Graham Holdings Co (GHC)
SIC breadcrumb: Services > SIC Major Group 82 > SIC 8200 Services-Educational Services
SEC company page: https://www.sec.gov/edgar/browse/?CIK=104889. Latest filing source: 0001628280-26-011405.
Informational only - descriptive public-record data, not investment advice.
Business
Read GHC's verbatim Item 1 Business section from its latest 10-K: Business.
Risk Factors
Read GHC's verbatim Item 1A Risk Factors from its latest 10-K: Risk Factors.
Selected Fundamentals
| Metric | Value | Unit | FY | Filed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenue | 4,911,563,000 | USD | 2025 | 2026-02-25 |
| Net income | 292,291,000 | USD | 2025 | 2026-02-25 |
| Assets | 8,395,713,000 | USD | 2025 | 2026-02-25 |
Financials
Annual standardized facts from SEC companyfacts as of latest extracted filing date 2026-02-25. Source: https://data.sec.gov/api/xbrl/companyfacts/CIK0000104889.json. Derived margins, ratios, and free cash flow are computed from the extracted annual SEC facts.
| Metric | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenue | 2,481,890,000 | 2,591,846,000 | 2,695,966,000 | 2,932,099,000 | 2,889,121,000 | 3,185,974,000 | 3,924,493,000 | 4,414,877,000 | 4,790,904,000 | 4,911,563,000 | ||
| Net income | 168,590,000 | 302,044,000 | 271,206,000 | 327,855,000 | 300,365,000 | 352,075,000 | 67,079,000 | 205,288,000 | 724,634,000 | 292,291,000 | ||
| Operating income | 222,869,000 | 136,403,000 | 246,161,000 | 144,546,000 | 100,407,000 | 77,375,000 | 83,898,000 | 69,393,000 | 215,504,000 | 234,947,000 | ||
| Diluted EPS | 29.80 | 53.89 | 50.20 | 61.21 | 58.13 | 70.45 | 13.79 | 43.82 | 163.40 | 66.47 | ||
| Operating cash flow | 261,256,000 | 268,055,000 | 287,019,000 | 165,164,000 | 210,663,000 | 202,426,000 | 235,604,000 | 259,875,000 | 406,988,000 | 347,185,000 | ||
| Capital expenditures | 66,612,000 | 60,358,000 | 98,192,000 | 93,504,000 | 69,591,000 | 162,537,000 | 82,684,000 | 93,447,000 | 82,912,000 | 71,881,000 | ||
| Share buybacks | 108,948,000 | 50,770,000 | 118,030,000 | 2,103,000 | 161,829,000 | 55,683,000 | 71,386,000 | 193,160,000 | 114,101,000 | 3,468,000 | ||
| Assets | 4,432,670,000 | 4,937,823,000 | 4,764,041,000 | 5,931,236,000 | 6,444,119,000 | 7,425,525,000 | 6,553,377,000 | 7,187,730,000 | 7,677,205,000 | 8,395,713,000 | ||
| Liabilities | 1,979,679,000 | 2,018,071,000 | 1,842,913,000 | 2,598,785,000 | 2,665,798,000 | 2,999,545,000 | 2,778,889,000 | 3,161,677,000 | 3,346,569,000 | 3,528,562,000 | ||
| Stockholders' equity | 3,140,299,000 | 2,490,698,000 | 2,916,782,000 | 3,319,239,000 | 3,759,302,000 | 4,399,583,000 | 3,731,383,000 | 3,975,737,000 | 4,256,661,000 | 4,794,025,000 | ||
| Cash and cash equivalents | 648,885,000 | 390,014,000 | 253,256,000 | 200,165,000 | 413,991,000 | 145,886,000 | 169,319,000 | 169,897,000 | 260,852,000 | 266,988,000 | ||
| Free cash flow | 194,644,000 | 207,697,000 | 188,827,000 | 71,660,000 | 141,072,000 | 39,889,000 | 152,920,000 | 166,428,000 | 324,076,000 | 275,304,000 |
Ratios
| Metric | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Net margin | 6.79% | 11.65% | 10.06% | 11.18% | 10.40% | 11.05% | 1.71% | 4.65% | 15.13% | 5.95% | ||
| Operating margin | 8.98% | 5.26% | 9.13% | 4.93% | 3.48% | 2.43% | 2.14% | 1.57% | 4.50% | 4.78% | ||
| Return on equity | 9.30% | 9.88% | 7.99% | 8.00% | 1.80% | 5.16% | 17.02% | 6.10% | ||||
| Return on assets | 3.80% | 6.12% | 5.69% | 5.53% | 4.66% | 4.74% | 1.02% | 2.86% | 9.44% | 3.48% | ||
| Liabilities / equity | 0.63 | 0.78 | 0.71 | 0.68 | 0.74 | 0.80 | 0.79 | 0.74 | ||||
| Current ratio | 2.29 | 1.98 | 1.89 | 1.60 | 1.87 | 1.58 | 1.47 | 1.50 | 1.75 | 1.75 |
Industry Peer Context
Net margin peer context
Operating margin peer context
ROE peer context
ROA peer context
Financial Bridges
Free cash flow = operating cash flow - capital expenditures
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts FY 2025. Operating cash flow: accession 0001628280-26-011405; concept NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities; source concepts us-gaap:NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities | Capital expenditures: accession 0001628280-26-011405; concept PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment; source concepts us-gaap:PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment | Free cash flow: accession 0001628280-26-011405; concept NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities - PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment; source concepts us-gaap:NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities; us-gaap:PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment
Financial Charts
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001628280-26-011405; filed 2026-02-25. Concept: RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax. Source concepts: us-gaap:RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001628280-26-011405; filed 2026-02-25. Concept: NetIncomeLoss. Source concepts: us-gaap:NetIncomeLoss.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001628280-26-011405; filed 2026-02-25. Concept: OperatingIncomeLoss. Source concepts: us-gaap:OperatingIncomeLoss.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001628280-26-011405; filed 2026-02-25. Concept: EarningsPerShareDiluted. Source concepts: us-gaap:EarningsPerShareDiluted.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001628280-26-011405; filed 2026-02-25. Concept: NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities. Source concepts: us-gaap:NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001628280-26-011405; filed 2026-02-25. Concept: PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment. Source concepts: us-gaap:PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001628280-26-011405; filed 2026-02-25. Concept: PaymentsForRepurchaseOfCommonStock. Source concepts: us-gaap:PaymentsForRepurchaseOfCommonStock.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001628280-26-011405; filed 2026-02-25. Concept: Assets. Source concepts: us-gaap:Assets.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001628280-26-011405; filed 2026-02-25. Concept: Liabilities. Source concepts: us-gaap:Liabilities.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001628280-26-011405; filed 2026-02-25. Concept: StockholdersEquity. Source concepts: us-gaap:StockholdersEquity.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001628280-26-011405; filed 2026-02-25. Concept: CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue. Source concepts: us-gaap:CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001628280-26-011405; filed 2026-02-25. Concept: NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities - PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment. Source concepts: us-gaap:NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities; us-gaap:PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment.
Quarterly
Quarterly standardized facts from SEC companyfacts as of latest extracted filing date 2026-02-25. Source: https://data.sec.gov/api/xbrl/companyfacts/CIK0000104889.json.
| Quarter | End Date | Revenue | Net Income | Diluted EPS | Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022-Q1 | 2022-03-31 | 19.45 | reported discrete quarter | ||
| 2022-Q2 | 2022-06-30 | -13.95 | reported discrete quarter | ||
| 2022-Q3 | 2022-09-30 | 6.76 | reported discrete quarter | ||
| 2023-Q1 | 2023-03-31 | 1,031,546,000 | 52,272,000 | 10.88 | reported discrete quarter |
| 2023-Q2 | 2023-06-30 | 1,104,999,000 | 122,788,000 | 25.89 | reported discrete quarter |
| 2023-Q3 | 2023-09-30 | 1,111,519,000 | -23,031,000 | -5.02 | reported discrete quarter |
| 2023-Q4 | 2023-12-31 | 1,166,813,000 | 53,259,000 | derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD | |
| 2024-Q1 | 2024-03-31 | 1,152,662,000 | 124,380,000 | 27.72 | reported discrete quarter |
| 2024-Q2 | 2024-06-30 | 1,185,280,000 | -21,040,000 | -4.79 | reported discrete quarter |
| 2024-Q3 | 2024-09-30 | 1,207,162,000 | 72,503,000 | 16.42 | reported discrete quarter |
| 2024-Q4 | 2024-12-31 | 1,245,800,000 | 548,791,000 | derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD | |
| 2025-Q1 | 2025-03-31 | 1,165,915,000 | 23,894,000 | 5.45 | reported discrete quarter |
| 2025-Q2 | 2025-06-30 | 1,215,772,000 | 36,749,000 | 8.35 | reported discrete quarter |
| 2025-Q3 | 2025-09-30 | 1,278,859,000 | 122,925,000 | 27.91 | reported discrete quarter |
| 2025-Q4 | 2025-12-31 | 1,251,017,000 | 108,723,000 | derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD |
Quarterly Charts
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001628280-26-011405; filed 2026-02-25. Concept: RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax. Source concepts: us-gaap:RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001628280-26-011405; filed 2026-02-25. Concept: NetIncomeLoss. Source concepts: us-gaap:NetIncomeLoss.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-09-30; accession 0001628280-25-046925; filed 2025-10-29. Concept: EarningsPerShareDiluted. Source concepts: us-gaap:EarningsPerShareDiluted.
Macro Cross-References
- CPIAUCSL - Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: All Items in U.S. City Average
- UNRATE - Unemployment Rate
- FEDFUNDS - Federal Funds Effective Rate
- CES0500000003 - Average Hourly Earnings of All Employees, Total Private
- DFEDTARU - Federal Funds Target Range - Upper Limit
- DFEDTARL - Federal Funds Target Range - Lower Limit
- DGS3MO - Market Yield on U.S. Treasury Securities at 3-Month Constant Maturity
- DGS2 - Market Yield on U.S. Treasury Securities at 2-Year Constant Maturity
- DGS10 - Market Yield on U.S. Treasury Securities at 10-Year Constant Maturity
- DGS30 - Market Yield on U.S. Treasury Securities at 30-Year Constant Maturity
- T10Y2Y - 10-Year Treasury Constant Maturity Minus 2-Year Treasury Constant Maturity
- CPILFESL - Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: All Items Less Food and Energy
- CPIUFDSL - Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: Food
- CPIENGSL - Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: Energy
- CUSR0000SAH1 - Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: Shelter
- PCEPI - Personal Consumption Expenditures: Chain-type Price Index
- PCEPILFE - Personal Consumption Expenditures Excluding Food and Energy: Chain-type Price Index
- PPIACO - Producer Price Index by Commodity: All Commodities
- T10YIE - 10-Year Breakeven Inflation Rate
- U6RATE - Total Unemployed, Plus All Marginally Attached Workers Plus Total Employed Part Time for Economic Reasons
- PAYEMS - All Employees, Total Nonfarm
- CIVPART - Labor Force Participation Rate
- EMRATIO - Employment-Population Ratio
- UNEMPLOY - Unemployed
- CE16OV - Employment Level
- ICSA - Initial Claims
- JTSJOL - Job Openings: Total Nonfarm
- JTSQUR - Quits: Total Nonfarm
- GDPC1 - Real Gross Domestic Product
- A191RL1Q225SBEA - Real Gross Domestic Product: Percent Change from Preceding Period
- INDPRO - Industrial Production: Total Index
- TCU - Capacity Utilization: Total Index
- HOUST - New Privately-Owned Housing Units Started: Total Units
- PERMIT - New Privately-Owned Housing Units Authorized in Permit-Issuing Places: Total Units
- RSAFS - Advance Retail Sales: Retail Trade
- PCE - Personal Consumption Expenditures
- DSPIC96 - Real Disposable Personal Income
- PSAVERT - Personal Saving Rate
- M2SL - M2
- BOPGSTB - U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services: Balance
- MSPUS - Median Sales Price of Houses Sold for the United States
- HSN1F - New One Family Houses Sold: United States
- RHORUSQ156N - Homeownership Rate in the United States
- TTLCONS - Total Construction Spending: Total Construction in the United States
- RRVRUSQ156N - Rental Vacancy Rate in the United States
- TOTALSL - Total Consumer Credit Owned and Securitized
- REVOLSL - Revolving Consumer Credit Owned and Securitized
- DRCCLACBS - Delinquency Rate on Credit Card Loans, All Commercial Banks
- GDP - Gross Domestic Product
- GPDI - Gross Private Domestic Investment
- GCE - Government Consumption Expenditures and Gross Investment
- PCEC - Personal Consumption Expenditures
- NETEXP - Net Exports of Goods and Services
- GFDEBTN - Federal Debt: Total Public Debt
- GFDEGDQ188S - Federal Debt: Total Public Debt as Percent of Gross Domestic Product
- FYFSD - Federal Surplus or Deficit
- FGRECPT - Federal Government Current Receipts
- FGEXPND - Federal Government: Current Expenditures
- MANEMP - All Employees, Manufacturing
- USCONS - All Employees, Construction
- USTRADE - All Employees, Retail Trade
- USFIRE - All Employees, Financial Activities
- USGOVT - All Employees, Government
- AWHAETP - Average Weekly Hours of All Employees, Total Private
- DGORDER - Manufacturers' New Orders: Durable Goods
- NEWORDER - Manufacturers' New Orders: Nondefense Capital Goods Excluding Aircraft
- BUSINV - Total Business Inventories
- EXPGS - Exports of Goods and Services
- IMPGS - Imports of Goods and Services
- IR - Import Price Index (End Use): All Commodities
- PPIFIS - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Final Demand
Latest quarter (10-Q)
Latest 10-Q source: 0001628280-26-028607.
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Results of Operations and Financial Condition.
This analysis should be read in conjunction with the condensed consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto.
Results of Operations
The Company reported net income attributable to common shares of $29.1 million ($6.62 per share) for the first quarter of 2026, compared to $23.9 million ($5.45 per share) for the first quarter of 2025.
Items included in the Company’s net income for the first quarter of 2026:
•$19.0 million of impairment charges related to the Kaplan Languages Group (KLG) (after-tax impact of $14.3 million, or $3.26 per share);
•$4.1 million in non-operating expenses related to Separation Incentive Programs (SIPs) at the education, television broadcasting and manufacturing divisions, other businesses and the corporate office (after-tax impact of $3.0 million, or $0.69 per share);
•$0.7 million in interest income to adjust the fair value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest (after-tax impact of $0.5 million, or $0.12 per share);
•$68.9 million in net losses on marketable equity securities (after-tax impact of $51.3 million, or $11.66 per share);
•$31.0 million in net earnings of affiliates whose operations are not managed by the Company (after-tax impact of $23.1 million, or $5.24 per share); and
•a non-operating gain of $0.5 million from the sale of a cost method investment (after-tax impact of $0.4 million, or $0.08 per share).
Items included in the Company’s net income for the first quarter of 2025:
•$0.6 million in non-operating expenses related to SIPs at other businesses (after-tax impact of $0.5 million, or $0.11 per share);
•$66.4 million in interest expense to adjust the fair value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest (after-tax impact of $50.4 million, or $11.49 per share);
•$43.8 million in net gains on marketable equity securities (after-tax impact of $32.6 million, or $7.43 per share); and
•$11.9 million in net losses of affiliates whose operations are not managed by the Company (after-tax impact of $8.9 million, or $2.02 per share).
Revenue for the first quarter of 2026 was $1,236.0 million, up 6% from $1,165.9 million in the first quarter of 2025. Revenues increased at education, television broadcasting, healthcare and manufacturing, partially offset by declines at automotive and other businesses. The Company reported operating income of $57.8 million for the first quarter of 2026, compared to $47.5 million for the first quarter of 2025. The increase in operating results is due to improved results at television broadcasting, manufacturing and other businesses, partially offset by declines at education, healthcare and automotive.
Division Results
Education
Education division revenue totaled $440.5 million for the first quarter of 2026, up 4% from $424.7 million for the same period of 2025. Kaplan reported operating income of $32.4 million for the first quarter of 2026, compared to $40.0 million for the first quarter of 2025.
27
A summary of Kaplan’s operating results is as follows:
| Three Months Ended | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| March 31 | |||||||||||||||
| (in thousands) | 2026 | 2025 | % Change | ||||||||||||
| Revenue | |||||||||||||||
| Kaplan international | $ | 271,636 | $ | 261,256 | 4 | ||||||||||
| Higher education | 92,403 | 88,487 | 4 | ||||||||||||
| Supplemental education | 76,864 | 75,403 | 2 | ||||||||||||
| Kaplan corporate and other | 271 | 12 | — | ||||||||||||
| Intersegment elimination | (695) | (427) | — | ||||||||||||
| $ | 440,479 | $ | 424,731 | 4 | |||||||||||
| Operating Income (Loss) | |||||||||||||||
| Kaplan international | $ | 31,387 | $ | 30,062 | 4 | ||||||||||
| Higher education | 17,689 | 12,807 | 38 | ||||||||||||
| Supplemental education | 7,280 | 5,968 | 22 | ||||||||||||
| Kaplan corporate and other | (4,350) | (6,648) | 35 | ||||||||||||
| Amortization of intangible assets | (314) | (2,119) | 85 | ||||||||||||
| Impairment of goodwill and asset group held for sale | (19,029) | — | — | ||||||||||||
| Intersegment elimination | (281) | (37) | — | ||||||||||||
| $ | 32,382 | $ | 40,033 | (19) |
In the first quarter of 2026, the Company entered into an agreement to sell KLG included in Kaplan International, with an expected closing date of May 1, 2026. At March 31, 2026, the Company classified the assets and liabilities of KLG as held for sale; the Company also recorded a $19.0 million pre-tax impairment charge in the first quarter of 2026 related to the KLG business. Excluding the impairment charge, Kaplan’s operating income was up significantly in the first quarter of 2026.
Kaplan International includes postsecondary education, professional training and language training businesses largely outside the United States (U.S.). Kaplan International revenue increased 4% for the first quarter of 2026 (3% decrease on a constant currency basis) due to increases at Singapore, UK Professional and Kaplan Open Learning (KOL), partially offset by declines at Pathways. Kaplan International reported operating income of $31.4 million in the first quarter of 2026, compared to $30.1 million in the first quarter of 2025. Operating results at Singapore and KOL grew significantly as a result of strong enrollment growth. The increase was partially offset by declines at the Pathways business. In particular, revenues and operating results were down significantly at US Pathways due to the continued adverse impact of changes in U.S. visa policies and practices for international students recruited by Kaplan to study in the U.S.
Higher Education includes the results of Kaplan as a service provider to higher education institutions. Higher Education revenue increased 4% for the first quarter of 2026, due primarily to an increase in the Purdue Global fee recorded. Enrollments at Purdue Global, the largest institutional client, increased 8% for the first three months of 2026 compared to the first three months of 2025. For the first quarter of 2026, Kaplan recorded the full fee from Purdue Global, while only a portion of the fee from Purdue Global was recorded for the first quarter of 2025. However, in the second quarter and first six months of 2025, Kaplan recorded the full fee from Purdue Global. The Company will continue to assess the fee it records from Purdue Global on a quarterly basis to make a determination as to whether to record all or part of the fee in the future and whether to adjust fee amounts recognized in earlier periods. Higher Education operating results improved in the first quarter of 2026 due to an increase in the Purdue Global fee recorded, and a decline in higher education development costs.
Supplemental Education includes Kaplan’s standardized test preparation programs and domestic professional and other continuing education businesses. Supplemental Ed revenue increased 2% due to growth in most of its professional preparation program offerings, offset in part by softness in publishing sales volume. Operating results increased in the first quarter of 2026 from revenue growth and improved margins.
Kaplan corporate and other represents unallocated expenses of Kaplan’s corporate office, other minor businesses and certain shared activities.
In the first quarter of 2026, the Company offered a SIP to certain employees at Kaplan International, Higher Education and Supplemental Education; $1.9 million in related non-operating pension expense was recorded in the first quarter of 2026. This program was funded from the assets of the Company’s pension plan.
28
Television Broadcasting
A summary of television broadcasting’s operating results is as follows:
| Three Months Ended | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| March 31 | |||||||||||||||
| (in thousands) | 2026 | 2025 | % Change | ||||||||||||
| Revenue | $ | 111,553 | $ | 103,554 | 8 | ||||||||||
| Operating Income | 33,943 | 24,398 | 39 |
Graham Media Group owns seven television stations located in Houston, TX; Detroit, MI; Orlando, FL; San Antonio, TX; Jacksonville, FL; and Roanoke, VA, as well as SocialNewsDesk, a provider of social media management tools designed to connect newsrooms with their users.
Revenue at the television broadcasting division increased 8% to $111.6 million in the first quarter of 2026, from $103.6 million in the same period of 2025. The revenue increase is due to a $7.3 million increase in political advertising revenue and increases from winter Olympics and Super Bowl advertising revenue at the Company’s NBC affiliates in the first quarter of 2026, partially offset by a $2.9 million decrease in retransmission revenue. Operating income for the first quarter of 2026 was up 39% to $33.9 million, from $24.4 million in the same period of 2025, due to higher revenues and lower overall costs.
While per subscriber rates from cable, satellite and OTT providers have grown, overall cable and satellite subscribers are down due to cord cutting, resulting in retransmission revenue net of network fees in 2026 expected to decline compared with 2025, and this trend is expected to continue.
In the first quarter of 2026, the Company offered a SIP to certain employees at the television broadcasting division; $0.6 million in related non-operating pension expense was recorded. This program was funded from the assets of the Company’s pension plan.
In March 2026, the Company’s television station in San Antonio (KSAT) entered into a new network affiliation agreement with ABC that covers the period April 1, 2026 through March 31, 2030.
Healthcare
Healthcare division revenue totaled $209.3 million for the first quarter of 2026, up 20% from $173.7 million for the same period of 2025. Healthcare reported operating income of $17.4 million for the first quarter of 2026, compared to $18.3 million for the first quarter of 2025.
A summary of healthcare division’s operating results is as follows:
| Three Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| March 31 | ||||||||||||||||
| (in thousands) | 2026 | 2025 | % Change | |||||||||||||
| Revenue | ||||||||||||||||
| CSI | $ | 117,781 | $ | 90,248 | 31 | |||||||||||
| Other Healthcare | 91,559 | 83,493 | 10 | |||||||||||||
| $ | 209,340 | $ | 173,741 | 20 | ||||||||||||
| Operating Income | ||||||||||||||||
| CSI | $ | 6,312 | $ | 9,643 | (35) | |||||||||||
| Other Healthcare | 11,114 | 8,674 | 28 | |||||||||||||
| $ | 17,426 | $ | 18,317 | (5) |
The healthcare group provides nursing care and prescription services for patients receiving in-home infusion treatments through its 93.4% interest in CSI Pharmacy Holding Company, LLC (CSI). In August 2025, CSI purchased Pine Drug Holdings, LLC and was issued a California pharmacy license, with dispensing operations commencing late in the fourth quarter of 2025. CSI revenue increased 31% in the first quarter of 2026 from continued expansion of treatment offerings and patient service areas. Operating results were down in the first quarter of 2026 due to various operational investments including expanding CSI’s pharmacy facility locations; lower operating margins for certain products compared with the first quarter of 2025; and increased incentive compensation expense. The Company expects revenue and operating income growth at CSI for the remainder of 2026 compared with 2025.
Healthcare also includes Graham Healthcare Group (GHG), which provides home health and hospice services in seven states. In Marc
[Excerpt truncated for page length; source filing is linked above.]
Latest 10-K MD&A
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND FINANCIAL CONDITION
This analysis should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and the notes thereto. Refer to Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in the Graham Holdings Company’s 2024 Annual Report on Form 10-K for management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to the year ended December 31, 2023.
OVERVIEW
Graham Holdings Company (the Company) is a diversified holding company whose operations include educational services, television broadcasting, healthcare, manufacturing and automotive dealerships. The Company has five business divisions, seven reportable segments and a group of companies that make up Other Businesses. The Company’s business units are diverse and subject to different trends and risks.
Education is the largest operating division of the Company, making up 35% of the Company’s consolidated revenues in 2025 and having the largest operating income in 2025. Through its subsidiary Kaplan, Inc., the Company provides extensive worldwide education services for individuals, schools and businesses. The Company has devoted significant resources and attention to this division for many years, given its geographic and product diversity, the investment opportunities and growth prospects during this time, and challenges related to government regulation. Kaplan is organized into the following three operating segments: Kaplan International (KI), Kaplan Higher Education (KHE) and Supplemental Education.
KI reported revenue and operating income growth for 2025 due largely to increases at UK Professional and Singapore, partially offset by declines at Pathways and Languages. KHE revenue and operating income improved due to an increase in the fees from Purdue University Global (Purdue Global). Supplemental Education revenues and operating results improved in 2025 due to growth in most of the program offerings.
Television broadcasting was the Company’s second largest business in 2025 from an operating income standpoint. The Company’s television broadcasting division reported lower revenues and operating income in 2025, due largely to a significant decrease in political advertising revenue from the 2024 election cycle and declines in local and digital advertising revenue. Retransmission revenues, net of network fee expense, declined in 2025 with this trend expected to continue in the future due largely to adverse subscriber trends from cord cutting.
The healthcare division has grown substantially over the last few years and provided meaningful operating cash flow from internal growth and acquisitions. Since 2019, the healthcare division has expanded from its home health and hospice operations into new lines of business. The largest of these is CSI Pharmacy Holding Company, LLC (CSI), which provides nursing care and prescription services for patients receiving in-home infusion treatments. CSI reported significant revenue growth and substantially higher operating results in 2025 from an expansion of infusion treatment offerings and patient service areas in 2025. Healthcare’s home health and hospice revenue and operating results have also grown substantially in recent years, with investments to streamline operations and enhance patient care, along with a reduction in pension expense in 2025.
The Company’s manufacturing division has provided meaningful operating cash flow over the last few years, with Dekko experiencing improved revenues and operating results in 2025, and declines at Hoover in recent years. In July 2025, Hoover acquired Arconic Architectural Products, LLC, which manufactures aluminum cladding products and operates within the broader non-residential materials space. Automotive revenues and operating results declined in 2025 due largely to lower new and used vehicle sales and a decline in sales of finance and insurance products offerings, partially offset by the Honda of Woodbridge acquisition in October 2025 as well as sales growth for services and parts.
The Company’s other businesses include several investment stage businesses as well as investments into new lines of business over the last few years. In total, there are ten operating business units that make up this group in three categories: specialty, retail and media. The largest of these businesses from a revenue standpoint is Clyde’s Restaurant Group (CRG) and Framebridge, a custom framing service company. In 2025, CRG and Foreign Policy each reported positive operating income, Code3 reported break-even results, and the other businesses each reported operating losses, which were significant at Framebridge.
The Company generates a significant amount of cash from its businesses that is used to support its operations, pay down debt and fund capital expenditures, share repurchases, dividends, acquisitions and other investments.
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RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Net income attributable to common shares was $292.3 million ($66.47 per share) for the year ended December 31, 2025, compared to $724.6 million ($163.40 per share) for the year ended December 31, 2024.
Items included in the Company’s net income for 2025 are listed below:
•$12.3 million in intangible and other long-lived asset impairment charges (after-tax impact of $9.5 million, or $2.16 per share);
•$9.2 million in non-operating expenses related to Separation Incentive Programs (SIPs) at other businesses, the education, television broadcasting and manufacturing divisions and the corporate office (after-tax impact of $6.8 million, or $1.55 per share);
•$54.5 million in interest expense to adjust the fair value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest (after-tax impact of $51.2 million, or $11.63 per share);
•$200.2 million in net gains on marketable equity securities (after-tax impact of $149.0 million, or $33.90 per share);
•$16.7 million in net losses of affiliates whose operations are not managed by the Company (after-tax impact of $12.4 million, or $2.83 per share);
•net non-operating gains of $8.9 million from earnings, sales and impairments of equity and cost method investments (after-tax impact of $6.6 million, or $1.50 per share); and
•a $9.9 million deferred tax expense arising from a change in the estimated deferred state income tax rate related to the Company’s pension and other postretirement plans ($2.26 per share).
Items included in the Company’s net income for 2024 are listed below:
•$49.8 million in goodwill and other long-lived asset impairment charges (after-tax impact of $39.4 million, or $8.89 per share);
•a $653.4 million fourth quarter settlement gain related to a retiree annuity pension purchase (after-tax impact of $486.1 million, or $109.62 per share);
•$21.0 million in non-operating expenses related to a Voluntary Retirement Incentive Program (VRIP) at the television broadcasting division and the corporate office, and SIPs at Kaplan, manufacturing and other businesses (after-tax impact of $15.6 million, or $3.52 per share);
•$119.3 million in interest expense to adjust the fair value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest (after-tax impact of $113.7 million, or $25.65 per share);
•$181.3 million in net gains on marketable equity securities (after-tax impact of $134.9 million, or $30.41 per share);
•$3.5 million in net losses of affiliates whose operations are not managed by the Company (after-tax impact of $2.6 million, or $0.59 per share);
•a non-operating gain of $7.2 million on the sale of certain businesses and websites (after-tax impact of $5.3 million, or $1.19 per share); and
•a net non-operating loss of $16.7 million from the impairments and valuation adjustments of equity and cost method investments (after-tax impact of $12.4 million, or $2.80 per share).
Revenue for 2025 was $4,911.6 million, up 3% from $4,790.9 million in 2024. Revenues increased at education, healthcare, manufacturing and other businesses, partially offset by declines at television broadcasting and automotive. Operating costs and expenses for the year increased to $4,676.6 million in 2025, from $4,575.4 million in 2024. Expenses in 2025 increased at healthcare and manufacturing, partially offset by a decrease at television broadcasting, automotive, other businesses and education. The Company reported operating income for 2025 of $234.9 million, compared to $215.5 million in 2024. Excluding goodwill and other long-lived asset impairment charges, operating results were down in 2025, due to declines at television broadcasting and automotive, partially offset by increases at education, healthcare, manufacturing and other businesses.
Division Results
Education
Education division revenue in 2025 totaled $1,744.3 million, up 3% from $1,691.8 million in 2024. Kaplan reported operating income of $159.9 million for 2025, an increase from $100.8 million in 2024. Excluding long-lived asset impairment charges, operating results improved significantly in 2025.
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A summary of Kaplan’s operating results is as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2025 | 2024 | % Change | ||||||
| Revenue | |||||||||
| Kaplan international | $ | 1,079,570 | $ | 1,074,207 | 0 | ||||
| Higher education | 349,211 | 324,815 | 8 | ||||||
| Supplemental education | 317,159 | 291,630 | 9 | ||||||
| Kaplan corporate and other | 585 | 5,761 | (90) | ||||||
| Intersegment elimination | (2,193) | (4,635) | — | ||||||
| $ | 1,744,332 | $ | 1,691,778 | 3 | |||||
| Operating Income (Loss) | |||||||||
| Kaplan international | $ | 113,402 | $ | 101,699 | 12 | ||||
| Higher education | 56,410 | 40,750 | 38 | ||||||
| Supplemental education | 33,392 | 26,934 | 24 | ||||||
| Kaplan corporate and other | (37,388) | (35,148) | (6) | ||||||
| Amortization of intangible assets | (6,123) | (10,487) | 42 | ||||||
| Impairment of long-lived assets | — | (22,930) | — | ||||||
| Intersegment elimination | 180 | 11 | — | ||||||
| $ | 159,873 | $ | 100,829 | 59 |
KI includes postsecondary education, professional training and language training businesses largely outside the United States. KI revenue increased slightly in 2025 (2% decrease on a constant currency basis). The increase in 2025 is due largely to growth at UK Professional and Singapore, offset by lower student enrollments in US Pathways, Languages and UK Pathways. KI reported operating income of $113.4 million in 2025, compared to $101.7 million in 2024. The increase is due largely to improved results at Australia, Singapore and UK Professional, partially offset by declines at Languages, US Pathways and Mander Portman Woodward (MPW). US Pathways revenues and operating results were down significantly in 2025, due to changes in U.S. visa policies and practices for international students recruited by Kaplan to study in the U.S.
KHE includes the results of Kaplan as a service provider to higher education institutions. KHE revenue increased 8% in 2025 due to an increase in fees from Purdue Global and growth in other higher education programs. Average enrollments at Purdue Global, the largest institutional client, were up 4% for 2025 compared to 2024. In 2025, Kaplan recorded the full fee with Purdue Global, whereas in 2024, Kaplan recorded a portion of the fee. The Company will continue to assess the fee it records from Purdue Global on a quarterly basis to make a determination as to whether to record all or part of the fee in the future and whether to make adjustments to fee amounts recognized in earlier periods. During 2025 and 2024, Kaplan recorded $70.0 million and $54.5 million, respectively, in fees from Purdue Global in its KHE operating results. KHE results improved in 2025 due to an increase in the Purdue Global fee recorded.
Supplemental Education includes Kaplan’s standardized test preparation programs and domestic professional and other continuing education businesses. Most of the program offerings in Supplemental Education experienced growth in 2025 leading to a 9% revenue increase. Operating results improved in 2025 due largely to revenue growth.
In the second and third quarters of 2025, the Company offered SIPs to certain employees at KHE and Supplemental Education, $2.0 million in related non-operating pension expense was recorded. In 2024, Kaplan offered SIPs to certain employees, primarily at Supplemental Education; $2.8 million in related non-operating pension expense was recorded.
Kaplan corporate and other represents unallocated expenses of Kaplan, Inc.’s corporate office, other minor businesses and certain shared activities.
In the fourth quarter of 2024, Kaplan recorded an intangible asset impairment charge of $22.9 million related to MPW, which is part of KI.
Television Broadcasting
A summary of television broadcasting’s operating results is as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2025 | 2024 | % Change | ||||||
| Revenue | $ | 425,106 | $ | 535,678 | (21) | ||||
| Operating Income | 112,270 | 201,165 | (44) |
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Graham Media Group, Inc. (GMG) owns seven television stations located in Houston, TX; Detroit, MI; Orlando, FL; San Antonio, TX; Jacksonville, FL; and Roanoke, VA, as well as SocialNewsDesk, a provider of social media management tools designed to connect newsrooms with their users. Revenue at the television broadcasting division was down 21% to $425.1 million in 2025, from $535.7 million in 2024. The revenue decline is due to a $87.9 million decrease in political advertising revenue, a $10.3 million decrease in retransmission revenues and declines in local and digital advertising revenue. Operating income for 2025 was down 44% to $112.3 million, from $201.2 million in 2024, due to lower revenues, partially offset by lower overall costs. While per subscriber rates from cable, satellite and OTT providers have grown, overall cable and satellite subscribers are down due to cord cutting, resulting in retransmission revenue net of network fees in 2025 to decline compared with 2024, and this trend is expected to continue in the future. Operating margin at the television broadcasting division was 26% in 2025 and 38% in 2024.
In the second and third quarters of 2025, the Company offered SIPs to certain employees at the television broadcasting division, $0.1 million in related non-operating pension expense was recorded. In the second quarter of 2024, GMG offered a VRIP to certain employees; $14.3 million in related non-operating pension expense was recorded.
Healthcare
Healthcare division revenue in 2025 totaled $815.0 million, up 33% from $611.1 million in 2024. Healthcare reported operating income of $96.0 million for 2025, an increase from $50.9 million in 2024.
A summary of the healthcare division’s operating results is as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2025 | 2024 | % Change | ||||||
| Revenue | |||||||||
| CSI | $ | 465,508 | $ | 299,598 | 55 | ||||
| Other Healthcare | 349,541 | 311,511 | 12 | ||||||
| $ | 815,049 | $ | 611,109 | 33 | |||||
| Operating Income | |||||||||
| CSI | $ | 53,234 | $ | 39,090 | 36 | ||||
| Other Healthcare | 42,735 | 11,795 | — | ||||||
| $ | 95,969 | $ | 50,885 | 89 |
The healthcare group provides nursing care and prescription services for patients receiving in-home infusion treatments through its 87.5% interest in CSI. In August 2025, CSI purchased Pine Drug Holdings, LLC and was issued a California pharmacy license, with dispensing operations commencing late in the fourth quarter of 2025. CSI revenue increased 55% in 2025 and operating results were up substantially from an expansion of infusion treatment offerings and patient service areas.
The healthcare group also provides home health and hospice services in seven states, and other healthcare services through Clarus (provides call management SaaS-based solution for physician groups and hospitals), Impact Medical (an allergy, asthma and immunology physician practice), Skin Clique (a concierge provider of aesthetics products and services) and Surpass Behavioral Health (provides therapy for autism patients). Revenue increased in other healthcare businesses by 12% in 2025 from growth in home health and hospice services and the other healthcare businesses. Operating results improved substantially at home health and hospice, and improved at all the other healthcare businesses; operating results also benefited from a reduction in pension expense.
In January 2022, Healthcare implemented a pension credit retention program offering a pension credit up to $50,000 per employee, cliff vested after three years of continuous employment for certain existing employees and new employees. Effective April 1, 2024, this program is no longer being offered to new employees.
In the third quarter of 2025, home health and hospice recorded $1.0 million of lease impairment charges.
The Company also holds interests in four home health and hospice joint ventures managed by Healthcare, whose results are included in equity in earnings of affiliates in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. In 2025 and 2024, the Company recorded equity in earnings of $13.6 million and $13.7 million, respectively, from these joint ventures.
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Manufacturing
A summary of manufacturing’s operating results is as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2025 | 2024 | % Change | ||||||
| Revenue | $ | 436,279 | $ | 395,642 | 10 | ||||
| Operating Income | 18,621 | 18,370 | 1 |
Manufacturing includes four businesses: Hoover, a supplier of pressure impregnated kiln-dried lumber and plywood products for fire retardant and preservative applications; Dekko, a manufacturer of electrical workspace solutions, architectural lighting and electrical components and assemblies; Joyce, a manufacturer of screw jacks and other linear motion systems; and Forney, a global supplier of products and systems that control and monitor combustion processes in electric utility and industrial applications. On July 15, 2025, Hoover acquired Arconic Architectural Products, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Arconic Corporation (operating as Hoover Architectural Solutions), which manufactures aluminum cladding products and operates within the broader non-residential materials space from its facility in Eastman, GA. A significant portion of the purchase price was funded by the Company’s assumption of $107.5 million in net pension obligations.
Manufacturing revenues increased 10% in 2025 due to increased revenues at Hoover, Dekko and Joyce, partially offset by lower revenues at Forney. The revenue increase at Hoover is due to the Arconic acquisition, partially offset by a decline in overall product demand. Revenues improved at Dekko due largely to sales growth for commercial office power and data products, and medical equipment assembly products. Overall, Hoover results included modest wood gains on inventory sales in 2025 and 2024. Manufacturing operating results improved slightly in 2025 due to substantially improved results at Dekko, along with a modest improvement at Joyce and Forney, partially offset by significant declines at Hoover. Hoover results in 2025 included significant transaction, transition and intangible asset amortization costs related to the Arconic transaction, along with a substantial decline in Hoover’s core fire-retardant wood product business from the continued sluggish multi-family housing market. Excluding costs related to the Arconic transaction, Hoover Architectural Solutions had positive operating results in the second half of 2025.
In the third quarter of 2025, the Company offered a SIP to certain employees at Joyce; $0.1 million in related non-operating pension expense was recorded. In the third and fourth quarters of 2024, Dekko offered SIPs to certain employees; $0.2 million in related non-operating pension expense was recorded.
Automotive
A summary of automotive’s operating results is as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2025 | 2024 | % Change | ||||||
| Revenue | $ | 1,133,153 | $ | 1,200,477 | (6) | ||||
| Operating Income | 17,380 | 38,015 | (54) |
Automotive includes eight automotive dealerships in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area and Richmond, VA: Ourisman Lexus of Rockville, Ourisman Honda of Tysons Corner, Ourisman Ford of Manassas, Toyota of Woodbridge, Ourisman Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep-Ram (CDJR) of Woodbridge, Ourisman Toyota of Richmond, and Ourisman Kia of Bethesda. In addition, on October 21, 2025, the Company acquired a Honda automotive dealership in Woodbridge, VA, including the real property for the dealership operations. Christopher J. Ourisman, a member of the Ourisman Automotive Group family of dealerships, and his team of industry professionals operates and manages the dealerships; the Company holds a 90% stake.
The Company recently decided to cease operations of the Ourisman Jeep of Bethesda dealership, which was closed in early September 2025. As a result, the Company recorded a $0.6 million intangible asset impairment charge on the related franchise agreement in the third quarter of 2025. In addition, as a result of underperformance at the CDJR automotive dealership from a continued decline in revenues, the Company recorded a $10.1 million intangible asset impairment charge in the fourth quarter of 2025.
