Saga Communications (SGA) 10-Q 2023 Q1 Quarterly report

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)

☒ QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the Quarterly Period ended March 31, 2023

OR

☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from                      to

Commission File Number 1-11588

Saga Communications, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Florida	38-3042953
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)	(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
73 Kercheval Avenue Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan (Address of principal executive offices)	48236 (Zip Code)

(313) 886-7070

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each class	Trading symbol(s)	Name of each exchange on which registered
Class A Common Stock, par value $.01 per share	SGA	NASDAQ Global Market

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes þ No ◻.

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes þ No ◻.

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer ◻	Accelerated filer þ	Non-accelerated filer ◻
Smaller Reporting Company ☑	Emerging growth company ☐

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ◻

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

The number of shares of the registrant’s Class A Common Stock, $.01 par value, outstanding as of May 5, 2023 was 6,123,529.

INDEX

	Page
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION	3
Item 1. Financial Statements (Unaudited)	3
Condensed consolidated balance sheets — March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022	3
Condensed consolidated statements of operations — Three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022	4
Condensed consolidated statements of stockholders’ equity – Three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022	5
Condensed consolidated statements of cash flows — Three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022	6
Notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements	7
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	20
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk	27
Item 4. Controls and Procedures	28
PART II OTHER INFORMATION	28
Item 1. Legal Proceedings	28
Item 1A. Risk Factors	28
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds	28
Item 6. Exhibits	29
SIGNATURES	30
EX-31.1
EX-31.2
EX-32
EX-101 INSTANCE DOCUMENT
EX-101 SCHEMA DOCUMENT
EX-101 CALCULATION LINKBASE DOCUMENT
EX-101 LABELS LINKBASE DOCUMENT
EX-101 PRESENTATION LINKBASE DOCUMENT
EX-101 DEFINITION LINKBASE DOCUMENT

2

PART I — FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Financial Statements

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

	March 31,		December 31,
	2023		2022
	(Unaudited)		(Note)
	(In thousands)
Assets
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	27,254	$	36,802
Short-term investments		10,210		10,123
Accounts receivable, net		14,282		17,440
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		2,880		2,479
Barter transactions		1,165		1,015
Total current assets		55,791		67,859
Property and equipment		147,151		146,054
Less accumulated depreciation		93,838		92,856
Net property and equipment		53,313		53,198
Other assets:
Broadcast licenses, net		90,240		90,307
Goodwill		19,236		19,236
Other intangibles, right of use assets, deferred costs and investments, net		9,959		10,153
Total assets	$	228,539	$	240,753
Liabilities and shareholders’ equity
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	$	2,888	$	2,654
Accrued payroll and payroll taxes		5,014		5,623
Dividend payable		1,531		13,754
Other accrued expenses		6,934		6,359
Barter transactions		1,090		987
Total current liabilities		17,457		29,377
Deferred income taxes		25,807		25,737
Other liabilities		6,856		7,110
Total liabilities		50,120		62,224
Commitments and contingencies		—		—
Shareholders’ equity:
Common Stock		78		78
Additional paid-in capital		71,724		71,664
Retained earnings		143,285		143,896
Treasury stock		(36,668)		(37,109)
Total shareholders’ equity		178,419		178,529
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$	228,539	$	240,753

Note: The balance sheet at December 31, 2022 has been derived from the audited financial statements at that date but does not include all of the information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States for complete financial statements.

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

3

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

	Three Months Ended
	March 31,
	2023		2022
	(Unaudited)
	(In thousands, except per share data)
Net operating revenue	$	25,304	$	24,967
Station operating expenses		21,703		20,568
Corporate general and administrative		2,616		2,694
Other operating (income) expense, net		80		(5)
Operating income		905		1,710
Interest expense		43		32
Interest income		(289)		(4)
Other income		(119)		(2)
Income before income tax expense		1,270		1,684
Income tax expense		350		480
Net income	$	920	$	1,204
Earnings per share:
Basic	$	0.15	$	0.20
Diluted	$	0.15	$	0.20
Weighted average common shares		6,028		5,948
Weighted average common and common equivalent shares		6,028		5,948
Dividends declared per share	$	0.25	$	0.16

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

4

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

For the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022

	Class A			Class B			Additional						Total
	Common Stock			Common Stock			Paid-In		Retained		Treasury		Stockholders’
	Shares	Amount		Shares	Amount		Capital		Earnings		Stock		Equity
	(Unaudited) (In thousands)
Balance at December 31, 2021	6,835	$	68	965	$	9	$	70,035	$	164,246	$	(37,439)	$	196,919
Net income, three months ended March 31, 2022	—		—	—		—		—		1,204		—		1,204
Dividends declared per common share	—		—	—		—		—		(968)		—		(968)
Compensation expense related to restricted stock awards	—		—	—		—		339		—		—		339
401(k) plan contribution	—		—	—		—		(229)		—		477		248
Balance at March 31, 2022	6,835	$	68	965	$	9	$	70,145	$	164,482	$	(36,962)	$	197,742

	Class A			Class B			Additional						Total
	Common Stock			Common Stock			Paid-In		Retained		Treasury		Stockholders’
	Shares	Amount		Shares	Amount		Capital		Earnings		Stock		Equity
	(Unaudited) (In thousands)
Balance at December 31, 2022	7,867	$	78	—	$	—	$	71,664	$	143,896	$	(37,109)	$	178,529
Net income, three months ended March 31, 2023	—		—	—		—		—		920		—		920
Dividends declared per common share	—		—	—		—		—		(1,531)		—		(1,531)
Compensation expense related to restricted stock awards	—		—	—		—		245		—		—		245
401(k) plan contribution	—		—	—		—		(185)		—		441		256
Balance at March 31, 2023	7,867	$	78	—	$	—	$	71,724	$	143,285	$	(36,668)	$	178,419

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

5

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

	March 31,
	2023		2022
	(Unaudited)
	(In thousands)
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net cash provided by operating activities	$	4,835	$	5,296
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchase of short-term investments		(2,067)		—
Redemption of short-term investments		2,067		—
Acquisition of property and equipment		(1,362)		(923)
Proceeds from sale and disposal of assets		616		7
Other investing activities		117		(5)
Net cash used in investing activities		(629)		(921)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Cash dividends paid		(13,754)		(3,988)
Net cash used in financing activities		(13,754)		(3,988)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents		(9,548)		387
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period		36,802		54,760
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$	27,254	$	55,147

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

6

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States for annual financial statements.

In our opinion, the accompanying financial statements include all adjustments of a normal, recurring nature considered necessary for a fair presentation of our financial position as of March 31, 2023 and the results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022. Results of operations for three months ended March 31, 2023 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2023.

We own or operate broadcast properties in 27 markets, including 79 FM and 33 AM radio stations and 80 metro signals.

For further information, refer to the consolidated financial statements and footnotes thereto included in the Saga Communications, Inc. annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022.

We have evaluated events and transactions occurring subsequent to the balance sheet date of March 31, 2023, for items that should potentially be recognized in these financial statements or discussed within the notes to these financial statements.

Earnings Per Share Information

Earnings per share is calculated using the two-class method. The two-class method is an earnings allocation formula that determines earnings per share for each class of common stock and participating security. The Company has participating securities related to restricted stock units, granted under the Company’s Second Amended and Restated 2005 Incentive Compensation Plan, that earn dividends on an equal basis with common shares. In applying the two-class method, earnings are allocated to both common shares and participating securities.

