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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
(Mark One)
[X] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2000
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: 333-52756
ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
COLORADO 84-1560440
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
5701 S. SANTA FE
LITTLETON, COLORADO 80120
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (303) 723-1000
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: None
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required
to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during
the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was
required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days. Yes [X] No [ ]
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405
of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the
best of Registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements
incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this
Form 10-K. [ ]
As of March 30, 2001, the Registrant's outstanding Common stock
consisted of 1,000 shares of Common Stock, $0.01 par value.
THE REGISTRANT MEETS THE CONDITIONS SET FORTH IN GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS (I)(1)(a)
AND (b) OF FORM 10-K AND IS THEREFORE FILING THIS ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
WITH THE REDUCED DISCLOSURE FORMAT.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
The following documents are incorporated into this Form 10-K by
reference:
None
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART I
Item 1. Business................................................................................... 1
Item 2. Properties................................................................................. 2
Item 3. Legal Proceedings.......................................................................... 3
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders........................................ *
PART II
Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters...................... 7
Item 6. Selected Financial Data.................................................................... *
Item 7. Management's Narrative Analysis of Results of Operations................................... 8
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk................................. 16
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data................................................ 16
Item 9. Changes In and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure....... 16
PART III
Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant......................................... *
Item 11. Executive Compensation..................................................................... *
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management............................. *
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions............................................. *
PART IV
Item 14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules and Reports on Form 8-K............................ 17
Signatures.............................................................................. 20
Index to Financial Statements........................................................... F-1
* This item has been omitted pursuant to the reduced disclosure format as set
forth in General Instructions (I)(1)(a) and (b) of Form 10-K.
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PART I
All statements contained herein, as well as statements made in press
releases and oral statements that may be made by us or by officers, directors or
employees acting on our behalf, that are not statements of historical fact
constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private
Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements
involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could
cause our actual results to be materially different from historical results or
from any future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.
Among the factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially are
the following: a total or partial loss of one or more satellites due to
operational failures, space debris or otherwise; delays in the construction of
our seventh, eighth or ninth satellites; an unsuccessful deployment of future
satellites; inability to settle outstanding claims with insurers; a decrease in
sales of digital equipment and related services to international direct-to-home
service providers; a decrease in DISH Network subscriber growth; an increase in
subscriber turnover; an increase in subscriber acquisition costs; an inability
to obtain certain retransmission consents; our inability to retain necessary
authorizations from the FCC; an inability to obtain patent licenses from holders
of intellectual property or redesign our products to avoid patent infringement;
an increase in competition from cable as a result of digital cable or otherwise,
direct broadcast satellite, other satellite system operators, and other
providers of subscription television services; the introduction of new
technologies and competitors into the subscription television business; a change
in the regulations governing the subscription television service industry; the
outcome of any litigation in which we may be involved; general business and
economic conditions; and other risk factors described from time to time in our
reports and statements filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. In
addition to statements that explicitly describe such risks and uncertainties,
readers are urged to consider statements that include the terms "believes,"
"belief," "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "intends" or the like to be
uncertain and forward-looking. All cautionary statements made herein should be
read as being applicable to all forward-looking statements wherever they appear.
In this connection, investors should consider the risks described herein and
should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements.
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS
We are a wholly-owned subsidiary of EchoStar Communications Corporation
or ECC, a publicly traded company on the Nasdaq National Market under the symbol
"DISH". During March 1999, ECC placed ownership of all of its direct broadcast
satellites and related FCC licenses into EchoStar Satellite Corporation.
DirectSat Corporation, Direct Broadcasting Satellite Corporation and EchoStar
Space Corporation were merged into EchoStar Satellite Corporation. Dish, Ltd.,
and EchoStar Satellite Broadcasting Company were merged into us. EchoStar IV and
the related FCC licenses were transferred to EchoStar Satellite Corporation.
During September 2000, we were formed for the purpose of issuing new debt. In
connection with the our debt offering, ECC contributed all of the outstanding
capital stock of its wholly-owned subsidiaries, EchoStar Orbital Corporation and
EchoStar DBS Corporation, to us concurrent with the closing of the offering. The
accompanying financial statements retroactively reflect these reorganizations.
Unless otherwise stated, or the context otherwise requires, references
to ECC shall include all of its direct and indirect wholly-owned subsidiaries.
We refer readers of this report to ECC's Annual Report for the year ended
December 31, 2000. Substantially all of our operations are conducted by
subsidiaries. Our operations include the following three interrelated business
units.
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o The DISH Network -- a direct broadcast satellite subscription
television service, which we refer to as DBS, in the United
States. As of December 31, 2000, we had approximately 5.26
million DISH Network subscribers.
o EchoStar Technologies Corporation -- engaged in the design,
development, distribution and sale of DBS set-top boxes,
antennae and other digital equipment for the DISH Network,
which we refer to as EchoStar receiver systems, the design,
development and distribution of similar equipment for
international direct-to-home satellite and other systems,
which we refer to as DTH, and the provision of uplink center
design, construction oversight and other project integration
services for international DTH ventures.
o Satellite Services -- engaged in the delivery of video, audio
and data services to business television customers and other
satellite users. These services may include satellite uplink
services, satellite transponder space usage, billing, customer
service and other services.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
The following table sets forth certain information concerning our
material properties:
SEGMENT(S) USING APPROXIMATE SQUARE
DESCRIPTION/USE/LOCATION PROPERTY FOOTAGE OWNED OR LEASED
- -------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ------------------ ---------------
Corporate headquarters and customer service center,
Littleton, Colorado ............................................ All 156,000 Owned
EchoStar Technologies Corporation office and distribution
center, Englewood, Colorado .................................... ETC 155,000 Owned
EchoStar Technologies Corporation engineering offices, ............. ETC and Satellite
Englewood, Colorado ............................................ Services 57,200 Owned
DISH Network and
Digital broadcast operations center, Cheyenne, Wyoming ............. Satellite Services 144,000 Owned
DISH Network and
Digital broadcast operations center, Gilbert, AZ ................... Satellite Services 120,000 Owned
Customer service center, McKeesport, Pennsylvania .................. DISH Network 100,000 Leased
Customer service center, El Paso, Texas ............................ DISH Network 100,000 Owned
Customer service center, Christiansburg, Virginia .................. DISH Network 100,000 Leased
Customer service center, Thornton, Colorado ........................ DISH Network 55,000 Owned
Customer service center, Bluefield, West Virginia .................. DISH Network 51,000 Owned
Warehouse and distribution center, Denver, Colorado ................ ETC 132,800 Leased
Office and distribution center, Sacramento, California ............. ETC 78,500 Owned
European headquarters and warehouse, Almelo, The
Netherlands .................................................... ETC and Other 53,800 Owned
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ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
DirecTV
During February 2000 EchoStar filed suit against DirecTV and Thomson
Consumer Electronics/RCA in the Federal District Court of Colorado. The suit
alleges that DirecTV has utilized improper conduct in order to fend off
competition from the DISH Network. According to the complaint, DirecTV has
demanded that certain retailers stop displaying EchoStar's merchandise and has
threatened to cause economic damage to retailers if they continue to offer both
product lines in head-to-head competition. The suit alleges, among other things,
that DirecTV has acted in violation of federal and state anti-trust laws in
order to protect DirecTV's market share. EchoStar is seeking injunctive relief
and monetary damages. On December 8, 2000, EchoStar submitted an Amended
Complaint adding claims against Circuit City, Radio Shack and Best Buy, alleging
that these retailers are engaging in improper conduct that has had an
anti-competitive impact on EchoStar. It is too early in the litigation to make
an assessment of the probable outcome. During October 2000, DirecTV filed a
motion for summary judgment asking that the Court enter judgment in DirecTV's
favor on certain of EchoStar's claims. EchoStar has filed a motion asking the
Court to allow it an opportunity to conduct discovery prior to having to
substantively respond to DirecTV's motion. DirecTV's motion for summary judgment
and EchoStar's motion remain pending.
The DirecTV defendants filed a counterclaim against EchoStar. DirecTV
alleges that EchoStar tortuously interfered with a contract that DirecTV
allegedly had with Kelly Broadcasting Systems, Inc. ("KBS"). DirecTV alleges
that EchoStar "merged" with KBS, in contravention of DirecTV's contract with
KBS. DirecTV also alleges that EchoStar has falsely advertised to consumers
about its right to offer network programming. DirecTV further alleges that
EchoStar improperly used certain marks owned by PrimeStar, now owned by DirecTV.
Finally, DirecTV alleges that EchoStar has been marketing National Football
League games in a misleading manner. The amount of damages DirecTV is seeking is
as yet unquantified. EchoStar intends to vigorously defend against these claims.
The case is currently in discovery. It is too early in the litigation to make an
assessment of the probable outcome.
Fee Dispute
EchoStar had a contingent fee arrangement with the attorneys who
represented EchoStar in the litigation with News Corporation. The contingent fee
arrangement provides for the attorneys to be paid a percentage of any net
recovery obtained by EchoStar in the News Corporation litigation. The attorneys
have asserted that they may be entitled to receive payments totaling hundreds of
millions of dollars under this fee arrangement.
During mid-1999, EchoStar initiated litigation against the attorneys in
the Arapahoe County, Colorado, District Court arguing that the fee arrangement
is void and unenforceable. In December 1999, the attorneys initiated an
arbitration proceeding before the American Arbitration Association. The
litigation has been stayed while the arbitration is ongoing. A two week
arbitration hearing has been set to begin on April 2, 2001. It is not possible
to determine the outcome of arbitration or litigation regarding this fee
dispute. EchoStar is vigorously contesting the attorneys' interpretation of the
fee arrangement, which EchoStar believes significantly overstates the magnitude
of its liability.
WIC Premium Television Ltd.
During July 1998, a lawsuit was filed by WIC Premium Television Ltd.,
an Alberta corporation, in the Federal Court of Canada Trial Division, against
General Instrument Corporation, HBO, Warner Communications, Inc., John Doe,
Showtime, United States Satellite Broadcasting Company, Inc., EchoStar
Communications Corporation, and two of EchoStar's wholly-owned subsidiaries,
EchoSphere Corporation and Dish, Ltd. The lawsuit seeks, among other things, an
interim and permanent injunction prohibiting the defendants from activating
receivers in Canada and from infringing any copyrights held by WIC. It is too
early to determine whether or when any other lawsuits or claims will be filed.
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During September 1998, WIC filed another lawsuit in the Court of
Queen's Bench of Alberta Judicial District of Edmonton against certain
defendants, including EchoStar. WIC is a company authorized to broadcast certain
copyrighted work, such as movies and concerts, to residents of Canada. WIC
alleges that the defendants engaged in, promoted, and/or allowed satellite dish
equipment from the United States to be sold in Canada and to Canadian residents
and that some of the defendants allowed and profited from Canadian residents
purchasing and viewing subscription television programming that is only
authorized for viewing in the United States. The lawsuit seeks, among other
things, an interim and permanent injunction prohibiting the defendants from
importing hardware into Canada and from activating receivers in Canada, together
with damages in excess of $175 million.
EchoStar filed motions to dismiss each of the actions for lack of
personal jurisdiction. The Court in the Alberta action recently denied
EchoStar's Motion to Dismiss, which EchoStar appealed. The Alberta Court also
granted a motion to add more EchoStar parties to the lawsuit. EchoStar Satellite
Corporation, EDBS, EchoStar Technologies Corporation, and EchoStar Satellite
Broadcast Corporation have been added as defendants in the litigation. The newly
added defendants have also challenged jurisdiction. The Court of Appeals denied
EchoStar's appeal and the Alberta Court has asserted jurisdiction over all of
the EchoStar defendants. The Court in the Federal action has stayed that case
pending the outcome of the Alberta action. The case is now currently in
discovery. EchoStar intends to vigorously defend the suit. It is too early to
make an assessment of the probable outcome of the litigation or to determine the
extent of any potential liability or damages.
Broadcast network programming
Until July 1998, EchoStar obtained distant broadcast network channels
(ABC, NBC, CBS and FOX) for distribution to its customers through PrimeTime 24.
In December 1998, the United States District Court for the Southern District of
Florida entered a nationwide permanent injunction requiring PrimeTime 24 to shut
off distant network channels to many of its customers, and henceforth to sell
those channels to consumers in accordance with certain stipulations in the
injunction.
In October 1998, EchoStar filed a declaratory judgment action against
ABC, NBC, CBS and FOX in Denver Federal Court. EchoStar asked the court to enter
a judgment declaring that its method of providing distant network programming
did not violate the Satellite Home Viewer Act and hence did not infringe the
networks' copyrights. In November 1998, the networks and their affiliate groups
filed a complaint against EchoStar in Miami Federal Court alleging, among other
things, copyright infringement. The court combined the case that EchoStar filed
in Colorado with the case in Miami and transferred it to the Miami court. The
case remains pending in Miami. While the networks have not sought monetary
damages, they have sought to recover attorney fees if they prevail.
In February 1999, the networks filed a "Motion for Temporary
Restraining Order, Preliminary Injunction and Contempt Finding" against DirecTV,
Inc. in Miami related to the delivery of distant network channels to DirecTV
customers by satellite. DirecTV settled this lawsuit with the networks. Under
the terms of the settlement between DirecTV and the networks, some DirecTV
customers were scheduled to lose access to their satellite-provided distant
network channels by July 31, 1999, while other DirecTV customers were to be
disconnected by December 31, 1999. Subsequently, PrimeTime 24 and substantially
all providers of satellite-delivered network programming other than EchoStar
agreed to this cut-off schedule, although EchoStar does not know if they adhered
to this schedule.
In December 1998, the networks filed a Motion for Preliminary
Injunction against EchoStar in the Miami court, and asked the court to enjoin
EchoStar from providing network programming except under limited circumstances.
A preliminary injunction hearing was held on September 21, 1999. The court took
the issues under advisement to consider the networks' request for an injunction,
whether to hear live testimony before ruling upon the request, and whether to
hear argument on why the Satellite Home Viewer Act may be unconstitutional,
among other things.
In March 2000, the networks filed an emergency motion again asking the
court to issue an injunction requiring EchoStar to turn off network programming
to certain of its customers. At that time, the networks also argued that
EchoStar's compliance procedures violate the Satellite Home Viewer Improvement
Act. EchoStar opposed the networks' motion and again asked the court to hear
live testimony before ruling upon the networks' injunction request.
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During September 2000, the Court granted the Networks' motion for
preliminary injunction, denied the Network's emergency motion and denied
EchoStar's request to present live testimony and evidence. The Court's original
order required EchoStar to terminate network programming to certain subscribers
"no later than February 15, 1999," and contained other dates which would be
physically impossible to comply with. The order imposes restrictions on
EchoStar's past and future sale of distant ABC, NBC, CBS and Fox channels
similar to those imposed on PrimeTime 24 (and, EchoStar believes, on DirecTV and
others). Some of those restrictions go beyond the statutory requirements imposed
by the Satellite Home Viewer Act and the Satellite Home Viewer Improvement Act.
For these and other reasons EchoStar believes the Court's order is, among other
things, fundamentally flawed, unconstitutional and should be overturned.
However, it is very unusual for a Court of Appeals to overturn a lower court's
order and there can be no assurance whatsoever that it will be overturned.
On October 3, 2000, and again on October 25, 2000, the Court amended
its original preliminary injunction order in an effort to fix some of the errors
in the original order. The twice amended preliminary injunction order required
EchoStar to shut off, by February 15, 2001, all subscribers who are ineligible
to receive distant network programming under the court's order. EchoStar has
appealed the September 2000 preliminary injunction order and the October 3, 2000
amended preliminary injunction order. On November 22, 2000, the United States
Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit stayed the Florida Court's preliminary
injunction order pending EchoStar's appeal. At that time, the Eleventh Circuit
also expedited its consideration of EchoStar's appeal.
During November 2000, EchoStar filed its appeal brief with the Eleventh
Circuit. During December 2000, the Satellite Broadcasting and Communications
Association submitted an amicus brief in support of EchoStar's appeal. The
Consumer Federation of America and the Media Access Project have also submitted
an amicus brief in support of EchoStar's appeal. The Networks have responded to
EchoStar's appeal brief and the amicus briefs filed by the Consumer Federation
of America and the Media Access Project and the Satellite Broadcasting and
Communications Association. In December 2000, the Department of Justice filed a
motion to intervene with respect to EchoStar's constitutional challenge of the
Satellite Home Viewers Act, and the National Association of Broadcasters filed
an amicus brief in support of the Networks' position in the appeal. During
January 2001, EchoStar filed its reply appeal brief and asked the Eleventh
Circuit for an opportunity to respond to the amicus brief filed by the National
Association of Broadcasters and the brief filed by the Department of Justice. On
January 11, 2001, the Networks advised the Eleventh Circuit that they did not
object to EchoStar's filing a response to the National Association of
Broadcasters' amicus brief or the Department of Justice's brief. On January 19,
2001, EchoStar filed its supplemental brief responding to the Department of
Justice's brief. On January 23, 2001, the Department of Justice filed a motion
to strike EchoStar's supplemental brief or for an opportunity to reply to
EchoStar's supplemental brief. On February 2, 2001, without explanation, the
Eleventh Circuit issued an order striking EchoStar's supplemental reply and
denying EchoStar an opportunity to file a response to the Department of
Justice's motion to intervene. The Eleventh Circuit has currently set oral
argument for May 24, 2001 in Atlanta. EchoStar cannot predict when the Eleventh
Circuit will rule on its appeal, but it could be as early as April 2001.
EchoStar's appeal effort may not be successful and EchoStar may be required to
comply with the Court's preliminary injunction order on short notice. The
preliminary injunction could force EchoStar to terminate delivery of distant
network channels to a substantial portion of its distant network subscriber
base, which could also cause many of these subscribers to cancel their
subscription to EchoStar's other services. Such terminations would result in a
small reduction in EchoStar's reported average monthly revenue per subscriber
and could result in a temporary increase in churn.
Starsight
During October 2000, Starsight Telecast, Inc., a subsidiary of
Gemstar-TV Guide, filed a suit for patent infringement against EchoStar and
certain of its subsidiaries in the United States District Court for the Western
District of North Carolina, Asheville Division. The suit alleges infringement of
United States Patent No. 4,706,121 ("the `121 patent") which relates to certain
electronic program guide functions. EchoStar has examined this patent and
believes that it is not infringed by any of EchoStar's products or services.
EchoStar is vigorously contesting the suit and has filed counterclaims
challenging both the validity and enforceability of this patent.
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In December 2000 EchoStar filed suit against Gemstar - TV Guide
International, Inc. (and certain of its subsidiaries) in the United States
District Court for the District of Colorado alleging violations by Gemstar of
various federal and state anti-trust laws and laws governing unfair competition.
The lawsuit seeks an injunction and monetary damages.
In February 2001, Gemstar filed patent infringement actions against
EchoStar in District Court in Atlanta, Georgia and in the International Trade
commission (ITC). These suits allege infringement of US Patent Nos. 5,252,066,
5,479,268 and 5,809,204 which all relate to certain electronic program guide
functions. In addition, the ITC action alleges infringement of the `121 patent
which is asserted in the North Carolina case. In the Atlanta District Court
case, Gemstar seeks damages and an injunction. Pursuant to Federal law, the
Atlanta case can be stayed pending the resolution of the ITC action. It is also
possible the North Carolina action will be stayed while the ITC case proceeds.
