programming produced by us and our owned networks and professional sports. Additionally, we own digital media companies that are complementary to our extensive portfolio of television station related digital properties and we have interests in, own, manage, and/or operate technical and software services companies, research and development companies for the advancement of broadcast technology, and other media and non-media related businesses and assets, including real estate, venture capital, private equity, and direct investments. |
Principles of Consolidation and Interim Financial Statements | Principles of Consolidation The consolidated financial statements include our accounts and those of our wholly-owned and majority-owned subsidiaries, and VIEs for which we are the primary beneficiary. Noncontrolling interests represent a minority owner's proportionate share of the equity in certain of our consolidated entities. Noncontrolling interests which may be redeemed by the holder, and the redemption is outside of our control, are presented as redeemable noncontrolling interests. All intercompany transactions and account balances have been eliminated in consolidation. We consolidate VIEs when we are the primary beneficiary. We are the primary beneficiary of a VIE when we have the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the economic performance of the VIE and have the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive returns that would be significant to the VIE. See Note 8. Variable Interest Entities for more information on our VIEs. Investments in entities over which we have significant influence but not control are accounted for using the equity method of accounting. Income from equity method investments represents our proportionate share of net income generated by equity method investees. Interim Financial Statements The consolidated financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 are unaudited. In the opinion of management, such financial statements have been presented on the same basis as the audited consolidated financial statements and include all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments necessary for a fair statement of the consolidated balance sheets, consolidated statements of operations, consolidated statements of comprehensive income, consolidated statements of equity and redeemable noncontrolling interests, and consolidated statements of cash flows for these periods as adjusted for the adoption of recent accounting pronouncements. As permitted under the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), the consolidated financial statements do not include all disclosures normally included with audited consolidated financial statements and, accordingly, should be read together with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 filed with the SEC. The consolidated statements of operations presented in the accompanying consolidated financial statements are not necessarily representative of operations for an entire year. |
Use of Estimates | Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses in the consolidated financial statements and in the disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. Actual results could differ from those estimates. |
Recent Accounting Pronouncements | Recent Accounting Pronouncements In October 2021, the FASB issued guidance to improve the accounting for acquired revenue contracts with customers in a business combination by addressing diversity in practice. ASU 2021-08 requires that an acquiring entity recognize and measure contract assets and contract liabilities acquired in a business combination in accordance with Topic 606, as if it had originated the contracts. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2022, including interim periods within those fiscal years. We adopted this guidance during the first quarter of 2023. The impact of the adoption did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. In November 2023, the FASB issued guidance to improve reportable segment disclosure requirements, primarily through enhanced disclosures about significant segment expenses. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, applied retrospectively. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of this guidance. In December 2023, the FASB issued guidance to enhance the transparency and decision usefulness of income tax disclosures, requiring annual disclosure of consistent categories and greater disaggregation of information in the rate reconciliation table; additional information for reconciling items that meet a quantitative threshold (if the effect of those reconciling items is equal to or greater than 5 percent of the amount computed by multiplying pretax income or loss by the applicable statutory income tax rate); income taxes paid disaggregated by jurisdiction; and income or loss before income tax disaggregated between foreign and domestic. The guidance is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024, applied prospectively. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of this guidance. |
Broadcast Television Programming | Broadcast Television Programming We have agreements with programming syndicators for the rights to television programming over contract periods, which generally run from one The rights to this programming are reflected in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets at the lower of unamortized cost or fair value. Program contract costs are amortized on a straight-line basis except for contracts greater than three years which are amortized utilizing an accelerated method. Program contract costs estimated by management to be amortized in the succeeding year are classified as current assets. Payments of program contract liabilities are typically made on a scheduled basis and are not affected by amortization or fair value adjustments. Fair value is determined utilizing a discounted cash flow model based on management's expectation of future advertising revenues, net of sales commissions, to be generated by the program material. We assess our program contract costs on a quarterly basis to ensure the costs are recorded at the lower of unamortized cost or fair value. |
Hedge Accounting | We have determined that the interest rate swap meets the criteria for hedge accounting. The initial value of the interest rate swap and any changes in value in subsequent periods is included in accumulated other comprehensive income, with a corresponding change recorded in assets or liabilities depending on the position of the swap. Gains or losses on the monthly settlement of the interest rate swap are reflected in i |
Revenue Recognition | Distribution Revenue. We have agreements with multi-channel video programming distributors ("MVPD") and virtual MVPDs ("vMVPD," and together with MVPDs, "Distributors"). We generate distribution revenue through fees received from these Distributors for the right to distribute our stations and other properties. Distribution arrangements are generally governed by multi-year contracts and the underlying fees are based upon a contractual monthly rate per subscriber. These arrangements represent licenses of intellectual property; revenue is recognized as the signal or network programming is provided to our customers (as usage occurs) which corresponds with the satisfaction of our performance obligation. Revenue is calculated based upon the contractual rate multiplied by an estimated number of subscribers. Our customers will remit payments based upon actual subscribers a short time after the conclusion of a month, which generally does not exceed 120 days. Historical adjustments to subscriber estimates have not been material. Core Advertising Revenue. We generate advertising revenue primarily from the sale of advertising spots/impressions within our broadcast television and digital platforms. Political Advertising Revenue. We generate political advertising revenue primarily from the sale of political advertising spots/impressions within our broadcast television and digital platforms. In accordance with ASC 606, we do not disclose the value of unsatisfied performance obligations for (i) contracts with an original expected length of one year or less and (ii) distribution arrangements which are accounted for as a sales/usage based royalty. Deferred Revenue. |
Income Taxes | Income Taxes Our income tax provision for all periods consists of federal and state income taxes. The tax provision for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 is based on the estimated effective tax rate applicable for the full year after taking into account discrete tax items and the effects of the noncontrolling interests. We provide a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets if we determine that it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. In evaluating our ability to realize net deferred tax assets, we consider all available evidence, both positive and negative, including our past operating results, tax planning strategies, current and cumulative losses, and forecasts of future taxable income. In considering these sources of taxable income, we must make certain judgments that are based on the plans and estimates used to manage our underlying businesses on a long-term basis. A valuation allowance has been provided for deferred tax assets related to a substantial amount of our available state net operating loss carryforwards based on past operating results, expected timing of the reversals of existing temporary basis differences, alternative tax strategies, and projected future taxable income. Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2024 was greater than the statutory rate primarily due to an immaterial $7.5 million correcting adjustment related to the accrual of interest income attributable to prior years’ pending income tax refund claims. Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2023, was greater than the statutory rate primarily due to a release of valuation allowance on deferred tax assets relating to deductibility of interest expense under the IRC Section 163(j) as a result of the change in the tax classification of the legal entity owning the Diamond Sports business because of the exit of the sole minority investor. We do not believe that our liability for unrecognized tax benefits would be materially impacted, in the next twelve months, as a result of the expected statute of limitations expirations, the application of limits under available state administrative practice exceptions, and the resolution of examination issues and settlements with federal and certain state tax authorities. |
Reclassifications | Reclassifications Certain reclassifications have been made to prior years' consolidated financial statements to conform to the current year's presentation. |
Variable Interest Entities | Certain of our stations provide services to other station owners within the same respective market through agreements, such as LMAs, where we provide programming, sales, operational, and administrative services, and JSAs and SSAs, where we provide non-programming, sales, operational, and administrative services. In certain cases, we have also entered into purchase agreements or options to purchase the license related assets of the licensee. We typically own the majority of the non-license assets of the stations, and in some cases where the licensee acquired the license assets concurrent with our acquisition of the non-license assets of the station, we have provided guarantees to the bank for the licensee's acquisition financing. The terms of the agreements vary, but generally have initial terms of over five years with several optional renewal terms. Based on the terms of the agreements and the significance of our investment in the stations, we are the primary beneficiary when, subject to the ultimate control of the licensees, we have the power to direct the activities which significantly impact the economic performance of the VIE through the services we provide and we absorb losses and returns that would be considered significant to the VIEs. The fees paid between us and the licensees pursuant to these arrangements are eliminated in consolidation. Other VIEs We have several investments in entities which are considered VIEs. However, we do not participate in the management of these entities, including the day-to-day operating decisions or other decisions which would allow us to control the entity, and therefore, we are not considered the primary beneficiary of these VIEs. |
Fair Value Measurements | Accounting guidance provides for valuation techniques, such as the market approach (comparable market prices), the income approach (present value of future income or cash flow), and the cost approach (cost to replace the service capacity of an asset or replacement cost). A fair value hierarchy using three broad levels prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The following is a brief description of those three levels: • Level 1: Observable inputs such as quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. • Level 2: Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. These include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets and quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active. • Level 3: Unobservable inputs that reflect the reporting entity’s own assumptions. |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |
Segment data | |
Nature of Operations | Nature of Operations Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC ("SBG"), a Maryland limited liability company and a wholly owned subsidiary of Sinclair, Inc. ("Sinclair"), is a diversified media company with national reach and a strong focus on providing high-quality content on SBG's local television stations and digital properties. The content, distributed through SBG's broadcast platform and third-party platforms, consists of programming provided by third-party networks and syndicators, local news, other original programming produced by SBG and SBG owned networks. Additionally, prior to the Reorganization (as defined below in Company Reorganization ) , SBG had interests in, owned, managed, and/or operated Tennis Channel, digital media companies, technical and software services companies, research and development companies for the advancement of broadcast technology, and other media and non-media related businesses and assets, including real estate, venture capital, private equity, and direct investments. |
Principles of Consolidation and Interim Financial Statements | Principles of Consolidation The consolidated financial statements include SBG's accounts and those of SBG's wholly-owned and majority-owned subsidiaries, and VIEs for which SBG is the primary beneficiary. Noncontrolling interests represent a minority owner’s proportionate share of the equity in certain of SBG's consolidated entities. Noncontrolling interests which may be redeemed by the holder, and the redemption is outside of SBG's control, are presented as redeemable noncontrolling interests. All intercompany transactions and account balances have been eliminated in consolidation. SBG consolidates VIEs when SBG is the primary beneficiary. SBG is the primary beneficiary of a VIE when SBG has the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the economic performance of the VIE and has the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive returns that would be significant to the VIE. See Note 7. Variable Interest Entities for more information on SBG's VIEs. Investments in entities over which SBG has significant influence but not control are accounted for using the equity method of accounting. Income from equity method investments represents SBG's proportionate share of net income generated by equity method investees. Interim Financial Statements SBG's consolidated financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 are unaudited. In the opinion of management, such financial statements have been presented on the same basis as the audited consolidated financial statements and include all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments necessary for a fair statement of the consolidated balance sheets, consolidated statements of operations, consolidated statements of comprehensive income, consolidated statements of equity and redeemable noncontrolling interests, and consolidated statements of cash flows for these periods as adjusted for the adoption of recent accounting pronouncements. As permitted under the applicable rules and regulations of the SEC, SBG's consolidated financial statements do not include all disclosures normally included with audited consolidated financial statements and, accordingly, should be read together with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto in Sinclair's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 filed with the SEC. SBG's consolidated statements of operations presented in the accompanying consolidated financial statements are not necessarily representative of operations for an entire year. |
Use of Estimates | Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses in the consolidated financial statements and in the disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. Actual results could differ from those estimates. |