Revenues for 2025 decreased 6% due to the closure of the Ourisman Jeep of Bethesda dealership in September 2025, and declines in new and used vehicle sales and sales of finance and insurance products offerings. The decline was partially offset by the Honda of Woodbridge acquisition as well as sales growth for services and parts. Operating results for 2025 declined due to lower overall sales and gross margins on new and used vehicles and a decline in finance and insurance product sales, partially offset by higher overall gross profit on services and parts.
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Other Businesses
In the first half of 2025, the Company completed the sale of various websites and related businesses of World of Good Brands (WGB). All remaining WGB operations were substantially shut down by the end of the third quarter of 2025. WGB recorded various asset write-offs and incurred other costs in the second and third quarters of 2025 related to these actions.
A summary of revenue by category for other businesses:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2025 | 2024 | % Change | ||||||
| Operating Revenues | |||||||||
| Specialty (1) | $ | 163,669 | $ | 153,651 | 7 | ||||
| Retail (2) | 118,100 | 110,286 | 7 | ||||||
| Media (3) | 75,891 | 92,583 | (18) | ||||||
| $ | 357,660 | $ | 356,520 | 0 |
____________
| (1) | Includes Clyde’s Restaurant Group, Decile and Supporting Cast |
|---|---|
| (2) | Includes Framebridge, Saatchi Art and Society6 |
| (3) | Includes Slate, Foreign Policy, Code3, WGB and City Cast |
Overall, revenue from other businesses increased slightly in 2025. Specialty revenue increased due to revenue growth at CRG and Supporting Cast. Retail revenue increased due to revenue growth at Framebridge and Saatchi Art, partially offset by lower revenue at Society6. Media revenue declined due to lower revenue at WGB, Slate, and Code3, partially offset by revenue growth at Foreign Policy and City Cast.
Overall, operating results at other businesses improved in 2025 due largely to $26.3 million in goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges at WGB in 2024. Excluding these impairment charges, operating losses in 2025 were modestly lower than the prior year.
Clyde’s Restaurant Group
CRG owns and operates 14 restaurants and entertainment venues in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, including Old Ebbitt Grill and The Hamilton. In July 2024, CRG opened Rye Street Tavern, a new restaurant in Baltimore, MD. In November 2024, CRG opened Cordelia Fishbar, a new restaurant in Washington, D.C. Revenue increased in 2025 due to the new restaurant openings and modest price increases, partially offset by softer demand and lower guest traffic at the D.C. restaurants in the second half of 2025. CRG reported an operating profit in 2025 and 2024, with operating results improved in 2025; pre-opening expenses incurred for new restaurants were lower in 2025.
CRG plans to open a new restaurant in Reston, VA in the second quarter of 2026, as well as a Clyde’s at Dulles International Airport under a licensing agreement later in 2026.
Framebridge
Framebridge is a custom framing service company, headquartered in the Washington, D.C. area, with 44 retail locations and four manufacturing facilities in Kentucky, Virginia and Nevada (opened in the third quarter of 2025). Framebridge opened 13 new stores in 2025, including six new stores in California, and continues to actively explore opportunities for further store expansion. Revenues grew in 2025 due to an increase in retail revenue from same-store sales growth and operating additional retail stores compared to 2024, as well as higher online revenues, particularly during the holiday season. Framebridge is an investment stage business and reported significant operating losses in 2025 and 2024, and operating losses at Framebridge in 2025 were higher than in 2024. Framebridge operating results include ongoing expansion investments from new retail store openings and the new manufacturing facility in Nevada.
In the first and second quarters of 2024, Framebridge offered a SIP; $1.4 million in related non-operating pension expense was recorded.
Other
Other businesses also include Code3, a performance marketing agency focused on driving performance for brands through three core elements of digital success: media, creative and commerce; Slate and Foreign Policy, which publish online and print magazines and websites; Saatchi Art and Society6, which offer art and designs of various consumer products; and three investment stage businesses, Decile, City Cast and Supporting Cast. Foreign Policy, Supporting Cast, City Cast, and Saatchi Art reported revenue growth in 2025, while WGB, Society6, Slate and Code3 reported revenue declines. Losses from Society6, WGB, City Cast, Saatchi Art, Decile, Slate and Supporting Cast in 2025 adversely affected operating results, while Foreign Policy reported an operating profit and Code3
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reported break-even results. In the second quarter of 2024, the Company recorded $26.3 million in goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges at WGB. Excluding the impairment charge, operating results in 2025 improved at Society6, Decile, Code3, Foreign Policy, Supporting Cast and Saatchi Art, with declines at Slate and increased losses at City Cast.
In 2025, the Company offered SIPs to certain employees at Code3, Saatchi Art, Society6, WGB and Decile; $7.0 million in related non-operating pension expense was recorded. In 2024, the Company offered SIPs to certain employees at Code3, Decile, Slate, Society6, Saatchi Art and WGB to reduce the number of employees; $1.8 million in related non-operating pension expense was recorded.
Corporate Office
Corporate office includes the expenses of the Company’s corporate office and certain continuing obligations related to prior business dispositions. Corporate office expenses were up in 2025 due to increased incentive compensation and employee healthcare costs, higher professional fees incurred related to transactions, and increased information technology costs.
Equity in Earnings (Losses) of Affiliates
At December 31, 2025, the Company held an approximate 25% interest in Intersection Holdings, LLC (Intersection), a company that provides digital marketing and advertising services and products for cities, transit systems, airports, and other public and private spaces; and a 41.4% interest in Realm on a fully diluted basis. The Company also holds interests in several other affiliates, including a number of home health and hospice joint ventures managed by GHG and a joint venture managed by Kaplan. Overall, the Company recorded equity in earnings of affiliates of $16.4 million for 2025, compared to losses of $3.3 million for 2024. These amounts include $16.7 million and $3.5 million in net losses for 2025 and 2024, respectively, from affiliates whose operations are not managed by the Company. The 2025 amount also includes a gain of $18.6 million in equity earnings related to the Company’s investment in Intersection. The 2024 amount also includes a $14.4 million impairment loss on the Company’s investment in N2K Networks.
Net Interest Expense and Related Balances
On November 24, 2025, the Company issued $500 million of 5.625% unsecured eight-year fixed-rate notes due December 1, 2033. Interest is paid semi-annually on June 1 and December 1. Also on November 24, 2025, the Company used the net proceeds from the sale of the notes, together with the borrowings under the revolving credit agreement, to (i) redeem the $400 million of 5.75% notes due June 1, 2026, (ii) refinance outstanding revolving loans under the existing revolving credit facility, and (iii) repay all amounts outstanding under the Company's existing $150 million term loan. On October 21, 2025, the automotive subsidiary borrowed $38.7 million under the delayed draw term loan to finance the acquisition of a Honda automotive dealership, including the real property for the dealership operations.
The Company incurred net interest expense of $110.5 million in 2025, compared to $176.3 million in 2024. The Company recorded net interest expense of $54.5 million and $119.3 million in 2025 and 2024, respectively, to adjust the fair value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest at GHG. The significant adjustments recorded in 2025 and 2024 are largely related to a substantial increase in the estimated fair value of CSI. On February 25, 2025, the Company and a group of minority shareholders entered into an agreement to settle a significant portion of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest for a total of $205 million, which consisted of approximately $186.25 million in cash and $18.75 million in Graham Holdings Company Class B common stock.
Excluding these adjustments, the net interest expense was down slightly in 2025 compared to 2024.
At December 31, 2025, the Company had $880.8 million in borrowings outstanding at an average interest rate of 5.7%, and cash, marketable equity securities and other investments of $1,400.4 million. At December 31, 2025, the Company had $222.5 million outstanding on its $400 million revolving credit facility. At December 31, 2024, the Company had $748.2 million in borrowings outstanding at an average interest rate of 6.0%, and cash, marketable equity securities and other investments of $1,156.6 million.
Non-Operating Pension and Postretirement Benefit Income, Net
The Company recorded net non-operating pension and postretirement benefit income of $127.5 million in 2025, compared to $794.9 million in 2024.
In the third quarter of 2025, the Company recorded $2.5 million in expenses related to non-operating SIPs at Kaplan, the television broadcasting division, manufacturing, the corporate office and other businesses. In the second quarter of 2025, the Company recorded $6.0 million in expenses related to non-operating SIPs at the education and television broadcasting divisions and other businesses. In the first quarter of 2025, the Company
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recorded $0.6 million in expenses related to non-operating SIPs at other businesses. The SIPs were funded by the assets of the Company’s pension plan.
In the fourth quarter of 2024, the Company recorded a pre-tax, noncash settlement gain of $653.4 million in connection with the purchase of an irrevocable group annuity contract from an insurance company.
Also in the fourth quarter of 2024, the Company recorded $0.5 million in expenses related to non-operating SIPs at Kaplan, manufacturing and other businesses. In the third quarter of 2024, the Company recorded $3.7 million in expenses related to non-operating SIPs at Kaplan, manufacturing and other businesses. In the second quarter of 2024, the Company recorded $14.8 million in expenses related to a VRIP at the television broadcasting division and the corporate office and $1.6 million in expenses related to non-operating SIPs at other businesses. In the first quarter of 2024, the Company recorded $0.4 million in expenses related to a non-operating SIP at other businesses. The SIPs and VRIP were funded by the assets of the Company’s pension plan.
Gain on Marketable Equity Securities, Net
The Company recognized $200.2 million in net gains on marketable equity securities in 2025 compared to $181.3 million in 2024.
Other Non-Operating (Expense) Income
The Company recorded total other non-operating expense, net, of $18.9 million in 2025, compared to income of $12.5 million in 2024. The 2025 amounts included $14.7 million in impairments on cost method investments and $10.1 million in foreign currency losses, partially offset by $4.7 million in gains on sales of cost method investments and other items. The 2024 amounts included gains of $7.2 million on the sales of certain businesses and websites; $5.4 million in foreign currency gains; $0.9 million in gains related to sale of businesses and contingent consideration, and other items; partially offset by $1.5 million in net fair value decreases on cost method investments and $0.7 million in impairments on cost method investments.
Provision for Income Taxes
The Company’s effective tax rates for 2025 and 2024 were 32.6% and 28.5%, respectively. The Company’s effective tax rate in 2025 and 2024 was unfavorably impacted by permanent differences related to the interest expense recorded to adjust the fair value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest at the healthcare division and the goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges. In addition, the 2025 effective tax rate was unfavorably impacted by a $9.9 million deferred tax adjustment arising from a change in the estimated deferred state income tax rate attributable to the apportionment formula used in the calculation of deferred taxes related to the Company’s pension and other postretirement plans. Excluding the impact of these items, the overall income tax rates for 2025 and 2024 were 27.6% and 25.8%, respectively.
Earnings Per Share
The calculation of diluted earnings per share for the 2025 was based on 4,372,606 weighted average shares outstanding, compared to 4,404,807 for 2024. At December 31, 2025, there were 4,360,943 shares outstanding.
FINANCIAL CONDITION: LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The Company considers the following when assessing its liquidity and capital resources:
| As of December 31 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In thousands) | 2025 | 2024 | ||||
| Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 266,988 | $ | 260,852 | ||
| Restricted cash | 44,417 | 37,001 | ||||
| Investments in marketable equity securities and other investments | 1,088,970 | 858,743 | ||||
| Total debt | 880,756 | 748,192 |
Cash generated by operations is the Company’s primary source of liquidity. The Company maintains investments in a portfolio of marketable equity securities, which is considered when assessing the Company’s sources of liquidity. An additional source of liquidity includes the undrawn portion of the Company’s $400 million revolving credit facility, amounting to $177.5 million at December 31, 2025.
During 2025, the Company’s cash and cash equivalents increased by $6.1 million, due to cash generated from operations and net borrowings from new debt, which was partially offset by the settlement of a significant portion of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest, capital expenditures, business acquisitions, purchases of marketable equity securities, investments in equity affiliates, dividend payments, and net repayments of the vehicle floor plan payable. In 2025, the Company’s borrowings increased by $132.6 million, primarily due to the issuance of
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$500 million senior unsecured eight-year fixed-rate notes, additional borrowings under the revolving credit facility, and new term loans at the automotive subsidiary, offset by repayment of the outstanding $400 million unsecured senior fixed-rate notes and the term loan.
As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, the Company had money market investments of $5.3 million and $3.9 million, respectively, that were included in cash and cash equivalents. At December 31, 2025, the Company held approximately $191 million in cash and cash equivalents in businesses domiciled outside the U.S., of which approximately $6 million is not available for immediate use in operations or for distribution. Additionally, Kaplan’s business operations outside the U.S. retain cash balances to support ongoing working capital requirements, capital expenditures, and regulatory requirements. As a result, the Company considers a significant portion of the cash and cash equivalents balance held outside the U.S. as not readily available for use in U.S. operations.
At December 31, 2025, the fair value of the Company’s investments in marketable equity securities was $1,081.9 million, which includes investments in the common stock of five publicly traded companies. The Company purchased $29.8 million of marketable equity securities during 2025. There were no sales of marketable equity securities during 2025. At December 31, 2025, the net unrealized gain related to the Company’s investments totaled $825.0 million.
The Company had working capital of $1,042.5 million and $898.8 million at December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively. The Company maintains working capital levels consistent with its underlying business requirements and consistently generates cash from operations in excess of required interest or principal payments.
At December 31, 2025 and 2024, the Company had borrowings outstanding of $880.8 million and $748.2 million, respectively. The Company’s borrowings at December 31, 2025 were mostly from $500.0 million of 5.625% unsecured notes due December 1, 2033, $222.5 million in outstanding borrowings under the Company’s revolving credit facility, and real estate and capital term loans of $155.9 million at the automotive subsidiary. The Company’s borrowings at December 31, 2024 were mostly from $400.0 million of 5.75% unsecured notes due June 1, 2026, $62.8 million in outstanding borrowings under the Company’s revolving credit facility, a term loan of $140.1 million, and real estate and capital term loans of $127.6 million at the automotive subsidiary.
On November 24, 2025, the Company issued $500 million of senior unsecured fixed-rate notes due December 1, 2033 (the Notes). The Notes are guaranteed, jointly and severally, on a senior unsecured basis, by certain of the Company's existing and future domestic subsidiaries, as described in the terms of the indenture, dated as of November 24, 2025 (the Indenture). The Notes have a coupon rate of 5.625% per annum, payable semi-annually on June 1 and December 1 of each year, beginning on June 1, 2026. The Company may redeem the Notes in whole or in part at any time at the respective redemption prices described in the Indenture.
In combination with the issuance of the Notes, the Company amended and restated the Second Amended and Restated Five Year Credit Agreement, dated as of May 3, 2022, to, among other things, (i) increase the Company’s borrowing capacity by replacing the existing revolving commitments with a new revolving credit facility in the aggregate principal amount of $400 million, (ii) extend the maturity of the facility to November 24, 2030, and (iii) increase the letter of credit sublimit to $40 million.
The Company used the net proceeds from the sale of the Notes, together with borrowings under the new revolving credit facility, to (i) redeem the $400 million of 5.75% unsecured notes due June 1, 2026, (ii) refinance outstanding revolving loans under the existing revolving credit facility, and (iii) repay all amounts outstanding under the Company's existing $150 million term loan.
On September 26, 2023, the Company’s automotive subsidiary entered into a credit agreement with Truist Bank that includes a delayed draw term loan under which the proceeds may be used to (i) finance the acquisition of automobile dealerships (delayed draw capital loan), and (ii) finance the acquisition of real estate (delayed draw real estate loan). The delayed draw term loan bears interest at variable rates based on Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) plus an applicable margin based on the type of delayed draw term loan requested. On September 24, 2025, the Company executed an amendment to extend the delayed draw term loan availability to November 10, 2025. On October 21, 2025, the automotive subsidiary borrowed $38.7 million under the delayed draw term loan to finance the acquisition of a Honda automotive dealership, including the real property for the dealership operations. The real estate term loan is payable in monthly installments of $0.4 million and bears interest at variable rates based on SOFR plus 1.75% per annum, and the capital term loan is payable in monthly installments of $0.7 million and bears interest at variable rates based on SOFR plus an applicable margin.
During 2025 and 2024, the Company had average borrowings outstanding of approximately $834.2 million and $804.7 million, respectively, at average annual interest rates of approximately 6.0% and 6.3%, respectively. The Company incurred net interest expense of $110.5 million and $176.3 million, respectively, during 2025 and 2024. Included in the 2025 and 2024 interest expense is $54.5 million and $119.3 million, respectively, to adjust the fair value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest (see Note 11).
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On February 25, 2025, the Company and a group of minority shareholders entered into an agreement to settle a significant portion of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest related to GHC One, including CSI, for a total of $205 million, which consisted of approximately $186.25 million in cash and $18.75 million in Graham Holdings Company Class B common stock.
The settlement agreement resulted in a $66.2 million increase to the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest obligation, which the Company recorded as interest expense in the first quarter of 2025. The remaining mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest obligation related to GHC One and GHC Two was $8.4 million at December 31, 2025.
On November 12, 2025, Moody’s affirmed the Company’s credit rating and maintained the outlook as Stable. Also on November 12, 2025, Standard & Poor’s affirmed the Company’s credit rating and maintained the outlook as Stable.
The Company’s current credit ratings are as follows:
| Moody’s | Standard & Poor’s | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Long-term | Ba1 | BB | |
| Outlook | Stable | Stable |
The Company expects to fund its estimated capital needs primarily through existing cash balances and internally generated funds, and, as needed, from borrowings under its revolving credit facility. As of December 31, 2025, the Company had $222.5 million outstanding under the $400 million revolving credit facility. In management’s opinion, the Company will have sufficient financial resources to meet its business requirements in the next 12 months, including working capital requirements, capital expenditures, interest payments, potential acquisitions and strategic investments, dividends and stock repurchases.
In summary, the Company’s cash flows for each period were as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In thousands) | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | |||||||
| Net cash provided by operating activities | $ | 347,185 | $ | 406,988 | $ | 259,875 | ||||
| Net cash used in investing activities | (179,441) | (62,330) | (152,975) | |||||||
| Net cash used in financing activities | (165,477) | (240,967) | (99,835) | |||||||
| Effect of currency exchange rate change | 11,285 | (7,729) | 4,394 | |||||||
| Net increase in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash | $ | 13,552 | $ | 95,962 | $ | 11,459 |
Operating Activities. Cash provided by operating activities is net income adjusted for certain non-cash items and changes in assets and liabilities. The Company’s net cash flow provided by operating activities were as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In thousands) | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | |||||||
| Net Income | $ | 303,267 | $ | 732,610 | $ | 211,704 | ||||
| Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: | ||||||||||
| Depreciation, amortization and goodwill and other long-lived asset impairments | 124,741 | 173,987 | 235,169 | |||||||
| Amortization of lease right-of-use asset | 59,749 | 63,253 | 67,734 | |||||||
| Net pension benefit, settlement gain and early retirement and special separation benefit expense | (83,771) | (740,152) | (101,398) | |||||||
| Other non-cash activities | (81,039) | 65,949 | (84,399) | |||||||
| Change in operating assets and liabilities | 24,238 | 111,341 | (68,935) | |||||||
| Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities | $ | 347,185 | $ | 406,988 | $ | 259,875 |
Net cash provided by operating activities consists primarily of cash receipts from customers, less disbursements for costs, benefits, income taxes, interest and other expenses.
For 2025 compared to 2024, the decrease in net cash provided by operating activities is primarily due to changes in operating assets and liabilities, partially offset by higher net income, net of non-cash adjustments. Changes in operating assets and liabilities were driven by an increase in the value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest and lower purchases of inventory, partially offset by lower collections from customers. The increase in the value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest in 2025 was $64.8 million lower than the corresponding increase in 2024. The change in non-cash activities is largely the result of a significant decrease in the provision for deferred income taxes.
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For 2024 compared to 2023, the increase in net cash provided by operating activities is primarily due to changes in operating assets and liabilities, partially offset by lower net income, net of non-cash adjustments. Changes in operating assets and liabilities were driven by a significant increase in the value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest and lower purchases of inventory. The change in non-cash activities is largely the result of a significant increase in the provision for deferred income taxes, partially offset by fluctuations in the share prices of the Company’s investments in marketable equity securities with larger gains in 2024 compared to 2023.
Investing Activities. The Company’s net cash flow used in investing activities were as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In thousands) | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | |||||||
| Purchases of property, plant and equipment | $ | (71,881) | $ | (82,912) | $ | (93,447) | ||||
| Investments in certain businesses, net of cash acquired | (71,235) | (4,118) | (78,149) | |||||||
| Investments in equity affiliates and cost method investments | (39,575) | (4,554) | (14,050) | |||||||
| Net (purchases of) proceeds from sales of marketable equity securities | (29,823) | 18,524 | 55,817 | |||||||
| Net proceeds from sales of businesses, property, plant and equipment, investments and other assets | 26,163 | 8,387 | 4,294 | |||||||
| Loan to related party | — | (2,000) | (30,000) | |||||||
| Other | 6,910 | 4,343 | 2,560 | |||||||
| Net Cash Used in Investing Activities | $ | (179,441) | $ | (62,330) | $ | (152,975) |
Capital Expenditures. The amounts reflected in the Company’s Statements of Cash Flows are based on cash payments made during the relevant periods, whereas the Company’s capital expenditures for 2025, 2024 and 2023 disclosed in Note 19 to the Consolidated Financial Statements include assets acquired during the year. The Company estimates that its capital expenditures will be in the range of $90 million to $100 million in 2026.
Acquisitions. During 2025, the Company acquired five businesses: one small business in supplemental education, two small businesses in other healthcare businesses, one in manufacturing and one in automotive for $71.2 million in cash and the assumption of floor plan payables and $107.5 million in net pension obligations. In July 2025, Hoover acquired 100% of Arconic Architectural Products, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Arconic Corporation, which manufactures aluminum cladding products and operates within the broader non-residential materials space from its facility in Eastman, GA. A significant portion of the purchase price was funded by the Company’s assumption of certain pension obligations. In October 2025, the Company’s automotive subsidiary acquired a Honda automotive dealership, including the real property for the dealership operations. In addition to a cash payment and the assumption of $4.9 million in floor plan payables, the automotive subsidiary borrowed $38.7 million under the delayed draw term loan to finance the acquisition.
During 2024, the Company acquired two small businesses. During 2023, the Company acquired five businesses: one in automotive, three small businesses in other healthcare businesses and one in other businesses for $83.3 million in cash and contingent consideration and the assumption of floor plan payables. In September 2023, the Company’s automotive subsidiary acquired a Toyota automotive dealership, including the real property for the dealership operations. In addition to a cash payment and the assumption of $2.2 million in floor plan payables, the automotive subsidiary borrowed $37.0 million to finance the acquisition.
Transactions with Related Parties. In September 2025, the Company invested an additional $29.3 million in its equity affiliate Intersection. Intersection used a portion of the additional investment to settle, in a non-cash exchange, $19.3 million of the outstanding amount owed to the Company on the $30 million term loan extended in April 2023. In November 2025, the Company invested an additional $28.7 million in Intersection. In December 2025, Intersection repaid the $5.0 million remaining outstanding balance on the term loan. In May 2024, the Company entered into a convertible promissory note agreement to loan N2K Networks $2.0 million. The convertible promissory note bears interest at a rate of 12% per annum and, subject to conversion provisions, all unpaid interest and principal are due by May 2027. During 2023, the Company made additional investments in Intersection and Realm.
Net (Purchases of) Proceeds from Sales of Marketable Equity Securities. The Company purchased $29.8 million, $5.0 million, and $4.6 million of marketable equity securities during 2025, 2024 and 2023, respectively. There were no sales of marketable equity securities during 2025. During 2024 and 2023, the Company sold marketable securities that generated proceeds of $23.5 million and $62.0 million, respectively.
Disposition of Businesses and Investments. In 2025, the Company received proceeds from the sale of a cost method investment. In April 2025, Kaplan completed the sale of a small business, BridgeU Limited, which was included in KI. In 2024 and the first half of 2025, WGB completed the sale of various websites and related businesses that made up the WGB operations. All remaining WGB operations were substantially shut down by the end of the third quarter of 2025. In July 2024, Kaplan completed the sale of a small business, Red Marker, which was included in KI.
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Financing Activities. The Company’s net cash flow used in financing activities were as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In thousands) | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | |||||||
| Distributions paid to noncontrolling interests | $ | (191,895) | $ | (6,116) | $ | (5,306) | ||||
| Net borrowing (payments) under revolving credit facilities | 151,855 | (35,756) | (104,244) | |||||||
| Net (repayments of) proceeds from vehicle floor plan payable | (33,864) | (416) | 73,732 | |||||||
| (Repayments) issuance of borrowings, net | (19,190) | (27,637) | 171,643 | |||||||
| Dividends paid | (31,360) | (30,347) | (30,953) | |||||||
| Common shares repurchased | (3,468) | (114,101) | (193,160) | |||||||
| Other | (37,555) | (26,594) | (11,547) | |||||||
| Net Cash Used in Financing Activities | $ | (165,477) | $ | (240,967) | $ | (99,835) |
Distributions paid to noncontrolling interests. On February 25, 2025, the Company and a group of minority shareholders entered into an agreement to settle a significant portion of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest related to GHC One, including CSI, for a total of $205 million, which consisted of approximately $186.25 million in cash and $18.75 million in Graham Holdings Company Class B common stock.
Borrowings and Vehicle Floor Plan Payable. In 2025, the Company issued $500 million senior unsecured fixed rate notes due December 1, 2033 at a coupon rate of 5.625%. In combination with the issuance of the notes, the Company amended and restated its revolving credit facility to increase the borrowing capacity to $400 million and extend the maturity to November 24, 2030. The Company used the net proceeds from the sale of the notes, together with the borrowings under the revolving credit agreement, to (i) redeem the $400 million of 5.75% notes due June 1, 2026, (ii) refinance outstanding revolving loans under the existing revolving credit facility, and (iii) repay all amounts outstanding under the Company's existing $150 million term loan. Also in 2025, the automotive subsidiary borrowed $38.7 million under the delayed draw term loan to finance the acquisition of a Honda automotive dealership, including the real property for the dealership operations.
In 2024, the Company repaid amounts borrowed under the $300 million revolving credit facility, term loan and commercial notes at the automotive subsidiary.
In September 2023, the Company’s automotive subsidiary entered into a credit agreement with Truist Bank which includes (i) a $75.2 million real estate term loan, (ii) a $65.0 million capital term loan, (iii) a $50.0 million delayed draw term loan, and (iv) establishment of a revolving floor plan credit facility. The automotive subsidiary used the net proceeds from the real estate and capital term loans to acquire an automotive dealership, including the real property for the dealership operations, and to repay the outstanding balances of the commercial notes maturing in 2031 and 2032. On July 28, 2023, the Company entered into a $150 million term loan and used the proceeds to repay the U.S. dollar borrowings of the $300 million revolving credit facility.
In 2025, 2024, and 2023, the Company used vehicle floor plan financing to fund the purchase of new, used and service loaner vehicles at its automotive subsidiary. The (repayments of) proceeds from the vehicle floor plan payable fluctuates with changes in the amount of vehicle inventory held by the automotive dealerships.
Dividends. The annual dividend rate per share was $7.20, $6.88 and $6.60 in 2025, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The Company expects to pay a dividend of $7.52 per share in 2026.
Common Stock Repurchases. During 2025, the Company purchased a total of 3,978 shares of its Class B common stock at a cost of approximately $3.5 million resulting from the net settlement of stock awards upon vesting. During 2024 and 2023, the Company purchased a total of 152,948 and 325,134 shares, respectively, of its Class B common stock at a cost of approximately $115.2 million and $195.0 million, respectively, including commissions and accrued excise tax of $1.1 million and $1.8 million, respectively. On September 12, 2024, the Board of Directors authorized the Company to acquire up to 500,000 shares of its Class B common stock. The Company did not announce a ceiling price or time limit for the purchases. At December 31, 2025, the Company had remaining authorization from the Board of Directors to purchase up to 462,482 shares of Class B common stock.
Other. In 2025, 2024 and 2023, the Company paid $7.0 million, $5.4 million and $5.3 million, respectively, related to contingent consideration and deferred payments from prior acquisitions. In December 2023, the Company acquired some of the minority-owned shares of CSI for a total amount of $20.0 million. The Company paid cash of $5.0 million and entered into a promissory note with the minority owners for the remaining $15.0 million.
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Contractual Obligations. The following reflects a summary of the Company’s contractual obligations as of December 31, 2025:
| (in thousands) | 2026 | 2027 | 2028 | 2029 | 2030 | Thereafter | Total | |||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Debt and interest | $ | 69,505 | $ | 62,526 | $ | 176,196 | $ | 39,500 | $ | 261,018 | $ | 584,375 | $ | 1,193,120 | ||||||||||||
| Finance leases | 17,623 | 4,896 | 2,319 | 80 | 55 | — | 24,973 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Operating leases | 107,454 | 79,378 | 66,239 | 57,225 | 43,532 | 262,631 | 616,459 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Television broadcasting commitments (1) | 50,650 | 19,218 | 10,849 | 544 | 60 | — | 81,321 | |||||||||||||||||||
| IT software and services | 44,680 | 28,738 | 8,888 | 1,431 | 1,292 | — | 85,029 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Other purchase obligations (2) | 29,454 | 4,513 | 4,346 | 1,109 | 1,090 | — | 40,512 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Long-term liabilities (3) | 2,149 | 2,143 | 2,128 | 2,119 | 1,639 | 757 | 10,935 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Total | $ | 321,515 | $ | 201,412 | $ | 270,965 | $ | 102,008 | $ | 308,686 | $ | 847,763 | $ | 2,052,349 |
___________________
| (1) | Includes network fees, employment agreements and programming purchase commitments for the Company’s television broadcasting business. |
|---|---|
| (2) | Includes purchase obligations related to capital projects and other legally binding commitments. Other purchase orders made in the ordinary course of business are excluded from the table above. Any amounts for which the Company is liable under purchase orders are reflected in the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets as accounts payable and accrued liabilities. |
| (3) | Primarily made up of multiemployer pension plan withdrawal obligations and postretirement benefit obligations other than pensions. The Company has other long-term liabilities excluded from the table above, including obligations for deferred compensation, long-term incentive plans, long-term deferred revenue and mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest. |
Other. The Company does not have any off-balance-sheet arrangements or financing activities with special-purpose entities.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and judgments that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements. On an ongoing basis, the Company evaluates its estimates and assumptions. The Company bases its estimates on historical experience and other assumptions believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
An accounting policy is considered critical if it is important to the Company’s financial condition and results and if it requires management’s most difficult, subjective and complex judgments in its application. For a summary of all of the Company’s significant accounting policies, see Note 2 to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements.
Revenue Recognition, Trade Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Credit Losses. Education revenue is primarily derived from postsecondary education services, professional education and test preparation services. Revenue, net of any refunds, corporate discounts, scholarships and employee tuition discounts, is recognized ratably over the instruction period or access period for higher education and supplemental education services.
At KI and Kaplan Supplemental Education, estimates of average student course length are developed for each course, along with estimates for the anticipated level of student drops and refunds from test performance guarantees, and these estimates are evaluated on an ongoing basis and adjusted as necessary. As Kaplan’s businesses and related course offerings have changed, including more online programs, the complexity and significance of management’s estimates have increased.
KHE provides non-academic operations support services to Purdue Global pursuant to a TOSA, which includes technology support, helpdesk functions, human resources support for faculty and employees, admissions support, financial aid administration, advertising, back-office business functions, and certain student recruitment services. KHE is not entitled to receive any reimbursement of costs incurred in providing support services, or any fee, unless and until Purdue Global has first covered all of its academic costs (subject to a cap) and, if applicable, received payment for cost efficiencies. KHE will receive reimbursement for its operating costs of providing the support services after payment of Purdue Global’s operating costs and cost efficiency payments. If there are sufficient revenues, KHE may be entitled to a cost efficiency payment, if any, and an additional fee equal to 12.5% of Purdue Global’s revenue. Subject to certain limitations, a portion of the fee that is earned by KHE in one year may be carried over to subsequent years for payment to Kaplan.
The support fee and reimbursement for KHE support costs are entirely dependent on the availability of cash at the end of Purdue Global’s fiscal year (June 30), and therefore, all consideration in the contract is variable. The Company uses significant judgment to forecast the operating results of Purdue Global, the availability of cash at the end of each fiscal year, and the consideration it expects to receive from Purdue Global annually. Key assumptions used in the forecast model include student census and degree enrollment data, Purdue Global and KHE expenses,
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changes to working capital, contractually stipulated minimum payments, and lead conversion rates. The forecast is updated as uncertainties are resolved. The Company reviews and updates the assumptions regularly, as a significant change in one or more of these estimates could affect the revenue recognized. Changes to the estimated variable consideration were not material for the year ended December 31, 2025.
A KI business has a contract with an examination body through August 2029 comprised of two performance obligations, one to build and create a professional exam and another to manage the delivery of that exam to qualified candidates. The first obligation was completed in 2021. The second obligation began after the first obligation was completed and is expected to continue through the end of the contract term. Revenues are recognized for both of these obligations by allocating the transaction price based on forecasted financial results and the use of a market-based profit margin applied to costs incurred during the financial reporting period. This profit margin, determined at contract inception, is different for each obligation as a result of the different value created by each distinct obligation. The forecast, including key assumptions such as expected candidate volumes and related exam-management expenses, is updated as future uncertainties are resolved, which may result in changes to the transaction price. The Company reviews and updates the assumptions regularly, as a significant change in one or more of these estimates could affect revenue recognized. Changes to the estimated variable consideration were not material for the year ended December 31, 2025.
The determination of whether revenue should be reported on a gross or net basis is based on an assessment of whether the Company acts as a principal or an agent in the transaction. In certain cases, the Company is considered the agent, and the Company records revenue equal to the net amount retained when the fee is earned. In these cases, costs incurred with third-party suppliers are excluded from the Company’s revenue. The Company assesses whether it obtained control of the specified goods or services before they are transferred to the customer as part of this assessment. In addition, the Company considers other indicators such as the party primarily responsible for fulfillment, inventory risk and discretion in establishing price.
Accounts receivable have been reduced by an allowance that reflects the current expected credit losses associated with the receivables. This estimated allowance is based on historical write-offs, current macroeconomic conditions, reasonable and supportable forecasts of future economic conditions and management’s evaluation of the financial condition of the customer. The Company generally considers an account past due or delinquent when a student or customer misses a scheduled payment. The Company writes off accounts receivable balances deemed uncollectible against the allowance for credit losses following the passage of a certain period of time, or generally when the account is turned over for collection to an outside collection agency.
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. The Company has a significant amount of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets that are reviewed at least annually for possible impairment.
| As of December 31 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in millions) | 2025 | 2024 | ||||
| Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets | $ | 1,756.5 | $ | 1,664.4 | ||
| Total assets | 8,395.7 | 7,677.2 | ||||
| Percentage of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets to total assets | 21 | % | 22 | % |
The Company performs its annual goodwill and intangible assets impairment test as of November 30. Goodwill and other intangible assets are reviewed for possible impairment between annual tests if an event occurred or circumstances changed that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of the reporting unit or other intangible assets below its carrying value.
Goodwill
The Company tests its goodwill at the reporting unit level, which is an operating segment or one level below an operating segment. The Company initially performs an assessment of qualitative factors to determine if it is necessary to perform a quantitative goodwill impairment test. The Company quantitatively tests goodwill for impairment if, based on its assessment of the qualitative factors, it determines that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, or if it decides to bypass the qualitative assessment. The quantitative goodwill impairment test compares the estimated fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. An impairment charge is recognized for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value.
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The Company had 25 reporting units as of December 31, 2025. The reporting units with significant goodwill balances as of December 31, 2025, were as follows, representing 92% of the total goodwill of the Company:
| (in millions) | Goodwill | |
|---|---|---|
| Education | ||
| Kaplan international | $ | 614.1 |
| Higher education | 63.2 | |
| Supplemental education | 172.8 | |
| Television broadcasting | 190.8 | |
| CSI | 87.1 | |
| Automotive | 140.8 | |
| Hoover | 128.9 | |
| Framebridge | 60.9 | |
| Total | $ | 1,458.6 |
As of November 30, 2025, in connection with the Company’s annual impairment testing, the Company decided to perform the quantitative goodwill impairment process at all of the reporting units. The Company’s policy requires the performance of a quantitative impairment review of the goodwill at least once every three years. The Company used a discounted cash flow model, and, where appropriate, a market value approach was also utilized to supplement the discounted cash flow model to determine the estimated fair value of its reporting units. The Company made estimates and assumptions regarding future cash flows, discount rates, long-term growth rates and market values to determine each reporting unit’s estimated fair value. The methodology used to estimate the fair value of the Company’s reporting units on November 30, 2025, was consistent with the one used during the 2024 annual goodwill impairment test.
The Company made changes to certain of its assumptions utilized in the discounted cash flow models for 2025 compared with the prior year to take into account changes in the economic environment, regulations and their impact on the Company’s businesses. The key assumptions used by the Company were as follows:
•Expected cash flows underlying the Company’s business plans for the periods 2026 through 2030 were used. The Company used expected cash flows for the periods 2026 through 2031 and 2026 through 2035 for the Framebridge and Hoover reporting units, respectively. The expected cash flows took into account historical growth rates, the effect of the changed economic outlook at the Company’s businesses, industry challenges and an estimate for the possible impact of any applicable regulations.
•Cash flows beyond the forecasted years were projected to grow at a long-term growth rate, which the Company estimated between 1.5% and 3% for each reporting unit.
•The Company used a discount rate of 9% to 25% to risk adjust the cash flow projections in determining the estimated fair value.
The fair value of each of the reporting units exceeded its respective carrying value as of November 30, 2025.
The estimated fair value of the Framebridge reporting unit exceeded its carrying values by a margin of less than 20%. The total goodwill at the Framebridge reporting unit was $60.9 million as of December 31, 2025, or 4% of the total goodwill of the Company. There exists a reasonable possibility that a decrease in the assumed projected cash flows or long-term growth rate, or an increase in the discount rate assumption used in the discounted cash flow model of this reporting unit, could result in a possible impairment charge.
The estimated fair value of the Company’s other reporting units with significant goodwill balances exceeded their respective carrying values by a margin in excess of 40%. It is possible that impairment charges could occur in the future, as changes in market conditions and the inherent variability in projecting future operating performance could result in adverse changes in projections for future operating results or other key assumptions, such as projected revenue, profit margin, capital expenditures or cash flows associated with fair value estimates and could lead to additional future impairments, which could be material.
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
The Company’s intangible assets with an indefinite life are principally from franchise rights, trade names and FCC licenses. The Company initially assesses qualitative factors to determine if it is more likely than not that the fair value of its indefinite-lived intangible assets is less than its carrying value. The Company compares the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset with its carrying value if the qualitative factors indicate it is more likely than not that the fair value of the asset is less than its carrying value or if it decides to bypass the qualitative assessment. The Company records an impairment loss if the carrying value of the indefinite-lived intangible assets exceeds the fair value of the assets for the difference in the values. The Company uses a discounted cash flow model, and, in
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certain cases, a market value approach is also utilized to supplement the discounted cash flow model to determine the estimated fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible assets. The Company makes estimates and assumptions regarding future cash flows, discount rates, long-term growth rates and other market values to determine the estimated fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible assets. The Company’s policy requires the performance of a quantitative impairment review of the indefinite-lived intangible assets at least once every three years.
In conjunction with the Company’s annual impairment review, as a result of underperformance at the CDJR automotive dealership from a continued decline in revenues, the Company recorded an indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment charge of $10.1 million. The Company estimated the fair value of the franchise right by utilizing the excess earnings method under a discounted cash flow model. The carrying value of the CDJR franchise right indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeded its estimated fair value, resulting in an indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment charge. CDJR automotive dealership is included in Automotive.
With the exception of the CDJR franchise right indefinite-lived intangible asset, the fair value of all the indefinite-lived intangible assets exceeded their respective carrying values as of November 30, 2025. The estimated fair values of indefinite-lived intangible assets with a total carrying value of $37.3 million exceeded their carrying value by a margin of less than 10%. There exists a reasonable possibility that impairment charges could occur in the future, as changes in market conditions and the inherent variability in projecting future operating performance could result in adverse changes in projections for future operating results or other key assumptions, such as projected revenue, profit margin, capital expenditures or cash flows associated with fair value estimates and could lead to future impairments, which could be material.
