CBS Corp.

Posted on April 8, 2013 by wliu30

by Weiran

Photo Courtesy of CBS Corporation [2]

CBS Headquarters,

51 W. 52nd Street,

New York, NY10019-6188

1-212-975-4321

http://www.cbscorporation.com/

Overview:

Originally founded as Viacom in 1970, The Columbia Broadcast System (CBS) Corporation separated from Viacom and became an independent new firm in 2006. It started trading on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) in January 13, 2006. CBS focuses on every field of media and entertainment, including cable, publishing, radio, local TV, film, outdoors advertising, and interactive and socially responsible media. It owns the most-watched television network in the U.S. and one of the world’s largest libraries of entertainment content.

Key Executives:

Sumner M. Redstone, Executive Chairman

Photo Courtesy of CBS Corporation [2]

Leslie Moonves, President and Chief Executive Officer, CBS Corporation

Photo Courtesy of CBS Corporation [2]

Anthony G. Ambrosio, Executive Vice President, Human Resources and Administration, CBS Corporation

Photo Courtesy of CBS Corporation [2]

Louis J. Briskman, Executive Vice President & General Counsel, CBS Corporation

Photo Courtesy of CBS Corporation [2]

Martin D. Franks, Executive Vice President, Planning, Policy and Government Affairs, CBS Corporation

Photo Courtesy of CBS Corporation [2]

The CBS Corporation:

Photo Courtesy of CBS.com [12]

CBS Television Network was founded in 1928. It offers more than 200 television stations and affiliates reaching virtually every home in the United States. The Network has the No.1 drama/scripted program, NCIS; No.1 sitcom, TWO AND A HALF MEN; and No.1 daytime drama, THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS. It programs with CBS Entertainment, CBS News, and CBS Sports.

Judge Judith Sheindlin hosts the courtroom presence on the TV show Judge Judy, Photo Courtesy of CBS Corporation [2]

CBS Television Distribution (CTD) is successful for its television syndication. It holds the largest distributed television library at 70,000 hours strong. Well-known as its critically-acclaimed programs, CBS Television Distribution produces the No.1 syndicated series Judge Judy; talk leader Dr. Phil.
As a big unit of CBS Corporation, CTD handles the domestic television distribution of CBS News, CBS Films and Showtime.

Photo Courtesy of CBS Corporation [2]

Formed as a joint venture between Warner Bros. Entertainment and CBS Corporation, the CW is the only broadcast network “targeting women 13-34”. [3] The network currently runs programming six days a week: Monday through Fridays in the afternoon and in prime time, along with a Saturday morning children’s programming block produced by Saban Brands called Vortexx.Financials:

The stock price of CBS Corporation (NYSE: CBS.A and CBS) has been going up since the beginning of this year. It has been on the top watch-list and top stocks for three month. CBS.A and CBS has become the most active NYSE stocks and surged up 2.51% to $44.88 on a traded volume of 10.59 million shares. [5] Shares of CBS Corporation closed at $44.98, up $0.29 (+0.65%) in the first trading session this year. [6]

The stock moved ahead 0.04% and closed the trading activity at $45.92. The day range of the stock was $45.44 – $46.00. The yearly trend of the stock remained positive +52.25%. [7]

CBS has seen an increase in hedge fund sentiment recently. Greenlight Capital holds the largest position in CBS Corporation (NYSE:CBS). The second is Highfields Capital Management, which held a $156 million position. Highfields Capital Management established the most valuable position in CBS Corporation (NYSE:CBS) and invested over 150 million into CBS Corporation at the end of the quarter this year.

CBS Corporation has reported regarding its intention to publish results for the Q1 f 2013 after the New York market closes on 1^st May, 2013. At the same day, CBS Corporation will also report results for the first quarter of 2013 after the market closes. The Company will then conduct a teleconference call at 4:30 PM, ET. [8]

In the News:

In March 13th, 2013, CBS Studios International and Japan’s Avex Entertainment Inc. announced the expansion of their multi-year licensing agreement to include CBS programming on SoftBank Mobile’s subscription video-on-demand service, UULA. The UULA service will include the content from CBS’s extensive television library, including early seasons of current hits such as NCIS, NCIS: Los Angeles and 90210 and full seasons of classic series such as Star Trek, Star Trek: Enterprise, Medium and The 4400. [9]

The expansion of CBS Corporation is not only international. In March 14th, it announced the launch of the new CBS App for iPhone and iPad users, offering full-episode streaming of CBS programming from primetime, daytime and late night. The new app further extends the approach of the shows’ audience, providing more flexibility and opportunity for catch-up viewing and opens yet another monetization window for the Company’s industry-leading content. [10]

In March 26th, 2013, CBS Corporation (NYSE: CBS.A and CBS) and Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF) announced that the companies have entered into a 50/50 partnership. Under the deal, CBS will acquire a 50% stake in entertainment cable network TVGN and TVGuide.com. The basic cable network will still be entertainment focused. CBS is using content brands to gain access to a highly distributed basic cable network from Lionsgate. The venture combine CBS’s programming, production and marketing assets with Lionsgate’s resources in motion pictures, television and digitally delivered content. [4]

In March 27, CBS Corporation has announced that it will be renewing 18 prime-time shows, including 4 comedies and 8 dramas. Only one of the network’s newcomers will have a new lease, Elementary. [11] Another remarkable information from this announcement is that CBS has not included one hit drama series, Criminal Minds. However, there is a possibility that it is delayed by ongoing re-negotiations of contracts for the cast.

Elementary stars Jonny Lee Miller and Lucy Liu. Photo: Craig Blankenhorn

Sources:

[1] About Us | Diversity. CBS Corporation | Home.

http://diversity.cbscorporation.com/page.php?id=3

[2] CBS Corporation | Home. (n.d.). CBS Corporation | Home.

http://www.cbscorporation.com/index.php

[3] About Us | Official Site of the CW Network | CW Television Shows | CW TV

http://www.cwtv.com/thecw/about-the-cw/

[4] CBS Corporation : CBS AND LIONSGATE ENTER 50/50 PARTNERSHIP ON HIGHLY DISTRIBUTED ENTERTAINMENT CABLE NETWORK| 4-Traders| Stock Market Quotes and News

http://www.4-traders.com/CBS-CORPORATION-14804/news/CBS-Corporation-CBS-AND-LIONSGATE-ENTER-50-50-PARTNERSHIP-ON-HIGHLY-DISTRIBUTED-ENTERTAINMENT-CABL-16583378/

[5] Most Active NYSE Stocks: Merck & Co, CBS Corporation, Advanced Micro Devices, American International Group Inc. Mar 5, 2013| Press Releases| SBWire

http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/most-active-nyse-stocks-merck-co-cbs-corporation-advanced-micro-devices-american-international-group-inc-217811.htm

[6] CBS Corporation (CBS) – Trading Recap| Avafin

http://www.avafin.com/articles/1021711.html

[7] Broadcasting – TV Big Giants: Entravision Communication (NYSE:EVC), CBS Corporation (NYSE:CBS)| NetPRNews

http://netprnews.com/broadcasting-tv-big-giants-entravision-communication-nyseevc-cbs-corporation-nysecbs/1213806/

[8] CBS Corporation: Results and News Corp Annoucement: (NYSE:CBS), (NSDAQ:NWSA)| CBS Corporation| NYSE| Shares| 4-Traders Homepage

http://www.4-traders.com/CBS-CORPORATION-14804/news/CBS-Corporation-Results-and-News-Corp-Announcement-NYSE-CBS-NASDAQ-NWSA-16506209/

[9] CBS Corporation : CBS STUDIOS INTERNATIONAL AND AVEX ENTERTAINMENT INC. EXPAND ON DEMAND MOBILE VIDEO DEAL TO SOFTBANK MOBILE’S UULA SERVICE| CBS Corporation| NYSE| Shares| 4-Traders Homepage

http://www.4-traders.com/CBS-CORPORATION-14804/news/CBS-Corporation-CBS-STUDIOS-INTERNATIONAL-AND-AVEX-ENTERTAINMENT-INC-EXPAND-ON-DEMAND-MOBILE-VIDE-16543509/

[10] CBS Corporation: CBS Launches Full-Episode Streaming App For iPad and iPhone| CBS Corporation| NYSE| Shares| 4-Traders Homepage

http://www.4-traders.com/CBS-CORPORATION-14804/news/CBS-Corporation-CBS-LAUNCHES-FULL-EPISODE-STREAMING-APP-FOR-iPAD-AND-iPHONE-16539868/

[11] CBS Corporation (NYSE:CBS) Renews 18 Prime Time TV Shows| Market News Call Home

http://www.marketnewscall.com/cbs-corporation-nysecbs-renews-18-prime-time-tv-shows/12924/

Ion Media Networks

Posted on April 8, 2013 by Michael DelloStritto

by Mike DelloStritto

Ion Media Networks [14]

601 Clearwater Park Road West Palm Beach, FL 33401

Phone: (561) 659-4122

EXECUTIVES

: Brandon Burgess, Chairman and CEO [15]

: Chris Addeo, Marketing [16]

: Jeff Quinn, Finance [17]

: Douglas Holloway, Distribution [18]

ABOUT ION MEDIA NETWORKS

Ion Media Networks was founded in 1984 under the name “Paxson Communications”. It wasn’t until 2006 that the company rebranded itself into what is now known as Ion Media Networks. The company today focuses their efforts in three areas: general entertainment television, special interest television, and mobile television.