ITC actions typically proceed according to an expedited schedule. EchoStar
expects the ITC action to go to trial by the end of 2001 or early in 2002. A
final decision should be issued by the ITC by mid-2002. While the ITC cannot
award damages, it can issue exclusion orders that would prevent the importation
of articles that are found to infringe the asserted patents. In addition, it can
issue cease and desist orders that would prohibit the sale of infringing
products that had been previously imported. EchoStar has examined these patents
and believe they are not infringed by any of our products or services. EchoStar
will vigorously contest the ITC and Atlanta allegations of infringement and
will, among other things, challenge both the validity and enforceability of the
asserted patents.
During 2000, Superguide Corp. also filed suit against EchoStar, DirecTV
and others in the North Carolina Court, alleging infringement of United States
Patent Nos. 5,038,211, 5,293,357 and 4,751,578 which relate to certain
electronic program guide functions, including the use of electronic program
guides to control VCRs. It is EchoStar's understanding that these patents may be
licensed by Superguide to Gemstar, although Gemstar has not asserted the patents
against EchoStar. EchoStar has examined these patents and believes that they are
not infringed by any of EchoStar's products or services. EchoStar intends to
vigorously defend against this action and assert a variety of counterclaims.
In the event it is ultimately determined that EchoStar infringes on any
of aforementioned patents EchoStar may be subject to substantial damages, and/or
an injunction that could require EchoStar to materially modify certain user
friendly electronic programming guide and related features it currently offers
to consumers. It is too early to make an assessment of the probable outcome of
either suit.
IPPV Enterprises
IPPV Enterprises, LLC and MAAST, Inc. filed a patent infringement suit
against EchoStar in the United States District Court for the District of
Delaware. The suit alleges infringement of 5 patents. The patents disclose
various systems for the implementation of features such as impulse-pay-per view,
parental control and category lock-out. One patent relates to an encryption
technique. Three of the patents have expired. EchoStar is vigorously defending
against the suit based, among other things, on non-infringement, invalidity and
failure to provide notice of alleged infringement.
In the event it is ultimately determined that EchoStar infringes on any
of these patents we may be subject to substantial damages, and/or an injunction
with respect to the two unexpired patents, that could require EchoStar to
materially modify certain user friendly features it currently offer to
consumers. It is too early to make an assessment of the probable outcome of
either suit.
Retailer Class Actions
EchoStar has been sued by retailers in three separate class actions.
In two separate lawsuits, Air Communication & Satellite, Inc. and John DeJong,
et. al. filed lawsuits on October 6, 2000 on behalf of themselves and a class of
persons similarly situated. The plaintiffs are attempting to certify nationwide
classes allegedly brought on behalf of persons, primarily retail dealers, who
were alleged signatories to certain retailer agreements with EchoStar Satellite
Corporation. The plaintiffs are requesting the Court to declare certain
provisions of the alleged agreements invalid and unenforceable, to declare that
certain unilateral changes to the agreements are invalid and unenforceable, and
to award damages for lost commissions and payments, charge backs, and other
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compensation. The plaintiffs are alleging breach of contract and breach of the
covenant of good faith and fair dealing and are seeking declaratory relief,
compensatory damages, injunctive relief, and pre-judgment and post-judgment
interest. EchoStar intends to vigorously defend the lawsuit and to assert a
variety of counterclaims. It is too early to make an assessment of the probable
outcome of the litigation or to determine the extent of any potential liability
or damages.
Satellite Dealers Supply, Inc. filed a lawsuit on September 25, 2000,
on behalf of itself and a class of persons similarly situated. The plaintiff is
attempting to certify a nationwide class allegedly brought on behalf of sellers,
installers, and servicers of equipment used to provide satellite who contract
with EchoStar and claims the alleged class has been "subject to improper
chargebacks." The plaintiff alleges that (1) EchoStar charged back certain fees
paid by members of the class to professional installers in violation of
contractual terms; (2) EchoStar manipulated the accounts of subscribers to deny
payments to class members; and (3) EchoStar misrepresented to class members who
owns certain equipment related to provision of satellite television service. The
plaintiff is requesting a permanent injunction and monetary damages. EchoStar
intends to vigorously defend the lawsuit and to assert a variety of
counterclaims. It is too early to make an assessment of the probable outcome of
the litigation or to determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
We are subject to various other legal proceedings and claims which
arise in the ordinary course of business. In the opinion of management, the
amount of ultimate liability with respect to those actions will not materially
affect our financial position or results of operations.
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER
MATTERS
As of March 30, 2001, all 1,000 authorized, issued and outstanding
shares of our common stock were held by EchoStar. There is currently no
established trading market for our common stock.
We have never declared or paid any cash dividends on our common stock
and do not expect to declare dividends in the foreseeable future. Payment of any
future dividends will depend upon our earnings and capital requirements, our
debt facilities, and other factors the Board of Directors considers appropriate.
We currently intend to retain our earnings, if any, to support future growth and
expansion. Our ability to declare dividends is affected by covenants in our debt
facilities.
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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
All statements contained herein, as well as statements made in press
releases and oral statements that may be made by us or by officers, directors or
employees acting on our behalf, that are not statements of historical fact
constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private
Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements
involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could
cause our actual results to be materially different from historical results or
from any future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.
Among the factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially are
the following: a total or partial loss of one or more satellites due to
operational failures, space debris or otherwise; delays in the construction of
our seventh, eighth or ninth satellites; an unsuccessful deployment of future
satellites; inability to settle outstanding claims with insurers; a decrease in
sales of digital equipment and related services to international direct-to-home
service providers; a decrease in DISH Network subscriber growth; an increase in
subscriber turnover; an increase in subscriber acquisition costs; an inability
to obtain certain retransmission consents; our inability to retain necessary
authorizations from the FCC; an inability to obtain patent licenses from holders
of intellectual property or redesign our products to avoid patent infringement;
an increase in competition from cable as a result of digital cable or otherwise,
direct broadcast satellite, other satellite system operators, and other
providers of subscription television services; the introduction of new
technologies and competitors into the subscription television business; a change
in the regulations governing the subscription television service industry; the
outcome of any litigation in which we may be involved; general business and
economic conditions; and other risk factors described from time to time in our
reports and statements filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. In
addition to statements that explicitly describe such risks and uncertainties,
readers are urged to consider statements that include the terms "believes,"
"belief," "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "intends" or the like to be
uncertain and forward-looking. All cautionary statements made herein should be
read as being applicable to all forward-looking statements wherever they appear.
In this connection, investors should consider the risks described herein and
should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Year Ended December 31, 2000 Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 1999.
Revenue. Total revenue for the year ended December 31, 2000 was $2.709
billion, an increase of $1.103 billion compared to total revenue for the year
ended December 31, 1999 of $1.606 billion. The increase in total revenue was
primarily attributable to DISH Network subscriber growth. We expect that our
revenues will continue to increase significantly as the number of DISH Network
subscribers increases.
DISH Network subscription television services revenue totaled $2.342
billion for the year ended December 31, 2000, an increase of $999 million
compared to the same period in 1999. DISH Network subscription television
services revenue principally consists of revenue from basic, premium and
pay-per-view subscription television services. This increase was directly
attributable to the increase in the number of DISH Network subscribers and
higher average revenue per subscriber. DISH Network added approximately 1.85
million net new subscribers for the year ended December 31, 2000, an increase of
approximately 26% compared to approximately 1.47 million net subscriber
additions during 1999. As of December 31, 2000, we had approximately 5.26
million DISH Network subscribers compared to approximately 3.4 million at
December 31, 1999, an increase of 54%. The strong subscriber growth reflects the
impact of aggressive marketing promotions, including our free installation
program, together with increased interest in satellite television resulting from
the availability of local network channels by satellite, and positive momentum
for the DISH Network. DISH Network subscription television services revenue will
continue to increase to the extent we are successful in increasing the number of
DISH Network subscribers and maintaining or increasing revenue per subscriber.
While there can be no assurance, assuming the U.S. economy continues to grow at
a slow pace, we expect to add approximately 1.5 to 2.0 million net new
subscribers during 2001, and to obtain a majority of all net new DBS
subscribers.
Monthly average revenue per subscriber was approximately $45.33 during
the year ended December 31, 2000 and approximately $42.71 during the same period
in 1999. The increase in monthly average revenue per subscriber is primarily
attributable to a $1.00 price increase in America's Top 100 CD, our most popular
programming package, during May 2000, the increased availability of local
channels by satellite together with the earlier successful introduction of our
$39.99 per month America's Top 150 programming package. During August 2000, we
announced
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a promotion offering consumers free premium movie channels. Under this
promotion, all new subscribers who order either our America's Top 100 CD or
America's Top 150 programming package and any or all of our four premium movie
packages between August 1, 2000 and January 31, 2001, received those premium
movie packages free for three months. This promotion had a negative impact on
monthly average revenue per subscriber since premium movie package revenue from
participating subscribers was deferred until the expiration of each
participating subscriber's free service. While there can be no assurance, we
expect our moderate historical increases in revenue per subscriber to continue
during 2001 and expect to reach monthly average revenue per subscriber of
approximately $50 by the end of December 2001.
For the year ended December 31, 2000, DTH equipment sales and
integration services totaled $256 million, an increase of $78 million compared
to the same period during 1999. DTH equipment sales consist of sales of digital
set-top boxes and other digital satellite broadcasting equipment to
international DTH service operators and sales of DBS accessories. This increase
in DTH equipment sales and integration services revenue was primarily
attributable to an increase in international demand for digital set-top boxes as
compared to the same period during 1999.
A significant portion of DTH equipment sales and integration services
revenues have resulted from sales to two international DTH providers. We
currently have agreements to provide equipment to DTH service operators in Spain
and Canada. Our future revenue from the sale of DTH equipment and integration
services in international markets depends largely on the success of these DTH
operators and continued demand for our digital set-top boxes. Although we
continue to actively pursue additional distribution and integration service
opportunities internationally, no assurance can be given that any such efforts
will be successful.
As previously reported, since 1998, Telefonica's Via Digital, one of
the two DTH service providers described above, has had recurrent discussions and
negotiations for a possible merger with Sogecable's Canal Satelite Digital, one
of its primary competitors. While we are not currently aware of any formal
negotiations between Via Digital and Canal Satelite Digital, there are again
rumors of a potential merger in the marketplace. Although we have binding
purchase orders from Via Digital for deliveries of DTH equipment in 2001, we
cannot predict the impact, if any, eventual consummation of this possible merger
might have on our future sales to Via Digital.
Satellite services revenue totaled $53 million during the year ended
December 31, 2000, an increase of $11 million as compared to the same period
during 1999. These revenues principally include fees charged to content
providers for signal carriage and revenues earned from business television, or
BTV customers. The increase in satellite services revenue was primarily
attributable to the addition of new full-time BTV customers and additional sales
of idle satellite capacity to occasional-use customers. As a greater percentage
of our satellite capacity is utilized during 2001 for local network channels and
other programming designed to drive consumer subscriber acquisitions, satellite
services revenues may decline.
In order, among other things, to commence compliance with the
injunction issued against us in our pending litigation with the four major
broadcast networks and their affiliate groups, we have terminated the delivery
of distant network channels to certain of our subscribers. Additionally, the FCC
recently issued rules which impair our ability to deliver certain superstation
channels to our customers. Those rules will increase the cost of our delivery of
superstations, and could require that we terminate the delivery of certain
superstations to a material portion of our subscriber base. In combination,
these terminations would result in a small reduction in average monthly revenue
per subscriber and could increase subscriber turnover. While there can be no
assurance, any such decreases could be offset by increases in average monthly
revenue per subscriber resulting from the delivery of local network channels by
satellite, and increases in other programming offerings.
DISH Network Operating Expenses. DISH Network operating expenses
totaled $1.268 billion during the year ended December 31, 2000, an increase of
$530 million or 72% compared to the same period in 1999. DISH Network operating
expenses represented 54% and 55% of subscription television services revenue
during the years ended December 31, 2000 and 1999, respectively. The increase in
DISH Network operating expenses in total was consistent with, and primarily
attributable to, the increase in the number of DISH Network subscribers. While
there can be no assurance, we expect that our efforts to control costs and
create operating efficiencies will result in a moderate decrease in operating
expenses as a percentage of subscription television services revenue during
2001.
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Subscriber-related expenses totaled $981 million during the year ended
December 31, 2000, an increase of $400 million compared to the same period in
1999. Such expenses, which include programming expenses, copyright royalties,
residuals currently payable to retailers and distributors, and billing, lockbox
and other variable subscriber expenses, represented 42% and 43% of subscription
television services revenues during the years ended December 31, 2000 and 1999,
respectively. Although we do not currently expect subscriber-related expenses as
a percentage of subscription television services revenue to increase materially
in future periods, there can be no assurance this expense to revenue ratio will
not materially increase.
Customer service center and other expenses principally consist of costs
incurred in the operation of our DISH Network customer service centers, such as
personnel and telephone expenses, as well as other operating expenses related to
our service and installation business. Customer service center and other
expenses totaled $251 million during the year ended December 31, 2000, an
increase of $134 million as compared to the same period in 1999. The increase in
customer service center and other expenses primarily resulted from increased
personnel and telephone expenses to support the growth of the DISH Network and
from operating expenses related to the expansion of our installation and service
business. Customer service center and other expenses totaled 11% of subscription
television services revenue during the year ended December 31, 2000, as compared
to 9% during the same period in 1999. The increase in this expense to revenue
ratio primarily resulted from the on-going construction and start-up costs of
our fifth customer service center in Virginia, our sixth customer service center
in West Virginia, and the continued build-out of our installation offices
nationwide. These expenses in total, and as a percentage of subscription
television services revenue, may continue to increase in future periods as we
continue to develop and expand our customer service centers and installation
business to provide additional customer support and help us better accommodate
anticipated subscriber growth, resulting in long term efficiency improvements.
We continue to work to automate simple phone responses, and intend to increase
internet based customer assistance in the future, in order to better manage
customer service costs.
Satellite and transmission expenses include expenses associated with
the operation of our digital broadcast center, contracted satellite telemetry,
tracking and control services, and satellite in-orbit insurance. Satellite and
transmission expenses totaled $36 million during the year ended December 31,
2000, a $4 million decrease compared to the same period in 1999. Satellite and
transmission expenses totaled 2% and 3% of subscription television services
revenue during the years ended December 31, 2000 and 1999, respectively. We
expect satellite and transmission expenses to continue to increase in the future
as additional satellites or digital broadcast centers are placed in service, but
do not expect these expenses to increase as a percentage of subscription
television services revenue.
Cost of sales - DTH equipment and Integration Services. Cost of sales -
DTH equipment and integration services totaled $197 million during the year
ended December 31, 2000, an increase of $47 million compared to the same period
in 1999. Cost of sales - DTH equipment and integration services principally
includes costs associated with digital set-top boxes and related components sold
to international DTH operators and DBS accessories. This increase in cost of
sales - DTH equipment and integration services is consistent with the increase
in DTH equipment sales and integration services revenue. Cost of sales - DTH
equipment and integration services represented 77% and 84% of DTH equipment
revenue, during the years ended December 31, 2000 and 1999, respectively. The
higher margin was principally attributable to a $16.6 million loss provision
recorded during 1999 primarily for component parts and purchase commitments
related to our first generation model 7100 set-top boxes, for which production
was suspended in favor of our second generation model 7200 set-top boxes.
Marketing Expenses. We subsidize the cost and installation of EchoStar
receiver systems in order to attract new DISH Network subscribers. Consequently,
our subscriber acquisition costs are significant. Marketing expenses totaled
$1.175 billion during the year ended December 31, 2000, an increase of $433
million compared to the same period in 1999. The increase in marketing expenses
was primarily attributable to an increase in subscriber promotion subsidies.
Subscriber promotion subsidies - promotional DTH equipment includes the cost
related to EchoStar receiver systems distributed to retailers and other
distributors of our equipment. Subscriber promotion subsidies - other includes
net costs related to our free installation promotion and other promotional
incentives. Advertising and other expenses totaled $138 million and $65 million
during the years ended December 31, 2000 and 1999, respectively.
During the year ended December 31, 2000, our marketing promotions
included our DISH Network One-Rate Plan, C-band bounty program, Great Rewards
program (PrimeStar bounty), Digital Dynamite Plan, cable
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bounty and a free installation program. Our subscriber acquisition costs under
these programs are significantly higher than those under our marketing programs
historically.
Under the DISH Network One-Rate Plan, consumers were eligible to
receive a rebate of up to $199 on the purchase of certain EchoStar receiver
systems. To be eligible for this rebate, a subscriber must have made a one-year
commitment to subscribe to our America's Top 150 programming or our America's
Top 100 CD programming package plus one premium movie package (or equivalent
additional programming). This promotion expired on January 31, 2001.
Under our bounty programs, current cable customers were eligible to
receive a free base-level EchoStar receiver system and free installation. To be
eligible for this program, a subscriber must have made a one-year commitment to
subscribe to either our America's Top 100 CD programming package plus one
premium movie package (or equivalent additional programming) or our America's
Top 150 programming package and prove that they are a current cable customer.
This promotion expired on January 31, 2001.
During July 2000, we announced the commencement of our new Digital
Dynamite promotion. The Digital Dynamite plans offer four choices to consumers,
ranging from the use of one EchoStar receiver system and our America's Top 100
CD programming package for $35.99 per month, to providing consumers two EchoStar
receiver systems and our America's Top 150 programming package for $49.99 per
month. With each plan, consumers receive in-home-service, must agree to a
one-year commitment and incur a one-time set-up fee of $49.99, which includes
the first month's programming payment.
During February 2001, we announced our Free Now promotion offering all
new subscribers a free base-level EchoStar receiver system and free
installation. To be eligible for this program, a subscriber must provide a valid
major credit card and make a one-year commitment to subscribe to either our
America's Top 150 programming package or our America's Top 100 CD or DISH Latino
Dos programming package plus additional programming totaling at least $39.98 per
month. Although subscriber acquisition costs are materially higher under this
plan compared to historical promotions, customers under this plan generally are
expected to produce materially greater average revenue per subscriber than a
typical DISH Network subscriber. In addition, we believe that these customers
represent lower credit risk and therefore may be marginally less likely to
disconnect their service than other DISH Network subscribers. To the extent that
actual consumer participation levels exceed present expectations, subscriber
acquisition costs may increase. Although there can be no assurance as to the
ultimate duration of the Free Now promotion, we intend to continue it through at
least March 2001.
Under our free installation program all customers who purchase an
EchoStar receiver system from January 2000 through April 2000, from May 24, 2000
to July 31, 2000 and from September 15, 2000 to March 31, 2001, are eligible to
receive a free professional installation. The free installation program was
responsible, in part, for the strong subscriber growth during the first half of
2000.