Recent Accounting Pronouncements | Recent Accounting Pronouncements In October 2021, the FASB issued guidance to improve the accounting for acquired revenue contracts with customers in a business combination by addressing diversity in practice. ASU 2021-08 requires that an acquiring entity recognize and measure contract assets and contract liabilities acquired in a business combination in accordance with Topic 606, as if it had originated the contracts. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2022, including interim periods within those fiscal years. SBG adopted this guidance during the first quarter of 2023. The impact of the adoption did not have a material impact on SBG's consolidated financial statements. In November 2023, the FASB issued guidance to improve reportable segment disclosure requirements, primarily through enhanced disclosures about significant segment expenses. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, applied retrospectively. Early adoption is permitted. SBG is currently evaluating the impact of this guidance. In December 2023, the FASB issued guidance to enhance the transparency and decision usefulness of income tax disclosures, requiring annual disclosure of consistent categories and greater disaggregation of information in the rate reconciliation table; additional information for reconciling items that meet a quantitative threshold (if the effect of those reconciling items is equal to or greater than 5 percent of the amount computed by multiplying pretax income or loss by the applicable statutory income tax rate); income taxes paid disaggregated by jurisdiction; and income or loss before income tax disaggregated between foreign and domestic. The guidance is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024, applied prospectively. Early adoption is permitted. SBG is currently evaluating the impact of this guidance. |
Broadcast Television Programming | Broadcast Television Programming SBG has agreements with programming syndicators for the rights to television programming over contract periods, which generally run from one The rights to this programming are reflected in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets at the lower of unamortized cost or fair value. Program contract costs are amortized on a straight-line basis except for contracts greater than three years which are amortized utilizing an accelerated method. Program contract costs estimated by management to be amortized in the succeeding year are classified as current assets. Payments of program contract liabilities are typically made on a scheduled basis and are not affected by amortization or fair value adjustments. Fair value is determined utilizing a discounted cash flow model based on management's expectation of future advertising revenues, net of sales commissions, to be generated by the program material. SBG assesses the program contract costs on a quarterly basis to ensure the costs are recorded at the lower of unamortized cost or fair value. |
Hedge Accounting | SBG has determined that the interest rate swap meets the criteria for hedge accounting. The initial value of the interest rate swap and any changes in value in subsequent periods is included in accumulated other comprehensive income, with a corresponding change recorded in assets or liabilities depending on the position of the swap. Gains or losses on the monthly settlement of the interest rate swap are reflected in i |
Revenue Recognition | Distribution Revenue. SBG has agreements with multi-channel video programming distributors ("MVPD") and virtual MVPDs ("vMVPD," and together with MVPDs, "Distributors"). SBG generates distribution revenue through fees received from these Distributors for the right to distribute SBG's stations and other properties. Distribution arrangements are generally governed by multi-year contracts and the underlying fees are based upon a contractual monthly rate per subscriber. These arrangements represent licenses of intellectual property; revenue is recognized as the signal or network programming is provided to SBG's customers (as usage occurs) which corresponds with the satisfaction of SBG's performance obligation. Revenue is calculated based upon the contractual rate multiplied by an estimated number of subscribers. SBG's customers will remit payments based upon actual subscribers a short time after the conclusion of a month, which generally does not exceed 120 days. Historical adjustments to subscriber estimates have not been material. Core Advertising Revenue. SBG generates advertising revenue primarily from the sale of advertising spots/impressions within broadcast television and digital platforms. Political Advertising Revenue. SBG generates political advertising revenue primarily from the sale of political advertising spots/impressions within broadcast television and digital platforms. In accordance with ASC 606, SBG does not disclose the value of unsatisfied performance obligations for (i) contracts with an original expected length of one year or less and (ii) distribution arrangements which are accounted for as a sales/usage based royalty. Deferred Revenue. |
Income Taxes | Income Taxes SBG’s income tax provision for all periods consists of federal and state income taxes. The tax provision for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 is based on the estimated effective tax rate applicable for the full year after taking into account discrete tax items and the effects of the noncontrolling interests. SBG provides a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets if it is determined that it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. In evaluating SBG’s ability to realize net deferred tax assets, SBG considers all available evidence, both positive and negative, including past operating results, tax planning strategies, current and cumulative losses, and forecasts of future taxable income. In considering these sources of taxable income, SBG must make certain judgments that are based on the plans and estimates used to manage SBG’s underlying businesses on a long-term basis. A valuation allowance has been provided for deferred tax assets related to a substantial amount of SBG’s available state net operating loss carryforwards based on past operating results, expected timing of the reversals of existing temporary basis differences, alternative tax strategies, and projected future taxable income. SBG’s effective income tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2024 was greater than the statutory rate primarily due to an immaterial $7.5 million correcting adjustment related to the accrual of interest income attributable to prior years’ pending income tax refund claims. SBG’s effective income tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2023, was greater than the statutory rate primarily due to a release of valuation allowance on deferred tax assets relating to deductibility of interest expense under the IRC Section 163(j) as a result of the change in the tax classification of the legal entity owning the Diamond Sports business because of the exit of the sole minority investor. SBG does not believe that our liability for unrecognized tax benefits would be materially impacted, in the next twelve months, as a result of the expected statute of limitations expirations, the application of limits under available state administrative practice exceptions, and the resolution of examination issues and settlements with federal and certain state tax authorities. |
Reclassifications | Reclassifications Certain reclassifications have been made to prior years' consolidated financial statements to conform to the current year's presentation. |
Variable Interest Entities | Certain of SBG's stations provide services to other station owners within the same respective market through agreements, such as LMAs, where SBG provides programming, sales, operational, and administrative services, and JSAs and SSAs, where SBG provides non-programming, sales, operational, and administrative services. In certain cases, SBG has also entered into purchase agreements or options to purchase the license related assets of the licensee. SBG typically owns the majority of the non-license assets of the stations, and in some cases where the licensee acquired the license assets concurrent with SBG's acquisition of the non-license assets of the station, SBG has provided guarantees to the bank for the licensee's acquisition financing. The terms of the agreements vary, but generally have initial terms of over five years with several optional renewal terms. Based on the terms of the agreements and the significance of SBG's investment in the stations, SBG is the primary beneficiary when, subject to the ultimate control of the licensees, SBG has the power to direct the activities which significantly impact the economic performance of the VIE through the services SBG provides and SBG absorbs losses and returns that would be considered significant to the VIEs. The fees paid between SBG and the licensees pursuant to these arrangements are eliminated in consolidation. Other VIEs |
Fair Value Measurements | Accounting guidance provides for valuation techniques, such as the market approach (comparable market prices), the income approach (present value of future income or cash flow), and the cost approach (cost to replace the service capacity of an asset or replacement cost). A fair value hierarchy using three broad levels prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The following is a brief description of those three levels: • Level 1: Observable inputs such as quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. • Level 2: Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. These include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets and quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active. • Level 3: Unobservable inputs that reflect the reporting entity's own assumptions. |
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMM_4
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Tables) | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Disaggregation of Revenue | The following table presents our revenue disaggregated by type and segment (in millions): For the three months ended March 31, 2024 Local Media Tennis Other Eliminations Total Distribution revenue $ 384 $ 52 $ — $ — $ 436 Core advertising revenue 284 10 6 (3) 297 Political advertising revenue 24 — — — 24 Other media, non-media, and intercompany revenues 35 1 9 (4) 41 Total revenues $ 727 $ 63 $ 15 $ (7) $ 798 For the three months ended March 31, 2023 Local Media Tennis Other Eliminations Total Distribution revenue $ 381 $ 45 $ — $ — $ 426 Core advertising revenue 293 9 6 (2) 306 Political advertising revenue 3 — — — 3 Other media, non-media, and intercompany revenues 28 1 11 (2) 38 Total revenues $ 705 $ 55 $ 17 $ (4) $ 773 |
OTHER ASSETS (Tables)
OTHER ASSETS (Tables) | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Other Assets | Other assets as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 consisted of the following (in millions): As of March 31, As of December 31, Equity method investments $ 113 $ 128 Other investments 368 387 Income tax receivable 140 131 Post-retirement plan assets 47 45 Other 57 51 Total other assets $ 725 $ 742 |
EARNINGS PER SHARE (Tables)
EARNINGS PER SHARE (Tables) | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Earnings Per Share [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Reconciliation of Income (Numerator) and Shares (Denominator) Used in Computation of Diluted Earnings Per Share | The following table reconciles income (numerator) and shares (denominator) used in our computations of basic and diluted earnings per share for the periods presented (in millions, except share amounts which are reflected in thousands): Three Months Ended 2024 2023 Income (Numerator) Net income $ 25 $ 193 Net loss attributable to the redeemable noncontrolling interests — 4 Net income attributable to the noncontrolling interests (2) (12) Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per common share available to common shareholders $ 23 $ 185 Shares (Denominator) Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding 64,156 69,744 Dilutive effect of stock-settled appreciation rights and outstanding stock options 247 120 Diluted weighted-average common and common equivalent shares outstanding 64,403 69,864 |
Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share | The following table shows the weighted-average stock-settled appreciation rights and outstanding stock options (in thousands) that are excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per common share as the inclusion of such shares would be anti-dilutive: Three Months Ended 2024 2023 Weighted-average stock-settled appreciation rights and outstanding stock options excluded 5,120 3,645 |
SEGMENT DATA (Tables)
SEGMENT DATA (Tables) | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Segment Reporting [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Segment Financial Information | Segment financial information is included in the following tables for the periods presented (in millions): As of March 31, 2024 Local Media Tennis Other & Corporate Eliminations Consolidated Assets $ 4,733 $ 300 $ 1,008 $ (3) $ 6,038 For the three months ended March 31, 2024 Local Media Tennis Other & Corporate Eliminations Consolidated Revenue $ 727 $ 63 $ 15 $ (7) (a) $ 798 Depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived intangibles and other assets 58 5 1 (1) 63 Amortization of program contract costs 19 — — — 19 Corporate general and administrative expenses 41 1 16 — 58 Operating income (loss) 41 20 (19) — 42 Interest expense including amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs 76 — — — 76 Income from equity method investments — (1) 15 — 14 For the three months ended March 31, 2023 Local Media Tennis Other & Corporate Eliminations Consolidated Revenue $ 705 $ 55 $ 17 $ (4) (a) $ 773 Depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived intangibles and other assets 59 5 2 (1) 65 Amortization of program contract costs 22 — — — 22 Corporate general and administrative expenses 32 — 26 — 58 (Gain) loss on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment (1) — 7 — 6 Operating income (loss) 41 18 (38) — 21 Interest expense including amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs 74 — — — 74 Income from equity method investments — — 31 — 31 (a) Includes $2 million and $1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, of revenue for services provided by other to local media, which is eliminated in consolidation. |
VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES (Tab
VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES (Tables) | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Variable Interest Entities | The carrying amounts and classification of the assets and liabilities of the VIEs mentioned above, which have been included in our consolidated balance sheets as of the dates presented, were as follows (in millions): As of March 31, As of December 31, ASSETS Current assets: Accounts receivable, net $ 20 $ 23 Other current assets 2 3 Total current assets 22 26 Property and equipment, net 10 11 Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets 15 15 Definite-lived intangible assets, net 31 33 Total assets $ 78 $ 85 LIABILITIES Current liabilities: Other current liabilities $ 13 $ 14 Notes payable, finance leases and commercial bank financing, less current portion 6 6 Other long-term liabilities 3 3 Total liabilities $ 22 $ 23 |
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Tables
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Tables) | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Carrying Value and Fair Value of Notes and Debentures | The following table sets forth the face value and fair value of our financial assets and liabilities for the periods presented (in millions): As of March 31, 2024 As of December 31, 2023 Face Value Fair Value Face Value Fair Value Level 1: Investments in equity securities N/A $ — N/A $ 6 Money market funds N/A $ 514 N/A $ 588 Deferred compensation assets N/A $ 47 N/A $ 45 Deferred compensation liabilities N/A $ 46 N/A $ 44 Level 2: Investments in equity securities (a) N/A $ 110 N/A $ 110 Interest rate swap (b) N/A $ 7 N/A $ 1 STG (c): 5.500% Senior Notes due 2030 $ 485 $ 349 $ 485 $ 362 5.125% Senior Notes due 2027 $ 274 $ 252 $ 274 $ 248 4.125% Senior Secured Notes due 2030 $ 737 $ 536 $ 737 $ 521 Term Loan B-2, due September 30, 2026 $ 1,185 $ 1,125 $ 1,215 $ 1,124 Term Loan B-3, due April 1, 2028 $ 720 $ 569 $ 722 $ 595 Term Loan B-4, due April 21, 2029 $ 737 $ 575 $ 739 $ 602 Debt of variable interest entities (c) $ 7 $ 7 $ 7 $ 7 Debt of non-media subsidiaries (c) $ 15 $ 15 $ 15 $ 15 Level 3: Investments in equity securities (d) N/A $ 45 N/A $ 46 N/A - Not applicable (a) Consists of warrants to acquire marketable common equity securities. The fair value of the warrants are derived from the quoted trading prices of the underlying common equity securities less the exercise price. (b) We entered into an interest rate swap effective February 7, 2023 and terminating on February 28, 2026 in order to manage a portion of our exposure to variable interest rates. The swap agreement has a notional amount of $600 million, bears a fixed interest rate of 3.9%, and we receive a floating rate of interest based on SOFR. T he fair value of the interest rate swap was an asset as of March 31, 2024. See Hedge Accounting within Note 1. Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Interest Rate Swap within Note 3. Notes Payable, Finance Leases, and Commercial Bank Financing. (c) Amounts are carried in our consolidated balance sheets net of debt discount, premium, and deferred financing cost, which are excluded in the above table, of $43 million and $46 million as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. (d) |