Ion is considered a pioneer when it comes to providing their audiences with special interest television. They are the first to have launched two 24/7 DTV channels: Qubo and Ion Life [1]. Qubo is a safe haven for young kids to access entertainment that is always “good fun”. Qubo claims to be one of the few networks that offer age-appropriate programming to the underserved age group of 5 to 8 year olds. Ion Life is a channel dedicated to those with healthy, active lifestyles. The various programming options on this channel look to inspire, entertain, and encourage people to live their best possible lives.

In addition to special interest television, Ion co-founded the industry movement to bring television to mobile devices. Ion is a founding member of Mobile Content Venture (MCV), along with NBCUniversal, Fox and leading broadcast station groups [2]. Their division of mobile television, Dyle, provides viewers with access to live, local broadcast television through compatible mobile devices in select markets.

General entertainment television is Ion’s most prominent media outlet. They are a leading, high quality U.S. network, constantly providing innovation and growth to the industry. They serve an adult audience ages 25-54, and have recently expanded their reach to 260 million Americans in over 100 million U.S. households [3]. Their viewership has doubled since rebranding to “Ion Television” in 2008, climbing from nowhere to inside the top 15 cable ratings [4]. Their slogan “Positively Entertaining” lives up to the bill with syndicated programming such as: Criminal Minds, Numbers, Cold Case, and their original series Flash Point, in addition to many others. Their programming also includes various movie titles.

THE BEGINNING OF THE CAMPAIGN

Ion Television’s lineup of fully syndicated programming makes it difficult to persuade marketers to advertise on their channel. It is presumably more attractive for marketers to reach out to one of Ion’s competitors such as CBS or Fox, and advertise where programming is more diverse. Ion isn’t holding an upfront in 2013 to gain advertising on their channels like ABC, A&E, truTV, and Bravo (to name a few) are holding [5]. Instead, Ion must develop unique and creative ways to reach their advertisers.

Announced on March 4, 2013, the rebranding of Ion television and their new multi-tiered B2B campaign, introducing the ‘Ionthusiasts’, is exactly the creative buzz the network needs [6]. To go along with the campaign, Ion television will be releasing their new network logo under their already established tagline “Positively Entertaining”.

: OLD [19]

: NEW [20]

INTRODUCING THE IONTHUSIASTS

The bulk of the campaign is centered on the “Ionthusiasts”. According to independent research studies conducted by the network, Ion leads all of cable in adult co-viewing in households watching TV together. The data shows Ion is number 1 in cable for hours watched per viewer, and 69% of these committed viewers are watching marathons on a routine basis. After digesting this data, Barker DZP, the New York-based agency that developed the creative decided, “Ion viewers are highly engaged and unique in their passion for the network’s programming, they make an appointment to watch this content live for several hours at a time, which is why ‘Ionthusiasts’ is such an appropriate descriptor” [7].

Barker DZP Advertising [21]

The campaign will carry media buys across many different platforms including spots in print and out-of-home; however, the most intricate are the online spots. The network chose Barker DZP’s approach because, “their campaign truly reflected the attributes of our viewers…we found the perfect moniker that fully represents the quality of our audience and their enthusiasm for the Ion Television brand” [8].

The Ionthusiasts have a separate website displaying the three fictional couples (the Ionthusiasts) based on Ion’s key demographics: adults 25-34, 35-44, and 45-54. Each couple has a “profile” explaining some key facts about the particular age demo. These facts include: why they watch Ion Television, the percentage of having kids, some hobbies they enjoy, and their personality traits [9].

Ion Demographics [22]

Each couple even has a little video so the advertisers can see each demographic in action.

Dean & Steph [23]

Next, there is a “Learn About Ion” tab that contains a sizzle reel of their top shows [10]. However, the site goes even more in depth with an interactive section, allowing advertisers and marketers to drill down even deeper into the types of people that watch Ion Television. In order to receive a username to partake in the interactive part of the site, you must be an employee of a media planning & buying agency, advertising agency, or an advertiser [11]. Once you receive a username, you can play an interactive game that follows one of the Ionthusiasts families through their day. At each stoppage you make a decision to progress the family further along; this is useful to an advertiser because an “Ionthusiasts Fact”, which gives the player even more intricate details about the exact viewer, supports each decision you end up making. As you can see in the picture, the fact explains, through an MRI Spring 2012 Study, that Ionthusiasts are pet owners, suggesting the answer to the question is to travel to the pet store [12].

Interactive game [24]

These Ionthusiasts Facts clue marketers and advertisers into the minute details of each demographic, creating opportunities for super specified advertising to develop. For example, if Pet Smart knows that Ion has a very dedicated viewing audience, and that same dedicated audience owns pets, purchasing a media buy on this channel would be ideal for both parties. In addition to gaining insight on viewers, the marketers that play the game can earn points that go towards prizes such as iPads, vacations, and gift cards.

THE ION LONGUE

Ion Lounge [25]

Ion Media Networks did not neglect their dedicated fans through their campaign and rebrand. They developed an offshoot from the Ion Television website called the “Ion Lounge” [13]. It is a fun, colorful, and interactive site for fans to get their Ion fix long after their favorite show is over. The Ion Lounge allows you to play games and answer trivia about the shows. Each time you complete a game or answer a question right, you earn points that can later be traded in for prizes. These prizes do not compare to the Ionthusiasts prizes the marketers can win, but rather act as a token of fan-hood for the network with items such as t-shirts, tumblers, and drawstring bags. In addition, fans can create their very own “Ion Lounge” and upload it to the gallery where others can view the creation. It’s simple, but a great way to keep the viewers active with the brand.

: Ion Longue homepage [27]

: Lounge example [26]

It takes a creative genius such as those working at Barker DZP to develop such an ambitious and unique plan for attracting advertisers, but it seems as though Ion certainly has a good thing in the works thus far. It is still early in the campaign, but I’m sure they are going to be very happy with the results when it comes to an end.

Sources:

[1] Ion Media Networks Milestones

[2] Mobile Content Venture

[3] Ad Age Branded Content

[4] Ion Media Networks Milestones

[5] 2013 Upfront Season Overview

[6] TV News Check – Ion New Look

[7] TV by the Numbers – Multi-Tiered B2B

[8] Broadcasting Cable – ‘IONTHUSIASTS’ Marketing Campaign

[9] Meet the Ionthusiasts

[10] Ion Television Sizzle Reel

[11] Ionthusiasts – How it Works

[12] Ionthusiasts – Dean & Stephanie

[13] Ion Lounge

[14] Ion Media Networks Logo

[15] Brandon Burgess

[16] Chris Addeo

[17] Jeff Quinn

[18] Douglas Holloway

[19] Old Ion Logo

[20] New Ion Logo

[21] Barker DZP Logo

[22] Ion Demographics

[23] Dean & Steph

[24] Interactive game

[25] Ion Lounge

[26] Lounge example

[27] Lounge homepage

Univision

Posted on April 8, 2013 by Rafe Cohan

source:http://costonscomplaint.blogspot.com/2012/09/univision-doing-job-mainstream-media.html

Headquarters

605 Third Ave. 12th Floor

New York NY 10158

Phone: (212) 455-5200

URL: http://www.univision.com/

Key Executives

Randy Falco– CEO and COO

Before being appointed CEO, Falco was EVP and COO. Before his time with Univisio, he was chairman and CEO of AOL, Inc. Prior to this, he was President and COO of NBC Universal Television Group.

Andrew W. Hobson– Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Andrew Hobson has been EVP of Univision Network since 1994, and his successful work in strategic planning for the network has resulted in a successful climb in rank.

Jonathan Schwartz- General Counsel

Cesar Conde– President of Univision Networks

Roberto Llamas– EVP, Chief Human Resources Officer

Peter H. Lori- EVP, Controller & Chief Accounting Officer

Employees: 4,233

Company Profile

Boasting the Largest Spanish-language audience in the world (Nielsen), Univision is a television network based in America mainly targeted at spanish speaking families. The company’s beginnings date back to 1955, when Raul Cortez started a spanish-language network in San Antonio, Texas. As more hubs were added around the country, The Spanish International Network began to take shape. in 1986, the FCC mandated that the service was sold to a domestic organization. The name was then changed to Univision, and the network started to design their programming around a national audience. Univision acquired the Hispanic Broadcastic Corporation in 2003 and created Univision Radio, the largest spanish radio network in America. More recently, the addition of the Univision Deportes Network, a 24 hour sports channel, Univision tlnovelas, a channel that airs the highest regarded spanish novelas, and Uvideos, a bilingual channel, have all led to a seriously robust array of content. ABC News and Univision News have announced a multiplatform project entitled “Fusion” to empower and inform the Spanish Speaking demographic in America.