We subsidize the cost and installation of EchoStar receiver systems in
order to attract new DISH Network subscribers. There is no clear industry
standard used in the calculation of subscriber acquisition costs. Our subscriber
acquisition costs include subscriber promotion subsidies - promotional DTH
equipment, subscriber promotion subsidies - other and DISH Network acquisition
marketing expenses. During the year ended December 31, 2000, our subscriber
acquisition costs totaled approximately $1.155 billion, or approximately $452
per new subscriber activation. Since we retain ownership of the equipment,
amounts capitalized under our Digital Dynamite Plan are not included in our
calculation of these subscriber acquisition costs. Comparatively, our subscriber
acquisition costs during the year ended December 31, 1999 totaled $729 million,
or approximately $385 per new subscriber activation. The increase in our
subscriber acquisition expenses, on a per new subscriber activation basis,
principally resulted from the impact of several marketing promotions to acquire
new subscribers, including most significantly our free installation offer which
was reinstated during September 2000. As a result of continuing competition and
our plans to attempt to continue to drive rapid subscriber growth, we expect our
per subscriber acquisition costs for 2001 will remain in a range consistent with
our 2000 average of approximately $452 per new subscriber activation.
Our subscriber acquisition costs, both in the aggregate and on a per
new subscriber activation basis, may materially increase further to the extent
that we continue or expand our Free Now program, or introduce other more
aggressive promotions if we determine that they are necessary to respond to
competition, or for other reasons.
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General and Administrative Expenses. General and administrative
expenses totaled $234 million during the year ended December 31, 2000, an
increase of $92 million as compared to the same period in 1999. The increase in
G&A expenses was principally attributable to increased personnel expenses to
support the growth of the DISH Network. G&A expenses represented 9% of total
revenue during the years ended December 31, 2000 and 1999. Although we expect
G&A expenses as a percentage of total revenue to remain near the current level
or decline modestly in future periods, this expense to revenue ratio could
increase.
Non-cash, Stock-based Compensation. During 1999, we adopted an
incentive plan which provided certain key employees with incentives including
stock options. The payment of these incentives was contingent upon our
achievement of certain financial and other goals. We met certain of these goals
during 1999. Accordingly, during 1999, we recorded approximately $179 million of
deferred compensation related to post-grant appreciation of stock options
granted pursuant to the 1999 incentive plan. The related deferred compensation
will be recognized over the five-year vesting period. Accordingly, during the
years ended December 31, 2000 and 1999 we recognized $51 million and $61
million, respectively, under this performance-based plan.
We report all non-cash compensation based on stock option appreciation
as a single expense category in our accompanying statements of operations. The
following table represents the other expense categories in our statements of
operations that would be affected if non-cash, stock-based compensation was
allocated to the same expense categories as the base compensation for key
employees who participate in the 1999 incentive plan:
DECEMBER 31,
1999 2000
------- -------
Customer service center and other $ 4,328 $ 1,744
Satellite and transmission 2,308 3,061
General and administrative 54,424 46,660
------- -------
Total non-cash, stock-based compensation $61,060 $51,465
======= =======
Pre-Marketing Cash Flow. Pre-marketing cash flow is comprised of EBITDA
plus total marketing expenses. Pre-marketing cash flow was $977 million during
the year ended December 31, 2000, an increase of 75% compared to the same period
in 1999. Our pre-marketing cash flow as a percentage of total revenue was 36% in
2000 compared to 35% in 1999. We believe that pre-marketing cash flow can be a
useful measure of operating efficiency for companies in the DBS industry. While
there can be no assurance, we expect that pre-marketing cash flow as a
percentage of total revenue will continue to improve, and will approach 40%
during 2001.
Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization. EBITDA
represents earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, and
non-cash, stock-based compensation. EBITDA was negative $199 million during the
year ended December 31, 2000 compared to negative $182 million during the same
period in 1999. This decline in EBITDA principally resulted from an increase in
DISH Network marketing expenses primarily resulting from increased subscriber
additions. Our calculation of EBITDA for the years ended December 31, 2000 and
1999 does not include approximately $51 million and $61 million, respectively,
of non-cash compensation expense resulting from post-grant appreciation of
employee stock options. While there can be no assurance, we expect to achieve
positive EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2001. As previously discussed,
to the extent we expand our current marketing promotions and our subscriber
acquisition costs materially increase, our EBITDA results will be negatively
impacted because subscriber acquisition costs are generally expensed as
incurred.
It is important to note that EBITDA and pre-marketing cash flow do not
represent cash provided or used by operating activities. EBITDA and
pre-marketing cash flow should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute
for measures of performance prepared in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles.
Depreciation and Amortization. Depreciation and amortization expenses
aggregated $175 million during the year ended December 31, 2000, a $65 million
increase compared to the same period in 1999. The increase in depreciation and
amortization expenses principally resulted from an increase in depreciation
related to the
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commencement of operation of EchoStar V in November 1999 and EchoStar VI in
October 2000 and other depreciable assets placed in service during 2000 and late
1999.
Other Income and Expense. Other expense, net, totaled $187 million
during the year ended December 31, 2000, a decrease of $22 million compared to
the same period in 1999. This decrease primarily resulted from a loss on
disposal of assets during the year ended December 31, 1999 partially offset by
an increase in interest expense during the year ended December 31, 2000.
Year Ended December 31, 1999 compared to the year ended December 31, 1998.
Revenue. Total revenue for the year ended December 31, 1999 was $1.606
billion, an increase of $620 million compared to total revenue for the year
ended December 31, 1998 of $986 million. The increase in total revenue was
primarily attributable to DISH Network subscriber growth.
DISH Network subscription television services revenue totaled $1.343
billion for the year ended December 31, 1999, an increase of $674 million
compared to the same period in 1998. This increase was directly attributable to
the increase in the number of DISH Network subscribers and higher average
revenue per subscriber. Average DISH Network subscribers for the year ended
December 31, 1999 increased approximately 85% compared to the same period in
1998. As of December 31, 1999, we had approximately 3.4 million DISH Network
subscribers compared to 1.9 million at December 31, 1998. Monthly revenue per
subscriber was approximately $42.71 during the year ended December 31, 1999 and
approximated $39.25 during the same period during 1998. DISH Network
subscription television services revenue principally consists of revenue from
basic, premium and pay-per-view subscription television services.
For the year ended December 31, 1999, DTH equipment sales and
integration services totaled $178 million, a decrease of $76 million compared to
the same period during 1998. DTH equipment sales consist of sales of digital
set-top boxes and other digital satellite broadcasting equipment to
international DTH service operators and sales of DBS accessories. This expected
decrease in DTH equipment sales and integration services revenue was primarily
attributable to a decrease in demand combined with a decrease in the sales price
of digital set-top boxes attributable to increased competition.
Satellite services revenue totaled $41 million during 1999, an increase
of $19 million as compared to the same period during 1998. These revenues
principally include fees charged to content providers for signal carriage and
revenues earned from business television, or BTV customers. The increase in
satellite services revenue was primarily attributable to increased BTV revenue
due to the addition of new full-time BTV customers.
DISH Network Operating Expenses. DISH Network operating expenses
totaled $738 million during 1999, an increase of $341 million or 86%, compared
to the same period in 1998. The increase in DISH Network operating expenses was
consistent with, and primarily attributable to, the increase in the number of
DISH Network subscribers. DISH Network operating expenses represented 55% and
59% of subscription television services revenue during the years ended December
31, 1999 and 1998, respectively.
Subscriber-related expenses totaled $581 million during 1999, an
increase of $283 million compared to the same period in 1998. Such expenses,
which include programming expenses, copyright royalties, residuals payable to
retailers and distributors, and billing, lockbox and other variable subscriber
expenses, represented 43% of subscription television services revenues during
the year ended December 31, 1999 compared to 45% during the same period in 1998.
Customer service center and other expenses principally consist of costs
incurred in the operation of our DISH Network customer service centers, such as
personnel and telephone expenses, as well as subscriber equipment installation
and other operating expenses. Customer service center and other expenses totaled
$117 million during 1999, an increase of $45 million as compared to the same
period in 1998. The increase in customer service center and other expenses
resulted from increased personnel and telephone expenses to support the growth
of the DISH Network. Customer service center and other expenses totaled 9% of
subscription television services revenue during 1999, as compared to 11% during
the same period in 1998.
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Satellite and transmission expenses include expenses associated with
the operation of our digital broadcast center, contracted satellite telemetry,
tracking and control services, and satellite in-orbit insurance. Satellite and
transmission expenses totaled $40 million during 1999, a $14 million increase
compared to the same period in 1998. This increase resulted from higher
satellite and other digital broadcast center operating expenses due to an
increase in the number of operational satellites. Satellite and transmission
expenses totaled 3% and 4% of subscription television services revenue during
the year ended December 31, 1999 and 1998, respectively.
Cost of sales - DTH equipment and Integration Services. Cost of sales -
DTH equipment and integration services totaled $150 million during 1999, a
decrease of $25 million compared to the same period in 1998. Cost of sales - DTH
equipment and integration services principally includes costs associated with
digital set-top boxes and related components sold to international DTH operators
and DBS accessories. Cost of sales - DTH equipment and integration services
represented 84% and 69% of DTH equipment revenue, during the years ended
December 31, 1999 and 1998, respectively. The lower margin was principally
attributable to a $16.6 million loss provision primarily for component parts and
purchase commitments related to our first generation model 7100 set-top boxes,
for which production has been suspended in favor of our second generation model
7200 set-top boxes. The write-off partially offset the expected decrease in cost
of sales - DTH equipment and integration services attributable to a decrease in
demand combined with increased competition.
Marketing Expenses. Marketing expenses totaled $742 million during
1999, an increase of $410 million compared to the same period in 1998. The
increase in marketing expenses was primarily attributable to an increase in
subscriber promotion subsidies. Subscriber promotion subsidies - promotional DTH
equipment includes the cost related to EchoStar receiver systems distributed to
retailers and other distributors of our equipment. Subscriber promotion
subsidies - other includes net costs related to our free installation promotion
and other promotional incentives. Advertising and other expenses totaled $65
million and $48 million during the years ended December 31, 1999 and 1998,
respectively.
During 1999, our total subscriber acquisition costs, inclusive of
acquisition marketing expenses, totaled approximately $729 million, or
approximately $385 per new subscriber activation. Comparatively, our subscriber
acquisition costs during the year ended December 31, 1998, inclusive of
acquisition marketing expenses and deferred subscriber acquisition costs,
totaled $317 million, or approximately $285 per new subscriber activation. The
increase in our subscriber acquisition costs, on a per new subscriber activation
basis, principally resulted from the introduction of several aggressive
marketing promotions to acquire new subscribers.
General and Administrative Expenses. General and administrative
expenses totaled $142 million during 1999, an increase of $47 million as
compared to the same period in 1998. The increase in G&A expenses was
principally attributable to increased personnel expenses to support the growth
of the DISH Network. G&A expenses as a percentage of total revenue increased to
9% during the year ended December 31, 1999 compared to 10% during the same
period in 1998.
Non-cash, Stock-based Compensation. During 1999, we adopted an
incentive plan which provided certain key employees with incentives including
stock options. The payment of these incentives was contingent upon our
achievement of certain financial and other goals. We met certain of these goals
during 1999. Accordingly, during 1999, we recorded approximately $179 million of
deferred compensation related to post-grant appreciation of stock options
granted pursuant to the 1999 incentive plan. The related deferred compensation
will be recognized over the five-year period. Accordingly, during the year ended
December 31, 1999 we recognized $61 million under this performance-based plan.
Pre-Marketing Cash Flow. Pre-marketing cash flow is comprised of EBITDA
plus total marketing expenses. Pre-marketing cash flow was $560 million during
the year ended December 31, 1999, an increase of 85% compared to the same period
in 1998. Our pre-marketing cash flow as a percentage of total revenue was 35% in
1999 compared to 31% in 1998. We believe that pre-marketing cash flow can be a
useful measure of operating efficiency for companies in the DBS industry.
Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization. EBITDA
represents earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, and
non-cash, stock-based compensation. EBITDA was negative $182 million during the
year ended December 31, 1999 compared to negative $29 million during the same
period in
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1998. EBITDA, as adjusted to exclude amortization of subscriber acquisition
costs, was negative $182 million for the year ended December 31, 1999 compared
to negative $48 million for the same period in 1998. This decline in EBITDA
principally resulted from an increase in DISH Network operating and marketing
expenses. Our calculation of EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 1999 does
not include approximately $61 million of non-cash compensation expense resulting
from post-grant appreciation of stock options granted to employees.
It is important to note that EBITDA and pre-marketing cash flow do not
represent cash provided or used by operating activities. EBITDA and
pre-marketing cash flow should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute
for measures of performance prepared in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles.
Depreciation and Amortization. Depreciation and amortization expenses
aggregated $110 million during 1999, an $8 million increase compared to the same
period in 1998, during which subscriber acquisition costs were amortized.
Commencing October 1997, we instead expensed all of these costs at the time of
sale. The increase in depreciation and amortization expenses principally
resulted from an increase in depreciation related to the commencement of
operation of EchoStar IV in August of 1998, the commencement of operation of
EchoStar V in November 1999 and other depreciable assets placed in service
during 1999, partially offset by subscriber acquisition costs becoming fully
amortized during the third quarter of 1998.
Other Income and Expense. Other expense, net, totaled $209 million
during 1999, an increase of $46 million compared to the same period in 1998.
This increase resulted from an increase in interest expense. In January 1999, we
refinanced our outstanding 12 1/2% Senior Secured Notes due 2002 issued in June
1997, our 12 7/8% Senior Secured Discount Notes due 2004 issued in 1994, and our
13 1/8% Senior Secured Discount Notes due 2004 issued in 1996 at more favorable
interest rates and terms. In connection with the refinancing, we consummated an
offering of 9 1/4% Senior Notes due 2006 and 9 3/8% Senior Notes due 2009,
referred to herein as the 9 1/4% Seven Year Notes and 9 3/8% Ten Year Notes.
Although the 9 1/4% Seven Year Notes and 9 3/8% Ten Year Notes have lower
interest rates than the debt securities we repurchased, interest expense
increased by approximately $23 million because we raised additional debt to
cover tender premiums and consent and other fees related to the refinancing.
Extraordinary Charge for Early Retirement of Debt. In connection with
the January 1999 refinancing, we recognized an extraordinary loss of $229
million comprised of debt costs, discounts, tender costs, and premiums paid over
the accreted values of the debt retired.
EFFECTS OF RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
In December 1999, the Securities and Exchange Commission issued Staff
Accounting Bulletin No. 101 or SAB 101, "Views on Selected Revenue Recognition
Issues." SAB 101 provides guidance on applying generally accepted accounting
principles to selected revenue recognition issues. The provisions of SAB 101 and
certain related EITF consensuses were required to be adopted in the quarter
ended December 31, 2000 retroactive to January 1, 2000, with any cumulative
effect as of January 1, 2000 reported as the cumulative effect of a change in
accounting principle. Our adoption of SAB 101 resulted in no recognition of a
cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle.
SEASONALITY
Our revenues vary throughout the year. As is typical in the
subscription television service industry, our first half of the year generally
produces lower new subscriber revenues than the second half of the year. Our
operating results in any period may be affected by the incurrence of advertising
and promotion expenses that do not necessarily produce commensurate revenues in
the short-term until the impact of such advertising and promotion is realized in
future periods.
INFLATION
Inflation has not materially affected our operations during the past
three years. We believe that our ability to increase the prices charged for our
products and services in future periods will depend primarily on competitive
pressures. We do not have any material backlog of our products.
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ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK
MARKET RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
As of December 31, 2000, our unrestricted cash, cash equivalents and
marketable investment securities had a fair value of $1.028 billion which was
invested in: (a) cash; (b) debt instruments of the U.S. Government and its
agencies; (c) commercial paper with an average maturity of less than one year
and rated in one of the four highest rating categories by at least two
nationally recognized statistical rating organizations; and (d) instruments with
similar risk characteristics to the commercial paper described above. The
primary purpose of these investing activities has been to preserve principal
until the cash is required to fund operations. Consequently, the size of this
portfolio fluctuates significantly as cash is raised and used in our business.
The value of certain of the investments in this portfolio can be
impacted by, among other things, the risk of adverse changes in securities and
economic markets generally, as well as the risks related to the performance of
the companies whose commercial paper and other instruments we hold. However, the
high quality of these investments (as assessed by independent rating agencies),
reduces these risks. The value of these investments can also be impacted by
interest rate fluctuations. At December 31, 2000, all of our investments in this
category were in fixed rate instruments or money market type accounts. While an
increase in interest rates would ordinarily adversely impact the fair value of
fixed rate investments, we normally hold these investments to maturity.
Consequently, neither interest rate fluctuations nor other market risks
typically result in significant gains or losses to this portfolio. A decrease in
interest rates has the effect of reducing our future annual interest income from
this portfolio, since funds would be re-invested at lower rates as the
instruments mature. Over time, any net percentage decrease in interest rates
could be reflected in a corresponding net percentage decrease in our interest
income. During 1999 and 2000, the impact of interest rate fluctuations, changed
business prospects and all other factors did not have a material impact on the
fair value of the portfolio, or on our income derived from this portfolio.
We currently have accumulated net unrealized losses on certain of our
investments as disclosed on our accompanying balance sheets. There can be no
assurance that the accumulated net unrealized losses will not increase or that
some or all of these losses will not have to be recorded as charges to earnings
in future periods. We have not used derivative financial instruments for
speculative purposes. We have not hedged or otherwise protected against the
risks associated with any of our investing or financing activities.
As of December 31, 2000, we estimated the fair value of our fixed-rate
debt and mortgages and other notes payable to be approximately $3 billion using
quoted market prices where available, or discounted cash flow analyses. The fair
value of our fixed rate debt and mortgages is affected by fluctuations in
interest rates. A hypothetical 10% decrease in assumed interest rates would
increase the fair value of our debt by approximately $156 million. To the extent
interest rates increase, our costs of financing would increase at such time as
we are required to refinance our debt.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
Our Consolidated Financial Statements are included in this report
beginning on page F-1.
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None.
16
19
PART IV
ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
(a) The following documents are filed as part of this report:
(1) Financial Statements PAGE
----
Report of Independent Public Accountants........................................................... F-2
Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 1999 and 2000.......................................... F-3
Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss for the years ended
December 31, 1998, 1999 and 2000................................................................ F-4
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholder's Deficit for the years ended
December 31, 1998, 1999 and 2000................................................................ F-5
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 1998, 1999
and 2000........................................................................................ F-6
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements......................................................... F-7
(2) Financial Statement Schedules
None. All schedules have been included in the Consolidated Financial Statements or Notes thereto.
(3) Exhibits
Exhibit No. Description
3.1(a)* Articles of Incorporation of the Company (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 3.1(a) to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-4,
Registration No. 333-52756).
3.1(b)* Bylaws of the Company (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1(b) to
the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-4, Registration No.
333-52756).
4.1* Indenture relating to the Seven Year Notes, dated as of January 25,
1999, by and among EDBS, the Guarantors and U.S. Bank Trust National
Association, as trustee.(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to
EDBS' Registration Statement on Form S-4, Registration No. 333-71345).
4.2* Indenture relating to the Ten Year Notes, dated as of January 25, 1999,
by and among EDBS, the Guarantors and U.S. Bank Trust National
Association, as trustee. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to
EDBS' Registration Statement on Form S-4, Registration No. 333-71345).
