Biggest changeThe amounts included in the table below, derived from Charter’s public filings, represent Charter’s results for each of the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021 and 2020. Years ended December 31, 2022 2021 2020 amounts in millions Revenue $ 54,022 51,682 48,097 Operating expenses, excluding stock-based compensation (32,687) (31,381) (29,637) Adjusted OIBDA 21,335 20,301 18,460 Depreciation and amortization (8,903) (9,345) (9,704) Stock-based compensation (470) (430) (351) Operating income 11,962 10,526 8,405 Other expenses, net (4,500) (4,138) (4,103) Net income (loss) before income taxes 7,462 6,388 4,302 Income tax benefit (expense) (1,613) (1,068) (626) Net income (loss) $ 5,849 5,320 3,676 Charter’s revenue increased $2.3 billion and $3.6 billion during the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively, as compared to the corresponding prior years.
Biggest changeThe amounts included in the table below, derived from Charter’s public filings, represent Charter’s results for each of the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022. Years ended December 31, 2023 2022 amounts in millions Revenue $ 54,607 54,022 Operating expenses, excluding stock-based compensation (32,660) (32,687) Adjusted OIBDA 21,947 21,335 Depreciation and amortization (8,696) (8,903) Stock-based compensation (692) (470) Operating income (loss) 12,559 11,962 Other income (expense), net (5,705) (4,500) Net income (loss) before income taxes 6,854 7,462 Income tax benefit (expense) (1,593) (1,613) Net income (loss) $ 5,261 5,849 Charter’s revenue increased $585 million during the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to the same period in 2022, primarily due to growth in residential Internet revenue, mobile device sales and residential mobile service revenue partly offset by lower residential video and advertising sales revenue, as well as $68 million of total customer credits related to the temporary loss of Disney programming during 2023.
GCI Holdings continues to monitor these impacts closely and, if costs continue to rise, may be unable to recoup losses or offset diminished margins by passing these costs through to its customers or implementing offsetting cost reductions. Rural Health Care (“RHC”) Program GCI Holdings receives support from various Universal Service Fund ("USF") programs including the RHC Program.
GCI Holdings continues to monitor these impacts closely and, if costs continue to rise, GCI Holdings may be unable to recoup losses or offset diminished margins by passing these costs through to its customers or implementing offsetting cost reductions. Rural Health Care (“RHC”) Program GCI Holdings receives support from various Universal Service Fund ("USF") programs including the RHC Program.
On January 26, 2023, the Commission adopted an Order on Reconsideration, Report and Order, and Second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, which grants the petitions challenging the rates database, returns the RHC Telecom Program to the rate determination rules in place prior to the adoption of the rates database, permits providers to determine rural rates based on previously approved rates through the funding years ending June 30, 2025 and June 30, 2026, and seeks comment on future revisions to the rate determination rules.
On January 26, 2023, the FCC adopted an Order on Reconsideration, Report and Order, and Second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, which grants the petitions challenging the rates database, returns the RHC Telecom Program to the rate determination rules in place prior to the adoption of the rates database, permits providers to determine rural rates based on previously approved rates through the funding years ending June 30, 2025 and June 30, 2026, and seeks comment on future revisions to the rate determination rules.
We define Adjusted OIBDA as operating income (loss) plus depreciation and amortization, stock-based compensation, transaction costs, separately reported litigation settlements, restructuring, and impairment charges. Our chief operating decision maker and management team use this measure of performance in conjunction with other measures to evaluate our businesses and make decisions about allocating resources among our businesses.
We define Adjusted OIBDA as operating income (loss) plus depreciation and amortization, stock-based compensation, separately reported litigation settlements, restructuring, and impairment charges. Our chief operating decision maker and management team use this measure of performance in conjunction with other measures to evaluate our businesses and make decisions about allocating resources among our businesses.
In November 2017, the Universal Service Administrative Company ("USAC") requested further information in support of the rural rates charged to a number of GCI Holdings' RHC customers in connection with the funding requests for the year that runs July 1, 2017 through June 30, 2018.
In November 2017, the Universal Service Administrative Company ("USAC") requested further information in support of the rural rates charged to a number of GCI Holdings' RHC customers in connection with the funding requests for the year that ran July 1, 2017 through June 30, 2018.
The DOJ is investigating whether GCI Holdings submitted false claims and/or statements in connection with GCI’s participation in the FCC’s RHC Program. On July 14, 2021, the DOJ issued a Civil Investigative Demand with regard to the qui tam action.
The DOJ was investigating whether GCI Holdings submitted false claims and/or statements in connection with GCI’s participation in the FCC’s RHC Program. On July 14, 2021, the DOJ issued a Civil Investigative Demand with regard to the qui tam action.
Liquidity and Capital Resources As of December 31, 2022, substantially all of our cash and cash equivalents are invested in U.S. Treasury securities, other government securities or government guaranteed funds, AAA rated money market funds and other highly rated financial and corporate debt instruments.
Liquidity and Capital Resources As of December 31, 2023, substantially all of our cash and cash equivalents are invested in U.S. Treasury securities, other government securities or government guaranteed funds, AAA rated money market funds and other highly rated financial and corporate debt instruments.
On April 21, 2021, representatives of the Department of Justice (“DOJ”) informed GCI Holdings that a qui tam action has been filed in the Western District of Washington arising from the subject matter under review by the Enforcement Bureau.
On April 21, 2021, representatives of the Department of Justice (“DOJ”) informed GCI Holdings that a qui tam action had been filed in the Western District of Washington arising from the subject matter under review by the Enforcement Bureau.