Pension Costs. The Company sponsors a defined benefit pension plan for eligible employees in the U.S. Excluding curtailment gains, settlement gains and special termination benefits, the Company’s net pension credit was $93.0 million, $107.7 million and $111.3 million for 2025, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The Company’s pension benefit obligation and related credits are actuarially determined and are significantly impacted by the Company’s assumptions related to future events, including the discount rate, expected return on plan assets and rate of compensation increases. The Company evaluates these critical assumptions at least annually and, periodically, evaluates other assumptions involving demographic factors, such as retirement age, mortality and turnover, and updates them to reflect its experience and expectations for the future. Actual results in any given year will often differ from actuarial assumptions because of economic and other factors.
The Company assumed a 6.25% expected return on plan assets for 2025, 2024 and 2023. The Company’s actual return on plan assets was 16.9% in 2025, 19.1% in 2024 and 23.2% in 2023. The 10-year and 20-year actual returns on plan assets on an annual basis were 11.2% and 10.0%, respectively.
Accumulated and projected benefit obligations are measured as the present value of future cash payments. The Company discounts those cash payments using the weighted average of market-observed yields for high-quality fixed-income securities with maturities that correspond to the payment of benefits. Lower discount rates increase present values and generally increase subsequent-year pension costs; higher discount rates decrease present values and decrease subsequent-year pension costs. The Company’s discount rate at December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, was 5.6%, 5.8% and 5.2%, respectively, reflecting market interest rates.
Changes in key assumptions for the Company’s pension plan would have had the following effects on the 2025 pension credit, excluding curtailment gains, settlement gains and special termination benefits:
• Expected return on assets – A 1% increase or decrease to the Company’s assumed expected return on plan assets would have increased or decreased the pension credit by approximately $26.8 million.
• Discount rate – A 1% decrease to the Company’s assumed discount rate would have increased the pension credit by approximately $2.5 million. A 1% increase to the Company’s assumed discount rate would have decreased the pension credit by approximately $2.7 million.
The Company’s net pension credit includes an expected return on plan assets component, calculated using the expected return on plan assets assumption applied to a market-related value of plan assets. The market-related value of plan assets is determined using a five-year average market value method, which recognizes realized and unrealized appreciation and depreciation in market values over a five-year period. The value resulting from applying this method is adjusted, if necessary, such that it cannot be less than 80% or more than 120% of the market value of plan assets as of the relevant measurement date. As a result, year-to-year increases or decreases in the market-related value of plan assets impact the return on plan assets component of pension credit for the year.
At the end of each year, differences between the actual return on plan assets and the expected return on plan assets are combined with other differences in actual versus expected experience to form a net unamortized actuarial gain or loss in accumulated other comprehensive income. Only those net actuarial gains or losses in excess of the deferred realized and unrealized appreciation and depreciation are potentially subject to amortization.
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The types of items that generate actuarial gains and losses that may be subject to amortization in net periodic pension (credit) cost include the following:
• Asset returns that are more or less than the expected return on plan assets for the year;
• Actual participant demographic experience different from assumed (retirements, terminations and deaths during the year);
• Actual salary increases different from assumed; and
• Any changes in assumptions that are made to better reflect the anticipated experience of the plan or to reflect current market conditions on the measurement date (discount rate, longevity increases, changes in expected participant behavior and expected return on plan assets).
Amortization of the unrecognized actuarial gain or loss is included as a component of pension credit for a year if the magnitude of the net unamortized gain or loss in accumulated other comprehensive income exceeds 10% of the greater of the benefit obligation or the market-related value of assets (10% corridor). The amortization component is equal to that excess divided by the average remaining service period of active employees expected to receive benefits under the plan. At the end of 2022, the Company had net unamortized actuarial gains in accumulated other comprehensive income subject to amortization outside the 10% corridor, and therefore, an amortized gain of $39.8 million was included in the pension credit for 2023.
During 2023, there were significant pension asset gains partially offset by a decrease in the discount rate that resulted in net unamortized actuarial gains in accumulated other comprehensive income subject to amortization outside the 10% corridor, and therefore, an amortized gain of $37.9 million was included in the pension credit for the first nine and a half months of 2024.
As a result of the irrevocable group annuity purchase, the Company remeasured the accumulated and projected benefit obligations as of October 17, 2024, and recorded a settlement gain. During the first nine and a half months, there were significant pension asset gains offset by the $653.4 million settlement gain following the purchase of the irrevocable group annuity contract that resulted in no net unamortized actuarial gains in accumulated other comprehensive income subject to amortization outside the 10% corridor, and therefore, no amortized gain amount was included in the pension credit for the last two and a half months of 2024. During the last two and a half months of 2024, there was an increase in the discount rate; however, the Company had no net unamortized actuarial gains in accumulated other comprehensive income subject to amortization outside the 10% corridor, and therefore, no amortized gain amount was included in the pension credit for 2025.
During 2025, there were significant pension asset gains partially offset by a decrease in the discount rate; however, the Company currently estimates that there will be no net unamortized actuarial gains in accumulated other comprehensive income subject to amortization outside the 10% corridor, and therefore, no amortized gain amount is included in the estimated pension credit for 2026.
Overall, the Company estimates that it will record a net pension credit of approximately $97.1 million in 2026.
Note 15 to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements provides additional details surrounding pension costs and related assumptions.
Accounting for Income Taxes.
Valuation Allowances
Deferred income taxes arise from temporary differences between the tax and financial statement recognition of assets and liabilities. In evaluating its ability to recover deferred tax assets within the jurisdiction from which they arise, the Company considers all available positive and negative evidence, including scheduled reversals of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, tax planning strategies and recent financial operations. These assumptions require significant judgment about forecasts of future taxable income.
As of December 31, 2025, the Company had state income tax net operating loss carryforwards of $1,318.6 million, which will expire at various future dates. Also at December 31, 2025, the Company had $78.5 million of non-U.S. income tax loss carryforwards, of which $24.5 million may be carried forward indefinitely; $44.3 million of losses that, if unutilized, will expire in varying amounts through 2030; and $9.7 million of losses that, if unutilized, will start to expire after 2030. At December 31, 2025, the Company has established approximately $83.0 million in total valuation allowances, primarily against deferred state tax assets, net of U.S. Federal income taxes, and non-U.S. deferred tax assets, as the Company believes that it is more likely than not that the benefit from certain state and non-U.S. net operating loss carryforwards and other deferred tax assets will not be realized. In most instances, the Company has established valuation allowances against state income tax benefits recognized, without considering
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potentially offsetting deferred tax liabilities established with respect to prepaid pension cost and goodwill. Prepaid pension cost and goodwill have not been considered a source of future taxable income for realizing deferred tax benefits recognized since these temporary differences are not likely to reverse in the foreseeable future. However, certain deferred state tax assets have an indefinite life. As a result, the Company has considered deferred tax liabilities for prepaid pension cost and goodwill as a source of future taxable income for realizing those deferred state tax assets with indefinite lives. The valuation allowances established against state and non-U.S. income tax benefits recorded may increase or decrease within the next 12 months, based on operating results or the market value of investment holdings; as a result, the Company is unable to estimate the potential tax impact, given the uncertain operating and market environment. The Company will be monitoring future operating results and projected future operating results on a quarterly basis to determine whether the valuation allowances provided against state and non-U.S. deferred tax assets should be increased or decreased, as future circumstances warrant.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements. See Note 2 to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of recent accounting pronouncements.
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MD&A history
Prior-year 10-K MD&A spans are extracted from SEC filings with the same bounded parser used for the latest filing. The latest 10-K appears above; prior years are below.
FY 2024 10-K MD&A
SEC filing source: 0000104889-25-000022.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND FINANCIAL CONDITION
This analysis should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and the notes thereto. Refer to Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in the Graham Holdings Company’s 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K for management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to the year ended December 31, 2022.
OVERVIEW
Graham Holdings Company (the Company) is a diversified holding company whose operations include educational services, television broadcasting, manufacturing, healthcare and automotive dealerships. The Company has seven reportable segments and a group of companies that make up Other Businesses. The Company’s business units are diverse and subject to different trends and risks.
Education is the largest operating division of the Company, making up 35% of the Company’s consolidated revenues in 2024. Through its subsidiary Kaplan, Inc., the Company provides extensive worldwide education services for individuals, schools and businesses. The Company has devoted significant resources and attention to this division for many years, given its geographic and product diversity, the investment opportunities and growth prospects during this time, and challenges related to government regulation. Kaplan is organized into the following three operating segments: Kaplan International (KI), Kaplan Higher Education (KHE) and Supplemental Education.
KI reported revenue and operating income growth for 2024 due largely to increases at Pathways, Australia, UK Professional and Singapore. KHE revenue declined due to reduced reimbursable expenses from Purdue University Global (Purdue Global), partially offset by an increase in the fees from Purdue Global and growth in other higher education programs. KHE operating results improved in 2024 due to an increase in the Purdue Global fee recorded, partially offset by an increase in higher education development costs. Supplemental Education revenues declined slightly in 2024, while operating results improved due largely to cost reductions from lower headcount, partially offset by increased employee healthcare and pension expense.
From an operating income standpoint, television broadcasting is the Company’s largest business. The Company’s television broadcasting division reported higher revenues and operating income in 2024, due largely to a significant increase in political advertising revenue from the 2024 election cycle, partially offset by a decline in local advertising revenue. Retransmission revenues, net of network fee expense, trended down modestly in 2024 with this trend expected to continue in the future due largely to adverse subscriber trends from cord cutting. In recent years, the television broadcasting division has consistently generated significantly higher operating income amounts and operating income margins than the education division and the Company’s other reporting segments.
The Company’s manufacturing division has provided meaningful operating cash flow over the last few years, although revenues and operating results at Hoover and Dekko have been adversely impacted by lower product demand. Graham Healthcare Group (GHG) has grown substantially over the last few years and provided meaningful operating cash flow from internal growth and acquisitions. In recent years, GHG has expanded from its home health and hospice operations into new lines of business. The largest of these is CSI Pharmacy Holding Company, LLC (CSI), which provides nursing care and prescription services for patients receiving in-home infusion treatments. CSI reported significant revenue growth and substantially higher operating results in 2024 from an expansion of infusion treatment offerings and patient service areas in 2024. Automotive revenues grew in 2024 due largely to the Toyota of Richmond acquisition, while operating results declined modestly.
The Company’s other businesses include several investment stage businesses as well as investments into new lines of business over the last few years. In total, there are eleven operating business units that make up this group in three categories: retail, media and specialty. The largest of these businesses from a revenue standpoint is Clyde’s Restaurant Group (CRG), followed by the combined three former Leaf businesses, and then Framebridge, a custom framing service company. In 2024, CRG and Slate each reported positive operating income, while the other businesses each reported operating losses, which were significant at the combined three former Leaf businesses and Framebridge.
The Company generates a significant amount of cash from its businesses that is used to support its operations, pay down debt and fund capital expenditures, share repurchases, dividends, acquisitions and other investments.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Net income attributable to common shares was $724.6 million ($163.40 per share) for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to $205.3 million ($43.82 per share) for the year ended December 31, 2023.
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Items included in the Company’s net income for 2024 are listed below:
•$49.8 million in goodwill and other long-lived asset impairment charges (after-tax impact of $39.4 million, or $8.89 per share);
•a $653.4 million fourth quarter settlement gain related to a retiree annuity pension purchase (after-tax impact of $486.1 million, or $109.62 per share);
•$21.0 million in non-operating expenses related to a Voluntary Retirement Incentive Program (VRIP) at the television broadcasting division and the corporate office, and Separation Incentive Programs (SIPs) at Kaplan, manufacturing and other businesses (after-tax impact of $15.6 million, or $3.52 per share);
•$119.3 million in interest expense to adjust the fair value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest (after-tax impact of $113.7 million, or $25.65 per share);
•$181.3 million in net gains on marketable equity securities (after-tax impact of $134.9 million, or $30.41 per share);
•$3.5 million in net losses of affiliates whose operations are not managed by the Company (after-tax impact of $2.6 million, or $0.59 per share);
•a non-operating gain of $7.2 million from the sale of certain businesses and websites (after-tax impact of $5.3 million, or $1.19 per share); and
•a net non-operating loss of $16.7 million from the impairments and valuation adjustments of equity and cost method investments (after-tax impact of $12.4 million, or $2.80 per share).
Items included in the Company’s net income for 2023 are listed below:
•a $7.0 million net credit related to fair value changes in contingent consideration from prior acquisitions (after-tax impact of $6.5 million, or $1.38 per share);
•$99.1 million in goodwill and other long-lived asset impairment charges (after-tax impact of $88.9 million, or $18.97 per share);
•$9.9 million in expenses related to non-operating SIPs at other businesses and the education and television broadcasting divisions (after-tax impact of $7.3 million, or $1.57 per share);
•$138.1 million in net gains on marketable equity securities (after-tax impact of $102.7 million, or $21.93 per share);
•$16.0 million in net losses of affiliates whose operations are not managed by the Company (after-tax impact of $11.9 million, or $2.53 per share);
•a non-operating gain of $10.0 million on the sale of Pinna (after-tax impact of $7.4 million, or $1.59 per share);
•non-operating gains, net, of $3.4 million from write-ups, sales and impairments of cost method investments (after-tax impact of $2.5 million, or $0.54 per share);
•a $4.6 million credit to interest expense resulting from gains realized related to the termination of interest rate swaps (after-tax impact of $3.3 million, or $0.72 per share); and
•$10.1 million in interest expense to adjust the fair value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest (after-tax impact of $9.6 million, or $2.05 per share).
Revenue for 2024 was $4,790.9 million, up 9% from $4,414.9 million in 2023. Revenues increased at education, television broadcasting, healthcare and automotive, partially offset by declines at manufacturing and other businesses. Operating costs and expenses for the year increased to $4,575.4 million in 2024, from $4,345.5 million in 2023. Expenses in 2024 increased at education, healthcare and automotive, partially offset by a decrease at television broadcasting, manufacturing and other businesses. The Company reported operating income for 2024 of $215.5 million, compared to $69.4 million in 2023. Excluding goodwill and other long-lived asset impairment charges, the improvement in operating results is due to increases at education, television broadcasting and healthcare, partially offset by declines at manufacturing and automotive.
Division Results
Education
Education division revenue in 2024 totaled $1,691.8 million, up 7% from $1,587.6 million in 2023. Kaplan reported operating income of $100.8 million for 2024, a decrease from $104.5 million in 2023. Excluding long-lived asset impairment charges, operating results improved significantly in 2024.
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A summary of Kaplan’s operating results is as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2024 | 2023 | % Change | ||||||
| Revenue | |||||||||
| Kaplan international | $ | 1,074,207 | $ | 966,879 | 11 | ||||
| Higher education | 324,815 | 326,961 | (1) | ||||||
| Supplemental education | 291,630 | 292,776 | 0 | ||||||
| Kaplan corporate and other | 5,761 | 11,012 | (48) | ||||||
| Intersegment elimination | (4,635) | (10,047) | — | ||||||
| $ | 1,691,778 | $ | 1,587,581 | 7 | |||||
| Operating Income (Loss) | |||||||||
| Kaplan international | $ | 101,699 | $ | 87,530 | 16 | ||||
| Higher education | 40,750 | 38,942 | 5 | ||||||
| Supplemental education | 26,934 | 22,472 | 20 | ||||||
| Kaplan corporate and other | (35,148) | (29,891) | (18) | ||||||
| Amortization of intangible assets | (10,487) | (14,076) | 25 | ||||||
| Impairment of long-lived assets | (22,930) | (477) | — | ||||||
| Intersegment elimination | 11 | (29) | — | ||||||
| $ | 100,829 | $ | 104,471 | (3) |
Kaplan International includes postsecondary education, professional training and language training businesses largely outside the United States. Kaplan International revenue increased 11% in 2024 (9% on a constant currency basis). The increase in 2024 is due largely to growth at Pathways, Australia, UK Professional and Singapore. Kaplan International reported operating income of $101.7 million in 2024, compared to $87.5 million in 2023. The increase is due largely to improved results at Australia, UK Professional, Pathways and Singapore, partially offset by a decline at Languages and increased incentive compensation costs. In the fourth quarter of 2024, revenue and operating results were down at Australia due to lower new student enrollments at Kaplan Business School resulting from changes in student visa policies.
Higher Education includes the results of Kaplan as a service provider to higher education institutions. Higher Education revenue decreased 1% in 2024 due to reduced reimbursable expenses from Purdue Global, partially offset by an increase in the fees from Purdue Global and growth in other higher education programs. Enrollments at Purdue Global, the largest institutional client, increased 5% for 2024 compared with the end of 2023. In 2024 and 2023, Kaplan recorded a portion of the fee with Purdue Global. The Company will continue to assess the fee it records from Purdue Global on a quarterly basis to make a determination as to whether to record all or part of the fee in the future and whether to make adjustments to fee amounts recognized in earlier periods. During 2024 and 2023, Kaplan recorded $54.5 million and $50.3 million, respectively, in fees from Purdue Global in its Higher Education operating results. Higher Education results improved in 2024 due to an increase in the Purdue Global fee recorded, partially offset by an increase in higher education development costs.
Supplemental Education includes Kaplan’s standardized test preparation programs and domestic professional and other continuing education businesses. Supplemental Education revenue declined slightly in 2024, driven mostly by softness in Medical Licensure test preparation, wealth management and Real Estate, offset in part by growth in Insurance, CFA, Legal assessment services, Architecture and Engineering and MCAT test preparation. Operating results improved in 2024 due largely to cost reductions from lower headcount, partially offset by increased employee healthcare and pension expense.
In 2024, Kaplan offered SIPs to certain employees, primarily at Supplemental Education; $2.8 million in related non-operating pension expense was recorded.
Kaplan corporate and other represents unallocated expenses of Kaplan, Inc.’s corporate office, other minor businesses and certain shared activities. Overall, Kaplan corporate and other expenses increased in 2024 due to increased employee benefit and incentive compensation costs.
In the fourth quarter of 2024, Kaplan recorded an intangible asset impairment charge of $22.9 million related to Mander Portman Woodward (MPW), which is part of Kaplan International.
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Television Broadcasting
A summary of television broadcasting’s operating results is as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2024 | 2023 | % Change | ||||||||||||
| Revenue | $ | 535,678 | $ | 472,436 | 13 | ||||||||||
| Operating Income | 201,165 | 133,938 | 50 |
Graham Media Group, Inc. (GMG) owns seven television stations located in Houston, TX; Detroit, MI; Orlando, FL; San Antonio, TX; Jacksonville, FL; and Roanoke, VA, as well as SocialNewsDesk, a provider of social media management tools designed to connect newsrooms with their users. Revenue at the television broadcasting division increased 13% to $535.7 million in 2024, from $472.4 million in 2023. The revenue increase is due to a $90.5 million increase in political advertising revenue, increases from summer Olympics-related advertising revenue at the Company’s NBC stations and an increase in digital advertising revenue, partially offset by a decline in local advertising revenue due to lower demand and fewer available advertising spots, and an $8.0 million decrease in retransmission revenues. Operating income for 2024 was up 50% to $201.2 million, from $133.9 million in 2023, due to higher revenues, cost reductions from lower headcount, and lower network fees; partially offset by increased pension expense. While per subscriber rates from cable, satellite and OTT providers have grown, overall cable and satellite subscribers are down due to cord cutting, resulting in retransmission revenue net of network fees in 2024 to decline modestly compared with 2023, and this trend is expected to continue in the future. Operating margin at the television broadcasting division was 38% in 2024 and 28% in 2023.
In the second quarter of 2024, GMG offered a VRIP to certain employees; $14.3 million in related non-operating pension expense was recorded.
GMG’s media hubs continued to strengthen their position as top contenders for local news in their respective markets. In traditional broadcasting, KSAT in San Antonio and WJXT in Jacksonville led their respective markets with top-rated newscasts at 6 am, 6 pm, and late evening, particularly excelling in the important 25-54 audience segment. Throughout 2024, KPRC in Houston ranked solidly in second place for evening news, led late news broadcasts, and finished third in the mornings. WDIV in Detroit dominated the 6 pm and 11 pm slots, while securing second place at 6 am. WKMG in Orlando posted strong results at 6 am, ranking second, while its 11 pm newscast placed third and its 6 pm broadcast came in fourth. In Roanoke, WSLS finished third in the 6 am, 6 pm, and 11 pm timeslots. On the digital side, GMG’s streaming platforms saw consistent growth in live stream viewership and total hours watched, while Insider membership registrations continued to climb. GMG’s local media websites also retained their positions as the leading digital platforms in their markets.
Manufacturing
A summary of manufacturing’s operating results is as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2024 | 2023 | % Change | ||||||||||||
| Revenue | $ | 395,642 | $ | 447,910 | (12) | ||||||||||
| Operating (Loss) Income | 18,370 | (16,793) | — |
Manufacturing includes four businesses: Hoover, a supplier of pressure impregnated kiln-dried lumber and plywood products for fire retardant and preservative applications; Dekko, a manufacturer of electrical workspace solutions, architectural lighting and electrical components and assemblies; Joyce/Dayton, a manufacturer of screw jacks and other linear motion systems; and Forney, a global supplier of products and systems that control and monitor combustion processes in electric utility and industrial applications.
Manufacturing revenues decreased 12% in 2024 due to lower revenues at Hoover, Dekko and Joyce, partially offset by increased revenues at Forney. The revenue decline at Hoover is due largely to a decrease in overall product demand, particularly for multi-family housing. Revenues declined at Dekko due to lower product demand. Overall, Hoover results included wood gains on inventory sales in 2024 and 2023, with gains in 2024 much lower than the prior year. Manufacturing operating results improved in 2024 due to a $47.8 million goodwill impairment charge at Dekko in 2023. Excluding the impairment charge at Dekko, manufacturing results were down in 2024, due to significant declines at Hoover and Dekko, along with declines at Joyce and Forney.
In the third and fourth quarters of 2024, Dekko offered SIPs to certain employees; $0.2 million in related non-operating pension expense was recorded.
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Healthcare
A summary of healthcare’s operating results is as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2024 | 2023 | % Change | ||||||||||||
| Revenue | $ | 611,109 | $ | 459,481 | 33 | ||||||||||
| Operating Income | 50,885 | 23,845 | — |
GHG provides home health and hospice services in seven states. GHG also provides nursing care and prescription services for patients receiving in-home infusion treatments through its 87.5% interest in CSI, and other healthcare services through Clarus (provides call management SaaS-based solution for physician groups and hospitals), Impact Medical (an Allergy, Asthma and Immunology physician practice), Skin Clique (a concierge provider of aesthetics products and services) and Surpass Behavioral Health (provides therapy for autism patients). Healthcare revenues increased 33% in 2024, largely due to significant growth at CSI from an expansion of infusion treatment offerings and patient service areas; revenues also grew in home health and hospice services and at the other healthcare businesses.
The increase in GHG operating results in 2024 is due to substantially higher earnings at CSI from significant revenue growth, along with improved results in home health and at Surpass Behavioral Health, partly offset by increased pension expense. In January 2022, GHG implemented a pension credit retention program offering a pension credit up to $50,000 per employee, cliff vested after three years of continuous employment for certain existing employees and new employees. Effective April 1, 2024, this program is no longer being offered to new employees.
The Company also holds interests in four home health and hospice joint ventures managed by GHG, whose results are included in equity in earnings of affiliates in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. In 2024 and 2023, the Company recorded equity in earnings of $13.7 million and $9.9 million, respectively, from these joint ventures.
Automotive
A summary of automotive’s operating results is as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2024 | 2023 | % Change | ||||||||||||
| Revenue | $ | 1,200,477 | $ | 1,079,893 | 11 | ||||||||||
| Operating Income | 38,015 | 39,258 | (3) |
Automotive includes eight automotive dealerships in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area and Richmond, VA: Ourisman Lexus of Rockville, Ourisman Honda of Tysons Corner, Ourisman Jeep Bethesda, Ourisman Ford of Manassas, Toyota of Woodbridge, Ourisman Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep-Ram (CDJR) of Woodbridge and Ourisman Toyota of Richmond, which was acquired on September 27, 2023. The automotive group was awarded a Kia Open Point dealership in Bethesda, MD which commenced operations at the end of December 2023. Christopher J. Ourisman, a member of the Ourisman Automotive Group family of dealerships, and his team of industry professionals operates and manages the dealerships; the Company holds a 90% stake.
Revenues for 2024 increased 11% due to the Toyota of Richmond acquisition and the addition of the Kia dealership, as well as sales growth for services and parts, partially offset by a decline in new and used vehicle sales and a decline in sales of finance and insurance products offerings. Operating results for 2024 declined modestly due to lower sales and overall gross margins on new vehicles, a decline in finance and insurance product sales, and lower overall gross profit on used vehicles; partially offset by earnings from the Toyota of Richmond acquisition and higher overall gross profit on services and parts.
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Other Businesses
A summary of revenue by category for other businesses:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2024 | 2023 | % Change | ||||||
| Operating Revenues | |||||||||
| Retail (1) | $ | 110,286 | $ | 124,323 | (11) | ||||
| Media (2) | 92,583 | 106,236 | (13) | ||||||
| Specialty (3) | 153,651 | 139,094 | 10 | ||||||
| $ | 356,520 | $ | 369,653 | (4) |
____________
| (1) | Includes Society6 and Saatchi Art (formerly Leaf Marketplace) and Framebridge |
|---|---|
| (2) | Includes World of Good Brands (WGB) (formerly Leaf Media), Code3, Slate, Foreign Policy, Pinna and City Cast |
| (3) | Includes CRG, Decile and Supporting Cast |
Overall, revenue from other businesses declined 4% in 2024. Retail revenue declined largely due to significantly lower revenue at Society6, partially offset by revenue growth at Framebridge and Saatchi Art. Media revenue declined due to lower revenue at WGB, Code3 and Foreign Policy, partially offset by revenue growth at Slate and City Cast. Specialty revenue increased due to revenue growth at CRG, Decile and Supporting Cast. Excluding the former Leaf businesses, revenues from other businesses increased in 2024.
Overall, operating results at other businesses improved in 2024 due largely to $26.3 million in goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges at WGB in 2024 compared to $50.2 million in goodwill impairment charges at WGB in 2023. Excluding these impairment charges and increased pension expense, operating losses in 2024 were modestly lower than the prior year.
Leaf Group
On June 14, 2021, the Company acquired Leaf Group Ltd. (Leaf), a consumer internet company, headquartered in Santa Monica, CA, that builds enduring, creator-driven brands that reach passionate audiences in large and growing lifestyle categories, including fitness and wellness (Well+Good and Livestrong.com), and home, art and design (Saatchi Art and Society6).
In the second quarter of 2023, the Company restructured Leaf into three stand-alone businesses: Society6 (formerly included in Leaf Marketplace), Saatchi Art (formerly included in Leaf Marketplace) and WGB (formerly Leaf Media). The transition process for this restructuring has involved various cost reduction initiatives, including elimination of shared services costs and functions; transitioning financial and human resources systems; and rationalizing physical facilities and data centers. In the first and second quarters of 2023, Leaf offered a SIP to reduce the number of employees; $2.9 million and $3.9 million in related non-operating pension expense was recorded in the first and second quarters of 2023, respectively. Each of Society6, Saatchi Art and WGB has continued with the transition and cost reduction process, which was largely complete at the end of the second quarter of 2024. In the third quarter of 2024, the Company offered an additional SIP at Society6, Saatchi Art and WGB; $0.5 million in related non-operating pension expense was recorded. In the fourth quarter of 2024, the Company offered an additional SIP at WGB; $0.2 million in related non-operating pension expense was recorded.
Revenues at Society6 and WGB declined substantially in 2024. Revenue declines at Society6 are due to declines in traffic, largely driven by a significant decrease in advertising spend, as well as softer demand in the home decor category. Revenue declines at WGB are due to reduced traffic and the soft digital advertising market for programmatic. Revenues at Saatchi Art grew in 2024. Overall, the former Leaf businesses reported significant operating losses for 2024 and 2023.
As a result of the substantial digital advertising revenue declines and continued significant operating losses at WGB, the Company recorded a $50.2 million goodwill impairment charge in the third quarter of 2023. In the second quarter of 2024, the Company recorded an additional $26.3 million in goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges at WGB. Excluding these impairment charges, losses were down modestly in 2024.
Clyde’s Restaurant Group
CRG owns and operates 14 restaurants and entertainment venues in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, including Old Ebbitt Grill and The Hamilton. In July 2024, CRG opened Rye Street Tavern, a new restaurant in Baltimore, MD. In November 2024, CRG opened Cordelia Fishbar, a new restaurant in Washington, D.C. Revenue increased in 2024 due to the new restaurant openings and modest price increases. CRG reported an operating profit in 2024 and 2023. Overall, operating results declined in 2024; excluding pre-opening expenses incurred for new restaurants, operating results improved.
CRG plans to open a new restaurant in Reston, VA in 2026.
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Framebridge
Framebridge is a custom framing service company, headquartered in Washington, D.C., with 32 retail locations and two manufacturing facilities in Kentucky and Virginia. Framebridge opened 10 new stores in 2024 and continues to actively explore opportunities for further store expansion. Revenues increased in 2024 due to an increase in retail revenue from same-store sales growth and operating additional retail stores compared to 2023, as well as higher online revenues, particularly during the holiday season. Framebridge is an investment stage business and reported significant operating losses in 2024 and 2023. Excluding increased pension expense, operating losses at Framebridge in 2024 were similar to losses in 2023.
In the first and second quarters of 2024, Framebridge offered a SIP; $1.4 million in related non-operating pension expense was recorded.
Other
Other businesses also include Code3, a performance marketing agency focused on driving performance for brands through three core elements of digital success: media, creative and commerce; Slate and Foreign Policy, which publish online and print magazines and websites; and three investment stage businesses, Decile, City Cast and Supporting Cast. Slate, City Cast, Supporting Cast and Decile reported revenue growth in 2024, while Code3 and Foreign Policy reported a revenue decline. Losses from City Cast, Decile, Code3, Supporting Cast and Foreign Policy in 2024 adversely affected operating results, while Slate reported an operating profit. Operating results in 2024 improved at Code3, with declines at Foreign Policy and increased losses at City Cast.
Other businesses also included Pinna, which was sold in June 2023 when the Company entered into a merger agreement with Realm of Possibility, Inc. (Realm), a provider of audio entertainment services, to merge Pinna with Realm in return for a noncontrolling financial interest in the merged entity. In connection with the merger, the Company recorded a $10.0 million non-cash, non-operating gain related to the transaction. The Company’s investment in Realm is reported as an equity method investment.
In 2024, the Company offered SIPs to certain employees at Code3, Decile and Slate to reduce the number of employees; $1.1 million in related non-operating pension expense was recorded.
In the first and second quarters of 2023, Code3 offered a SIP to reduce the number of employees; $1.9 million in related non-operating pension expense was recorded.
Corporate Office
Corporate office includes the expenses of the Company’s corporate office, certain continuing obligations related to prior business dispositions, and a net credit recorded in 2023 from fair value changes in contingent consideration related to the Framebridge acquisition.
Employee Benefit Plan Changes
Effective January 1, 2024, the Company’s defined benefit pension plan was amended to provide many of the current employees who are current plan participants with an increased pension benefit, and to provide certain current employees from several business units with a new pension benefit offering. The increased and new pension benefits are funded by the assets of the Company’s pension plan. As a result of these changes, the Company’s matching contribution to certain of its 401(k) Savings Plans was eliminated.
Equity in Losses of Affiliates
At December 31, 2024, the Company held an approximate 18% interest in Intersection Holdings, LLC (Intersection), a company that provides digital marketing and advertising services and products for cities, transit systems, airports, and other public and private spaces; and a 41.4% interest in Realm on a fully diluted basis. The Company also holds interests in several other affiliates, including a number of home health and hospice joint ventures managed by GHG and two joint ventures managed by Kaplan. Overall, the Company recorded equity in losses of affiliates of $3.3 million for 2024, compared to $5.2 million for 2023. These amounts include $3.5 million and $16.0 million in net losses for 2024 and 2023, respectively, from affiliates whose operations are not managed by the Company. The 2024 amount also includes a $14.4 million impairment loss on the Company’s investment in N2K Networks.
Net Interest Expense and Related Balances
The Company incurred net interest expense of $176.3 million in 2024, compared to $56.2 million in 2023. The Company recorded net interest expense of $119.3 million and $10.1 million in 2024 and 2023, respectively, to adjust the fair value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest at GHG. The significant adjustment recorded in 2024 is largely related to a substantial increase in the estimated fair value of CSI.
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In September 2023, the automotive subsidiary of the Company entered into a credit agreement with Truist Bank to finance the acquisition of the Toyota of Richmond dealership and to repay the outstanding balance of the automotive subsidiary commercial notes that were maturing in 2031 and 2032. The related interest rate swaps were also terminated, resulting in a realized gain of $4.6 million recorded as a credit to interest expense during the third quarter of 2023.
Excluding these adjustments, the increase in net interest expense relates primarily to higher average debt balances, higher interest rates on the Company’s variable debt, and increased floor plan interest expense.
At December 31, 2024, the Company had $748.2 million in borrowings outstanding at an average interest rate of 6.0%, and cash, marketable equity securities and other investments of $1,156.6 million. At December 31, 2024, the Company had $62.8 million outstanding on its $300 million revolving credit facility. At December 31, 2023, the Company had $811.8 million in borrowings outstanding at an average interest rate of 6.4%, and cash, marketable equity securities and other investments of $898.9 million.
Non-Operating Pension and Postretirement Benefit Income, Net
The Company recorded net non-operating pension and postretirement benefit income of $794.9 million in 2024, compared to $133.8 million in 2023.
In the fourth quarter of 2024, the Company recorded a pre-tax, noncash settlement gain of $653.4 million in connection with the purchase of an irrevocable group annuity contract from an insurance company.
Also in the fourth quarter of 2024, the Company recorded $0.5 million in expenses related to non-operating SIPs at Kaplan, manufacturing and other businesses. In the third quarter of 2024, the Company recorded $3.7 million in expenses related to non-operating SIPs at Kaplan, manufacturing and other businesses. In the second quarter of 2024, the Company recorded $14.8 million in expenses related to a VRIP at the television broadcasting division and the corporate office and $1.6 million in expenses related to non-operating SIPs at other businesses. In the first quarter of 2024, the Company recorded $0.4 million in expenses related to a non-operating SIP at other businesses. The SIPs and VRIP were funded by the assets of the Company’s pension plan.
In the fourth quarter of 2023, the Company recorded $0.2 million in expenses related to a non-operating SIP at the television broadcasting division. In the second quarter of 2023, the Company recorded $5.5 million in expenses related to non-operating SIPs at other businesses and the education and television broadcasting divisions. In the first quarter of 2023, the Company recorded $4.1 million in expenses related to non-operating SIPs at other businesses. The SIPs were funded by the assets of the Company’s pension plan.
Gain on Marketable Equity Securities, Net
The Company recognized $181.3 million in net gains on marketable equity securities in 2024 compared to $138.1 million in 2023.
Other Non-Operating Income
The Company recorded total other non-operating income, net, of $12.5 million in 2024, compared to $19.1 million in 2023. The 2024 amounts included gains of $7.2 million on the sales of certain businesses and websites; $5.4 million in foreign currency gains; $0.9 million in gains related to the sale of businesses and contingent consideration, and other items; partially offset by $1.5 million in net fair value decreases on cost method investments and $0.7 million impairment on cost method investments. The 2023 amounts included a non-cash gain of $10.0 million on the sale of Pinna; $5.6 million in gains related to sales of businesses and contingent consideration; a $3.1 million increase in the fair value of cost method investments; a $1.0 million gain on sales of cost method investments, and other items; partially offset by $1.1 million in foreign currency losses and a $0.5 million impairment on a cost method investment.
Provision for Income Taxes
The Company’s effective tax rates for 2024 and 2023 were 28.5% and 29.2%, respectively. The Company’s effective tax rates in 2024 and 2023 were unfavorably impacted by permanent differences related to the goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges and the interest expense recorded to adjust the fair value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest at GHG. Excluding the impact of these items, the overall income tax rates for 2024 and 2023 were 25.8% and 24.0%, respectively.
Earnings Per Share
The calculation of diluted earnings per share for the 2024 was based on 4,404,807 weighted average shares outstanding, compared to 4,653,626 for 2023. At December 31, 2024, there were 4,332,307 shares outstanding.
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FINANCIAL CONDITION: LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The Company considers the following when assessing its liquidity and capital resources:
| As of December 31 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In thousands) | 2024 | 2023 | ||||
| Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 260,852 | $ | 169,897 | ||
| Restricted cash | 37,001 | 31,994 | ||||
| Investments in marketable equity securities and other investments | 858,743 | 697,028 | ||||
| Total debt | 748,192 | 811,833 |
Cash generated by operations is the Company’s primary source of liquidity. The Company maintains investments in a portfolio of marketable equity securities, which is considered when assessing the Company’s sources of liquidity. An additional source of liquidity includes the undrawn portion of the Company’s $300 million revolving credit facility, amounting to $237.2 million at December 31, 2024 and the undrawn $50.0 million delayed draw term loan at the automotive subsidiary.
During 2024, the Company’s cash and cash equivalents increased by $91.0 million, due to cash generated from operations and the net proceeds from the sale and purchase of marketable equity securities, which were partially offset by share repurchases, payment of borrowings, capital expenditures and dividend payments. In 2024, the Company’s borrowings decreased by $63.6 million, primarily due to repayments under the revolving credit facility, term loan and commercial notes at the automotive subsidiary.
As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the Company had money market investments of $3.9 million and $5.6 million, respectively, that were included in cash and cash equivalents. At December 31, 2024, the Company held approximately $170 million in cash and cash equivalents in businesses domiciled outside the U.S., of which approximately $8 million is not available for immediate use in operations or for distribution. Additionally, Kaplan’s business operations outside the U.S. retain cash balances to support ongoing working capital requirements, capital expenditures, and regulatory requirements. As a result, the Company considers a significant portion of the cash and cash equivalents balance held outside the U.S. as not readily available for use in U.S. operations.
At December 31, 2024, the fair value of the Company’s investments in marketable equity securities was $852.4 million, which includes investments in the common stock of four publicly traded companies. The Company purchased $5.0 million of marketable equity securities during 2024 and sold marketable equity securities that generated proceeds of $23.5 million. At December 31, 2024, the net unrealized gain related to the Company’s investments totaled $625.3 million.
In May 2024, the Company entered into a convertible promissory note agreement to loan N2K Networks $2.0 million. The convertible promissory note bears interest at a rate of 12% per annum and, subject to conversion provisions, all unpaid interest and principal are due by May 2027.
In April 2023, the Company entered into a term note agreement to loan Intersection $30.0 million at an interest rate of 9% per annum. The principal and interest on the note are payable in monthly installments over five years with the final payment due by May 2028. The outstanding balance on this loan was $25.7 million as of December 31, 2024.
The Company had working capital of $898.8 million and $619.6 million at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The Company maintains working capital levels consistent with its underlying business requirements and consistently generates cash from operations in excess of required interest or principal payments.
At December 31, 2024 and 2023, the Company had borrowings outstanding of $748.2 million and $811.8 million, respectively. The Company’s borrowings at December 31, 2024 were mostly from $400.0 million of 5.75% unsecured notes due June 1, 2026, $62.8 million in outstanding borrowings under the Company’s revolving credit facility, a term loan of $140.1 million, and real estate and capital term loans of $127.6 million at the automotive subsidiary. The Company’s borrowings at December 31, 2023 were mostly from $400.0 million of 5.75% unsecured notes due June 1, 2026, $97.9 million in outstanding borrowings under the Company’s revolving credit facility, a term loan of $147.5 million, and real estate and capital term loans of $137.6 million at the automotive subsidiary. The interest on the $400.0 million of 5.75% unsecured notes is payable semi-annually on June 1 and December 1.
During 2024 and 2023, the Company had average borrowings outstanding of approximately $804.7 million and $745.0 million, respectively, at average annual interest rates of approximately 6.3% and 6.1%, respectively. The Company incurred net interest expense of $176.3 million and $56.2 million, respectively, during 2024 and 2023. Included in the 2024 and 2023 interest expense is $119.3 million and $10.1 million, respectively, to adjust the fair value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest (see Note 11).
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On September 26, 2023, the Company’s automotive subsidiary entered into a credit agreement with Truist Bank to finance the acquisition of the Toyota of Richmond dealership and to repay the outstanding balances of the commercial notes maturing in 2031 and 2032. The related interest rate swap agreements maturing in 2031 and 2032 were also terminated resulting in realized gains of $4.6 million that reduced interest expense during the third quarter of 2023.