4.3* Registration Rights Agreement relating to the Seven Year Notes by and
among EDBS, the Guarantors and the parties named therein. (incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 4.5 to EDBS' Registration Statement on Form
S-4, Registration No. 333-71345).
4.4* Registration Rights Agreement relating to the Ten Year Notes by and
among EDBS, the Guarantors and the parties named therein. (incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 4.6 to EDBS' Registration Statement on Form
S-4, Registration No. 333-71345).
4.5* Indenture dated as of September 25, 2000, between the Company and U.S.
Bank Trust National Association, as trustee (incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 4.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of EchoStar for the
quarter ended September 30, 2000, Commission File No.0-26176).
4.6* Registration Rights Agreement dated as of September 25, 2000, by and
among the Company, Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette Securities Corporation,
Banc of America Securities LLC, Credit Suisse First Boston Corporation
and ING Barings LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of EchoStar for the quarter ended
September 30, 2000, Commission File No.0-26176).
17
20
10.1* Key Employee Bonus Plan, dated as of January 1, 1994 (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 of
Dish, Registration No. 33-76450).
10.2* Consulting Agreement, dated as of February 17, 1994, between ESC and
Telesat Canada (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to the
Registration Statement on Form S-1 of Dish, Registration No. 33-76450).
10.3* Form of Satellite Launch Insurance Declarations (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.10 to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 of
Dish, Registration No. 33-81234).
10.4* Dish 1994 Stock Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.11 to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 of Dish, Registration
No. 33-76450).
10.5* Form of Tracking, Telemetry and Control Contract between AT&T Corp. and
ESC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12 to the Registration
Statement on Form S-1 of Dish, Registration No. 33-81234).
10.6* Manufacturing Agreement, dated as of March 22, 1995, between Houston
Tracker Systems, Inc. and SCI Technology, Inc. (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.12 to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 of
Dish, Commission File No. 33-81234).
10.7* Statement of Work, dated January 31, 1995 from ESC to Divicom Inc.
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.14 to the Registration
Statement on Form S-1 of ECC, Registration No. 33-91276).
10.8* EchoStar 1995 Stock Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.16 to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 of ECC,
Registration No. 33-91276).
10.9* Satellite Construction Contract, dated as of July 18, 1996, between
EDBS and Lockheed Martin Corporation (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.18 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of ECC for the
quarter ended June 30, 1996, Commission File No. 0-26176).
10.10* Confidential Amendment to Satellite Construction Contract between DBSC
and Martin Marietta, dated as of May 31, 1995 (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.14 to the Registration Statement of Form S-4 of
ECC, Registration No. 333-03584).
10.11* Agreement between HTS, ESC and ExpressVu Inc., dated January 8, 1997,
as amended (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.18 to the Annual
Report on Form 10-K of ECC for the year ended December 31, 1996, as
amended, Commission file No. 0-26176).
10.12* Amendment No. 9 to Satellite Construction Contract, effective as of
July 18, 1996, between Direct Satellite Broadcasting Corporation, a
Delaware corporation ("DBSC") and Martin Marietta Corporation
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q of ECC for the quarterly period ended June 30, 1997,
Commission File No. 0-26176).
10.13* Amendment No. 10 to Satellite Construction Contract, effective as of
May 31, 1996, between DBSC and Lockheed Martin Corporation
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q of ECC for the quarterly period ended June 30, 1997,
Commission File No. 0-26176).
10.14* OEM Manufacturing, Marketing and Licensing Agreement, dated as of
February 17, 1998, by and among HTS, ESC and Philips Electronics North
America Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of ECC for the quarterly period ended
March 31, 1998, Commission File No. 0-26176).
10.15* Licensing Agreement, dated as of February 23, 1998, by and among HTS,
ESC and VTech Communications Ltd. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.2 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of ECC for quarterly period
ended March 31, 1998, Commission File No. 0-26176).
18
21
10.16* Purchase Agreement by and among American Sky Broadcasting, LLC, The
News Corporation Limited, MCI Telecommunications Corporation and
EchoStar Communications Corporation, dated November 30, 1998.
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Form 8-K filed by ECC
on November 30, 1998, Commission File No. 0-26176).
10.17* Voting Agreement dated November 30, 1998, among EchoStar Communications
Corporation, American Sky Broadcasting, LLC, The News Corporation
Limited and MCI Telecommunications Corporation (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of
EchoStar, filed as of December 1, 1998).
10.18* First Amendment, dated June 23, 1999, to the Purchase Agreement dated
November 30, 1998, by and among American Sky Broadcasting, LLC, The
News Corporation Limited, MCI Telecommunications Corporation, and
EchoStar Communications Corporation (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of EchoStar, filed as of
July 2, 1999, Commission File No. 0-26176).
10.19* Registration Rights Agreement, dated June 24, 1999, by and among
EchoStar Communications Corporation, MCI Telecommunications
Corporation, American Sky Broadcasting, LLC, and News America
Incorporated (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Current
Report on Form 8-K of EchoStar, filed as of July 2, 1999, Commission
File No. 0-26176).
10.20* Satellite Construction Contract dated as of January 27, 2000, between
EchoStar Orbital Corporation and Lockheed Martin Corporation
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q of EchoStar for the quarter ended March 31, 2000, Commission
File No.0-26176).
10.21* Satellite Construction Contract dated as of February 4, 2000, between
EchoStar Orbital Corporation and Space Systems/Loral Inc. (incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of
EchoStar for the quarter ended March 31, 2000, Commission File
No.0-26176).
10.22* Satellite Construction Contract dated as of February 22, 2000, between
EchoStar Orbital Corporation and Space Systems/Loral Inc. (incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of
EchoStar for the quarter ended March 31, 2000, Commission File
No.0-26176).
10.23* Agreement dated as of February 22, 2000, between EchoStar Orbital
Corporation and Loral Skynet, a division of Loral SpaceCom Corporation
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q of EchoStar for the quarter ended March 31, 2000, Commission
File No.0-26176).
- ----------
* Incorporated by reference.
** Constitutes a management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.
(b) Reports on Form 8-K
No reports on Form 8-K were filed during the fourth quarter of
2000.
19
22
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, EchoStar has duly caused this report to be signed on its
behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
By: /s/ Michael R. McDonnell
------------------------------------------------------
Michael R. McDonnell
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Date: March 30, 2001
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,
this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of EchoStar
and in the capacities and on the dates indicated:
Signature Title Date
- ---------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------- --------------
/s/ Charles W. Ergen Chief Executive Officer and Director March 30, 2001
- ---------------------------------- (Principal Executive Officer)
Charles W. Ergen
/s/ Michael R. McDonnell Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer March 30, 2001
- ---------------------------------- (Principal Financial Officer)
Michael R. McDonnell
/s/ James DeFranco Director March 30, 2001
- ----------------------------------
James DeFranco
/s/ David K. Moskowitz Director March 30, 2001
- ----------------------------------
David K. Moskowitz
* By: /s/ David K. Moskowitz
-----------------------
David K. Moskowitz
Attorney-in-Fact
20
23
INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
PAGE
----
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS:
Report of Independent Public Accountants.................................................................. F-2
Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 1999 and 2000................................................. F-3
Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss for the years ended
December 31, 1998, 1999 and 2000........................................................................ F-4
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholder's Deficit for the years ended
December 31, 1998, 1999 and 2000........................................................................ F-5
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 1998, 1999 and 2000................ F-6
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements................................................................ F-7
F-1
24
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
To EchoStar Broadband Corporation:
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of
EchoStar Broadband Corporation (a Colorado corporation) and subsidiaries as of
December 31, 1999 and 2000, and the related consolidated statements of
operations and comprehensive loss, changes in stockholder's deficit and cash
flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2000. These
financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our
responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on
our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally
accepted in the United States. Those standards require that we plan and perform
the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements
are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis,
evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An
audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant
estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial
statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis
for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present
fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of
EchoStar Broadband Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1999 and
2000, and the consolidated results of their operations and their cash flows for
each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2000, in conformity
with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.
ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP
Denver, Colorado,
March 6, 2001.
F-2
25
ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Dollars in thousands)
DECEMBER 31,
----------------------------
1999 2000
----------- -----------
ASSETS
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents .......................................................... $ 159,762 $ 657,592
Marketable investment securities ................................................... 24,774 370,595
Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for uncollectible accounts of
$13,109 and $19,934, respectively ................................................ 157,944 276,081
Insurance receivable ............................................................... 106,000 106,000
Inventories ........................................................................ 123,184 159,665
Other current assets ............................................................... 27,027 33,919
----------- -----------
Total current assets .................................................................. 598,691 1,603,852
Cash reserved for satellite insurance (Note 3) ........................................ -- 82,393
Property and equipment, net ........................................................... 1,314,007 1,474,265
FCC authorizations, net ............................................................... 722,234 709,817
Other noncurrent assets ............................................................... 95,276 95,549
----------- -----------
Total assets ..................................................................... $ 2,730,208 $ 3,965,876
=========== ===========
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDER'S DEFICIT
Current Liabilities:
Trade accounts payable ............................................................. $ 187,703 $ 144,263
Deferred revenue ................................................................... 181,034 282,939
Accrued expenses ................................................................... 483,635 643,359
Advances from affiliates, net ...................................................... 272,440 832,334
Current portion of long-term debt .................................................. 21,017 19,642
----------- -----------
Total current liabilities ............................................................. 1,145,829 1,922,537
Long-term obligations, net of current portion:
9 1/4% Seven Year Notes ............................................................ 375,000 375,000
9 3/8% Ten Year Notes .............................................................. 1,625,000 1,625,000
10 3/8% Seven Year Notes ........................................................... -- 1,000,000
1994 Notes, 1996 Notes, 1997 Notes, mortgages and other notes payable, net of
current portion .................................................................. 28,060 11,644
Long-term deferred distribution and carriage revenue and other long-term
liabilities ...................................................................... 18,812 56,047
----------- -----------
Total long-term obligations, net of current portion ................................... 2,046,872 3,067,691
----------- -----------
Total liabilities ................................................................ 3,192,701 4,990,228
Commitments and Contingencies (Note 8)
Stockholder's Deficit:
Common Stock, $.01 par value, 100,000 shares authorized; 1,000 shares, issued
and outstanding .................................................................. -- --
Additional paid-in capital ......................................................... 1,448,325 1,440,253
Deferred stock-based compensation .................................................. (117,780) (58,193)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss ............................................... -- (1,150)
Accumulated deficit ................................................................ (1,793,038) (2,405,262)
----------- -----------
Total stockholder's deficit ........................................................... (462,493) (1,024,352)
----------- -----------
Total liabilities and stockholder's deficit ........................................... $ 2,730,208 $ 3,965,876
=========== ===========
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
F-3
26
ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE LOSS
(In thousands)
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
---------------------------------------------
1998 1999 2000
----------- ----------- -----------
REVENUE:
DISH Network:
Subscription television services .................................. $ 669,310 $ 1,343,234 $ 2,342,358
Other ............................................................. 12,799 9,369 8,482
----------- ----------- -----------
Total DISH Network .................................................. 682,109 1,352,603 2,350,840
DTH equipment sales and integration services ........................ 253,841 178,325 255,925
Satellite services .................................................. 22,304 40,657 53,267
Other ............................................................... 27,655 34,706 48,882
----------- ----------- -----------
Total revenue .......................................................... 985,909 1,606,291 2,708,914
COSTS AND EXPENSES:
DISH Network Operating Expenses:
Subscriber-related expenses ....................................... 298,443 580,979 981,403
Customer service center and other ................................. 72,482 117,249 250,672
Satellite and transmission ........................................ 26,067 40,083 36,178
----------- ----------- -----------
Total DISH Network operating expenses ............................... 396,992 738,311 1,268,253
Cost of sales - DTH equipment and integration services .............. 174,615 149,527 196,908
Cost of sales - other ............................................... 16,496 17,076 32,978
Marketing:
Subscriber promotion subsidies - promotional DTH
equipment ....................................................... 243,425 478,122 747,020
Subscriber promotion subsidies - other ............................ 40,269 199,405 290,197
Advertising and other ............................................. 47,986 64,660 138,202
----------- ----------- -----------
Total marketing expenses ............................................ 331,680 742,187 1,175,419
General and administrative .......................................... 94,824 141,668 234,050
Non-cash, stock-based compensation .................................. -- 61,060 51,465
Amortization of subscriber acquisition costs ........................ 18,819 -- --
Depreciation and amortization ....................................... 83,338 110,031 174,607
----------- ----------- -----------
Total costs and expenses ............................................... 1,116,764 1,959,860 3,133,680
----------- ----------- -----------
Operating loss ......................................................... (130,855) (353,569) (424,766)
Other Income (Expense):
Interest income ..................................................... 10,111 12,566 31,283
Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized ........................ (172,942) (196,390) (216,377)
Other ............................................................... (618) (24,892) (2,239)
----------- ----------- -----------
Total other income (expense) ........................................... (163,449) (208,716) (187,333)
----------- ----------- -----------
Loss before income taxes ............................................... (294,304) (562,285) (612,099)
Income tax provision, net .............................................. (71) (131) (125)
----------- ----------- -----------
Loss before extraordinary charges ...................................... (294,375) (562,416) (612,224)
Extraordinary charge for early retirement of debt, net of tax .......... -- (228,733) --
----------- ----------- -----------
Net loss ............................................................... $ (294,375) $ (791,149) $ (612,224)
=========== =========== ===========
Change in unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities,
net of tax .......................................................... 8 -- (1,150)
----------- ----------- -----------
Comprehensive loss ..................................................... $ (294,367) $ (791,149) $ (613,374)
=========== =========== ===========
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
F-4
27
ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDER'S DEFICIT
(In thousands)
DEFERRED ACCUMULATED
STOCK- DEFICIT AND
COMMON STOCK ADDITIONAL BASED UNREALIZED
----------------- PAID-IN COMPEN- HOLDING GAINS
SHARES AMT. CAPITAL SATION (LOSSES) TOTAL
----------------- ------------- ------------ ------------- ------------
Balance, December 31, 1997 ..................... 1 $ -- $ 125,165 $ -- $ (438,934) $ (313,769)
Contribution of satellite asset ............. -- -- 20,000 -- -- 20,000
Unrealized holding gains on
available-for-sale securities, net ........ -- -- -- -- 8 8
Net loss .................................... -- -- -- -- (294,375) (294,375)
------- ----- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Balance, December 31, 1998 ..................... 1 -- 145,165 -- (733,301) (588,136)
Contribution of satellite assets
acquired by ECC from News Corporation
and MCI ................................... -- -- 1,124,320 -- -- 1,124,320
Deferred stock-based compensation
funded by ECC ............................. -- -- 178,840 (178,840) -- --
Deferred stock-based compensation
recognized ................................ -- -- -- 61,060 -- 61,060
Capital contribution to ECC ................. -- -- -- -- (268,588) (268,588)
Net loss .................................... -- -- -- -- (791,149) (791,149)
------- ----- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Balance, December 31, 1999 ..................... 1 -- 1,448,325 (117,780) (1,793,038) (462,493)
Forfeitures of deferred non-cash,
stock-based compensation .................. -- -- (8,072) 6,730 -- (1,342)
Deferred stock-based compensation
recognized ................................ -- -- -- 52,857 -- 52,857
Unrealized holding losses on
available-for-sale securities, net ........ -- -- -- -- (1,150) (1,150)
Net loss .................................... -- -- -- -- (612,224) (612,224)
------- ----- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Balance, December 31, 2000 ..................... 1 $ -- $ 1,440,253 $ (58,193) $(2,406,412) $(1,024,352)
======= ===== =========== =========== =========== ===========
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
F-5
28
ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
-----------------------------------------
1998 1999 2000
----------- ----------- -----------
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net loss ............................................................................ $ (294,375) $ (791,149) $ (612,224)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash flows from operating activities:
Extraordinary charge for early retirement of debt ................................ -- 228,733 --
Loss on impairment of satellite (Note 3) ......................................... -- 13,741 --
Loss on disposal of assets ....................................................... -- 9,846 1,374
Deferred stock-based compensation recognized ..................................... -- 61,060 51,465
Depreciation and amortization .................................................... 83,338 110,031 173,233
Amortization of subscriber acquisition costs ..................................... 18,819 -- --
Interest on notes payable to ECC added to principal .............................. 5,215 330 --
Amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs ....................... 125,724 13,440 3,649
Change in reserve for excess and obsolete inventory .............................. 1,341 (1,301) 5,962
Change in long-term deferred satellite services revenue and other long-term
liabilities ..................................................................... 13,858 10,173 37,236
Superstar exclusivity fee ........................................................ -- (10,000) 3,611
Other, net ....................................................................... -- -- (435)
Changes in current assets and current liabilities:
Trade accounts receivable, net ................................................. (41,698) (50,201) (118,137)
Inventories .................................................................... (55,056) (45,175) (41,160)
Other current assets ........................................................... (11,611) 2,373 (4,679)
Trade accounts payable ......................................................... 21,526 97,141 (43,440)
Deferred revenue ............................................................... 10,642 48,177 101,905
Accrued expenses ............................................................... 68,328 217,727 205,668
----------- ----------- -----------
Net cash flows from operating activities ............................................ (53,949) (85,054) (235,972)
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchases of marketable investment securities ....................................... (8,970) (186,866) (366,746)
Sales of marketable investment securities ........................................... 5,868 169,092 19,775
Cash reserved for satellite insurance (Note 3) ...................................... -- -- (82,393)
Funds released from escrow and restricted cash and marketable investment
securities ......................................................................... 116,468 77,657 --
Offering proceeds and investment earnings placed in escrow .......................... (6,343) -- --
Purchases of property and equipment ................................................. (153,513) (87,597) (320,398)
Advances and payments under in-orbit satellite contract ............................. -- 67,804 (48,894)
Other ............................................................................... 3,150 (1,318) --
----------- ----------- -----------
Net cash flows from investing activities ............................................ (43,340) 38,772 (798,656)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Advances from affiliates ............................................................ 77,090 217,635 559,894
Proceeds from issuance of 9 1/4% Seven Year Notes ................................... -- 375,000 --
Proceeds from issuance of 9 3/8% Ten Year Notes ..................................... -- 1,625,000 --
Proceeds from issuance of 10 3/8% Seven Year Notes .................................. -- -- 1,000,000
Debt issuance costs and prepayment premiums ......................................... -- (233,721) (9,645)
Retirement of 1994 Notes ............................................................ -- (575,674) --
Retirement of 1996 Notes ............................................................ -- (501,350) --
Retirement of 1997 Notes ............................................................ -- (378,110) --
Capital contribution to ECC ......................................................... -- (268,588) --
Repayment of note payable to ECC .................................................... -- (60,142) --
Repayments of mortgage indebtedness and other notes payable ......................... (16,552) (22,180) (15,176)
Other ............................................................................... -- 2,865 (2,615)
----------- ----------- -----------
Net cash flows from financing activities ............................................ 60,538 180,735 1,532,458
----------- ----------- -----------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents ................................ (36,751) 134,453 497,830
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year ........................................ 62,060 25,309 159,762
----------- ----------- -----------
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year .............................................. $ 25,309 $ 159,762 $ 657,592
=========== =========== ===========
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
F-6
29
ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. ORGANIZATION AND BUSINESS ACTIVITIES
Basis of Presentation
EchoStar Broadband Corporation ("EBC" or the "Company") is a wholly
owned subsidiary of EchoStar Communications Corporation ("ECC" and together with
its subsidiaries "EchoStar"), a publicly traded company on the Nasdaq National
Market. EBC was formed on September 11, 2000 for the purpose of completing a
private offering (the "EBC Notes Offering"), pursuant to Rule 144A of the
Securities Act of 1933, as amended of 10 3/8% Senior Notes due 2007 (the
"10 3/8% Seven Year Notes"), resulting in net proceeds of approximately $990
million. The EBC Notes Offering was consummated on September 25, 2000. In
connection with the EBC Notes Offering, EchoStar contributed all of the
outstanding capital stock of its wholly owned subsidiaries, EchoStar DBS
Corporation ("EDBS") and EchoStar Orbital Corporation ("EOC"), to EBC concurrent
with the closing of the offering. EOC did not generate any revenue or incur any
expenses during the year ended December 31, 2000 and its activity during that
period consisted solely of progress payments on certain satellites. EOC had no
operations prior to its formation on January 27, 2000. This transaction has been
accounted for as a reorganization of entities under common control similar to a
pooling of interests.