This includes inquiry into the rates charged by GCI Holdings and other aspects related to the Enforcement Bureau’s review of GCI Holdings’ compliance with program rules, which are discussed separately below.
This included inquiry into the rates charged by GCI Holdings and other aspects related to the Enforcement Bureau’s review of GCI Holdings’ compliance with program rules, which are discussed separately below.
The following are potential sources of liquidity: available cash balances, cash generated by the operating activities of our privately-owned subsidiaries (to the extent such cash exceeds the working capital needs of the subsidiaries and is not otherwise restricted), monetization of investments (including Charter Repurchases (as defined in note 6 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements and discussed below)), outstanding or anticipated debt facilities (as defined in note 8 to the accompany consolidated financial statements), debt and equity issuances, and dividend and interest receipts.
The following are potential sources of liquidity: available cash balances, cash generated by the operating activities of our privately-owned subsidiaries (to the extent such cash exceeds the working capital needs of the subsidiaries and is not otherwise restricted), monetization of investments (including Charter Repurchases (as defined in note 5 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements and discussed below)), outstanding or anticipated debt facilities (as discussed in note 7 to the accompany consolidated financial statements), debt and equity issuances, and dividend and interest receipts.
The projected uses of our cash are the potential buyback of common stock under the approved share buyback program, net capital expenditures of approximately $185 million, approximately $175 million for interest payments on outstanding debt, approximately $15 million for preferred stock dividends, funding of any operational needs of our subsidiaries, to reimburse Liberty for amounts due under various agreements and to fund potential investment opportunities.
The projected uses of our cash are the potential buyback of common stock under the approved share buyback program, net capital expenditures of approximately $200 million, approximately $210 million for interest payments on outstanding debt, approximately $15 million for preferred stock dividends, funding of any operational needs of our subsidiaries, to reimburse Liberty for amounts due under various agreements and to fund potential investment opportunities.
This process requires our management to make judgments regarding the timing and probability of the ultimate tax impact of the various agreements and transactions that we enter into. Based on these judgments we may record tax reserves or adjustments to valuation allowances on deferred tax assets to reflect the expected realizability of future tax benefits.
This process requires our management to make judgments regarding the timing and probability of the ultimate tax impact of the various agreements and transactions that we enter into. Based on these judgments we may record tax reserves or adjustments to valuation allowances on deferred tax assets to reflect the expected II-14 Table of Contents realizability of future tax benefits.
Strategies and Challenges Executive Summary GCI Holdings, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, provides a full range of data, wireless, video, voice, and managed services to residential customers, businesses, governmental entities, and educational and medical institutions primarily in Alaska under the GCI brand.
II-2 Table of Contents Strategies and Challenges Executive Summary GCI Holdings, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, provides a full range of data, wireless, video, voice, and managed services to residential customers, businesses, governmental entities, and educational and medical institutions primarily in Alaska under the GCI brand.
Overview Liberty Broadband Corporation (“Liberty Broadband,” “the Company,” “us,” “we,” or “our”) is primarily comprised of GCI Holdings, LLC (“GCI Holdings” or “GCI”) (as of December 18, 2020), a wholly owned subsidiary, and an equity method investment in Charter Communications, Inc. (“Charter”).
Overview Liberty Broadband Corporation (“Liberty Broadband,” “the Company,” “us,” “we,” or “our”) is primarily comprised of GCI Holdings, LLC (“GCI Holdings” or “GCI”), a wholly owned subsidiary, and an equity method investment in Charter Communications, Inc. (“Charter”).
Subsequently, GCI identified rates for similar services provided by a competitor that would justify higher rates for certain GCI satellite services in the funding years that ended on June 30, 2018, June 30, 2019, and June 30, 2020. GCI submitted that information to the Bureau on September 7, 2021. The Applications for Review remain pending.
Subsequently, GCI identified rates for similar services provided by a competitor that would justify higher rates for certain GCI satellite services in the funding years that ended on June 30, 2018, June 30, 2019, and June 30, 2020. GCI submitted that information to the Bureau on September 7, 2021.
GCI Holdings notified the FCC’s Enforcement Bureau of the potential compliance issues; however, the Company is unable to assess the ultimate outcome of the potential compliance issues and is unable to reasonably estimate any range of loss or possible loss. Revision of Support Calculations.
GCI Holdings notified the FCC’s Enforcement Bureau of the potential compliance issues; however, the Company is unable to assess the ultimate outcome of the potential compliance issues and is unable to reasonably estimate any range of loss or possible loss.
Although it is reasonably possible we may incur losses upon conclusion of such matters, an estimate of any loss or range of loss cannot be made, except for those matters disclosed in notes 10 and 14 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.
Although it is reasonably possible we may incur losses upon conclusion of such matters, an estimate of any loss or range of loss cannot be made, except for those matters disclosed in notes 9 and 13 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.
II-15 Table of Contents The Company periodically reviews the carrying value of its intangible assets with definite lives and other long-lived assets to be used in operations whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets or asset groups might not be recoverable.
The Company periodically reviews the carrying value of its intangible assets with definite lives and other long-lived assets to be used in operations whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets or asset groups might not be recoverable.
The Alaska economy is subject to recessionary pressures as a result of the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, volatility in oil prices, inflation, and other causes that could result in a decrease in economic activity.
The Alaska economy is subject to recessionary pressures as a result of the economic impacts of volatility in oil prices, inflation, and other causes that could result in a decrease in economic activity.