Financials

http://corporate.univision.com/corporate/investor-relations/financial-information/#axzz2Pt4vaJ43

Fiscal Year Ends: December

Programming

El Gordo Y La Flaca

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WbrDqPeqVnk

This entertainment-news program means “The Fat Man and the Skinny Lady.” The show features interviews with musical artists and actors, and appears on weekdays on Univision Network.

Nuestra Belleza Latina

A reality/beauty pageant competition show, Nuestra Belleza Latina has 12 hopeful women compete for a title, earning cash prizes and cultivating an image on the Univision Network. Giselle Blondet hosts this show, and coaches the winner a year after the seasons conclusion. Casting occurs in six different cities within the United States, and Puerto Rico, and the selected contestants live together in a mansion in Miami for the length of the show.

Primer Impacto

Meaning “First Impact,” Primer Impacto is a news program that airs on Univision in the United States at 5pm weekdays. One of the longer running shows on the network, it has been running since 1992, when it was broadcast under the name “Noticias y Mas” or, “News and More.” The show has several segments, and these include the news of the United States and the world, República Deportiva (Sports Republic), movies, and weather.

Mira Quien Baila

A Spanish reality show, “Look Who’s Dancing” features a similar premise to Dancing with the Stars. In fact, the show is actually included in the franchise. Professional dancers are paired up with spanish celebrities and actors, and perform latin or ballroom dance numbers before judges to receive a score. The grand prize is a donation of $50,000 to the charity of the winner’s choice.

Sources

http://corporate.univision.com/corporate/executive-leadership/#axzz2PsjkFLcj

http://topics.wsj.com/person/F/randy-falco/505

http://investing.businessweek.com/research/stocks/private/person.asp?personId=535466&privcapId=352350&previousCapId=352350&previousTitle=Univision%20Communications%20Inc.

http://s33.photobucket.com/user/thachairman/media/0806/30M/20080630_050.jpg.html

http://www.spanishtown.ca/entertainmentstories/nuestrabellezalatina2009/photos/Greydis_Gil-4.jpg

http://www.formulatv.com/images/fgaleria/16000/16015_concursantes-de-mira-quien-baila-gala-1.jpg

Liberty Media Corporation

Posted on April 8, 2013 by McCauley Braun

By McCauley Braun

Picture courtesy of Liberty Media Corporation

Liberty Media Corporate Office and Headquarters

12300 Liberty Boulevard

Englewood, Colorado 80112

Telephone: (720) 875-5400

Company Overview

Liberty Media Corporation is a mass media and communications company that owns a wide range of companies within the entertainment business. Some of it’s subsidiaries include True Position, Inc., Atlanta National League Baseball Club, Inc., Live Nation, Barnes and Noble, and Sirius XM. Liberty Media Corporation also holds minor equity investments in Time Warner Inc . and Viacom.

Management Team

John Malone – Chairman

Picture Courtesy of Liberty Media, Inc.

Mr. John Malone has been the chairman of Liberty Media Corporation since 1990, and the chairman of Liberty Global, Inc., Liberty Media Corporation’s cable provider – which happens to be the leading international cable operator. Mr. Malone has received many awards throughout his career, including the NCTA Vanguard Award in 1983, which is considered one of the highest honors and most prestigious awards in cable television [1].

Greg Maffei – President and Chief Executive Officer

Picture Courtesy of Liberty Media, Inc.

Mr. Greg Maffei has been Chief Executive Officer since 2006. Mr. Maffei serves as the chairman for some of Liberty Media’s largest assets including Starz, Live Nation, and Sirius XM. In addition, Mr. Maffei also serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of Liberty Interactive. Under Mr. Maffei’s delegation, Liberty Media Corporation has exceeded some of the major competing media companies in the industry [1].

Richard N. Baer – Senior Vice President and General Counsel

Picture Courtesy of University of Denver

Mr. Richard N. Baer was just recently elected Senior Vice President and General Counsel in January 2013 [1]. Mr. Baer is responsible for overseeing Liberty Media Corporation’s legal, regulatory, and compliance matters [2].

Mr. David J. A. Flowers – Senior Vice President and Managing Director or Alternative Investments

Picture Courtesy of Liberty Interactive, Inc.

Mr. David J. A. Flowers has served as senior vice president and managing director of alternative investments since November 2011 [1].

Albert E. Rosenthaler – Senior Vice President (Not Pictured) Mr. Albert E. Rosenthaler has served as senior vice president of Liberty Media Corporation since May 2007. Mr. Rosenthaler is responsible for overseeing the company’s corporate tax functions [1].

Christopher W. Shean – Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Not Pictured) Mr. Christopher W. Shean has served as senior vice president and chief financial officer since January 2011. As senior vice president and chief financial officer, he oversees all accounting and treasury functions at Liberty Media Corporation [1].

A Brief History

Liberty Media’s beginning was it’s merging with Tele-Communications (TCI) in the late-90s [3]. In 1998, Tele-Communications merged with AT&T, which consequently made Liberty Media Interactive, a media conglomerate branch of Liberty Media Corporation that creates trading stock, a tracking stock of AT&T in the New York Stock Exchange. However, in 2001, Liberty Interactive split from AT&T and began trading stock under it’s own name. In 2003, Liberty Interactive merged with Ascent Media Group and Liberty Satellite and Technology, Inc. It wasn’t until 2011 that Liberty Interactive separated from Liberty Media Corporation which held all of the business, assets, and liabilities previously attributed to Liberty Interactive [4].

Quarterly Report – Year End 2012 Financial Report

On January 11, Liberty Media Corporation completed it’s official separation from Starz, and Liberty Media Corporation received $1.2 billion in compensation. In addition, the FCC approved Liberty Media Corporation’s complete control over Sirius XM. Consequently, Liberty Media Corporation purchased 50 million more shares in Sirius XM which made Liberty Media Corporation 50% owner, and therefore resulted in consolidation. Liberty Media Corporation also purchased more shares in Live Nation which increased Liberty Media Corporation’s ownership by 27%.

Overall, Liberty Media’s revenue decreased 52% to $426 million in the fourth quarter, and decreased annually 32% to $2 billion. Additionally, operating income before depreciation and amortization decreased 76% to $77 million for the quarter, and decreased 58% to $450 million a year. Lastly, operating income decreased 91% to $25 million for the quarter, and 66% to $326 million annually. According to Liberty Media Corporation, the loss of revenue can be attributed to deferred revenue costs of one of their assets, True Position, Inc., the prior year [5].

Liberty Media Corporation’s Assets Today

Liberty Media Corporation holds a myriad of assets both directly and indirectly through joint ventures, partnerships, common stock investments, and assets convertible into common stock.

Associated Partners, L.P (37%): An investment and operating investment agency that helps customers receive long-term, risk balanced tax refunds.

Atlanta National League Baseball Club, Inc. (100%): Owner of the Atlanta Braves and their assets which include some minor league baseball clubs.

Barnes & Noble, Inc. (17%): The world’s largest bookstore operating in 50 states as well as online. Barnes & Noble, Inc. is also a Fortune 500 company.

CenturyLink, Inc. (<1%): Provider of broadband, voice, and video services. CenturyLink, Inc. operates in 37 states.

Crown Media Holdings, Inc. (3%): United States cable owner and provider.

Ideiasnet (5%): Technology, media, and telecommunications developer and provider. Idaiasnet acquires stakes in companies’ projects and invests in those projects.

Kroenke Arena Company, LLC (7%): Owner of The Pepsi Center, a sports facility in Denver, Colorado.

Leisure Arts, Inc. (100%): Owner of publisher of crafts, decorating, lifestyle, and other home improvement “how-to” books.

Liberty Associated Partners, L.P. (29%): Investment firm specializing in private equity investments.

Live Nation Entertainment, Inc. (27%): Largest live entertainment company in the world that specializes in sponsorship, ticketing solutions, artist management, eCommerce, and concert promotion and venue operations.

MacNeil/Lehrer Productions (67%): Producer of PBS News HourI and other educational documentaries.

Mobile Streams Plc (16%): Global mobile content retailer. Mobile Stream PIc sells music, polyphonic ringtones, videos, and graphics.

Sirius XM Radio Inc. (50%): American satellite radio provider. Sirius XM Radio, Inc. provides all content from talk to sports, to entertainment, to Top-40 hits, all commercial-free.

Sprint Nextel Corporation (1%): Provides a range of wireless and wireline communications products.

Time Warner Cable Inc. (1%): One of the largest cable providers in the world. Time Warner Cable offers video, high-speed data, and voice services over broadband cable systems.

Time Warner Inc. (1%): Media and entertainment company that provides film entertainment, television networks, cable systems, interactive services, and music.