7

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share:

	Three Months Ended
	March 31,
	2023		2022
Numerator:
Net income	$	920	$	1,204
Less: Income allocated to unvested participating securities		14		20
Net income available to common shareholders	$	906	$	1,184
Denominator:
Denominator for basic earnings per share — weighted average shares		6,028		5,948
Effect of dilutive securities:
Common stock equivalents		—		—
Denominator for diluted earnings per share — adjusted weighted-average shares and assumed conversions		6,028		5,948
Earnings per share:
Basic	$	0.15	$	0.20
Diluted	$	0.15	$	0.20

There were no stock options outstanding that had an antidilutive effect on our earnings per share calculation for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The actual effect of these shares, if any, on the diluted earnings per share calculation will vary significantly depending on the fluctuation in the stock price.

Financial Instruments

We account for marketable securities in accordance with ASC 320, “Investments – Debt Securities,” which require that certain debt securities be classified into one of three categories: held-to-maturity, available-for-sale, or trading securities, and depending upon the classification, value the security at amortized cost or fair market value. At March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, we have recorded $10.2 million and $10.1 million, respectively, of held-to-maturity U.S. Treasury Bills at amortized cost basis that have a fair market value of $10.2 million and $10 million, respectively. Our held-to-maturity U.S. Treasury Bills currently all have original maturity dates ranging from April 2023 to August 2023.

Our financial instruments are comprised of cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, accounts receivable, accounts payable and long-term debt. The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable approximate fair value due to their short maturities. The carrying value of long-term debt approximates fair value as it carries interest rates that either fluctuate with the euro-dollar rate, prime rate or have been reset at the prevailing market rate at March 31, 2023.

8

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

A provision for doubtful accounts is recorded based on our judgment of collectability of receivables. Amounts are written off when determined to be fully uncollectible. Delinquent accounts are based on contractual terms. We maintain a specific allowance for estimated losses resulting from the inability of certain customers to make required payments. We also consider factors external to the specific customer, including current conditions and forecasts of economic conditions, including the potential impact of uncertain economic conditions. In the event we recover amounts previously written off, we will reduce the specific allowance for credit loss. Our allowance for doubtful accounts was $526,000 and $519,000 at March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively.

Income Taxes

Our effective tax rate is higher than the federal statutory rate as a result of the inclusion of state taxes in the income tax amount and permanent differences related to the compensation of our CEO. We have historically calculated the provision for income taxes during interim reporting periods by applying an estimate of the annual effective tax rate for the full fiscal year to “ordinary” income or loss (pretax income or loss excluding unusual or infrequently occurring discrete items) for the reporting period.

Segments

We serve twenty-seven radio markets (reporting units) that aggregate into one operating segment (Radio), which also qualifies as a reportable segment. We operate under one reportable business segment for which segment disclosure is consistent with the management decision-making process that determines the allocation of resources and the measuring of performance. The Chief Operating Decision Maker (“CODM”) evaluates the results of the radio operating segment and makes operating and capital investment decisions based at the Company level. Furthermore, technological enhancements and system integration decisions are reached at the Company level and applied to all markets rather than to specific or individual markets to ensure that each market has the same tools and opportunities as every other market. Managers at the market level do not report to the CODM and instead report to other senior management, who are responsible for the operational oversight of radio markets and for communication of results to the CODM. We continually review our operating segment classification to align with operational changes in our business and may make changes as necessary.

Time Brokerage Agreements/Local Marketing Agreements

We have entered into Time Brokerage Agreements (“TBAs”) or Local Marketing Agreements (“LMAs”) in certain markets. In a typical TBA/LMA, the FCC licensee of a station makes available, for a fee, blocks of air time on its station to another party that supplies programming to be broadcast during that air time and sells their own commercial advertising announcements during the time periods specified. Revenue and expenses related to TBAs/LMAs are included in the accompanying unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income. Assets and liabilities related to the TBAs/LMAs are included in the accompanying unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

2. Recent Accounting Pronouncements

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

Management has considered all recent accounting pronouncements issued. The Company’s management believes that these recent pronouncements will not have a material effect on the Company’s financial statements.

9

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

3. Revenue

Nature of goods and services

The following is a description of principal activities from which we generate our revenue:

Broadcast Advertising Revenue

Our primary source of revenue is from the sale of advertising for broadcast on our stations. We recognize revenue from the sale of advertising as performance obligations are satisfied upon airing of the advertising; therefore, revenue is recognized at a point in time when each advertising spot is transmitted. Agency commissions are calculated based on a stated percentage applied to gross billing revenue for our advertising inventory placed by an agency and are reported as a reduction of advertising revenue.

Digital Advertising Revenue

We recognize revenue from our digital initiatives across multiple platforms such as targeted digital advertising, online promotions, advertising on our websites and online streams, mobile messaging, email marketing and other e-commerce. Revenue is recorded when each specific performance obligation in the digital advertising campaign takes place, typically within a one month period.

Other Revenue

Other revenue includes revenue from concerts, promotional events, tower rent and other miscellaneous items. Revenue is generally recognized when the event is completed, as the promotional events are completed or as each performance obligation is satisfied.

Disaggregation of Revenue

Revenues from contracts with customers comprised the following for three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022:

	Three Months Ended
	March 31,
	2023		2022
	(in thousands)
Types of Revenue
Broadcast Advertising Revenue, net	$	21,468	$	21,587
Digital Advertising Revenue		1,910		1,749
Other Revenue		1,926		1,631
Net Revenue	$	25,304	$	24,967

Contract Liabilities

Payments from our advertisers are generally due within 30 days although certain advertisers are required to pay in advance. When an advertiser pays for the services in advance of the performance obligations these prepayments are recorded as contract liabilities. Typical contract liabilities relate to prepayments for advertising spots not yet run; prepayments from sponsors for events that have not yet been held; and gift cards sold on our websites used to finance a broadcast advertising campaign. Generally all contract liabilities are expected to be recognized within one year and are included in accounts payable in the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and are immaterial.

10

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

Transaction Price Allocated to the Remaining Performance Obligations

As the majority of our sales contracts are one year or less, we have utilized the optional exemption under ASC 606-10-50-14 and will not disclose information about the remaining performance obligations for sales contracts which have original expected durations of one year or less.

4. Broadcast Licenses, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

We evaluate our FCC licenses for impairment annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired. We operate our broadcast licenses in each market as a single asset and determine the fair value by relying on a discounted cash flow approach assuming a start-up scenario in which the only assets held by an investor are broadcast licenses. The fair value calculation contains assumptions incorporating variables that are based on past experiences and judgments about future operating performance using industry normalized information for an average station within a market. These variables include, but are not limited to: (1) the forecasted growth rate of each radio market, including population, household income, retail sales and other expenditures that would influence advertising expenditures; (2) the estimated available advertising revenue within the market and the related market share and profit margin of an average station within a market; (3) estimated capital start-up costs and losses incurred during the early years; (4) risk-adjusted discount rate; (5) the likely media competition within the market area; and (6) terminal values. If the carrying amount of FCC licenses is greater than their estimated fair value in a given market, the carrying amount of FCC licenses in that market is reduced to its estimated fair value.