Factors that would necessitate an impairment assessment include a significant adverse change in the extent or manner in which an asset is used, a significant adverse change in legal factors or the business climate that could affect the value of the asset group, or a significant decline in the observable market value of an asset group, among others.
Factors that would necessitate an impairment assessment include a significant adverse change in the extent or manner in which an asset is used, a significant adverse change in legal factors or the business climate that II-13 Table of Contents could affect the value of the asset group, or a significant decline in the observable market value of an asset group, among others.
GCI Holdings provides a full range of data, wireless, video, voice, and managed services to residential, businesses, governmental entities, and educational and medical institutions primarily in Alaska.
Results of Operations—GCI Holdings, LLC GCI Holdings provides a full range of data, wireless, video, voice, and managed services to residential, businesses, governmental entities, and educational and medical institutions primarily in Alaska.
As of December 31, 2022, the Company had net accounts receivable from the RHC Program in the amount of approximately $80 million, which is included within Trade and other receivables in the consolidated balance sheets. FCC Rate Reduction.
As of December 31, 2023, the Company had net accounts receivable from the RHC Program in the amount of approximately $74 million, which is included within Trade and other receivables in the consolidated balance sheets. FCC Rate Reduction.
GCI Holdings collected approximately $175 million in accounts receivable relating to these two funding years during the year ended December 31, 2021. GCI Holdings also filed an Application for Review of these II-4 Table of Contents determinations.
GCI Holdings collected approximately $175 million in accounts receivable relating to these two funding years during the year ended December 31, 2021. GCI Holdings also filed an Application for Review of these determinations.
Amounts do not assume additional borrowings or refinancings of existing debt. (2) Amounts (i) are based on our outstanding debt at December 31, 2022, (ii) assume the interest rates on our variable rate debt remain constant at the December 31, 2022 rates and (iii) assume that our existing debt is repaid at contractual maturity.
Amounts do not assume additional borrowings or refinancings of existing debt. II-12 Table of Contents (2) Amounts (i) are based on our outstanding debt at December 31, 2023, (ii) assume the interest rates on our variable rate debt remain constant at the December 31, 2023 rates and (iii) assume that our existing debt is repaid at contractual maturity.
Charter is a leading broadband connectivity company and cable operator serving more than 32 million customers in 41 states through its Spectrum brand. Over an advanced high-capacity, two-way telecommunications network, Charter offers a full range of state-of-the-art residential and business services including Spectrum Internet, TV, Mobile and Voice.
Charter is a leading broadband connectivity company and cable operator serving more than 32 million customers in 41 states through its Spectrum brand. Over an advanced communications network, Charter offers a full range of state-of-the-art residential and business services including Spectrum Internet, TV, Mobile and Voice.
In addition, during 2022, GCI Holdings began to experience the impact of inflation-sensitive items, including upward pressure on the costs of materials, labor, and other items that are critical to GCI Holding’s business.
In addition, during 2022 and continuing in 2023, GCI Holdings began to experience the impact of inflation-sensitive items, including upward pressure on the costs of materials, labor, and other items that are critical to GCI Holdings’ business.
II-5 Table of Contents The DOJ and GCI Holdings held discussions regarding the qui tam action whereby the DOJ clarified that its investigation relates to the years from 2010 through 2019 and alleged that GCI Holdings had submitted false claims under the RHC Program during this time period.
The DOJ and GCI Holdings held discussions regarding the qui tam action whereby the DOJ clarified that its investigation relates to the years from 2010 through 2019 and alleged that GCI Holdings had submitted false claims under the RHC Program during this time period.
In the fourth quarter of 2019, GCI Holdings became aware of potential RHC Program compliance issues related to certain of GCI Holdings’ currently active and expired contracts with certain of its RHC customers.
II-4 Table of Contents In the fourth quarter of 2019, GCI Holdings became aware of potential RHC Program compliance issues related to certain of GCI Holdings’ currently active and expired contracts with certain of its RHC customers.
Amortization related to debt and intangible assets with identifiable useful lives is included in the Company’s share of earnings (losses) from affiliates line item in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations and aggregated $232 million, $234 million, and $144 million, net of related taxes, for the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Amortization related to debt and intangible assets with identifiable useful lives is included in the Company’s share of earnings (losses) from affiliates line item in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations and aggregated $277 million and $232 million, net of related taxes, for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
We provide information regarding our consolidated operating results and other income and expenses, as well as information regarding the contribution to those items from our reportable segments in the tables below. The "Corporate and other" category consists of those assets or businesses which do not qualify as a separate reportable segment.
II-6 Table of Contents Results of Operations—Consolidated General. We provide information regarding our consolidated operating results and other income and expenses, as well as information regarding the contribution to those items from our reportable segments in the tables below. The "Corporate and other" category consists of those assets or businesses which do not qualify as a separate reportable segment.
During May 2014, the board of directors of Liberty Media Corporation and its subsidiaries (“Liberty”) authorized management to pursue a plan to spin-off to its stockholders common stock of a wholly-owned subsidiary, Liberty Broadband, and to distribute subscription rights to acquire shares of Liberty Broadband’s common stock (the “Broadband Spin-Off”).
During May 2014, the board of directors of Liberty Media Corporation and its subsidiaries (“Liberty”) authorized management to pursue a plan to spin-off to its stockholders common stock of a wholly-owned subsidiary, Liberty Broadband, and to distribute subscription rights to acquire shares of Liberty Broadband’s common stock (the “Broadband Spin-Off”). On December 18, 2020, GCI Liberty, Inc.