TruePosition, Inc. (100%): Owner of company providing location-based solutions for national security and public safety.

Viacom Inc. (1%): Global media company whose assets include companies such as MTV, Paramount Pictures, CMT: Country Music Network, TV Land, and Comedy Central.

All information on assets source [6].

Sources

[1] http://ir.libertymedia.com/management.cfm

[2] http://iaals.du.edu/about-the-institute/board-of-advisors/richard-n-baer/

[3] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liberty_Media

[4] http://www.libertymedia.com/company-history.aspx

[5] http://ir.libertymedia.com/releasedetail.cfm?ReleaseID=743807

[6] http://www.libertymedia.com/asset-list.aspx

Discovery Communications

Posted on April 8, 2013 by Whembley Sewell

by Whembley Sewell

Logo for Discovery Communications [1]

CONTACT:

One Discovery Place

Silver Spring, MD 20910

http://corporate.discovery.com/

COMPANY OVERVIEW & INFLUENCERS:

President and CEO David Zaslav [14]

Discovery Communications is the leading creator of non-fiction media content in the world.[2] Since its founding in 2005, Discovery’s influence has grown to span over 200 countries across multiple different media platforms.[3] Under the leadership of CEO and President David Zaslav, the company has been experiencing many successes, in the realms of both finance and popularity. The company’s stock has increased 51.1% since the previous year,[13] viewership for their various channels have been at all-time highs with an estimated 1.7 billion subscribers.[15] New ventures are also beginning to break even and gain a strong foothold within the world of cable television.

HOLDINGS & MAJOR SUCCESSES:

From websites, to various cable channels, to magazines, Discovery Communications does it all. Their dedication to providing both entertaining, yet educational and informative content, factor into their overall success with their audiences. They produce material on each of their sites and channels that have worked to generate a large following and strong ratings. Each one of Discovery Communications’ holdings has a loyal group of viewers that are drawn in day and day out by the unique content that Discovery creates.

Logo for Discovery Channel [12]

One of their most notable holdings includes the channel bearing their name, The Discovery Channel. Since its founding in 1985, it has served the purpose of exposing viewers to the inner workings and complexities of the world, be it subjects including technology, history, or science. The Discovery Channel has stationed itself as “the number one media and television brand in overall quality”, providing its audiences with content featuring top of the line cinematography. Some of the programs that are popular now include Deadliest Catch and MythBusters.

A poster for TLC’s hit show “Toddlers & Tiaras” [10]

The Learning Channel, or TLC also stands out amongst Discovery Communications as a heavy-hitter in the world of cable programming. In 1991, when Discovery acquired TLC for $31.5 Million, they used the opportunity to launch more reality programming. Early programs like “Trauma in the E.R” paved the way for other successful reality shows like “Trading Spaces” and “What Not to Wear”. Now, TLC is churning out multiple hit shows like “Jon & Kate, Plus 8”, “Toddlers & Tiaras”, “DC Cupcakes,” “Cake Boss”, and the craze that is “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo”.[9] Though shows like “Toddlers & Tiaras” and “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo” draw in some negative criticism from viewers, many of these non-fiction series and their respective casts have become “worldwide phenomena” that continuously draw ever broadening audiences in to the programming that Discovery Communications has to offer.

CURRENT VENTURES:

Logo for Revision3 [16]

In 2012, as an attempt to cater to the “internet generation”, Discovery Communications acquired Revision3. All of its content exists on Revision3.com, but it can also be viewed on a television. Their also features programming features content that can be accessed on various different mobile devices, and can be found across the internet on sites like YouTube, Dailymotion, and Metacafe. It is estimated that Revision3 rakes in about 23 million viewers, all looking to enjoy the network’s shows about technology, modern culture, and music amongst many other things.[7] Though the site and its extensions rake in an estimated 80 million views monthly, efforts are being made to improve these numbers. In order to increase the popularity amongst their target demographic, Revision3 recently launched an XBOX360 app for easy access. This will allow them to reach over 70 million people,[11] and aligns them with other over the top video services such as Netflix, Hulu, and HBOGO.

Release poster for 3Net [20]

3Net is a revolutionary concept created by world class teams at Discovery and leading studios Sony, and IMAX.[18] The entire channel serves the purpose of creating top of the line, three-dimensional content. 3Net, released in early 2011 and fully launched in late 2012, is now functioning as the first and the only 24/7 3D network.[17] Its unique position as the first channel of its kind allows 3Net to have established one of the “most extensive” libraries of 3D content in the entire world.[19] It has something for everyone, offering a wide range of programming in every genre, be it documentary, action, lifestyle, cuisine, kids and family, or travel.[17] Even though it in its infancy, this network has been well received and has acquired a base of approximately 40 million viewers already. Their distribution affiliates have grown to include companies like DIRECTV, Comcast, and Netflix.[21] In order to provide their increasing influence and generate even more widespread appeal, 3Net has been looking to create the highest quality content. In the works is the development of 4K and UltraHD programming that will provide 3Net’s audience with best grade of entertainment possible.[21]

Promotional poster for the release of Oprah Winfrey’s network, OWN [6]

One of Discovery’s most recent and notable ventures is that of OWN, or Oprah Winfrey Network. OWN, a network with a very female-centric focus, has allowed Discovery Communications to market on Oprah Winfrey’s massive audience and has used Winfrey’s widespread appeal to launch extensions of the world reknown Oprah Winfrey show. Shows such as “Oprah’s Next Chapter”, “Oprah’s Lifeclass”, and “Oprah’s Masterclass” all utilized Winfrey’s fame to springboard her entire network. [4] Unfortunately, OWN was off to a rocky start and its potential for success was questioned early on. After starting with losses of $330 Million and upwards, rumors flew that the network would be quickly axed.[5] Fortunately, Winfrey has recently partnered with other heavy-hitters like Tyler Perry to produce new and diverse releases to draw in bigger audiences. [4] New shows debuting in May, like Perry’s “The Haves and the Have Nots” and “Love They Neighbor”, are OWN’s first ventures into scripted series, which hopefully will help them to bring in more viewers and compete with other networks with largely female audiences like Bravo and Lifetime.[8]

WORKS CITED:

[1] http://media.corporate.discovery.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DISC-COMM-pos-4c.png

[2] http://corporate.discovery.com/our-company/overview/

[3] http://www.reuters.com/finance/stocks/companyProfile?symbol=DISCA.O

[4] http://www.oprah.com/own

[5] http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2140773/Oprahs-OWN-network-Losses-approach-330m-amid-predictions-axed-year.html

[6] http://www.mediabistro.com/prnewser/files/2011/01/OWN.jpg

[7] http://corporate.discovery.com/brands/revision3/

[8] http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887324391104578225750715281798.html

[9] http://www.businessinsider.com/history-of-tlc-from-learning-channel-to-honey-boo-boo-2012-11?op=1

[10] http://www.canadianfreestuff.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Toddlers-300×225.gif

[11] http://www.reelseo.com/revision3-xbox-360-perfect-match/

[12] http://www.vivatv.ro/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/discovery-channel-logo.jpg

[13] http://www.deadline.com/2013/04/discovery-david-zaslav-2012-compensation-salary/

[14] http://www2.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Summer+TCA+Tour+Day+3+Di10W00Q6aql.jpg

[15] http://www.reuters.com/finance/stocks/companyProfile?symbol=DISCA.O

[16] http://media.corporate.discovery.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/revision3-logo.jpeg

[17] http://press.discovery.com/us/3n/info/

[18] http://corporate.discovery.com/brands/us/3d-network/

[19] http://www.3net.com/about

[20] http://www.adweek.com/files/cable.3NET_SONY.ad.jpg

[21] http://corporate.discovery.com/discovery-news/3net-marks-second-anniversary-dramatic-growth-cons/

Disney/ABC Television

Posted on April 8, 2013 by Richard Calabro

by Richie Calabro

Courtesy: Disney/ABC

Disney/ABC Television Group

500 South Buena Visita Street

Burbank, California 91521

Anne Sweeney – President
Courtesy: Disney/ABC

If you’re a TV watcher, a fan of sports, entertainment or movies, it is highly likely that at one point you have stumbled upon content that has been produced by Disney/ABC. The Disney/ABC Television group operates all kinds of entertainment platforms such as ESPN, ABC News, Lifetime, The History Channel and Disney’s wide network of films just to name a few. This vast encompassing company employees nearly 150,000 in the United States and around the world, can be seen in 97 million homes and has yearly revenue of in the tens of billions.[1]

Programming

2013 has been a banner year so far for the ABC/Television group. There has been a lot of exciting changes going on within the company in terms of programming, digital innovation and strategic partnership. One of those partnerships, a crossover plan between Marvel Comics and Disney/ABC, looks to be a revolutionary experiment for the TV industry. [2]

Courtesy: Hollywood Reporter

Under the proposed plan announced at the end of March, a wide range of the network’s scheduled television programming would be affected by bringing them into the Marvel world through a series of crossover events with the upcoming Avengers related show S.H.I.E.L.D.