Principal Business
Unless otherwise stated herein, or the context otherwise requires,
references herein to EchoStar shall include ECC, EBC, EDBS and all direct and
indirect wholly-owned subsidiaries thereof. The operations of EchoStar include
three interrelated business units:
o The DISH Network - a direct broadcast satellite ("DBS")
subscription television service in the United States. As of
December 31, 2000, we had approximately 5.26 million DISH
Network subscribers.
o EchoStar Technologies Corporation ("ETC") - engaged in the
design, development, distribution and sale of DBS set-top
boxes, antennae and other digital equipment for the DISH
Network ("EchoStar receiver systems"), the design, development
and distribution of similar equipment for international
direct-to-home ("DTH") satellite and other systems and the
provision of uplink center design, construction oversight and
other project integration services for international DTH
ventures.
o Satellite Services - engaged in the delivery of video, audio
and data services to business television customers and other
satellite users. These services may include satellite uplink
services, satellite transponder space usage, billing, customer
service and other services.
Since 1994, EchoStar has deployed substantial resources to develop the
"EchoStar DBS System." The EchoStar DBS System consists of EchoStar's
FCC-allocated DBS spectrum, six DBS satellites ("EchoStar I," "EchoStar II,"
"EchoStar III," "EchoStar IV," "EchoStar V," and "EchoStar VI"), EchoStar
receiver systems, digital broadcast operations centers, customer service
facilities, and other assets utilized in its operations. EchoStar's principal
business strategy is to continue developing its subscription television service
in the United States to provide consumers with a fully competitive alternative
to cable television service.
Organization and Legal Structure
In December 1995, ECC merged Dish, Ltd. with a wholly-owned subsidiary
of ECC. During 1999, EchoStar placed ownership of all of its direct broadcast
satellites and related FCC licenses into EchoStar Satellite Corporation.
DirectSat Corporation, Direct Broadcasting Satellite Corporation and EchoStar
Space Corporation were merged into ESC. Dish, Ltd. and EchoStar Satellite
Broadcasting Company were merged into EDBS. EchoStar IV and the related FCC
licenses were transferred to ESC. Contracts for the construction and launch of
EchoStar VII, EchoStar VIII and EchoStar IX are held in EchoStar Orbital
Corporation. Substantially all of EchoStar's operations are conducted by
subsidiaries of EBC.
F-7
30
ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED
The following table summarizes the organizational structure of EchoStar
and its principal subsidiaries as of December 31, 2000:
REFERRED TO
LEGAL ENTITY HEREIN AS PARENT
- ----------------------------------- ------------ --------------
EchoStar Communications Corporation ECC Publicly owned
EchoStar Broadband Corporation EBC ECC
EchoStar DBS Corporation EDBS EBC
EchoStar Orbital Corporation EOC EBC
EchoStar Satellite Corporation ESC EDBS
Echosphere Corporation Echosphere EDBS
EchoStar Technologies Corporation ETC EDBS
Significant Risks and Uncertainties
Substantial Leverage. The Company is highly leveraged, which makes it
vulnerable to changes in general economic conditions. As of December 31, 2000,
EchoStar had outstanding long-term debt (including both the current and
long-term portions) totaling approximately $3.0 billion. In August 1999, the
Company began paying semi-annual interest payments of approximately $94 million
related to its 9 1/4% Senior Notes due 2006 (the "9 1/4% Seven Year Notes") and
its 9 3/8% Senior Notes due 2009 (the "9 3/8% Ten Year Notes"). Further,
beginning in April 2001, the Company will have semi-annual interest payments due
on its 10 3/8% Senior Notes due 2007 (the "10 3/8% Seven Year Notes") of
approximately $52 million. The Company's ability to meet its debt service
obligations will depend on, among other factors, the successful execution of its
business strategy, which is subject to uncertainties and contingencies beyond
the Company's control.
Expected Operating Losses. Since 1996, the Company has reported
significant operating and net losses. Improvements in the Company's future
results of operations are largely dependent upon its ability to increase its
customer base while maintaining its overall cost structure, controlling
subscriber turnover and effectively managing its subscriber acquisition costs.
No assurance can be given that the Company will be effective with regard to
these matters. In addition, the Company incurs significant acquisition costs to
obtain DISH Network subscribers. The high cost of obtaining new subscribers
magnifies the negative effects of subscriber turnover.
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Principles of Consolidation
The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts
of the Company and all of its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All significant
intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. At December 31,
1998, 1999 and 2000, these equity and cost method investments were not material
to the Company's consolidated financial statements.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and
disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial
statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses for each reporting
period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
F-8
31
ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED
Foreign Currency Transaction Gains and Losses
The functional currency of the Company's foreign subsidiaries is the
U.S. dollar because their sales and purchases are predominantly denominated in
that currency. Transactions denominated in currencies other than U.S. dollars
are recorded based on exchange rates at the time such transactions arise.
Subsequent changes in exchange rates result in transaction gains and losses
which are reflected in income as unrealized (based on period-end translation) or
realized (upon settlement of the transaction). Net transaction gains (losses)
during 1998, 1999 and 2000 were not material to the Company's results of
operations.
Statements of Cash Flows Data
The following presents the Company's supplemental cash flow statement
disclosure (in thousands):
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
----------------------------------------
1998 1999 2000
---------- ---------- ----------
Cash paid for interest ....................................... $ 57,706 $ 126,172 $ 188,911
Cash paid for income taxes ................................... 83 119 361
Capitalized interest ......................................... 21,619 -- 5,343
Satellite vendor financing ................................... 12,950 -- --
Contribution of satellite asset .............................. 20,000 -- --
Assets acquired from News Corporation and MCI:
FCC licenses and other .................................... -- 626,120 --
Satellites ................................................ -- 451,200 --
Digital broadcast operations center ....................... -- 47,000 --
Capital contribution from ECC ................................ -- 1,124,320 --
Forfeitures of deferred non-cash, stock-based compensation ... -- -- 8,072
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company considers all liquid investments purchased with an original
maturity of 90 days or less to be cash equivalents. Cash equivalents as of
December 31, 1999 and 2000 consist of money market funds, corporate notes and
commercial paper; such balances are stated at cost which approximates market
value.
Marketable Investment Securities and Restricted Cash and Marketable Investment
Securities
As of December 31, 1999 and 2000, the Company has classified all
marketable investment securities as available-for-sale. The fair market value of
marketable investment securities approximates the carrying value and represents
the quoted market prices at the balance sheet dates. Related unrealized gains
and losses are reported as a separate component of stockholder's deficit, net of
related deferred income taxes, if applicable. The specific identification method
is used to determine cost in computing realized gains and losses. Such
unrealized losses totaled $1.15 million as of December 31, 2000. In accordance
with generally accepted accounting principles, unrealized losses which represent
an "other than temporary impairment" must be recognized in the statement of
operations, establishing a new cost basis for such investment. No such "other
than temporary impairment" was recognized as of December 31, 2000. However, an
"other than temporary impairment" could be recognized in 2001 if the fair value
of such investments do not increase to their original cost basis.
F-9
32
ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED
The major components of marketable investment securities are as follow
(in thousands):
MARKETABLE INVESTMENT SECURITIES
DECEMBER 31,
--------------------------------
1999 2000
----------- -----------
Commercial paper ............. $ 9,053 $292,468
Corporate notes and bonds .... 7,742 73,135
Government bonds ............. 7,979 4,992
-------- --------
$ 24,774 $370,595
======== ========
As of December 31, 2000, marketable investment securities include debt
securities of $366 million with contractual maturities of one year or less and
$5 million with contractual maturities between one and five years. Actual
maturities may differ from contractual maturities as a result of the Company's
ability to sell these securities prior to maturity.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Fair values for the Company's high-yield debt are based on quoted
market prices. The fair values of EchoStar's mortgages and other notes payable
are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses. The interest rates assumed in
such discounted cash flow analyses reflect interest rates currently being
offered for loans with similar terms to borrowers of similar credit quality.
The following table summarizes the book and fair values of the
Company's debt facilities at December 31, 1999 and 2000 (in thousands):
DECEMBER 31, 1999 DECEMBER 31, 2000
------------------------- -------------------------
BOOK VALUE FAIR VALUE BOOK VALUE FAIR VALUE
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
9 1/4% Seven Year Notes ................... $ 375,000 $ 377,813 $ 375,000 $ 365,625
9 3/8% Ten Year Notes ..................... 1,625,000 1,637,188 1,625,000 1,584,375
10 3/8% Seven Year Notes .................. -- -- 1,000,000 985,000
1994 Notes, 1996 Notes, 1997 Notes,
mortgages and other notes payable ...... 49,077 48,680 31,286 30,837
F-10
33
ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED
Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market value. Cost is
determined using the first-in, first-out method. Proprietary products are
manufactured by outside suppliers to the Company's specifications. Manufactured
inventories include materials, labor and manufacturing overhead. Cost of other
inventories includes parts, contract manufacturers' delivered price, assembly
and testing labor, and related overhead, including handling and storage costs.
Inventories consist of the following (in thousands):
DECEMBER 31,
------------------------
1999 2000
--------- ---------
Finished goods - DBS ......................... $ 63,054 $ 94,997
Raw materials ................................ 35,751 40,069
Finished goods - reconditioned and other ..... 19,509 23,101
Work-in-process .............................. 7,666 8,879
Consignment .................................. 1,084 2,461
Reserve for excess and obsolete inventory .... (3,880) (9,842)
--------- ---------
$ 123,184 $ 159,665
========= =========
During December 1999, the Company provided for losses of $16.6 million,
primarily for component parts and purchase commitments related to its first
generation model 7100 set-top boxes. Production of model 7100 was suspended in
favor of its second generation model 7200 set-top boxes.
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment are stated at cost. Cost includes interest
capitalized of $16 million and $5 million during the years ended December 31,
1998 and 2000, respectively. No interest was capitalized during 1999. The costs
of satellites under construction are capitalized during the construction phase,
assuming the eventual successful launch and in-orbit operation of the satellite.
If a satellite were to fail during launch or while in-orbit, the resultant loss
would be charged to expense in the period such loss was incurred. The amount of
any such loss would be reduced to the extent of insurance proceeds received as a
result of the launch or in-orbit failure. Depreciation is recorded on a
straight-line basis for financial reporting purposes. Repair and maintenance
costs are charged to expense when incurred. Renewals and betterments are
capitalized.
The Company reviews its long-lived assets and identifiable intangible
assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that
the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. For assets which are
held and used in operations, the asset would be impaired if the book value of
the asset exceeded the undiscounted future net cash flows related to the asset.
For those assets which are to be disposed of, the assets would be impaired to
the extent the fair value does not exceed the book value. The Company considers
relevant cash flow, estimated future operating results, trends and other
available information including the fair value of frequency rights owned, in
assessing whether the carrying value of assets are recoverable.
FCC Authorizations
FCC authorizations are recorded at cost and amortized using the
straight-line method over a period of 40 years. Such amortization commences at
the time the related satellite becomes operational; capitalized costs are
written off at the time efforts to provide services are abandoned. FCC
authorizations include capitalized interest of $6 million during the year ended
December 31, 1998. No interest was capitalized to FCC authorizations during 1999
or 2000.
F-11
34
ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED
Revenue Recognition
Revenue from the provision of DISH Network subscription television
services and satellite services is recognized as revenue in the period such
services are provided. Revenue from sales of digital set-top boxes and related
accessories is recognized upon shipment to customers. Revenue from the provision
of integration services is recognized as revenue in the period the services are
performed.
In December 1999, the Securities and Exchange Commission issued Staff
Accounting Bulletin No. 101 or SAB 101, "Views on Selected Revenue Recognition
Issues." SAB 101 provides guidance on applying generally accepted accounting
principles to selected revenue recognition issues. The provisions of SAB 101 and
certain related EITF consensuses were required to be adopted in the quarter
ended December 31, 2000 retroactive to January 1, 2000, with any cumulative
effect as of January 1, 2000 reported as a cumulative effect of a change in
accounting principle. The Company's adoption of SAB 101 resulted in no
recognition of a cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle.
Subscriber Promotion Subsidies and Subscriber Acquisition Costs
Subscriber promotion subsidies - promotional DTH equipment includes the
cost of Echostar receiver systems distributed to retailers and other
distributors of Echostar's equipment. Subscriber promotion subsidies - other
includes net costs related to various installation promotions and other
promotional incentives. Accordingly, subscriber acquisition costs are generally
expensed as incurred except for under EchoStar's Digital Dynamite Plan which was
initiated during 2000 wherein the Company retains title to the receiver system
equipment resulting in the capitalization and depreciation of such equipment
over its estimated useful life.
Deferred Debt Issuance Costs and Debt Discount
Costs of issuing debt are deferred and amortized to interest expense
over the terms of the respective notes.
Deferred Revenue
Deferred revenue principally consists of prepayments received from
subscribers for DISH Network programming. Such amounts are recognized as revenue
in the period the programming is provided to the subscriber.
Long-Term Deferred Distribution and Carriage Revenue
Long-term deferred distribution and carriage revenue consists of
advance payments from certain content providers for carriage of their signal on
the DISH Network. Such amounts are deferred and recognized as revenue on a
straight-line basis over the related contract terms (up to ten years).
F-12
35
ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED
Accrued Expenses
Accrued expenses consist of the following (in thousands):
DECEMBER 31,
---------------------
1999 2000
-------- --------
Programming ...................................................... $ 59,769 $176,566
Interest ......................................................... 78,460 107,624
Royalties and copyright fees ..................................... 87,390 106,459
Marketing ........................................................ 88,204 86,861
Advances from News Corporation and MCI for satellite payments .... 67,804 18,910
Other ............................................................ 102,008 146,940
-------- --------
$483,635 $643,360
======== ========
Research and Development Costs
Research and development costs are expensed as incurred. Research and
development costs totaled $8 million, $10 million and $17 million for the years
ended December 31, 1998, 1999, and 2000, respectively.
Comprehensive Loss
The change in unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities
is the only component of the Company's other comprehensive loss. Accumulated
other comprehensive loss presented on the accompanying consolidated balance
sheets consists of the accumulated net unrealized loss on available-for-sale
securities, net of deferred taxes.
Reclassifications
Certain prior year balances in the consolidated financial statements
have been reclassified to conform with the 2000 presentation.
3. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Property and equipment consist of the following (in thousands):
DECEMBER 31,
LIFE ----------------------------
(IN YEARS) 1999 2000
---------- ----------- -----------
EchoStar I ........................... 12 $ 201,607 $ 201,607
EchoStar II .......................... 12 228,694 228,694
EchoStar III ......................... 12 234,083 234,083
EchoStar IV .......................... 4 89,505 89,505
EchoStar V ........................... 12 208,578 208,548
EchoStar VI .......................... 12 -- 243,789
Furniture, fixtures and equipment .... 2-12 241,527 329,513
Buildings and improvements ........... 7-40 47,745 52,191
Digital Dynamite Plan equipment ...... 4 -- 62,726
Tooling and other .................... 2 5,811 5,211
Land ................................. -- 1,659 3,336
Vehicles ............................. 7 1,119 922
Construction in progress ............. -- 319,308 226,247
----------- -----------
Total property and equipment ..... 1,579,636 1,886,372
Accumulated depreciation ............. (265,629) (412,107)
----------- -----------
Property and equipment, net ...... $ 1,314,007 $ 1,474,265
=========== ===========
F-13
36
ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED
Construction in progress consists of the following (in thousands):
DECEMBER 31,
---------------------
1999 2000
-------- --------
Progress amounts for satellite construction, launch, and launch
insurance:
EchoStar VI ..................................................... $243,633 $ --
EchoStar VII .................................................... -- 76,382
EchoStar VIII ................................................... -- 46,487
EchoStar IX ..................................................... -- 22,215
Digital broadcast operations center .................................. 47,000 39,797
Other ................................................................ 28,675 41,366
-------- --------
$319,308 $226,247
======== ========
Digital Dynamite Plans
During July 2000, we announced the commencement of our new Digital
Dynamite promotion. The Digital Dynamite plans offer four choices to consumers,
ranging from the use of one EchoStar receiver system and our America's Top 100
programming package for $35.99 per month, to providing consumers two EchoStar
receiver systems and our America's Top 150 programming package for $49.99 per
month. With each plan, consumers receive in-home-service, must agree to a
one-year commitment and pay $49.99 up front, which includes the first month's
programming payment. Since the equipment in the Digital Dynamite plans are owned
by us, those equipment costs are capitalized and depreciated over a period of 4
years.
EchoStar III
During the second quarter 2000, two transponder pairs on EchoStar III
malfunctioned. Including the three transponder pairs that malfunctioned during
1998, these anomalies have resulted in the failure of a total of ten
transponders on the satellite to date. While a maximum of 32 transponders can be
operated at any time, the satellite was equipped with a total of 44 transponders
to provide redundancy. As a result of this redundancy and because we are only
licensed by the FCC to operate 11 transponders at the 61.5 degree orbital
location (together with an additional six leased transponders), the transponder
anomalies have not resulted in a loss of service to date. The satellite
manufacturer, Lockheed Martin, has advised us that it believes it has identified
the root cause of the failures, and that while further transponder failures are
possible, based upon the root cause and the operating configuration of the
satellite, Lockheed Martin does not believe it is likely that the operational
capacity of EchoStar III will be reduced below 32 transponders. Lockheed Martin
also believes it is unlikely that our ability to operate at least the 11
licensed frequencies, and the six leased transponders, on the satellite will be
affected. We will continue to evaluate the performance of EchoStar III and may
be required to modify our loss assessment as new events or circumstances
develop.
EchoStar V
EchoStar V is equipped with a total of 48 transponders, including 16
spares. Two transponders on the satellite have failed, the most recent loss
occurring during July 2000. While the failures have not impacted the operational
capacity of the satellite and the satellite manufacturer has advised that the
anomalies are probably unrelated, until the root cause of the most recent
anomaly is finally determined, there can be no assurance future similar
anomalies will not cause further transponder losses which could reduce
operational capacity.