Charter also distributes award-winning news coverage and sports programming to its customers through Spectrum Networks. At December 31, 2022, Liberty Broadband owned approximately 47.2 million shares of Charter Class A common stock, representing an approximate 30.9% economic ownership interest in Charter’s issued and outstanding shares.
Charter also distributes award-winning news coverage and sports programming to its customers through Spectrum Networks. At December 31, 2023, Liberty Broadband owned approximately 46.3 million shares of Charter Class A common stock, representing an approximate 31.9% economic ownership interest in Charter’s issued and outstanding shares.
Charter’s principal competitors for video services are DBS service providers, as well as virtual multichannel video programming distributors such as Hulu Live, YouTube TV, Sling TV, Philo and DirecTV Stream. Charter’s principal competitors for Internet services are the broadband services provided by companies, including fiber-to-the-home, fixed wireless broadband, Internet delivered via satellite and DSL services.
Charter’s principal competitors for video services are virtual multichannel video programming distributors such as Hulu Live, YouTube TV, Sling TV, Philo and DirecTV Stream, as well as direct broadcast satellite service providers. Charter’s principal competitors for Internet services are the broadband services provided by companies, including fiber-to-the-home, fixed wireless broadband, Internet delivered via satellite and digital subscriber line services.
The Company’s income approach model used for its reporting unit valuation is consistent with that used for the cable certificates except that cash flows from the entire business enterprise are used. II-16 Table of Contents Income Taxes.
The Company’s income approach model used for its reporting unit valuation is consistent with that used for the cable certificates except that cash flows from the entire business enterprise are used. Income Taxes.
As of December 31, 2022, property and equipment and customer relationships have weighted average remaining useful lives of approximately 5 years and 8 years, respectively. Outstanding debt is amortized over the contractual period using the straight-line method.
As of December 31, 2023, property and equipment and customer relationships have weighted average remaining useful lives of approximately 4 years and 7 years, respectively. Outstanding debt is amortized over the contractual period using the straight-line method.
During the year ended December 31, 2022, net cash flows used in financing activities were primarily repurchases of Series A and Series C Liberty Broadband common stock of $2.9 billion, partially offset by net borrowings of debt of approximately $100 million of outstanding Revolving Loans (as defined in note 8 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements) under the Margin Loan Facility.
During the year ended December 31, 2022, net cash flows used in financing activities were primarily repurchases of Liberty Broadband Series A and Series C common stock of $2.9 billion, partially offset by net borrowings of debt of approximately $100 million of outstanding Revolving Loans under the Margin Loan Facility.
(“Skyhook”) was a wholly owned subsidiary of Liberty Broadband until its sale on May 2, 2022 for aggregate consideration of approximately $194 million, including amounts held in escrow of approximately $23 million.
(“Skyhook”) was a wholly owned subsidiary of Liberty Broadband until its sale on May 2, 2022 for aggregate consideration of approximately $194 million, including amounts held in escrow of approximately $23 million that were released to Liberty Broadband on May 3, 2023.
On May 24, 2021, the FCC approved the cost studies submitted by GCI Holdings for the funding year ended June 30, 2021. Subsequently, on August 16, 2021, GCI submitted a request for approval of rates for 17 additional sites, 13 of which the FCC approved on December 22, 2022. The rest remain pending. RHC Program Funding Cap.
On May 24, 2021, the FCC approved the cost studies submitted by GCI Holdings for the funding year ended June 30, 2021. Subsequently, on August 16, 2021, GCI submitted a request for approval of rates for 17 additional sites, all of which the FCC approved. RHC Program Funding Cap.
GCI Holdings continues to work with the DOJ related to this matter and has recorded a $14 million estimated settlement expense during the year ended December 31, 2022 to reflect discussions and settlement offers that GCI Holdings made to the DOJ during 2022.
During the year ended December 31, 2022, GCI Holdings recorded a $14 million estimated settlement expense to reflect discussions and settlement offers that GCI Holdings made to the DOJ.
The decrease in 2021 is primarily due to decreases in issuance of Charter’s common stock from the exercise of stock options held by employees and other third parties, partially offset by a gain on dilution related to Charter’s repurchase of Liberty Broadband’s Charter shares.
The loss on dilution of investment in affiliate decreased primarily due to a decrease in issuance of Charter common stock from the exercise of stock options and restricted stock units held by employees and other third parties, partially offset by a smaller gain on dilution related to Charter’s repurchase of Liberty Broadband’s Charter shares.
During the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, net cash flows provided by investing activities were primarily related to the sale of 6,168,174 and 6,077,664 shares of Charter Class A common stock for $3.0 billion and $4.2 billion, respectively, to maintain our fully diluted ownership percentage of Charter at 26%.
During the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, net cash flows provided by investing activities were primarily related to the sale of Charter Class A common stock for $394 million and $3.0 billion, respectively, to maintain our fully diluted ownership percentage of Charter at 26%.
Net earnings (losses) We had net earnings of $1,257 million, $732 million and $398 million for the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The change in net earnings (losses) was the result of the above-described fluctuations in our revenue, expenses and other gains and losses.
Net earnings (losses) We had net earnings of $688 million and $1.3 billion for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The change in net earnings (losses) was the result of the above-described fluctuations in our revenue, expenses and other gains and losses.
The following table highlights selected key performance indicators used in evaluating GCI Holdings. December 31, 2022 2021 2020 Consumer Data: Cable modem subscribers 1 157,200 151,900 140,600 Wireless: Wireless lines in service 2 191,100 185,200 176,900 1 A cable modem subscriber is defined by the purchase of cable modem service regardless of the level of service purchased.