On December 20, 2024, Moody’s affirmed the Company’s credit rating and maintained the outlook as Stable. On April 2, 2024, Standard & Poor’s affirmed the Company’s credit rating and maintained the outlook as Stable.
The Company’s current credit ratings are as follows:
| Moody’s | Standard & Poor’s | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Long-term | Ba1 | BB | |
| Outlook | Stable | Stable |
The Company expects to fund its estimated capital needs primarily through existing cash balances and internally generated funds, and, as needed, from borrowings under its revolving credit facility. As of December 31, 2024, the Company had $62.8 million outstanding under the $300 million revolving credit facility. In management’s opinion, the Company will have sufficient financial resources to meet its business requirements in the next 12 months, including working capital requirements, capital expenditures, interest payments, potential acquisitions and strategic investments, dividends and stock repurchases.
In summary, the Company’s cash flows for each period were as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In thousands) | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
| Net cash provided by operating activities | $ | 406,988 | $ | 259,875 | $ | 235,604 | ||||
| Net cash used in investing activities | (62,330) | (152,975) | (184,066) | |||||||
| Net cash used in financing activities | (240,967) | (99,835) | (18,107) | |||||||
| Effect of currency exchange rate change | (7,729) | 4,394 | (1,842) | |||||||
| Net increase in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash | $ | 95,962 | $ | 11,459 | $ | 31,589 |
Operating Activities. Cash provided by operating activities is net income adjusted for certain non-cash items and changes in assets and liabilities. The Company’s net cash flow provided by operating activities were as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In thousands) | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
| Net Income | $ | 732,610 | $ | 211,704 | $ | 70,434 | ||||
| Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: | ||||||||||
| Depreciation, amortization and goodwill and other long-lived asset impairments | 173,987 | 235,169 | 261,138 | |||||||
| Amortization of lease right-of-use asset | 63,253 | 67,734 | 67,568 | |||||||
| Net pension benefit, settlement gain and early retirement and separation program costs | (740,152) | (101,398) | (166,611) | |||||||
| Other non-cash activities | 65,949 | (84,399) | 130,230 | |||||||
| Change in operating assets and liabilities | 111,341 | (68,935) | (127,155) | |||||||
| Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities | $ | 406,988 | $ | 259,875 | $ | 235,604 |
Net cash provided by operating activities consists primarily of cash receipts from customers, less disbursements for costs, benefits, income taxes, interest and other expenses.
For 2024 compared to 2023, the increase in net cash provided by operating activities is primarily due to changes in operating assets and liabilities, partially offset by lower net income, net of non-cash adjustments. Changes in operating assets and liabilities were driven by a significant increase in the value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest and lower purchases of inventory. The change in non-cash activities is largely the result of a significant increase in the provision for deferred income taxes, partially offset by fluctuations in the share prices of the Company’s investments in marketable equity securities with larger gains in 2024 compared to 2023.
For 2023 compared to 2022, the increase in net cash provided by operating activities is primarily due to changes in operating assets and liabilities, partially offset by lower net income, net of non-cash adjustments. Changes in operating assets and liabilities were primarily driven by increases in accounts payable and accrued liabilities. The change in non-cash activities is largely the result of fluctuations in the share prices of the Company’s investments in marketable equity securities with gains in 2023 compared to losses in 2022.
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Investing Activities. The Company’s net cash flow used in investing activities were as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In thousands) | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
| Purchases of property, plant and equipment | $ | (82,912) | $ | (93,447) | $ | (82,684) | ||||
| Net proceeds from sales of marketable equity securities | 18,524 | 55,817 | 61,522 | |||||||
| Investments in equity affiliates, cost method and other investments | (4,554) | (14,050) | (38,894) | |||||||
| Investments in certain businesses, net of cash acquired | (4,118) | (78,149) | (130,106) | |||||||
| Loan to related party | (2,000) | (30,000) | — | |||||||
| Other | 12,730 | 6,854 | 6,096 | |||||||
| Net Cash Used in Investing Activities | $ | (62,330) | $ | (152,975) | $ | (184,066) |
Capital Expenditures. The amounts reflected in the Company’s Statements of Cash Flows are based on cash payments made during the relevant periods, whereas the Company’s capital expenditures for 2024, 2023 and 2022 disclosed in Note 19 to the Consolidated Financial Statements include assets acquired during the year. The Company estimates that its capital expenditures will be in the range of $90 million to $100 million in 2025.
Net Proceeds from Sales of Marketable Equity Securities. During 2024, 2023 and 2022, the Company sold marketable securities that generated proceeds of $23.5 million, $62.0 million and $102.0 million, respectively. The Company purchased $5.0 million, $4.6 million, and $42.1 million, of which $1.5 million was settled in January 2023, of marketable equity securities during 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Investment in Equity Affiliates. During 2023, the Company made additional investments in Intersection and Realm. During 2022, GHG invested an additional $18.5 million in two affiliates to fund their acquisition of an interest in a health system in Illinois and the Company also made an additional investment of $5.0 million in N2K Networks, the new parent entity formed through the CyberVista transaction.
Acquisitions. During 2024, the Company acquired two small businesses. During 2023, the Company acquired five businesses: one in automotive, three small businesses in healthcare and one in other businesses for $83.3 million in cash and contingent consideration and the assumption of floor plan payables. In September 2023, the Company’s automotive subsidiary acquired a Toyota automotive dealership, including the real property for the dealership operations. In addition to a cash payment and the assumption of $2.2 million in floor plan payables, the automotive subsidiary borrowed $37.0 million to finance the acquisition. During 2022, the Company acquired seven businesses: five in healthcare and two in automotive, for $143.2 million in cash and contingent consideration and the assumption of floor plan payables. GHG acquired two small businesses in August 2022, a 100% interest in a multi-state provider of Applied Behavioral Analysis clinics (Surpass Behavioral Health) in July 2022, and two small businesses in May 2022. In July 2022, the Company’s automotive subsidiary acquired two automotive dealerships, including the real property for the dealership operations. In addition to a cash payment and the assumption of $10.9 million in floor plan payables, the automotive subsidiary borrowed $77.4 million to finance the acquisition.
Loan to Related Party. In May 2024, the Company entered into a convertible promissory note agreement to loan N2K Networks $2.0 million. The convertible promissory note bears interest at a rate of 12% per annum and, subject to conversion provisions, all unpaid interest and principal are due by May 2027. In April 2023, the Company entered into a term note agreement to loan Intersection $30.0 million at an interest rate of 9% per annum. The principal and interest on the note are payable in monthly installments over five years with the final payment due by May 2028. The outstanding balance on this loan was $25.7 million as of December 31, 2024.
Financing Activities. The Company’s net cash flow used in financing activities were as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In thousands) | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
| Common shares repurchased | $ | (114,101) | $ | (193,160) | $ | (71,386) | ||||
| Net (payments) borrowing under revolving credit facilities | (35,756) | (104,244) | 3,000 | |||||||
| (Repayments) issuance of borrowings, net | (27,637) | 171,643 | 62,815 | |||||||
| Net (repayments of) proceeds from vehicle floor plan payable | (416) | 73,732 | 26,230 | |||||||
| Dividends paid | (30,347) | (30,953) | (30,712) | |||||||
| Other | (32,710) | (16,853) | (8,054) | |||||||
| Net Cash Used in Financing Activities | $ | (240,967) | $ | (99,835) | $ | (18,107) |
Common Stock Repurchases. During 2024, 2023, and 2022, the Company purchased a total of 152,948, 325,134, and 121,761 shares, respectively, of its Class B common stock at a cost of approximately $115.2 million, $195.0 million, and $71.4 million, respectively, including commissions and accrued excise tax of $1.1 million and $1.8 million for 2024 and 2023 purchases, respectively. On September 12, 2024, the Board of Directors authorized the Company to acquire up to 500,000 shares of its Class B common stock. The Company did not announce a ceiling
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price or time limit for the purchases. At December 31, 2024, the Company had remaining authorization from the Board of Directors to purchase up to 466,460 shares of Class B common stock.
Borrowings and Vehicle Floor Plan Payable. In 2024, the Company repaid amounts borrowed under the $300 million revolving credit facility, term loan and commercial notes at the automotive subsidiary. In September 2023, the Company’s automotive subsidiary entered into a credit agreement with Truist Bank which includes (i) a $75.2 million real estate term loan, (ii) a $65.0 million capital term loan, (iii) a $50.0 million delayed draw term loan, and (iv) establishment of a revolving floor plan credit facility. The automotive subsidiary used the net proceeds from the real estate and capital term loans to acquire an automotive dealership, including the real property for the dealership operations, and to repay the outstanding balances of the commercial notes maturing in 2031 and 2032. On July 28, 2023, the Company entered into a $150 million term loan and used the proceeds to repay the U.S. dollar borrowings of the $300 million revolving credit facility. In July 2022, the Company’s automotive subsidiary amended its commercial note to, among other things, increase the aggregate loan amount to $71.6 million and entered into three commercial notes in an aggregate amount of $27.2 million. The additional borrowings were used to acquire two automotive dealerships, including the real property for the dealership operations. In 2024, 2023, and 2022, the Company used vehicle floor plan financing to fund the purchase of new, used and service loaner vehicles at its automotive subsidiary. The (repayments of) proceeds from the vehicle floor plan payable fluctuates with changes in the amount of vehicle inventory held by the automotive dealerships.
Dividends. The annual dividend rate per share was $6.88, $6.60 and $6.32 in 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The Company expects to pay a dividend of $7.20 per share in 2025.
Other. In 2024, 2023 and 2022, the Company paid $5.4 million, $5.3 million and $5.7 million, respectively, related to contingent consideration and deferred payments from prior acquisitions. In December 2023, the Company acquired some of the minority-owned shares of CSI for a total amount of $20.0 million. The Company paid cash of $5.0 million and entered into a promissory note with the minority owners for the remaining $15.0 million.
Contractual Obligations. The following reflects a summary of the Company’s contractual obligations as of December 31, 2024:
| (in thousands) | 2025 | 2026 | 2027 | 2028 | 2029 | Thereafter | Total | |||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Debt and interest | $ | 70,829 | $ | 456,265 | $ | 212,051 | $ | 16,445 | $ | 91,447 | $ | 254 | $ | 847,291 | ||||||||||||
| Finance leases | 18,511 | 3,966 | 1,242 | 18 | 3 | — | 23,740 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Operating leases | 102,977 | 72,629 | 64,432 | 53,599 | 47,271 | 256,558 | 597,466 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Television broadcasting commitments (1) | 78,451 | 43,796 | 12,280 | 5,014 | — | — | 139,541 | |||||||||||||||||||
| IT software and services | 37,951 | 32,009 | 20,840 | 4,754 | 84 | — | 95,638 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Other purchase obligations (2) | 25,816 | 7,617 | 229 | 35 | 18 | — | 33,715 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Long-term liabilities (3) | 2,267 | 2,247 | 2,238 | 2,221 | 2,211 | 2,759 | 13,943 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Total | $ | 336,802 | $ | 618,529 | $ | 313,312 | $ | 82,086 | $ | 141,034 | $ | 259,571 | $ | 1,751,334 |
___________________
| (1) | Includes network fees, employment agreements and programming purchase commitments for the Company’s television broadcasting business. |
|---|---|
| (2) | Includes purchase obligations related to capital projects and other legally binding commitments. Other purchase orders made in the ordinary course of business are excluded from the table above. Any amounts for which the Company is liable under purchase orders are reflected in the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets as accounts payable and accrued liabilities. |
| (3) | Primarily made up of multiemployer pension plan withdrawal obligations and postretirement benefit obligations other than pensions. The Company has other long-term liabilities excluded from the table above, including obligations for deferred compensation, long-term incentive plans, long-term deferred revenue and mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest. |
Other. The Company does not have any off-balance-sheet arrangements or financing activities with special-purpose entities.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and judgments that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements. On an ongoing basis, the Company evaluates its estimates and assumptions. The Company bases its estimates on historical experience and other assumptions believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
An accounting policy is considered critical if it is important to the Company’s financial condition and results and if it requires management’s most difficult, subjective and complex judgments in its application. For a summary of all of the Company’s significant accounting policies, see Note 2 to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements.
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Revenue Recognition, Trade Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Credit Losses. Education revenue is primarily derived from postsecondary education services, professional education and test preparation services. Revenue, net of any refunds, corporate discounts, scholarships and employee tuition discounts, is recognized ratably over the instruction period or access period for higher education and supplemental education services.
At Kaplan International and Kaplan Supplemental Education, estimates of average student course length are developed for each course, along with estimates for the anticipated level of student drops and refunds from test performance guarantees, and these estimates are evaluated on an ongoing basis and adjusted as necessary. As Kaplan’s businesses and related course offerings have changed, including more online programs, the complexity and significance of management’s estimates have increased.
KHE provides non-academic operations support services to Purdue Global pursuant to a TOSA, which includes technology support, helpdesk functions, human resources support for faculty and employees, admissions support, financial aid administration, advertising, back-office business functions, and certain student recruitment services. KHE is not entitled to receive any reimbursement of costs incurred in providing support services, or any fee, unless and until Purdue Global has first covered all of its academic costs (subject to a cap) and, if applicable, received payment for cost efficiencies. KHE will receive reimbursement for its operating costs of providing the support services after payment of Purdue Global’s operating costs and cost efficiency payments. If there are sufficient revenues, KHE may be entitled to a cost efficiency payment, if any, and an additional fee equal to 12.5% of Purdue Global’s revenue. Subject to certain limitations, a portion of the fee that is earned by KHE in one year may be carried over to subsequent years for payment to Kaplan.
The support fee and reimbursement for KHE support costs are entirely dependent on the availability of cash at the end of Purdue Global’s fiscal year (June 30), and therefore, all consideration in the contract is variable. The Company uses significant judgment to forecast the operating results of Purdue Global, the availability of cash at the end of each fiscal year, and the consideration it expects to receive from Purdue Global annually. Key assumptions used in the forecast model include student census and degree enrollment data, Purdue Global and KHE expenses, changes to working capital, contractually stipulated minimum payments, and lead conversion rates. The forecast is updated as uncertainties are resolved. The Company reviews and updates the assumptions regularly, as a significant change in one or more of these estimates could affect the revenue recognized. Changes to the estimated variable consideration were not material for the year ended December 31, 2024.
A Kaplan International business has a contract with an examination body through August 2029 comprised of two performance obligations, one to build and create a professional exam and another to manage the delivery of that exam to qualified candidates. The first obligation was completed in 2021. The second obligation began after the first obligation was completed and is expected to continue through the end of the contract term. Revenues are recognized for both of these obligations by allocating the transaction price based on forecasted financial results and the use of a market-based profit margin applied to costs incurred during the financial reporting period. This profit margin, determined at contract inception, is different for each obligation as a result of the different value created by each distinct obligation. The forecast, including key assumptions such as expected candidate volumes and related exam-management expenses, is updated as future uncertainties are resolved, which may result in changes to the transaction price. The Company reviews and updates the assumptions regularly, as a significant change in one or more of these estimates could affect revenue recognized. Changes to the estimated variable consideration were not material for the year ended December 31, 2024.
The determination of whether revenue should be reported on a gross or net basis is based on an assessment of whether the Company acts as a principal or an agent in the transaction. In certain cases, the Company is considered the agent, and the Company records revenue equal to the net amount retained when the fee is earned. In these cases, costs incurred with third-party suppliers are excluded from the Company’s revenue. The Company assesses whether it obtained control of the specified goods or services before they are transferred to the customer as part of this assessment. In addition, the Company considers other indicators such as the party primarily responsible for fulfillment, inventory risk and discretion in establishing price.
Accounts receivable have been reduced by an allowance that reflects the current expected credit losses associated with the receivables. This estimated allowance is based on historical write-offs, current macroeconomic conditions, reasonable and supportable forecasts of future economic conditions and management’s evaluation of the financial condition of the customer. The Company generally considers an account past due or delinquent when a student or customer misses a scheduled payment. The Company writes off accounts receivable balances deemed uncollectible against the allowance for credit losses following the passage of a certain period of time, or generally when the account is turned over for collection to an outside collection agency.
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Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. The Company has a significant amount of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets that are reviewed at least annually for possible impairment.
| As of December 31 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in millions) | 2024 | 2023 | ||||
| Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets | $ | 1,664.4 | $ | 1,713.1 | ||
| Total assets | 7,677.2 | 7,187.7 | ||||
| Percentage of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets to total assets | 22 | % | 24 | % |
The Company performs its annual goodwill and intangible assets impairment test as of November 30. Goodwill and other intangible assets are reviewed for possible impairment between annual tests if an event occurred or circumstances changed that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of the reporting unit or other intangible assets below its carrying value.
Goodwill
The Company tests its goodwill at the reporting unit level, which is an operating segment or one level below an operating segment. The Company initially performs an assessment of qualitative factors to determine if it is necessary to perform a quantitative goodwill impairment test. The Company quantitatively tests goodwill for impairment if, based on its assessment of the qualitative factors, it determines that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, or if it decides to bypass the qualitative assessment. The quantitative goodwill impairment test compares the estimated fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. An impairment charge is recognized for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value.
The Company performed an interim impairment review of goodwill at the WGB reporting unit in the second quarter of 2024 due to substantial digital advertising revenue declines and continued significant operating losses. The Company recorded a $7.5 million goodwill impairment charge at the WGB reporting unit as a result of the interim impairment review. The Company estimated the fair value of the reporting unit by utilizing a discounted cash flow model. The carrying value of the reporting unit exceeded its indicated fair value by more than the goodwill balance, which resulted in a goodwill impairment charge for the remaining goodwill at the reporting unit. As a result of the impairment charge, no goodwill remains at the WGB reporting unit, which is included in other businesses.
The Company had 21 reporting units as of December 31, 2024. The reporting units with significant goodwill balances as of December 31, 2024, were as follows, representing 95% of the total goodwill of the Company:
| (in millions) | Goodwill | |
|---|---|---|
| Education | ||
| Kaplan international | $ | 580.5 |
| Higher education | 63.2 | |
| Supplemental education | 171.4 | |
| Television broadcasting | 190.8 | |
| Healthcare | 135.0 | |
| Automotive | 129.3 | |
| Hoover | 91.3 | |
| Framebridge | 60.9 | |
| Total | $ | 1,422.4 |
As of November 30, 2024, in connection with the Company’s annual impairment testing, the Company decided to perform the quantitative goodwill impairment process at all of the reporting units. The Company’s policy requires the performance of a quantitative impairment review of the goodwill at least once every three years. The Company used a discounted cash flow model, and, where appropriate, a market value approach was also utilized to supplement the discounted cash flow model to determine the estimated fair value of its reporting units. The Company made estimates and assumptions regarding future cash flows, discount rates, long-term growth rates and market values to determine each reporting unit’s estimated fair value. The methodology used to estimate the fair value of the Company’s reporting units on November 30, 2024, was consistent with the one used during the 2023 annual goodwill impairment test.
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The Company made changes to certain of its assumptions utilized in the discounted cash flow models for 2024 compared with the prior year to take into account changes in the economic environment, regulations and their impact on the Company’s businesses. The key assumptions used by the Company were as follows:
•Expected cash flows underlying the Company’s business plans for the periods 2025 through 2029 were used. The Company used expected cash flows for the periods 2025 through 2031 and 2025 through 2034 for the Framebridge and Hoover reporting units, respectively. The expected cash flows took into account historical growth rates, the effect of the changed economic outlook at the Company’s businesses, industry challenges and an estimate for the possible impact of any applicable regulations.
•Cash flows beyond the forecasted years, where applicable, were projected to grow at a long-term growth rate, which the Company estimated between 1.5% and 3% for each reporting unit.
•The Company used a discount rate of 8.5% to 20.5% to risk adjust the cash flow projections in determining the estimated fair value.
The fair value of each of the reporting units exceeded its respective carrying value as of November 30, 2024.
The estimated fair value of the Framebridge reporting unit exceeded its carrying values by a margin of less than 35%. The total goodwill at the Framebridge reporting unit was $60.9 million as of December 31, 2024, or 4% of the total goodwill of the Company. There exists a reasonable possibility that a decrease in the assumed projected cash flows or long-term growth rate, or an increase in the discount rate assumption used in the discounted cash flow model of this reporting unit, could result in a possible impairment charge.
The estimated fair value of the Company’s other reporting units with significant goodwill balances exceeded their respective carrying values by a margin in excess of 35%. It is possible that impairment charges could occur in the future, as changes in market conditions and the inherent variability in projecting future operating performance could result in adverse changes in projections for future operating results or other key assumptions, such as projected revenue, profit margin, capital expenditures or cash flows associated with fair value estimates and could lead to additional future impairments, which could be material.
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
The Company’s intangible assets with an indefinite life are principally from franchise rights, trade names and FCC licenses. The Company initially assesses qualitative factors to determine if it is more likely than not that the fair value of its indefinite-lived intangible assets is less than its carrying value. The Company compares the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset with its carrying value if the qualitative factors indicate it is more likely than not that the fair value of the asset is less than its carrying value or if it decides to bypass the qualitative assessment. The Company records an impairment loss if the carrying value of the indefinite-lived intangible assets exceeds the fair value of the assets for the difference in the values. The Company uses a discounted cash flow model, and, in certain cases, a market value approach is also utilized to supplement the discounted cash flow model to determine the estimated fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible assets. The Company makes estimates and assumptions regarding future cash flows, discount rates, long-term growth rates and other market values to determine the estimated fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible assets. The Company’s policy requires the performance of a quantitative impairment review of the indefinite-lived intangible assets at least once every three years.
In conjunction with the Company’s annual impairment review, as a result of reduced enrollments at MPW and the recent U.K. government elimination of the Value Added Tax (VAT) exemption on private school tuition coupled with an overall downward trend in enrollments at sixth-form colleges leading to uncertainty regarding future enrollments, the Company recorded an indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment charge of $22.9 million at MPW. The Company estimated the fair value of the trade name by utilizing the relief from royalty method under a discounted cash flow model. The carrying value of the MPW trademark indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeded its estimated fair value, resulting in an indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment charge for the excess amount. MPW is included in Kaplan International.
With the exception of the MPW trademark indefinite-lived intangible asset, the fair value of all the indefinite-lived intangible assets exceeded their respective carrying values as of November 30, 2024. The estimated fair values of indefinite-lived intangible assets with a total carrying value of $17.0 million exceeded their carrying value by a margin of less than 10%. There exists a reasonable possibility that impairment charges could occur in the future, as changes in market conditions and the inherent variability in projecting future operating performance could result in adverse changes in projections for future operating results or other key assumptions, such as projected revenue, profit margin, capital expenditures or cash flows associated with fair value estimates and could lead to future impairments, which could be material.
Pension Costs. The Company sponsors a defined benefit pension plan for eligible employees in the U.S. Excluding curtailment gains, settlement gains and special termination benefits, the Company’s net pension credit
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was $107.7 million, $111.3 million and $170.2 million for 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The Company’s pension benefit obligation and related credits are actuarially determined and are significantly impacted by the Company’s assumptions related to future events, including the discount rate, expected return on plan assets and rate of compensation increases. The Company evaluates these critical assumptions at least annually and, periodically, evaluates other assumptions involving demographic factors, such as retirement age, mortality and turnover, and updates them to reflect its experience and expectations for the future. Actual results in any given year will often differ from actuarial assumptions because of economic and other factors.
The Company assumed a 6.25% expected return on plan assets for 2024, 2023 and 2022. The Company’s actual return (loss) on plan assets was 19.1% in 2024, 23.2% in 2023 and (23.4%) in 2022. The 10-year and 20-year actual returns on plan assets on an annual basis were 8.8% and 9.6%, respectively.
Accumulated and projected benefit obligations are measured as the present value of future cash payments. The Company discounts those cash payments using the weighted average of market-observed yields for high-quality fixed-income securities with maturities that correspond to the payment of benefits. Lower discount rates increase present values and generally increase subsequent-year pension costs; higher discount rates decrease present values and decrease subsequent-year pension costs. The Company’s discount rate at December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, was 5.8%, 5.2% and 5.5%, respectively, reflecting market interest rates.
Changes in key assumptions for the Company’s pension plan would have had the following effects on the 2024 pension credit, excluding curtailment gains, settlement gains and special termination benefits:
• Expected return on assets – A 1% increase or decrease to the Company’s assumed expected return on plan assets would have increased or decreased the pension credit by approximately $26.5 million.
• Discount rate – A 1% decrease to the Company’s assumed discount rate would have decreased the pension credit by approximately $7.2 million. A 1% increase to the Company’s assumed discount rate would have increased the pension credit by approximately $5.7 million.
The Company’s net pension credit includes an expected return on plan assets component, calculated using the expected return on plan assets assumption applied to a market-related value of plan assets. The market-related value of plan assets is determined using a five-year average market value method, which recognizes realized and unrealized appreciation and depreciation in market values over a five-year period. The value resulting from applying this method is adjusted, if necessary, such that it cannot be less than 80% or more than 120% of the market value of plan assets as of the relevant measurement date. As a result, year-to-year increases or decreases in the market-related value of plan assets impact the return on plan assets component of pension credit for the year.
At the end of each year, differences between the actual return on plan assets and the expected return on plan assets are combined with other differences in actual versus expected experience to form a net unamortized actuarial gain or loss in accumulated other comprehensive income. Only those net actuarial gains or losses in excess of the deferred realized and unrealized appreciation and depreciation are potentially subject to amortization.
The types of items that generate actuarial gains and losses that may be subject to amortization in net periodic pension (credit) cost include the following:
• Asset returns that are more or less than the expected return on plan assets for the year;
• Actual participant demographic experience different from assumed (retirements, terminations and deaths during the year);
• Actual salary increases different from assumed; and
• Any changes in assumptions that are made to better reflect the anticipated experience of the plan or to reflect current market conditions on the measurement date (discount rate, longevity increases, changes in expected participant behavior and expected return on plan assets).
Amortization of the unrecognized actuarial gain or loss is included as a component of pension credit for a year if the magnitude of the net unamortized gain or loss in accumulated other comprehensive income exceeds 10% of the greater of the benefit obligation or the market-related value of assets (10% corridor). The amortization component is equal to that excess divided by the average remaining service period of active employees expected to receive benefits under the plan. At the end of 2021, the Company had net unamortized actuarial gains in accumulated other comprehensive income subject to amortization outside the 10% corridor, and therefore, an amortized gain of $68.7 million was included in the pension credit for 2022.
During 2022, there were significant pension asset losses partially offset by an increase in the discount rate that resulted in net unamortized actuarial gains in accumulated other comprehensive income subject to amortization
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outside the 10% corridor, and therefore, an amortized gain of $39.8 million was included in the pension credit for 2023.
During 2023, there were significant pension asset gains partially offset by a decrease in the discount rate that resulted in net unamortized actuarial gains in accumulated other comprehensive income subject to amortization outside the 10% corridor, and therefore, an amortized gain of $37.9 million was included in the pension credit for the first nine and a half months of 2024.
As a result of the irrevocable group annuity purchase, the Company remeasured the accumulated and projected benefit obligations as of October 17, 2024, and recorded a settlement gain. During the first nine and a half months, there were significant pension asset gains offset by the $653.4 million settlement gain following the purchase of the irrevocable group annuity contract that resulted in no net unamortized actuarial gains in accumulated other comprehensive income subject to amortization outside the 10% corridor, and therefore, no amortized gain amount was included in the pension credit for the last two and a half months of 2024. During the last two and a half months of 2024, there was an increase in the discount rate; however, the Company currently estimates that there will be no net unamortized actuarial gains in accumulated other comprehensive income subject to amortization outside the 10% corridor, and therefore, no amortized gain amount is included in the estimated pension credit for 2025.
Overall, the Company estimates that it will record a net pension credit of approximately $95.1 million in 2025.
Note 15 to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements provides additional details surrounding pension costs and related assumptions.
Accounting for Income Taxes.
Valuation Allowances
Deferred income taxes arise from temporary differences between the tax and financial statement recognition of assets and liabilities. In evaluating its ability to recover deferred tax assets within the jurisdiction from which they arise, the Company considers all available positive and negative evidence, including scheduled reversals of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, tax planning strategies and recent financial operations. These assumptions require significant judgment about forecasts of future taxable income.
As of December 31, 2024, the Company had state income tax net operating loss carryforwards of $1,163.4 million, which will expire at various future dates. Also at December 31, 2024, the Company had $84.1 million of non-U.S. income tax loss carryforwards, of which $36.2 million may be carried forward indefinitely; $41.7 million of losses that, if unutilized, will expire in varying amounts through 2029; and $6.2 million of losses that, if unutilized, will start to expire after 2029. At December 31, 2024, the Company has established approximately $74.8 million in total valuation allowances, primarily against deferred state tax assets, net of U.S. Federal income taxes, and non-U.S. deferred tax assets, as the Company believes that it is more likely than not that the benefit from certain state and non-U.S. net operating loss carryforwards and other deferred tax assets will not be realized. In most instances, the Company has established valuation allowances against state income tax benefits recognized, without considering potentially offsetting deferred tax liabilities established with respect to prepaid pension cost and goodwill. Prepaid pension cost and goodwill have not been considered a source of future taxable income for realizing deferred tax benefits recognized since these temporary differences are not likely to reverse in the foreseeable future. However, certain deferred state tax assets have an indefinite life. As a result, the Company has considered deferred tax liabilities for prepaid pension cost and goodwill as a source of future taxable income for realizing those deferred state tax assets with indefinite lives. The valuation allowances established against state and non-U.S. income tax benefits recorded may increase or decrease within the next 12 months, based on operating results or the market value of investment holdings; as a result, the Company is unable to estimate the potential tax impact, given the uncertain operating and market environment. The Company will be monitoring future operating results and projected future operating results on a quarterly basis to determine whether the valuation allowances provided against state and non-U.S. deferred tax assets should be increased or decreased, as future circumstances warrant.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements. See Note 2 to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of recent accounting pronouncements.
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FY 2023 10-K MD&A
SEC filing source: 0000104889-24-000010.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND FINANCIAL CONDITION
This analysis should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and the notes thereto. Refer to Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in the Graham Holdings Company’s 2022 Annual Report on Form 10-K for management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2022 compared to the year ended December 31, 2021.
OVERVIEW
Graham Holdings Company (the Company) is a diversified holding company whose operations include educational services, television broadcasting, manufacturing, healthcare and automotive dealerships. The Company has seven reportable segments and a group of companies that make up Other Businesses. The Company’s business units are diverse and subject to different trends and risks.
Education is the largest operating division of the Company, making up 36% of the Company’s consolidated revenues in 2023. Through its subsidiary Kaplan, Inc., the Company provides extensive worldwide education services for individuals, schools and businesses. The Company has devoted significant resources and attention to this division for many years, given its geographic and product diversity, the investment opportunities and growth prospects during this time, and challenges related to government regulation. Kaplan is organized into the following three operating segments: Kaplan International, Kaplan Higher Education (KHE) and Supplemental Education.
Kaplan International reported revenue growth for 2023 due largely to increases at Pathways, Australia, Languages and UK Professional, partially offset by a decline at Singapore. Kaplan International operating results increased in 2023 due to improved results at Australia, Pathways and Languages, partially offset by a decline at UK Professional. KHE revenue and operating results increased in 2023 due to an increase in the Purdue University Global (Purdue Global) fee recorded. Supplemental Education revenues declined in 2023 due to lower demand for graduate and pre-college test preparation programs, while demand for professional programs remained stable; operating results improved in 2023 due to savings from reduced headcount.
The Company’s second largest business is television broadcasting. The Company’s television broadcasting division reported lower revenues and operating income in 2023, due largely to a significant reduction in political advertising revenue from the 2022 election cycle. Retransmission revenues, net of network fee expense, trended down modestly in 2023 with this trend expected to continue in the future due largely to adverse subscriber trends from cord cutting. In recent years, the television broadcasting division has consistently generated significantly higher operating income amounts and operating income margins than the education division and the Company’s other reporting segments.
The Company’s manufacturing division has provided meaningful operating cash flow over the last few years, although revenues and operating results at Dekko have been adversely impacted by lower product demand, particularly in the commercial office electrical products sector. Graham Healthcare Group (GHG) has grown substantially over the last few years and provided meaningful operating cash flow from acquisitions and internal growth. GHG has expanded from its home health and hospice operations into new lines of business, largely from significant growth at CSI Pharmacy Holding Company, LLC (CSI), which provides nursing care and prescription services for patients receiving in-home infusion treatments. Automotive revenues, operating income and operating cash flow grew in 2023 due to acquisitions, internal growth and a favorable operating environment.
The Company’s other businesses include several investment stage businesses as well as investments into new lines of business over the last few years. In total, there are ten operating business units that make up this group in three categories: retail, media and specialty. The largest of these businesses from a revenue standpoint is Clyde’s Restaurant Group (CRG), followed by the combined three former Leaf businesses, and then Framebridge, a custom framing service company. In 2023, CRG, Slate and Foreign Policy each reported positive operating income, while the other businesses each reported operating losses, which were significant at the combined three former Leaf businesses and Framebridge.
The Company generates a significant amount of cash from its businesses that is used to support its operations, pay down debt and fund capital expenditures, share repurchases, dividends, acquisitions and other investments.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Net income attributable to common shares was $205.3 million ($43.82 per share) for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to $67.1 million ($13.79 per share) for the year ended December 31, 2022.
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Items included in the Company’s net income for 2023 are listed below:
•a $7.0 million net credit related to fair value changes in contingent consideration from prior acquisitions (after-tax impact of $6.5 million, or $1.38 per share);
•$99.1 million in goodwill and other long-lived asset impairment charges (after-tax impact of $88.9 million, or $18.97 per share);
•$9.9 million in expenses related to non-operating Separation Incentive Programs (SIPs) at other businesses and the education and television broadcasting divisions (after-tax impact of $7.3 million, or $1.57 per share);
•$138.1 million in net gains on marketable equity securities (after-tax impact of $102.7 million, or $21.93 per share);
•$16.0 million in net losses of affiliates whose operations are not managed by the Company (after-tax impact of $11.9 million, or $2.53 per share);
•a non-operating gain of $10.0 million on the sale of Pinna (after-tax impact of $7.4 million, or $1.59 per share);
•Non-operating gains, net, of $3.4 million from write-ups, sales and impairments of cost method investments (after-tax impact of $2.5 million, or $0.54 per share);
•a $4.6 million credit to interest expense resulting from gains realized related to the termination of interest rate swaps (after-tax impact of $3.3 million, or $0.72 per share); and
•$10.1 million in interest expense to adjust the fair value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest (after-tax impact of $9.6 million, or $2.05 per share).
Items included in the Company’s net income for 2022 are listed below:
•a $6.1 million net credit related to fair value changes in contingent consideration from prior acquisitions (after-tax impact of $6.1 million or $1.25 per share);
◦$129.0 million in goodwill and other long-lived asset impairment charges (after-tax impact of $117.0 million, or $24.06 per share) recorded in the fourth quarter;
◦$3.6 million in expenses related to a non-operating SIP at the education division (after-tax impact of $2.7 million, or $0.56 per share) recorded in the fourth quarter;
◦$139.6 million in net losses on marketable equity securities (after-tax impact of $102.8 million, or $21.14 per share);
◦$11.8 million in net losses of affiliates whose operations are not managed by the Company (after-tax impact of $8.7 million, or $1.79 per share);
•a fourth quarter gain of $18.4 million on the sale of CyberVista (after-tax impact of $13.5 million, or $2.78 per share);
•Non-operating gains, net, of $9.5 million from write-ups, sales and impairments of cost and equity method investments (after-tax impact of $7.1 million, or $1.45 per share); and
◦$16.5 million in interest expense to adjust the fair value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest (after-tax impact of $15.4 million, or $3.17 per share).
Revenue for 2023 was $4,414.9 million, up 12% from $3,924.5 million in 2022. Revenues increased at education, healthcare and automotive, partially offset by declines at television broadcasting, manufacturing and other businesses. Operating costs and expenses for the year increased to $4,345.5 million in 2023, from $3,840.6 million in 2022. Expenses in 2023 increased at education, television broadcasting, manufacturing, healthcare and automotive, partially offset by a decrease at other businesses. The Company reported operating income for 2023 of $69.4 million, compared to $83.9 million in 2022. The decrease in operating results is due to goodwill impairment charges at World of Good Brands (WGB, formerly Leaf Media) and Dekko and declines at television broadcasting and manufacturing, partially offset by increases at education, healthcare and automotive, and reduced losses at other businesses due to goodwill and other long-lived asset impairment charges in 2022 at Society6 and Saatchi Art (both formerly included in Leaf Marketplace).
Division Results
Education
Education division revenue in 2023 totaled $1,587.6 million, up 11% from $1,427.9 million in 2022. Kaplan reported operating income of $104.5 million for 2023, an increase from $82.9 million in 2022.
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In the second quarter of 2023, Kaplan modified its segment reporting for Kaplan India, a shared services center that supports Higher Education (previously included in Kaplan corporate and other); prior periods have been reclassified to conform with the current presentation.
A summary of Kaplan’s operating results is as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2023 | 2022 | % Change | ||||||
| Revenue | |||||||||
| Kaplan international | $ | 966,879 | $ | 816,239 | 18 | ||||
| Higher education | 326,961 | 310,407 | 5 | ||||||
| Supplemental education | 292,776 | 301,625 | (3) | ||||||
| Kaplan corporate and other | 11,012 | 9,853 | 12 | ||||||
| Intersegment elimination | (10,047) | (10,209) | — | ||||||
| $ | 1,587,581 | $ | 1,427,915 | 11 | |||||
| Operating Income (Loss) | |||||||||
| Kaplan international | $ | 87,530 | $ | 72,066 | 21 | ||||
| Higher education | 38,942 | 24,819 | 57 | ||||||
| Supplemental education | 22,472 | 21,069 | 7 | ||||||
| Kaplan corporate and other | (29,891) | (18,806) | (59) | ||||||
| Amortization of intangible assets | (14,076) | (16,170) | 13 | ||||||
| Impairment of long-lived assets | (477) | — | — | ||||||
| Intersegment elimination | (29) | (45) | — | ||||||
| $ | 104,471 | $ | 82,933 | 26 |
Kaplan International includes postsecondary education, professional training and language training businesses largely outside the United States. Kaplan International revenue increased 18% in 2023 (18% on a constant currency basis). The increase in 2023 is due largely to growth at Pathways, Australia, Languages and UK Professional, partially offset by a decline at Singapore. Kaplan International reported operating income of $87.5 million in 2023, compared to $72.1 million in 2022. The increase is due largely to improved results at Australia, Pathways and Languages, partially offset by a decline at UK Professional.
Higher Education includes the results of Kaplan as a service provider to higher education institutions. Higher Education revenue increased 5% in 2023 due largely to an increase in the Purdue Global fee recorded. In 2023 and 2022, Kaplan recorded a portion of the fee with Purdue Global based on an assessment of its collectability under the TOSA. Enrollments at Purdue Global for 2023 finished 4% higher compared with the end of 2022. The Company will continue to assess the collectability of the fee with Purdue Global on a quarterly basis to make a determination as to whether to record all or part of the fee in the future and whether to make adjustments to fee amounts recognized in earlier periods. During 2023 and 2022, Kaplan recorded $50.3 million and $38.9 million, respectively, in fees from Purdue Global in its Higher Education operating results. Higher Education results improved in 2023 due to an increase in the Purdue Global fee recorded and improved results from other higher education development programs.
Supplemental Education includes Kaplan’s standardized test preparation programs and domestic professional and other continuing education businesses. Supplemental Education revenue declined 3% in 2023, driven mostly by softness in Real Estate, Securities and Medical Licensure test preparation, offset in part by growth in CFP, CFA, Architecture and Engineering and MCAT test preparation and publishing activities. Overall, demand for graduate and pre-college test preparation programs has declined due to the strength of U.S. employment markets and the decline in test takers, while demand for professional programs remained stable. Operating results improved in 2023 due to savings from reduced headcount, partially offset by lower revenues.
In the fourth quarter of 2022, Kaplan implemented a SIP to reduce the number of employees at Supplemental Education and Higher Education, which was funded by the assets of the Company’s pension plan. In connection with the SIP, the Company recorded $3.6 million in non-operating pension expense in the fourth quarter of 2022.
Kaplan corporate and other represents unallocated expenses of Kaplan, Inc.’s corporate office, other minor businesses and certain shared activities. Overall, Kaplan corporate and other expenses increased in 2023 due to higher incentive compensation costs compared to 2022.