We also evaluate goodwill for impairment annually, or more frequently if certain circumstances are present. If the carrying amount of goodwill in a reporting unit is greater than the implied value of goodwill determined by completing a hypothetical purchase price allocation using estimated fair value of the reporting unit, the carrying amount of goodwill in that reporting unit is reduced to its implied value.

We evaluate amortizable intangible assets for recoverability when circumstances indicate impairment may have occurred, using an undiscounted cash flow methodology. If the future undiscounted cash flows for the intangible asset are less than net book value, then the net book value is reduced to the estimated fair value. Amortizable intangible assets are included in other intangibles, deferred costs and investments in the consolidated balance sheets.

The Company considered the current and expected future economic and market conditions, and other potential indicators of impairment and determined a triggering event had not occurred which would necessitate any interim impairment tests during the three months ended March 31, 2023. We will continue to monitor changes in economic and market conditions, and if any event or circumstances indicate a triggering event has occurred, we will perform an interim impairment test of our intangible assets at the appropriate time.

If actual market conditions are less favorable than those estimated by us or if events occur or circumstances change that would reduce the fair value of our broadcast licenses below the carrying value, we may be required to recognize impairment charges in future periods. Such a charge could have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.

Intangible assets that have finite lives are amortized over their useful lives using the straight-line method. Favorable lease agreements are amortized over the lives of the leases ranging from five to twenty-six years. Other intangibles are amortized over one to fifteen years. Customer relationships are amortized over three years.

11

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

5. Common Stock and Treasury Stock

Our founder, Chairman, President and CEO, Edward K. Christian, passed away on August 19, 2022. As of the date of his passing, Mr. Christian, who was also our principal shareholder, held approximately 65% of the combined voting power of the Company’s Common Stock based on Class B Common Stock (together with the Class A Common Stock, collectively, the “Common Stock”) generally being entitled to ten votes per share. As a result, Mr. Christian was generally able to control the vote on most matters submitted to the vote of stockholders and, therefore, was able to direct our management and policies, except with respect to (i) the election of two Class A directors, (ii) those matters where the shares of our Class B Common Stock are only entitled to one vote per share, and (iii) other matters requiring a class vote under the provisions of our certificate of incorporation, bylaws or applicable law. Mr. Christian’s passing resulted in the conversion of his Class B shares into Class A shares that were transferred to an estate planning trust that now owns approximately 16% of the common stock outstanding. As a result, we no longer have any shares of Class B Common Stock issued or outstanding.

Dividends.  Shareholders are entitled to receive such dividends as may be declared by our Board of Directors out of funds legally available for such purpose. However, no dividend may be declared or paid in cash or property on any share of any class of Common Stock unless simultaneously the same dividend is declared or paid on each share of the other class of common stock. In the case of any stock dividend, holders of Class A Common Stock are entitled to receive the same percentage dividend (payable in shares of Class A Common Stock) as the holders of Class B Common Stock receive (payable in shares of Class B Common Stock).

Voting Rights.  Holders of shares of Common Stock vote as a single class on all matters submitted to a vote of the stockholders, with each share of Class A Common Stock entitled to one vote. Prior to Mr. Christian’s passing, each share of Class B Common Stock was entitled to ten votes, except (i) in the election for directors, (ii) with respect to any “going private” transaction between the Company and the principal stockholder, and (iii) as otherwise provided by law.

Prior to Mr. Christian’s passing, in the election of directors, the holders of Class A Common Stock, voting as a separate class, were entitled to elect twenty-five percent, or two, of our directors. The holders of the Common Stock, voting as a single class with each share of Class A Common Stock entitled to one vote and each share of Class B Common Stock entitled to ten votes, were entitled to elect the remaining directors. The Board of Directors consisted of eight members at December 31, 2022. Currently, our Board of Directors consists of eight members. Holders of Common Stock are not entitled to cumulative voting in the election of directors.

The holders of the Common Stock vote as a single class with respect to any proposed “going private” transaction with the principal stockholder or an affiliate of the principal stockholder, with each share of each class of Common Stock entitled to one vote per share.

Under Florida law, the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of any class of common stock is required to approve, among other things, a change in the designations, preferences and limitations of the shares of such class of common stock.

Liquidation Rights.  Upon our liquidation, dissolution, or winding-up, the holders of Class A Common Stock are entitled to share ratably in accordance with the number of shares held in all assets available for distribution after payment in full of creditors.

12

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

The following summarizes information relating to the number of shares of our common stock issued in connection with stock transactions through March 31, 2023:

	Common Stock Issued
	Class A	Class B
	(Shares in thousands)
Balance, January 1, 2022	6,835	965
Conversion of shares	965	(965)
Issuance of restricted stock	67	—
Balance, December 31, 2022	7,867	—
Balance, March 31, 2023	7,867	—

We have a Stock Buy-Back Program to allow us to purchase up to $75.8 million of our Class A Common Stock. As of March 31, 2023, we have remaining authorization of $18.2 million for future repurchases of our Class A Common Stock. On September 14, 2017, the Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of our Class A Common Stock under our trading plan adopted pursuant to Securities and Exchange Commission Rule 10b5-1. The Rule 10b5-1 repurchase plan allows us to repurchase our shares during periods when we would normally not be active in the market due to our internal trading blackout periods. Under the plan, we may repurchase our Class A Common Stock in any combination of open market, block transactions and privately negotiated transactions subject to market conditions, legal requirements including applicable SEC regulations (which include certain price, market, volume and timing constraints), specific repurchase instructions and other corporate considerations. Purchases under the plan are funded by cash on our balance sheet. The plan does not obligate us to acquire any particular amount of Class A Common Stock. Our original purchase authorization was effective until September 1, 2018 and has been extended several times, with the most recent authorization instructions extension being through May 28, 2020. We halted the directions for any additional buybacks under our plan in 2020. We continue to monitor economic conditions to determine if and when it makes sense to make additional buybacks under our plan. During the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, no shares were repurchased under the Stock Buy-Back Program.

6. Leases

We lease certain land, buildings and equipment for use in our operations. We recognize lease expense for these leases on a straight-line basis over the lease term and combine lease and non-lease components for all leases. Right-of-use (“ROU”) assets and lease liabilities are recorded on the balance sheet for all leases with an expected term of at least one year. Some leases include one or more options to renew. The exercise of lease renewal options is generally at our discretion. The depreciable lives of ROU assets are limited to the expected lease term. Our lease agreements do not contain any residual value guarantees or material restrictive covenants. As of March 31, 2023, we do not have any non-cancellable operating lease commitments that have not yet commenced.

ROU assets are classified within other intangibles, deferred costs and investments, net on the condensed consolidated balance sheet while current lease liabilities are classified within other accrued expenses and long-term lease liabilities are classified within other liabilities. Leases with an initial term of 12 months or less are not recorded on the balance sheet. ROU assets were $6.2 million and $6.5 million at March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022 respectively. Lease liabilities were $6.4 million and $6.8 million at March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively. During the three months ended March 31, 2023, we recorded additional ROU assets under operating leases of $255,000. Payments on lease liabilities during the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022 totaled $526,000, and $478,000, respectively.