The following table highlights selected key performance indicators used in evaluating GCI Holdings. December 31, 2023 2022 Consumer Data: Cable modem subscribers 1 159,700 157,200 Wireless: Wireless lines in service 2 197,300 191,100 1 A cable modem subscriber is defined by the purchase of cable modem service regardless of the level of service purchased.
A growing number of commercial areas, such as retail malls, restaurants and airports, offer WiFi Internet service. Numerous local governments are also considering or actively pursuing publicly subsidized WiFi Internet access networks. These options offer alternatives to cable-based Internet access.
A growing number of commercial areas, such as retail malls, restaurants and airports, offer WiFi Internet service. Numerous local governments are also considering or actively pursuing publicly subsidized WiFi Internet access networks. In addition, providers are constructing open access networks that can deliver services from multiple underlying Internet service providers. These options offer alternatives to cable-based Internet access.
In addition, Charter continues to evolve and upgrade its network to provide higher Internet speeds and reliability and invest in its products and customer service platforms.
Charter continues to upgrade its network to provide higher Internet speeds and reliability and invest in its products and customer service platforms. Charter also continues to develop its video product.
II-11 Table of Contents Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on financial instruments, net Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on financial instruments, net are comprised of changes in the fair value of the following: Years ended December 31, 2022 2021 2020 amounts in millions Indemnification obligation $ 273 21 (9) Exchangeable senior debentures 61 46 (74) $ 334 67 (83) The changes in these accounts are primarily due to market factors and changes in the fair value of the underlying stocks or financial instruments to which these related (see notes 5 and 8 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements for additional discussion).
Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on financial instruments, net Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on financial instruments, net are comprised of changes in the fair value of the following: Years ended December 31, 2023 2022 amounts in millions Indemnification obligation $ 5 273 Exchangeable senior debentures (106) 61 $ (101) 334 The changes in these accounts are primarily due to market factors and changes in the fair value of the underlying stocks or financial instruments to which these related (see notes 4 and 7 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements for additional discussion).
Through a number of prior years’ transactions, including the Combination, Liberty Broadband has acquired an interest in Charter Communications, Inc. (“Charter”). Liberty Broadband controls 25.01% of the aggregate voting power of Charter. Skyhook Holdings, Inc.
(“GCI Liberty”), the parent company of GCI Holdings, was acquired by Liberty Broadband (the “Combination”). Through a number of prior years’ transactions, including the Combination, Liberty Broadband has acquired an interest in Charter. Liberty Broadband controls 25.01% of the aggregate voting power of Charter. Skyhook Holdings, Inc.
Operating income decreased at GCI Holdings for the year ended December 31, 2022, as compared to the corresponding prior year period, and increased for the year ended December 31, 2021, as compared to the corresponding prior year period. See “Results of Operations – GCI Holdings, LLC” below for a more complete discussion of the results of operations of GCI Holdings.
Revenue at GCI Holdings increased $12 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to the corresponding prior year period. See “Results of Operations – GCI Holdings, LLC” below for a more complete discussion of the results of operations of GCI Holdings.
In 2022, Charter also made targeted investments in employee wages and benefits inside of its operations to build employee skill sets and tenure as well as continued investments in digitization of its customer service platforms and proactive maintenance all with the goal of improving the customer experience, reducing transactions and driving customer growth.
Charter is also beginning to see operational benefits from the targeted investments it is making in employee wages and benefits to build employee skill sets and tenure, as well as the continued investments in digitization of customer service platforms and proactive maintenance, all with the goal of improving the customer experience, reducing transactions and driving customer growth and retention.
Income taxes Earnings (losses) before income taxes and income tax (expense) benefit are as follows: Years ended December 31, 2022 2021 2020 amounts in millions Earnings (loss) before income taxes $ 1,534 950 361 Income tax (expense) benefit (277) (218) 37 Effective income tax rate 18% 23% 10% Our effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2022 was 18%.
II-10 Table of Contents Income taxes Earnings (losses) before income taxes and income tax (expense) benefit are as follows: Years ended December 31, 2023 2022 amounts in millions Earnings (loss) before income taxes $ 888 1,534 Income tax (expense) benefit (200) (277) Effective income tax rate 23% 18% Our effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2023 was 23%.
The increase in 2022 was driven by higher interest rates on our variable rate debt. The increase in 2021 was driven by additional amounts outstanding on the Margin Loan Facility, the 2.75% Debentures and the 1.25% Debentures (each as defined in note 8 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements).
The increase was driven by higher interest rates on our variable rate debt and by higher amounts outstanding on the Margin Loan Facility (as defined in note 7 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements).
There is a risk that GCI Holdings’ accounts receivable and bad debt expense could increase substantially in a recessionary environment. If a recession occurs, it could negatively affect GCI Holdings’ business including its financial position, results of operations, or liquidity, as well as its ability to service debt, pay other obligations and enhance shareholder returns.
If a recession occurs, it could negatively affect GCI Holdings’ business including its financial position, results of operations, or liquidity, as well as its ability to service debt, pay other obligations and enhance shareholder returns.
By continually improving its product set and offering consumers the opportunity to save money by switching to its services, Charter believes it can continue to penetrate its expanding footprint and attract more spend on additional products for its existing customers. Results of Operations—Consolidated General.
By continually improving its product set and offering consumers the opportunity to save money by switching to Charter’s services, Charter believes it can continue to penetrate its expanding footprint and sell additional products to existing customers.