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Television Broadcasting
A summary of television broadcasting’s operating results is as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2023 | 2022 | % Change | ||||||||||||
| Revenue | $ | 472,436 | $ | 535,651 | (12) | ||||||||||
| Operating Income | 133,938 | 201,879 | (34) |
Graham Media Group, Inc. (GMG) owns seven television stations located in Houston, TX; Detroit, MI; Orlando, FL; San Antonio, TX; Jacksonville, FL; and Roanoke, VA, as well as SocialNewsDesk, a provider of social media management tools designed to connect newsrooms with their users. Revenue at the television broadcasting division decreased 12% to $472.4 million in 2023, from $535.7 million in 2022. The revenue decline is due primarily to a $57.8 million decline in political advertising revenue. The revenue decline is also due to winter Olympics and Super Bowl advertising revenue at the Company’s NBC affiliates in the first quarter of 2022, as well as a small decline in retransmission revenues. Operating income for 2023 declined 34% to $133.9 million, from $201.9 million in 2022, due to reduced revenues and higher network fees. While per subscriber rates from cable, satellite and OTT providers have grown, overall cable and satellite subscribers are down due to cord cutting, resulting in retransmission revenue net of network fees in 2023 to be down modestly compared with 2022, and this trend is expected to continue in the future. Operating margin at the television broadcasting division was 28% in 2023 and 38% in 2022.
GMG's media hubs continued to sustain their competitiveness among local news stations in their respective markets. In the traditional broadcasting space, KSAT in San Antonio and WJXT in Jacksonville wrapped up the year with top-rated news broadcasts at 6 a.m., 6 p.m., and late evenings within the crucial 25-54 demographic. Throughout 2023, KPRC in Houston secured a strong second-place position in morning, evening, and late newscasts. Similarly, WDIV in Detroit achieved the top-rated news broadcast at 6 p.m. and secured a second-place finish in both 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. newscasts. At 11 p.m., WKMG delivered its most competitive performance among their key newscasts, securing a third-place finish. Additionally, the 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. newscasts claimed the fourth position in the Orlando market. In Roanoke, WSLS delivered a third-place finish at 6 a.m., 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. On the digital front, GMG's streaming platforms reported sustained growth in live stream hours watched. GMG's Insider membership registrations maintained an upward trajectory, and the local media sites concluded another year as the leading local media platforms in their respective markets.
Manufacturing
A summary of manufacturing’s operating results is as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2023 | 2022 | % Change | ||||||||||||
| Revenue | $ | 447,910 | $ | 486,643 | (8) | ||||||||||
| Operating (Loss) Income | (16,793) | 33,707 | — |
Manufacturing includes four businesses: Hoover, a supplier of pressure impregnated kiln-dried lumber and plywood products for fire retardant and preservative applications; Dekko, a manufacturer of electrical workspace solutions, architectural lighting and electrical components and assemblies; Joyce/Dayton, a manufacturer of screw jacks and other linear motion systems; and Forney, a global supplier of products and systems that control and monitor combustion processes in electric utility and industrial applications.
Manufacturing revenues decreased 8% in 2023 due to lower revenues at Hoover and Dekko, partially offset by increased revenues at Joyce and Forney. The revenue decline in 2023 at Hoover is due to lower wood prices and a decrease in overall product demand, partially offset by increased rates. Revenues declined at Dekko due largely to lower product demand, particularly in the commercial office electrical products sector. Overall, Hoover results included wood gains on inventory sales in 2023 and 2022, with gains in 2023 higher than the prior year. Manufacturing operating results declined in 2023 due primarily to a $47.8 million goodwill impairment charge at Dekko, resulting from continued sustained weakness in demand for certain Dekko power and data products, primarily in the commercial office sector. Excluding the impairment charge at Dekko, manufacturing results were down in 2023, due to declines at Dekko, partially offset by improved results at Hoover, Joyce and Forney. Excluding the impact of wood gains and losses, Hoover results were down modestly in 2023.
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Healthcare
A summary of healthcare’s operating results is as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2023 | 2022 | % Change | ||||||||||||
| Revenue | $ | 459,481 | $ | 326,000 | 41 | ||||||||||
| Operating Income | 23,845 | 15,265 | 56 |
GHG provides home health and hospice services in seven states. GHG also provides other healthcare services, including nursing care and prescription services for patients receiving in-home infusion treatments through its 86.7% interest in CSI. In May 2022, GHG acquired two small businesses, one of which expanded GHG’s home health operations into Kansas and Missouri. In July 2022, GHG acquired a 100% interest in a multi-state provider of Applied Behavior Analysis clinics and in August 2022, GHG acquired two small businesses, which expanded GHG’s hospice services into Missouri and Ohio. Healthcare revenues increased 41% in 2023, largely due to significant growth at CSI and from businesses acquired in 2022, along with growth in home health and hospice services.
In January 2022, GHG implemented a pension credit retention program in order to improve employee retention and utilize the Company’s surplus pension assets. The GHG program offers a pension credit up to $50,000 per employee, cliff vested after three years of continuous employment for certain existing employees and new employees. GHG recorded pension expense of $13.5 million and $10.5 million related to this program in 2023 and 2022, respectively.
The improvement in GHG operating results in 2023 is due largely to improved results at CSI and in home health and hospice, partly offset by increased net losses from newly acquired businesses.
The Company also holds interests in four home health and hospice joint ventures managed by GHG, whose results are included in equity in earnings of affiliates in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. In 2023 and 2022, the Company recorded equity in earnings of $9.9 million and $8.1 million, respectively, from these joint ventures. During the first quarter of 2022, GHG, through its Residential Home Health Illinois and Residential Hospice Illinois affiliates, acquired an interest in the home health and hospice assets of NorthShore University HealthSystem, an integrated healthcare delivery system serving patients throughout the Chicago, IL area. The transaction resulted in a decrease to GHG’s interest in Residential Hospice Illinois and a $0.6 million non-operating gain was recorded in the first quarter of 2022 related to the change in interest.
Automotive
A summary of automotive’s operating results is as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2023 | 2022 | % Change | ||||||||||||
| Revenue | $ | 1,079,893 | $ | 734,185 | 47 | ||||||||||
| Operating Income | 39,258 | 34,633 | 13 |
Automotive includes eight automotive dealerships in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area and Richmond, VA: Ourisman Lexus of Rockville, Ourisman Honda of Tysons Corner, Ourisman Jeep Bethesda, Ourisman Ford of Manassas, and Toyota of Woodbridge and Ourisman Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep-Ram (CDJR) of Woodbridge, which were acquired on July 5, 2022 from the Lustine Automotive Group, and Ourisman Toyota of Richmond, which was acquired on September 27, 2023 from McGeorge Toyota. The automotive group was awarded a Kia Open Point dealership in Bethesda, MD which commenced operations at the end of December 2023. Christopher J. Ourisman, a member of the Ourisman Automotive Group family of dealerships, and his team of industry professionals operates and manages the dealerships; the Company holds a 90% stake.
Revenues for 2023 increased 47% due to the acquisitions of the Toyota of Woodbridge, CDJR of Woodbridge and Toyota of Richmond dealerships and sales growth at the other dealerships, except for the Jeep dealership, which had lower revenues due to a decline in new vehicle sales. Additionally, all of the dealerships reported sales growth for services and parts in 2023. Operating results for 2023 improved due largely to the Toyota of Woodbridge, CDJR of Woodbridge and Toyota of Richmond acquisitions, and improved results at the Honda and Lexus dealerships, partially offset by declines at the Jeep dealership due primarily to a reduction in new vehicle sales and related margins, and declines at the Ford dealership in margins on new vehicle sales.
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Other Businesses
A summary of revenue by category for other businesses:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2023 | 2022 | % Change | ||||||
| Operating Revenues | |||||||||
| Retail (1) | $ | 124,323 | $ | 163,570 | (24) | ||||
| Media (2) | 106,236 | 126,095 | (16) | ||||||
| Specialty (3) | 139,094 | 126,419 | 10 | ||||||
| $ | 369,653 | $ | 416,084 | (11) |
____________
| (1) | Includes Society6 and Saatchi Art (formerly Leaf Marketplace) and Framebridge |
|---|---|
| (2) | Includes WGB (formerly Leaf Media), Code3, Slate, Foreign Policy, Pinna and City Cast |
| (3) | Includes CRG, Decile and CyberVista |
Overall, revenue from other businesses declined 11% in 2023. Retail revenue declined largely due to significantly lower revenue at Society6, partially offset by revenue growth at Framebridge. Media revenue declined due to lower revenue at WGB and Code3, partially offset by revenue growth at Slate, Foreign Policy and City Cast. Specialty revenue increased due to revenue growth at CRG. Excluding the former Leaf businesses, revenues from other businesses increased in 2023.
Overall, operating results at other businesses improved in 2023 due largely to $129.0 million in goodwill and other long-lived assets impairment charges at the former Leaf businesses recorded in the fourth quarter of 2022, partially offset by a $50.2 million goodwill impairment charge recorded at WGB in the third quarter of 2023. Excluding these impairment charges, operating results declined in 2023, due to increased losses at the former Leaf businesses, Framebridge, Decile and City Cast, partially offset by improved results at Slate, Foreign Policy, CRG and Code3, and a reduction in losses due to the sales of CyberVista and Pinna.
Leaf Group
On June 14, 2021, the Company acquired Leaf Group Ltd. (Leaf), a consumer internet company, headquartered in Santa Monica, CA, that builds enduring, creator-driven brands that reach passionate audiences in large and growing lifestyle categories, including fitness and wellness (Well+Good and Livestrong.com), and home, art and design (Saatchi Art, Society6 and Hunker).
In the second quarter of 2023, the Company restructured Leaf into three stand-alone businesses: Society6 (formerly included in Leaf Marketplace), Saatchi Art (formerly included in Leaf Marketplace) and WGB (formerly Leaf Media). The transition process for this restructuring involves various cost reduction initiatives, including elimination of shared services costs and functions; transitioning financial and human resources systems; and rationalizing physical facilities and data centers. In the first and second quarters of 2023, Leaf implemented a SIP to reduce the number of employees, which was funded by the assets of the Company’s pension plan; $2.9 million and $3.9 million in related non-operating pension expense was recorded in the first and second quarters of 2023, respectively. Each of Society6, Saatchi Art and WGB is continuing with the transition and cost reduction process, which is expected to be largely completed by the end of the second quarter of 2024.
Revenues at each of the three Leaf businesses declined in 2023, with substantial declines at Society6 and WGB. Revenue decreases at Society6 are due to declines in traffic, conversion rates and related sales for both direct to consumer and business to business categories; revenue declines at WGB are due to reduced traffic and the soft digital advertising market for both direct and programmatic categories. Overall, the former Leaf businesses reported significant operating losses for 2023 and 2022. Excluding impairment charges, losses increased in 2023.
As a result of the substantial digital advertising revenue declines and continued significant operating losses at WGB, the Company recorded a $50.2 million goodwill impairment charge in the third quarter of 2023. As a result of the substantial revenue declines and significant operating losses at the former Leaf businesses in the fourth quarter of 2022, the Company recorded $129.0 million in goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges.
Clyde’s Restaurant Group
CRG owns and operates 12 restaurants and entertainment venues in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, including Old Ebbitt Grill and The Hamilton. Both revenues and operating results improved in 2023 due to strong guest traffic, modest price increases, and the absence of any significant adverse impact from the COVID-19 pandemic. Operating results in 2022 benefited from a favorable rent concession recorded in the second quarter of 2022.
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CRG plans to open new restaurants in Baltimore, MD; Washington, D.C.; and Reston, VA in mid 2024, late 2024 and late 2025, respectively.
Framebridge
Framebridge is a custom framing service company, headquartered in Washington, D.C., with 22 retail locations in the Washington, D.C., New York City, Atlanta, GA, Philadelphia, PA, Boston, MA and Chicago, IL areas and two manufacturing facilities in Kentucky and New Jersey. Framebridge continues to actively explore opportunities for further store expansion. Revenues increased in 2023 due to an increase in retail revenue from same-store sales growth and operating additional retail stores compared to the same periods of 2022. Framebridge is an investment stage business and reported significant operating losses in 2023 and 2022.
Other
Other businesses also include Code3, a performance marketing agency focused on driving performance for brands through three core elements of digital success: media, creative and commerce; Slate and Foreign Policy, which publish online and print magazines and websites; and two investment stage businesses, Decile and City Cast. Losses from City Cast, Decile and Code3 in 2023 adversely affected operating results, while Slate and Foreign Policy each reported an operating profit.
Other businesses also included Pinna, which was sold in June 2023 when the Company entered into a merger agreement with Realm of Possibility, Inc. (Realm), a provider of audio entertainment services, to merge Pinna with Realm in return for a noncontrolling financial interest in the merged entity. In connection with the merger, the Company recorded a $10.0 million non-cash, non-operating gain related to the transaction. The Company held a noncontrolling interest in Realm prior to the transaction and continues to hold a noncontrolling interest in Realm following the transaction. The Company’s investment in Realm is reported as an equity method investment.
Other businesses also included CyberVista, which was sold in October 2022 when the Company announced a strategic merger of CyberVista and CyberWire, a B2B cybersecurity audio network to form a new parent company, N2K Networks. In connection with the merger, the Company recorded an $18.4 million non-cash, non-operating gain. The Company’s investment in N2K Networks is reported as an equity method investment.
In the first and second quarters of 2023, Code3 implemented a SIP to reduce the number of employees, which was funded by the assets of the Company’s pension plan; $1.9 million in related non-operating pension expense was recorded in the first half of 2023.
Corporate Office
Corporate office includes the expenses of the Company’s corporate office, certain continuing obligations related to prior business dispositions, and a net credit recorded in each of 2023 and 2022 from fair value changes in contingent consideration related to the Framebridge acquisition.
Equity in Losses of Affiliates
At December 31, 2023, the Company held an approximate 18% interest in Intersection Holdings, LLC (Intersection), a company that provides digital marketing and advertising services and products for cities, transit systems, airports, and other public and private spaces; a 49.9% interest in N2K Networks on a fully diluted basis; and a 42.2% interest in Realm on a fully diluted basis. The Company also holds interests in several other affiliates, including a number of home health and hospice joint ventures managed by GHG and two joint ventures managed by Kaplan. Overall, the Company recorded equity in losses of affiliates of $5.2 million for 2023, compared to $2.8 million for 2022. These amounts include $16.0 million and $11.8 million in net losses for 2023 and 2022, respectively, from affiliates whose operations are not managed by the Company.
Net Interest Expense and Related Balances
In connection with the acquisition of the Toyota of Richmond dealership, in September 2023, the automotive subsidiary of the Company entered into a credit agreement with Truist Bank, which includes (i) a $75.2 million real estate term loan, (ii) a $65.0 million capital term loan, (iii) an undrawn $50.0 million delayed draw term loan available upon request and (iv) establishment of a revolving floor plan credit facility. Additionally, the automotive subsidiary entered into interest rate swaps to fix the interest rate that the Company will pay on the $75.2 million real estate term loan at 6.42% per annum. The proceeds from this borrowing were used to finance the acquisition of the Toyota of Richmond dealership and to repay the outstanding balance of the automotive subsidiary commercial notes that were maturing in 2031 and 2032. The related interest rate swaps were also terminated, resulting in a realized gain of $4.6 million recorded as a credit to interest expense during the third quarter of 2023.
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The Company incurred net interest expense of $56.2 million in 2023, compared to $51.2 million in 2022. The Company recorded net interest expense of $10.1 million and $16.5 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively, to adjust the fair value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest at GHG. Excluding these adjustments, the increase in net interest expense relates primarily to increased debt at the automotive dealerships and higher interest rates on the Company’s variable debt.
At December 31, 2023, the Company had $811.8 million in borrowings outstanding at an average interest rate of 6.4%, and cash, marketable equity securities and other investments of $898.9 million. At December 31, 2023, the Company had $97.9 million outstanding on its $300 million revolving credit facility. At December 31, 2022, the Company had $726.4 million in borrowings outstanding at an average interest rate of 5.7%, and cash, marketable equity securities and other investments of $812.8 million.
Non-Operating Pension and Postretirement Benefit Income, Net
The Company recorded net non-operating pension and postretirement benefit income of $133.8 million in 2023, compared to $197.9 million in 2022.
In the fourth quarter of 2023, the Company recorded $0.2 million in expenses related to a non-operating SIP at the television broadcasting division. In the second quarter of 2023, the Company recorded $5.5 million in expenses related to non-operating SIPs at other businesses and the education and television broadcasting divisions. In the first quarter of 2023, the Company recorded $4.1 million in expenses related to non-operating SIPs at other businesses. In the fourth quarter of 2022, the Company recorded $3.6 million in expenses related to a non-operating SIP at the education division.
Gain (Loss) on Marketable Equity Securities, Net
The Company recognized $138.1 million in net gains on marketable equity securities in 2023 compared to $139.6 million in net losses in 2022.
Other Non-Operating Income
The Company recorded total other non-operating income, net, of $19.1 million in 2023, compared to $33.5 million in 2022. The 2023 amounts included a non-cash gain of $10.0 million on the sale of Pinna; $5.6 million in gains related to sales of businesses and contingent consideration; a $3.1 million increase in the fair value of cost method investments; a $1.0 million gain on sales of cost method investments, and other items; partially offset by $1.1 million in foreign currency losses and a $0.5 million impairment on a cost method investment. The 2022 amounts included a non-cash gain of $18.4 million on the sale of CyberVista; $4.3 million in gains related to sales of businesses and contingent consideration; a $6.9 million increase in the fair value of cost method investments; $3.3 million in gains on sales of cost method investments; a $0.6 million gain on sale of an equity affiliate, and other items; partially offset by $2.0 million in foreign currency losses and a $1.3 million impairment on a cost method investment.
Provision for Income Taxes
The Company’s effective tax rates for 2023 and 2022 were 29.2% and 42.1%, respectively. The Company’s effective tax rates in 2023 and 2022 were unfavorably impacted by permanent differences related to the goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges and the interest expense recorded to adjust the fair value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest at GHG. Excluding the impact of these items, the overall income tax rates for 2023 and 2022 were 24.0% and 24.1%, respectively.
FINANCIAL CONDITION: LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The Company considers the following when assessing its liquidity and capital resources:
| As of December 31 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In thousands) | 2023 | 2022 | ||||
| Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 169,897 | $ | 169,319 | ||
| Restricted cash | 31,994 | 21,113 | ||||
| Investments in marketable equity securities and other investments | 697,028 | 622,408 | ||||
| Total debt | 811,833 | 726,360 |
Cash generated by operations is the Company’s primary source of liquidity. The Company maintains investments in a portfolio of marketable equity securities, which is considered when assessing the Company’s sources of liquidity. An additional source of liquidity includes the undrawn portion of the Company’s $300 million five-year revolving credit facility, amounting to $202.1 million at December 31, 2023.
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During 2023, the Company’s cash and cash equivalents increased by $0.6 million, due to cash generated from operations, proceeds from the sale of marketable equity securities, net proceeds from vehicle floor plan payable, and net borrowings, which were offset by share repurchases, acquisitions, capital expenditures, a loan to a related party, additional investments in marketable equity securities and equity affiliates, and dividend payments. In 2023, the Company’s borrowings increased by $85.5 million, primarily due to the issuance of the term loan and new loans at the automotive subsidiary, offset by repayments under the revolving credit facility and commercial notes at the automotive subsidiary.
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company had money market investments of $5.6 million and $7.7 million, that were included in cash and cash equivalents. At December 31, 2023, the Company held approximately $138 million in cash and cash equivalents in businesses domiciled outside the U.S., of which approximately $8 million is not available for immediate use in operations or for distribution. Additionally, Kaplan’s business operations outside the U.S. retain cash balances to support ongoing working capital requirements, capital expenditures, and regulatory requirements. As a result, the Company considers a significant portion of the cash and cash equivalents balance held outside the U.S. as not readily available for use in U.S. operations.
At December 31, 2023, the fair value of the Company’s investments in marketable equity securities was $690.2 million, which includes investments in the common stock of four publicly traded companies. The Company purchased $4.6 million of marketable equity securities during 2023, excluding $1.5 million that was purchased in December 2022, but settled in January 2023. During 2023, the Company sold marketable equity securities that generated proceeds of $62.0 million. At December 31, 2023, the net unrealized gain related to the Company’s investments totaled $464.2 million.
In April 2023, the Company entered into a term note agreement to loan Intersection $30.0 million at an interest rate of 9% per annum. The principal and interest on the note are payable in monthly installments over 5 years with the final payment due by May 2028. The outstanding balance on this loan was $28.8 million as of December 31, 2023.
The Company had working capital of $619.6 million and $534.1 million at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The Company maintains working capital levels consistent with its underlying business requirements and consistently generates cash from operations in excess of required interest or principal payments.
At December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company had borrowings outstanding of $811.8 million and $726.4 million, respectively. The Company’s borrowings at December 31, 2023 were mostly from $400.0 million of 5.75% unsecured notes due June 1, 2026, $97.9 million in outstanding borrowings under the Company’s revolving credit facility, a term loan of $147.5 million, and real estate and capital term loans of $137.6 million at the automotive subsidiary. The Company’s borrowings at December 31, 2022 were mostly from $400.0 million of 5.75% unsecured notes due June 1, 2026, $200.2 million in outstanding borrowings under the Company’s revolving credit facility and commercial notes of $116.6 million at the automotive subsidiary. The interest on the $400.0 million of 5.75% unsecured notes is payable semi-annually on June 1 and December 1.
On July 28, 2023, the Company entered into a $150 million term loan with each of the lenders party thereto, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A., Bank of America, N.A., HSBC Bank USA, N.A., and PNC Bank, N.A. The term loan is payable in quarterly installments of $1.875 million which started in December 2023 with a final payment of the principal balance due on May 30, 2027. The term loan bears interest at variable rates based on Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) plus 1.75% per annum. The Company may redeem the term loan in whole or in part with no penalty at any time. The existing financial covenants of the credit agreement governing the revolving credit facility are unchanged following the addition of the term loan.
On September 26, 2023, the Company’s automotive subsidiary entered into a credit agreement with Truist Bank, which includes (i) a $75.2 million real estate term loan, (ii) a $65.0 million capital term loan, (iii) a $50.0 million delayed draw term loan, and (iv) establishment of a revolving floor plan credit facility. The real estate term loan is payable in monthly installments of $0.3 million and bears interest at variable rates based on SOFR plus 1.75% per annum, and the capital term loan is payable in monthly installments of $0.5 million and bears interest at variable rates based on SOFR plus 2.00% per annum. The monthly installment payments on the real estate and capital term loans commenced on November 1, 2023, with final payments of the outstanding principal balances due on September 26, 2028. Subject to terms and conditions set forth in the credit agreement, the automotive subsidiary may also request borrowings of delayed draw term loans for which the proceeds may be used to (i) finance the acquisition of automobile dealerships (delayed draw capital loan) and (ii) finance the acquisition of real estate (delayed draw real estate loan). The delayed draw term loan bears interest at variable rates based on SOFR plus an applicable margin based on the type of delayed draw term loan requested. The delayed draw term loan availability period terminates on September 26, 2025. The automotive subsidiary did not borrow against the delayed draw term loan as of December 31, 2023.
On the same date, the Company’s automotive subsidiary entered into three interest rate swap agreements with a total notional value of $75.2 million and a maturity date of September 26, 2028. The interest rate swap agreements
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will pay the automotive subsidiary interest on the $75.2 million notional amount based on SOFR and the automotive subsidiary will pay the counterparty a fixed rate of 4.67% per annum. The new interest rate swap agreements were entered into to convert the variable rate borrowing under the real estate term loan into a fixed rate borrowing. Based on the terms of the new interest rate swap agreements and underlying borrowings, the new interest rate swaps were determined to be effective and thus qualify as cash flow hedges. Including a 1.75% applicable margin, the overall interest rate that the Company will pay on the $75.2 million real estate term loan is fixed at 6.42% per annum.
The automotive subsidiary used the net proceeds from the real estate and capital term loans to finance the acquisition of the Toyota of Richmond dealership and to repay the outstanding balances of the commercial notes maturing in 2031 and 2032. The interest rate swap agreements maturing in 2031 and 2032 were also terminated resulting in realized gains of $4.6 million that reduced interest expense during the third quarter of 2023.
During 2023 and 2022, the Company had average borrowings outstanding of approximately $745.0 million and $689.9 million, respectively, at average annual interest rates of approximately 6.1% and 4.8%, respectively. The Company incurred net interest expense of $56.2 million and $51.2 million, respectively, during 2023 and 2022. Included in the 2023 and 2022 interest expense is $10.1 million and $16.5 million, respectively, to adjust the fair value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest (see Note 11).
On August 17, 2023, Moody’s affirmed the Company’s credit rating and maintained the outlook as Stable. On April 4, 2023, Standard & Poor’s affirmed the Company’s credit rating and maintained the outlook as Stable.
The Company’s current credit ratings are as follows:
| Moody’s | Standard & Poor’s | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Long-term | Ba1 | BB | |
| Outlook | Stable | Stable |
The Company expects to fund its estimated capital needs primarily through existing cash balances and internally generated funds, and, as needed, from borrowings under its revolving credit facility. As of December 31, 2023, the Company had $97.9 million outstanding under the $300 million revolving credit facility. In management’s opinion, the Company will have sufficient financial resources to meet its business requirements in the next 12 months, including working capital requirements, capital expenditures, interest payments, potential acquisitions and strategic investments, dividends and stock repurchases.
In summary, the Company’s cash flows for each period were as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In thousands) | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | |||||||
| Net cash provided by operating activities | $ | 259,875 | $ | 235,604 | $ | 202,426 | ||||
| Net cash used in investing activities | (152,975) | (184,066) | (494,635) | |||||||
| Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities | (99,835) | (18,107) | 31,027 | |||||||
| Effect of currency exchange rate change | 4,394 | (1,842) | (3,029) | |||||||
| Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash | $ | 11,459 | $ | 31,589 | $ | (264,211) |
Operating Activities. Cash provided by operating activities is net income adjusted for certain non-cash items and changes in assets and liabilities. The Company’s net cash flow provided by operating activities were as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In thousands) | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | |||||||
| Net Income | $ | 211,704 | $ | 70,434 | $ | 353,327 | ||||
| Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: | ||||||||||
| Depreciation, amortization and goodwill and other long-lived asset impairment | 235,169 | 261,138 | 162,225 | |||||||
| Amortization of lease right-of-use asset | 67,734 | 67,568 | 73,752 | |||||||
| Net pension benefit and special separation benefit expense | (101,398) | (166,611) | (91,898) | |||||||
| Other non-cash activities | (84,399) | 130,230 | (183,742) | |||||||
| Change in operating assets and liabilities | (68,935) | (127,155) | (111,238) | |||||||
| Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities | $ | 259,875 | $ | 235,604 | $ | 202,426 |
Net cash provided by operating activities consists primarily of cash receipts from customers, less disbursements for costs, benefits, income taxes, interest and other expenses.
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For 2023 compared to 2022, the increase in net cash provided by operating activities is primarily due to changes in operating assets and liabilities, partially offset by lower net income, net of non-cash adjustments. Changes in operating assets and liabilities were primarily driven by increases in accounts payable and accrued liabilities. The change in non-cash activities is largely the result of fluctuations in the share prices of the Company’s investments in marketable equity securities with gains in 2023 compared to losses in 2022.
For 2022 compared to 2021, the increase in net cash provided by operating activities is primarily due to higher net income, net of non-cash adjustments, partially offset by changes in operating assets and liabilities. Changes in operating assets and liabilities were driven by higher purchases of inventories and decreases in accounts payable and accrued liabilities, partially offset by an increase in the collection of accounts receivable.
Investing Activities. The Company’s net cash flow used in investing activities were as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In thousands) | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | |||||||
| Purchases of property, plant and equipment | $ | (93,447) | $ | (82,684) | $ | (162,537) | ||||
| Investments in certain businesses, net of cash acquired | (78,149) | (130,106) | (351,882) | |||||||
| Net proceeds from sales of marketable equity securities | 55,817 | 61,522 | 17,463 | |||||||
| Loan to related party | (30,000) | — | — | |||||||
| Investments in equity affiliates, cost method and other investments | (14,050) | (38,894) | (8,531) | |||||||
| Other | 6,854 | 6,096 | 10,852 | |||||||
| Net Cash Used in Investing Activities | $ | (152,975) | $ | (184,066) | $ | (494,635) |
Capital Expenditures. The 2023 and 2022 capital expenditures are lower than 2021 due to significant land and building purchases at Kaplan International’s sixth-form college in London, U.K. and at the automotive subsidiary in 2021. The amounts reflected in the Company’s Statements of Cash Flows are based on cash payments made during the relevant periods, whereas the Company’s capital expenditures for 2023, 2022 and 2021 disclosed in Note 19 to the Consolidated Financial Statements include assets acquired during the year. The Company estimates that its capital expenditures will be in the range of $95 million to $105 million in 2024.
Acquisitions. During 2023, the Company acquired five businesses: one in automotive, three small businesses in healthcare and one in other businesses for $83.3 million in cash and contingent consideration and the assumption of floor plan payables. In September 2023, the Company’s automotive subsidiary acquired a Toyota automotive dealership, including the real property for the dealership operations. In addition to a cash payment and the assumption of $2.2 million in floor plan payables, the automotive subsidiary borrowed $37.0 million to finance the acquisition. During 2022, the Company acquired seven businesses: five in healthcare and two in automotive, for $143.2 million in cash and contingent consideration and the assumption of floor plan payables. GHG acquired two small businesses in August 2022, a 100% interest in a multi-state provider of Applied Behavioral Analysis clinics in July 2022, and two small businesses in May 2022. In July 2022, the Company’s automotive subsidiary acquired two automotive dealerships, including the real property for the dealership operations. In addition to a cash payment and the assumption of $10.9 million in floor plan payables, the automotive subsidiary borrowed $77.4 million to finance the acquisition. During 2021, the Company acquired six businesses: two small businesses in its education division, two small businesses in healthcare, one new auto dealership in automotive, and all the outstanding shares of Leaf for cash and the assumption of $9.2 million in liabilities related to their pre-acquisition stock compensation plan. Leaf operations are included in other businesses.
Net Proceeds from Sales of Marketable Equity Securities. During 2023, 2022 and 2021, the Company sold marketable securities that generated proceeds of $62.0 million, $102.0 million and $65.5 million, respectively. The Company purchased $4.6 million, $42.1 million, of which $1.5 million was settled in January 2023, and $48.0 million of marketable equity securities during 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
Loan to related party. In April 2023, the Company entered into a term note agreement to loan Intersection $30.0 million at an interest rate of 9% per annum. The principal and interest on the note are payable in monthly installments over 5 years with the final payment due by May 2028. The outstanding balance on this loan was $28.8 million as of December 31, 2023.
Investment in Equity Affiliates. During 2023, the Company made additional investments in Intersection and Realm. During 2022, GHG invested an additional $18.5 million in two affiliates to fund their acquisition of an interest in a health system in Illinois and the Company also made an additional investment of $5.0 million in N2K Networks, the new parent entity formed through the CyberVista transaction.
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Financing Activities. The Company’s net cash flow (used in) provided by financing activities were as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In thousands) | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | |||||||
| Issuance of borrowings, net | $ | 171,643 | $ | 62,815 | $ | 20,539 | ||||
| Net borrowing under revolving credit facilities | (104,244) | 3,000 | 134,696 | |||||||
| Net proceeds from (repayments of) vehicle floor plan payable | 73,732 | 26,230 | (10,563) | |||||||
| Common shares repurchased | (193,160) | (71,386) | (55,683) | |||||||
| Dividends paid | (30,953) | (30,712) | (30,136) | |||||||
| Other | (16,853) | (8,054) | (27,826) | |||||||
| Net Cash (Used in) Provided by Financing Activities | $ | (99,835) | $ | (18,107) | $ | 31,027 |
Borrowings and Vehicle Floor Plan Payable. In September 2023, the Company’s automotive subsidiary entered into a credit agreement with Truist Bank which includes (i) a $75.2 million real estate term loan, (ii) a $65.0 million capital term loan, (iii) a $50.0 million delayed draw term loan, and (iv) establishment of a revolving floor plan credit facility. The automotive subsidiary used the net proceeds from the real estate and capital term loans to acquire an automotive dealership, including the real property for the dealership operations, and to repay the outstanding balances of the commercial notes maturing in 2031 and 2032. On July 28, 2023, the Company entered into a $150 million term loan and used the proceeds to repay the U.S. dollar borrowings of the $300 million revolving credit facility. In July 2022, the Company’s automotive subsidiary amended its commercial note to, among other things, increase the aggregate loan amount to $71.6 million and entered into three commercial notes in an aggregate amount of $27.2 million. The additional borrowings were used to acquire two automotive dealerships, including the real property for the dealership operations. In 2021, the Company borrowed against the $300 million revolving credit facility, which borrowing was used to purchase land and buildings at Kaplan International’s sixth-form college in London, U.K. and at the automotive subsidiary and, to a lesser extent, to repurchase stock and fund various acquisitions during the fourth quarter of 2021. In addition, the automotive subsidiary borrowed $47.3 million, which was used to repay the outstanding balance of the term loan due on January 31, 2029 and fund the acquisition of an automotive dealership in the fourth quarter. In 2023, 2022, and 2021, the Company used vehicle floor plan financing to fund the purchase of new, used and service loaner vehicles at its automotive subsidiary. The proceeds from (repayments of) the vehicle floor plan payable fluctuates with changes in the amount of vehicle inventory held by the automotive dealerships.
Common Stock Repurchases. During 2023, 2022, and 2021, the Company purchased a total of 325,134, 121,761, and 93,969 shares, respectively, of its Class B common stock at a cost of approximately $195.0 million, $71.4 million, and $55.7 million, respectively, including commissions and accrued excise tax of $1.8 million for 2023 purchases. On May 4, 2023, the Board of Directors authorized the Company to acquire up to 500,000 shares of its Class B common stock. The Company did not announce a ceiling price or time limit for the purchases. At December 31, 2023, the Company had remaining authorization from the Board of Directors to purchase up to 236,403 shares of Class B common stock.
Dividends. The annual dividend rate per share was $6.60, $6.32 and $6.04 in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. The Company expects to pay a dividend of $6.88 per share in 2024.
Other. In 2023 and 2022, the Company paid $5.3 million and $5.7 million related to contingent consideration and deferred payments from prior acquisitions. In 2021, the Company paid $30.9 million related to contingent consideration and deferred payments from prior acquisitions, mostly for the 2020 acquisition of Framebridge. In December 2023, the Company acquired some of the minority-owned shares of CSI for a total amount of $20.0 million. The Company paid cash of $5.0 million and entered into a promissory note with the minority owners for the remaining $15.0 million. In March 2021, Hoover’s minority shareholders put their remaining outstanding shares to the Company, which had a redemption value of $3.5 million.
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Contractual Obligations. The following reflects a summary of the Company’s contractual obligations as of December 31, 2023:
| (in thousands) | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 | 2027 | 2028 | Thereafter | Total | |||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Debt and interest | $ | 83,831 | $ | 72,590 | $ | 459,371 | $ | 250,287 | $ | 103,078 | $ | 546 | $ | 969,703 | ||||||||||||
| Finance leases | 17,960 | 5,194 | 1,702 | 22 | 11 | — | 24,889 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Operating leases | 118,222 | 70,072 | 62,262 | 55,687 | 45,485 | 272,850 | 624,578 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Television broadcasting commitments (1) | 86,073 | 77,998 | 43,573 | 4,140 | 1,081 | — | 212,865 | |||||||||||||||||||
| IT software and services | 21,014 | 10,512 | 7,831 | 2,628 | 1,948 | — | 43,933 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Other purchase obligations (2) | 32,661 | 13,453 | 13,288 | 8,689 | 8,888 | 47,792 | 124,771 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Long-term liabilities (3) | 2,349 | 2,287 | 2,252 | 2,240 | 2,212 | 4,993 | 16,333 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Total | $ | 362,110 | $ | 252,106 | $ | 590,279 | $ | 323,693 | $ | 162,703 | $ | 326,181 | $ | 2,017,072 |
___________________
(1) Includes network fees, employment agreements and programming purchase commitments for the Company’s television broadcasting business.
(2) Includes purchase obligations related to capital projects and other legally binding commitments. Other purchase orders made in the ordinary course of business are excluded from the table above. Any amounts for which the Company is liable under purchase orders are reflected in the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets as accounts payable and accrued liabilities.
(3) Primarily made up of multiemployer pension plan withdrawal obligations and postretirement benefit obligations other than pensions. The Company has other long-term liabilities excluded from the table above, including obligations for deferred compensation, long-term incentive plans and long-term deferred revenue.
Other. The Company does not have any off-balance-sheet arrangements or financing activities with special-purpose entities.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and judgments that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements. On an ongoing basis, the Company evaluates its estimates and assumptions. The Company bases its estimates on historical experience and other assumptions believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
An accounting policy is considered critical if it is important to the Company’s financial condition and results and if it requires management’s most difficult, subjective and complex judgments in its application. For a summary of all of the Company’s significant accounting policies, see Note 2 to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements.
Revenue Recognition, Trade Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Credit Losses. Education revenue is primarily derived from postsecondary education services, professional education and test preparation services. Revenue, net of any refunds, corporate discounts, scholarships and employee tuition discounts is recognized ratably over the instruction period or access period for higher education and supplemental education services.
At Kaplan International and Kaplan Supplemental Education, estimates of average student course length are developed for each course, along with estimates for the anticipated level of student drops and refunds from test performance guarantees, and these estimates are evaluated on an ongoing basis and adjusted as necessary. As Kaplan’s businesses and related course offerings have changed, including more online programs, the complexity and significance of management’s estimates have increased.
KHE provides non-academic operations support services to Purdue Global pursuant to a TOSA, which includes technology support, helpdesk functions, human resources support for faculty and employees, admissions support, financial aid administration, advertising, back-office business functions, and certain student recruitment services. KHE is not entitled to receive any reimbursement of costs incurred in providing support services, or any fee, unless and until Purdue Global has first covered all of its academic costs (subject to a cap), received payment for cost efficiencies, if any, and during the first five years of the TOSA, receive a priority payment of $10 million per year in addition to the operating cost reimbursements and cost efficiency payments. KHE will receive reimbursement for its operating costs of providing the support services after payment of Purdue Global’s operating costs, cost efficiency payments, and priority payment. If there are sufficient revenues, KHE may be entitled to a cost efficiency payment, if any, and an additional fee equal to 12.5% of Purdue Global’s revenue. Subject to certain limitations, a portion of the fee that is earned by KHE in one year may be carried over to subsequent years for payment to Kaplan.
The support fee and reimbursement for KHE support costs are entirely dependent on the availability of cash at the end of Purdue Global’s fiscal year (June 30), and therefore, all consideration in the contract is variable. The Company uses significant judgment to forecast the operating results of Purdue Global, the availability of cash at the end of each fiscal year, and the consideration it expects to receive from Purdue Global annually. Key assumptions used in the forecast model include student census and degree enrollment data, Purdue Global and KHE expenses, changes to working capital, contractually stipulated minimum payments, and lead conversion rates. The forecast is updated as uncertainties are resolved. The Company reviews and updates the assumptions regularly, as a
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significant change in one or more of these estimates could affect the revenue recognized. Changes to the estimated variable consideration were not material for the year ended December 31, 2023.
A Kaplan International business has a contract with an examination body through August 2029 comprised of two performance obligations, one to build and create a professional exam and another to manage the delivery of that exam to qualified candidates. The first obligation was completed in 2021. The second obligation began after the first obligation was completed and is expected to continue through the end of the contract term. Revenues are recognized for both of these obligations by allocating the transaction price based on forecasted financial results and the use of a market-based profit margin applied to costs incurred during the financial reporting period. This profit margin, determined at contract inception, is different for each obligation as a result of the different value created by each distinct obligation. The forecast, including key assumptions such as expected candidate volumes and related exam-management expenses, is updated as future uncertainties are resolved, which may result in changes to the transaction price. The Company reviews and updates the assumptions regularly, as a significant change in one or more of these estimates could affect revenue recognized. Changes to the estimated variable consideration were not material for the year ended December 31, 2023.
The determination of whether revenue should be reported on a gross or net basis is based on an assessment of whether the Company acts as a principal or an agent in the transaction. In certain cases, the Company is considered the agent, and the Company records revenue equal to the net amount retained when the fee is earned. In these cases, costs incurred with third-party suppliers are excluded from the Company’s revenue. The Company assesses whether it obtained control of the specified goods or services before they are transferred to the customer as part of this assessment. In addition, the Company considers other indicators such as the party primarily responsible for fulfillment, inventory risk and discretion in establishing price.