Lease expense includes cost for leases with terms in excess of one year. For the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, our total lease expense was $460,000, and $444,000, respectively. Short-term lease costs are de minimis in nature.

13

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

We have no financing leases and minimum annual rental commitments under non-cancellable operating leases consisted of the following at March 31, 2023 (in thousands):

Years Ending December 31,
2023 (a)	$	1,295
2024		1,706
2025		1,312
2026		1,081
2027		880
Thereafter		1,282
Total lease payments (b)		7,556
Less: Interest (c)		1,108
Present value of lease liabilities (d)	$	6,448

(a) Remaining payments are for the nine-months ending December 31, 2023

(b) Lease payments include options to extend lease terms that are reasonably certain of being exercised. There were no legally binding minimum lease payments for leases signed but not yet commenced at March 31, 2023.

(c) Our leases do not provide a readily determinable implicit rate. Therefore, we must estimate our discount rate for such leases to determine the present value of lease payments at the lease commencement date.

(d) The weighted average remaining lease term and weighted average discount rate used in calculating our lease liabilities were 6.1 years and 4.8%, respectively, at March 31, 2023.

7. Acquisitions and Dispositions

We actively seek and explore opportunities for expansion through the acquisition of additional broadcast properties. The consolidated statements of income include the operating results of the acquired stations from their respective dates of acquisition. All acquisitions were accounted for as purchases and, accordingly, the total purchase consideration was allocated to the acquired assets and assumed liabilities based on their estimated fair values as of the acquisition dates. The excess of the consideration paid over the estimated fair value of net assets acquired have been recorded as goodwill. The Company accounts for acquisitions under the provisions of FASB ASC Topic 805, Business Combinations.

Management assigned fair values to the acquired property and equipment through a combination of cost and market approaches based upon each specific asset’s replacement cost, with a provision for depreciation, and to the acquired intangibles, primarily an FCC license, based on the Greenfield valuation methodology, a discounted cash flow approach.

2023 Dispositions

On February 28, 2023, we closed on an agreement to sell WPVQ-AM located in our Greenfield, Massachusetts market to Hampden Communications Corp for $2,000. We recorded a $43,000 loss on the sale in our other operating (income) expense, net line item on our Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations.

On March 20, 2023, we submitted a request to the FCC to cancel our FCC license for WHMQ-AM located in our Greenfield, Massachusetts market. We recorded a $22,000 loss on the disposal in our other operating (income) expense, net line item on our Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations.

14

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

2022 Acquisitions

On July 12, 2021, we entered into an agreement to acquire WIZZ-AM and a translator from P. & M. Radio for $61,800 of which $5,000 was paid in 2021 and the remainder was paid on April 6, 2022 when we closed on the transaction. Management attributes the goodwill recognized in the acquisition to the power of the existing brands in the Greenfield, Massachusetts market as well as synergies and growth opportunities expected through the combination with the Company’s existing stations. The translators are start-up stations and therefore, have no pro forma revenue and expenses.

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet of 2023 and 2022 Acquisitions:

The following unaudited condensed balance sheets represent the estimated fair value assigned to the related assets and liabilities of the 2023 and 2022 acquisitions.

Saga Communications, Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet of 2023 and 2022 Acquisitions

	Acquisitions in
	2023		2022
	(In thousands)
Assets Acquired:
Property and equipment	$	—	$	5
Other assets:
Broadcast licenses		—		30
Goodwill		—		27
Total other assets		—		57
Total assets acquired		—		62
Liabilities Assumed:
Current liabilities		—		—
Total liabilities assumed		—		—
Net assets acquired	$	—	$	62

8. Income taxes

On March 18, 2020, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act ("FFCR Act"), and on March 27, 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act ("CARES Act") were each enacted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The FFCR Act and the CARES Act contain numerous tax provisions, such as deferring payroll payments, establishing a credit for the retention of certain employees, relaxing limitations on the deductibility of interest, and updating the definition of qualified improvement property. This legislation currently has no material impact to the Company’s financial statements.

An income tax expense of $350,000 was recorded for the three months ended March 31, 2023 compared to $480,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2022. The effective tax rate was approximately 27.6% for the three months ended March 31, 2023 compared to 28.5% for the three months ended March 31, 2022. Income tax provisions for interim (quarterly) periods are based on estimated annual income tax rates and are adjusted for the effects of significant, infrequent or unusual items (i.e. discrete items) occurring during the interim period.

15

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

9. Stock-Based Compensation

Incentive Compensation Plans

On May 13, 2019 our shareholders approved an amendment to the Second Amended and Restated Saga Communications, Inc. 2005 Incentive Compensation Plan (as amended, the “Second Restated 2005 Plan”). This plan was first approved in 2005, and subsequently re-approved in 2010 and 2013. The amendment to the Second Restated 2005 Plan (i) extended the date for making awards to September 6, 2023 and (ii) increased the number of authorized shares under the Plan by 90,000 shares of Class B Common Stock. The Second Restated 2005 Plan allows for the granting of restricted stock, restricted stock units, incentive stock options, nonqualified stock options, and performance awards to eligible employees and non-employee directors.

The number of shares of Common Stock that may be issued under the Second Restated 2005 Plan may not exceed 370,000 shares of Class B Common Stock, or 990,000 shares of Class A Common Stock of which up to 620,000 shares of Class A Common Stock may be issued pursuant to incentive stock options and 370,000 shares of Class A Common Stock may be issuable upon conversion of Class B Common Stock. Awards denominated in Class A Common Stock may be granted to any employee or director under the Second Restated 2005 Plan. Upon the passing of Mr. Christian, we no longer have any holders of Class B Common Stock, as those awards denominated in Class B Common Stock were only able to be granted to Mr. Christian. Stock options granted under the Second Restated 2005 Plan may be for terms not exceeding ten (10) years from the date of grant and may not be exercised at a price which is less than 100% of the fair market value of shares at the date of grant.

On March 1, 2023, our Board of Directors approved the Saga Communications, Inc. 2023 Incentive Compensation Plan. At our Annual Meeting on May 8, 2023 this plan was approved by our shareholders.

Stock-Based Compensation

All stock options granted were fully vested and expensed at December 31, 2012; therefore, there was no compensation expense related to stock options for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

There were no stock options granted during 2023 or 2022 and there were no stock options outstanding as of March 31, 2023. All outstanding stock options were exercised in 2017.

The following summarizes the restricted stock transactions for the three months ended March 31, 2023:

		Weighted
		Average
		Grant Date
		Fair
	Shares	Value
Outstanding at January 1, 2023	91,120	$	27.15
Vested	—		—
Forfeited	—		—
Non-vested and outstanding at March 31, 2023	91,120	$	27.15

16

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

For the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, we had $245,000 and $339,000, respectively, of total compensation expense related to restricted stock-based compensation arrangements. This expense is included in corporate general and administrative expenses in our results of operations. The associated tax benefit recognized for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022 was $64,000, and $37,000, respectively.

10. Long-Term Debt

The Company has no debt outstanding at December 31, 2022 or March 31, 2023.

On December 19, 2022, we entered into a Third Amendment to our Credit Facility, (the “Third Amendment”), which extended the maturity date to December 19, 2027, reduced the lenders to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., and the Huntington National Bank (the “Lenders”), established an interest rate equal to the secured overnight financing rate (“SOFR”) as administered by the SOFR Administrator (currently established as the Federal Reserve Bank of New York) as the interest base and increased the basis points.