Schedule of Changes in Level 3 Financial Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis | The following table summarizes the changes in financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis and categorized as Level 3 under the fair value hierarchy for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 (in millions): Options and Warrants Three Months Ended March 31, 2024 Fair value at December 31, 2023 $ 46 Measurement adjustments (1) Fair value at March 31, 2024 $ 45 Options and Warrants Three Months Ended March 31, 2023 Fair value at December 31, 2022 $ 75 Measurement adjustments — Fair value at March 31, 2023 $ 75 |
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMM_5
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Tables) | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Segment data | |
Schedule of Disaggregation of Revenue | The following table presents our revenue disaggregated by type and segment (in millions): For the three months ended March 31, 2024 Local Media Tennis Other Eliminations Total Distribution revenue $ 384 $ 52 $ — $ — $ 436 Core advertising revenue 284 10 6 (3) 297 Political advertising revenue 24 — — — 24 Other media, non-media, and intercompany revenues 35 1 9 (4) 41 Total revenues $ 727 $ 63 $ 15 $ (7) $ 798 For the three months ended March 31, 2023 Local Media Tennis Other Eliminations Total Distribution revenue $ 381 $ 45 $ — $ — $ 426 Core advertising revenue 293 9 6 (2) 306 Political advertising revenue 3 — — — 3 Other media, non-media, and intercompany revenues 28 1 11 (2) 38 Total revenues $ 705 $ 55 $ 17 $ (4) $ 773 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |
Segment data | |
Schedule of Disaggregation of Revenue | The following table presents SBG's revenue disaggregated by type and segment (in millions): For the three months ended March 31, 2024 Local Media Distribution revenue $ 384 Core advertising revenue 284 Political advertising revenue 24 Other media and intercompany revenues 35 Total revenues $ 727 For the three months ended March 31, 2023 Local Media Other Eliminations Total Distribution revenue $ 381 $ 45 $ — $ 426 Core advertising revenue 293 15 (2) 306 Political advertising revenue 3 — — 3 Other media, non-media, and intercompany revenues 28 12 (2) 38 Total revenues $ 705 $ 72 $ (4) $ 773 |
OTHER ASSETS (Tables)_2
OTHER ASSETS (Tables) | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | |
Schedule of Other Assets | Other assets as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 consisted of the following (in millions): As of March 31, As of December 31, Equity method investments $ 113 $ 128 Other investments 368 387 Income tax receivable 140 131 Post-retirement plan assets 47 45 Other 57 51 Total other assets $ 725 $ 742 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | |
Schedule of Other Assets | Other assets as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 consisted of the following (in millions): As of March 31, As of December 31, Equity method investments $ 1 $ 1 Other investments 3 — Income tax receivable 140 131 Other 55 52 Total other assets $ 199 $ 184 |
SEGMENT DATA (Tables)_2
SEGMENT DATA (Tables) | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Segment data | |
Schedule of Segment Financial Information | Segment financial information is included in the following tables for the periods presented (in millions): As of March 31, 2024 Local Media Tennis Other & Corporate Eliminations Consolidated Assets $ 4,733 $ 300 $ 1,008 $ (3) $ 6,038 For the three months ended March 31, 2024 Local Media Tennis Other & Corporate Eliminations Consolidated Revenue $ 727 $ 63 $ 15 $ (7) (a) $ 798 Depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived intangibles and other assets 58 5 1 (1) 63 Amortization of program contract costs 19 — — — 19 Corporate general and administrative expenses 41 1 16 — 58 Operating income (loss) 41 20 (19) — 42 Interest expense including amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs 76 — — — 76 Income from equity method investments — (1) 15 — 14 For the three months ended March 31, 2023 Local Media Tennis Other & Corporate Eliminations Consolidated Revenue $ 705 $ 55 $ 17 $ (4) (a) $ 773 Depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived intangibles and other assets 59 5 2 (1) 65 Amortization of program contract costs 22 — — — 22 Corporate general and administrative expenses 32 — 26 — 58 (Gain) loss on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment (1) — 7 — 6 Operating income (loss) 41 18 (38) — 21 Interest expense including amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs 74 — — — 74 Income from equity method investments — — 31 — 31 (a) Includes $2 million and $1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, of revenue for services provided by other to local media, which is eliminated in consolidation. |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |
Segment data | |
Schedule of Segment Financial Information | Segment financial information is included in the following tables for the periods presented (in millions): As of March 31, 2024 Local Media Corporate Consolidated Assets $ 4,752 $ 86 $ 4,838 For the three months ended March 31, 2024 Local Media Revenue $ 727 Depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived intangibles and other assets 58 Amortization of program contract costs 19 Corporate general and administrative expenses 41 Operating income 41 Interest expense including amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs 76 For the three months ended March 31, 2023 Local Media Other & Corporate (a) Eliminations Consolidated Revenue $ 705 $ 72 $ (4) $ 773 Depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived intangibles and other assets 59 7 (1) 65 Amortization of program contract costs 22 — — 22 Corporate general and administrative expenses 32 26 — 58 (Gain) loss on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment (1) 7 — 6 Operating income (loss) 41 (20) — 21 Interest expense including amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs 74 — — 74 Income from equity method investments — 31 — 31 (a) Represents the activity in tennis, non-broadcast digital and internet solutions, technical services, and non-media investments (collectively, other) prior to the Reorganization on June 1, 2023 and the activity in corporate prior and subsequent to the Reorganization. See Company Reorganization within Note 1. Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies. |
VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES (T_2
VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES (Tables) | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] | |
Schedule of Variable Interest Entities | The carrying amounts and classification of the assets and liabilities of the VIEs mentioned above, which have been included in our consolidated balance sheets as of the dates presented, were as follows (in millions): As of March 31, As of December 31, ASSETS Current assets: Accounts receivable, net $ 20 $ 23 Other current assets 2 3 Total current assets 22 26 Property and equipment, net 10 11 Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets 15 15 Definite-lived intangible assets, net 31 33 Total assets $ 78 $ 85 LIABILITIES Current liabilities: Other current liabilities $ 13 $ 14 Notes payable, finance leases and commercial bank financing, less current portion 6 6 Other long-term liabilities 3 3 Total liabilities $ 22 $ 23 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] | |
Schedule of Variable Interest Entities | The carrying amounts and classification of the assets and liabilities of the VIEs mentioned above, which have been included in SBG's consolidated balance sheets as of the dates presented, were as follows (in millions): As of March 31, As of December 31, ASSETS Current assets: Accounts receivable, net $ 20 $ 23 Other current assets 2 3 Total current assets 22 26 Property and equipment, net 10 11 Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets 15 15 Definite-lived intangible assets, net 31 33 Total assets $ 78 $ 85 LIABILITIES Current liabilities: Other current liabilities $ 13 $ 14 Notes payable, finance leases and commercial bank financing, less current portion 6 6 Other long-term liabilities 3 3 Total liabilities $ 22 $ 23 |
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Tabl_2
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Tables) | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |
Schedule of Carrying Value and Fair Value of Notes and Debentures | The following table sets forth the face value and fair value of our financial assets and liabilities for the periods presented (in millions): As of March 31, 2024 As of December 31, 2023 Face Value Fair Value Face Value Fair Value Level 1: Investments in equity securities N/A $ — N/A $ 6 Money market funds N/A $ 514 N/A $ 588 Deferred compensation assets N/A $ 47 N/A $ 45 Deferred compensation liabilities N/A $ 46 N/A $ 44 Level 2: Investments in equity securities (a) N/A $ 110 N/A $ 110 Interest rate swap (b) N/A $ 7 N/A $ 1 STG (c): 5.500% Senior Notes due 2030 $ 485 $ 349 $ 485 $ 362 5.125% Senior Notes due 2027 $ 274 $ 252 $ 274 $ 248 4.125% Senior Secured Notes due 2030 $ 737 $ 536 $ 737 $ 521 Term Loan B-2, due September 30, 2026 $ 1,185 $ 1,125 $ 1,215 $ 1,124 Term Loan B-3, due April 1, 2028 $ 720 $ 569 $ 722 $ 595 Term Loan B-4, due April 21, 2029 $ 737 $ 575 $ 739 $ 602 Debt of variable interest entities (c) $ 7 $ 7 $ 7 $ 7 Debt of non-media subsidiaries (c) $ 15 $ 15 $ 15 $ 15 Level 3: Investments in equity securities (d) N/A $ 45 N/A $ 46 N/A - Not applicable (a) Consists of warrants to acquire marketable common equity securities. The fair value of the warrants are derived from the quoted trading prices of the underlying common equity securities less the exercise price. (b) We entered into an interest rate swap effective February 7, 2023 and terminating on February 28, 2026 in order to manage a portion of our exposure to variable interest rates. The swap agreement has a notional amount of $600 million, bears a fixed interest rate of 3.9%, and we receive a floating rate of interest based on SOFR. T he fair value of the interest rate swap was an asset as of March 31, 2024. See Hedge Accounting within Note 1. Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Interest Rate Swap within Note 3. Notes Payable, Finance Leases, and Commercial Bank Financing. (c) Amounts are carried in our consolidated balance sheets net of debt discount, premium, and deferred financing cost, which are excluded in the above table, of $43 million and $46 million as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. (d) |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |
Schedule of Carrying Value and Fair Value of Notes and Debentures | The following table sets forth the face value and fair value of SBG's financial assets and liabilities for the periods presented (in millions): As of March 31, 2024 As of December 31, 2023 Face Value Fair Value Face Value Fair Value Level 1: Money market funds N/A $ 278 N/A $ 309 Level 2: Interest rate swap (a) N/A $ 7 N/A $ 1 STG (b): 5.500% Senior Notes due 2030 $ 485 $ 349 $ 485 $ 362 5.125% Senior Notes due 2027 $ 274 $ 252 $ 274 $ 248 4.125% Senior Secured Notes due 2030 $ 737 $ 536 $ 737 $ 521 Term Loan B-2, due September 30, 2026 $ 1,185 $ 1,125 $ 1,215 $ 1,124 Term Loan B-3, due April 1, 2028 $ 720 $ 569 $ 722 $ 595 Term Loan B-4, due April 21, 2029 $ 737 $ 575 $ 739 $ 602 Debt of variable interest entities (b) $ 7 $ 7 $ 7 $ 7 N/A - Not applicable (a) SBG entered into an interest rate swap effective February 7, 2023 and terminating on February 28, 2026 in order to manage a portion of SBG's exposure to variable interest rates. The swap agreement has a notional amount of $600 million , bears a fixed interest rate of 3.9%, and SBG receives a floating rate of interest based on SOFR. T he fair value of the interest rate swap was an asset as of March 31, 2024. See Hedge Accounting within Note 1. Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Interest Rate Swap within Note 3. Notes Payable, Finance Leases, and Commercial Bank Financing. (b) Amounts are carried in SBG's consolidated balance sheets net of debt discount, premium, and deferred financing cost, which are excluded in the above table, of $43 million and $46 million as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. |
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMM_6
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Nature of Operations (Details) | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 channel segment station market | |
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] | |
Number of reportable segments | segment | 2 |
Number of television stations owned | station | 185 |
Number of markets | market | 86 |
Number of channels | channel | 639 |
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMM_7
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Company Reorganization (Details) - $ / shares | Mar. 31, 2024 | Dec. 31, 2023 | Jun. 01, 2023 |
Class A Common Stock | |||
Class of Stock [Line Items] | |||
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) | $ 0.01 | $ 0.01 | $ 0.01 |
Conversion of stock, conversion ratio (in shares) | 1 | ||
Class B Common Stock | |||
Class of Stock [Line Items] | |||
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) | $ 0.01 | $ 0.01 | $ 0.01 |
Conversion of stock, conversion ratio (in shares) | 1 |
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMM_8
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Broadcast Television Programming (Details) - Television Programming Contract Rights | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Minimum | |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | |
Television programming contract period | 1 year |
Maximum | |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | |
Television programming contract period | 3 years |
Contract period utilizing accelerated amortization method | 3 years |
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMM_9
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Hedge Accounting (Details) - Interest Rate Swap | Feb. 07, 2023 USD ($) |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Notional amount | $ 600,000,000 |
Fixed interest rate | 3.90% |
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUM_10
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Non-cash Investing and Financing Activities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | |
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | |
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] | ||
Leased assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities | $ 2 | $ 3 |
Leased assets obtained in exchange for new finance lease liabilities | 7 | |
Property and equipment purchases | $ 5 | $ 6 |
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUM_11
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Revenue Recognition, Disaggregation of Revenue (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | |
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | |
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | $ 798 | $ 773 |
Distribution revenue | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 436 | 426 |
Core advertising revenue | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 297 | 306 |
Political advertising revenue | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 24 | 3 |
Other media, non-media, and intercompany revenues | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 41 | 38 |
Operating Segments | Local Media | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 727 | 705 |
Operating Segments | Tennis | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 63 | 55 |
Operating Segments | Other | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 15 | 17 |
Operating Segments | Distribution revenue | Local Media | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 384 | 381 |
Operating Segments | Distribution revenue | Tennis | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 52 | 45 |
Operating Segments | Distribution revenue | Other | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 0 | 0 |
Operating Segments | Core advertising revenue | Local Media | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 284 | 293 |
Operating Segments | Core advertising revenue | Tennis | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 10 | 9 |
Operating Segments | Core advertising revenue | Other | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 6 | 6 |