Accounts receivable have been reduced by an allowance that reflects the current expected credit losses associated with the receivables. This estimated allowance is based on historical write-offs, current macroeconomic conditions, reasonable and supportable forecasts of future economic conditions and management’s evaluation of the financial condition of the customer. The Company generally considers an account past due or delinquent when a student or customer misses a scheduled payment. The Company writes off accounts receivable balances deemed uncollectible against the allowance for credit losses following the passage of a certain period of time, or generally when the account is turned over for collection to an outside collection agency.
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. The Company has a significant amount of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets that are reviewed at least annually for possible impairment.
| As of December 31 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in millions) | 2023 | 2022 | ||||
| Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets | $ | 1,713.1 | $ | 1,739.9 | ||
| Total assets | 7,187.7 | 6,553.4 | ||||
| Percentage of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets to total assets | 24 | % | 27 | % |
The Company performs its annual goodwill and intangible assets impairment test as of November 30. Goodwill and other intangible assets are reviewed for possible impairment between annual tests if an event occurred or circumstances changed that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of the reporting unit or other intangible assets below its carrying value.
Goodwill
The Company tests its goodwill at the reporting unit level, which is an operating segment or one level below an operating segment. The Company initially performs an assessment of qualitative factors to determine if it is necessary to perform a quantitative goodwill impairment test. The Company quantitatively tests goodwill for impairment if, based on its assessment of the qualitative factors, it determines that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, or if it decides to bypass the qualitative assessment. The quantitative goodwill impairment test compares the estimated fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. An impairment charge is recognized for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value.
The Company performed an interim impairment review of goodwill at the Dekko and WGB reporting units in the third quarter of 2023 as a result of continued sustained weakness in demand for certain Dekko power and data products, primarily in the commercial office space market, and substantial digital advertising revenue declines and continued significant operating losses at WGB. The Company recorded a $47.8 million and $50.2 million goodwill impairment charge at the Dekko and WGB reporting units, respectively, as a result of the interim impairment reviews. The Company estimated the fair value of the reporting units by utilizing a discounted cash flow model. The carrying value of each reporting unit exceeded its estimated fair value, resulting in a goodwill impairment charge for the amount by which the carrying value exceeded the estimated fair value after taking into account the effect of deferred
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income taxes. As a result of the impairment charge, no goodwill remains at the Dekko reporting unit. Dekko is included in manufacturing and WGB in other businesses.
The Company had 20 reporting units as of December 31, 2023. The reporting units with significant goodwill balances as of December 31, 2023, were as follows, representing 94% of the total goodwill of the Company:
| (in millions) | Goodwill | |
|---|---|---|
| Education | ||
| Kaplan international | $ | 598.0 |
| Higher education | 63.2 | |
| Supplemental education | 171.6 | |
| Television broadcasting | 190.8 | |
| Healthcare | 135.0 | |
| Automotive | 129.3 | |
| Hoover | 91.3 | |
| Framebridge | 60.9 | |
| Total | $ | 1,440.1 |
As of November 30, 2023, in connection with the Company’s annual impairment testing, the Company decided to perform the quantitative goodwill impairment process at all of the reporting units. The Company’s policy requires the performance of a quantitative impairment review of the goodwill at least once every three years. The Company used a discounted cash flow model, and, where appropriate, a market value approach was also utilized to supplement the discounted cash flow model to determine the estimated fair value of its reporting units. The Company made estimates and assumptions regarding future cash flows, discount rates, long-term growth rates and market values to determine each reporting unit’s estimated fair value. The methodology used to estimate the fair value of the Company’s reporting units on November 30, 2023, was consistent with the one used during the 2022 annual goodwill impairment test.
The Company made changes to certain of its assumptions utilized in the discounted cash flow models for 2023 compared with the prior year to take into account changes in the economic environment, regulations and their impact on the Company’s businesses. The key assumptions used by the Company were as follows:
• Expected cash flows underlying the Company’s business plans for the periods 2024 through 2028 were used. The Company used expected cash flows for the periods 2024 through 2033 for the Hoover and Framebridge reporting units. The expected cash flows took into account historical growth rates, the effect of the changed economic outlook at the Company’s businesses, industry challenges and an estimate for the possible impact of any applicable regulations.
• Cash flows beyond 2028 and 2033, where applicable, were projected to grow at a long-term growth rate, which the Company estimated between 1.5% and 3% for each reporting unit.
• The Company used a discount rate of 9% to 22% to risk adjust the cash flow projections in determining the estimated fair value.
The fair value of each of the reporting units exceeded its respective carrying value as of November 30, 2023.
The estimated fair values of the Framebridge and WGB reporting units exceeded their carrying values by a margin of less than 25%. The Company recorded goodwill impairments at the WGB reporting unit in 2023 and 2022. The total goodwill at these reporting units was $68.4 million as of December 31, 2023, or 4% of the total goodwill of the Company. There exists a reasonable possibility that a decrease in the assumed projected cash flows or long-term growth rate, or an increase in the discount rate assumption used in the discounted cash flow model of these reporting units, could result in additional impairment charges.
The estimated fair value of the Company’s other reporting units with significant goodwill balances exceeded their respective carrying values by a margin in excess of 25%. It is possible that impairment charges could occur in the future, as changes in market conditions and the inherent variability in projecting future operating performance could result in adverse changes in projections for future operating results or other key assumptions, such as projected revenue, profit margin, capital expenditures or cash flows associated with fair value estimates and could lead to additional future impairments, which could be material.
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
The Company initially assesses qualitative factors to determine if it is more likely than not that the fair value of its indefinite-lived intangible assets is less than its carrying value. The Company compares the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset with its carrying value if the qualitative factors indicate it is more likely than not that
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the fair value of the asset is less than its carrying value or if it decides to bypass the qualitative assessment. The Company records an impairment loss if the carrying value of the indefinite-lived intangible assets exceeds the fair value of the assets for the difference in the values. The Company uses a discounted cash flow model, and, in certain cases, a market value approach is also utilized to supplement the discounted cash flow model to determine the estimated fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible assets. The Company makes estimates and assumptions regarding future cash flows, discount rates, long-term growth rates and other market values to determine the estimated fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible assets. The Company’s policy requires the performance of a quantitative impairment review of the indefinite-lived intangible assets at least once every three years.
The Company’s intangible assets with an indefinite life are principally from trade names, franchise rights and FCC licenses. The fair value of all the indefinite-lived intangible assets exceeded their respective carrying values as of November 30, 2023. The estimated fair values of indefinite-lived intangible assets with a total carrying value of $74.0 million exceeded their carrying value by a margin of less than 10%. There exists a reasonable possibility that impairment charges could occur in the future, as changes in market conditions and the inherent variability in projecting future operating performance could result in adverse changes in projections for future operating results or other key assumptions, such as projected revenue, profit margin, capital expenditures or cash flows associated with fair value estimates and could lead to future impairments, which could be material.
Pension Costs. The Company sponsors a defined benefit pension plan for eligible employees in the U.S. Excluding curtailment gains, settlement gains and special termination benefits, the Company’s net pension credit was $111.3 million, $170.2 million and $93.0 million for 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. The Company’s pension benefit obligation and related credits are actuarially determined and are significantly impacted by the Company’s assumptions related to future events, including the discount rate, expected return on plan assets and rate of compensation increases. The Company evaluates these critical assumptions at least annually and, periodically, evaluates other assumptions involving demographic factors, such as retirement age, mortality and turnover, and updates them to reflect its experience and expectations for the future. Actual results in any given year will often differ from actuarial assumptions because of economic and other factors.
The Company assumed a 6.25% expected return on plan assets for 2023, 2022 and 2021. The Company’s actual return (loss) on plan assets was 23.2% in 2023, (23.4%) in 2022 and 24.4% in 2021. The 10-year and 20-year actual returns on plan assets on an annual basis were 7.7% and 8.9%, respectively.
Accumulated and projected benefit obligations are measured as the present value of future cash payments. The Company discounts those cash payments using the weighted average of market-observed yields for high-quality fixed-income securities with maturities that correspond to the payment of benefits. Lower discount rates increase present values and generally increase subsequent-year pension costs; higher discount rates decrease present values and decrease subsequent-year pension costs. The Company’s discount rate at December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, was 5.2%, 5.5% and 2.9%, respectively, reflecting market interest rates.
Changes in key assumptions for the Company’s pension plan would have had the following effects on the 2023 pension credit, excluding curtailment gains, settlement gains and special termination benefits:
• Expected return on assets – A 1% increase or decrease to the Company’s assumed expected return on plan assets would have increased or decreased the pension credit by approximately $24.5 million.
• Discount rate – A 1% decrease to the Company’s assumed discount rate would have decreased the pension credit by approximately $8.7 million. A 1% increase to the Company’s assumed discount rate would have increased the pension credit by approximately $7.2 million.
The Company’s net pension credit includes an expected return on plan assets component, calculated using the expected return on plan assets assumption applied to a market-related value of plan assets. The market-related value of plan assets is determined using a five-year average market value method, which recognizes realized and unrealized appreciation and depreciation in market values over a five-year period. The value resulting from applying this method is adjusted, if necessary, such that it cannot be less than 80% or more than 120% of the market value of plan assets as of the relevant measurement date. As a result, year-to-year increases or decreases in the market-related value of plan assets impact the return on plan assets component of pension credit for the year.
At the end of each year, differences between the actual return on plan assets and the expected return on plan assets are combined with other differences in actual versus expected experience to form a net unamortized actuarial gain or loss in accumulated other comprehensive income. Only those net actuarial gains or losses in excess of the deferred realized and unrealized appreciation and depreciation are potentially subject to amortization.
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The types of items that generate actuarial gains and losses that may be subject to amortization in net periodic pension (credit) cost include the following:
• Asset returns that are more or less than the expected return on plan assets for the year;
• Actual participant demographic experience different from assumed (retirements, terminations and deaths during the year);
• Actual salary increases different from assumed; and
• Any changes in assumptions that are made to better reflect the anticipated experience of the plan or to reflect current market conditions on the measurement date (discount rate, longevity increases, changes in expected participant behavior and expected return on plan assets).
Amortization of the unrecognized actuarial gain or loss is included as a component of pension credit for a year if the magnitude of the net unamortized gain or loss in accumulated other comprehensive income exceeds 10% of the greater of the benefit obligation or the market-related value of assets (10% corridor). The amortization component is equal to that excess divided by the average remaining service period of active employees expected to receive benefits under the plan. At the end of 2020, the Company had net unamortized actuarial gains in accumulated other comprehensive income subject to amortization outside the 10% corridor, and therefore, an amortized gain of $7.9 million was included in the pension credit for 2021.
During 2021, there were significant pension asset gains and an increase in the discount rate that resulted in net unamortized actuarial gains in accumulated other comprehensive income subject to amortization outside the 10% corridor, and therefore, an amortized gain of $68.7 million was included in the pension credit for 2022.
During 2022, there were significant pension asset losses partially offset by an increase in the discount rate that resulted in net unamortized actuarial gains in accumulated other comprehensive income subject to amortization outside the 10% corridor, and therefore, an amortized gain of $39.8 million was included in the pension credit for 2023.
During 2023, there were significant pension asset gains partially offset by a decrease in the discount rate. The Company currently estimates that there will be net unamortized actuarial gains in accumulated other comprehensive income subject to amortization outside the 10% corridor, and therefore, an amortized gain amount of $50.1 million is included in the estimated pension credit for 2024.
Overall, the Company estimates that it will record a net pension credit of approximately $118.0 million in 2024.
Note 15 to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements provides additional details surrounding pension costs and related assumptions.
Accounting for Income Taxes.
Valuation Allowances
Deferred income taxes arise from temporary differences between the tax and financial statement recognition of assets and liabilities. In evaluating its ability to recover deferred tax assets within the jurisdiction from which they arise, the Company considers all available positive and negative evidence, including scheduled reversals of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, tax planning strategies and recent financial operations. These assumptions require significant judgment about forecasts of future taxable income.
As of December 31, 2023, the Company had state income tax net operating loss carryforwards of $1,106.9 million, which will expire at various future dates. Also at December 31, 2023, the Company had $112.7 million of non-U.S. income tax loss carryforwards, of which $63.4 million may be carried forward indefinitely; $45.1 million of losses that, if unutilized, will expire in varying amounts through 2028; and $4.2 million of losses that, if unutilized, will start to expire after 2028. At December 31, 2023, the Company has established approximately $66.3 million in total valuation allowances, primarily against deferred state tax assets, net of U.S. Federal income taxes, and non-U.S. deferred tax assets, as the Company believes that it is more likely than not that the benefit from certain state and non-U.S. net operating loss carryforwards and other deferred tax assets will not be realized. The Company has established valuation allowances against state income tax benefits recognized, without considering potentially offsetting deferred tax liabilities established with respect to prepaid pension cost and goodwill. Prepaid pension cost and goodwill have not been considered a source of future taxable income for realizing deferred tax benefits recognized since these temporary differences are not likely to reverse in the foreseeable future. However, certain deferred state tax assets have an indefinite life. As a result, the Company has considered deferred tax liabilities for prepaid pension cost and goodwill as a source of future taxable income for realizing those deferred state tax assets. The valuation allowances established against state and non-U.S. income tax benefits recorded may increase or
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decrease within the next 12 months, based on operating results, the market value of investment holdings or business and tax planning strategies; as a result, the Company is unable to estimate the potential tax impact, given the uncertain operating and market environment. The Company will be monitoring future operating results and projected future operating results on a quarterly basis to determine whether the valuation allowances provided against state and non-U.S. deferred tax assets should be increased or decreased, as future circumstances warrant.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements. See Note 2 to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of recent accounting pronouncements.
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FY 2022 10-K MD&A
SEC filing source: 0000104889-23-000021.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND FINANCIAL CONDITION
This analysis should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and the notes thereto. Refer to Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in the Graham Holdings Company’s 2021 Annual Report on Form 10-K for management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to the year ended December 31, 2020.
OVERVIEW
Graham Holdings Company (the Company) is a diversified holding company whose operations include educational services, television broadcasting, manufacturing, healthcare and automotive dealerships. The Company has seven reportable segments and a group of companies that make up Other Businesses. The Company’s business units are diverse and subject to different trends and risks.
Education is the largest operating division of the Company, making up 36% of the Company’s consolidated revenues in 2022. Through its subsidiary Kaplan, Inc., the Company provides extensive worldwide education services for individuals, schools and businesses. The Company has devoted significant resources and attention to this division for many years, given its geographic and product diversity, the investment opportunities and growth prospects during this time, and challenges related to government regulation. Kaplan is organized into the following three operating segments: Kaplan International, Kaplan Higher Education (KHE) and Supplemental Education.
Kaplan International reported revenue growth for 2022 due largely to increases at Languages and Pathways, partially offset by a decline at Singapore. Kaplan International operating results improved in 2022 due to a reduction in losses at Languages and improved results at Pathways and UK Professional. KHE revenue declined in 2022, due to lower costs incurred for reimbursement under the Purdue University Global (Purdue Global) agreement. KHE operating results were flat in 2022 as growth from Purdue Global fees was offset by increased investment costs. Supplemental Education revenues and operating results declined in 2022 due largely to a reduction in retail comprehensive test preparation demand; demand for professional programs remained stable.
The Company’s second largest business is television broadcasting. The Company’s television broadcasting division reported higher revenues and operating income in 2022, due largely to significant political advertising revenue from the 2022 election cycle. Retransmission revenues, net of network fee expense, trended down slightly in 2022 with this trend expected to continue in the future due largely to adverse subscriber trends from cord cutting. In recent years, the television broadcasting division has consistently generated significantly higher operating income amounts and operating income margins than the education division and the Company’s other reporting segments.
The Company’s manufacturing division has provided meaningful operating cash flow over the last few years, despite reduced demand due to the COVID-19 pandemic at certain businesses. Graham Healthcare Group (GHG) has grown substantially over the last few years and provided meaningful operating cash flow from acquisitions and internal growth. GHG has expanded from its home health and hospice operations into new lines of business, largely from significant growth at CSI Pharmacy Holding Company, which provides nursing care and prescription services for patients receiving in-home infusion treatments. Automotive revenues, operating income and operating cash flow grew substantially in 2022 due to three large dealership acquisitions, internal growth and a favorable operating environment.
The Company’s other businesses include several investment stage businesses as well as investments into new lines of business over the last few years. In total, there are nine operating business units that make up this group in three categories: retail, media and specialty. The largest of these businesses from a revenue standpoint is Leaf, a consumer internet company acquired in 2021, followed by Clyde’s Restaurant Group and Framebridge, a custom framing service company. In 2022, Clyde’s reported positive operating income, while the other businesses each reported operating losses, which were significant at Leaf and Framebridge.
The Company generates a significant amount of cash from its businesses that is used to support its operations, pay down debt and fund capital expenditures, share repurchases, dividends, acquisitions and other investments.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Net income attributable to common shares was $67.1 million ($13.79 per share) for the year ended December 31, 2022, compared to $352.1 million ($70.45 per share) for the year ended December 31, 2021.
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Items included in the Company’s net income for 2022 are listed below:
•a $6.1 million net credit related to fair value changes in contingent consideration from prior acquisitions (after-tax impact of $6.1 million or $1.25 per share);
•$129.0 million in goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges (after-tax impact of $117.0 million, or $24.06 per share) at Leaf recorded in the fourth quarter;
•$3.6 million in expenses related to a non-operating Separation Incentive Program (SIP) at the education division (after-tax impact of $2.7 million, or $0.56 per share) recorded in the fourth quarter;
•$139.6 million in net losses on marketable equity securities (after-tax impact of $102.8 million, or $21.14 per share);
•$11.8 million in net losses of affiliates whose operations are not managed by the Company (after-tax impact of $8.7 million, or $1.79 per share);
•a fourth quarter gain of $18.4 million on the sale of CyberVista (after-tax impact of $13.5 million, or $2.78 per share);
•Non-operating gains, net, of $9.5 million from write-ups, sales and impairments of cost and equity method investments (after-tax impact of $7.1 million, or $1.45 per share); and
•$16.5 million in interest expense to adjust the fair value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest (after-tax impact of $15.4 million, or $3.17 per share).
Items included in the Company’s net income for 2021 are listed below:
•a $3.9 million net credit related to fair value changes in contingent consideration from prior acquisitions ($0.78 per share);
•$31.6 million in goodwill and other long-lived asset impairment charges (after-tax impact of $26.0 million, or $5.19 per share);
•$1.1 million in expenses related to a non-operating SIP at manufacturing (after-tax impact of $0.8 million, or $0.16 per share);
•$243.1 million in net gains on marketable equity securities (after-tax impact of $179.7 million, or $35.96 per share);
•$12.6 million in net earnings of affiliates whose operations are not managed by the Company (after-tax impact of $9.3 million, or $1.86 per share);
•Non-operating gains, net, of $13.6 million from write-ups, sales and impairments of cost and equity method investments (after-tax impact of $10.1 million, or $2.02 per share);
•$4.1 million in interest expense to adjust the fair value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest (after-tax impact of $4.0 million, or $0.80 per share); and
•a $17.2 million deferred tax benefit arising from a change in the estimated deferred state income tax rate related to the Company’s pension and other postretirement plans ($3.45 per share).
Revenue for 2022 was $3,924.5 million, up 23% from $3,186.0 million in 2021. Revenues increased at all the Company’s divisions. Operating costs and expenses for the year increased to $3,840.6 million in 2022, from $3,108.6 million in 2021. Expenses in 2022 increased at education, healthcare, automotive and other businesses, partially offset by decreases at television broadcasting and manufacturing. The Company reported operating income for 2022 of $83.9 million, compared to $77.4 million in 2021. Operating results increased at education, television broadcasting, manufacturing and automotive, partially offset by declines at healthcare and other businesses.
The COVID-19 pandemic and measures taken to prevent its spread significantly impacted the Company’s results for 2021 and, to a lesser extent, 2022, largely from reduced demand for the Company’s products and services.
Division Results
Education
Education division revenue in 2022 totaled $1,427.9 million, up 5% from $1,361.2 million in 2021. Kaplan reported operating income of $82.9 million for 2022, an increase from $50.6 million in 2021.
The COVID-19 pandemic adversely impacted Kaplan’s operating results during 2021 and, to a lesser extent, during 2022. Kaplan serves a large number of students who travel to other countries to study a second language, prepare for licensure, or pursue a higher education degree. Government-imposed travel restrictions and school closures
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arising from COVID-19 had a negative impact on the ability of certain international students to travel and attend Kaplan’s programs, particularly Kaplan International’s Language programs (Languages) in 2021.
A summary of Kaplan’s operating results is as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2022 | 2021 | % Change | ||||||
| Revenue | |||||||||
| Kaplan international | $ | 816,239 | $ | 726,875 | 12 | ||||
| Higher education | 304,136 | 317,854 | (4) | ||||||
| Supplemental education | 301,625 | 309,069 | (2) | ||||||
| Kaplan corporate and other | 18,752 | 14,759 | 27 | ||||||
| Intersegment elimination | (12,837) | (7,312) | — | ||||||
| $ | 1,427,915 | $ | 1,361,245 | 5 | |||||
| Operating Income (Loss) | |||||||||
| Kaplan international | $ | 72,066 | $ | 33,457 | — | ||||
| Higher education | 24,031 | 24,134 | 0 | ||||||
| Supplemental education | 21,069 | 36,919 | (43) | ||||||
| Kaplan corporate and other | (18,018) | (24,715) | 27 | ||||||
| Amortization of intangible assets | (16,170) | (16,001) | (1) | ||||||
| Impairment of long-lived assets | — | (3,318) | — | ||||||
| Intersegment elimination | (45) | 97 | — | ||||||
| $ | 82,933 | $ | 50,573 | 64 |
Kaplan International includes postsecondary education, professional training and language training businesses largely outside the United States. Kaplan International revenue increased 12% in 2022 (22% on a constant currency basis). The increase is due largely to growth at Languages and Pathways, partially offset by a decline at Singapore. Kaplan International reported operating income of $72.1 million in 2022, compared to $33.5 million in 2021. The improved results are due largely to a reduction in losses at Languages, and improved results at Pathways and UK Professional, partially offset by a decline at Singapore. Overall, Kaplan International’s operating results in 2021 were negatively impacted by $43 million in losses incurred at Languages from significant COVID-19 disruptions.
Higher Education includes the results of Kaplan as a service provider to higher education institutions. Higher Education revenue declined 4% in 2022 due largely to lower costs incurred for reimbursement under the Purdue Global agreement. In 2022 and 2021, Kaplan recorded a portion of the fee with Purdue Global based on an assessment of its collectability under the TOSA. Enrollments at Purdue Global for 2022 finished 1% lower compared with the end of 2021. The Company will continue to assess the collectability of the fee with Purdue Global on a quarterly basis to make a determination as to whether to record all or part of the fee in the future and whether to make adjustments to fee amounts recognized in earlier periods. During 2022 and 2021, Kaplan recorded $38.9 million and $34.8 million, respectively, in fees from Purdue Global in its Higher Education operating results. Higher Education results were flat in 2022 due to an increase in the Purdue Global fee recorded, partially offset by increased investment costs incurred related to other university agreements and other higher education development costs.
Supplemental Education includes Kaplan’s standardized test preparation programs and domestic professional and other continuing education businesses. In November 2021, Supplemental Education acquired two small businesses. Supplemental Education revenue declined 2% in 2022 due largely to declines in retail comprehensive test preparation demand, offset in part by revenue from acquisitions completed in November 2021. Overall, demand for graduate and pre-college test preparation programs has declined due to the strength of U.S. employment markets and the decline in test takers, while demand for professional programs remained stable. Operating results declined in 2022 due to lower revenues and increased advertising and product development costs.
In the fourth quarter of 2022, Kaplan implemented a SIP to reduce the number of employees at Supplemental Education and Higher Education, which was funded by the assets of the Company’s pension plan. In connection with the SIP, the Company recorded $3.6 million in non-operating pension expense in the fourth quarter of 2022. Kaplan estimates the SIP will result in annual expense reductions of approximately $10 million.
Kaplan corporate and other represents unallocated expenses of Kaplan, Inc.’s corporate office, other minor businesses and certain shared activities. Overall, Kaplan corporate and other expenses declined in 2022 due to lower incentive compensation costs compared to 2021.
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Television Broadcasting
A summary of television broadcasting’s operating results is as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2022 | 2021 | % Change | ||||||||||||
| Revenue | $ | 535,651 | $ | 494,177 | 8 | ||||||||||
| Operating Income | 201,879 | 149,422 | 35 |
Graham Media Group, Inc. owns seven television stations located in Houston, TX; Detroit, MI; Orlando, FL; San Antonio, TX; Jacksonville, FL; and Roanoke, VA, as well as SocialNewsDesk, a provider of social media management tools designed to connect newsrooms with their users. Revenue at the television broadcasting division increased 8% to $535.7 million in 2022, from $494.2 million in 2021. The revenue increase is due to a $57.7 million increase in political revenue, increases from winter Olympics and Super Bowl advertising revenue at the Company’s NBC affiliates in the first quarter of 2022, and a $0.4 million increase in retransmission revenues, partially offset by declines in other categories from fewer available advertising spots and a reduction in digital revenues. Operating income for 2022 increased 35% to $201.9 million, from $149.4 million in 2021, due to increased revenues and a reduction in incentive compensation costs. While per subscriber rates from cable, satellite and OTT providers have grown, overall subscribers are down due to cord cutting across all platforms, resulting in retransmission revenue net of network fees in 2022 to be down slightly compared with 2021, and this trend is expected to continue in the future. Operating margin at the television broadcasting division was 38% in 2022 and 30% in 2021.
In May 2022, the Company’s television station in Orlando (WKMG) entered into a new network affiliation agreement with CBS effective July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2026. In December 2022, the Company’s television stations in Houston (KPRC), Detroit (WDIV) and Roanoke (WSLS) entered into a new three-year NBC Affiliation Agreement effective January 1, 2023 through December 31, 2025.
Graham Media Group’s media hubs remain competitive and ideally positioned in their respective markets. Regarding linear, KSAT in San Antonio and WJXT in Jacksonville ended the year with market-leading 6 a.m., 6 p.m. and late newscasts among the all-important 25 to 54 audience segment. KPRC in Houston had success at 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. with a dominant performance and finished a very close second in the mornings. WDIV in Detroit had a solid win at 6 p.m. and remained competitive at 6 a.m. and 11 p.m., while WKMG in Orlando wrapped up the year with a respectable late news performance finishing #2. WSLS ranked third in key newscasts, while syndication remained a strength for WCWJ in daytime and early fringe. On the digital front, GMG delivered year over year growth in overall digital users, a significant increase in live stream minutes watched, steady subscriber growth in their Insider membership program and finished another year with leading local media sites in each of their respective markets.
Manufacturing
A summary of manufacturing’s operating results is as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2022 | 2021 | % Change | ||||||||||||
| Revenue | $ | 486,643 | $ | 458,125 | 6 | ||||||||||
| Operating Income (Loss) | 33,707 | (16,048) | — |
Manufacturing includes four businesses: Hoover, a supplier of pressure impregnated kiln-dried lumber and plywood products for fire retardant and preservative applications; Dekko, a manufacturer of electrical workspace solutions, architectural lighting and electrical components and assemblies; Joyce/Dayton, a manufacturer of screw jacks and other linear motion systems; and Forney, a global supplier of products and systems that control and monitor combustion processes in electric utility and industrial applications.
Manufacturing revenues increased 6% in 2022 due to increased revenues at all of the manufacturing businesses. The revenue growth in 2022 at Hoover is due to higher wood prices and increased product demand. Wood prices were highly volatile in 2022 and 2021. Overall, Hoover results include gains on inventory sales in 2022 and 2021; however, wood gains on inventory sales were modestly higher in 2021. Manufacturing operating results increased significantly in 2022 due to $28.0 million in goodwill and other long-lived asset impairment charges in 2021 ($26.7 million of this charge was recorded at Dekko in the third quarter of 2021), and improved results at all of the manufacturing businesses.
In the second quarter of 2021, Dekko announced a plan to relocate its manufacturing operations in Shelton, CT to other Dekko manufacturing facilities, which was substantially completed by the end of 2021. In connection with this activity, Dekko implemented a SIP for the affected employees, resulting in $1.1 million in non-operating SIP expense recorded in the second quarter of 2021, which was funded by the assets of the Company’s pension plan.
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Healthcare
A summary of healthcare’s operating results is as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2022 | 2021 | % Change | ||||||||||||
| Revenue | $ | 326,000 | $ | 223,030 | 46 | ||||||||||
| Operating Income | 15,265 | 26,806 | (43) |
The Graham Healthcare Group (GHG) provides home health and hospice services in seven states. GHG also provides other healthcare services, including nursing care and prescription services for patients receiving in-home infusion treatments through its 76.5% interest in CSI Pharmacy Holding Company, LLC (CSI). In December 2021, GHG acquired two small businesses, one of which expanded GHG’s home health operations into Florida. In May 2022, GHG acquired two small businesses, one of which expanded GHG’s home health operations into Kansas and Missouri. In July 2022, GHG acquired a 100% interest in a multi-state provider of Applied Behavior Analysis clinics and in August 2022, GHG acquired two small businesses, which expanded GHG’s hospice services into Missouri and Ohio. Healthcare revenues increased 46% in 2022 largely due to significant growth at CSI and from businesses acquired in the fourth quarter of 2021 and in 2022, along with growth in home health and hospice services.
In 2022, GHG implemented a new pension credit retention program in order to improve employee retention and utilize the Company’s surplus pension assets. The GHG pilot program offers a pension credit up to $50,000 per employee, cliff vested after three years of continuous employment for certain existing employees and new employees hired from January 1, 2022 through December 31, 2024. GHG recorded pension expense of $10.5 million related to this program in 2022.
The decline in GHG operating results in 2022 is due to $10.5 million in 2022 pension expense related to the new GHG pension credit retention program, net losses from newly acquired businesses, and increased marketing, human resources, recruiting and business development costs and overall increased compensation and transportation costs in nursing and clinical staffing. Excluding pension expense and net losses from newly acquired businesses, 2022 operating results increased due to revenue growth and improved results at CSI and in home health.
The Company also holds interests in four home health and hospice joint ventures managed by GHG, whose results are included in equity in earnings of affiliates in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. In 2022 and 2021, the Company recorded equity in earnings of $8.1 million and $10.2 million, respectively, from these joint ventures. During the first quarter of 2022, GHG, through its Residential Home Health Illinois and Residential Hospice Illinois affiliates, acquired an interest in the home health and hospice assets of NorthShore University HealthSystem, an integrated healthcare delivery system serving patients throughout the Chicago, IL area. The transaction resulted in a decrease to GHG’s interest in Residential Hospice Illinois and a $0.6 million non-operating gain was recorded in the first quarter of 2022 related to the change in interest.
Automotive
A summary of automotive’s operating results is as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2022 | 2021 | % Change | ||||||||||||
| Revenue | $ | 734,185 | $ | 327,069 | — | ||||||||||
| Operating Income | 34,633 | 11,771 | — |
Automotive includes six automotive dealerships in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area: Ourisman Lexus of Rockville, Ourisman Honda of Tysons Corner, Ourisman Jeep Bethesda, Ourisman Ford of Manassas, which was acquired on December 28, 2021, from the Battlefield Automotive Group, and Ourisman Toyota of Woodbridge and Ourisman Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep-Ram (CDJR) of Woodbridge, which were acquired on July 5, 2022 from the Lustine Automotive Group. Christopher J. Ourisman, a member of the Ourisman Automotive Group family of dealerships, and his team of industry professionals operates and manages the dealerships; the Company holds a 90% stake.
Revenues for 2022 increased significantly due to the acquisitions of the Ford, Toyota and CDJR dealerships; sales growth at the Jeep dealership due to an increase in new vehicle inventory provided by the manufacturer and a growing market presence; and higher average new and used car selling prices at the Lexus, Honda and Jeep dealerships as a result of strong customer demand and new vehicle inventory shortages related to supply chain disruptions and production delays at vehicle manufacturers. Revenue increases in 2022 were partially offset by lower revenues at the Honda and Lexus dealerships due to volume declines as a result of inventory shortages. Operating results for 2022 improved significantly due largely to the Ford, Toyota and CDJR acquisitions, increased sales at the Jeep dealership and increased margins at the Lexus dealership.
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Other Businesses
A summary of revenue by category for other businesses:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2022 | 2021 | % Change | ||||||
| Operating Revenues | |||||||||
| Retail (1) | $ | 163,570 | $ | 130,720 | 25 | ||||
| Media (2) | 126,095 | 110,805 | 14 | ||||||
| Specialty (3) | 126,419 | 82,828 | 53 | ||||||
| $ | 416,084 | $ | 324,353 | 28 |
____________
| (1) | Includes Leaf Marketplace and Framebridge |
|---|---|
| (2) | Includes Leaf Media, Code3, Slate, Foreign Policy, Pinna and City Cast |
| (3) | Includes Clyde’s Restaurant Group, Decile and CyberVista |
Overall, revenue from other businesses increased across all categories in 2022. Retail revenue increased primarily due to the Leaf acquisition, as well as revenue growth at Framebridge; Media revenue increased primarily due to the Leaf acquisition, as well as revenue growth at Foreign Policy, partially offset by declines at Code3; and Specialty revenue increased due to significant revenue growth at Clyde’s Restaurant Group (CRG).
Overall, operating results at other businesses declined in 2022 due to $129.0 million in goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges at Leaf and increased losses at Leaf, Framebridge, Code3 and City Cast, partially offset by improved results at CRG, Decile, Pinna and Slate.
Leaf Group
On June 14, 2021, the Company acquired Leaf Group Ltd. (Leaf), a consumer internet company, headquartered in Santa Monica, CA, that builds enduring, creator-driven brands that reach passionate audiences in large and growing lifestyle categories, including fitness and wellness (Well+Good, Livestrong.com and MyPlate App), and home, art and design (Saatchi Art, Society6 and Hunker). Leaf has three major operating divisions: Society6 Group and Saatchi Art Group (Marketplace businesses) and the Media Group.
For the second half of 2022, revenue for Society6 Group and the Media Group declined substantially compared to the second half of 2021, with fourth quarter 2022 revenue declines at an accelerated level. Revenues also declined at Saatchi Art Group for the second half of 2022. Revenue decreases at Society6 Group are due to declines in traffic, conversion rates and related sales for both direct to consumer and business to business categories; revenue declines at the Media Group are due to reduced traffic and the soft digital advertising market for both direct and programmatic categories. Overall, Leaf reported significant operating losses for 2022.
As a result of the substantial revenue declines and significant operating losses at Leaf in the fourth quarter of 2022, the Company’s current outlook for digital advertising revenue and consumer demand for art and related goods at Leaf has weakened. Consequently, the Company recorded $129.0 million in goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges.
Clyde’s Restaurant Group
CRG owns and operates 11 restaurants and entertainment venues in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, including Old Ebbitt Grill and The Hamilton. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, CRG temporarily closed its restaurant dining rooms in Maryland and the District of Columbia in December 2020, reopening again for limited indoor dining service in February 2021. Various government-ordered dining restrictions continued until the middle of 2021. CRG reported an operating profit for 2022 compared with operating losses in 2021. Both revenues and operating results improved significantly in 2022 due to strong guest traffic, the absence of government-ordered dining restrictions and a favorable rent concession recorded in the second quarter of 2022.
Framebridge
Framebridge is a custom framing service company, headquartered in Washington, D.C., with 17 retail locations in the Washington, D.C., New York City, Atlanta, GA, Philadelphia, PA, Boston, MA and Chicago, IL areas and two manufacturing facilities in Kentucky and New Jersey. Framebridge has opened two additional stores in early 2023 and is exploring opportunities for further store expansion for the remainder of the year. Framebridge revenues in 2022 increased from the prior year due to operating additional retail stores compared to 2021. In the fourth quarter of 2022, Framebridge successfully managed their production operations for timely completion of holiday orders without a significant backlog. Framebridge is an investment stage business and reported significant operating losses in 2022 and 2021.
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Other
Other businesses also include Code3, a performance marketing agency focused on driving performance for brands through three core elements of digital success: media, creative and commerce; Slate and Foreign Policy, which publish online and print magazines and websites; and three investment stage businesses, Decile, Pinna and City Cast. Slate, Foreign Policy, Pinna and City Cast reported revenue increases in 2022. Losses from each of these six businesses in 2022 adversely affected operating results. Other businesses also include CyberVista, which was sold in October 2022 when the Company announced a strategic merger of CyberVista and CyberWire, a B2B cybersecurity audio network to form a new parent company, N2K Networks. The focus of N2K Networks is to expand its technology platform to enable development of more resilient enterprise cyber workforces, to pioneer new markets, and to create original “news to knowledge” audio brands. In connection with the merger, the Company recorded an $18.4 million non-cash, non-operating gain, and participated in a Series A funding round. The Company’s investment in N2K Networks is reported as an equity method investment.
Corporate Office
Corporate office includes the expenses of the Company’s corporate office and certain continuing obligations related to prior business dispositions. Corporate office expenses decreased in 2022 due primarily to a higher net credit recorded in 2022 related to fair value changes in contingent consideration related to the Framebridge acquisition.
Equity in (Losses) Earnings of Affiliates
At December 31, 2022, the Company held an approximate 12% interest in Intersection Holdings, LLC (Intersection), a company that provides digital marketing and advertising services and products for cities, transit systems, airports, and other public and private spaces. The Company also holds interests in several other affiliates, including a number of home health and hospice joint ventures managed by GHG and two joint ventures managed by Kaplan. The Company recorded equity in losses of affiliates of $2.8 million for 2022, compared to earnings of $17.9 million for 2021. These amounts include $11.8 million in net losses for 2022 and $12.6 million in net earnings for 2021 from affiliates whose operations are not managed by the Company; this includes losses from the Company’s investment in Intersection of $8.1 million in 2022 and $30.5 million in 2021. The Company also recorded $6.4 million in write-downs in equity in earnings of affiliates related to one of its investments in the third quarter of 2021.
Net Interest Expense and Related Balances
In connection with the acquisition of the Toyota and CDJR dealerships, in July 2022, the automotive subsidiary of the Company amended its commercial note due January 1, 2032, to increase the aggregate loan amount to $71.6 million. The Company also borrowed $27.2 million, comprised of three commercial notes, to purchase the real estate associated with these dealerships; the Company entered into an interest rate swap to fix the interest rate on this debt at 4.861% per annum.
The Company incurred net interest expense of $51.2 million in 2022, compared to $30.5 million in 2021. The Company recorded net interest expense of $16.5 million and $4.1 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively, to adjust the fair value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest at GHG.
At December 31, 2022, the Company had $726.4 million in borrowings outstanding at an average interest rate of 5.7%, and cash, marketable securities and other investments of $812.8 million. At December 31, 2022, the Company had $200.2 million outstanding on its $300 million revolving credit facility. At December 31, 2021, the Company had $667.5 million in borrowings outstanding at an average interest rate of 4.3%, and cash, marketable securities and other investments of $983.3 million.
Non-Operating Pension and Postretirement Benefit Income, Net
The Company recorded net non-operating pension and postretirement benefit income of $197.9 million in 2022, compared to $109.2 million in 2021.
In the fourth quarter of 2022, the Company recorded $3.6 million in expenses related to a non-operating SIP at the education division. In the second quarter of 2021, the Company recorded $1.1 million in expenses related to a non-operating SIP at manufacturing.
(Loss) Gain on Marketable Equity Securities, Net
The Company recognized $139.6 million in net losses on marketable equity securities in 2022 compared to $243.1 million in net gains in 2021.
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Other Non-Operating Income
The Company recorded total other non-operating income, net, of $33.5 million in 2022, compared to $32.6 million in 2021. The 2022 amounts included a non-cash gain of $18.4 million on the sale of CyberVista; $4.3 million in gains related to sales of businesses and contingent consideration; a $6.9 million increase in the fair value of cost method investments; $3.3 million in gains on sales of cost method investments; a $0.6 million gain on sale of an equity affiliate, and other items; partially offset by $2.0 million in foreign currency losses and $1.3 million in impairment on a cost method investment. The 2021 amounts included $11.8 million in fair value increases on cost method investments; $9.4 million in gains on sales of cost method investments; $3.8 million in gains related to sales of businesses and contingent consideration and other items.
Provision for Income Taxes
The Company’s effective tax rate for 2022 was 42.1%. The Company’s effective tax rate in 2022 was unfavorably impacted by permanent differences related to the goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges and the interest expense recorded to adjust the fair value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest at GHG. Excluding the impact of these items, the overall income tax rate for 2022 was 24.1%.