“With each major story line other stories in ongoing books are brought in, featuring characters that might not otherwise be seen in the main event,” said Joss Whedon, director of the movie The Avengers. [3] Other shows that are possibly in the mix are Once Upon A Time, Scandal, Red Widow and Rookie Blue. The plan is sure to be an interesting event to watch and if successful, will look to be duplicated by other networks.

Courtesy: Politico

Disney/ABC and Univision

Strategic partnership has been a theme so far this spring for Disney/ABC. In early February, ABC and Univision announced a fresh and exciting news and lifestyle network for U.S. Hispanics. The new network, called Fusion, is set to launch in the fall of 2013. [4] The new network will bring together the powerful journalistic and reporting assets of ABC News and Univision, creating a unified place for U.S. Hispanics to go for news surrounding their world and culture. “Our collaboration will bring unmatched reporting capabilities and understanding of issues and entertainment that resonate with the Hispanic community,”says Anne Sweeney, President of Disney/ABC. [5]

Courtesy: Mediabistro

Fusion will be able to reach millions of Hispanic and American viewers, already having 5 of the nations largest cable distributors on board to broadcast the content. The network will focus mainly on issues relevant to U.S. Hispanics like the economy, health, entertainment and immigration. [6]

Good Morning America At The Top

For years NBC’s “The Today Show” had been at the top of the morning show network ratings. However, this past February, ABC’s Good Morning America won the first quarter ratings for the first time since the mid-1990s. [7] GMA’s rise in popularity is due in part to the heart wrenching story of anchor Robin Roberts’ battle with a rare blood disease and the public relations nightmare that was Matt Lauer and Anne Curry.

Courtesy: TV Listings

GMA topped the morning show wars for the first quarter of 2013 in total viewers. They won the critical 25-54 demographic over the Today show, averaging an audience of 5.389 million. It was the first time the top-rated morning show has won the quarter in total viewers since 1994. GMA also won for the second quarter in a row in the 25-54 demo, first time since the second and third quarters of 1994. [8] It is thought that Robin Roberts’ illness has helped GMA jump NBC. The disease, myelodysplastic syndrome, causes the body to produce fewer red blood cells and forced Roberts to have a bone marrow transplant that came from her sister. Below is a clip of Robin Roberts’ journey.

Digital Innovation

Along with the many programming feats Disney/ABC has achieved this spring, there has been a new wave of digital innovation that has swept across the company. Disney/ABC announced in the middle of March plans to develop a live streaming TV app that can be groundbreaking in an industry where smart phones and tablets are becoming more prevalent and a danger to TV audiences. [9] The company has plans to continue work on a new live streaming television app for its broadcast network ABC that will make the platform’s content available to cable and satellite subscribers.

Courtesy: Disney/ABC

Although ABC is a free over-the-air public network, the streaming capabilities would only be available to cable and satellite subscribers so that Disney would not upset providers. [10]

Disney/ABC is no stranger to making groundbreaking digital application moves. The launch of the “Watch ESPN” app has been a phenomenal success for the company. It has expanded viewership on all platforms making content more accessible on the go.

This comes at a monumental time for digital innovation at Disney/ABC. Recently it was announced that the Disney/ABC app released several years ago ahead of the first iPad, has reached 10 million downloads. [11] With the reaching of this mark, the app has become one of the most successfully downloaded applications of all time.

ABC.com Comedy Shorts

With the success of recent comedy shorts in the past and the desire to boost exposure online, Disney/ABC has recently announced plans to add more digital elements to its network. [12]

Courtesy: Disney/ABC

In an effort to expand offerings online, the network will debut pop culture and show related videos under its ABC.comedy platform. The first will be Taye Diggs Destroys Hip Hop and Dancing With the Stars Judge Bruno Tonioli’s Writer’s Room.

“Humor is a hallmark of the ABC Network, so it makes sense that we infuse our digital video content with as much comedy as possible,” said Chris Thomes, Vice President of Disney/ABC Television Group’s Digital Media Studio. [13]

The ABC comedy series began in fall 2011 with video recaps for the network’s Wednesday comedies and grew the following year to include comedic rundowns of the network’s dramas. The success of Modern Family’s Halloween short has inspired the push for new content on this platform.

Sources

[1] LA Times: Disney/ABC Television Group Workforce

[2] Geek Exchange: Disney/ABC Crossover Plan

[3] Geek Exchange: Disney/ABC Crossover Plan

[4] ABC News: Network Gets New Name

[5] Mediabistro: Univision Channel to be Called Fusion

[6] ABC News: Network Gets New Name

[7] Deadline: GMA Wins First Quarter

[8] ABC News: GMA Beats NBC’s Win Streak

[9] Apple Insider: Disney’s ABC Working on New Live App

[10] Apple Insider: Disney’s ABC Working on New Live App

[11] Media Daily News: App Reaches 10 Million Downloads

[12] Hollywood Reporter: ABC to Debut Comedy Shorts

[13] TV Broadway: Taye Diggs Partners For New Comedy Shorts

Comcast/NBCUniversal

Posted on April 8, 2013 by Zachary Eisen

by Zach Eisen

NBCUniversal Media, LLC

30 Rockefeller Plaza

New York, NY 10112

212.664.4444

www.nbcuni.com

About the Company [1]:

A snapshot of what NBCU owns

NBCUniversal is a major media company owned by the Comcast Corporation. With headquarters in world-famous Rockefeller Center, NBCU owns and operates a variety of media outlets across many different platforms, including broadcast and cable television, film, and digital media. NBCU’s content is distributed around the world.

Television

NBCUniversal has a variety of holdings in both broadcast and cable television. It owns the NBC broadcast network and the Telemundo network, airing popular programs such as NBC Nightly News, Today, Saturday Night Live, and The Office. NBC also owns and operates TV stations in some of the largest markets in the country, including New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. NBCU’s cable holdings include the NBC Sports Network, MSNBC, CNBC, USA, E!, Bravo, and The Weather Channel. NBC also owns the broadcast rights to the Olympics, NHL and NFL games, and many other major sporting events.

Film

NBCU owns Universal Pictures, one of the Big Six major film companies. Universal is famous for movies such as E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial, Jurassic Park, Jaws, and the Bourne series [2]. The company also owns Focus Features, which is Universal’s art, foreign, and independent film division. NBCU also owns Universal Parks and Resorts, with full ownership of the parks in Los Angeles and Orlando and part ownership of locations in Japan and Singapore.

Online

NBCUniversal owns multiple digital and online companies, including NBC.com, Fandango, and iVillage. It also is part of a joint-venture in Hulu, the online streaming service.

Key Executives [3]:

Stephen B. Burke – CEO, NBCUniversal

Stephen B. Burke

Stuart J. Epstein – Executive VP and CFO, NBCUniversal

Stuart J. Epstein

Robert Greenblatt – Chairman, NBC Entertainment

Robert Greenblatt

Brian Roberts – Chairman and CEO, Comcast Corporation

Brian Roberts

For more information on NBCUniversal’s executives, click here.

Competitors:

In the broadcast television market, NBC’s main competitors are the other Big Four major networks, which are ABC, CBS, and FOX. However, cable viewership is quickly growing, which means NBC also competes with basically every television station for viewers and advertising dollars.

Ownership History [4]:

NBCUniversal was officially founded in 2004, when NBC and Universal merged into one company. At the time of the merger, Vivendi and GE shared ownership of the company. In 2009, GE and Comcast announced plans to create a joint venture out of NBCUniversal’s companies and Comcast’s cable holdings. The plan was finalized in early 2011, with Comcast taking a majority stake in the company. In early 2013, Comcast announced it would buy GE’s 49% minority stake, a $16.7 billion deal which allowed them to assume 100% ownership of NBCUniversal [5].

Financial Information [6]:

2012 was a successful year for NBCUniversal across the board. The company earned $23.8 billion in total revenue, an increase of nearly $2.7 billion, or 12.7%, from 2011. NBCU’s revenue in all four of its divisions (Broadcast Networks, Cable Networks, Film, and Theme Parks) saw increases in 2012.

The largest gains were made in the Broadcast Television division, which jumped 27.4% from the previous year. The broadcast numbers were aided by the network’s airing of the 2012 London Olympics and Super Bowl XLVI. Excluding these events from the numbers, the Broadcast division’s revenue still saw a 4.8% increase, driven by political advertisements on its Owned & Operated stations. The increased revenue from the political ads also helps explain the Broadcast division’s 7.9% increase in the fourth quarter of 2012 from the same period in 2011.

NBCU’s Cable Networks division accounted for the company’s smallest increases in 2012 (3.3%), but generated the most revenue for the company ($8.8 billion). The NHL lockout hurt ratings for the NBC Sports Network during that time, which boasts NHL coverage as its key selling point. However, ratings for that network reached all-time highs once hockey returned [15]. Advertising revenue decreased by 1.5% in the fourth quarter for NBC’s cable networks.