We have pledged substantially all of our assets (excluding our FCC licenses and certain other assets) in support of the Credit Facility and each of our subsidiaries has guaranteed the Credit Facility and has pledged substantially all of their assets (excluding their FCC licenses and certain other assets) in support of the Credit Facility.

Approximately $266,000 of debt issuance costs related to the Credit Facility were capitalized and are being amortized over the life of the Credit Facility. These debt issuance costs are included in other assets, net in the consolidated balance sheets. As a result of the Second Amendment to our Credit Facility (the “Second Amendment”), the Company incurred an additional $120,000 of transaction fees related to the Credit Facility that were capitalized. As a result of the Third Amendment, the Company incurred an additional $161,000 of transaction fees related to the Credit Facility that were capitalized. The cumulative transaction fees are being amortized over the remaining life of the Credit Facility.

Interest rates under the Credit Facility are payable, at our option, at alternatives equal to SOFR (4.870% at March 31, 2023), plus 1% to 2% or the base rate plus 0% to 1%. The spread over SOFR and the base rate vary from time to time, depending upon our financial leverage. Letters of credit issued under the Credit Facility will be subject to a participation fee (which is equal to the interest rate applicable to Eurocurrency Loans, as defined in the Credit Agreement) payable to each of the Lenders and a fronting fee equal to 0.25% per annum payable to the issuing bank. Under the Third Amendment, we now pay quarterly commitment fees of 0.25% per annum on the unused portion of the Credit Facility. We previously paid quarterly commitment fees of 0.2% to 0.3% per annum on the unused portion of the Revolving Credit Facility.

The Credit Facility contains a number of financial covenants (all of which we were in compliance with at March 31, 2023) which, among other things, require us to maintain specified financial ratios and impose certain limitations on us with respect to investments, additional indebtedness, dividends, distributions, guarantees, liens and encumbrances.

We have approximately $50 million of unused borrowing capacity under the Revolving Credit Facility at both March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022.

11. Litigation

From time to time, the Company may be involved in various legal proceedings that are incidental to the Company’s business. In management’s opinion, the Company is not a party to any current legal proceedings that are material to its financial condition, either individually or in the aggregate.

17

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

12. Dividends

Subsequent to the quarter ending March 31, 2023, on May 9, 2023, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.25 per share on its Class A Common Stock. This dividend, totaling approximately $1,500,000 will be paid on June 16, 2023 to shareholders of record on May 22, 2023.

On March 1, 2023, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.25 per share on its Class A Common Stock. This dividend, totaling approximately $1,500,000, was paid on April 7, 2023 to shareholders of record on March 20, 2023 and is recorded in dividends payables in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet at March 31, 2023.

On December 7, 2022, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.25 per share and a special cash dividend of $2.00 per share on its Class A Common Stock. This dividend, totaling approximately $13,800,000, was paid on January 13, 2023 to shareholders of record on December 21, 2022 and is recorded in dividends payable in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 2022.

On September 20, 2022, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.25 per share and special cash dividend of $2.00 per share on its Class A Common Stock. This dividend, totaling approximately $13,600,000, was paid on October 21, 2022 to shareholders of record on October 3, 2022.

On June 6, 2022, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.20 per share on its Classes A and B Common Stock. This dividend, totaling approximately $1,200,000, was paid to our transfer agent on June 29, 2022. The dividend was paid by our transfer agent on July 1, 2022 to shareholders of record on June 13, 2022.

On March 1, 2022, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.16 per share on its Classes A and B Common Stock. This dividend, totaling approximately $970,000, was paid on April 8, 2022 to shareholders of record on March 21, 2022.

13. Other Income

During the first quarter of 2022, there was fire damage to a transmission line in our Des Moines, Iowa market. The Company’s insurance policy provided coverage for removal and replacement of the transmission line and related equipment. As part of the insurance settlement during the fourth quarter of 2022, the Company received cash proceeds of $445,000, resulting in a gain of $445,000 which is recorded in the other (income) expense, net, in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Income in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022.  

18

SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

In 2012, Congress mandated that the FCC conduct an incentive auction of broadcast television spectrum as set forth in the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 ("Spectrum Act"). The Spectrum Act authorized the FCC to conduct incentive auctions in which licensees could voluntarily relinquish their spectrum usage rights in order to permit the assignment by auction of new initial licenses subject to flexible use service rules, in exchange for a portion of the resulting auction proceeds. The Spectrum Act appropriated $1.75 billion to the TV Broadcaster Relocation Fund ("Reimbursement Fund") for costs reasonably incurred by Full Power and Class A broadcast television licensees reassigned to new channels ("repack"), as well as Multichannel Video Programming Distributors ("MVPDs") that incurred costs related to continuing to carry the signals of reassigned broadcast stations. The 2018 Reimbursement Expansion Act, appropriated $1 billion in additional funds for the Reimbursement Fund and expanded eligible entities for reimbursement to include FM stations affected by the repack. During 2022, the Company received approximately $116,000 in reimbursement for our FM stations, which is recorded in the other (income), expense, net, in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Income in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022. During the first quarter of 2023, we received approximately $115,000 in reimbursement for our FM stations, which is recorded in other (income), expense, net, in the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations. We do not anticipate receiving any additional reimbursements related to this.

14. Commitments and Contingencies

As previously disclosed Mr. Christian passed away on August 19, 2022. As a result of his passing the Company was required to make several payments to his estate as outlined in his employment agreement, as described in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022. In accordance with ASC 712-10-25, Nonretirement Postemployment Benefits, we accrued all necessary expenses as of September 30, 2022. However, under the agreement, the Company will be responsible to pay the estate’s income tax obligation relating to the payout of the life insurance policy. The estimate of the possible loss related to that tax obligation cannot be made at this time due to uncertainties related to the timing of the transfer.

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Forward-Looking Statements

This report contains forward-looking statements that are based on management’s beliefs, assumptions, current expectations, estimates and projections about the radio broadcasting industry, the economy, and the Company. Words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “expects,” “intends,” “is likely,” “plans,” “projects,” and variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions (“Future Factors”) that are difficult to predict with regard to timing, extent, likelihood and degree of occurrence. Therefore, actual results and outcomes may materially differ from what may be expressed or forecasted in such forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to update, amend, or clarify forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events (whether anticipated or unanticipated), or otherwise.

Future Factors include, among others, adverse changes in interest rates and interest rate relationships; our financial leverage and debt service requirements; dependence on key personnel; dependence on key stations; U.S. national and local economic conditions or an economic recession; market volatility; demand for our services; the degree of competition by traditional and non-traditional competitors; our ability to successfully integrate acquired stations; regulatory requirements; governmental and regulatory policy changes; changes in tax laws; the impact of technological advances; risks associated with cyber-attacks on our computer systems and those of our vendors; the outcomes of contingencies; trends in audience behavior; damage to our reputation resulting from adverse publicity, regulatory actions, litigation, operational failures, the failure to meet client or listener expectations and other facts; changes in local real estate values; natural disasters; terrorist attacks; the war in Ukraine, the effects of widespread outbreak of illness or disease, inflation; increased energy costs; and risk factors described in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022 or in this Report. These are representative of the Future Factors that could cause a difference between an ultimate actual outcome and a forward-looking statement.