The Company’s effective tax rate for 2021 was 21.4%. The Company’s effective tax rate in 2021 was favorably impacted by a $17.2 million deferred tax adjustment arising from a change in the estimated deferred state income tax rate attributable to the apportionment formula used in the calculation of deferred taxes related to the Company’s pension and other postretirement plans. In addition, the Company’s effective tax rate was unfavorably impacted by permanent differences related to the goodwill and other long-lived asset impairment charges and the interest expense recorded to adjust the fair value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest at GHG. Excluding the impact of these items, the overall income tax rate for 2021 was 24.6%.
FINANCIAL CONDITION: LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The Company considers the following when assessing its liquidity and capital resources:
| As of December 31 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In thousands) | 2022 | 2021 | ||||
| Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 169,319 | $ | 145,886 | ||
| Restricted cash | 21,113 | 12,957 | ||||
| Investments in marketable equity securities and other investments | 622,408 | 824,445 | ||||
| Total debt | 726,360 | 667,501 |
Cash generated by operations is the Company’s primary source of liquidity. The Company maintains investments in a portfolio of marketable equity securities, which is considered when assessing the Company’s sources of liquidity. An additional source of liquidity includes the undrawn portion of the Company’s $300 million five-year revolving credit facility, amounting to $99.8 million at December 31, 2022.
In March 2020, the U.S. government enacted legislation, including the CARES Act to provide stimulus in the form of financial aid to businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the CARES Act, employers could defer the payment of the employer share of FICA taxes due for the period beginning on March 27, 2020, and ending December 31, 2020. The Company deferred $21.5 million of FICA payments under this program, with $10.7 million of the deferred payments still payable at December 31, 2021. The remaining deferred balance was paid in 2022.
The CARES Act also included provisions to support healthcare providers in the form of grants and changes to Medicare and Medicaid payments. In April 2020, GHG applied for and received $31.5 million under the expanded Medicare Accelerated and Advanced Payment Program, modified by the CARES Act. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) started to recoup this advance in April 2021 by withholding a portion of the amount reimbursed for claims submitted for services provided after the beginning of the recoupment period. During 2021, an amount of $18.9 million was withheld by HHS with the remaining $12.6 million withheld in 2022. The advance has been recouped in full as of December 31, 2022.
Governments in other jurisdictions where the Company operates also provided relief to businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in the form of job retention schemes, payroll assistance, deferral of income and other tax payments, and loans. For the year ended December 31, 2021, Kaplan recorded benefits totaling $4.7 million related to job retention and payroll schemes, mostly at Kaplan International.
During 2022, the Company’s cash and cash equivalents increased by $23.4 million, due to cash generated from operations, the net proceeds from the sale of marketable equity securities and net borrowings, which was partially offset by acquisitions, additional investments in marketable equity securities and equity securities, capital expenditures, dividend payments and share repurchases. In 2022, the Company’s borrowings increased by $58.9
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million, primarily due to additional borrowings at the automotive subsidiary, partially offset by repayments under the revolving credit facility.
As of December 31, 2022, the Company had money market investments of $7.7 million, which are included in cash and cash equivalents. The Company had no money market investments as of December 31, 2021. At December 31, 2022, the Company held approximately $132 million in cash and cash equivalents in businesses domiciled outside the U.S., of which approximately $8 million is not available for immediate use in operations or for distribution. Additionally, Kaplan’s business operations outside the U.S. retain cash balances to support ongoing working capital requirements, capital expenditures, and regulatory requirements. As a result, the Company considers a significant portion of the cash and cash equivalents balance held outside the U.S. as not readily available for use in U.S. operations.
At December 31, 2022, the fair value of the Company’s investments in marketable equity securities was $609.9 million, which includes investments in the common stock of five publicly traded companies. The Company purchased $42.1 million of marketable equity securities during 2022, of which $1.5 million was settled in January 2023. During 2022, the Company sold marketable equity securities that generated proceeds of $102.0 million. At December 31, 2022, the net unrealized gain related to the Company’s investments totaled $339.2 million.
The Company had working capital of $534.1 million and $680.8 million at December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively. The Company maintains working capital levels consistent with its underlying business requirements and consistently generates cash from operations in excess of required interest or principal payments.
At December 31, 2022 and 2021, the Company had borrowings outstanding of $726.4 million and $667.5 million, respectively. The Company’s borrowings at December 31, 2022 were mostly from $400.0 million of 5.75% unsecured notes due June 1, 2026, $200.2 million in outstanding borrowings under the Company’s revolving credit facility and commercial notes of $116.6 million at the automotive subsidiary. The Company’s borrowings at December 31, 2021 were mostly from $400.0 million of 5.75% unsecured notes due June 1, 2026, $209.6 million in outstanding borrowings under the Company’s revolving credit facility and commercial notes of $47.0 million at the automotive subsidiary. The interest on the $400.0 million of 5.75% unsecured notes is payable semi-annually on June 1 and December 1.
On May 3, 2022, the Company amended the revolving credit facility agreement to, among other things, extend the maturity date to May 30, 2027.
During 2022 and 2021, the Company had average borrowings outstanding of approximately $689.9 million and $545.2 million, respectively, at average annual interest rates of approximately 4.8%. The Company incurred net interest expense of $51.2 million and $30.5 million, respectively, during 2022 and 2021. Included in the 2022 and 2021 interest expense is $16.5 million and $4.1 million, respectively, to adjust the fair value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest (see Note 11).
On August 30, 2022, Moody’s affirmed the Company’s credit rating and maintained the outlook as Stable. On April 12, 2022, Standard & Poor’s affirmed the Company’s credit rating and maintained the outlook as Stable.
The Company’s current credit ratings are as follows:
| Moody’s | Standard & Poor’s | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Long-term | Ba1 | BB | |
| Outlook | Stable | Stable |
The Company expects to fund its estimated capital needs primarily through existing cash balances and internally generated funds, and, as needed, from borrowings under its revolving credit facility. As of December 31, 2022, the Company had $200.2 million outstanding under the $300 million revolving credit facility. In management’s opinion, the Company will have sufficient financial resources to meet its business requirements in the next 12 months, including working capital requirements, capital expenditures, interest payments, potential acquisitions and strategic investments, dividends and stock repurchases.
In summary, the Company’s cash flows for each period were as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In thousands) | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Net cash provided by operating activities | $ | 235,604 | $ | 202,426 | $ | 210,663 | ||||
| Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities | (184,066) | (494,635) | 199,371 | |||||||
| Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities | (18,107) | 31,027 | (204,002) | |||||||
| Effect of currency exchange rate change | (1,842) | (3,029) | 2,978 | |||||||
| Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash | $ | 31,589 | $ | (264,211) | $ | 209,010 |
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Operating Activities. Cash provided by operating activities is net income adjusted for certain non-cash items and changes in assets and liabilities. The Company’s net cash flow provided by operating activities were as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In thousands) | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Net Income | $ | 70,434 | $ | 353,327 | $ | 299,968 | ||||
| Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: | ||||||||||
| Depreciation, amortization and goodwill and other long-lived asset impairment | 261,138 | 162,225 | 161,207 | |||||||
| Amortization of lease right-of-use asset | 67,568 | 73,752 | 89,956 | |||||||
| Net pension benefit and special separation benefit expense | (166,611) | (91,898) | (41,573) | |||||||
| Other non-cash activities | 130,230 | (183,742) | (229,134) | |||||||
| Change in operating assets and liabilities | (127,155) | (111,238) | (69,761) | |||||||
| Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities | $ | 235,604 | $ | 202,426 | $ | 210,663 |
Net cash provided by operating activities consists primarily of cash receipts from customers, less disbursements for costs, benefits, income taxes, interest and other expenses.
For 2022 compared to 2021, the increase in net cash provided by operating activities is primarily due to higher net income, net of non-cash adjustments, partially offset by changes in operating assets and liabilities. Changes in operating assets and liabilities were driven by higher purchase of inventories and decreases in accounts payable and accrued liabilities, partially offset by an increase in the collection of accounts receivable.
For 2021 compared to 2020, the decrease in net cash provided by operating activities is primarily due to changes in operating assets and liabilities, partially offset by higher net income, net of non-cash adjustments. Changes in operating assets and liabilities were driven by a decrease in the collection of accounts receivable and partial repayment of advances related to the CARES Act, partially offset by other increases in accounts payable and accrued liabilities and deferred revenue.
Investing Activities. The Company’s net cash flow (used in) provided by investing activities were as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In thousands) | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Investments in certain businesses, net of cash acquired | $ | (130,106) | $ | (351,882) | $ | (20,080) | ||||
| Purchases of property, plant and equipment | (82,684) | (162,537) | (69,591) | |||||||
| Net proceeds from sales of marketable equity securities | 61,522 | 17,463 | 73,771 | |||||||
| Investments in equity affiliates, cost method and other investments | (38,894) | (8,531) | (12,367) | |||||||
| Net proceeds from sales of businesses, property, plant and equipment and other assets | 5,057 | 10,295 | 225,570 | |||||||
| Other | 1,039 | 557 | 2,068 | |||||||
| Net Cash (Used in) Provided by Investing Activities | $ | (184,066) | $ | (494,635) | $ | 199,371 |
Acquisitions. During 2022, the Company acquired seven businesses: five in healthcare and two in automotive, for $143.2 million in cash and contingent consideration and the assumption of floor plan payables. GHG acquired two small businesses in August 2022, a 100% interest in a multi-state provider of Applied Behavioral Analysis clinics in July 2022, and two small businesses in May 2022. In July 2022, the Company’s automotive subsidiary acquired two automotive dealerships, including the real property for the dealership operations. In addition to a cash payment and the assumption of $10.9 million in floor plan payables, the automotive subsidiary borrowed $77.4 million to finance the acquisition. During 2021, the Company acquired six businesses: two small businesses in its education division, two small businesses in healthcare, one new auto dealership in automotive, and all the outstanding shares of Leaf for cash and the assumption of $9.2 million in liabilities related to their pre-acquisition stock compensation plan, which will be paid in the future. Leaf is included in other businesses. During 2020, the Company acquired three businesses: two small businesses in its education division and an additional interest in Framebridge, Inc., which is included in other businesses. The Framebridge purchase price included $54.3 million in deferred payments and contingent consideration based on the acquiree achieving certain revenue milestones in the future.
Capital Expenditures. The 2022 and 2020 capital expenditures are lower than 2021 due to significant land and building purchases at Kaplan International’s sixth-form college in London, U.K. and at the automotive subsidiary in 2021. The 2020 capital expenditures include spending in connection with spectrum repacking at the Company’s television stations in Detroit, MI, Jacksonville, FL, and Roanoke, VA, as mandated by the FCC; these spectrum repacking expenditures were largely reimbursed to the Company by the FCC. The amounts reflected in the Company’s Statements of Cash Flows are based on cash payments made during the relevant periods, whereas the Company’s capital expenditures for 2022, 2021 and 2020 disclosed in Note 19 to the Consolidated Financial Statements include assets acquired during the year. The Company estimates that its capital expenditures will be in the range of $85 million to $95 million in 2023.
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Net Proceeds from Sales of Investments and Businesses. During 2022, 2021 and 2020, the Company sold marketable securities that generated proceeds of $102.0 million, $65.5 million and $93.8 million, respectively. The Company purchased $42.1 million, of which $1.5 million was settled in January 2023, $48.0 million and $20.0 million of marketable equity securities during 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively. In December 2020, the Company completed the sale of Megaphone; the total net proceeds from the sale were $223.0 million.
Investment in Equity Affiliates. During 2022, GHG invested an additional $18.5 million in two affiliates to fund their acquisition of an interest in a health system in Illinois and the Company also made an additional investment of $5.0 million in N2K Networks, the new parent entity formed through the CyberVista transaction.
Financing Activities. The Company’s net cash flow (used in) provided by financing activities were as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In thousands) | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Issuance (repayments) of borrowings | $ | 62,815 | $ | 20,539 | $ | (81,276) | ||||
| Net borrowing under revolving credit facilities | 3,000 | 134,696 | 76,241 | |||||||
| Net proceeds from (repayments of) vehicle floor plan payable | 26,230 | (10,563) | (14,160) | |||||||
| Common shares repurchased | (71,386) | (55,683) | (161,829) | |||||||
| Dividends paid | (30,712) | (30,136) | (29,970) | |||||||
| Other | (8,054) | (27,826) | 6,992 | |||||||
| Net Cash (Used in) Provided by Financing Activities | $ | (18,107) | $ | 31,027 | $ | (204,002) |
Borrowings and Vehicle Floor Plan Payable. In July 2022, the Company’s automotive subsidiary amended its commercial note to, among other things, increase the aggregate loan amount to $71.6 million and entered into three commercial notes in an aggregate amount of $27.2 million. The additional borrowings were used to acquire two automotive dealerships, including the real property for the dealership operations. In 2021, the Company borrowed against the $300 million revolving credit facility, which borrowing was used to purchase land and buildings at Kaplan International’s sixth-form college in London, U.K. and at the automotive subsidiary and, to a lesser extent, to repurchase stock and fund various acquisitions during the fourth quarter of 2021. In addition, the automotive subsidiary borrowed $47.3 million, which was used to repay the outstanding balance of the term loan due on January 31, 2029 and fund the acquisition of an automotive dealership in the fourth quarter. In 2020, the Company borrowed £60 million against the $300 million revolving credit facility and used the proceeds to repay the £60 million outstanding balance under the Kaplan Credit Agreement that matured at the end of June 2020. In 2022, 2021, and 2020, the Company used vehicle floor plan financing to fund the purchase of new, used and service loaner vehicles at its automotive subsidiary. The proceeds from (repayments of) the vehicle floor plan payable fluctuates with changes in the amount of vehicle inventory held by the automotive dealerships.
Common Stock Repurchases. During 2022, 2021, and 2020, the Company purchased a total of 121,761, 93,969, and 406,112 shares, respectively, of its Class B common stock at a cost of approximately $71.4 million, $55.7 million, and $161.8 million, respectively. On September 10, 2020, the Board of Directors authorized the Company to acquire up to 500,000 shares of its Class B common stock. The Company did not announce a ceiling price or time limit for the purchases. At December 31, 2022, the Company had remaining authorization from the Board of Directors to purchase up to 148,421 shares of Class B common stock.
Dividends. The annual dividend rate per share was $6.32, $6.04 and $5.80 in 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The Company expects to pay a dividend of $6.60 per share in 2023.
Other. In 2022, the Company paid $5.7 million related to contingent consideration and deferred payments from prior acquisitions. In 2021, the Company paid $30.9 million related to contingent consideration and deferred payments from prior acquisitions, mostly for the 2020 acquisition of Framebridge. In March 2021, Hoover’s minority shareholders put their remaining outstanding shares to the Company, which had a redemption value of $3.5 million. In 2020, the Company received $25.1 million in proceeds from the exercise of stock options.
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Contractual Obligations. The following reflects a summary of the Company’s contractual obligations as of December 31, 2022:
| (in thousands) | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 | 2027 | Thereafter | Total | |||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Debt and interest | $ | 56,437 | $ | 59,128 | $ | 47,870 | $ | 435,332 | $ | 218,265 | $ | 77,195 | $ | 894,227 | ||||||||||||
| Finance leases | 9,034 | 3,590 | 1,990 | — | — | — | 14,614 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Operating leases | 108,222 | 77,138 | 60,960 | 53,709 | 48,522 | 286,561 | 635,112 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Programming purchase commitments (1) | 7,923 | 5,907 | 3,404 | 35 | — | — | 17,269 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Other purchase obligations (2) | 126,944 | 90,374 | 76,557 | 37,287 | 9,471 | 39,392 | 380,025 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Long-term liabilities (3) | 2,643 | 2,562 | 2,472 | 2,431 | 2,412 | 8,227 | 20,747 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Total | $ | 311,203 | $ | 238,699 | $ | 193,253 | $ | 528,794 | $ | 278,670 | $ | 411,375 | $ | 1,961,994 |
___________________
(1) Includes commitments for the Company’s television broadcasting business that are reflected in the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements and commitments to purchase programming to be produced in future years.
(2) Includes purchase obligations related to employment agreements, capital projects and other legally binding commitments. Other purchase orders made in the ordinary course of business are excluded from the table above. Any amounts for which the Company is liable under purchase orders are reflected in the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets as accounts payable and accrued liabilities.
(3) Primarily made up of multiemployer pension plan withdrawal obligations and postretirement benefit obligations other than pensions. The Company has other long-term liabilities excluded from the table above, including obligations for deferred compensation, long-term incentive plans and long-term deferred revenue.
Other. The Company does not have any off-balance-sheet arrangements or financing activities with special-purpose entities (SPEs).
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and judgments that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements. On an ongoing basis, the Company evaluates its estimates and assumptions. The Company bases its estimates on historical experience and other assumptions believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
An accounting policy is considered to be critical if it is important to the Company’s financial condition and results and if it requires management’s most difficult, subjective and complex judgments in its application. For a summary of all of the Company’s significant accounting policies, see Note 2 to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements.
Revenue Recognition, Trade Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Credit Losses. Education revenue is primarily derived from postsecondary education services, professional education and test preparation services. Revenue, net of any refunds, corporate discounts, scholarships and employee tuition discounts is recognized ratably over the instruction period or access period for higher education and supplemental education services.
At Kaplan International and Kaplan Supplemental Education, estimates of average student course length are developed for each course, along with estimates for the anticipated level of student drops and refunds from test performance guarantees, and these estimates are evaluated on an ongoing basis and adjusted as necessary. As Kaplan’s businesses and related course offerings have changed, including more online programs, the complexity and significance of management’s estimates have increased.
KHE provides non-academic operations support services to Purdue Global pursuant to a TOSA, which includes technology support, help-desk functions, human resources support for faculty and employees, admissions support, financial aid administration, marketing and advertising, back-office business functions, and certain student recruitment services. KHE is not entitled to receive any reimbursement of costs incurred in providing support services, or any fee, unless and until Purdue Global has first covered all of its academic costs (subject to a cap), received payment for cost efficiencies, if any, and during the first five years of the TOSA receive a priority payment of $10 million per year in addition to the operating cost reimbursements and cost efficiency payments. KHE will receive reimbursement for its operating costs of providing the support services after payment of Purdue Global’s operating costs, cost efficiency payments, and priority payment. If there are sufficient revenues, KHE may be entitled to a cost efficiency payment, if any, and additional fee equal to 12.5% of Purdue Global’s revenue. Subject to certain limitations, a portion of the fee that is earned by KHE in one year may be carried over to subsequent years for payment to Kaplan.
The support fee and reimbursement for KHE support costs are entirely dependent on the availability of cash at the end of Purdue Global’s fiscal year (June 30), and therefore, all consideration in the contract is variable. The Company uses significant judgment to forecast the operating results of Purdue Global, the availability of cash at the end of each fiscal year, and the consideration it expects to receive from Purdue Global annually. Key assumptions used in the forecast model include student census and degree enrollment data, Purdue Global and KHE expenses, changes to working capital, contractually stipulated minimum payments, and lead conversion rates. The forecast is
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updated as uncertainties are resolved. The Company reviews and updates the assumptions regularly, as a significant change in one or more of these estimates could affect revenue recognized. Changes to the estimated variable consideration were not material for the year ended December 31, 2022.
A Kaplan International business has a contract with an examination body through August 2029 comprised of two performance obligations, one to build and create a professional exam and another to manage the delivery of that exam to qualified candidates. The first obligation was completed in 2021. The second obligation began after the first obligation was completed and is expected to continue through the end of the contract term. Revenues are recognized for both of these obligations by allocating the transaction price based on forecasted financial results and the use of a market-based profit margin applied to costs incurred during the financial reporting period. This profit margin, determined at contract inception, is different for each obligation as a result of the different value created by each distinct obligation. The forecast, including key assumptions such as expected candidate volumes and related exam-management expenses, is updated as future uncertainties are resolved, which may result in changes to the transaction price. The Company reviews and updates the assumptions regularly, as a significant change in one or more of these estimates could affect revenue recognized. Changes to the estimated variable consideration were not material for the year ended December 31, 2022.
The determination of whether revenue should be reported on a gross or net basis is based on an assessment of whether the Company acts as a principal or an agent in the transaction. In certain cases, the Company is considered the agent, and the Company records revenue equal to the net amount retained when the fee is earned. In these cases, costs incurred with third-party suppliers is excluded from the Company’s revenue. The Company assesses whether it obtained control of the specified goods or services before they are transferred to the customer as part of this assessment. In addition, the Company considers other indicators such as the party primarily responsible for fulfillment, inventory risk and discretion in establishing price.
Accounts receivable have been reduced by an allowance that reflects the current expected credit losses associated with the receivables. This estimated allowance is based on historical write-offs, current macroeconomic conditions, reasonable and supportable forecasts of future economic conditions and management’s evaluation of the financial condition of the customer. The Company generally considers an account past due or delinquent when a student or customer misses a scheduled payment. The Company writes off accounts receivable balances deemed uncollectible against the allowance for credit losses following the passage of a certain period of time, or generally when the account is turned over for collection to an outside collection agency.
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. The Company has a significant amount of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets that are reviewed at least annually for possible impairment.
| As of December 31 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in millions) | 2022 | 2021 | ||||
| Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets | $ | 1,739.9 | $ | 1,791.8 | ||
| Total assets | 6,582.2 | 7,425.5 | ||||
| Percentage of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets to total assets | 26 | % | 24 | % |
The Company performs its annual goodwill and intangible assets impairment test as of November 30. Goodwill and other intangible assets are reviewed for possible impairment between annual tests if an event occurred or circumstances changed that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of the reporting unit or other intangible assets below its carrying value.
Goodwill
The Company tests its goodwill at the reporting unit level, which is an operating segment or one level below an operating segment. The Company initially performs an assessment of qualitative factors to determine if it is necessary to perform a quantitative goodwill impairment test. The Company quantitatively tests goodwill for impairment if, based on its assessment of the qualitative factors, it determines that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, or if it decides to bypass the qualitative assessment. The quantitative goodwill impairment test compares the estimated fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. An impairment charge is recognized for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value.
In conjunction with the Company’s annual impairment review, as a result of the weakened current outlook for digital advertising and consumer demand for art and related goods following substantial declines in revenues and significant operating losses at Leaf, the Company recorded a $84.5 million and $17.6 million goodwill impairment charge at the Leaf Media and Leaf Marketplace reporting units, respectively. The Company estimated the fair value of the reporting units by utilizing a discounted cash flow model. The carrying value of each reporting unit exceeded its estimated fair value, resulting in a goodwill impairment charge for the amount by which the carrying value
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exceeded the estimated fair value after taking into account the effect of deferred income taxes. As a result of the impairment charge, no goodwill remains at the Leaf Marketplace reporting unit. Leaf is included in other businesses.
The Company had 20 reporting units as of December 31, 2022. The reporting units with significant goodwill balances as of December 31, 2022, were as follows, representing 90% of the total goodwill of the Company:
| (in millions) | Goodwill | |
|---|---|---|
| Education | ||
| Kaplan international | $ | 579.6 |
| Higher education | 63.2 | |
| Supplemental education | 171.6 | |
| Television broadcasting | 190.8 | |
| Healthcare | 135.9 | |
| Leaf Media | 57.7 | |
| Hoover | 91.3 | |
| Framebridge | 60.9 | |
| Dekko | 47.8 | |
| Total | $ | 1,398.8 |
As of November 30, 2022, in connection with the Company’s annual impairment testing, the Company decided to perform the quantitative goodwill impairment process at all of the reporting units. The Company’s policy requires the performance of a quantitative impairment review of the goodwill at least once every three years. The Company used a discounted cash flow model, and, where appropriate, a market value approach was also utilized to supplement the discounted cash flow model to determine the estimated fair value of its reporting units. The Company made estimates and assumptions regarding future cash flows, discount rates, long-term growth rates and market values to determine each reporting unit’s estimated fair value. The methodology used to estimate the fair value of the Company’s reporting units on November 30, 2022, was consistent with the one used during the 2021 annual goodwill impairment test.
The Company made changes to certain of its assumptions utilized in the discounted cash flow models for 2022 compared with the prior year to take into account changes in the economic environment, regulations and their impact on the Company’s businesses. The key assumptions used by the Company were as follows:
• Expected cash flows underlying the Company’s business plans for the periods 2023 through 2027 were used. The Company used expected cash flows for the periods 2023 through 2032 for the Hoover, Dekko, Framebridge, Leaf Media and Leaf Marketplace reporting units. The expected cash flows took into account historical growth rates, the effect of the changed economic outlook at the Company’s businesses, industry challenges and an estimate for the possible impact of any applicable regulations.
• Cash flows beyond 2027 and 2032, where applicable, were projected to grow at a long-term growth rate, which the Company estimated between 1.5% and 3% for each reporting unit.
• The Company used a discount rate of 10% to 23% to risk adjust the cash flow projections in determining the estimated fair value.
The fair value of each of the reporting units exceeded its respective carrying value as of November 30, 2022, with the exception of the Leaf Media and Leaf Marketplace reporting units as described above.
The estimated fair values of the Dekko, Framebridge, and Leaf Media reporting units exceeded their carrying values by a margin less than 25%. The Company recorded goodwill impairments at the Leaf Media and Dekko reporting units in 2022 and 2021, respectively. The total goodwill at these reporting units was $166.4 million as of December 31, 2022, or 11% of the total goodwill of the Company. There exists a reasonable possibility that a decrease in the assumed projected cash flows or long-term growth rate, or an increase in the discount rate assumption used in the discounted cash flow model of these reporting units, could result in additional impairment charges.
The estimated fair value of the Company’s other reporting units with significant goodwill balances exceeded their respective carrying values by a margin in excess of 25%. It is possible that impairment charges could occur in the future, as changes in market conditions and the inherent variability in projecting future operating performance could result in adverse changes in projections for future operating results or other key assumptions, such as projected revenue, profit margin, capital expenditures or cash flows associated with fair value estimates and could lead to additional future impairments, which could be material.
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Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
The Company initially assesses qualitative factors to determine if it is more likely than not that the fair value of its indefinite-lived intangible assets is less than its carrying value. The Company compares the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset with its carrying value if the qualitative factors indicate it is more likely than not that the fair value of the asset is less than its carrying value or if it decides to bypass the qualitative assessment. The Company records an impairment loss if the carrying value of the indefinite-lived intangible assets exceeds the fair value of the assets for the difference in the values. The Company uses a discounted cash flow model, and, in certain cases, a market value approach is also utilized to supplement the discounted cash flow model to determine the estimated fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible assets. The Company makes estimates and assumptions regarding future cash flows, discount rates, long-term growth rates and other market values to determine the estimated fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible assets. The Company’s policy requires the performance of a quantitative impairment review of the indefinite-lived intangible assets at least once every three years.
The Company’s intangible assets with an indefinite life are principally from trade names, franchise rights and FCC licenses. The fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible assets exceeded their respective carrying values as of November 30, 2022. There is always a possibility that impairment charges could occur in the future, as changes in market conditions and the inherent variability in projecting future operating performance could result in adverse changes in projections for future operating results or other key assumptions, such as projected revenue, profit margin, capital expenditures or cash flows associated with fair value estimates and could lead to additional future impairments, which could be material.
Pension Costs. The Company sponsors a defined benefit pension plan for eligible employees in the U.S. Excluding curtailment gains, settlement gains and special termination benefits, the Company’s net pension credit was $170.2 million, $93.0 million and $55.4 million for 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The Company’s pension benefit obligation and related credits are actuarially determined and are impacted significantly by the Company’s assumptions related to future events, including the discount rate, expected return on plan assets and rate of compensation increases. The Company evaluates these critical assumptions at least annually and, periodically, evaluates other assumptions involving demographic factors, such as retirement age, mortality and turnover, and updates them to reflect its experience and expectations for the future. Actual results in any given year will often differ from actuarial assumptions because of economic and other factors.
The Company assumed a 6.25% expected return on plan assets for 2022, 2021 and 2020. The Company’s actual (loss) return on plan assets was (23.4%) in 2022, 24.4% in 2021 and 25.4% in 2020. The 10-year and 20-year actual returns on plan assets on an annual basis were 8.8% and 8.6%, respectively.
Accumulated and projected benefit obligations are measured as the present value of future cash payments. The Company discounts those cash payments using the weighted average of market-observed yields for high-quality fixed-income securities with maturities that correspond to the payment of benefits. Lower discount rates increase present values and generally increase subsequent-year pension costs; higher discount rates decrease present values and decrease subsequent-year pension costs. The Company’s discount rate at December 31, 2022, 2021 and 2020, was 5.5%, 2.9% and 2.5%, respectively, reflecting market interest rates.
Changes in key assumptions for the Company’s pension plan would have had the following effects on the 2022 pension credit, excluding curtailment gains, settlement gains and special termination benefits:
• Expected return on assets – A 1% increase or decrease to the Company’s assumed expected return on plan assets would have increased or decreased the pension credit by approximately $26.8 million.
• Discount rate – A 1% decrease to the Company’s assumed discount rate would have decreased the pension credit by approximately $15.0 million. A 1% increase to the Company’s assumed discount rate would have increased the pension credit by approximately $12.4 million.
The Company’s net pension credit includes an expected return on plan assets component, calculated using the expected return on plan assets assumption applied to a market-related value of plan assets. The market-related value of plan assets is determined using a five-year average market value method, which recognizes realized and unrealized appreciation and depreciation in market values over a five-year period. The value resulting from applying this method is adjusted, if necessary, such that it cannot be less than 80% or more than 120% of the market value of plan assets as of the relevant measurement date. As a result, year-to-year increases or decreases in the market-related value of plan assets impact the return on plan assets component of pension credit for the year.
At the end of each year, differences between the actual return on plan assets and the expected return on plan assets are combined with other differences in actual versus expected experience to form a net unamortized actuarial gain or loss in accumulated other comprehensive income. Only those net actuarial gains or losses in excess of the deferred realized and unrealized appreciation and depreciation are potentially subject to amortization.
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The types of items that generate actuarial gains and losses that may be subject to amortization in net periodic pension (credit) cost include the following:
• Asset returns that are more or less than the expected return on plan assets for the year;
• Actual participant demographic experience different from assumed (retirements, terminations and deaths during the year);
• Actual salary increases different from assumed; and
• Any changes in assumptions that are made to better reflect anticipated experience of the plan or to reflect current market conditions on the measurement date (discount rate, longevity increases, changes in expected participant behavior and expected return on plan assets).
Amortization of the unrecognized actuarial gain or loss is included as a component of pension credit for a year if the magnitude of the net unamortized gain or loss in accumulated other comprehensive income exceeds 10% of the greater of the benefit obligation or the market-related value of assets (10% corridor). The amortization component is equal to that excess divided by the average remaining service period of active employees expected to receive benefits under the plan. At the end of 2019, the Company had no net unamortized actuarial gains in accumulated other comprehensive income subject to amortization outside the 10% corridor, and therefore, no amortized gain was included in the pension credit for 2020.
During 2020, there were significant pension asset gains offset by a decrease in the discount rate that resulted in net unamortized actuarial gains in accumulated other comprehensive income subject to amortization outside the 10% corridor, and therefore, an amortized gain of $7.9 million was included in the pension credit for 2021.
During 2021, there were significant pension asset gains and an increase in the discount rate that resulted in net unamortized actuarial gains in accumulated other comprehensive income subject to amortization outside the 10% corridor, and therefore, an amortized gain of $68.7 million was included in the pension credit for 2022.
During 2022, there were significant pension asset losses partially offset by an increase in the discount rate. The Company currently estimates that there will be net unamortized actuarial gains in accumulated other comprehensive income subject to amortization outside the 10% corridor, and therefore, an amortized gain amount of $40.6 million is included in the estimated pension credit for 2023.
Overall, the Company estimates that it will record a net pension credit of approximately $109 million in 2023.
Note 15 to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements provides additional details surrounding pension costs and related assumptions.
Accounting for Income Taxes.
Valuation Allowances
Deferred income taxes arise from temporary differences between the tax and financial statement recognition of assets and liabilities. In evaluating its ability to recover deferred tax assets within the jurisdiction from which they arise, the Company considers all available positive and negative evidence, including scheduled reversals of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, tax planning strategies and recent financial operations. These assumptions require significant judgment about forecasts of future taxable income.
As of December 31, 2022, the Company had state income tax net operating loss carryforwards of $1,049.7 million, which will expire at various future dates. Also at December 31, 2022, the Company had $91.1 million of non-U.S. income tax loss carryforwards, of which $50.7 million may be carried forward indefinitely; $26.0 million of losses that, if unutilized, will expire in varying amounts through 2027; and $14.4 million of losses that, if unutilized, will start to expire after 2027. At December 31, 2022, the Company has established approximately $62.8 million in total valuation allowances, primarily against deferred state tax assets, net of U.S. Federal income taxes, and non-U.S. deferred tax assets, as the Company believes that it is more likely than not that the benefit from certain state and non-U.S. net operating loss carryforwards and other deferred tax assets will not be realized. The Company has established valuation allowances against state income tax benefits recognized, without considering potentially offsetting deferred tax liabilities established with respect to prepaid pension cost and goodwill. Prepaid pension cost and goodwill have not been considered a source of future taxable income for realizing deferred tax benefits recognized since these temporary differences are not likely to reverse in the foreseeable future. However, certain deferred state tax assets have an indefinite life. As a result, the Company has considered deferred tax liabilities for prepaid pension cost and goodwill as a source of future taxable income for realizing those deferred state tax assets. The valuation allowances established against state and non-U.S. income tax benefits recorded may increase or decrease within the next 12 months, based on operating results, the market value of investment holdings or
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business and tax planning strategies; as a result, the Company is unable to estimate the potential tax impact, given the uncertain operating and market environment. The Company will be monitoring future operating results and projected future operating results on a quarterly basis to determine whether the valuation allowances provided against state and non-U.S. deferred tax assets should be increased or decreased, as future circumstances warrant.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements. See Note 2 to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of recent accounting pronouncements.
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FY 2021 10-K MD&A
SEC filing source: 0000104889-22-000011.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND FINANCIAL CONDITION
This analysis should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and the notes thereto. Refer to Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in the Graham Holdings Company's 2020 Annual Report on Form 10-K for management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to the year ended December 31, 2019.
OVERVIEW
Graham Holdings Company (the Company) is a diversified education and media company whose operations include educational services; television broadcasting; online, podcast, print and local TV news and other content; social-media advertising services; manufacturing; automotive dealerships; restaurants and entertainment venues; custom framing; home health and hospice care; and a consumer internet company. Education is the largest business, and through its subsidiary Kaplan, Inc., the Company provides extensive worldwide education services for individuals, schools and businesses. The Company’s second largest business is television broadcasting. In 2021, the Company completed an acquisition of a consumer internet company. The Company’s business units are diverse and subject to different trends and risks.
The Company’s education division is the largest operating division of the Company, accounting for 43% of the Company’s consolidated revenues in 2021. The Company has devoted significant resources and attention to this division for many years, given its geographic and product diversity; the investment opportunities and growth prospects during this time; and challenges related to government regulation. Kaplan is organized into the following three operating segments: Kaplan International, Kaplan Higher Education (KHE) and Supplemental Education.
Kaplan International reported revenue increases for 2021 due largely to growth at UK Professional and Pathways, partially offset by declines at Languages. Kaplan International operating results improved in 2021 due to a reduction in losses at Languages and improved results at Pathways and UK Professional.
KHE’s revenue grew in 2021, due to an increase in the Purdue University Global (Purdue Global) fee recorded and an increase in revenue from other higher education institutions. KHE recorded $34.8 million and $31.6 million in fees from Purdue Global in its Higher Education operating results in 2021 and 2020, respectively, based on an assessment of its collectability under the Transition and Operations Support Agreement (TOSA).
Supplemental Education revenues decreased in 2021 due to a decline in retail comprehensive test preparation demand and classroom-based course offerings, offset in part by growth in securities, insurance and real estate programs. Supplemental Education operating income improved in 2021 due to savings from restructuring activities implemented in 2020.
Kaplan made two acquisitions in 2021; two acquisitions in 2020; and one acquisition in 2019.
The Company’s television broadcasting division reported lower revenues and operating income in 2021, due to significant decreases in political advertising, partially offset by increased local and national advertising revenues, which were adversely impacted in 2020 by reduced demand related to the COVID-19 pandemic, increased retransmission revenues, and increased revenue from summer Olympics-related advertising revenue at the Company’s NBC affiliates. In recent years, the television broadcasting division has consistently generated significantly higher operating income amounts and operating income margins than the education division and other businesses.
The Company’s manufacturing division has provided meaningful operating cash flow over the last few years, despite reduced demand due to the COVID-19 pandemic at certain businesses. The Company’s healthcare business has grown substantially over the last few years due to internal growth and acquisitions, with a meaningful increase in operating results in the past two years.
With the recent acquisitions of Leaf, Framebridge, three automotive dealerships and Clyde’s Restaurant Group, and recent acquisitions at healthcare and manufacturing, the Company has invested in new lines of business in the last few years.
The Company generates a significant amount of cash from its businesses that is used to support its operations, pay down debt and fund capital expenditures, share repurchases, dividends, acquisitions and other investments.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Net income attributable to common shares was $352.1 million ($70.45 per share) for the year ended December 31, 2021, compared to $300.4 million ($58.13 per share) for the year ended December 31, 2020.
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The COVID-19 pandemic and measures taken to prevent its spread significantly impacted the Company’s results for 2020 and 2021, largely from reduced demand for the Company’s products and services. This significant adverse impact is expected to continue into 2022, although at a reduced level. The Company’s management has taken a variety of measures to reduce costs and to implement changes to business operations. The Company cannot predict the severity or duration of the pandemic, the extent to which demand for the Company’s products and services will be adversely affected or the degree to which financial and operating results will be negatively impacted.
Items included in the Company’s net income for 2021 are listed below:
•a $3.9 million net credit related to fair value changes in contingent consideration from prior acquisitions ($0.78 per share);
•a $1.0 million reduction to operating expenses from property, plant and equipment gains in connection with the spectrum repacking mandate of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) (after-tax impact of $0.8 million, or $0.16 per share);
•$31.6 million in goodwill and other long-lived asset impairment charges (after-tax impact of $26.0 million, or $5.19 per share);
•$12.6 million in net earnings of affiliates whose operations are not managed by the Company (after-tax impact of $9.3 million, or $1.86 per share);
•$4.1 million in interest expense to adjust the fair value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest (after-tax impact of $4.0 million, or $0.80 per share);
•$1.1 million in expenses related to a non-operating Separation Incentive Program (SIP) at manufacturing (after-tax impact of $0.8 million, or $0.16 per share);
•$243.1 million in net gains on marketable equity securities (after-tax impact of $179.7 million, or $35.96 per share);
•Non-operating gains, net, of $13.6 million from write-ups, sales and impairments of cost and equity method investments (after-tax impact of $10.1 million, or $2.02 per share);
•$0.2 million in non-operating foreign currency losses (after-tax impact of $0.1 million, or $0.03 per share); and
•a $17.2 million deferred tax benefit arising from a change in the estimated deferred state income tax rate related to the Company’s pension and other postretirement plans ($3.45 per share).
Items included in the Company’s net income for 2020 are listed below:
•$27.9 million in goodwill and other long-lived asset impairment charges (after-tax impact of $20.2 million, or $3.92 per share);
•$16.1 million in restructuring charges at the education division (after-tax impact of $11.9 million, or $2.31 per share);
•$5.7 million in accelerated depreciation at other businesses (after-tax impact of $4.1 million, or $0.80 per share);
•a $2.9 million reduction to operating expenses from property, plant and equipment gains in connection with the spectrum repacking mandate of the FCC (after-tax impact of $2.3 million, or $0.44 per share);
•$2.1 million in net losses of affiliates whose operations are not managed by the Company (after-tax impact of $1.6 million, or $0.31 per share);
•$8.5 million in interest expense in the fourth quarter to adjust the fair value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest ($1.64 per share);
•$11.5 million in expenses related to non-operating SIP activity at the education division and other businesses (after-tax impact of $8.5 million, or $1.64 per share);
•$60.8 million in net gains on marketable equity securities (after-tax impact of $44.7 million, or $8.64 per share);
•a fourth quarter gain of $209.8 million on the sale of Megaphone (after-tax impact of $154.2 million, or $29.84 per share);
•Non-operating losses, net, of $1.5 million from impairments, sales and write-ups of cost and equity method investments (after-tax impact of $1.1 million, or $0.21 per share);
•$2.2 million in non-operating foreign currency losses (after-tax impact of $1.6 million, or $0.31 per share); and
•$2.9 million in income tax expense related to stock compensation ($0.56 per share).