News:

• GOODBYE, GE

On March 19, Comcast completed its purchase of GE’s 49% stake in NBCUniversal [7]. The $16.7 billion deal also included the sale of GE’s headquarters at the famous 30 Rockefeller Plaza building to Comcast. The deal brings to an end GE’s involvement with NBC, which began in 1919 when the company helped found the Radio Corporation of America, which started the National Broadcasting Company in 1926 [8]. Since then, NBC has been owned by GE, RCA, Westinghouse, Vivendi and now Comcast. Watch Wall Street Journal Live’s analysis of the deal below (video courtesy of YouTube).

• ADIÓS, NBC

For the first time ever, NBC fell out of the top four networks during a sweeps period conducted by Nielsen [9]. Univision, the Spanish language network, moved ahead of NBC as the fourth most watched network among adults ages 18-49 during the month of February. NBC struggled during that month, as its new show Do No Harm was cancelled after just two episodes, and the new comedy 1600 Penn struggled as well [10].

• THE TONIGHT SHOW WITH…

Jimmy Fallon (right) will take over for Jay Leno (left) as host of “The Tonight Show”.

…Jimmy Fallon? NBC announced in April that the Late Night host will replace Jay Leno on The Tonight Show starting in 2014 [11]. Leno, who has hosted The Tonight Show for 22 years, took over for Johnny Carson in 1992. Leno was replaced by Conan O’Brien in 2009 [12], but returned only seven months later [13] after a feud with the network over a time for his new show. It is being rumored that Saturday Night Live head writer and “Weekend Update” host Seth Meyers will replace Fallon as host of Late Night.

• USA! USA!

NBCU’s USA Network earned the best primetime ratings for a cable network in the first quarter of 2013, its eighth year in a row earning that honor [14]. Popular programs such as Suits and WWE Raw helped the network win the quarter, defeating rivals with popular programs such as AMC and its hit The Walking Dead. USA averaged over 3 million viewers during the primetime slots. Another NBCU network, Bravo, also improved, making the top ten networks among viewers ages 25-54.

• NHL COVERAGE SCORES FOR NBC SPORTS NETWORK

The NBC Sports Network is posting record numbers this year for its NHL coverage [15]. The network, formerly Comcast’s Versus, is averaging 448,000 viewers per game, up from its previous high of 348,000 viewers. The numbers may have gotten a boost because of the lockout that cut the season down to 48 games. National games airing on NBC’s broadcast network are also doing better, averaging 1.7 million viewers,just ahead of its previous tally of 1.6 million.

• ‘THE VOICE’ NEARS IN ON ‘IDOL’

The popular singing competition show, The Voice, has returned to NBC’s lineup, and has outperformed FOX’s American Idol so far [16]. Although Idol‘s first two episodes earned stronger ratings than The Voice‘s, NBC’s program is gaining momentum, while FOX’s is seeing its lowest ratings in the 12-year history of the show. The show’s performance in the ratings for the remainder of the season may tell whether it will replace Idol as America’s favorite singing show.

• USING THE SECOND SCREEN

In March, USA allowed fans of its series Psych to choose the ending of the show’s 100th episode [17]. The vote was part of a new online and mobile feature called USA Sync, an attempt by the network to use new media to add interactivity to its programming [18]. The program allows fans to post about the shows, connect with each other, and play interactive games. On the mobile platform, the service is available as an app that gives users access to more content through other applications.

• A DELICIOUS PREMIERE

The much anticipated new series Hannibal premiered on NBC on April 4. The series, about fictional evil genius Hannibal Lecter, serves as a prequel to the 1991 classic film The Silence of the Lambs. The show earned praise from Internet critics, with some calling it “riveting” [19], and others saying it was “beautifully shot and…surprisingly thoughtful” [20]. Watch a promo for Hannibal below (video courtesy of YouTube).

• FOR E!, OLDE IS NEW

Jeff Olde

In March, E! named former VH1 executive Jeff Olde head of its programming [21]. Olde will be in charge of the development of E!’s shows, including Keeping Up With The Kardashians, The Soup, and Chelsea Lately. Olde will begin his new job this summer.

Sources:

[1]: http://www.nbcuni.com/corporate/about-us/

[2]: http://www.boxofficemojo.com/studio/chart/?studio=universal.htm

[3]: http://www.nbcuni.com/corporate/management/

[4]:http://www.nbcuni.com/corporate/about-us/history/

[5]: http://mediadecoder.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/02/12/comcast-buying-g-e-s-stake-in-nbcuniversal-for-16-7-billion/

[6]: http://www.marketwatch.com/story/comcast-reports-4th-quarter-and-year-end-2012-results-2013-02-12

[7]: http://www.deadline.com/2013/03/comcast-completes-acquisition-nbcuniversal/

[8]: http://www.gereports.com/its-a-wrap/

[9]: http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2013/02/27/univision-sets-milestone-as-no-4-network-in-february-sweeps-ahead-of-nbc-in-key-demos/171192/

[10]: http://www.deadline.com/2013/02/nbc-sweeps-ratings-lastloses-to-univision/

[11]: http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2013/04/02/source-jimmy-fallon-to-take-reins-of-tonight-show-from-jay-leno.html

[12]: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/30/arts/television/30leno.html?em&_r=0

[13]: http://www.accesshollywood.com/jay-leno-heading-back-to-late-night-conan-obrien-weighing-options_article_27490

[14]: http://variety.com/2013/tv/news/usa-suits-ratings-amc-walking-dead-1200332772/

[15]: http://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/Daily/Issues/2013/03/19/Media/NHL-Ratings.aspx

[16]: http://mediadecoder.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/03/29/in-ratings-race-the-voice-gains-on-idol/

[17]: http://www.nbcbayarea.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/NATL-Viewers-to-Choose-Psych-Ending–200075821.html

[18]: http://www.thefutoncritic.com/news/2013/04/01/usa-network-launches-the-next-phase-of-usa-sync-first-live-second-screen-content-syndication-platform-625513/20130401usa01/

[19]: http://www.hitfix.com/whats-alan-watching/review-nbcs-hannibal-a-riveting-silence-of-the-lambs-prequel

[20]: http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/review/hannibal-tv-review-433109

[21]: http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/jeff-olde-named-es-head-431347

Cox Media Group/Cox Enterprises

Posted on April 7, 2013 by Autumn Boatner

Autumn Boatner

http://www.coxmediagroup.com/

Headquarters Contact Info: 6205 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd.
Atlanta, GA 30328
(678) 645-0000

Overview [1]

Cox Media Group is an integrated broadcasting, publication, direct marketing, and digital media company which is a part of Cox Enterprises that includes Cox Target Media. Cox Target Media operates two leading American companies which are Valpak (direct marketing), and savings.com (online savings). The company’s operations currently include 19 broadcast TV stations, one local cable station, 87 radio stations, eight daily newspapers and more than 100 digital services. CMG’s reach includes more than 30 media markets and 52 million Americans weekly, which includes 18 million radio listeners, 32 million TV viewers, and more than four million print and online newspaper readers.

2012 Key Metrics [2]

Revenue: 1.9 Billion
TV Stations: 19
Local Cable Channels: 1
Television Markets: 11
TV Viewer Reach: 30+ million
AM Radio Stations: 15
FM Radio Stations: 72
Radio Markets: 20
Combined Weekly Radio Listeners: 18 million

The Business of Communications

A duopoly is a specific type of oligopoly where only two producers exist in one market. In context, Cox Media Group is a duopoly due to the fact that it is one of two firms with dominant control over the communications market. Cox Media Group is in the process of changing its structure as part of a new business strategy to sell off their stations in smaller markets. The broadcast realignment was announced in July 2012 by CMG President Doug Franklin following the purchase of duopolies in larger markets — Jacksonville, Fla., and Tulsa, Okla. — from Newport Television . [3] CMG’s strategy is focused on larger markets, cross-media collaboration, and heightened reach in fewer markets. “This simplified structure will enable CMG to capitalize on continued growth and synergies, while retaining its size financially,” said Franklin.

Simultaneously, CMG is realigning leadership structure to fit the new broadcast portfolio. Leadership changes in 2013 are as followed:

January 11th – Romeo Solomon Named General Sales Manager at KICU-TV
January 14th – Cox Media Group Appoints Matt Dalton as National Sales Manager of Long Island’s 106.1 WBLI-FM and 102.3 WBAB-FM
January 30th – CMG Orlando Tammie McGrath promoted to Director of Sales for six stations [4]
February 7th – CMG Tulsa Radio Promotes Matt Ledbetter to Director of Sales for Its Five Station Cluster [5]
March 1st – Tom Calococci Joins CMG Miami as New Program Director East Coast
March 8th – Cox Media Group Atlanta Names Adam Wolfson New General Sales Manager
March 11th – Greg Bilte named general manager, Suzanne Nadell named News Director for CMG Tulsa
March 13th – CMG Jacksonville Named Eric Lauer GSM, CMG San Antonio Names Jeff Garrison as New Program Director of Y100 [6]
April 1st – Lee Rothenthal named News Director at KUTV in Indianapolis [7]

Consolidation

On February 12th, Cox Media Group announced the sale of radio stations in six markets to SummitMedia – a Birmingham, Ala.-based ownership group which includes David DuBose, Cox Media’s Birmingham Vice President and market manager.