Introduction

The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes thereto of Saga Communications, Inc. and its subsidiaries contained elsewhere herein and the audited financial statements and Management’s Discussion and Analysis contained in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022. The following discussion is presented on a consolidated basis.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

Our consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (GAAP), which require us to make estimates, judgments and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of certain assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses and related disclosures and contingencies. We evaluate estimates used in preparation of our financial statements on a continual basis. There have been no significant changes to our critical accounting policies that are described in Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Critical Accounting Policies” in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022.

We use certain financial measures that are not calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (GAAP) to assess our financial performance. For example, we evaluate the performance of our markets based on “station operating income” (operating income plus corporate general and administrative expenses, depreciation and amortization, other operating (income) expenses, and impairment of intangible assets). Station operating income is generally recognized by the broadcasting industry as a measure of performance, is used by analysts who report on the performance of the broadcasting industry and serves as an indicator of the market value of a group of stations. In addition, we use it to evaluate individual stations, market-level performance, overall operations and as a primary measure for incentive based compensation of executives and other members of management. Station operating income is not necessarily indicative of amounts that may be available to us for debt service requirements, other commitments, reinvestment or other discretionary uses. Station operating income is not a measure of liquidity or of performance in accordance with GAAP, and should be viewed as a supplement to, and not a substitute for our results of operations presented on a GAAP basis.

20

Financial Condition and Results of Operations

General

We are a broadcast company primarily engaged in acquiring, developing and operating broadcast properties. We actively seek and explore opportunities for expansion through the acquisition of additional broadcast properties. We review acquisition opportunities on an ongoing basis. For additional information with respect to acquisitions, see “Liquidity and Capital Resources” below. We own or operate broadcast properties in 27 markets, including 79 FM and 33 AM radio stations and 80 metro signals.

We anticipate our corporate general and administrative expense to decrease from 2022 significantly because of approximately $3.8 million in expenses incurred related to the passing our of CEO, Edward Christian and payments required as a result of his death. This reduction will be offset, however, by an increase in directors’ fees of $312,000 and by investments we anticipate making in corporate personnel, and sales and training initiatives.

Radio Stations

Our radio stations’ primary source of revenue is from the sale of advertising for broadcast on our stations. Depending on the format of a particular radio station, there are a predetermined number of advertisements available to be broadcast each hour.

Most advertising contracts are short-term and generally run for a few weeks only. The majority of our revenue is generated from local advertising, which is sold primarily by each radio market’s sales staff. For the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, approximately 90% and 91%, respectively, of our radio stations’ gross revenue was from local advertising. To generate national advertising sales, we engage independent advertising sales representative firms that specialize in national sales for each of our broadcast markets.

Our revenue varies throughout the year. Advertising expenditures, our primary source of revenue, generally have been lowest during the winter months, which include the first quarter of each year. Furthermore, we expect political revenue in 2023 to decrease from 2022 levels as a result of less elections at the national, state and local levels.

Our net operating revenue, station operating expense and operating income varies from market to market based upon each market’s rank or size which is based upon population and the available radio advertising revenue in that particular market.

The broadcasting industry and advertising in general, is influenced by the state of the overall economy, including unemployment rates, inflation, energy prices and consumer interest rates. Our stations primarily broadcast in small to midsize markets. Historically, such markets have been more stable than major metropolitan markets during downturns in advertising spending, but may not experience increases in such spending as significant as those in major metropolitan markets in periods of economic improvement.

Our financial results are dependent on a number of factors, the most significant of which is our ability to generate advertising revenue through rates charged to advertisers. The rates a station is able to charge are, in large part, based on a station’s ability to attract audiences in the demographic groups targeted by its advertisers. In a number of our markets, this is measured by periodic reports generated by independent national rating services. In the remainder of our markets it is measured by the results advertisers obtain through the actual running of an advertising schedule. Advertisers measure these results based on increased demand for their goods or services and/or actual revenues generated from such demand. Various factors affect the rate a station can charge, including the general strength of the local and national economies, population growth, ability to provide popular programming, local market competition, target marketing capability of radio compared to other advertising media, and signal strength.

21

When we acquire and/or begin to operate a station or group of stations we generally increase programming and advertising and promotion expenses to increase our share of our target demographic audience. Our strategy sometimes requires levels of spending commensurate with the revenue levels we plan on achieving in two to five years. During periods of economic downturns, or when the level of advertising spending is flat or down across the industry, this strategy may result in the appearance that our cost of operations is increasing at a faster rate than our growth in revenues, until such time as we achieve our targeted levels of revenue for the acquired station or group of stations.

The number of advertisements that can be broadcast without jeopardizing listening levels (and the resulting ratings) is limited in part by the format of a particular radio station. Our stations strive to maximize revenue by constantly managing the number of commercials available for sale and adjusting prices based upon local market conditions and ratings. While there may be shifts from time to time in the number of advertisements broadcast during a particular time of day, the total number of advertisements broadcast on a particular station generally does not vary significantly from year to year. Any change in our revenue, with the exception of those instances where stations are acquired or sold, is generally the result of inventory sell-out ratios and pricing adjustments, which are made to ensure that the station efficiently utilizes available inventory.

Our radio stations employ a variety of programming formats. We periodically perform market research, including music evaluations, focus groups and strategic vulnerability studies. Because reaching a large and demographically attractive audience is crucial to a station’s financial success, we endeavor to develop strong listener loyalty. Our stations also employ audience promotions to further develop and secure a loyal following. We believe that the diversification of formats on our radio stations helps to insulate us from the effects of changes in musical tastes of the public on any particular format.

The primary operating expenses involved in owning and operating radio stations are employee salaries, sales commissions, programming expenses, depreciation, and advertising and promotion expenses.

The radio broadcasting industry is subject to rapid technological change, evolving industry standards and the emergence of new media technologies and services. These new technologies and media are gaining advertising share against radio and other traditional media.

We are continuing to expand our digital initiative to provide a seamless experience across multiple platforms. Our goal is to allow our listeners to connect with our brands on demand, wherever, however and whenever they choose. We continue to create and expand opportunities through targeted digital advertising, online community news, entertainment and events and an array of digital services that include online promotions, mobile messaging, and email marketing.

22

During the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022 and the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, our Columbus, Ohio; Des Moines, Iowa; Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Norfolk, Virginia; and Portland, Maine markets, when combined, represented approximately 37%, 39%, 38% and 39%, respectively, of our consolidated net operating revenue. An adverse change in any of these radio markets or our relative market position in those markets could have a significant impact on our operating results as a whole.