Information concerning the amount and timing of current and long-term material cash requirements, both accrued and off-balance sheet, excluding loss contingencies and uncertain tax positions, if any, where it is indeterminable when payments will be made, is summarized below: Payments due by period Less than After Total 1 year 2 - 3 years 4 - 5 years 5 years amounts in millions Material Cash Requirements Debt (1) $ 3,817 3 1,406 391 2,017 Preferred stock liquidation value 180 — — — 180 Interest expense and preferred stock dividends (2) 1,339 184 221 170 764 Finance and operating lease obligations 128 48 55 11 14 Tower obligations, including interest 140 8 16 16 100 Purchase obligations 119 59 37 16 7 Total $ 5,723 302 1,735 604 3,082 (1) Amounts are reflected in the table at the outstanding principal amount at December 31, 2022, assuming the debt instrument will remain outstanding until the stated maturity date, and may differ from the amounts stated in our consolidated balance sheet to the extent debt instruments (i) were issued at a discount or premium or II-14 Table of Contents (ii) have elements which are reported at fair value in our consolidated balance sheets.
Information concerning the amount and timing of current and long-term material cash requirements, both accrued and off-balance sheet, excluding loss contingencies and uncertain tax positions, if any, where it is indeterminable when payments will be made, is summarized below: Payments due by period Less than After Total 1 year 2 - 3 years 4 - 5 years 5 years amounts in millions Material Cash Requirements Debt (1) $ 3,724 3 1,616 838 1,267 Preferred stock liquidation value 180 — — — 180 Interest expense and preferred stock dividends (2) 1,847 221 370 169 1,087 Finance and operating lease obligations 122 49 47 13 13 Tower obligations, including interest 132 8 16 17 91 Purchase obligations 158 116 37 5 — Total $ 6,163 397 2,086 1,042 2,638 (1) Amounts are reflected in the table at the outstanding principal amount at December 31, 2023, assuming the debt instrument will remain outstanding until the stated maturity date and may differ from the amounts stated in our consolidated balance sheet to the extent debt instruments (i) were issued at a discount or premium or (ii) have elements which are reported at fair value in our consolidated balance sheets.
GCI Holdings’ Adjusted OIBDA improved $4 million and $344 million in the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively, as compared to the corresponding prior year periods. See “Results of Operations – GCI Holdings, LLC” below for a more complete discussion of the results of operations of GCI Holdings.
GCI Holdings’ Adjusted OIBDA improved $3 million in the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to the same period in 2022. See “Results of Operations – GCI Holdings, LLC” below for a more complete discussion of the results of operations of GCI Holdings.
Charter’s principal competitors for voice and mobile services are other mobile and wireline phone providers, as well as other forms of communication, such as text messaging on cellular phones, instant messaging, social networking services, video conferencing and email.
In addition, providers are constructing open access networks that can deliver services from multiple underlying Internet service providers. Charter’s principal competitors for voice and mobile services are other mobile and wireline phone providers, as well as other forms of communication, such as text messaging on cellular phones, instant messaging, social networking services, video conferencing and email.
(“Qurate Retail”) that resulted in increased losses of $69 million and $12 million for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively. See more discussion about the tax sharing agreement with Qurate Retail in note 1 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.
The tax sharing receivable with Qurate Retail resulted in tax sharing income of $11 million and tax sharing loss of $79 million for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. See more discussion about the tax sharing agreement with Qurate Retail in note 1 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.
Litigation settlement increased $29 million for the year ended December 31, 2022, as compared to the corresponding prior year period. This was due to an increase in the estimated liability of $29 million relating to compliance with RHC program rules which reflects settlement offers that GCI Holdings made to the DOJ and the Enforcement Bureau of the FCC in 2022.
Litigation settlement decreased $29 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to the same period in 2022. The litigation settlement of $29 million recorded during 2022 was an increase in the estimated liability relating to compliance with RHC Program rules which reflect settlement offers that GCI Holdings made to the DOJ in June and September 2022.
See “Results of Operations – GCI Holdings, LLC” below for a more complete discussion of the results of operations of GCI Holdings. II-7 Table of Contents Revenue for Corporate and other decreased for the year ended December 31, 2022, as compared to the corresponding prior year period, due to the sale of Skyhook.
See “Results of Operations – GCI Holdings, LLC” below for a more complete discussion of the results of operations of GCI Holdings. II-7 Table of Contents Operating loss for Corporate and other improved $49 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to the same period in 2022.
In February 2021, Liberty Broadband entered into a letter agreement in order to implement, facilitate and satisfy the terms of the Stockholders Agreement with respect to the Equity Cap (see more information in note 6 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements). The Company expects the Charter Repurchases to be a significant source of liquidity in future periods.
In February 2021, Liberty Broadband entered into a letter agreement in order to implement, facilitate and satisfy the terms of the Stockholders Agreement with respect to the Equity Cap (see more information II-11 Table of Contents in note 5 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements).
Programming costs decreased during 2022 compared to the corresponding period in 2021 as a result of fewer customers and a higher mix of lower cost video packages within Charter’s video customer base, offset by contractual rate adjustments, including renewals and increases in amounts paid for retransmission consent.
Operating costs during the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to the same period in 2022 , were impacted by lower programming costs as a result of a higher mix of lower cost video packages within Charter’s video customer base, fewer customers and a $61 million benefit related to the temporary loss of Disney programming during 2023, partly offset by contractual rate adjustments, including renewals and increases in amounts paid for retransmission consent.
This was the result of both the transition from traditional linear video delivery to IP delivery and GCI Holdings’ decision to discontinue selling bulk video packages for multi-dwelling units.