Source: http://www.freepress.net/

Cox Media Group also sold three Southern Connecticut radio stations and contract rights for an additional station to Connoisseur Media based in Conn. Four stations were sold to Connoisseur and 21 stations were sold to Summit. In southern Connecticut, Cox sold WPLR-FM, WEZN-FM, WFOX-FM, and contract rights for WYBC-FM to Connoisseur Media for $40 million. SummitMedia paid $66.25 million for a number of stations in Birmingham, AL, Greenville, SC, Louisville, KY, Richmond, VA, and Hawaii, according to documents filed with the FCC. [8] As part of the broadcast realignment, Cox recently added four TV stations to its broadcast portfolio: WAWS-TV (fox) and WTEV-TV (CBS) in Jacksonville, Fl, and KOKI-TV (fox) and KMYT-TV (MyNetwork) in Tulsa, OK. [9]

Source: www.sbgi.net/

Sinclair Broadcast Group had the opposite strategy, and acquired four COX small television stations for $99 million on February 25^th, 2013; the purchase was part of a string of over thirty acquisitions over the past year and a half. [10] They also purchased 18 stations from Barrington Broadcasting Group for 370 million. [11] Sinclair Broadcast Group Inc. is a Hunt Valley, Maryland-based diversified television broadcast company. The four stations Sinclair purchased from Cox were:

KFOX (Fox) El Paso, Texas DMA 91

WJAC (NBC) Johnstown-Altoona, Pa. DMA 102

KRXI (Fox) Reno, Nev. DMA 108

WTOV (NBC) Wheeling, W.Va.-Steubenville, Ohio DMA 158

FCC rules prohibit ownership of two stations in markets as small as Reno, Nev., therefore Sinclair plans on getting past this loophole by operating MNT affiliate KAME Reno under contract with a third-party licensee, Deerfield Media. [12] Sinclair said it expects to finance the deal through a bank loan, the deal will close in the second quarter and is pending FCC approval. Sinclair is arguably taking this strategy because there are less medium-sized stations for sale, but small stations provide large profits through local advertisements. [13] “Over the past 18 months, we have led the industry’s consolidation efforts in the mid-sized markets, purchasing 30 TV stations and creating over $400 million of equity value,” said David Smith, Sinclair President and CEO.

On March 4th, 2013, Broadcast stock analyst Marci Ryvicker and Wells Fargo Securities approved the Sinclair buy. “We like SBGI’s scale, leverage and opportunistic approach to M&A and anticipate there is more to come,” stated in an investor’s note. According to the note, Sinclair is paying a reasonable 4.6 times cash flow for Cox and 5.2 times for Barrington while maintaining a healthy debt profile of 5.1 times projected for the end of 2013. [14]

Other news concerning COX

Source: RadioInk.com

On January 18th, Cox Media Group made radio history with Tampa 97X by giving local listeners total control of the music by utilizing social media. Listeners chose songs they wanted to hear by selecting from over 1,800 songs listed on 97X app and website. The app gave listeners the ability to interact with an ‘Open Mic’ feature which enabled them to record and upload themselves introducing songs. [15]

On March 6th, Cox Media Group was accepted into the Google AdWords (TM) Premier SMB partner program. This partnership allows CMG to be a leading provider in digital marketing solutions for local and regional advertising clients. Premiere SMB partners meet Google’s highest criteria for qualification, transparency and customer service, which include completing extensive Google product and account management training to provide businesses with the most effective AdWords advertising solutions. In addition to in-depth AdWords knowledge, PSP partners provide campaign management, detailed reporting, one-on-one customer support, and broad marketing guidance to help advertisers make the most of their advertising campaigns. [16]

Sources

1 & 2. http://www.coxmediagroup.com/about/
3. http://articles.baltimoresun.com/2013-02-26/business/bs-bz-sinclair-acquires-cox-stations-20130226_1_sinclair-plans-station-owner-stations-in-mid-sized-market
4. http://www.coxmediagroup.com/news/2013/jan/
5. http://www.coxmediagroup.com/news/2013/feb/
6. http://www.coxmediagroup.com/news/2013/apr/
7. http://www.coxmediagroup.com/news/2013/may/
8 & 9. http://www.mediapost.com/publications/article/193537/cox-sells-25-radio-stations.html#axzz2PoUSjKxl
10. http://articles.baltimoresun.com/2013-02-26/business/bs-bz-sinclair-acquires-cox-stations-20130226_1_sinclair-plans-station-owner-stations-in-mid-sized-markets
11. http://www.bizjournals.com/baltimore/print-edition/2013/03/08/sinclair-broadcast-group-tuning-into.html?page=all
12.http://www.tvnewscheck.com/article/65729/sinclair-buys-four-cox-tvs-for-nearly-100m
13. http://www.bizjournals.com/baltimore/print-edition/2013/03/08/sinclair-broadcast-group-tuning-into.html?page=all
14. http://www.tvnewscheck.com/article/65893/ryvicker-gives-thumbs-up-to-sinclair-buys
15. http://www.coxmediagroup.com/news/cmg-press-releases/tampa-bays-97x-does-it-again/nTzz2/
16. http://www.marketwatch.com/story/cox-media-group-selected-as-google-adwords-premier-smb-partner-2013-03-06

AMC Networks

Posted on April 7, 2013 by Elan Schoonmaker

by Elan Schoonmaker

11 Penn Plaza
New York, NY 10001
Main Phone #: (212) 324-8500

Profile

AMC Networks is a company with a focus on delivering top quality entertainment to households all around the United States. Through its variety of cable channels IFC, Sundance Channel, WE tv, IFC Films and AMC, AMC Networks is able to reach out to audiences of all shapes and forms. These channels air anything from wedding shows (WE tv), to zombie thrillers (AMC). This network knows what its audience likes to watch. Reaching 95 million households, its no wonder why AMC Networks is home to multiple award winning television shows. AMC Networks is the only network to have won the Emmy for Outstanding Drama series for four consecutive years. [1] Adding to its list of awards, the network also roped in a three straight Golden Globe Awards for Best Television Series Drama.

AMC Network Channel Thumbnails

AMC: is devoted to airing past theatrical releases and original series television shows. AMC is most commonly known for its big three shows; Breaking Bad, Mad Men and The Walking Dead.

Sundance Channel: known for airing independent films, world cinema, documentaries, short films and original programming.

WE tv: is a tv channel targeted at women specifically. This channel is home to famous shows like; Bridezillas, My Fair Wedding and The Golden Girls.

IFC: is a channel that airs movies and tv shows with a certain indie aspect to them. Well known tv shows from this channel are; Maron, Out There, and Portlandia

Brief History

Once known as Rainbow Media Holding, AMC Networks got its start 32 years ago. It only became known as a private business in 2005. AMC Networks has always been somewhat successful, but never as much as it has been now.

Anti Dish Network

AMC Network made an enemy back in 2008 when it decided to sue Dish Network over a channel carriage dispute. Skipping ahead four years, in 2012 Dish decided to change its home channel without any notice. Shortly after AMC was removed entirely from Dish. Dish claimed that it didn’t want to carry AMC anymore due to the channels that came packaged with it, like WE tv and The Sundance Channel. After many years and court sessions, the only thing AMC has to show is its 2.4 billion dollars in damage [2]

Key Figures

Josh Sapan

Josh Sapan, also known as President of AMC Networks has been crucial in the networks rise to stardom [3]. Before Sapan came into play, AMC was just a cable channel that played classic movies all day. Once he came along, he helped turn AMC into a channel that would produce leading entertainment originals such as The Walking Dead. He also helped the network reach out to a wider ranged audience. With the introduction of cable channels like WE tv and Sundance Channel, Sapan helped the network gain the viewership of more women.

Ed Carroll

Ed Carrol began his role of Chief Operating Officer back in 2009. It is no mere coincidence that AMC Networks has seen its greatest increase of viewership since then. He oversaw shows like The Walking Dead, Breaking Bad, and Mad Men [4]. Near the top of his list of accomplishments is his work with The Sundance Channel. After a lot of time and hard work, he was able to expand the reach of the Sundance Channel to both Europe and Asia.

Financials

In the Fourth Quarterly report in 2012, the net Income for AMC Networks was up by 13.9%. Nationally, the network had a 15.9% increase from last year, but internationally net income dropped 8.8% [5]

Operating income for AMC Networks increased 11.1% since 2011. Just like the net income, this was due to national numbers. Nationally there was a 16.8% increase in operating income [5]. The network suffered though with an international loss of $27 million dollars.