Operating Segments | Political advertising revenue | Local Media | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 24 | 3 |
Operating Segments | Political advertising revenue | Tennis | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 0 | 0 |
Operating Segments | Political advertising revenue | Other | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 0 | 0 |
Operating Segments | Other media, non-media, and intercompany revenues | Local Media | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 35 | 28 |
Operating Segments | Other media, non-media, and intercompany revenues | Tennis | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 1 | 1 |
Operating Segments | Other media, non-media, and intercompany revenues | Other | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 9 | 11 |
Eliminations | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | (7) | (4) |
Eliminations | Distribution revenue | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 0 | 0 |
Eliminations | Core advertising revenue | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | (3) | (2) |
Eliminations | Political advertising revenue | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 0 | 0 |
Eliminations | Other media, non-media, and intercompany revenues | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | $ (4) | $ (2) |
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUM_12
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Revenue Recognition, Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Deferred revenue | $ 187 | $ 178 | |
Deferred revenue, noncurrent | 119 | $ 124 | |
Deferred revenue, revenue recognized | $ 18 | $ 19 | |
Customer Concentration Risk | Revenue Benchmark | Customer One | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Concentration risk (as a percent) | 11% | 11% | |
Customer Concentration Risk | Revenue Benchmark | Customer Two | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Concentration risk (as a percent) | 11% | 10% | |
Customer Concentration Risk | Accounts Receivable | Customer One | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Concentration risk (as a percent) | 12% | 10% | |
Customer Concentration Risk | Accounts Receivable | Customer Two | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Concentration risk (as a percent) | 11% | 10% | |
Customer Concentration Risk | Accounts Receivable | Customer Three | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Concentration risk (as a percent) | 10% | ||
Customer Concentration Risk | Accounts Receivable | Customer Four | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Concentration risk (as a percent) | 10% |
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUM_13
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Income Taxes (Details) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 USD ($) | |
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] | |
Adjustment related to prior years' pending income tax refund claims | $ 7.5 |
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUM_14
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Subsequent Events (Details) | May 10, 2024 $ / shares |
Subsequent Event | |
Subsequent Event [Line Items] | |
Dividends declared per share (in dollars per share) | $ 0.25 |
OTHER ASSETS - Schedule of Othe
OTHER ASSETS - Schedule of Other Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Mar. 31, 2024 | Dec. 31, 2023 |
Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract] | ||
Equity method investments | $ 113 | $ 128 |
Other investments | 368 | 387 |
Income tax receivable | 140 | 131 |
Post-retirement plan assets | 47 | 45 |
Other | 57 | 51 |
Total other assets | $ 725 | $ 742 |
OTHER ASSETS - Narrative (Detai
OTHER ASSETS - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) | 3 Months Ended | ||||
May 10, 2023 | Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2023 | Mar. 01, 2022 | |
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | |||||
Income (loss) from equity method investments | $ 14,000,000 | $ 31,000,000 | |||
Investments in equity securities measured at fair value | 155,000,000 | $ 162,000,000 | |||
Unrealized gain (loss) on FV-NI and NAV investments | 2,000,000 | (1,000,000) | |||
Equity investments, net of cumulative impairment | 39,000,000 | 36,000,000 | |||
Impairment recorded | 0 | 0 | |||
A/R Facility | Notes Receivable of Diamond Sports Finance SPV, LLC | Related Party | |||||
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | |||||
Cash settlement for related party debt | $ 199,000,000 | ||||
Fair Value Measured at Net Asset Value Per Share | |||||
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | |||||
Investments measured at NAV | 174,000,000 | 189,000,000 | |||
Unfunded commitments related to investments valued using NAV practical expedient | 73,000,000 | $ 74,000,000 | |||
DSIH | |||||
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | |||||
Fair value of equity method investments | 0 | 0 | $ 0 | ||
Income (loss) from equity method investments | $ 0 | $ 0 |
NOTES PAYABLE, FINANCE LEASES_3
NOTES PAYABLE, FINANCE LEASES, AND COMMERCIAL BANK FINANCING (Details) | 3 Months Ended | |||
Mar. 31, 2024 USD ($) | Mar. 31, 2023 USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) | Feb. 07, 2023 USD ($) | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||
Borrowings under revolving credit facility exceed total commitments (as a percent) | 35% | |||
Gain on extinguishment of debt | $ 1,000,000 | $ 0 | ||
Interest Rate Swap | ||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||
Notional amount | $ 600,000,000 | |||
Fixed interest rate | 3.90% | |||
Fair value of interest rate swap | 7,000,000 | $ 1,000,000 | ||
Consolidated VIEs | ||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||
Consolidated total debt | 2,000,000 | 2,000,000 | ||
Guarantee Obligations | ||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||
Unconditional and irrevocably guaranteed debt | 2,000,000 | 2,000,000 | ||
Provide guarantee of certain obligations | $ 117,000,000 | |||
Annual escalations (as a percent) | 4% | |||
Debt term (year) | 5 years | |||
Affiliated Entity | ||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||
Finance lease liabilities, current | $ 2,000,000 | 2,000,000 | ||
Finance lease liabilities, non-current | 11,000,000 | $ 5,000,000 | ||
Term Loan B-2, due September 30, 2026 | Term Loan | ||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||
Debt instrument, repurchased face amount | 27,000,000 | |||
Repayment of term loan | 25,000,000 | |||
Gain on extinguishment of debt | $ 1,000,000 | |||
STG Revolving Credit Facility | ||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||
First lien leverage ratio | 4.5 | |||
Borrowings outstanding | $ 0 |
REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INT_3
REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | |
Feb. 10, 2023 | Mar. 31, 2023 | |
Temporary Equity [Line Items] | ||
Aggregate redemption price | $ 190 | |
Unreturned capital contribution, percentage | 95% | |
Unreturned capital contribution | $ 175 | |
Dividends accrued during the period | $ 3 | |
Redeemable Preferred Stock | ||
Temporary Equity [Line Items] | ||
Redeemed units (in shares) | 175,000 |
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES -
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES - Narrative (Details) $ in Thousands | 1 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||||||||||||
Apr. 30, 2024 USD ($) | Jan. 17, 2024 USD ($) | Dec. 08, 2023 USD ($) | Jul. 19, 2023 USD ($) | Sep. 21, 2022 USD ($) station | Jul. 28, 2021 USD ($) | Oct. 15, 2020 USD ($) | Sep. 02, 2020 USD ($) | Aug. 19, 2020 USD ($) | Jun. 08, 2020 petition | May 22, 2020 USD ($) | Nov. 06, 2018 lawsuit | Dec. 31, 2017 USD ($) | Mar. 31, 2024 USD ($) station | Dec. 31, 2021 USD ($) | Oct. 03, 2018 broadcaster | |
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Number of television stations owned | station | 185 | |||||||||||||||
Unfavorable Regulatory Action | ||||||||||||||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Proposed fine | $ 2,700 | $ 9,000 | $ 13,000 | |||||||||||||
Proposed fine per station | $ 25 | $ 500 | ||||||||||||||
Issuance of forfeiture penalty upheld | $ 500 | |||||||||||||||
Additional legal expenses accrued | $ 8,000 | |||||||||||||||
Number of television stations owned | station | 83 | |||||||||||||||
Loss contingency, damages sought, total | $ 3,400 | |||||||||||||||
Loss contingency accrual | $ 3,400 | |||||||||||||||
Unfavorable Regulatory Action | Minimum | ||||||||||||||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Proposed fine per station | 20 | |||||||||||||||
Unfavorable Regulatory Action | Maximum | ||||||||||||||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Proposed fine per station | $ 26 | |||||||||||||||
Management Services Agreement Misconduct | ||||||||||||||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Cash payments for legal settlements | 50,000 | |||||||||||||||
Loss contingency accrual | $ 445,000 | |||||||||||||||
Loss contingency, allegations, payments received | $ 1,500,000 | |||||||||||||||
Loss contingency, settlement, value of claims released | $ 1,500,000 | |||||||||||||||
Loss contingency, damages awarded | $ 495,000 | |||||||||||||||
Management Services Agreement Misconduct | Subsequent Event | ||||||||||||||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Cash payments for legal settlements | $ 495,000 | |||||||||||||||
Management Services Agreement Misconduct | Sinclair Television Group, Inc. | Subsequent Event | ||||||||||||||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Cash payments for legal settlements | 347,000 | |||||||||||||||
Management Services Agreement Misconduct | Sinclair Ventures, LLC | Subsequent Event | ||||||||||||||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Cash payments for legal settlements | $ 148,000 | |||||||||||||||
Breach of Merger Agreement | ||||||||||||||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Amount awarded to other party | $ 48,000 | |||||||||||||||
Cash payments for legal settlements | $ 48,000 | |||||||||||||||
Compliance plan term | 4 years | |||||||||||||||
Number of petitions filed | petition | 2 | |||||||||||||||
Various Cases Alleging Violation of Sherman Antitrust Act | ||||||||||||||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Amount awarded to other party | $ 48,000 | |||||||||||||||
Loss contingency, new claims filed, number (lawsuit) | lawsuit | 22 | |||||||||||||||
Loss contingency, number of other broadcasters | broadcaster | 13 |
EARNINGS PER SHARE - Schedule o
EARNINGS PER SHARE - Schedule of Earnings per Share (Details) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | |
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | |
Income (Numerator) | ||
Net income | $ 25 | $ 193 |
Net loss attributable to the redeemable noncontrolling interests | 0 | 4 |
Net income attributable to the noncontrolling interests | (2) | (12) |
Net (loss) income attributable to SBG | 23 | 185 |
Numerator for diluted earnings per common share available to common shareholders | $ 23 | $ 185 |
Shares (Denominator) | ||
Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding (in shares) | 64,156 | 69,744 |
Dilutive effect of stock-settled appreciation rights and outstanding stock options (in shares) | 247 | 120 |
Diluted weighted-average common and common equivalent shares outstanding (in shares) | 64,403 | 69,864 |
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation | ||
Weighted-average stock-settled appreciation rights and outstanding stock options excluded (in shares) | 5,120 | 3,645 |
SEGMENT DATA - Narrative (Detai
SEGMENT DATA - Narrative (Details) | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 segment | |
Segment Reporting [Abstract] | |
Number of reportable segments | 2 |
SEGMENT DATA - Segment Financia
SEGMENT DATA - Segment Financial Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | |||
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2023 | ||
Segment data | ||||
Assets | [1] | $ 6,038 | $ 6,085 | |
Revenue | 798 | $ 773 | ||
Depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived intangibles and other assets | 63 | 65 | ||
Amortization of program contract costs | 19 | 22 | ||
Corporate general and administrative expenses | 58 | 58 | ||
(Gain) loss on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment | 0 | 6 | ||
Operating income (loss) | 42 | 21 | ||
Interest expense including amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs | 76 | 74 | ||
Income from equity method investments | 14 | 31 | ||
Operating Segments | Local Media | ||||
Segment data | ||||
Assets | 4,733 | |||
Revenue | 727 | 705 | ||
Depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived intangibles and other assets | 58 | 59 | ||
Amortization of program contract costs | 19 | 22 | ||
Corporate general and administrative expenses | 41 | 32 | ||
(Gain) loss on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment | (1) | |||
Operating income (loss) | 41 | 41 | ||
Interest expense including amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs | 76 | 74 | ||
Income from equity method investments | 0 | 0 | ||
Operating Segments | Tennis | ||||
Segment data | ||||
Assets | 300 | |||
Revenue | 63 | 55 | ||
Depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived intangibles and other assets | 5 | 5 | ||
Amortization of program contract costs | 0 | 0 | ||
Corporate general and administrative expenses | 1 | 0 | ||
(Gain) loss on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment | 0 | |||
Operating income (loss) | 20 | 18 | ||
Interest expense including amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs | 0 | 0 | ||
Income from equity method investments | (1) | 0 | ||
Other & Corporate | ||||
Segment data | ||||
Assets | 1,008 | |||
Revenue | 15 | 17 | ||
Depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived intangibles and other assets | 1 | 2 | ||
Amortization of program contract costs | 0 | 0 | ||
Corporate general and administrative expenses | 16 | 26 | ||
(Gain) loss on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment | 7 | |||
Operating income (loss) | (19) | (38) | ||
Interest expense including amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs | 0 | 0 | ||
Income from equity method investments | 15 | 31 | ||
Intersegment revenues | 2 | 1 | ||
Eliminations | ||||
Segment data | ||||
Assets | (3) | |||
Revenue | (7) | (4) | ||
Depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived intangibles and other assets | (1) | (1) | ||
Amortization of program contract costs | 0 | 0 | ||
Corporate general and administrative expenses | 0 | 0 | ||
(Gain) loss on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment | 0 | |||
Operating income (loss) | 0 | 0 | ||
Interest expense including amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs | 0 | 0 | ||
Income from equity method investments | $ 0 | $ 0 | ||
[1]Our consolidated total assets as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 include total assets of variable interest entities ("VIE") of $78 million and $85 million, respectively, which can only be used to settle the obligations of the VIEs. Our consolidated total liabilities as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 include total liabilities of VIEs of $16 million and $17 million, respectively, for which the creditors of the VIEs have no recourse to us. See Note 8. Variable Interest Entities |
VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES - Na
VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | |||
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2023 | ||
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] | ||||
Assets | [1] | $ 6,038 | $ 6,085 | |
Equity method investments | $ 113 | 128 | ||
Consolidated VIEs | ||||
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] | ||||
Variable interest entities outsourcing agreement initial term | 5 years | |||
Assets | $ 78 | 85 | ||
Consolidated VIEs | Eliminations | ||||
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] | ||||
Liabilities associated with the certain outsourcing agreements and purchase options | 130 | 130 | ||
Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary | ||||
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] | ||||
Assets | 171 | $ 192 | ||
Loss (gain) from equity method investments | 1 | $ (35) | ||
Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary | DSIH | ||||
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] | ||||
Equity method investments | $ 0 | |||
[1]Our consolidated total assets as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 include total assets of variable interest entities ("VIE") of $78 million and $85 million, respectively, which can only be used to settle the obligations of the VIEs. Our consolidated total liabilities as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 include total liabilities of VIEs of $16 million and $17 million, respectively, for which the creditors of the VIEs have no recourse to us. See Note 8. Variable Interest Entities |
VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES - Sc
VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES - Schedule of Variable Interest Entities Assets and Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Mar. 31, 2024 | Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Current assets: | |||
Accounts receivable, net | $ 642 | $ 616 | |
Other current assets | 177 | 189 | |
Total current assets | 1,481 | 1,475 | |
Property and equipment, net | 720 | 715 | |
Total assets | [1] | 6,038 | 6,085 |
Current liabilities: | |||
Other current liabilities | 70 | 57 | |
Long-term liabilities: | |||
Notes payable, finance leases, and commercial bank financing, less current portion | 4,112 | 4,139 | |
Other long-term liabilities | 200 | 204 | |
Total liabilities | [1] | 5,769 | 5,864 |
Consolidated VIEs | |||
Current assets: | |||
Accounts receivable, net | 20 | 23 | |
Other current assets | 2 | 3 | |
Total current assets | 22 | 26 | |
Property and equipment, net | 10 | 11 | |
Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets | 15 | 15 | |
Definite-lived intangible assets, net | 31 | 33 | |
Total assets | 78 | 85 | |
Current liabilities: | |||
Other current liabilities | 13 | 14 | |
Long-term liabilities: | |||
Notes payable, finance leases, and commercial bank financing, less current portion | 6 | 6 | |
Other long-term liabilities | 3 | 3 | |
Total liabilities | $ 22 | $ 23 | |
[1]Our consolidated total assets as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 include total assets of variable interest entities ("VIE") of $78 million and $85 million, respectively, which can only be used to settle the obligations of the VIEs. Our consolidated total liabilities as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 include total liabilities of VIEs of $16 million and $17 million, respectively, for which the creditors of the VIEs have no recourse to us. See Note 8. Variable Interest Entities |
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS - T
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS - Transactions With Our Controlling Shareholders (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | |
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | |
Related Party | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Lease payments | $ 2 | $ 2 |
Charter Aircraft | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Amounts of transaction | $ 0.1 |
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS - C
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS - Cunningham Broadcasting Corporation (Details) $ in Millions | 1 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||
Aug. 31, 2016 USD ($) | Apr. 30, 2016 USD ($) | Mar. 31, 2024 USD ($) renewal | Mar. 31, 2023 USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) | |
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||||
Total revenues | $ 798 | $ 773 | |||
Cunningham | |||||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||||
Right to acquire capital stock | 100% | ||||
Remaining purchase price | $ 54 | $ 54 | |||
Purchase options, broadcast stations | 0.2 | ||||
Cunningham | Related Party | |||||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||||
Total revenues | $ 34 | 36 | |||
Share service agreement, annual service consideration increasing rate ( as a percent) | 3% | ||||
Cunningham | LMA | |||||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||||
Number of additional renewal terms | renewal | 1 | ||||
Agreement renewal period | 5 years | ||||
Percentage of net broadcast revenue used to determine annual LMA fees required to be paid | 3% | ||||
Amount used to determine annual LMA fees required to be paid | $ 6 | ||||
Annual increase in aggregate purchase price | 6% | ||||
Amounts of transaction | $ 66 | $ 65 | |||
Amount paid | $ 3 | 3 | |||
Cunningham | Renewal Term | |||||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||||
Agreement renewal period | 8 years | ||||
Cunningham | Initial Fee | |||||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||||
Amounts of transaction | $ 1 | ||||
Cunningham | Annual Master Control And Maintenance Fee | |||||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||||
Amounts of transaction | $ 0.3 | ||||
Cunningham | Annual Fee | |||||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||||
Amounts of transaction | $ 0.6 | ||||
Cunningham | Multi-Cast Agreements | |||||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||||
Amount paid | $ 0.5 | $ 0.5 |
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS - L
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS - Leased Property by Real Estate Ventures (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | |
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | |
Lease Services | Related Party | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Amount received | $ 0.4 | $ 0.4 |
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS - D
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS - Diamond Sports Intermediate Holdings LLC (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | |
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | |
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Revenue | $ 798 | $ 773 |
DSIH | Related Party | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Revenue | 4 | 5 |
Management Services Agreement with Diamond Sports Group | Local Media | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Revenue | $ 13 | 9 |
Notes Receivable of Diamond Sports Finance SPV, LLC | Related Party | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Proceeds from collection of notes receivable | $ 3 |
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS - E
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS - Employees (Details) - Related Party - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | |
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | |
Employee | Jason Smith | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Total compensation (less than) | $ 0.2 | $ 0.2 |
Employee | Ethan White | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Total compensation (less than) | 0.1 | 0.1 |
Employee | Amberly Thompson | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Total compensation (less than) | 0.1 | 0.1 |
Employee | Edward Kim | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Total compensation (less than) | $ 0.1 | $ 0.1 |
Employee | Restricted Stock | Jason Smith | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Granted (in shares) | 37,566 | |
Vesting period | 2 years | |
Employee | Restricted Stock | Ethan White | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Granted (in shares) | 1,503 | 1,252 |
Vesting period | 2 years | 2 years |
Employee | Restricted Stock | Edward Kim | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Granted (in shares) | 656 | 516 |
Vesting period | 2 years | 2 years |
Employee | Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) | Jason Smith | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Granted (in shares) | 500,000 | |
Vesting period | 2 years | |
Vice President | Frederick Smith | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Total compensation (less than) | $ 0.2 | $ 0.2 |
Director | J. Duncan Smith | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Total compensation (less than) | $ 0.2 | $ 0.2 |
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS - Sched
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS - Schedule of Carrying Value and Fair Value of Notes and Debentures (Details) - USD ($) | 3 Months Ended | |||
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2023 | Feb. 07, 2023 | |
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Investments in equity securities | $ 155,000,000 | $ 162,000,000 | ||
Debt discount and deferred financing costs | $ 43,000,000 | 46,000,000 | ||
Interest Rate Swap | ||||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Notional amount | $ 600,000,000 | |||
Fixed interest rate | 3.90% | |||
Senior Notes | 5.500% Senior Notes due 2030 | ||||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Interest rate (as a percent) | 5.50% | |||
Senior Notes | 5.125% Senior Notes due 2027 | ||||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Interest rate (as a percent) | 5.125% | |||
Senior Notes | 4.125% Senior Secured Notes due 2030 | ||||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Interest rate (as a percent) | 4.125% | |||
Bally's | ||||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Option purchase price, minimum (in dollars per share) | $ 30 | |||
Option purchase price, maximum (in dollars per share) | $ 45 | |||
Bally's | Options and Warrants | ||||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Measurement adjustments | $ (1,000,000) | |||
Level 1 | Fair Value | ||||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Investments in equity securities | 0 | 6,000,000 | ||
Deferred compensation assets | 47,000,000 | 45,000,000 | ||
Deferred compensation liabilities | 46,000,000 | 44,000,000 | ||
Level 1 | Fair Value | Money market funds | ||||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Money market funds | 514,000,000 | 588,000,000 | ||
Level 2 | Face Value | Debt of variable interest entities | ||||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Debt fair value disclosure | 7,000,000 | 7,000,000 | ||
Level 2 | Face Value | Debt of non-media subsidiaries | ||||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Debt fair value disclosure | 15,000,000 | 15,000,000 | ||
Level 2 | Face Value | Senior Notes | 5.500% Senior Notes due 2030 | ||||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Debt fair value disclosure | 485,000,000 | 485,000,000 | ||
Level 2 | Face Value | Senior Notes | 5.125% Senior Notes due 2027 | ||||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Debt fair value disclosure | 274,000,000 | 274,000,000 | ||
Level 2 | Face Value | Senior Notes | 4.125% Senior Secured Notes due 2030 | ||||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Debt fair value disclosure | 737,000,000 | 737,000,000 | ||
Level 2 | Face Value | Term Loan | Term Loan B-2, due September 30, 2026 | ||||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Debt fair value disclosure | 1,185,000,000 | 1,215,000,000 | ||
Level 2 | Face Value | Term Loan | Term Loan B-3, due April 1, 2028 | ||||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Debt fair value disclosure | 720,000,000 | 722,000,000 | ||
Level 2 | Face Value | Term Loan | Term Loan B-4, due April 21, 2029 | ||||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Debt fair value disclosure | 737,000,000 | 739,000,000 | ||
Level 2 | Fair Value | ||||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Investments in equity securities | 110,000,000 | 110,000,000 | ||
Level 2 | Fair Value | Debt of variable interest entities | ||||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Debt fair value disclosure | 7,000,000 | 7,000,000 | ||
Level 2 | Fair Value | Debt of non-media subsidiaries | ||||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Debt fair value disclosure | 15,000,000 | 15,000,000 | ||
Level 2 | Fair Value | Senior Notes | 5.500% Senior Notes due 2030 | ||||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Debt fair value disclosure | 349,000,000 | 362,000,000 | ||
Level 2 | Fair Value | Senior Notes | 5.125% Senior Notes due 2027 | ||||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Debt fair value disclosure | 252,000,000 | 248,000,000 | ||
Level 2 | Fair Value | Senior Notes | 4.125% Senior Secured Notes due 2030 | ||||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Debt fair value disclosure | 536,000,000 | 521,000,000 | ||
Level 2 | Fair Value | Term Loan | Term Loan B-2, due September 30, 2026 | ||||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Debt fair value disclosure | 1,125,000,000 | 1,124,000,000 | ||
Level 2 | Fair Value | Term Loan | Term Loan B-3, due April 1, 2028 | ||||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Debt fair value disclosure | 569,000,000 | 595,000,000 | ||
Level 2 | Fair Value | Term Loan | Term Loan B-4, due April 21, 2029 | ||||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Debt fair value disclosure | 575,000,000 | 602,000,000 | ||
Level 2 | Fair Value | Interest Rate Swap | ||||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Interest rate swap | 7,000,000 | 1,000,000 | ||
Level 3 | Face Value | Options and Warrants | ||||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Measurement adjustments | (1,000,000) | $ 0 | ||
Level 3 | Fair Value | ||||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | ||||
Investments in equity securities | $ 45,000,000 | $ 46,000,000 |
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS - Sch_2
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS - Schedule of Level 3 Activity (Details) - Level 3 - Carrying Value - Options and Warrants - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | |
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | |
Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] | ||
Fair value at beginning of period | $ 46 | $ 75 |
Measurement adjustments | (1) | 0 |
Fair value at end of period | $ 45 | $ 75 |
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUM_15
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Nature of Operations (Details) | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 channel station segment market | |
Segment data | |
Number of reportable segments | segment | 2 |
Number of television stations owned | station | 185 |
Number of markets | market | 86 |
Number of channels | channel | 639 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |
Segment data | |
Number of reportable segments | segment | 1 |
Number of television stations owned | station | 185 |
Number of markets | market | 86 |
Number of channels | channel | 639 |
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUM_16
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Broadcast Television Programming (Details) - Television Programming Contract Rights | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 | |
Minimum | |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | |
Television programming contract period | 1 year |
Maximum | |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | |
Television programming contract period | 3 years |
Contract period utilizing accelerated amortization method | 3 years |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Minimum | |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | |
Television programming contract period | 1 year |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Maximum | |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | |
Television programming contract period | 3 years |
Contract period utilizing accelerated amortization method | 3 years |
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUM_17
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Hedge Accounting (Details) - Interest Rate Swap | Feb. 07, 2023 USD ($) |
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] | |
Notional amount | $ 600,000,000 |
Fixed interest rate | 3.90% |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] | |
Notional amount | $ 600,000,000 |
Fixed interest rate | 3.90% |
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUM_18
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Non-cash Investing and Financing Activities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | |
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | |
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items] | ||
Leased assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities | $ 2 | $ 3 |
Leased assets obtained in exchange for new finance lease liabilities | 7 | |
Property and equipment purchases | 5 | 6 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | ||
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items] | ||
Leased assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities | 2 | 3 |
Leased assets obtained in exchange for new finance lease liabilities | 7 | |
Property and equipment purchases | $ 5 | $ 6 |
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUM_19
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Revenue Recognition, Disaggregation of Revenue (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | |
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | |
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | $ 798 | $ 773 |
Distribution revenue | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 436 | 426 |
Core advertising revenue | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 297 | 306 |
Political advertising revenue | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 24 | 3 |
Other media, non-media, and intercompany revenues | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 41 | 38 |
Operating Segments | Local Media | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 727 | 705 |
Operating Segments | Other | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 15 | 17 |
Operating Segments | Distribution revenue | Local Media | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 384 | 381 |
Operating Segments | Distribution revenue | Other | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 0 | 0 |
Operating Segments | Core advertising revenue | Local Media | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 284 | 293 |