F-14
37
ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED
Satellite Insurance
As a result of the failure of EchoStar IV solar arrays to fully deploy
and the failure of 28 transponders to date, a maximum of approximately 14 of the
44 transponders on EchoStar IV are available for use at this time. Due to the
normal degradation of the solar arrays, the number of available transponders
will further decrease over time. In addition to the transponder and solar array
failures, EchoStar IV experienced anomalies affecting its thermal systems and
propulsion system. There can be no assurance that further material degradation,
or total loss of use, of EchoStar IV will not occur in the immediate future.
In September 1998, EchoStar filed a $219.3 million insurance claim for
a constructive total loss under the launch insurance policies covering EchoStar
IV. The satellite insurance consists of separate identical policies with
different carriers for varying amounts which, in combination, create a total
insured amount of $219.3 million.
The insurance carriers offered EchoStar a total of approximately $88
million, or 40% of the total policy amount, in settlement of the EchoStar IV
insurance claim. The insurers allege that all other impairment to the satellite
occurred after expiration of the policy period and is not covered. EchoStar
strongly disagrees with the position of the insurers and has filed an
arbitration claim against them for breach of contract, failure to pay a valid
insurance claim and bad faith denial of a valid claim, among other things. There
can be no assurance that EchoStar will receive the amount claimed or, if
EchoStar does, that EchoStar will retain title to EchoStar IV with its reduced
capacity.
At the time EchoStar filed its claim in 1998, EchoStar recognized an
impairment loss of $106 million to write-down the carrying value of the
satellite and related costs, and simultaneously recorded an insurance claim
receivable for the same amount. EchoStar continues to believe it will ultimately
recover at least the amount originally recorded and does not intend to adjust
the amount of the receivable until there is greater certainty with respect to
the amount of the final settlement.
As a result of the thermal and propulsion system anomalies, EchoStar
reduced the estimated remaining useful life of EchoStar IV to approximately 4
years during January 2000. This change increased depreciation expense recognized
by EchoStar during the year ending December 31, 2000 by approximately $9.6
million. EchoStar will continue to evaluate the performance of EchoStar IV and
may modify its loss assessment as new events or circumstances develop.
The in-orbit insurance policies for EchoStar I, EchoStar II, and
EchoStar III expired July 25, 2000. The insurers have to date refused to renew
insurance on EchoStar I, EchoStar II and EchoStar III on reasonable terms. Based
on, among other things, the insurance carriers' unanimous refusal to negotiate
reasonable renewal insurance coverage, EchoStar believes that the carriers
colluded and conspired to boycott EchoStar unless EchoStar accepts their offer
to settle the EchoStar IV claim for $88 million.
Based on the carriers' actions, EchoStar has added causes of action in
its EchoStar IV demand for arbitration for breach of the duty of good faith and
fair dealing, and unfair claim practices. Additionally, EchoStar has filed a
lawsuit against the insurance carriers in the United States District Court for
the District of Colorado asserting causes of action for violation of Federal and
State Antitrust laws. While EchoStar believes it is entitled to the full amount
claimed under the EchoStar IV insurance policy and believes the insurance
carriers are in violation of Antitrust laws and have committed further acts of
bad faith in connection with their refusal to negotiate reasonable insurance
coverage on EchoStar's other satellites, there can be no assurance as to the
outcome of these proceedings.
The indentures related to the outstanding senior notes of EDBS contain
restrictive covenants that require EchoStar to maintain satellite insurance with
respect to at least half of the satellites it owns. Insurance coverage is
therefore required for at least three of EchoStar's six satellites currently in
orbit. EchoStar has procured normal and customary launch insurance for EchoStar
VI. This launch insurance policy provides for insurance of $225.0 million. The
EchoStar VI launch insurance policy expires in July 2001. EchoStar is currently
self-insuring EchoStar I,
F-15
38
ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED
EchoStar II, EchoStar III, EchoStar IV and EchoStar V. To satisfy insurance
covenants related to the outstanding EDBS senior notes, as of December 31, 2000,
EchoStar has reclassified approximately $82 million from cash and cash
equivalents to restricted cash and marketable investment securities on its
balance sheet. The reclassification will continue until such time, if ever, as
the insurers are again willing to insure EchoStar's satellites on commercially
reasonable terms.
4. LONG-TERM DEBT
Debt Redemption
Effective July 14, 2000, EDBS redeemed all of its remaining outstanding
12 7/8% Senior Secured Discount Notes Due 2004 (the "1994 Notes"), 13 1/8%
Senior Secured Discount Notes due 2004 (the "1996 Notes"), 12 1/2% Senior
Secured Notes due 2002 (the "1997 Notes") and 12 1/8% Senior Exchange Notes Due
2004 (the "Exchange Notes") totaling approximately $2.6 million.
9 1/4% Seven and 9 3/8% Ten Year Notes
On January 25, 1999, EDBS sold $375 million principal amount of 9 1/4%
Senior Notes due 2006 (the 9 1/4% Seven Year Notes) and $1.625 billion principal
amount of 9 3/8% Senior Notes due 2009 (the 9 3/8% Ten Year Notes). Interest
accrues at annual rates of 9 1/4% and 9 3/8% on the 9 1/4% Seven Year and 9 3/8%
Ten Year Notes, respectively. Interest on the 9 1/4% Seven and 9 3/8% Ten Year
Notes is payable semi-annually in cash in arrears on February 1 and August 1 of
each year, commencing August 1, 1999.
Concurrently with the closing of the 9 1/4% Seven Year Notes and 9 3/8%
Ten Year Notes offering, EDBS used approximately $1.658 billion of net proceeds
received from the sale of the 9 1/4% Seven and 9 3/8% Ten Year Notes to complete
tender offers for its outstanding 1994 Notes, 1996 Notes and 1997 Notes. In
February 1999, EDBS used approximately $268 million of net proceeds received
from the sale of the 9 1/4% Seven and 9 3/8% Ten Year Notes to complete the
tender offers related to the 12 1/8% Senior Exchange Notes due 2004, issued on
January 4, 1999, in exchange for all issued and outstanding 12 1/8% Series B
Senior Redeemable Exchangeable Preferred Stock.
With the exception of certain de minimis domestic and foreign
subsidiaries, the 9 1/4% Seven and 9 3/8% Ten Year Notes are fully,
unconditionally and jointly and severally guaranteed by all subsidiaries of
EDBS. The 9 1/4% Seven and 9 3/8% Ten Year Notes are general senior unsecured
obligations which:
o rank pari passu in right of payment to each other and to all
existing and future senior unsecured obligations;
o rank senior to all existing and future junior obligations; and
o are effectively junior to secured obligations to the extent of
the collateral securing such obligations, including any
borrowings under future secured credit facilities.
Except under certain circumstances requiring prepayment premiums, and
in other limited circumstances, the 9 1/4% Seven and 9 3/8% Ten Year Notes are
not redeemable at EDBS's option prior to February 1, 2003 and February 1, 2004,
respectively. Thereafter, the 9 1/4% Seven Year Notes will be subject to
redemption, at the option of EDBS, in whole or in part, at redemption prices
decreasing from 104.625% during the year commencing February 1, 2003 to 100% on
or after February 1, 2005, together with accrued and unpaid interest thereon to
the redemption date. The 9 3/8% Ten Year Notes will be subject to redemption, at
the option of EDBS, in whole or in part, at redemption prices decreasing from
104.688% during the year commencing February 1, 2004 to 100% on or after
February 1, 2008, together with accrued and unpaid interest thereon to the
redemption date.
F-16
39
ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED
The indentures related to the 9 1/4% Seven and 9 3/8% Ten Year Notes
(the "Seven and Ten Year Notes Indentures") contain restrictive covenants that,
among other things, impose limitations on the ability of EDBS to:
o incur additional indebtedness;
o apply the proceeds of certain asset sales;
o create, incur or assume liens;
o create dividend and other payment restrictions with respect to
EDBS's subsidiaries;
o merge, consolidate or sell assets; and
o enter into transactions with affiliates.
In addition, EDBS may pay dividends on its equity securities only if no
default shall have occurred or is continuing under the Seven and Ten Year Notes
Indentures; and after giving effect to such dividend and the incurrence of any
indebtedness (the proceeds of which are used to finance the dividend), EDBSs'
ratio of total indebtedness to cash flow (calculated in accordance with the
Indentures) would not exceed 8.0 to 1.0. Moreover, the aggregate amount of such
dividends generally may not exceed the sum of the difference of cumulative
consolidated cash flow (calculated in accordance with the Indentures) minus 120%
of consolidated interest expense of EDBS (calculated in accordance with the
Indentures), in each case from April 1, 1999 plus an amount equal to 100% of the
aggregate net cash proceeds received by EDBS and its subsidiaries from the
issuance or sale of certain equity interests of EDBS or EchoStar.
In the event of a change of control, as defined in the Seven and Ten
Year Notes Indentures, EDBS will be required to make an offer to repurchase all
of the 9 1/4% Seven and 9 3/8% Ten Year Notes at a purchase price equal to 101%
of the aggregate principal amount thereof, together with accrued and unpaid
interest thereon, to the date of repurchase.
10 3/8% Seven Year Notes
On September 25, 2000, EBC sold $1 billion principal amount of 10 3/8%
Seven Year Notes due 2007. Interest accrues at an annual rate of 10 3/8% on the
10 3/8% Seven Year Notes and is payable semi-annually in cash, in arrears on
April 1 and October 1 of each year, commencing April 1, 2001. The proceeds of
the 10 3/8% Seven Year Notes will be used primarily by our subsidiaries for the
construction and launch of additional satellites, strategic acquisitions and
other general working capital purposes.
The indenture related to the 10 3/8% Seven Year Notes (the "10 3/8%
Seven Year Notes Indenture") contains certain restrictive covenants that
generally do not impose material limitations on us. Subject to certain
limitations, the 10 3/8% Seven Year Notes Indenture permits EBC to incur
additional indebtedness, including secured and unsecured indebtedness that ranks
on parity with the 10 3/8% Seven Year Notes. Any secured indebtedness will, as
to the collateral securing such indebtedness, be effectively senior to the 10
3/8% Seven Year Notes to the extent of such collateral.
The 10 3/8% Seven Year Notes are:
o general unsecured obligations of EBC;
o ranked equally in right of payment with all of EBC's existing
and future senior debt;
o ranked senior in right of payment to all of EBC's other
existing and future subordinated debt; and
o ranked effectively junior to (i) all liabilities (including
trade payables) of EBC's subsidiaries and (ii) all of EBC's
secured obligations, to the extent of the collateral securing
such obligations, including any borrowings under any of EBC's
future secured credit facilities, if any.
Except under certain circumstances requiring prepayment premiums, and
in other limited circumstances, the 10 3/8% Seven Year Notes are not redeemable
at the Company's option prior to October 1, 2004. Thereafter, the 10 3/8% Seven
Year Notes will be subject to redemption, at EchoStar's option, in whole or in
part, at redemption prices decreasing from 105.188% during the year commencing
October 1, 2004 to 100% on or after October 1, 2006, together with accrued and
unpaid interest thereon to the redemption date.
F-17
40
ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED
In the event of a change of control, as defined in the 10 3/8% Seven
Year Notes Indenture, EBC will be required to make an offer to repurchase all or
any part of a holder's 10 3/8% Seven Year Notes at a purchase price equal to
101% of the aggregate principal amount thereof, together with accrued and unpaid
interest thereon, to the date of repurchase.
Under the terms of the 10 3/8% Seven Year Notes Indenture, EBC has
agreed to cause its subsidiary, EDBS to make an offer to exchange (the "EDBS
Exchange Offer") all of the outstanding 10 3/8% Seven Year Notes for a new class
of notes issued by EDBS as soon as practical following the first date (as
reflected in EDBS' most recent quarterly or annual financial statements) on
which EDBS is permitted to incur indebtedness in an amount equal to the
outstanding principal balance of the 10 3/8% Seven Year Notes under the
"Indebtedness to Cash Flow Ratio" test contained in the indentures (the "EDBS
Indentures") governing the EDBS 9 1/4% Seven Year Notes and 9 3/8% Ten Year
Notes, and such incurrence of indebtedness would not otherwise cause any breach
or violation of, or result in a default under, the terms of the EDBS Indentures.
On October 25, 2000, as contemplated by the terms of the EBC Indenture,
EDBS amended the terms of the EDBS Indentures to provide that the recording of
some or all of the indebtedness represented by the 10 3/8% Seven Year Notes on
the EDBS balance sheet as a result of the application of generally accepted
accounting principles and related rules prior to the completion of the EDBS
Exchange Offer would not be deemed to constitute an incurrence of indebtedness
for certain purposes under the EDBS Indentures. These amendments were approved
by more than a majority in principal amount of each issue of the 9 1/4% Seven
and 9 3/8% Ten Year Notes. The cost of obtaining these consents was immaterial
to EchoStar.
Mortgages and Other Notes Payable
Mortgages and other notes payable consists of the following (in
thousands):
DECEMBER 31,
----------------------
1999 2000
-------- --------
8.25% note payable for satellite vendor financing for EchoStar I due in equal monthly
installments of $722, including interest, through February 2001 ............................... $ 9,606 $ 2,137
8.25% note payable for satellite vendor financing for EchoStar II due in equal
monthly installments of $562, including interest, through November 2001 ..................... 11,909 5,930
8.25% note payable for satellite vendor financing for EchoStar III due in
equal monthly installments of $294, including interest, through October 2002 ................ 8,645 5,978
8.25% note payable for satellite vendor financing for EchoStar IV due upon
resolution of satellite insurance claim (Note 3) ............................................ 9,409 11,327
Mortgages and other unsecured notes payable due in installments through
November 2009 with interest rates ranging from 4% to 10% .................................... 9,508 5,914
-------- --------
Total ......................................................................................... 49,077 31,286
Less current portion .......................................................................... (21,017) (19,642)
-------- --------
Mortgages and other notes payable, net of current portion ..................................... $ 28,060 $ 11,644
======== ========
F-18
41
ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED
Future maturities of the Company's outstanding long-term debt are
summarized as follows (in thousands):
RESIDUAL
9 1/4% NOTES,
SEVEN 10 3/8% MORTGAGES
YEAR 9 3/8% TEN TEN YEAR AND OTHER
NOTES YEAR NOTES NOTES NOTES PAYABLE TOTAL
---------- ---------- ---------- ------------- ----------
YEAR ENDING
DECEMBER 31,
2001 ............ $ -- $ -- $ -- $ 19,642 $ 19,642
2002 ............ -- -- -- 6,067 6,067
2003 ............ -- -- -- 1,911 1,911
2004 ............ -- -- -- 655 655
2005 ............ -- -- -- 696 696
Thereafter ...... 375,000 1,625,000 1,000,000 2,315 3,002,315
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total .............. $ 375,000 $1,625,000 $1,000,000 $ 31,286 $3,031,286
========== ========== ========== ========== ==========
Satellite Vendor Financing
The purchase price for satellites is required to be paid in progress
payments, some of which are non-contingent payments that are deferred until
after the respective satellites are in orbit (satellite vendor financing). The
Company utilized $36 million, $28 million, $14 million and $13 million of
satellite vendor financing for EchoStar I, EchoStar II, EchoStar III and
EchoStar IV, respectively. The satellite vendor financing with respect to
EchoStar I and EchoStar II is secured by substantially all assets of EDBS and
its subsidiaries (subject to certain restrictions) and a corporate guarantee of
ECC. The satellite vendor financings for both EchoStar III and EchoStar IV are
secured by an ECC corporate guarantee.
5. INCOME TAXES
As of December 31, 2000, the Company had net operating loss
carryforwards ("NOLs") for Federal income tax purposes of approximately $2.115
billion. The NOLs expire beginning in the year 2012. The use of the NOLs is
subject to statutory and regulatory limitations regarding changes in ownership.
Financial Accounting Standard No. 109, "Accounting for Income Taxes," ("FAS No.
109") requires that the potential future tax benefit of NOLs be recorded as an
asset. FAS No. 109 also requires that deferred tax assets and liabilities be
recorded for the estimated future tax effects of temporary differences between
the tax basis and book value of assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets are
offset by a valuation allowance if deemed necessary.
In 2000, the Company increased its valuation allowance sufficient to
fully offset net deferred tax assets arising during the year. Realization of net
deferred tax assets is not assured and is principally dependent on generating
future taxable income prior to expiration of the NOLs. Management believes
existing net deferred tax assets in excess of the valuation allowance will, more
likely than not, be realized. The Company continuously reviews the adequacy of
its valuation allowance. Future decreases to the valuation allowance will be
made only as changed circumstances indicate that it is more likely that not the
additional benefits will be realized. Any future adjustments to the valuation
allowance will be recognized as a separate component of the Company's provision
for income taxes.
F-19
42
ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED
The temporary differences that give rise to deferred tax assets and
liabilities as of December 31, 1999 and 2000 are as follows (in thousands):
DECEMBER 31,
-------------------------
1999 2000
--------- ---------
Current deferred tax assets:
Accrued royalties .............................. $ 30,018 36,425
Inventory reserves and cost methods ............ 1,355 3,928
Accrued expenses ............................... 29,263 37,698
Allowance for doubtful accounts ................ 4,842 7,473
Reserve for warranty costs ..................... 78 79
--------- ---------
Total current deferred tax assets ................ 65,556 85,603
Current deferred tax liabilities:
Subscriber acquisition costs and other ......... (28) --
--------- ---------
Total current deferred tax liabilities ........... (28) --
--------- ---------
Gross current deferred tax assets ................ 65,528 85,603
Valuation allowance .............................. (54,242) (72,105)
--------- ---------
Net current deferred tax assets .................. 11,286 13,498
Noncurrent deferred tax assets:
General business and foreign tax credits ....... 2,504 2,504
Net operating loss carryforwards ............... 546,586 796,063
Incentive plan stock compensation .............. 22,273 38,509
Other .......................................... 9,551 23,935
--------- ---------
Total noncurrent deferred tax assets ............. 580,914 861,011
Noncurrent deferred tax liabilities:
Depreciation ................................... (43,949) (80,861)
Other .......................................... (245) (1,057)
--------- ---------
Total noncurrent deferred tax liabilities ........ (44,194) (81,918)
--------- ---------
Gross deferred tax assets ........................ 536,720 779,093
--------- ---------
Valuation allowance .............................. (480,659) (725,244)
--------- ---------
Net noncurrent deferred tax assets ............... 56,061 53,849
--------- ---------
Net deferred tax assets .......................... $ 67,347 $ 67,347
========= =========
The components of the benefit from (provision for) income taxes are as
follows (in thousands):
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
---------------------------------------
1998 1999 2000
--------- --------- ---------
Current benefit (provision):
Federal .............................. $ -- $ -- $ --
State ................................ 6 (46) (35)
Foreign .............................. (77) (85) (90)
--------- --------- ---------
(71) (131) (125)
Deferred benefit:
Federal .............................. 97,819 285,724 235,171
State ................................ 7,319 27,720 27,277
Increase in valuation allowance ...... (105,138) (313,444) (262,448)
--------- --------- ---------
-- -- --
--------- --------- ---------
Total benefit (provision) ......... $ (71) $ (131) $ (125)
========= ========= =========
F-20
43
ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED
The actual tax benefit (provision) for 1998, 1999 and 2000 are
reconciled to the amounts computed by applying the statutory Federal tax rate to
income before taxes as follows:
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
---------------------------
1998 1999 2000
----- ----- -----
Statutory rate ...................................... 35.0% 35.0% 35.0%
State income taxes, net of Federal benefit .......... 1.6 2.3 2.9
Employee stock option exercise and sale ............. -- -- 3.4
Research and development and foreign tax credits .... -- -- --
Non-deductible interest expense ..................... (1.3) (0.3) --
Other ............................................... 0.4 1.5 1.6
Increase in valuation allowance ..................... (35.7) (38.5) (42.9)
---- ---- ----
Total benefit from income taxes ..................... --% --% --%
==== ==== ====
6. STOCK COMPENSATION PLANS
Stock Incentive Plan
In April 1994, EchoStar adopted a stock incentive plan to provide
incentive to attract and retain officers, directors and key employees. EchoStar
currently has reserved up to 80 million shares of its Class A common stock for
granting awards under its 1995 Stock Incentive Plan and an additional 80 million
shares of its Class A common stock for granting awards under its 1999 Stock
Incentive Plan. In general, stock options granted through December 31, 2000 have
included exercise prices not less than the fair market value of EchoStar's Class
A common stock at the date of grant, and vest, as determined by EchoStar's Board
of Directors, generally at the rate of 20% per year.