AMC Networks Stock

In the long term stock wise, AMC Networks has been seen a sharp increase in value. Exactly one year ago from this date (April 5, 2012), the stock price was $43.53 per stock. Today they are $63.24 a share, which is a 31% increase [10]. If AMC Networks continue at this rate, there will be no limit to its success.

The national business model for the network is the reason why it is profitable today. The international model however keeps losing money. Things need to change internationally if the network plans on continuing its growth.

Recent Activity

February 26, 2013: Sundance Channel will be experiencing a lot of changes over the next few months. This channel as a whole doesn’t reach out to enough viewers. As of now, AMC is the jewel of AMC Networks. That is why starting March 4, all four seasons of Breaking Bad were scheduled to air on Sundance Channel [6]. Also starting April 22 Sundance Channel will air the pilot to its new original series Rectify. This show will follow a man who been discharged of a rape conviction after 19 years. Following its debut, Rectify will also be rerun on AMC to promote the show.

March 1, 2013: AMC Networks announces two major changes in a press release. The first announcement was that AMC will renew the contract it has with Rogers Comm. Rogers Comm. is a leading Canadian communications company. This renewal will deliver HD access to all of AMC’s TV shows [7]. It will also allow customers to access AMC original series on multiple platforms. Whether that means viewing AMC on an Xbox or an Iphone, it is entirely up to the customer.

YEAH!

March 12, 2013: AMC Announces YEAH!, a movie service like Netflix in that it provides movies to customers on a streaming platform. Unlike Netflix, YEAH! provides interactive features to pre-existing movies [8]. If someone wants to watch Pulp Fiction they can watch it with never before seen interviews. They can also get fun facts throughout the film, as well as quiz questions every now and then.

April 1, 2013

The AMC channel announces its ratings for the following night, March 31. The Walking Dead alone gained the viewership of 12.4 million people [9]. These ratings mark a new record for AMC. The Walking Dead was the most viewed show on TV that night. This came as no surprise to AMC though. Since late September, The Walking Dead remained on top in the ratings, beating shows like American Idol and even The Big Bang Theory. On top of the record ratings with 5.2 million viewers, AMC’s Talking Dead talk show reached a new record as well.

Works Cited

[1] AMC Network “About Us”

[2] AMC Versus Dish Network

[3] Josh Sapan Information

[4] Ed Carroll Information

[5] Quarterly Report

[6] Sundance Channel New Format

[7] Rogers Communications Renewal

[8] Yeah!

[9] The Walking Dead Audience

[10] AMC Networks Stock

NewsCorp/Fox

Posted on April 5, 2013 by Adam Kloos Jr

by Adam Kloos

News Corporation

Fox Broadcasting Station

[1][2]

Contact Information [3]:

1211 Avenue of the Americas

New York, NY, 10036 United States

(212)-852-7000

http://www.newscorp.com

Key Executives [6]:

Rupert Murdoch, Chairman and CEO

[7]

Rupert Murdoch is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of News Corporation. He is very active within the company and continues to expand into new media outlets.

Jose Maria Anzar, President

[9]

Jose Maria Aznar is the president of News Corporation and former Prime Minister of Spain.

HRTS Kicks Off With "A Conversation With.. Chase Carey"

Chase Carey, President and COO

[10]

Chase Carey is the President and Chief Operating Officer of News Corporation.

Natalie Bancroft, Director

[11]

Natalie Bancroft is the Director of Newscorp. She is part of the Bancroft family that used to own the Dow Jones Media [5].

Gaude Lydia Paez, Vice President of Corporate Communications

[12]

Gaude Lydia Paez is the Vice President of Corporate Communications at FOX Broadcasting Company.

Overview:

News Corporation is a corporation made up of a large number of various media businesses. News Corporation has assets in film, magazine, newspapers, direct satellite television, news, cable broadcasting, cable programming, television programming and broadcast, as well as sports teams and social media [4]. The media conglomerate was created and is currently under control of Rupert Murdoch, who according to Forbes is the 26th most powerful person in the world and the 91st richest[5]. News Corporation currently operates on 5 continents that include North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Australia [8]. Their main competitors include CBS, NBC/Comcast, and Disney. The FOX Broadcasting Company was launched in 1986 as a fourth broadcast station that has been largely successful in competing with the Big Three. It owns 27 different stations in the US and many more internationally. Throughout the early 2000s until 2012 FOX was the number one watched station by young adults, 18-49 [13].

History:

The history of News Corporation stretches back to 1952, when Rupert Murdoch inherited ‘The Adelaide News,’ a newspaper company his father owned. After returning from school to run the company, Murdoch greatly improved its profits. From there he acquired a number of other newspapers throughout Australia and New Zealand before eventually moving to the British market in the mid-60s. In 1973 he turned his attention to the US where he began buying up American newspaper publishers. In 1980 he announced the creation of News Corporation as a global holding company [4].

In 1985, News Corporation acquired 50% of TCF Holdings which was the parent company of 20th Century Fox. In 1986, 20th Century Fox launched FOX, an alternative to the already existing broadcast stations ABC, CBS, and NBC [14]. In the early 90s, FOX signed a contract with the NFL, giving them the rights to broadcast NFL games on Sundays. Today FOX continues to be the preferred station of youner adults with popular shows such as The Simpsons, American Idol, Glee, Family Guy, Bones, and The X Factor [15].

What They Are Doing Presently?

In 2011, News Corporation was caught in a huge phone-hacking scandal that involved the family of a murdered British school girl by News of the World. There were also accusations of phone-hackings of the London subway bombing victims, families of deceased British soldiers, and an FBI investigation of possible phone-hackings of 9/11 victims. As a result of this, Rupert Murdoch shut down publication of the magazine, News of the World in England and 12 people were arrested. This scandal also caused the company to withdraw a $12 billion bid for shares of British Sky Broadcasting [16]. The arrests and investigation continued into late 2012. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZIZNXZVNk74

Apart from the scandal, News Corporation announced in 2012 that they plan to split into two publicly traded holding companies. One division would take care of all film and television assets including 20th Century Fox film studio, Fox Broadcasting Company, and Fox News. The other would have control over the company’s publishing division that includes The Times of London, The Wall Street Journal, and The New York Post. Rupert Murdoch would remain chairman of both companies while Chase Carey would remain Chief Operating Officer of the entertainment and media company [17].

What Are Their Plans For The Future?:

Disney and News Corp. are currently in negotiations over the video streaming service Hulu. Jason Kilar, the current CEO of Hulu is planning to leave his postion, and the interim CEO for now is senior vice-president Andy Forssell. Once News Corp. and Disney finalize their negotiations, a permanent CEO will be named to take over Hulu. There has been recent talk of both Disney and News Corp. planning to buy out each others stake in the company. Both companies admitted that Hulu was losing money due to the high costs of liscensing television shows and computer servers [18].

Fox Broadcasting Company is looking forward to “Fox Now,” a collection of apps for mobile devices. These apps allow audiences to view their favorite FOX shows and allow viewers to be more interactive with the content. “T-Commerce” is part of the “Fox Now” app that enables viewers to shop online while watching the show New Girl. The items from the show such as clothing and other paraphenelia would be available to audiences in real time [13].

Programming:

American Idol, 2002-present

[19]

American Idol has been a long running success on the Fox network. It first aired in 2002 and had been the number one watched show for eight consecutive seasons through 2011. The show is very interactive with the audience because the millions of viewers get to decide which contestants get to move on to the next round each week, before eventually choosing the winner [20].

The SImpsons, 1989-present

[21]

The Simpsons is the longest running prime-time animated comedy series in the history of television. Created by Matt Groening in 1989, it is currently in its 24th season. The show focuses on the lives of a dysfunctional lower class family in Springfield. The show is typically family friendly [22].

Family Guy, 1999-present

[23]

Family Guy was created by Seth McFarlanein 1999. Family Guy has remained a hit on Fox since that time and gained an undeniable cult following. Also focusing on the lives of a dysfuncitonal working class family, this show contains content for more mature audiences with it’s slapstick and often raunchy humor. The show is currently in its 11th season [22].

Financials:

By the end of 2012, News Corporation had assets that equaled out to $63 billion and saw a revenue of $34 billion, the highest it had ever been. This was up from 2011 by about $500 million. The increase in revenue can be attributed to its deals with Netflix and Amazon.com for its sitcoms and films [6]. Currently a share of News Corporation is $30.68 [24]. This is improved from exactly one year ago when a share was going for $23.18. Stockholders have been pleased with the strong growth over the past few years, especially the 2011-2012 fiscal year.

Works Cited

1. http://www.logok.org

2. http://www.zenithotimedia.blogspot.com

3. http://www.hoover.com

4. http://www.corporatewatch.org

5. http://www.forbes.com

6. http://www.newscorp.com

7. http://www.guardian.co.uk

8. http://www.nndb.com

9. http://www.en.mediamass.net

10. http://www.hollywoodreporter.com

11. http://www.nymag.com