Consumer other revenue consists of consumer video and voice revenue. The decrease was due to a decrease in video revenue primarily driven by decreased video subscribers. This was the result of both the transition from traditional linear video delivery to IP delivery and GCI Holdings’ decision to discontinue selling bulk video packages for multi-dwelling units.
Mounting inflationary cost pressures and recessionary fears have negatively impacted the U.S. and global economy. Unfavorable economic conditions, such as a recession or economic slowdown in the U.S., or inflation in the markets in which GCI operates, could negatively affect the affordability of and demand for GCI’s products and services and its cost of doing business.
Unfavorable economic conditions, such as a recession or economic slowdown in the U.S., or inflation in the markets in which GCI operates, could negatively affect the affordability of and demand for GCI’s products and services and its cost of doing business. The Alaska economy is dependent upon the oil industry, state and federal spending, investment earnings and tourism.
II-3 Table of Contents GCI Holdings GCI Holdings offers wireless and wireline telecommunication services, data services, video services, and managed services to customers primarily throughout Alaska. Because of this geographic concentration, growth of GCI Holdings’ business and operations depends upon economic conditions in Alaska.
GCI Holdings GCI Holdings offers wireless and wireline telecommunication services, data services, video services, and managed services to customers primarily throughout Alaska. Because of this geographic concentration, growth of GCI Holdings’ business and operations depends upon economic conditions in Alaska. In recent years, varying factors have contributed to significant volatility and disruption of financial markets and global supply chains.
The Alaska economy is dependent upon the oil industry, state and federal spending, investment earnings and tourism. A decline in oil prices would put significant pressure on the Alaska state government budget. The Alaska state government has significant reserves that GCI Holdings believes will help fund the state government for the next couple of years.
A decline in oil prices would put significant pressure on the Alaska state government budget. The Alaska state government has financial reserves that GCI Holdings believes may be able to help fund the state government for the next couple of years.
Other Income and Expense: Components of Other Income (Expense) are presented in the table below. Years ended December 31, 2022 2021 2020 amounts in millions Other income (expense): Interest expense $ (133) (117) (28) Share of earnings (losses) of affiliate 1,326 1,194 713 Gain (loss) on dilution of investment in affiliate (63) (102) (184) Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on financial instruments, net 334 67 (83) Gain (loss) on dispositions, net 179 12 — Other, net (70) (6) 3 $ 1,573 1,048 421 Interest expense Interest expense increased $16 million and $89 million during the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively, as compared to the corresponding prior year periods.
Other Income and Expense: Components of Other income (expense) are presented in the table below. Years ended December 31, 2023 2022 amounts in millions Other income (expense): Interest expense $ (206) (133) Share of earnings (losses) of affiliate 1,155 1,326 Gain (loss) on dilution of investment in affiliate (60) (63) Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on financial instruments, net (101) 334 Gain (loss) on dispositions, net — 179 Other, net 27 (70) $ 815 1,573 Interest expense Interest expense increased $73 million during the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to the same period in 2022.
If one entity purchases multiple cable modem service access points, each access point is counted as a subscriber. 2 A wireless line in service is defined as a wireless device with a monthly fee for services.
If one entity purchases multiple cable modem service access points, each access point is counted as a subscriber.
Other, net Other, net expense increased $64 million and $9 million for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively, as compared to the corresponding prior year periods. The increase in both years was primarily due to a tax sharing receivable with Qurate Retail, Inc.
Other, net Other, net income increased $97 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to the same period in 2022. The increase was primarily due to a tax sharing receivable with Qurate Retail, Inc. (“Qurate Retail”).
II-17 Table of Contents GCI Holdings’ operating results for the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021 and 2020 are as follows: Years ended December 31, 2022 2021 2020 amounts in millions Revenue $ 969 970 949 Operating expenses (excluding stock-based compensation included below): Operating expense (250) (272) (271) Selling, general and administrative expenses (361) (344) (333) Adjusted OIBDA 358 354 345 Stock-based compensation (13) (16) (10) Litigation settlement (29) — — Depreciation and amortization (262) (266) (248) Operating income (loss) $ 54 72 87 Revenue The components of revenue are as follows: Years ended December 31, 2022 2021 2020 amounts in millions Consumer Data $ 231 214 188 Wireless 193 184 171 Other 55 86 106 Business Data 395 368 339 Wireless 53 74 89 Other 42 44 56 Total revenue $ 969 970 949 Consumer data revenue increased $17 million and $26 million for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively, as compared to the corresponding prior year periods.
GCI Holdings’ operating results for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 are as follows: Years ended December 31, 2023 2022 amounts in millions Revenue $ 981 969 Operating expenses (excluding stock-based compensation included below): Operating expense (245) (250) Selling, general and administrative expenses (375) (361) Adjusted OIBDA 361 358 Stock-based compensation (14) (13) Depreciation and amortization (230) (262) Litigation settlement — (29) Operating income (loss) $ 117 54 II-15 Table of Contents Revenue The components of revenue are as follows: Years ended December 31, 2023 2022 amounts in millions Consumer Data $ 233 231 Wireless 193 193 Other 42 55 Business Data 427 395 Wireless 50 53 Other 36 42 Total revenue $ 981 969 Consumer data revenue increased $2 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to the same period in 2022.
The increase in realized and unrealized gains in 2022, compared to the corresponding period in the prior year, was primarily due to an increase in unrealized gains on the indemnification obligation, as well as the changes in fair value of the 2.75% Debentures, the 1.25% Debentures and the 1.75% Debentures related to changes in market price of the underlying Charter stock.