Operating Segments | Core advertising revenue | Other | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 6 | 6 |
Operating Segments | Political advertising revenue | Local Media | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 24 | 3 |
Operating Segments | Political advertising revenue | Other | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 0 | 0 |
Operating Segments | Other media, non-media, and intercompany revenues | Local Media | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 35 | 28 |
Operating Segments | Other media, non-media, and intercompany revenues | Other | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 9 | 11 |
Eliminations | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | (7) | (4) |
Eliminations | Distribution revenue | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 0 | 0 |
Eliminations | Core advertising revenue | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | (3) | (2) |
Eliminations | Political advertising revenue | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 0 | 0 |
Eliminations | Other media, non-media, and intercompany revenues | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | (4) | (2) |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 727 | 773 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Distribution revenue | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 426 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Core advertising revenue | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 306 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Political advertising revenue | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 3 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Other media, non-media, and intercompany revenues | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 38 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Operating Segments | Local Media | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 727 | 705 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Operating Segments | Other | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 72 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Operating Segments | Distribution revenue | Local Media | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 384 | 381 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Operating Segments | Distribution revenue | Other | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 45 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Operating Segments | Core advertising revenue | Local Media | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 284 | 293 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Operating Segments | Core advertising revenue | Other | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 15 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Operating Segments | Political advertising revenue | Local Media | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 24 | 3 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Operating Segments | Political advertising revenue | Other | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 0 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Operating Segments | Other media, non-media, and intercompany revenues | Local Media | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | $ 35 | 28 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Operating Segments | Other media, non-media, and intercompany revenues | Other | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 12 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Eliminations | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | (4) | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Eliminations | Distribution revenue | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 0 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Eliminations | Core advertising revenue | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | (2) | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Eliminations | Political advertising revenue | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | 0 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Eliminations | Other media, non-media, and intercompany revenues | ||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||
Total revenues | $ (2) |
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUM_20
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Revenue Recognition, Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Deferred revenue | $ 187 | $ 178 | |
Deferred revenue, noncurrent | 119 | $ 124 | |
Deferred revenue, revenue recognized | $ 18 | $ 19 | |
Customer Concentration Risk | Revenue Benchmark | Customer One | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Concentration risk (as a percent) | 11% | 11% | |
Customer Concentration Risk | Revenue Benchmark | Customer Two | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Concentration risk (as a percent) | 11% | 10% | |
Customer Concentration Risk | Accounts Receivable | Customer One | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Concentration risk (as a percent) | 12% | 10% | |
Customer Concentration Risk | Accounts Receivable | Customer Two | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Concentration risk (as a percent) | 11% | 10% | |
Customer Concentration Risk | Accounts Receivable | Customer Three | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Concentration risk (as a percent) | 10% | ||
Customer Concentration Risk | Accounts Receivable | Customer Four | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Concentration risk (as a percent) | 10% | ||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Deferred revenue | $ 180 | $ 171 | |
Deferred revenue, noncurrent | 119 | $ 124 | |
Deferred revenue, revenue recognized | $ 15 | $ 19 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Customer Concentration Risk | Revenue Benchmark | Customer One | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Concentration risk (as a percent) | 11% | 11% | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Customer Concentration Risk | Revenue Benchmark | Customer Two | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Concentration risk (as a percent) | 11% | 10% | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Customer Concentration Risk | Accounts Receivable | Customer One | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Concentration risk (as a percent) | 12% | 10% | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Customer Concentration Risk | Accounts Receivable | Customer Two | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Concentration risk (as a percent) | 11% | 10% | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Customer Concentration Risk | Accounts Receivable | Customer Three | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Concentration risk (as a percent) | 10% | ||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Customer Concentration Risk | Accounts Receivable | Customer Four | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | |||
Concentration risk (as a percent) | 10% |
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUM_21
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Income Taxes (Details) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 USD ($) | |
Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible [Line Items] | |
Adjustment related to prior years' pending income tax refund claims | $ 7.5 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |
Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible [Line Items] | |
Adjustment related to prior years' pending income tax refund claims | $ 7.5 |
OTHER ASSETS - Schedule of Ot_2
OTHER ASSETS - Schedule of Other Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Mar. 31, 2024 | Dec. 31, 2023 |
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | ||
Equity method investments | $ 113 | $ 128 |
Other investments | 368 | 387 |
Income tax receivable | 140 | 131 |
Other | 57 | 51 |
Total other assets | 725 | 742 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | ||
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | ||
Equity method investments | 1 | 1 |
Other investments | 3 | 0 |
Income tax receivable | 140 | 131 |
Other | 55 | 52 |
Total other assets | $ 199 | $ 184 |
OTHER ASSETS - Narrative (Det_2
OTHER ASSETS - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) | 3 Months Ended | |||
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2023 | Mar. 01, 2022 | |
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | ||||
Income (loss) from equity method investments | $ 14,000,000 | $ 31,000,000 | ||
Unrealized gain (loss) on FV-NI and NAV investments | 2,000,000 | (1,000,000) | ||
Equity investments, net of cumulative impairment | 39,000,000 | $ 36,000,000 | ||
Impairment recorded | 0 | 0 | ||
DSIH | ||||
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | ||||
Fair value of equity method investments | 0 | 0 | $ 0 | |
Income (loss) from equity method investments | 0 | 0 | ||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | ||||
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | ||||
Income (loss) from equity method investments | 0 | 31,000,000 | ||
Unrealized gain (loss) on FV-NI and NAV investments | (1,000,000) | |||
Equity investments, net of cumulative impairment | 3,000,000 | |||
Impairment recorded | 0 | 0 | ||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | DSIH | ||||
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | ||||
Fair value of equity method investments | 0 | 0 | $ 0 | |
Income (loss) from equity method investments | $ 0 | $ 0 |
NOTES PAYABLE, FINANCE LEASES_4
NOTES PAYABLE, FINANCE LEASES, AND COMMERCIAL BANK FINANCING (Details) | 3 Months Ended | |||
Mar. 31, 2024 USD ($) | Mar. 31, 2023 USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) | Feb. 07, 2023 USD ($) | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||
Borrowings under revolving credit facility exceed total commitments (as a percent) | 35% | |||
Gain on extinguishment of debt | $ 1,000,000 | $ 0 | ||
Consolidated VIEs | ||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||
Consolidated total debt | 2,000,000 | $ 2,000,000 | ||
Interest Rate Swap | ||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||
Notional amount | $ 600,000,000 | |||
Fixed interest rate | 3.90% | |||
Fair value of interest rate swap | 7,000,000 | 1,000,000 | ||
Guarantee Obligations | ||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||
Unconditional and irrevocably guaranteed debt | 2,000,000 | 2,000,000 | ||
Provide guarantee of certain obligations | $ 117,000,000 | |||
Annual escalations (as a percent) | 4% | |||
Debt term (year) | 5 years | |||
Affiliated Entity | ||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||
Finance lease liabilities, current | $ 2,000,000 | 2,000,000 | ||
Finance lease liabilities, non-current | 11,000,000 | 5,000,000 | ||
Term Loan B-2, due September 30, 2026 | Term Loan | ||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||
Debt instrument, repurchased face amount | 27,000,000 | |||
Repayment of term loan | 25,000,000 | |||
Gain on extinguishment of debt | $ 1,000,000 | |||
STG Revolving Credit Facility | ||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||
First lien leverage ratio | 4.5 | |||
Borrowings outstanding | $ 0 | |||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | ||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||
Borrowings under revolving credit facility exceed total commitments (as a percent) | 35% | |||
Gain on extinguishment of debt | $ 1,000,000 | $ 0 | ||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Consolidated VIEs | ||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||
Consolidated total debt | 2,000,000 | 2,000,000 | ||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Interest Rate Swap | ||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||
Notional amount | $ 600,000,000 | |||
Fixed interest rate | 3.90% | |||
Fair value of interest rate swap | 7,000,000 | 1,000,000 | ||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Guarantee Obligations | ||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||
Unconditional and irrevocably guaranteed debt | 2,000,000 | 2,000,000 | ||
Provide guarantee of certain obligations | $ 117,000,000 | |||
Annual escalations (as a percent) | 4% | |||
Debt term (year) | 5 years | |||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Affiliated Entity | ||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||
Finance lease liabilities, current | $ 2,000,000 | 2,000,000 | ||
Finance lease liabilities, non-current | 11,000,000 | $ 5,000,000 | ||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Term Loan B-2, due September 30, 2026 | Term Loan | ||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||
Debt instrument, repurchased face amount | 27,000,000 | |||
Repayment of term loan | 25,000,000 | |||
Gain on extinguishment of debt | $ 1,000,000 | |||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | STG Revolving Credit Facility | ||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||
First lien leverage ratio | 4.5 | |||
Borrowings outstanding | $ 0 |
REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INT_4
REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | |
Feb. 10, 2023 | Mar. 31, 2023 | |
Temporary Equity [Line Items] | ||
Aggregate redemption price | $ 190 | |
Unreturned capital contribution, percentage | 95% | |
Unreturned capital contribution | $ 175 | |
Dividends accrued during the period | $ 3 | |
Redeemable Preferred Stock | ||
Temporary Equity [Line Items] | ||
Redeemed units (in shares) | 175,000 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | ||
Temporary Equity [Line Items] | ||
Aggregate redemption price | $ 190 | |
Unreturned capital contribution, percentage | 95% | |
Unreturned capital contribution | $ 175 | |
Dividends accrued during the period | $ 3 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Redeemable Preferred Stock | ||
Temporary Equity [Line Items] | ||
Redeemed units (in shares) | 175,000 |
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES_3
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES - Narrative (Details) $ in Thousands | 1 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||
Apr. 30, 2024 USD ($) | Jan. 17, 2024 USD ($) | Dec. 08, 2023 USD ($) | Jul. 19, 2023 USD ($) | May 26, 2023 USD ($) | Sep. 21, 2022 USD ($) station | Jul. 28, 2021 USD ($) | Oct. 15, 2020 USD ($) | Sep. 02, 2020 USD ($) | Aug. 19, 2020 USD ($) | Jun. 08, 2020 petition | May 22, 2020 USD ($) | Nov. 06, 2018 lawsuit | Dec. 31, 2017 USD ($) | Mar. 31, 2024 USD ($) station | Dec. 31, 2021 USD ($) | Oct. 03, 2018 broadcaster | |
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||
Number of television stations owned | station | 185 | ||||||||||||||||
Unfavorable Regulatory Action | |||||||||||||||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||
Proposed fine | $ 2,700 | $ 9,000 | $ 13,000 | ||||||||||||||
Proposed fine per station | $ 25 | 500 | |||||||||||||||
Issuance of forfeiture penalty upheld | $ 500 | ||||||||||||||||
Additional legal expenses accrued | $ 8,000 | ||||||||||||||||
Number of television stations owned | station | 83 | ||||||||||||||||
Loss contingency, damages sought, total | $ 3,400 | ||||||||||||||||
Loss contingency accrual | $ 3,400 | ||||||||||||||||
Unfavorable Regulatory Action | Minimum | |||||||||||||||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||
Proposed fine per station | 20 | ||||||||||||||||
Unfavorable Regulatory Action | Maximum | |||||||||||||||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||
Proposed fine per station | 26 | ||||||||||||||||
Management Services Agreement Misconduct | |||||||||||||||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||
Cash payments for legal settlements | 50,000 | ||||||||||||||||
Loss contingency accrual | $ 445,000 | ||||||||||||||||
Loss contingency, allegations, payments received | $ 1,500,000 | ||||||||||||||||
Loss contingency, settlement, value of claims released | $ 1,500,000 | ||||||||||||||||
Loss contingency, damages awarded | 495,000 | ||||||||||||||||
Management Services Agreement Misconduct | Subsequent Event | |||||||||||||||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||
Cash payments for legal settlements | $ 495,000 | ||||||||||||||||
Management Services Agreement Misconduct | Subsequent Event | Sinclair Television Group, Inc. | |||||||||||||||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||
Cash payments for legal settlements | 347,000 | ||||||||||||||||
Management Services Agreement Misconduct | Subsequent Event | Sinclair Ventures, LLC | |||||||||||||||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||
Cash payments for legal settlements | 148,000 | ||||||||||||||||
Breach of Merger Agreement | |||||||||||||||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||
Amount awarded to other party | $ 48,000 | ||||||||||||||||
Cash payments for legal settlements | $ 48,000 | ||||||||||||||||
Compliance plan term | 4 years | ||||||||||||||||
Number of petitions filed | petition | 2 | ||||||||||||||||
Various Cases Alleging Violation of Sherman Antitrust Act | |||||||||||||||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||