During 1999, EchoStar adopted the 1999 Incentive Plan which provided
certain key employees a contingent incentive including stock options and cash.
The payment of these incentives was contingent upon the achievement of certain
financial and other goals of EchoStar. EchoStar met certain of these goals
during 1999. Accordingly, in 1999, EchoStar recorded approximately $179 million
of deferred compensation related to post-grant appreciation of options to
purchase approximately 4.2 million shares, granted pursuant to the 1999
Incentive Plan. The related deferred compensation will be recognized over the
five-year vesting period. During the year ended December 31, 1999 and 2000, the
Company recognized $61 million and $51 million, respectively, under the 1999
Incentive Plan. The remainder will be recognized over the remaining vesting
period.
Options to purchase an additional 11.2 million shares were granted at
fair market value during 1999 pursuant to the Long Term Incentive Plan. Vesting
of these options is contingent on meeting certain longer-term goals, the
achievement of which can not be reasonably predicted as of December 31, 2000.
Accordingly, no compensation was recorded during 1999 and 2000 related to these
long-term options. EchoStar will continue to evaluate the likelihood of
achieving these long-term goals and will record the related compensation at the
time achievement of these goals becomes probable. During 2000, the Board of
Directors approved a 2000 Incentive Plan. The payment of these incentives was
contingent upon the achievement of certain financial and other goals of
EchoStar. EchoStar did not meet any of these goals in 2000. Accordingly, no cash
incentives were paid and all stock options granted pursuant to the 2000
Incentive Plan were cancelled.
F-21
44
ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED
A summary of EchoStar's incentive stock option activity for the years
ended December 31, 1998, 1999 and 2000 is as follows:
1998 1999 2000
------------------------- ----------------------- ------------------------
WEIGHTED- WEIGHTED- WEIGHTED-
AVERAGE AVERAGE AVERAGE
EXERCISE EXERCISE EXERCISE
OPTIONS PRICE OPTIONS PRICE OPTIONS PRICE
----------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------- ---------
Options outstanding, beginning of year.. 12,196,536 $ 1.88 11,576,120 $ 2.04 27,843,640 $ 6.26
Granted ................................ 5,585,080 2.35 20,847,712 7.71 2,942,000 51.56
Exercised .............................. (1,505,456) 1.57 (3,808,114) 1.84 (3,591,209) 3.05
Forfeited .............................. (4,700,040) 2.14 (772,078) 4.92 (2,076,538) 20.78
----------- ------ ----------- ------ ----------- ------
Options outstanding, end of year ....... 11,576,120 $ 2.04 27,843,640 $ 6.26 25,117,893 $10.81
=========== ====== =========== ====== =========== ======
Exercisable at end of year ............. 3,858,424 $ 1.73 2,755,432 $ 1.86 2,911,256 $ 5.49
=========== ====== =========== ====== =========== ======
Exercise prices for options outstanding as of December 31, 2000 are as
follows:
OPTIONS OUTSTANDING OPTIONS EXERCISABLE
---------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------
NUMBER WEIGHTED- NUMBER
OUTSTANDING AVERAGE EXERCISABLE
AS OF REMAINING WEIGHTED- AS OF WEIGHTED-
RANGE OF DECEMBER 31, CONTRACTUAL AVERAGE DECEMBER 31, AVERAGE
EXERCISE PRICES 2000 LIFE EXERCISE PRICE 2000 EXERCISE PRICE
- --------------------- ------------ ----------- -------------- ------------ --------------
$ 1.167 - $ 2.750 4,047,528 5.28 $ 2.20 1,745,520 $ 2.08
3.000 - 3.434 328,788 6.17 3.01 69,228 3.05
5.486 - 6.600 15,350,932* 8.09 6.00 685,908 6.02
10.203 - 19.180 2,331,645 7.61 12.37 312,200 13.16
22.703 - 22.750 293,000 9.20 22.72 34,400 22.70
33.109 - 36.420 1,320,000 7.61 34.36 -- --
48.750 - 52.750 350,000 9.06 49.09 64,000 48.75
60.125 - 79.000 1,096,000 9.43 65.22 -- --
- --------------------- ---------- ---- -------- --------- -------
$ 1.1667 - $79.000 25,117,893 7.63 $ 10.81 2,911,256 $ 5.49
===================== ========== ==== ======== ========= =======
* This amount includes 10.4 million shares outstanding pursuant to the
Long Term Incentive Plan.
Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation
EchoStar has elected to follow Accounting Principles Board Opinion No.
25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees," ("APB 25") and related
interpretations in accounting for its stock-based compensation plans. Under APB
25, EchoStar generally does not recognize compensation expense on the issuance
of stock under its Stock Incentive Plan because the option terms are typically
fixed and typically the exercise price equals the market price of the underlying
stock on the date of grant. Certain non-cash stock-based compensation amounts
are pushed-down from ECC to the Company and recorded as a deemed capital
contribution, with and offsetting entry to deferred compensation. Deferred
compensation is recognized over the vesting period of the related stock options.
In October 1995, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued
Financial Accounting Standard No. 123, "Accounting and Disclosure of Stock-Based
Compensation," ("FAS No. 123") which established an alternative method of
expense recognition for stock-based compensation awards to employees based on
fair values. EchoStar elected to not adopt FAS No. 123 for expense recognition
purposes.
Pro forma information regarding net income and earnings per share is
required by FAS No. 123 and has been determined as if EchoStar had accounted for
its stock-based compensation plans using the fair value method
F-22
45
ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED
prescribed by that statement. For purposes of pro forma disclosures, the
estimated fair value of the options is amortized to expense over the options'
vesting period. All options are initially assumed to vest. Compensation
previously recognized is reversed to the extent applicable to forfeitures of
unvested options. The fair value of each option grant was estimated at the date
of the grant using a Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following
weighted-average assumptions:
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
-------------------------------
1998 1999 2000
------- ------- -------
Risk-free interest rate .......................... 5.64% 5.38% 6.19%
Volatility factor ................................ 67% 76% 98%
Dividend yield ................................... 0.00% 0.00% 0.00%
Expected term of options ......................... 6 years 6 years 6 years
Weighted-average fair value of options granted ... $ 1.51 $ 7.14 $30.41
The Company's pro forma net loss was $297 million, $741 million and
$584 million for the years ended December 31, 1998, 1999 and 2000, respectively.
The pro forma net loss for 1999 and 2000 is less than the loss reported in the
statement of operations because of the $61 million and $51 million charge,
respectively, for the post-grant appreciation of stock-based compensation,
determined under APB 25 and reported by EchoStar, is greater than the amount of
stock-based compensation that would have been reported by EchoStar under the
provisions of FAS No. 123.
The Black-Scholes option valuation model was developed for use in
estimating the fair value of traded options which have no vesting restrictions
and are fully transferable. In addition, option valuation models require the
input of highly subjective assumptions including the expected stock price
characteristics significantly different from those of traded options, and
because changes in the subjective input assumptions can materially affect the
fair value estimate, in management's opinion, the existing models do not
necessarily provide a reliable single measure of the fair value of its
stock-based compensation awards.
7. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
During 1997, EchoStar's Board of Directors and shareholders approved an
employee stock purchase plan (the "ESPP"), effective beginning October 1, 1997.
Under the ESPP, EchoStar is authorized to issue a total of 800,000 shares of
Class A common stock. Substantially all full-time employees who have been
employed by EchoStar for at least one calendar quarter are eligible to
participate in the ESPP. Employee stock purchases are made through payroll
deductions. Under the terms of the ESPP, employees may not deduct an amount
which would permit such employee to purchase capital stock of EchoStar under all
stock purchase plans of EchoStar at a rate which would exceed $25,000 in fair
market value of capital stock in any one year. The purchase price of the stock
is 85% of the closing price of the Class A common stock on the last business day
of each calendar quarter in which such shares of Class A common stock are deemed
sold to an employee under the ESPP. The ESPP shall terminate upon the first to
occur of (i) October 1, 2007 or (ii) the date on which the ESPP is terminated by
the Board of Directors. During 1998, 1999 and 2000, employees purchased
approximately 128,000, 44,000 and 58,000 shares of Class A common stock through
the ESPP, respectively.
F-23
46
ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED
401(k) Employee Savings Plan
EchoStar sponsors a 401(k) Employee Savings Plan (the "401(k) Plan")
for eligible employees. Voluntary employee contributions to the 401(k) Plan may
be matched 50% by EchoStar, subject to a maximum annual contribution by EchoStar
of $1,000 per employee. EchoStar also may make an annual discretionary
contribution to the plan with approval by EchoStar's Board of Directors, subject
to the maximum deductible limit provided by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986,
as amended. EchoStar's cash contributions to the 401(k) Plan totaled $314,000 in
1998 and 1999, and $1.6 million in 2000. Additionally, during 1998, EchoStar
contributed 640,000 shares of its Class A common stock (fair value of
approximately $2 million) to the 401(k) Plan related to its 1997 discretionary
contribution. During 1999, EchoStar contributed 520,000 shares of its Class A
common stock (fair value of approximately $3 million) to the 401(k) Plan related
to its 1998 discretionary contribution. During 2000, EchoStar contributed
120,000 shares of its Class A common stock (fair value of approximately $6
million) to the 401(k) Plan related to its 1999 discretionary contribution.
EchoStar has not yet determined the amount to be contributed during 2001
relating to its 2000 discretionary contribution.
8. OTHER COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Leases
Future minimum lease payments under noncancelable operating leases as
of December 31, 2000, are as follows (in thousands):
YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 31,
2001..................................................... $ 10,627
2002..................................................... 10,407
2003..................................................... 9,369
2004..................................................... 4,032
2005..................................................... 2,245
Thereafter............................................... 4,505
---------
Total minimum lease payments.......................... $ 41,185
=========
Total rental expense for operating leases approximated $1 million in
1998, $3 million in 1999 and $5 million in 2000.
Purchase Commitments
As of December 31, 2000, the Company's purchase commitments totaled
approximately $204 million. The majority of these commitments relate to EchoStar
receiver systems and related components. All of the purchases related to these
commitments are expected to be made during 2001. The Company expects to finance
these purchases from existing unrestricted cash balances and future cash flows
generated from operations, if any.
VisionStar
During November 2000, one of EchoStar's wholly owned subsidiaries
purchased a 49.9% interest in VisionStar, Inc. VisionStar holds an FCC license,
and is constructing a Ka-band satellite, to launch into the 113 W.L. orbital
slot. Together with VisionStar EchoStar has requested FCC approval to acquire
control over VisionStar by increasing its ownership of VisionStar to 90%, for a
total purchase price of approximately $2.8 million. EchoStar has also provided
loans to VisionStar totaling less than $10 million to date for the construction
of their satellite and expect to provide additional funding to VisionStar in the
future. EchoStar is not obligated to finance the full remaining cost to
construct and launch the VisionStar satellite, but VisionStar's FCC license
currently requires construction of the satellite to be completed by April 30,
2002 or the license could be revoked. EchoStar currently expects to continue to
fund loans and equity contributions for construction of the satellite in the
near term from cash
F-24
47
ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED
on hand, and expect that it may spend approximately $79.5 million during 2001
for that purpose subject to, among other things, FCC action.
Patents and Intellectual Property
Many entities, including some of EchoStar's competitors, now have and
may in the future obtain patents and other intellectual property rights that
cover or affect products or services directly or indirectly related to those
that EchoStar offers. EchoStar may not be aware of all patents and other
intellectual property rights that its products may potentially infringe. Damages
in patent infringement cases can include a tripling of actual damages in certain
cases. Further, EchoStar cannot estimate the extent to which it may be required
in the future to obtain licenses with respect to patents held by others and the
availability and cost of any such licenses. Various parties have asserted patent
and other intellectual property rights with respect to components within
EchoStar's direct broadcast satellite system. EchoStar cannot be certain that
these persons do not own the rights they claim, that its products do not
infringe on these rights, that it would be able to obtain licenses from these
persons on commercially reasonable terms or, if it was unable to obtain such
licenses, that it would be able to redesign its products to avoid infringement.
DirecTV
During February 2000 EchoStar filed suit against DirecTV and Thomson
Consumer Electronics/RCA in the Federal District Court of Colorado. The suit
alleges that DirecTV has utilized improper conduct in order to fend off
competition from the DISH Network. According to the complaint, DirecTV has
demanded that certain retailers stop displaying EchoStar's merchandise and has
threatened to cause economic damage to retailers if they continue to offer both
product lines in head-to-head competition. The suit alleges, among other things,
that DirecTV has acted in violation of federal and state anti-trust laws in
order to protect DirecTV's market share. EchoStar is seeking injunctive relief
and monetary damages. On December 8, 2000, EchoStar submitted an Amended
Complaint adding claims against Circuit City, Radio Shack and Best Buy, alleging
that these retailers are engaging in improper conduct that has had an
anti-competitive impact on EchoStar. It is too early in the litigation to make
an assessment of the probable outcome. During October 2000, DirecTV filed a
motion for summary judgment asking that the Court enter judgment in DirecTV's
favor on certain of EchoStar's claims. EchoStar has filed a motion asking the
Court to allow it an opportunity to conduct discovery prior to having to
substantively respond to DirecTV's motion. DirecTV's motion for summary judgment
and EchoStar's motion remain pending.
The DirecTV defendants filed a counterclaim against EchoStar. DirecTV
alleges that EchoStar tortuously interfered with a contract that DirecTV
allegedly had with Kelly Broadcasting Systems, Inc. ("KBS"). DirecTV alleges
that EchoStar "merged" with KBS, in contravention of DirecTV's contract with
KBS. DirecTV also alleges that EchoStar has falsely advertised to consumers
about its right to offer network programming. DirecTV further alleges that
EchoStar improperly used certain marks owned by PrimeStar, now owned by DirecTV.
Finally, DirecTV alleges that EchoStar has been marketing National Football
League games in a misleading manner. The amount of damages DirecTV is seeking is
as yet unquantified. EchoStar intends to vigorously defend against these claims.
The case is currently in discovery. It is too early in the litigation to make an
assessment of the probable outcome.
Fee Dispute
EchoStar had a contingent fee arrangement with the attorneys who
represented EchoStar in the litigation with News Corporation. The contingent fee
arrangement provides for the attorneys to be paid a percentage of any net
recovery obtained by EchoStar in the News Corporation litigation. The attorneys
have asserted that they may be entitled to receive payments totaling hundreds of
millions of dollars under this fee arrangement.
F-25
48
ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED
During mid-1999, EchoStar initiated litigation against the attorneys in
the Arapahoe County, Colorado, District Court arguing that the fee arrangement
is void and unenforceable. In December 1999, the attorneys initiated an
arbitration proceeding before the American Arbitration Association. The
litigation has been stayed while the arbitration is ongoing. A two week
arbitration hearing has been set to begin on April 2, 2001. It is not possible
to determine the outcome of arbitration or litigation regarding this fee
dispute. EchoStar is vigorously contesting the attorneys' interpretation of the
fee arrangement, which EchoStar believes significantly overstates the magnitude
of its liability.
WIC Premium Television Ltd.
During July 1998, a lawsuit was filed by WIC Premium Television Ltd.,
an Alberta corporation, in the Federal Court of Canada Trial Division, against
General Instrument Corporation, HBO, Warner Communications, Inc., John Doe,
Showtime, United States Satellite Broadcasting Company, Inc., EchoStar
Communications Corporation, and two of EchoStar's wholly-owned subsidiaries,
EchoSphere Corporation and Dish, Ltd. The lawsuit seeks, among other things, an
interim and permanent injunction prohibiting the defendants from activating
receivers in Canada and from infringing any copyrights held by WIC. It is too
early to determine whether or when any other lawsuits or claims will be filed.
During September 1998, WIC filed another lawsuit in the Court of
Queen's Bench of Alberta Judicial District of Edmonton against certain
defendants, including EchoStar. WIC is a company authorized to broadcast certain
copyrighted work, such as movies and concerts, to residents of Canada. WIC
alleges that the defendants engaged in, promoted, and/or allowed satellite dish
equipment from the United States to be sold in Canada and to Canadian residents
and that some of the defendants allowed and profited from Canadian residents
purchasing and viewing subscription television programming that is only
authorized for viewing in the United States. The lawsuit seeks, among other
things, an interim and permanent injunction prohibiting the defendants from
importing hardware into Canada and from activating receivers in Canada, together
with damages in excess of $175 million.
EchoStar filed motions to dismiss each of the actions for lack of
personal jurisdiction. The Court in the Alberta action recently denied
EchoStar's Motion to Dismiss, which EchoStar appealed. The Alberta Court also
granted a motion to add more EchoStar parties to the lawsuit. EchoStar Satellite
Corporation, EDBS, EchoStar Technologies Corporation, and EchoStar Satellite
Broadcast Corporation have been added as defendants in the litigation. The newly
added defendants have also challenged jurisdiction. The Court of Appeals denied
EchoStar's appeal and the Alberta Court has asserted jurisdiction over all of
the EchoStar defendants. The Court in the Federal action has stayed that case
pending the outcome of the Alberta action. The case is now currently in
discovery. EchoStar intends to vigorously defend the suit. It is too early to
make an assessment of the probable outcome of the litigation or to determine the
extent of any potential liability or damages.
Broadcast network programming
Until July 1998, EchoStar obtained distant broadcast network channels
(ABC, NBC, CBS and FOX) for distribution to its customers through PrimeTime 24.
In December 1998, the United States District Court for the Southern District of
Florida entered a nationwide permanent injunction requiring PrimeTime 24 to shut
off distant network channels to many of its customers, and henceforth to sell
those channels to consumers in accordance with certain stipulations in the
injunction.