The changes in realized and unrealized gains (losses) for the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to the same period in 2022, were primarily due to decreases in realized and unrealized gains on the indemnification obligation, as well as the changes in fair value of the debentures outstanding for the respective periods related to changes in market price of the underlying Charter stock.
In October 2022, Charter introduced Spectrum One, which brings together Spectrum Internet, Advanced WiFi and Unlimited Spectrum Mobile, to offer consumers fast, reliable and secure online connections on their favorite devices at home and on-the-go in a high-value package which contributed to Charter’s increase in mobile lines in the fourth quarter.
Charter’s mobile line and Internet customer additions were supported by its Spectrum One offering, which brings together Spectrum Internet, Advanced WiFi and Unlimited Spectrum Mobile to offer consumers fast, reliable and secure online connections on their favorite devices at home and on-the-go in a high-value package, and were further supported by growth in Charter’s legacy and new subsidized rural markets.
See note 15 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements for more discussion regarding our reportable segments. GCI Holdings’ results are only included in the Company’s consolidated results beginning on December 18, 2020. For a more detailed discussion and analysis of GCI Holdings’ results, see "Results of Operations – GCI Holdings, LLC" below.
See note 14 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements for more discussion regarding our reportable segments. For a more detailed discussion and analysis of GCI Holdings’ results, see "Results of Operations – GCI Holdings, LLC" below. A discussion regarding our financial condition and results of operations for fiscal year 2023 compared to fiscal year 2022 is presented below.
The following table provides a reconciliation of Operating income (loss) to Adjusted OIBDA. Years ended December 31, 2022 2021 2020 amounts in millions Operating income (loss) $ (39) (98) (60) Depreciation and amortization 262 267 15 Stock-based compensation 37 41 9 Litigation settlement, net of recoveries 67 95 — Transaction costs — — 22 Adjusted OIBDA $ 327 305 (14) Adjusted OIBDA improved $22 million and $319 million in the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively, as compared to the corresponding prior year periods.
The following table provides a reconciliation of Operating income (loss) to Adjusted OIBDA. Years ended December 31, 2023 2022 amounts in millions Operating income (loss) $ 73 (39) Depreciation and amortization 230 262 Stock-based compensation 34 37 Litigation settlement — 67 Adjusted OIBDA $ 337 327 Adjusted OIBDA improved $10 million in the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to the same period in 2022.
The decreases in both years were primarily due to a decrease in depreciation and amortization as certain assets acquired in acquisitions become fully depreciated, offset by an increase in depreciation as a result of more recent capital expenditures.
Depreciation and amortization expense decreased $207 million during the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to the same period in 2022, primarily due to certain assets acquired in acquisitions becoming fully depreciated, offset by an increase in depreciation as a result of more recent capital expenditures.
Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $17 million and $11 million for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, as compared to the corresponding prior year periods. The increase in 2022 was primarily due to increases in labor related costs driven by an increase in contract labor costs.
Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $14 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to the same period in 2022. The increase was primarily due to increases in labor related costs, software contracts, bad debt and property taxes.
On January 19, 2021, the Bureau issued an Order that waives the requirement to use the database for health care providers in Alaska for the two funding years ending June 30, 2022 and June 30, 2023.
On September 30, 2020, USAC released a refreshed version of the database incorporating limited changes submitted by interested parties. On January 19, 2021, the Bureau issued an Order that waived the requirement to use the database for health care providers II-5 Table of Contents in Alaska for the two funding years ended June 30, 2022 and June 30, 2023.
Business other revenue decreased $2 million and $12 million for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively, as compared to the corresponding prior year periods. Business other revenue consists of business video and voice revenue. The decrease in 2022 was primarily due to decreased business video and long distance revenue.
The decrease was primarily due to a decrease in roaming revenue and a decrease in data plan fees due to decreased business wireless subscribers. Business other revenue decreased $6 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to the same period in 2022. Business other revenue consists of business video and voice revenue.
GCI Holdings’ customers may not be able to obtain adequate access to credit, which could affect their ability to make timely payments to GCI Holdings. In addition, adverse economic conditions may lead to an increased number of customers that are unable to pay for services.
GCI Holdings’ customers may not be able to obtain adequate II-3 Table of Contents access to credit, which could affect their ability to make timely payments to GCI Holdings and could lead to an increase in accounts receivable and bad debt expense.
Operating Results Years ended December 31, 2022 2021 2020 amounts in millions Revenue GCI Holdings $ 969 970 34 Corporate and other 6 18 17 Consolidated $ 975 988 51 Operating Income (Loss) GCI Holdings $ 54 72 (5) Corporate and other (93) (170) (55) Consolidated $ (39) (98) (60) Adjusted OIBDA GCI Holdings $ 358 354 10 Corporate and other (31) (49) (24) Consolidated $ 327 305 (14) Revenue Revenue decreased $13 million and increased $937 million for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively, as compared to the corresponding prior year periods.
Operating Results Years ended December 31, 2023 2022 amounts in millions Revenue GCI Holdings $ 981 969 Corporate and other — 6 Consolidated $ 981 975 Operating Income (Loss) GCI Holdings $ 117 54 Corporate and other (44) (93) Consolidated $ 73 (39) Adjusted OIBDA GCI Holdings $ 361 358 Corporate and other (24) (31) Consolidated $ 337 327 Revenue Revenue increased $6 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to the same period in 2022.
Share of earnings (losses) from affiliates is attributable to the Company’s ownership interest in Charter.
Share of earnings (losses) of affiliates Share of earnings from affiliates decreased $171 million during the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to the same period in 2022. Share of earnings (losses) from affiliates is attributable to the Company’s ownership interest in Charter.