The following table describes the percentage of our consolidated net operating revenue represented by each of these markets:

	Percentage of Consolidated				Percentage of Consolidated
	Net Operating Revenue for				Net Operating Revenue
	the Three Months Ended				for the Years Ended
	March 31,				December 31,
	2023		2022		2022		2021
Market:
Columbus, Ohio	9	%	10	%	10	%	10	%
Des Moines, Iowa	6	%	6	%	5	%	6	%
Milwaukee, Wisconsin	11	%	13	%	12	%	11	%
Norfolk, Virginia	6	%	6	%	6	%	6	%
Portland, Maine	5	%	4	%	5	%	6	%

During the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022 and the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, the radio stations in our five largest markets, when combined, represented approximately 40%, 44%, 44% and 43%, respectively, of our consolidated station operating income. The following table describes the percentage of our consolidated station operating income represented by each of these markets:

	Percentage of Consolidated				Percentage of Consolidated
	Station Operating Income (*)				Station Operating Income(*)
	for the Three Months Ended				for the Years Ended
	March 31,				December 31,
	2023		2022		2022		2021
Market:
Columbus, Ohio	11	%	15	%	13	%	12	%
Des Moines, Iowa	6	%	4	%	4	%	5	%
Milwaukee, Wisconsin	11	%	16	%	14	%	12	%
Norfolk, Virginia	8	%	7	%	7	%	7	%
Portland, Maine	4	%	2	%	6	%	7	%

* Operating income adjusted for corporate general and administrative expenses, depreciation and amortization, other operating (income) expenses, and impairment of intangible assets.

23

Three Months Ended March 31, 2023 Compared to Three Months Ended March 31, 2022

Results of Operations

The following table summarizes our results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022.

	Three Months Ended
	March 31,				$ Increase		% Increase
	2023		2022		(Decrease)		(Decrease)
	(In thousands, except percentages and per share information)
Net operating revenue	$	25,304	$	24,967	$	337	1.3	%
Station operating expenses		21,703		20,568		1,135	5.5	%
Corporate general and administrative		2,616		2,694		(78)	(2.9)	%
Other operating (income) expense, net		80		(5)		85	N/M
Operating income		905		1,710		(805)	(47.1)	%
Interest expense		43		32		11	34.4	%
Interest income		(289)		(4)		(285)	N/M
Other income		(119)		(2)		(117)	N/M
Income before income tax expense		1,270		1,684		(414)	(24.6)	%
Income tax expense		350		480		(130)	(27.1)	%
Net income	$	920	$	1,204	$	(284)	(23.6)	%
Earnings per share (diluted)	$	0.15	$	0.20	$	(0.05)	(25.0)	%

N/M =  Not Meaningful

For the three months ended March 31, 2023, consolidated net operating revenue was $25,304,000 compared with $24,967,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2022, an increase of $337,000 or 1.3%. We had increases in non-spot gross revenue of $243,000, gross interactive revenue of $158,000, gross national revenue of $157,000, gross political revenue of $73,000, and gross other revenue of $51,000 partially offset by a decrease in gross local revenue of $265,000, and an increase in agency commissions of $92,000 for the comparable period of 2022. The markets with the most significant increases in 2023 in non-spot events were Bellingham, Washington; Des Moines, Iowa; Ocala, Florida; and Yankton, South Dakota. The increase in gross interactive revenue is primarily due to an increase in our streaming revenue. The most significant increases in gross national revenue and agency commissions occurred in our Charlottesville, Virginia; Columbus, Ohio; Ocala, Florida; Portland, Maine and Springfield, Massachusetts markets. The gross political revenue increased due to an increase at our Harrisonburg, Virginia and Milwaukee, Wisconsin markets partially offset by decreases at our other markets. We expected a decrease in the number of national, state and local elections, however, both of these markets experienced issue-related political revenue for the first quarter of 2023. The increase in gross other revenue is primarily due to new lease income at our Norfolk, Virginia market. The decrease in gross local revenue was attributable to decreases at our Columbus, Ohio; Ithaca, New York and Milwaukee, Wisconsin markets partially offset by increases at the majority of rest of our markets.

24

Station operating expense was $21,703,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2023, compared with $20,568,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2022, an increase of $1,135,000 or 5.5%. The increase in operating expense was primarily the result of increases in compensation-related expenses, healthcare expenses, utility expenses, programming rights expenses, promotion expenses, credit card sales expenses, sales survey expenses, and sales training expenses, of $472,000, $272,000, $88,000, $80,000, $34,000, $26,000, $25,000 and $24,000, respectively, for the comparable period of 2022.

We had operating income for the three months ended March 31, 2023 of $905,000 compared to $1,710,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2022, a decrease of $805,000. The decrease was a result of the increase in station operating expense, partially offset by an increase in net operating revenue, as noted above, offset by a decrease in corporate general and administrative expenses of $78,000 and an increase in other operating (income) expense of $85,000. The decrease in corporate general and administrative expenses was primarily comprised of a decrease of $306,000 in compensation-related expense partially offset by an increase of $75,000 in directors fees and $90,000 in other consulting fees. For our other operating (income) expense, net in 2023 we recorded a loss on the sale of fixed assets of $80,000 compared to a gain on the sale of fixed assets of $5,000 in 2022.

We generated net income of $920,000 ($0.15 per share on a fully diluted basis) during the three months ended March 31, 2023, compared to $1,204,000 ($0.20 per share on a fully diluted basis) for the three months ended March 31, 2022, a decrease of $284,000. The decrease in net income is primarily due to the decrease in operating income, described above, an increase in interest expense of $11,000, partially offset by an increase in interest income of $285,000, an increase in other income of $117,000 and a decrease in income tax expense of $130,000. The increase in interest expense is due to an increase in interest rates and amortization of bank fees. The increase in interest income is related to higher rates of return on money market accounts reflected as cash equivalents and from our short-term investment accounts which began in May 2022. The increase in other income is due to reimbursements from the FCC related to their spectrum auction of $115,000 described in footnote 13 (Other Income) versus. the minimal other income earned in 2022. The decrease in our income tax expense is due to lower income before income tax expense and a lower effective tax rate as a result of a reduction in non-deductible compensation over the prior period.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Debt Arrangements and Debt Service Requirements

On December 19, 2022, we entered into a Third Amendment to our Credit Facility, (the “Third Amendment”), which extended the maturity date to December 19, 2027, reduced the lenders to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., and the Huntington National Bank (the “Lenders”), established an interest rate equal to the secured overnight financing rate (“SOFR”) as administered by the SOFR Administrator (currently established as the Federal Reserve Bank of New York) as the interest base and increased the basis points.

We have pledged substantially all of our assets (excluding our FCC licenses and certain other assets) in support of the Credit Facility and each of our subsidiaries has guaranteed the Credit Facility and has pledged substantially all of their assets (excluding their FCC licenses and certain other assets) in support of the Credit Facility.

Approximately $266,000 of debt issuance costs related to the Credit Facility were capitalized and are being amortized over the life of the Credit Facility. These debt issuance costs are included in other assets, net in the consolidated balance sheets. As a result of the Second Amendment, the Company incurred an additional $120,000 of transaction fees related to the Credit Facility that were capitalized. As a result of the Third Amendment, the Company incurred an additional $161,000 of transaction fees related to the Credit Facility that were capitalized. The cumulative transaction fees are being amortized over the remaining life of the Credit Facility.

Interest rates under the Credit Facility are payable, at our option, at alternatives equal to SOFR (4.870% at March 31, 2023), plus 1% to 2% or the base rate plus 0% to 1%. The spread over SOFR and the base rate vary from time to time, depending upon our financial leverage. Letters of credit issued under the Credit Facility will be subject to a participation fee (which is equal to the interest rate applicable to Eurocurrency Loans, as defined in the Credit Agreement) payable to each of the Lenders and a fronting fee equal to 0.25% per annum payable to the issuing bank. Under the Third Amendment, we now pay quarterly commitment fees of 0.25% per annum on the used portion of the Credit Facility. We previously paid quarterly commitment fees of 0.2% to 0.3% per annum on the unused portion of the Revolving Credit Facility.