Amount awarded to other party | $ 48,000 | ||||||||||||||||
Loss contingency, new claims filed, number (lawsuit) | lawsuit | 22 | ||||||||||||||||
Loss contingency, number of other broadcasters | broadcaster | 13 | ||||||||||||||||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |||||||||||||||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||
Number of television stations owned | station | 185 | ||||||||||||||||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Unfavorable Regulatory Action | |||||||||||||||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||
Proposed fine | $ 2,700 | 9,000 | $ 13,000 | ||||||||||||||
Proposed fine per station | $ 25 | $ 500 | |||||||||||||||
Issuance of forfeiture penalty upheld | $ 500 | ||||||||||||||||
Additional legal expenses accrued | $ 8,000 | ||||||||||||||||
Number of television stations owned | station | 83 | ||||||||||||||||
Loss contingency, damages sought, total | $ 3,400 | ||||||||||||||||
Loss contingency accrual | $ 3,400 | ||||||||||||||||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Unfavorable Regulatory Action | Minimum | |||||||||||||||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||
Proposed fine per station | 20 | ||||||||||||||||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Unfavorable Regulatory Action | Maximum | |||||||||||||||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||
Proposed fine per station | $ 26 | ||||||||||||||||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Management Services Agreement Misconduct | |||||||||||||||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||
Cash payments for legal settlements | 50,000 | ||||||||||||||||
Loss contingency accrual | $ 445,000 | ||||||||||||||||
Loss contingency, allegations, payments received | $ 1,500,000 | ||||||||||||||||
Loss contingency, settlement, value of claims released | 1,500,000 | ||||||||||||||||
Loss contingency, damages awarded | $ 495,000 | ||||||||||||||||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Management Services Agreement Misconduct | Subsequent Event | |||||||||||||||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||
Cash payments for legal settlements | 495,000 | ||||||||||||||||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Management Services Agreement Misconduct | Subsequent Event | Sinclair Television Group, Inc. | |||||||||||||||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||
Cash payments for legal settlements | 347,000 | ||||||||||||||||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Management Services Agreement Misconduct | Subsequent Event | Sinclair Ventures, LLC | |||||||||||||||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||
Cash payments for legal settlements | $ 148,000 | ||||||||||||||||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Breach of Merger Agreement | |||||||||||||||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||
Amount awarded to other party | $ 48,000 | ||||||||||||||||
Cash payments for legal settlements | $ 48,000 | ||||||||||||||||
Compliance plan term | 4 years | ||||||||||||||||
Number of petitions filed | petition | 2 | ||||||||||||||||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Various Cases Alleging Violation of Sherman Antitrust Act | |||||||||||||||||
Loss Contingencies [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||
Amount awarded to other party | $ 48,000 | ||||||||||||||||
Loss contingency, new claims filed, number (lawsuit) | lawsuit | 22 | ||||||||||||||||
Loss contingency, number of other broadcasters | broadcaster | 13 |
SEGMENT DATA - Narrative (Det_2
SEGMENT DATA - Narrative (Details) | 3 Months Ended |
Mar. 31, 2024 segment | |
Segment data | |
Number of reportable segments | 2 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |
Segment data | |
Number of reportable segments | 1 |
SEGMENT DATA - Segment Financ_2
SEGMENT DATA - Segment Financial Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | |||
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2023 | ||
Segment data | ||||
Assets | [1] | $ 6,038 | $ 6,085 | |
Revenue | 798 | $ 773 | ||
Depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived intangibles and other assets | 63 | 65 | ||
Amortization of program contract costs | 19 | 22 | ||
Corporate general and administrative expenses | 58 | 58 | ||
(Gain) loss on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment | 0 | 6 | ||
Operating income (loss) | 42 | 21 | ||
Interest expense including amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs | 76 | 74 | ||
Income from equity method investments | 14 | 31 | ||
Operating Segments | Local Media | ||||
Segment data | ||||
Assets | 4,733 | |||
Revenue | 727 | 705 | ||
Depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived intangibles and other assets | 58 | 59 | ||
Amortization of program contract costs | 19 | 22 | ||
Corporate general and administrative expenses | 41 | 32 | ||
(Gain) loss on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment | (1) | |||
Operating income (loss) | 41 | 41 | ||
Interest expense including amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs | 76 | 74 | ||
Income from equity method investments | 0 | 0 | ||
Other & Corporate | ||||
Segment data | ||||
Assets | 1,008 | |||
Revenue | 15 | 17 | ||
Depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived intangibles and other assets | 1 | 2 | ||
Amortization of program contract costs | 0 | 0 | ||
Corporate general and administrative expenses | 16 | 26 | ||
(Gain) loss on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment | 7 | |||
Operating income (loss) | (19) | (38) | ||
Interest expense including amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs | 0 | 0 | ||
Income from equity method investments | 15 | 31 | ||
Eliminations | ||||
Segment data | ||||
Assets | (3) | |||
Revenue | (7) | (4) | ||
Depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived intangibles and other assets | (1) | (1) | ||
Amortization of program contract costs | 0 | 0 | ||
Corporate general and administrative expenses | 0 | 0 | ||
(Gain) loss on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment | 0 | |||
Operating income (loss) | 0 | 0 | ||
Interest expense including amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs | 0 | 0 | ||
Income from equity method investments | 0 | 0 | ||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | ||||
Segment data | ||||
Assets | [2] | 4,838 | $ 4,837 | |
Revenue | 727 | 773 | ||
Depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived intangibles and other assets | 65 | |||
Amortization of program contract costs | 19 | 22 | ||
Corporate general and administrative expenses | 41 | 58 | ||
(Gain) loss on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment | 0 | 6 | ||
Operating income (loss) | 41 | 21 | ||
Interest expense including amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs | 76 | 74 | ||
Income from equity method investments | 0 | 31 | ||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Operating Segments | Local Media | ||||
Segment data | ||||
Assets | 4,752 | |||
Revenue | 727 | 705 | ||
Depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived intangibles and other assets | 58 | 59 | ||
Amortization of program contract costs | 19 | 22 | ||
Corporate general and administrative expenses | 41 | 32 | ||
(Gain) loss on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment | (1) | |||
Operating income (loss) | 41 | 41 | ||
Interest expense including amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs | 76 | 74 | ||
Income from equity method investments | 0 | |||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Corporate | ||||
Segment data | ||||
Assets | $ 86 | |||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Other & Corporate | ||||
Segment data | ||||
Revenue | 72 | |||
Depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived intangibles and other assets | 7 | |||
Amortization of program contract costs | 0 | |||
Corporate general and administrative expenses | 26 | |||
(Gain) loss on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment | 7 | |||
Operating income (loss) | (20) | |||
Interest expense including amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs | 0 | |||
Income from equity method investments | 31 | |||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Eliminations | ||||
Segment data | ||||
Revenue | (4) | |||
Depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived intangibles and other assets | (1) | |||
Amortization of program contract costs | 0 | |||
Corporate general and administrative expenses | 0 | |||
(Gain) loss on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment | 0 | |||
Operating income (loss) | 0 | |||
Interest expense including amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs | 0 | |||
Income from equity method investments | $ 0 | |||
[1]Our consolidated total assets as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 include total assets of variable interest entities ("VIE") of $78 million and $85 million, respectively, which can only be used to settle the obligations of the VIEs. Our consolidated total liabilities as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 include total liabilities of VIEs of $16 million and $17 million, respectively, for which the creditors of the VIEs have no recourse to us. See Note 8. Variable Interest Entities , respectively, for which the creditors of the VIEs have no recourse to SBG. See Note 7. Variable Interest Entities . |
VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES - _2
VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | ||
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] | |||
Equity method investments | $ 113 | $ 128 | |
Consolidated VIEs | |||
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] | |||
Variable interest entities outsourcing agreement initial term | 5 years | ||
Consolidated VIEs | Eliminations | |||
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] | |||
Liabilities associated with the certain outsourcing agreements and purchase options | $ 130 | 130 | |
Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary | |||
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] | |||
Gain from related equity investments and other investments | (1) | $ 35 | |
Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary | DSIH | |||
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] | |||
Equity method investments | 0 | ||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |||
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] | |||
Equity method investments | $ 1 | 1 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Consolidated VIEs | |||
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] | |||
Variable interest entities outsourcing agreement initial term | 5 years | ||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Consolidated VIEs | Eliminations | |||
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] | |||
Liabilities associated with the certain outsourcing agreements and purchase options | $ 130 | $ 130 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary | |||
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] | |||
Gain from related equity investments and other investments | $ 35 | ||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary | DSIH | |||
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] | |||
Equity method investments | $ 0 |
VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES - _3
VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES - Schedule of Variable Interest Entities Assets and Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Mar. 31, 2024 | Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Current assets: | |||
Accounts receivable, net | $ 642 | $ 616 | |
Other current assets | 177 | 189 | |
Total current assets | 1,481 | 1,475 | |
Property and equipment, net | 720 | 715 | |
Total assets | [1] | 6,038 | 6,085 |
Current liabilities: | |||
Other current liabilities | 70 | 57 | |
Long-term liabilities: | |||
Notes payable, finance leases, and commercial bank financing, less current portion | 4,112 | 4,139 | |
Other long-term liabilities | 200 | 204 | |
Total liabilities | [1] | 5,769 | 5,864 |
Consolidated VIEs | |||
Current assets: | |||
Accounts receivable, net | 20 | 23 | |
Other current assets | 2 | 3 | |
Total current assets | 22 | 26 | |
Property and equipment, net | 10 | 11 | |
Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets | 15 | 15 | |
Definite-lived intangible assets, net | 31 | 33 | |
Total assets | 78 | 85 | |
Current liabilities: | |||
Other current liabilities | 13 | 14 | |
Long-term liabilities: | |||
Notes payable, finance leases, and commercial bank financing, less current portion | 6 | 6 | |
Other long-term liabilities | 3 | 3 | |
Total liabilities | 22 | 23 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |||
Current assets: | |||
Accounts receivable, net | 577 | 568 | |
Other current assets | 129 | 139 | |
Total current assets | 1,050 | 1,033 | |
Property and equipment, net | 698 | 692 | |
Total assets | [2] | 4,838 | 4,837 |
Current liabilities: | |||
Other current liabilities | 69 | 50 | |
Long-term liabilities: | |||
Notes payable, finance leases, and commercial bank financing, less current portion | 4,098 | 4,124 | |
Other long-term liabilities | 153 | 158 | |
Total liabilities | [2] | 5,693 | 5,765 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Consolidated VIEs | |||
Current assets: | |||
Accounts receivable, net | 20 | 23 | |
Other current assets | 2 | 3 | |
Total current assets | 22 | 26 | |
Property and equipment, net | 10 | 11 | |
Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets | 15 | 15 | |
Definite-lived intangible assets, net | 31 | 33 | |
Total assets | 78 | 85 | |
Current liabilities: | |||
Other current liabilities | 13 | 14 | |
Long-term liabilities: | |||
Notes payable, finance leases, and commercial bank financing, less current portion | 6 | 6 | |
Other long-term liabilities | 3 | 3 | |
Total liabilities | $ 22 | $ 23 | |
[1]Our consolidated total assets as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 include total assets of variable interest entities ("VIE") of $78 million and $85 million, respectively, which can only be used to settle the obligations of the VIEs. Our consolidated total liabilities as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 include total liabilities of VIEs of $16 million and $17 million, respectively, for which the creditors of the VIEs have no recourse to us. See Note 8. Variable Interest Entities , respectively, for which the creditors of the VIEs have no recourse to SBG. See Note 7. Variable Interest Entities . |
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS -_2
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS - Transactions With SBG's Indirect Controlling Shareholders (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | |
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | |
Related Party | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Lease payments | $ 2 | $ 2 |
Charter Aircraft | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Amounts of transaction | 0.1 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Related Party | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Lease payments | $ 2 | 2 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Charter Aircraft | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Amounts of transaction | $ 0.1 |
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS -_3
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS - Cunningham Broadcasting Corporation (Details) $ in Millions | 1 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||
Aug. 31, 2016 USD ($) | Apr. 30, 2016 USD ($) | Mar. 31, 2024 USD ($) renewal | Mar. 31, 2023 USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) | |
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||||
Total revenues | $ 798 | $ 773 | |||
Cunningham | |||||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||||
Right to acquire capital stock | 100% | ||||
Remaining purchase price | $ 54 | $ 54 | |||
Purchase options, broadcast stations | 0.2 | ||||
Cunningham | Related Party | |||||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||||
Total revenues | $ 34 | 36 | |||
Share service agreement, annual service consideration increasing rate ( as a percent) | 3% | ||||
Cunningham | LMA | |||||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||||
Number of additional renewal terms | renewal | 1 | ||||
Agreement renewal period | 5 years | ||||
Percentage of net broadcast revenue used to determine annual LMA fees required to be paid | 3% | ||||
Amount used to determine annual LMA fees required to be paid | $ 6 | ||||
Annual increase in aggregate purchase price | 6% | ||||
Amounts of transaction | $ 66 | 65 | |||
Amount paid | $ 3 | 3 | |||
Cunningham | Renewal Term | |||||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||||
Agreement renewal period | 8 years | ||||
Cunningham | Initial Fee | |||||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||||
Amounts of transaction | $ 1 | ||||
Cunningham | Annual Master Control And Maintenance Fee | |||||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||||