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ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED
In October 1998, EchoStar filed a declaratory judgment action against
ABC, NBC, CBS and FOX in Denver Federal Court. EchoStar asked the court to enter
a judgment declaring that its method of providing distant network programming
did not violate the Satellite Home Viewer Act and hence did not infringe the
networks' copyrights. In November 1998, the networks and their affiliate groups
filed a complaint against EchoStar in Miami Federal Court alleging, among other
things, copyright infringement. The court combined the case that EchoStar filed
in Colorado with the case in Miami and transferred it to the Miami court. The
case remains pending in Miami. While the networks have not sought monetary
damages, they have sought to recover attorney fees if they prevail.
In February 1999, the networks filed a "Motion for Temporary
Restraining Order, Preliminary Injunction and Contempt Finding" against DirecTV,
Inc. in Miami related to the delivery of distant network channels to DirecTV
customers by satellite. DirecTV settled this lawsuit with the networks. Under
the terms of the settlement between DirecTV and the networks, some DirecTV
customers were scheduled to lose access to their satellite-provided distant
network channels by July 31, 1999, while other DirecTV customers were to be
disconnected by December 31, 1999. Subsequently, PrimeTime 24 and substantially
all providers of satellite-delivered network programming other than EchoStar
agreed to this cut-off schedule, although EchoStar does not know if they adhered
to this schedule.
In December 1998, the networks filed a Motion for Preliminary
Injunction against EchoStar in the Miami court, and asked the court to enjoin
EchoStar from providing network programming except under limited circumstances.
A preliminary injunction hearing was held on September 21, 1999. The court took
the issues under advisement to consider the networks' request for an injunction,
whether to hear live testimony before ruling upon the request, and whether to
hear argument on why the Satellite Home Viewer Act may be unconstitutional,
among other things.
In March 2000, the networks filed an emergency motion again asking the
court to issue an injunction requiring EchoStar to turn off network programming
to certain of its customers. At that time, the networks also argued that
EchoStar's compliance procedures violate the Satellite Home Viewer Improvement
Act. EchoStar opposed the networks' motion and again asked the court to hear
live testimony before ruling upon the networks' injunction request.
During September 2000, the Court granted the Networks' motion for
preliminary injunction, denied the Network's emergency motion and denied
EchoStar's request to present live testimony and evidence. The Court's original
order required EchoStar to terminate network programming to certain subscribers
"no later than February 15, 1999," and contained other dates which would be
physically impossible to comply with. The order imposes restrictions on
EchoStar's past and future sale of distant ABC, NBC, CBS and Fox channels
similar to those imposed on PrimeTime 24 (and, EchoStar believes, on DirecTV and
others). Some of those restrictions go beyond the statutory requirements imposed
by the Satellite Home Viewer Act and the Satellite Home Viewer Improvement Act.
For these and other reasons EchoStar believes the Court's order is, among other
things, fundamentally flawed, unconstitutional and should be overturned.
However, it is very unusual for a Court of Appeals to overturn a lower court's
order and there can be no assurance whatsoever that it will be overturned.
On October 3, 2000, and again on October 25, 2000, the Court amended
its original preliminary injunction order in an effort to fix some of the errors
in the original order. The twice amended preliminary injunction order required
EchoStar to shut off, by February 15, 2001, all subscribers who are ineligible
to receive distant network programming under the court's order. EchoStar has
appealed the September 2000 preliminary injunction order and the October 3, 2000
amended preliminary injunction order. On November 22, 2000, the United States
Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit stayed the Florida Court's preliminary
injunction order pending EchoStar's appeal. At that time, the Eleventh Circuit
also expedited its consideration of EchoStar's appeal.
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ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED
During November 2000, EchoStar filed its appeal brief with the Eleventh
Circuit. During December 2000, the Satellite Broadcasting and Communications
Association submitted an amicus brief in support of EchoStar's appeal. The
Consumer Federation of America and the Media Access Project have also submitted
an amicus brief in support of EchoStar's appeal. The Networks have responded to
EchoStar's appeal brief and the amicus briefs filed by the Consumer Federation
of America and the Media Access Project and the Satellite Broadcasting and
Communications Association. In December 2000, the Department of Justice filed a
motion to intervene with respect to EchoStar's constitutional challenge of the
Satellite Home Viewers Act, and the National Association of Broadcasters filed
an amicus brief in support of the Networks' position in the appeal. During
January 2001, EchoStar filed its reply appeal brief and asked the Eleventh
Circuit for an opportunity to respond to the amicus brief filed by the National
Association of Broadcasters and the brief filed by the Department of Justice. On
January 11, 2001, the Networks advised the Eleventh Circuit that they did not
object to EchoStar's filing a response to the National Association of
Broadcasters' amicus brief or the Department of Justice's brief. On January 19,
2001, EchoStar filed its supplemental brief responding to the Department of
Justice's brief. On January 23, 2001, the Department of Justice filed a motion
to strike EchoStar's supplemental brief or for an opportunity to reply to
EchoStar's supplemental brief. On February 2, 2001, without explanation, the
Eleventh Circuit issued an order striking EchoStar's supplemental reply and
denying EchoStar an opportunity to file a response to the Department of
Justice's motion to intervene. The Eleventh Circuit has currently set oral
argument for May 24, 2001 in Atlanta. EchoStar cannot predict when the Eleventh
Circuit will rule on its appeal, but it could be as early as April 2001.
EchoStar's appeal effort may not be successful and EchoStar may be required to
comply with the Court's preliminary injunction order on short notice. The
preliminary injunction could force EchoStar to terminate delivery of distant
network channels to a substantial portion of its distant network subscriber
base, which could also cause many of these subscribers to cancel their
subscription to EchoStar's other services. Such terminations would result in a
small reduction in EchoStar's reported average monthly revenue per subscriber
and could result in a temporary increase in churn.
Starsight
During October 2000, Starsight Telecast, Inc., a subsidiary of
Gemstar-TV Guide, filed a suit for patent infringement against EchoStar and
certain of its subsidiaries in the United States District Court for the Western
District of North Carolina, Asheville Division. The suit alleges infringement of
United States Patent No. 4,706,121 ("the `121 patent") which relates to certain
electronic program guide functions. EchoStar has examined this patent and
believes that it is not infringed by any of EchoStar's products or services.
EchoStar is vigorously contesting the suit and has filed counterclaims
challenging both the validity and enforceability of this patent.
In December 2000 EchoStar filed suit against Gemstar - TV Guide
International, Inc. (and certain of its subsidiaries) in the United States
District Court for the District of Colorado alleging violations by Gemstar of
various federal and state anti-trust laws and laws governing unfair competition.
The lawsuit seeks an injunction and monetary damages.
In February 2001, Gemstar filed patent infringement actions against
EchoStar in District Court in Atlanta, Georgia and in the International Trade
commission (ITC). These suits allege infringement of US Patent Nos. 5,252,066,
5,479,268 and 5,809,204 which all relate to certain electronic program guide
functions. In addition, the ITC action alleges infringement of the `121 patent
which is asserted in the North Carolina case. In the Atlanta District Court
case, Gemstar seeks damages and an injunction. Pursuant to Federal law, the
Atlanta case can be stayed pending the resolution of the ITC action. It is also
possible the North Carolina action will be stayed while the ITC case proceeds.
ITC actions typically proceed according to an expedited schedule. EchoStar
expects the ITC action to go to trial by the end of 2001 or early in 2002. A
final decision should be issued by the ITC by mid-2002. While the ITC cannot
award damages, it can issue exclusion orders that would prevent the importation
of articles that are found to infringe the asserted patents. In addition, it can
issue cease and desist orders that would prohibit the sale of infringing
products that had been previously imported. EchoStar has examined these patents
and believe they are not infringed by any of our products or services. EchoStar
will vigorously contest the ITC and Atlanta
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ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED
allegations of infringement and will, among other things, challenge both the
validity and enforceability of the asserted patents.
During 2000, Superguide Corp. also filed suit against EchoStar, DirecTV
and others in the North Carolina Court, alleging infringement of United States
Patent Nos. 5,038,211, 5,293,357 and 4,751,578 which relate to certain
electronic program guide functions, including the use of electronic program
guides to control VCRs. It is EchoStar's understanding that these patents may be
licensed by Superguide to Gemstar, although Gemstar has not asserted the patents
against EchoStar. EchoStar has examined these patents and believes that they are
not infringed by any of EchoStar's products or services. EchoStar intends to
vigorously defend against this action and assert a variety of counterclaims.
In the event it is ultimately determined that EchoStar infringes on any
of aforementioned patents EchoStar may be subject to substantial damages, and/or
an injunction that could require EchoStar to materially modify certain user
friendly electronic programming guide and related features it currently offers
to consumers. It is too early to make an assessment of the probable outcome of
either suit.
IPPV Enterprises
IPPV Enterprises, LLC and MAAST, Inc. filed a patent infringement suit
against EchoStar in the United States District Court for the District of
Delaware. The suit alleges infringement of 5 patents. The patents disclose
various systems for the implementation of features such as impulse-pay-per view,
parental control and category lock-out. One patent relates to an encryption
technique. Three of the patents have expired. EchoStar is vigorously defending
against the suit based, among other things, on non-infringement, invalidity and
failure to provide notice of alleged infringement.
In the event it is ultimately determined that EchoStar infringes on any
of these patents we may be subject to substantial damages, and/or an injunction
with respect to the two unexpired patents, that could require EchoStar to
materially modify certain user friendly features it currently offer to
consumers. It is too early to make an assessment of the probable outcome of
either suit.
Retailer Class Actions
EchoStar has been sued by retailers in three separate class actions. In
two separate lawsuits, Air Communication & Satellite, Inc. and John DeJong, et.
al. filed lawsuits on October 6, 2000 on behalf of themselves and a class of
persons similarly situated. The plaintiffs are attempting to certify nationwide
classes allegedly brought on behalf of persons, primarily retail dealers, who
were alleged signatories to certain retailer agreements with EchoStar Satellite
Corporation. The plaintiffs are requesting the Court to declare certain
provisions of the alleged agreements invalid and unenforceable, to declare that
certain unilateral changes to the agreements are invalid and unenforceable, and
to award damages for lost commissions and payments, charge backs, and other
compensation. The plaintiffs are alleging breach of contract and breach of the
covenant of good faith and fair dealing and are seeking declaratory relief,
compensatory damages, injunctive relief, and pre-judgment and post-judgment
interest. EchoStar intends to vigorously defend the lawsuit and to assert a
variety of counterclaims. It is too early to make an assessment of the probable
outcome of the litigation or to determine the extent of any potential liability
or damages.
Satellite Dealers Supply, Inc. filed a lawsuit on September 25, 2000,
on behalf of itself and a class of persons similarly situated. The plaintiff is
attempting to certify a nationwide class allegedly brought on behalf of sellers,
installers, and servicers of equipment used to provide satellite who contract
with EchoStar and claims the alleged class has been "subject to improper
chargebacks." The plaintiff alleges that (1) EchoStar charged back certain fees
paid by members of the class to professional installers in violation of
contractual terms; (2) EchoStar manipulated the accounts of subscribers to deny
payments to class members; and (3) EchoStar misrepresented to class members who
owns certain equipment related to provision of satellite television service. The
plaintiff is requesting a permanent injunction and monetary damages. EchoStar
intends to vigorously defend the lawsuit and to
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ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED
assert a variety of counterclaims. It is too early to make an assessment of the
probable outcome of the litigation or to determine the extent of any potential
liability or damages.
EchoStar is subject to various other legal proceedings and claims which
arise in the ordinary course of business. In the opinion of management, the
amount of ultimate liability with respect to those actions will not materially
affect EchoStar's financial position or results of operations.
Meteoroid Events
Meteoroid events pose a potential threat to all in orbit geosynchronous
satellites including EchoStar's DBS satellites. While the probability that
EchoStar's satellites will be damaged by meteoroids is very small, that
probability increases significantly when the Earth passes through the
particulate stream left behind by various comets.
Due to the current peak in the 11-year solar cycle, increased solar
activity is likely for the next year. Some of these solar storms pose a
potential threat to all in-orbit geosynchronous satellites including EchoStar's
DBS satellites. The probability that the effects from the storms will damage our
satellites or cause service interruptions is generally very small.
Some decommissioned spacecraft are in uncontrolled orbits which pass
through the geostationary belt at various points, and present hazards to
operational spacecraft including EchoStar's DBS satellites. The locations of
these hazards are generally well known and may require EchoStar to perform
maneuvers to avoid collisions.
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ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED
9. SEGMENT REPORTING
Financial Data by Business Unit (in thousands)
Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 131, "Disclosures About
Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information" ("FAS No. 131") establishes
standards for reporting information about operating segments in annual financial
statements of public business enterprises and requires that those enterprises
report selected information about operating segments in interim financial
reports issued to shareholders. Operating segments are components of an
enterprise about which separate financial information is available and regularly
evaluated by the chief operating decision maker(s) of an enterprise. Under this
definition, we are currently operating as three separate business units.
ECHOSTAR OTHER EBC
DISH SATELLITE ELIMINATIONS CONSOLIDATED ECHOSTAR AND
NETWORK ETC SERVICES AND OTHER TOTAL ACTIVITY SUBSIDIARIES
----------- ----------- ----------- ------------ ----------- ----------- ------------
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998
Revenue ...................... $ 733,382 $ 251,958 $ 23,442 $ (26,116) $ 982,666 $ 3,243 $ 985,909
Depreciation and
amortization ............... 85,107 2,097 26 15,406 102,636 (479) 102,157
Total expenses ............... 871,269 193,852 3,495 36,941 1,105,557 11,207 1,116,764
EBITDA ....................... (52,781) 60,202 19,973 (47,649) (20,255) (8,443) (28,698)
Interest income .............. 9,280 -- 2 21,004 30,286 (20,175) 10,111
Interest expense, net of
amounts capitalized ........ 49,042 282 -- 118,205 167,529 5,413 172,942
Income tax provision, net .... 17 (11) -- (50) (44) (27) (71)
Net income (loss) ............ (199,356) 30,333 18,409 (110,268) (260,882) (33,493) (294,375)
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1999
Revenue .................... $ 1,373,789 $ 160,276 $ 47,312 $ 21,464 $ 1,602,841 $ 3,450 $ 1,606,291
Depreciation and
amortization.............. 97,899 4,434 193 10,702 113,228 (3,197) 110,031
Total expenses ............. 1,622,928 165,238 15,956 145,810 1,949,932 9,928 1,959,860
EBITDA ..................... (151,241) (528) 31,549 (52,733) (172,953) (9,525) (182,478)
Interest income ............ 26,205 1 375 (402) 26,179 (13,613) 12,566
Interest expense, net
of amounts capitalized ... (201,356) (253) -- (4) (201,613) 5,223 (196,390)
Income tax benefit
(provision), net ......... -- (46) -- (108) (154) 23 (131)
Net loss ................... (1,949,914) (31,884) 27,273 1,161,678 (792,847) 1,698 (791,149)
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2000
Revenue .................... $ 2,407,554 $ 207,945 $ 55,028 $ 44,693 $ 2,715,220 (6,306) $ 2,708,914
Depreciation and
amortization.............. 160,910 5,338 121 18,987 185,356 (10,749) 174,607
Total expenses ............. 2,746,000 197,073 (1,695) 197,908 3,139,286 (5,606) 3,133,680
EBITDA ..................... (177,535) 16,210 56,844 (82,764) (187,245) (11,449) (198,694)
Interest income ............ 79,724 -- 220 (211) 79,733 (48,450) 31,283
Interest expense, net
of amounts capitalized ... (267,650) (233) -- (107) (267,990) 51,613 (216,377)
Income tax benefit
(provision), net ......... (48) (32) -- (475) (555) 430 (125)
Net income (loss) .......... (775,581) (155) 52,964 101,561 (621,211) 8,987 (612,224)
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ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED
Geographic Information (in thousands)
UNITED STATES EUROPE TOTAL
------------- -------- ------------
1998
Total revenue*..................... $ 967,746 $ 18,163 $ 985,909
Long-lived assets.................. 955,586 1,498 957,084
1999
Total revenue*..................... $ 1,583,442 $ 22,849 $ 1,606,291
Long-lived assets.................. 2,033,142 3,099 2,036,241
2000
Total revenue*..................... $ 2,660,827 $ 48,087 $ 2,708,914
Long-lived assets.................. 2,180,536 3,546 2,184,082
* Revenues are attributed to geographic regions based upon the location from
which the sale originated.
Transactions with Major Customers
During the years ended December 31, 1998, 1999 and 2000, export sales
to two customers together totaled $210 million, $126 million and $187 million,
respectively. These export sales accounted for approximately 21%, 8% and 7% of
the Company's total revenue during each of the three years ended December 31,
1998, 1999 and 2000, respectively. Revenues from these customers are included
within the EchoStar Technologies Corporation business unit.
10. VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
The Company's valuation and qualifying accounts as of December 31,
1998, 1999 and 2000 are as follows (in thousands):
BALANCE AT CHARGED TO
BEGINNING OF COSTS AND BALANCE AT
YEAR EXPENSES DEDUCTIONS END OF YEAR
------------ ---------- ---------- -----------
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998:
Assets:
Allowance for doubtful accounts ...... $ 1,347 $ 10,692 $ (9,043) $ 2,996
Loan loss reserve .................... 61 31 (92) --
Reserve for inventory ................ 3,840 1,744 (403) 5,181
Liabilities:
Reserve for warranty costs and other . 710 -- (435) 275
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1999:
Assets:
Allowance for doubtful accounts ...... $ 2,996 $ 23,481 $(13,368) $ 13,109
Reserve for inventory ................ 5,181 1,718 (3,019) 3,880
Liabilities:
Reserve for warranty costs and other . 275 -- (65) 210
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2000:
Assets:
Allowance for doubtful accounts ...... $ 13,109 $ 45,091 $(38,266) $ 19,934
Reserve for inventory ................ 3,880 6,357 (395) 9,842
Liabilities:
Reserve for warranty costs and other . 210 -- -- 210
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ECHOSTAR BROADBAND CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED
11. QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)
EchoStar's quarterly unaudited results of operations are summarized as
follows (in thousands, except per share amounts):
THREE MONTHS ENDED
-----------------------------------------------------
MARCH 31 JUNE 30 SEPTEMBER 30 DECEMBER 31
---------- ---------- ------------ -----------
(Unaudited)
Year Ended December 31, 1999:
Total revenue .......................... $ 310,335 $ 350,445 $ 431,259 $ 514,252
Operating loss ......................... (57,437) (53,285) (79,623) (163,224)
Net loss ............................... (333,317) (105,936) (126,532) (225,364)
Year Ended December 31, 2000:
Total revenue .......................... $ 568,058 $ 642,199 $ 694,227 $ 804,430
Operating loss ......................... (145,456) (90,115) (82,731) (106,464)
Net loss ............................... (191,183) (137,931) (128,952) (154,158)
12. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
During February 2001, EchoStar announced an agreement with Lockheed
Martin's International Launch Services to provide launch services for the
EchoStar VII and EchoStar VIII satellites, which also includes options for
launch services for additional satellites. EchoStar VII is expected to launch in
the fourth quarter of 2001 on a Lockheed Martin Atlas III launch vehicle from
Cape Canaveral, Fla. EchoStar VIII is expected to launch during the first
quarter of 2002 on a Russian Proton K launch vehicle from the Baikonur
Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.
F-33