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The Credit Facility contains a number of financial covenants (all of which we were in compliance with at March 31, 2023) which, among other things, require us to maintain specified financial ratios and impose certain limitations on us with respect to investments, additional indebtedness, dividends, distributions, guarantees, liens and encumbrances.

We have no debt outstanding at December 31, 2022 or March 31, 2023.

We have approximately $50 million of unused borrowing capacity under the Revolving Credit Facility at both March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022.

Sources and Uses of Cash

During the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, we had net cash flows from operating activities of $4,835,000 and $5,296,000, respectively. We believe that cash flow from operations will be sufficient to meet quarterly debt service requirements for payments of interest and scheduled payments of principal under our Credit Facility if we borrow in the future. However, if such cash flow is not sufficient we may be required to sell additional equity securities, refinance our obligations or dispose of one or more of our properties in order to make such scheduled payments. There can be no assurance that we would be able to effect any such transactions on favorable terms, if at all.

In March 2013, our board of directors authorized an increase to our Stock Buy-Back Program (the “Buy-Back Program”) to allow us to purchase up to $75.8 million of our Class A Common Stock. From its inception in 1998 through March 31, 2023, we have repurchased 2.2 million shares of our Class A Common Stock for $57.6 million. During the three months ended March 31, 2023, we did not repurchase any shares related to the Buy-Back Program. We halted the directions issued for any additional buybacks under our plan in 2020. We continue to monitor economic conditions to determine if and when it makes sense to make additional buybacks under our plan.

Our capital expenditures, exclusive of acquisitions, for the three months ended March 31, 2023 were $1,362,000 ($923,000 in 2022). We anticipate capital expenditures in 2023 to be approximately $5.0 million to $5.5 million, which we expect to finance through funds generated from operations.

On July 12, 2021, we entered into an agreement to acquire WIZZ-AM and a translator from P. & M. Radio for $61,800 of which $5,000 was paid in 2021 and the remainder was paid on April 6, 2022 when we closed on the transaction. Management attributes the goodwill recognized in the acquisition to the power of the existing brands in the Greenfield, Massachusetts market as well as synergies and growth opportunities expected through the combination with the Company’s existing stations. The translators are start-up stations and therefore have no pro forma revenue and expenses.

Subsequent to the quarter ending March 31, 2023, on May 9, 2023, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.25 per share on its Class A Common Stock. This dividend, totaling approximately $1,500,000 will be paid on June 16, 2023 to shareholders of record on May 22, 2023.

On March 1, 2023, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.25 per share on its Class A Common Stock. This dividend, totaling approximately $1,500,000, was paid on April 7, 2023 to shareholders of record on March 20, 2023 and is recorded in dividends payables in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet at March 31, 2023.

On December 7, 2022, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.25 per share and a special cash dividend of $2.00 per share on its Class A Common Stock. This dividend, totaling approximately $13,800,000, was paid on January 13, 2023 to shareholders of record on December 21, 2022 and is recorded in dividends payable in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 2022.

On September 20, 2022, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.25 per share and a special cash dividend of $2.00 per share on its Class A Common Stock. This dividend, totaling approximately $13,600,000, was paid on October 21, 2022 to shareholders of record on October 3, 2022.

On June 6, 2022, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.20 per share on its Classes A and B Common Stock. This dividend, totaling approximately $1,200,000, was paid to our transfer agent on June 29, 2022. The dividend was paid by our transfer agent on July 1, 2022 to shareholders of record on June 13, 2022.

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On March 1, 2022, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.16 per share on its Classes A and B Common Stock. This dividend, totaling approximately $970,000, was paid on April 8, 2022 to shareholders of record on March 21, 2022.

We continue to actively seek and explore opportunities for expansion through the acquisitions of additional broadcast properties.

We anticipate that any future acquisitions of radio stations and dividend payments will be financed through funds generated from operations, borrowings under the Credit Agreement, additional debt or equity financing, cash on hand, or a combination thereof. However, there can be no assurances that any such financing will be available on acceptable terms, if at all.

Summary Disclosures About Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments

We have future cash obligations under various types of contracts, including the terms of our Credit Facility, operating leases, programming contracts, employment agreements, and other operating contracts. For additional information concerning our future cash obligations see “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation — Summary Disclosures About Contractual Obligations” in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022.

We anticipate that our contractual cash obligations will be financed through funds generated from operations or additional borrowings under the Credit Facility, or a combination thereof.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

Recent accounting pronouncements are described in Note 2 to the accompanying financial statements.

Inflation

The impact of inflation on our operations has not been significant to date. We are, however, starting to see the effects of higher inflation starting to impact costs of most goods and services. There can be no assurance that a high rate of inflation in the future would not have an adverse effect on our operations.

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

Refer to “Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” and “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Market Risk and Risk Management Policies” in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022 for a complete discussion of our market risk. There have been no material changes to the market risk information included in our 2022 annual report on Form 10-K.

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Item 4. Controls and Procedures

As of the end of the period covered by this report, the Company carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Rule 13a-15 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Based upon that evaluation, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective to cause the material information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that it files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to be recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Commission’s rules and forms. There have been no changes in the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting during the quarter ended March 31, 2023, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting.

PART II — OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

From time to time, the Company may be involved in various legal proceedings that are incidental to the Company’s business. In management’s opinion, the Company is not a party to any current legal proceedings that are material to its financial condition, either individually or in the aggregate.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

There have been no material changes to the risk factors previously disclosed in response to Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors,” of our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022.

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

The following table summarizes our repurchases of our Class A Common Stock during the three months ended March 31, 2023.

				Total Number	Approximate
				of	Dollar
				Shares	Value of
				Purchased	Shares
	Total	Average		as Part of	that May Yet be
	Number	Price		Publicly	Purchased
	of Shares	Paid per		Announced	Under the
Period	Purchased (1)	Share		Program	Program(2)
January 1 - January 31, 2023	—	$	—	—	$	18,203,509
February 1 - February 28, 2023	—	$		—	$	18,203,509
March 1 - March 31, 2023	—	$	—	—	$	18,203,509
Total	—	$	—	—	$	18,203,509

(1) All shares were purchased other than through a publicly announced plan or program. The shares were forfeited to the Company for payment of tax withholding obligations related to the vesting of restricted stock.

(2) We have a Stock Buy-Back Program which allows us to purchase our Class A Common Stock. In February 2013, our Board of Directors authorized an increase in the amount committed to the Buy-Back Program from $60 million to approximately $75.8 million.

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Item 6. Exhibits

31.1	Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.2	Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32	Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 and Rule 13a-14(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
101.INS	Inline XBRL Instance Document (the instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document)
101.SCH	Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CAL	Inline XBRL Taxonomy Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEF	Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
101.LAB	Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE	Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
(104)	Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101)

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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

	SAGA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
Date: May 10, 2023	/s/ SAMUEL D. BUSH
	Samuel D. Bush
	Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)
Date: May 10, 2023	/s/ CATHERINE A. BOBINSKI
	Catherine A. Bobinski
	Senior Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer and Corporate Controller (Principal Accounting Officer)

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