Amounts of transaction | 0.3 | ||||
Cunningham | Annual Fee | |||||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||||
Amounts of transaction | $ 0.6 | ||||
Cunningham | Multi-Cast Agreements | |||||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||||
Amount paid | $ 0.5 | 0.5 | |||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |||||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||||
Total revenues | $ 727 | 773 | |||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Cunningham | |||||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||||
Right to acquire capital stock | 100% | ||||
Remaining purchase price | $ 54 | 54 | |||
Purchase options, broadcast stations | 0.2 | ||||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Cunningham | Related Party | |||||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||||
Total revenues | $ 34 | 36 | |||
Share service agreement, annual service consideration increasing rate ( as a percent) | 3% | ||||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Cunningham | LMA | |||||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||||
Number of additional renewal terms | renewal | 1 | ||||
Agreement renewal period | 5 years | ||||
Percentage of net broadcast revenue used to determine annual LMA fees required to be paid | 3% | ||||
Amount used to determine annual LMA fees required to be paid | $ 6 | ||||
Annual increase in aggregate purchase price | 6% | ||||
Amounts of transaction | $ 66 | $ 65 | |||
Amount paid | $ 3 | 3 | |||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Cunningham | Renewal Term | |||||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||||
Agreement renewal period | 8 years | ||||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Cunningham | Initial Fee | |||||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||||
Amounts of transaction | 1 | ||||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Cunningham | Annual Master Control And Maintenance Fee | |||||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||||
Amounts of transaction | $ 0.3 | ||||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Cunningham | Annual Fee | |||||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||||
Amounts of transaction | $ 0.6 | ||||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Cunningham | Multi-Cast Agreements | |||||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||||
Amount paid | $ 0.5 | $ 0.5 |
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS -_4
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS - Leased Property by Real Estate Ventures (Details) - Lease Services - Related Party - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | |
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | |
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Amount received | $ 0.4 | $ 0.4 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Amount received | $ 0.4 |
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS - S
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS - Sinclair, Inc. (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | ||
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||
Revenue | $ 798 | $ 773 | |
Other current liabilities | 70 | $ 57 | |
Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 177 | 189 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||
Revenue | 727 | $ 773 | |
Other current liabilities | 69 | 50 | |
Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 129 | 139 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Sinclair, Inc. | Related Party | |||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||
Other current liabilities | 6 | ||
Prepaid expenses and other current assets | $ 3 | ||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Sinclair, Inc. | Related Party | Cash payments from Sinclair | |||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||
Amounts of transaction | 15 | ||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Sinclair, Inc. | Related Party | Local Media | |||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | |||
Revenue | 2 | ||
Expenses | $ 2 |
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS -_5
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS - Diamond Sports Intermediate Holdings LLC (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | |
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | |
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Revenue | $ 798 | $ 773 |
DSIH | Related Party | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Revenue | 4 | 5 |
Management Services Agreement with Diamond Sports Group | Local Media | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Revenue | 13 | 9 |
Notes Receivable of Diamond Sports Finance SPV, LLC | Related Party | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Proceeds from collection of notes receivable | 3 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Revenue | 727 | 773 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Local Media | DSIH | Related Party | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Revenue | 1 | 5 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Management Services Agreement with Diamond Sports Group | Local Media | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Revenue | $ 13 | 9 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Notes Receivable of Diamond Sports Finance SPV, LLC | Related Party | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Proceeds from collection of notes receivable | $ 3 |
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS -_6
RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS - Employees (Details) - Related Party - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | |
Mar. 31, 2024 | Mar. 31, 2023 | |
Employee | Jason Smith | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Total compensation (less than) | $ 0.2 | $ 0.2 |
Employee | Ethan White | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Total compensation (less than) | 0.1 | 0.1 |
Employee | Amberly Thompson | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Total compensation (less than) | 0.1 | 0.1 |
Employee | Edward Kim | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Total compensation (less than) | $ 0.1 | $ 0.1 |
Employee | Restricted Stock | Jason Smith | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Granted (in shares) | 37,566 | |
Vesting period | 2 years | |
Employee | Restricted Stock | Ethan White | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Granted (in shares) | 1,503 | 1,252 |
Vesting period | 2 years | 2 years |
Employee | Restricted Stock | Edward Kim | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Granted (in shares) | 656 | 516 |
Vesting period | 2 years | 2 years |
Employee | Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) | Jason Smith | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Granted (in shares) | 500,000 | |
Vesting period | 2 years | |
Vice President | Frederick Smith | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Total compensation (less than) | $ 0.2 | $ 0.2 |
Director | J. Duncan Smith | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Total compensation (less than) | 0.2 | 0.2 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Employee | Jason Smith | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Total compensation (less than) | 0.2 | 0.2 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Employee | Ethan White | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Total compensation (less than) | 0.1 | 0.1 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Employee | Amberly Thompson | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Total compensation (less than) | 0.1 | 0.1 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Employee | Edward Kim | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Total compensation (less than) | $ 0.1 | $ 0.1 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Employee | Restricted Stock | Jason Smith | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Granted (in shares) | 37,566 | |
Vesting period | 2 years | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Employee | Restricted Stock | Ethan White | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Granted (in shares) | 1,503 | 1,252 |
Vesting period | 2 years | 2 years |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Employee | Restricted Stock | Edward Kim | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Granted (in shares) | 656 | 516 |
Vesting period | 2 years | 2 years |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Employee | Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) | Jason Smith | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Granted (in shares) | 500,000 | |
Vesting period | 2 years | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Vice President | Frederick Smith | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Total compensation (less than) | $ 0.2 | $ 0.2 |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Director | J. Duncan Smith | ||
Related Party Transaction [Line Items] | ||
Total compensation (less than) | $ 0.2 | $ 0.2 |
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS - Sch_3
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS - Schedule of Carrying Value and Fair Value of Notes and Debentures (Details) - USD ($) | Mar. 31, 2024 | Dec. 31, 2023 | Feb. 07, 2023 |
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt discount and deferred financing costs | $ 43,000,000 | $ 46,000,000 | |
Interest Rate Swap | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Notional amount | $ 600,000,000 | ||
Fixed interest rate | 3.90% | ||
Senior Notes | 5.500% Senior Notes due 2030 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Interest rate (as a percent) | 5.50% | ||
Senior Notes | 5.125% Senior Notes due 2027 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Interest rate (as a percent) | 5.125% | ||
Senior Notes | 4.125% Senior Secured Notes due 2030 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Interest rate (as a percent) | 4.125% | ||
Level 1 | Fair Value | Money market funds | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Money market funds | $ 514,000,000 | 588,000,000 | |
Level 2 | Face Value | Debt of variable interest entities | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt fair value disclosure | 7,000,000 | 7,000,000 | |
Level 2 | Face Value | Senior Notes | 5.500% Senior Notes due 2030 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt fair value disclosure | 485,000,000 | 485,000,000 | |
Level 2 | Face Value | Senior Notes | 5.125% Senior Notes due 2027 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt fair value disclosure | 274,000,000 | 274,000,000 | |
Level 2 | Face Value | Senior Notes | 4.125% Senior Secured Notes due 2030 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt fair value disclosure | 737,000,000 | 737,000,000 | |
Level 2 | Face Value | Term Loan | Term Loan B-2, due September 30, 2026 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt fair value disclosure | 1,185,000,000 | 1,215,000,000 | |
Level 2 | Face Value | Term Loan | Term Loan B-3, due April 1, 2028 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt fair value disclosure | 720,000,000 | 722,000,000 | |
Level 2 | Face Value | Term Loan | Term Loan B-4, due April 21, 2029 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt fair value disclosure | 737,000,000 | 739,000,000 | |
Level 2 | Fair Value | Debt of variable interest entities | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt fair value disclosure | 7,000,000 | 7,000,000 | |
Level 2 | Fair Value | Senior Notes | 5.500% Senior Notes due 2030 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt fair value disclosure | 349,000,000 | 362,000,000 | |
Level 2 | Fair Value | Senior Notes | 5.125% Senior Notes due 2027 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt fair value disclosure | 252,000,000 | 248,000,000 | |
Level 2 | Fair Value | Senior Notes | 4.125% Senior Secured Notes due 2030 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt fair value disclosure | 536,000,000 | 521,000,000 | |
Level 2 | Fair Value | Term Loan | Term Loan B-2, due September 30, 2026 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt fair value disclosure | 1,125,000,000 | 1,124,000,000 | |
Level 2 | Fair Value | Term Loan | Term Loan B-3, due April 1, 2028 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt fair value disclosure | 569,000,000 | 595,000,000 | |
Level 2 | Fair Value | Term Loan | Term Loan B-4, due April 21, 2029 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt fair value disclosure | 575,000,000 | 602,000,000 | |
Level 2 | Fair Value | Interest Rate Swap | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Interest rate swap | 7,000,000 | 1,000,000 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt discount and deferred financing costs | $ 43,000,000 | 46,000,000 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Interest Rate Swap | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Notional amount | $ 600,000,000 | ||
Fixed interest rate | 3.90% | ||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Senior Notes | 5.500% Senior Notes due 2030 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Interest rate (as a percent) | 5.50% | ||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Senior Notes | 5.125% Senior Notes due 2027 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Interest rate (as a percent) | 5.125% | ||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Senior Notes | 4.125% Senior Secured Notes due 2030 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Interest rate (as a percent) | 4.125% | ||
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Level 1 | Fair Value | Money market funds | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Money market funds | $ 278,000,000 | 309,000,000 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Level 2 | Face Value | Debt of variable interest entities | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt fair value disclosure | 7,000,000 | 7,000,000 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Level 2 | Face Value | Senior Notes | 5.500% Senior Notes due 2030 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt fair value disclosure | 485,000,000 | 485,000,000 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Level 2 | Face Value | Senior Notes | 5.125% Senior Notes due 2027 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt fair value disclosure | 274,000,000 | 274,000,000 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Level 2 | Face Value | Senior Notes | 4.125% Senior Secured Notes due 2030 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt fair value disclosure | 737,000,000 | 737,000,000 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Level 2 | Face Value | Term Loan | Term Loan B-2, due September 30, 2026 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt fair value disclosure | 1,185,000,000 | 1,215,000,000 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Level 2 | Face Value | Term Loan | Term Loan B-3, due April 1, 2028 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt fair value disclosure | 720,000,000 | 722,000,000 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Level 2 | Face Value | Term Loan | Term Loan B-4, due April 21, 2029 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt fair value disclosure | 737,000,000 | 739,000,000 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Level 2 | Fair Value | Debt of variable interest entities | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt fair value disclosure | 7,000,000 | 7,000,000 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Level 2 | Fair Value | Senior Notes | 5.500% Senior Notes due 2030 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt fair value disclosure | 349,000,000 | 362,000,000 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Level 2 | Fair Value | Senior Notes | 5.125% Senior Notes due 2027 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt fair value disclosure | 252,000,000 | 248,000,000 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Level 2 | Fair Value | Senior Notes | 4.125% Senior Secured Notes due 2030 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt fair value disclosure | 536,000,000 | 521,000,000 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Level 2 | Fair Value | Term Loan | Term Loan B-2, due September 30, 2026 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt fair value disclosure | 1,125,000,000 | 1,124,000,000 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Level 2 | Fair Value | Term Loan | Term Loan B-3, due April 1, 2028 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt fair value disclosure | 569,000,000 | 595,000,000 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Level 2 | Fair Value | Term Loan | Term Loan B-4, due April 21, 2029 | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Debt fair value disclosure | 575,000,000 | 602,000,000 | |
Sinclair Broadcast Group, LLC | Level 2 | Fair Value | Interest Rate Swap | |||
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: | |||
Interest rate swap | $ 7,000,000 | $ 1,000,000 |