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Revenue for 2021 was $3,186.0 million, up 10% from $2,889.1 million in 2020. Revenues increased at education, manufacturing, healthcare, automotive and other businesses, partially offset by a decrease at television broadcasting. Operating costs and expenses for the year increased to $3,108.6 million in 2021, from $2,788.7 million in 2020. Expenses in 2021 increased across all divisions. The Company reported operating income for 2021 of $77.4 million, compared to $100.4 million in 2020. Operating results declined at television broadcasting and manufacturing, partially offset by improvements at education and automotive.
Division Results
Education
Education division revenue in 2021 totaled $1,361.2 million, up 4% from $1,305.7 million in 2020. Kaplan reported operating income of $50.6 million for 2021, an increase from $11.6 million in 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic adversely impacted Kaplan’s operating results beginning in February 2020 and continued through 2021.
Kaplan serves a large number of students who travel to other countries to study a second language, prepare for licensure, or pursue a higher education degree. Government-imposed travel restrictions and school closures arising from COVID-19 had a significant negative impact on the ability of international students to travel and attend Kaplan’s programs, particularly Kaplan International’s Language programs. In addition, most licensing bodies and administrators of standardized exams postponed or canceled scheduled examinations due to COVID-19, resulting in a significant number of students deciding to defer their studies, negatively impacting Kaplan’s exam preparation education businesses. Overall, if COVID-19 restrictions persist, then Kaplan’s revenues and operating results in 2022 could be adversely impacted, particularly at Kaplan International Languages.
To help mitigate the adverse impact of COVID-19, Kaplan implemented a number of cost reduction and restructuring activities across its businesses. Related to these restructuring activities, for 2021, Kaplan recorded $3.3 million in lease impairment charges (including $1.9 million in property, plant and equipment write-downs). In 2020, Kaplan recorded $13.5 million in lease restructuring costs (including $3.6 million of accelerated depreciation expense) and $6.2 million in severance restructuring costs. Kaplan also recorded $12.3 million in lease impairment charges in connection with these plans in 2020 (including $2.2 million in property, plant and equipment write-downs). Further, Kaplan recorded $12.8 million in non-operating pension expense in 2020 related to workforce reductions completed in the second and third quarters.
In 2020, Kaplan also accelerated the development and promotion of various online programs and solutions, rapidly transitioned most of its classroom-based programs online and addressed the individual needs of its students and partners, substantially reducing the disruption from COVID-19 while simultaneously adding important new product offerings and operating capabilities. Further, in the fourth quarter of 2020, Kaplan combined its three primary divisions based in the United States (Kaplan Test Prep, Kaplan Professional, and Kaplan Higher Education) into one business known as Kaplan North America (KNA). This combination was designed to enhance Kaplan’s competitiveness by better leveraging its diversified academic and professional portfolio, as well as its relationships with students, universities and businesses. For financial reporting purposes, KNA is reported in two segments: Higher Education and Supplemental Education (combining Kaplan Test Prep and Kaplan Professional (U.S.) into one reporting segment).
A summary of Kaplan’s operating results is as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2021 | 2020 | % Change | ||||||
| Revenue | |||||||||
| Kaplan international | $ | 726,875 | $ | 653,892 | 11 | ||||
| Higher education | 317,854 | 316,095 | 1 | ||||||
| Supplemental education | 309,069 | 327,087 | (6) | ||||||
| Kaplan corporate and other | 14,759 | 12,643 | 17 | ||||||
| Intersegment elimination | (7,312) | (4,004) | — | ||||||
| $ | 1,361,245 | $ | 1,305,713 | 4 | |||||
| Operating Income (Loss) | |||||||||
| Kaplan international | $ | 33,457 | $ | 15,248 | — | ||||
| Higher education | 24,134 | 24,364 | (1) | ||||||
| Supplemental education | 36,919 | 19,705 | 87 | ||||||
| Kaplan corporate and other | (24,715) | (18,266) | (35) | ||||||
| Amortization of intangible assets | (16,001) | (17,174) | 7 | ||||||
| Impairment of long-lived assets | (3,318) | (12,278) | 73 | ||||||
| Intersegment elimination | 97 | 5 | — | ||||||
| $ | 50,573 | $ | 11,604 | — |
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Kaplan International includes postsecondary education, professional training and language training businesses largely outside the United States. Kaplan International revenue increased 11% in 2021 (5% on a constant currency basis). The increase is due largely to growth at UK Professional and Pathways, partially offset by declines at Languages. Kaplan International reported operating income of $33.5 million in 2021, compared to $15.2 million in 2020. The increase in operating results is due to a reduction in losses at Languages and improved results at Pathways and UK Professional. Overall, Kaplan International’s operating results were negatively impacted by $43 million and $55 million in losses, respectively, incurred at Languages from continued significant COVID-19 disruptions in 2021 and 2020. In addition, Kaplan International’s 2020 results include $4.5 million of lease restructuring costs (including $1.6 million in accelerated depreciation expense) and $4.4 million of severance restructuring costs. If a continuation of travel restrictions imposed as a result of COVID-19 persists, Kaplan expects the disruption of its Languages business operating environment to continue into 2022.
Higher Education primarily includes the results of Kaplan as a service provider to higher education institutions. In 2021, Higher Education revenue increased 1% due to an increase in the Purdue Global fee recorded and an increase in revenue from other higher education institutions. In 2021 and 2020, Kaplan recorded a portion of the fee with Purdue Global based on an assessment of its collectability under the TOSA. The Company will continue to assess the collectability of the fee with Purdue Global on a quarterly basis to make a determination as to whether to record all or part of the fee in the future and whether to make adjustments to fee amounts recognized in earlier periods. During 2021 and 2020, Kaplan recorded $34.8 million and $31.6 million, respectively, in fees from Purdue Global in its Higher Education operating results. Kaplan Higher Education recorded $3.6 million in lease restructuring costs in 2020, of which $0.2 million was accelerated depreciation expense.
Supplemental Education includes Kaplan’s standardized test preparation programs and domestic professional and other continuing education businesses. In November 2021, Supplemental Education acquired two small businesses. Supplemental Education revenue decreased 6% in 2021 due to a decline in retail comprehensive test preparation demand and classroom-based course offerings, offset in part by growth in securities, insurance and real estate programs. Operating results increased 87% in 2021 due to savings from restructuring activities implemented in 2020, and $5.4 million of lease restructuring costs ($1.8 million of which was accelerated depreciation) and $1.8 million in severance restructuring costs incurred in 2020.
Kaplan corporate and other represents unallocated expenses of Kaplan, Inc.’s corporate office, other minor businesses and certain shared activities. Overall, Kaplan corporate and other expenses increased in 2021 due to normalization of compensation costs compared to 2020, which included salary abatements and reduced incentive compensation accruals.
Television Broadcasting
A summary of television broadcasting’s operating results is as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2021 | 2020 | % Change | ||||||||||||
| Revenue | $ | 494,177 | $ | 525,212 | (6) | ||||||||||
| Operating Income | 149,422 | 194,498 | (23) |
Revenue at the television broadcasting division decreased 6% to $494.2 million in 2021, from $525.2 million in 2020. The revenue decrease is due to an $89.0 million decline in political advertising revenue, partially offset by increased local and national advertising revenues, which were adversely impacted in 2020 by reduced demand related to the COVID-19 pandemic, a $12.3 million increase in retransmission revenues, and increased revenue from summer Olympics-related advertising revenue at the Company’s NBC affiliates. The increase in local and national television advertising was from growth in the home products, health and fitness, and sports betting categories. In 2021 and 2020, the television broadcasting division recorded $1.0 million and $2.9 million, respectively, in reductions to operating expenses related to property, plant and equipment gains due to new equipment received at no cost in connection with the spectrum repacking mandate of the FCC. Operating income for 2021 was down 23% to $149.4 million, from $194.5 million in 2020, due to reduced revenues and higher network fees. While per subscriber rates from cable and satellite providers have grown, overall cable and satellite subscribers are down due to cord cutting, resulting in low growth in retransmission revenue net of network fees in 2021, which is expected to continue in the future.
Operating margin at the television broadcasting division was 30% in 2021 and 37% in 2020.
Graham Media Group’s broadcast stations remained well-positioned and competitive in their markets, despite overall viewing declines from a heightened 2020. On average for the year, KSAT in San Antonio and WJXT in Jacksonville once again ranked number one in the key 6 a.m., 6 p.m. and late newscasts among the all-important 25 to 54 demographic. WDIV in Detroit ended the year as a dominant number one at 6 p.m. and in late news, while number two in the mornings. KPRC wrapped up 2021 as a solid number two in evening and late newscasts, third at
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6 a.m. with minimal separation from competitors. WKMG grew market position in morning and late news, finishing number two while remaining third at 6 p.m. WSLS remained third in key newscasts for the year, while syndication remained a strength for WCWJ in daytime and early fringe. Our local station’s websites finished another year as the number one media sites in their respective markets.
Manufacturing
A summary of manufacturing’s operating results is as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2021 | 2020 | % Change | ||||||||||||
| Revenue | $ | 458,125 | $ | 416,137 | 10 | ||||||||||
| Operating (Loss) Income | (16,048) | 12,328 | — |
Manufacturing includes four businesses: Hoover, a supplier of pressure impregnated kiln-dried lumber and plywood products for fire retardant and preservative applications; Dekko, a manufacturer of electrical workspace solutions, architectural lighting and electrical components and assemblies; Joyce/Dayton, a manufacturer of screw jacks and other linear motion systems; and Forney, a global supplier of products and systems that control and monitor combustion processes in electric utility and industrial applications.
Manufacturing revenues increased 10% in 2021 due to significantly increased revenues at Hoover from substantially higher wood prices in 2021 and increased revenues at Joyce/Dayton, partially offset by lower revenues at Forney and declines at Dekko from lower product demand, particularly in the commercial office electrical products and hospitality sectors. Wood prices have been highly volatile in 2021 and 2020; overall, Hoover results include gains on inventory sales in 2021 and 2020 from generally increasing wood prices during these years. Manufacturing operating results declined in 2021 due to $28.0 million in goodwill and other long-lived asset impairment charges; $26.7 million of this charge was recorded at Dekko in the third quarter of 2021, due to continued weakness in demand for certain Dekko products related to the COVID-19 pandemic, increases in labor and commodity costs and related supply chain challenges. Excluding these impairment charges, manufacturing results were down modestly in 2021 due to declines at Dekko and Forney, partially offset by overall improved results at Hoover. The Company’s manufacturing businesses are operating in a highly competitive market for production labor, resulting in substantial wage increases and higher labor costs in 2021.
In the second quarter of 2021, Dekko announced a plan to relocate its manufacturing operations in Shelton, CT to other Dekko manufacturing facilities, which was substantially completed by the end of 2021. In connection with this activity, Dekko implemented a SIP for the affected employees, resulting in $1.1 million in non-operating SIP expense recorded in the second quarter of 2021, to be funded by the assets of the Company's pension plan.
Healthcare
A summary of healthcare’s operating results is as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2021 | 2020 | % Change | ||||||||||||
| Revenue | $ | 223,030 | $ | 198,196 | 13 | ||||||||||
| Operating Income | 26,806 | 26,107 | 3 |
The Graham Healthcare Group (GHG) provides home health and hospice services in four states. In December 2021, GHG acquired two small businesses, one of which expanded GHG’s home health operations into Florida. GHG provides other healthcare services, including nursing care and prescription services for patients receiving in-home infusion treatments through its 75% interest in CSI Pharmacy Holding Company, LLC (CSI). Healthcare revenues increased 13% in 2021, largely due to growth at CSI and home health services. The increase in GHG operating results in 2021 is due to improved results from CSI and home health services, partially offset by a decline in results from hospice services. GHG is operating in a highly competitive market for nurses and clinical staffing, resulting in substantial compensation increases in 2021. In certain cases, this challenging competitive market has adversely impacted GHG’s ability to meet existing customer demand.
In the second quarter of 2020, GHG received $7.4 million from the Federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) Provider Relief Fund. GHG did not apply for these funds; they were disbursed to GHG as a Medicare provider under the CARES Act. Under the Department of Health and Human Services guidelines, these funds may be used to offset revenue reductions and expenses incurred in connection with the COVID-19 pandemic. Of this amount, GHG recorded $5.7 million in revenue in the second and third quarters of 2020, to partially offset the impact of revenue reductions due to the COVID-19 pandemic from the curtailment of elective procedures by health systems and other factors. The remaining amount of $1.7 million was recorded as a credit to operating costs in the
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second quarter of 2020 to partially offset the impact of costs incurred to procure personal protective equipment for GHG employees and other COVID-19 related costs.
The Company also holds interests in four home health and hospice joint ventures managed by GHG, whose results are included in equity in earnings of affiliates in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. In 2021 and 2020, the Company recorded equity in earnings of $10.2 million and $9.7 million, respectively, from these joint ventures.
Automotive
A summary of automotive’s operating results is as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in thousands) | 2021 | 2020 | % Change | ||||||||||||
| Revenue | $ | 327,069 | $ | 258,144 | 27 | ||||||||||
| Operating Income (Loss) | 11,771 | (6,196) | — |
Automotive includes four automotive dealerships in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area: Ourisman Lexus of Rockville, Ourisman Honda of Tysons Corner, Ourisman Jeep Bethesda and Ourisman Ford of Manassas. On December 28, 2021, the Company acquired Ford of Manassas located in Manassas, VA from the Battlefield Automotive Group. Christopher J. Ourisman, a member of the Ourisman Automotive Group family of dealerships, and his team of industry professionals operates and manages the dealerships; the Company holds a 90% stake.
Revenues for 2021 increased 27% due to sales growth at each of the three legacy dealerships, due partly to significantly reduced demand for sales and service in the first half of 2020 at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, and higher average new and used car selling prices as a result of strong consumer demand and inventory shortages related to supply chain disruptions and production delays at vehicle manufacturers. In the first quarter of 2020, the Company’s automotive dealerships recorded a $6.7 million intangible asset impairment charge as a result of the pandemic and the related recessionary conditions. Operating results for 2021 improved significantly from the prior year due to increased sales and margins, in addition to the impairment charge recorded in the first quarter of 2020.
Other Businesses
Leaf Group
On June 14, 2021, the Company closed on the acquisition of all outstanding shares of common stock of Leaf Group Ltd. (Leaf) at $8.50 per share in an all cash transaction valued at approximately $322 million. Leaf Group, headquartered in Santa Monica, CA, is a consumer internet company that builds enduring, creator-driven brands that reach passionate audiences in large and growing lifestyle categories, including fitness and wellness (Well+Good, Livestrong.com and MyPlate App), and home, art and design (Saatchi Art, Society6 and Hunker).
The Leaf operating results for the period June 14, 2021 to December 31, 2021 are included in other businesses. Leaf has three major operating divisions: Society6 Group and Saatchi Art Group (Marketplace businesses) and the Media Group. Overall, Leaf reported an operating loss for the second half of 2021.
Clyde’s Restaurant Group
Clyde’s Restaurant Group (CRG) owns and operates eleven restaurants and entertainment venues in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, including Old Ebbitt Grill and The Hamilton. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, CRG temporarily closed all of its restaurants and venues in March 2020 through mid-June 2020, pursuant to government orders, maintaining limited operations for delivery and pickup. CRG recorded a $9.7 million goodwill and intangible assets impairment charge in the first quarter of 2020. In June 2020, CRG made the decision to close its restaurant and entertainment venue in Columbia, MD effective July 19, 2020, resulting in accelerated depreciation of property, plant and equipment totaling $5.7 million recorded in the second and third quarters of 2020. In December 2020, CRG temporarily closed its restaurant dining rooms in Maryland and the District of Columbia for the second time, reopening again for limited indoor dining service in mid-February 2021. Dining restrictions from government orders were substantially lifted for all of CRG’s operations by the end of the second quarter of 2021.
Overall, CRG incurred significant operating losses in 2021 and 2020 due to limited revenues and costs incurred to maintain its facilities and support its employees; however, the losses incurred in 2021 were significantly lower than the losses in 2020. While CRG operations have been adversely impacted as a result of the pandemic, both revenues and operating results improved substantially in 2021 as the year progressed.
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Framebridge
On May 15, 2020, the Company acquired Framebridge, Inc., a custom framing service company, headquartered in Washington, D.C., with two retail locations in the D.C. metropolitan area and a manufacturing facility in Richmond, KY. At the end of 2021, Framebridge had fifteen retail locations in the Washington, D.C., New York City, Atlanta, GA, Philadelphia, PA, Boston, MA and Chicago, IL areas and three manufacturing facilities in Kentucky and New Jersey. Framebridge expects to open four additional stores in the first half of 2022. Framebridge revenues in 2021 increased from the prior year; however, revenues were down modestly in the fourth quarter of 2021 due to limited production capacity related to the challenging labor market and COVID-19 related workforce absences. In the fourth quarter of 2021, Framebridge prioritized the production of holiday guaranteed orders successfully and continue to manage a significant backlog of orders into the first quarter of 2022. Framebridge is an investment stage business and reported significant operating losses in 2021.
Code3
Code3 is a performance marketing agency focused on driving performance for brands through three core elements of digital success: media, creative and commerce. Code3 revenues were relatively flat in 2021 compared to 2020, with strong growth in creative and commerce revenues, offset by a decline in marketing spending by some advertising clients. Code3 reported overall operating losses in 2021 and 2020. In the second quarter of 2021, Code3 recorded a $1.6 million lease impairment charge (including $0.4 million in property, plant and equipment write-downs). Excluding this impairment charge, Code3 reported operating income for 2021. In the second quarter of 2020, Code3 recorded a $1.5 million lease impairment charge (including $0.1 million in property, plant and equipment write-downs) in connection with a restructuring plan that included other cost reduction initiatives. These initiatives included the approval of a SIP that reduced the number of employees at Code3, resulting in $1.0 million in non-operating pension expense in the second quarter of 2020.
Megaphone
Megaphone was sold by the Company to Spotify in December 2020.
Other
Other businesses also include Slate and Foreign Policy, which publish online and print magazines and websites; and four investment stage businesses, CyberVista, Decile and Pinna, as well as City Cast, a local daily podcast business that began operations in 2021. All of these businesses reported revenue increases in 2021. Losses from each of these six businesses in 2021 adversely affected operating results.
Overall, for 2021, operating revenues for other businesses increased due largely to increases from the Leaf and Framebridge acquisitions and increases at CRG, partially offset by declines due to the sale of Megaphone in December 2020. Operating results declined in 2021 due to increased losses at Framebridge and losses at Leaf, partially offset by improvements at CRG, in addition to the goodwill and other long-lived asset impairment charges recorded in the first quarter of 2020 at CRG.
Corporate Office
Corporate office includes the expenses of the Company’s corporate office and certain continuing obligations related to prior business dispositions. Corporate office expenses increased in 2021 due primarily to higher compensation costs, offset by a credit related to the fair value change in contingent consideration related to the Framebridge acquisition.
Equity in Earnings of Affiliates
At December 31, 2021, the Company held an approximate 12% interest in Intersection Holdings, LLC (Intersection), a company that provides digital marketing and advertising services and products for cities, transit systems, airports, and other public and private spaces. The Company also holds interests in several other affiliates, including a number of home health and hospice joint ventures managed by GHG and two joint ventures managed by Kaplan. The Company recorded equity in earnings of affiliates of $17.9 million and $6.7 million for 2021 and 2020, respectively. These amounts include $12.6 million in net earnings for 2021 and $2.1 million in net losses for 2020 from affiliates whose operations are not managed by the Company; this includes losses from the Company’s investment in Intersection for 2021. The Company also recorded $6.4 million in write-downs in equity in earnings of affiliates related to one of its investments in the third quarter of 2021 and $3.6 million in write-downs in equity in earnings of affiliates related to two of its investments in the first quarter of 2020.
The recessionary environment resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic adversely impacted the underlying businesses of Intersection due to lower marketing spending by advertising clients. The decline in revenues adversely impacted the operating results and liquidity of the business since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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The Company concluded that these events are not indicative of an other than temporary decline in the value of its investment to an amount less than its carrying value. Given the uncertain economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is possible that an other than temporary impairment charge could occur in the future should Intersection fail to execute on its operating strategy to address the decline in revenues and operating results. Further, the Company recorded a $30.5 million loss in equity earnings related to Intersection in 2021 and expects to record additional losses in 2022.
Net Interest Expense and Related Balances
In October 2021, the automotive subsidiary of the Company borrowed $24.75 million and entered into an interest rate swap to fix the interest rate on the debt at 4.118% per annum; the proceeds from this borrowing were used to repay the outstanding balance of the automotive subsidiary debt that was due on January 31, 2029. The automotive subsidiary is required to repay the loan over a 10-year period by making monthly installment payments and one final payment on October 1, 2031. Additionally, in connection with the Ford automotive dealership acquisition, in December 2021, the automotive subsidiary borrowed $22.5 million, which bears interest at SOFR plus 2.05% per annum. The automotive subsidiary is required to repay the loan over a 10-year period by making monthly installment payments.
The Company incurred net interest expense of $30.5 million in 2021, compared to $34.4 million in 2020. The Company recorded net interest expense of $4.1 million in 2021 to adjust the fair value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest at GHG. The Company recorded interest expense of $8.5 million to adjust the fair value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest at GHG in the fourth quarter of 2020.
At December 31, 2021, the Company had $667.5 million in borrowings outstanding at an average interest rate of 4.3%, and cash, marketable securities and other investments of $983.3 million. At December 31, 2021, the Company had $209.6 million outstanding on its $300 million revolving credit facility. At December 31, 2020, the Company had $512.6 million in borrowings outstanding at an average interest rate of 5.1%, and cash, marketable securities and other investments of $1,010.6 million.
Non-Operating Pension and Postretirement Benefit Income, Net
The Company recorded net non-operating pension and postretirement benefit income of $109.2 million in 2021, compared to $59.3 million in 2020.
In the second quarter of 2021, the Company recorded $1.1 million in expenses related to a non-operating SIP at manufacturing. In the third quarter of 2020, the Company recorded $7.8 million in expenses related to a non-operating SIP at the education division. In the second quarter of 2020, the Company recorded $6.0 million in expenses related to a non-operating SIP at the education division and other businesses.
Gain on Marketable Equity Securities, Net
The Company recognized $243.1 million and $60.8 million in net gains on marketable equity securities in 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Other Non-Operating Income
The Company recorded total other non-operating income, net, of $32.6 million in 2021, compared to $214.5 million in 2020. The 2021 amounts included $11.8 million in fair value increases on cost method investments; $9.4 million in gains on sales of cost method investments; $3.8 million in gains related to sales of businesses and contingent consideration and other items. The 2020 amounts included $213.3 million in net gains related to sales of businesses and contingent consideration; $4.2 million in fair value increases on cost method investments; $3.7 million gain on acquiring a controlling interest in an equity affiliate; $1.4 million net gain on sales of equity affiliates and other items; partially offset by $7.3 million in impairments on cost method investments; and $2.2 million in foreign currency losses.
Provision for Income Taxes
The Company’s effective tax rate for 2021 was 21.4%. The Company’s effective tax rate for 2021 was favorably impacted by a $17.2 million deferred tax adjustment arising from a change in the estimated deferred state income tax rate attributable to the apportionment formula used in the calculation of deferred taxes related to the Company’s pension and other postretirement plans. Excluding this $17.2 million benefit, the overall income tax rate for 2021 was 25.2%.
The Company’s effective tax rate for 2020 was 26.3%. In 2020, the Company recorded income tax expense related to stock compensation of $2.9 million. Excluding this $2.9 million expense, the overall income tax rate for 2020 was 25.6%.
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FINANCIAL CONDITION: LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The Company considers the following when assessing its liquidity and capital resources:
| As of December 31 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In thousands) | 2021 | 2020 | ||||
| Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 145,886 | $ | 413,991 | ||
| Restricted cash | 12,957 | 9,063 | ||||
| Investments in marketable equity securities and other investments | 824,445 | 587,582 | ||||
| Total debt | 667,501 | 512,555 |
Cash generated by operations is the Company’s primary source of liquidity. The Company maintains investments in a portfolio of marketable equity securities, which is considered when assessing the Company’s sources of liquidity. An additional source of liquidity includes the undrawn portion of the Company’s $300 million five-year revolving credit facility, amounting to $90.4 million at December 31, 2021.
In March 2020, the U.S. government enacted legislation, including the CARES Act to provide stimulus in the form of financial aid to businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the CARES Act, employers could defer the payment of the employer share of FICA taxes due for the period beginning on March 27, 2020, and ending December 31, 2020. The Company deferred $21.5 million of FICA payments under this program, with $10.7 million of the deferred payments still payable at December 31, 2021. The remaining deferred balance is due by December 31, 2022.
The CARES Act also included provisions to support healthcare providers in the form of grants and changes to Medicare and Medicaid payments. In the second quarter of 2020, GHG received $7.4 million under the CARES Act as a general distribution from the Provider Relief Fund to provide relief for lost revenues and expenses incurred in connection with COVID-19. In addition to the above distribution, in April 2020, GHG applied for and received $31.5 million under the expanded Medicare Accelerated and Advanced Payment Program, modified by the CARES Act. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) started to recoup this advance in April 2021 by withholding a portion of the amount reimbursed for claims submitted for services provided after the beginning of the recoupment period. During 2021, an amount of $18.9 million was withheld by HHS and the Company expects the remaining balance of $12.6 million to be withheld from claims submitted in the first half of 2022.
Governments in other jurisdictions where the Company operates also provided relief to businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in the form of job retention schemes, payroll assistance, deferral of income and other tax payments, and loans. For the years ended December 31, 2021, and 2020, Kaplan has recorded benefits totaling $4.7 million and $12.2 million, respectively, related to job retention and payroll schemes, mostly at Kaplan International.
During 2021, the Company’s cash and cash equivalents decreased by $268.1 million, due to the acquisition of Leaf and several other businesses, the purchase of marketable equity securities, deferred payments on previous acquisitions, capital expenditures, dividend payments and share repurchases, which was partially offset by cash generated from operations, the net proceeds from the sale of marketable equity securities and net issuance of borrowings. In 2021, the Company’s borrowings increased by $154.9 million, due to additional borrowings under the revolving credit facility and at the automotive subsidiary, which were partially offset by repayments.
The Company had no money market investments as of December 31, 2021, compared to $268.8 million at December 31, 2020, which are included in cash and cash equivalents. At December 31, 2021, the Company held approximately $119 million in cash and cash equivalents in businesses domiciled outside the U.S., of which approximately $8 million is not available for immediate use in operations or for distribution. Additionally, Kaplan’s business operations outside the U.S. retain cash balances to support ongoing working capital requirements, capital expenditures, and regulatory requirements. As a result, the Company considers a significant portion of the cash and cash equivalents balance held outside the U.S. as not readily available for use in U.S. operations.
At December 31, 2021, the fair value of the Company’s investments in marketable equity securities was $810.0 million, which includes investments in the common stock of seven publicly traded companies. The Company purchased $48.0 million of marketable equity securities during 2021. During 2021, the Company sold marketable equity securities that generated proceeds of $65.5 million. At December 31, 2021, the net unrealized gain related to the Company’s investments totaled $536.8 million.
The Company had working capital of $680.8 million and $824.5 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The Company maintains working capital levels consistent with its underlying business requirements and consistently generates cash from operations in excess of required interest or principal payments.
At December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company had borrowings outstanding of $667.5 million and $512.6 million, respectively. The Company’s borrowings at December 31, 2021 were mostly from $400.0 million of 5.75%
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unsecured notes due June 1, 2026, $209.6 million in outstanding borrowings under the Company’s revolving credit facility and commercial notes of $47.0 million at the Automotive subsidiary. The Company’s borrowings at December 31, 2020 were mostly from $400.0 million of 5.75% unsecured notes due June 1, 2026, £55 million in outstanding borrowings under the Company’s revolving credit facility and a commercial note of $25.3 million at the Automotive subsidiary. The interest on $400.0 million of 5.75% unsecured notes is payable semiannually on June 1 and December 1.
During 2021 and 2020, the Company had average borrowings outstanding of approximately $545.2 million and $512.4 million, respectively, at average annual interest rates of approximately 4.8% and 5.1%, respectively. The Company incurred net interest expense of $30.5 million and $34.4 million, respectively, during 2021 and 2020. Included in the 2021 and 2020 interest expense is an amount of $4.1 million and $8.5 million, respectively, to adjust the fair value of the mandatorily redeemable noncontrolling interest (see Note 11).
On June 3, 2021, Moody’s affirmed the Company’s credit rating and revised the outlook from Negative to Stable. On April 27, 2021, Standard & Poor’s affirmed the Company’s credit rating and revised the outlook from Negative to Stable.
The Company’s current credit ratings are as follows:
| Moody’s | Standard & Poor’s | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Long-term | Ba1 | BB | |
| Outlook | Stable | Stable |
The Company expects to fund its estimated capital needs primarily through existing cash balances and internally generated funds, and, as needed, from borrowings under its revolving credit facility. As of December, 31, 2021, the Company had $209.6 million outstanding under the $300 million revolving credit facility, which borrowing was used to purchase land and buildings at Kaplan International’s sixth-form college in London, U.K. and at the automotive division in the third quarter of 2021, to repay the £60 million Kaplan UK credit facility that matured at the end of June 2020 and, to a lesser extent, to repurchase stock and fund various acquisitions during the fourth quarter of 2021. In management’s opinion, the Company will have sufficient financial resources to meet its business requirements in the next 12 months, including working capital requirements, capital expenditures, interest payments, potential acquisitions and strategic investments, dividends and stock repurchases.
In summary, the Company’s cash flows for each period were as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In thousands) | 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | |||||||
| Net cash provided by operating activities | $ | 202,426 | $ | 210,663 | $ | 165,164 | ||||
| Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities | (494,635) | 199,371 | (236,735) | |||||||
| Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities | 31,027 | (204,002) | 18,734 | |||||||
| Effect of currency exchange rate change | (3,029) | 2,978 | 2,766 | |||||||
| Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash | $ | (264,211) | $ | 209,010 | $ | (50,071) |
Operating Activities. Cash provided by operating activities is net income adjusted for certain non-cash items and changes in assets and liabilities. The Company’s net cash flow provided by operating activities were as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In thousands) | 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | |||||||
| Net Income | $ | 353,327 | $ | 299,968 | $ | 327,879 | ||||
| Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: | ||||||||||
| Depreciation, amortization and goodwill and other long-lived asset impairment | 162,225 | 161,207 | 121,648 | |||||||
| Amortization of lease right-of-use asset | 73,752 | 89,956 | 84,185 | |||||||
| Net pension benefit, settlement, and special separation benefit expense | (91,898) | (41,573) | (137,909) | |||||||
| Other non-cash activities | (183,742) | (229,134) | (34,714) | |||||||
| Change in operating assets and liabilities | (111,238) | (69,761) | (195,925) | |||||||
| Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities | $ | 202,426 | $ | 210,663 | $ | 165,164 |
Net cash provided by operating activities consists primarily of cash receipts from customers, less disbursements for costs, benefits, income taxes, interest and other expenses.
For 2021 compared to 2020, the decrease in net cash provided by operating activities is primarily due to changes in operating assets and liabilities, partially offset by higher net income, net of non-cash adjustments. Changes in operating assets and liabilities were driven by a decrease in the collection of accounts receivable and partial
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repayment of advances related to the CARES Act, partially offset by other increases in accounts payable and accrued liabilities and deferred revenue.
For 2020 compared to 2019, the increase in net cash provided by operating activities is primarily due to changes in operating assets and liabilities. Changes in operating assets and liabilities were driven by the collection of accounts receivable, the advance received by GHG under the expanded Medicare Accelerated and Advanced Payment Program as modified by the CARES Act, and the deferral of FICA payments under the CARES Act.
Investing Activities. The Company’s net cash flow (used in) provided by investing activities were as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In thousands) | 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | |||||||
| Investments in certain businesses, net of cash acquired | $ | (351,882) | $ | (20,080) | $ | (179,421) | ||||
| Purchases of property, plant and equipment | (162,537) | (69,591) | (93,504) | |||||||
| Net proceeds from sales of marketable equity securities | 17,463 | 73,771 | 11,804 | |||||||
| Investments in equity affiliates, cost method and other investments | (8,531) | (12,367) | (27,529) | |||||||
| Net proceeds from sales of businesses, property, plant and equipment and other assets | 10,295 | 225,570 | 54,495 | |||||||
| Other | 557 | 2,068 | (2,580) | |||||||
| Net Cash (Used in) Provided by Investing Activities | $ | (494,635) | $ | 199,371 | $ | (236,735) |
Acquisitions. During 2021, the Company acquired six businesses: two small businesses in its education division, two small businesses in healthcare, one new auto dealership in automotive, and all the outstanding shares of Leaf for cash and the assumption of $9.2 million in liabilities related to their pre-acquisition stock compensation plan, which will be paid in the future. Leaf is included in other businesses. During 2020, the Company acquired three businesses: two small businesses in its education division and an additional interest in Framebridge, Inc., which is included in other businesses. The Framebridge purchase price included $54.3 million in deferred payments and contingent consideration based on the acquiree achieving certain revenue milestones in the future. During 2019, the Company acquired eight businesses: one in education, three in healthcare, one in manufacturing, two in automotive, and one in other businesses for $211.8 million in cash and contingent consideration and the assumption of $25.8 million in floor plan payables.
Capital Expenditures. The 2021 capital expenditures are higher than 2020 and 2019 primarily due to land and building purchases at Kaplan International’s sixth-form college in London, U.K. and at the automotive division. The 2020 and 2019 capital expenditures include spending in connection with spectrum repacking at the Company’s television stations in Detroit, MI, Jacksonville, FL, and Roanoke, VA, as mandated by the FCC; these spectrum repacking expenditures were largely reimbursed to the Company by the FCC. The 2020 capital expenditures are lower than 2019 due to the completion of the construction of an academic and student residential facility in connection with Kaplan’s Pathways program in Liverpool, U.K. The amounts reflected in the Company’s Statements of Cash Flows are based on cash payments made during the relevant periods, whereas the Company’s capital expenditures for 2021, 2020 and 2019 disclosed in Note 19 to the Consolidated Financial Statements include assets acquired during the year. The Company estimates that its capital expenditures will be in the range of $80 million to $90 million in 2022.
Net Proceeds from Sales of Investments and Businesses. During 2021, 2020 and 2019, the Company sold marketable securities that generated proceeds of $65.5 million, $93.8 million and $19.3 million, respectively. The Company purchased $48.0 million, $20.0 million and $7.5 million of marketable equity securities during 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively. In December 2020, the Company completed the sale of Megaphone; the total net proceeds from the sale were $223.0 million. In November 2019, Kaplan UK completed the sale of a small business which was included in Kaplan International. The Company sold its interest in Gimlet Media during February 2019; the total proceeds from the sale were $33.5 million.
Financing Activities. The Company’s net cash flow provided by (used in) financing activities were as follows:
| Year Ended December 31 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (In thousands) | 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | |||||||
| Issuance (repayments) of borrowings | $ | 20,539 | $ | (81,276) | $ | 32,548 | ||||
| Net borrowing under revolving credit facilities | 134,696 | 76,241 | — | |||||||
| Net (repayments of) proceeds from vehicle floor plan payable | (10,563) | (14,160) | 14,384 | |||||||
| Common shares repurchased | (55,683) | (161,829) | (2,103) | |||||||
| Dividends paid | (30,136) | (29,970) | (29,553) | |||||||
| Other | (27,826) | 6,992 | 3,458 | |||||||
| Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities | $ | 31,027 | $ | (204,002) | $ | 18,734 |
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Borrowings and Vehicle Floor Plan Payable. In 2021, the Company borrowed against the $300 million revolving credit facility, which borrowing was used to purchase land and buildings at Kaplan International’s sixth-form college in London, U.K. and at the automotive division and, to a lesser extent, to repurchase stock and fund various acquisitions during the fourth quarter of 2021. In addition, the automotive subsidiary borrowed $47.3 million, which was used to repay the outstanding balance of the term loan due on January 31, 2029 and fund the acquisition of an automotive dealership in the fourth quarter. In 2020, the Company borrowed £60 million against the $300 million revolving credit facility and used the proceeds to repay the £60 million outstanding balance under the Kaplan Credit Agreement that matured at the end of June 2020. The Company repaid £5 million of these borrowings in the fourth quarter of 2020. In 2019, the Company had cash inflows from borrowings to fund the acquisition of two businesses at automotive and healthcare and used floor vehicle plan financing to fund the purchase of new vehicles at its automotive subsidiary.
Common Stock Repurchases. During 2021, 2020, and 2019, the Company purchased a total of 93,969, 406,112, and 3,392 shares, respectively, of its Class B common stock at a cost of approximately $55.7 million, $161.8 million, and $2.1 million, respectively. On September 10, 2020, the Board of Directors authorized the Company to acquire up to 500,000 shares of its Class B common stock. The Company did not announce a ceiling price or time limit for the purchases. At December 31, 2021, the Company had remaining authorization from the Board of Directors to purchase up to 270,182 shares of Class B common stock.
Dividends. The annual dividend rate per share was $6.04, $5.80 and $5.56 in 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The Company expects to pay a dividend of $6.32 per share in 2022.
Other. In 2021, the Company paid $30.9 million related to contingent consideration and deferred payments from prior acquisitions, mostly for the 2020 acquisition of Framebridge. In March 2021, Hoover’s minority shareholders put their remaining outstanding shares to the Company, which had a redemption value of $3.5 million. In 2020, the Company received $25.1 million in proceeds from the exercise of stock options. In March 2019, a Hoover minority shareholder put some shares to the Company, which had a redemption value of $0.6 million.
Contractual Obligations. The following reflects a summary of the Company’s contractual obligations as of December 31, 2021:
| (in thousands) | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 | Thereafter | Total | |||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Debt and interest | $ | 33,092 | $ | 241,678 | $ | 35,212 | $ | 28,626 | $ | 415,938 | $ | 36,537 | $ | 791,083 | ||||||||||||
| Operating leases | 107,541 | 79,854 | 64,030 | 50,392 | 45,897 | 296,514 | 644,228 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Programming purchase commitments (1) | 8,821 | 4,952 | 213 | 177 | — | — | 14,163 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Other purchase obligations (2) | 97,789 | 44,696 | 24,615 | 12,016 | 6,820 | 25,366 | 211,302 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Long-term liabilities (3) | 2,820 | 2,729 | 2,596 | 2,494 | 2,433 | 10,786 | 23,858 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Total | $ | 250,063 | $ | 373,909 | $ | 126,666 | $ | 93,705 | $ | 471,088 | $ | 369,203 | $ | 1,684,634 |
___________________
(1) Includes commitments for the Company’s television broadcasting business that are reflected in the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements and commitments to purchase programming to be produced in future years.
(2) Includes purchase obligations related to employment agreements, capital projects and other legally binding commitments. Other purchase orders made in the ordinary course of business are excluded from the table above. Any amounts for which the Company is liable under purchase orders are reflected in the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets as accounts payable and accrued liabilities.
(3) Primarily made up of multiemployer pension plan withdrawal obligations and postretirement benefit obligations other than pensions. The Company has other long-term liabilities excluded from the table above, including obligations for deferred compensation, long-term incentive plans and long-term deferred revenue.
In management’s opinion, the Company will have sufficient financial resources to meet its business requirements in the next 12 months, including working capital requirements, capital expenditures, interest payments, potential acquisitions and strategic investments, dividends and stock repurchases.
Other. The Company does not have any off-balance-sheet arrangements or financing activities with special-purpose entities (SPEs).
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and judgments that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements. On an ongoing basis, the Company evaluates its estimates and assumptions. The Company bases its estimates on historical experience and other assumptions believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
An accounting policy is considered to be critical if it is important to the Company’s financial condition and results and if it requires management’s most difficult, subjective and complex judgments in its application. For a summary of all of the Company’s significant accounting policies, see Note 2 to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements.
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Revenue Recognition, Trade Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Credit Losses. Education revenue is primarily derived from postsecondary education services, professional education and test preparation services. Revenue, net of any refunds, corporate discounts, scholarships and employee tuition discounts is recognized ratably over the instruction period or access period for higher education and supplemental education services.
At Kaplan International and Kaplan Supplemental Education, estimates of average student course length are developed for each course, along with estimates for the anticipated level of student drops and refunds from test performance guarantees, and these estimates are evaluated on an ongoing basis and adjusted as necessary. As Kaplan’s businesses and related course offerings have changed, including more online programs, the complexity and significance of management’s estimates have increased.
KHE provides non-academic operations support services to Purdue Global pursuant to a TOSA, which includes technology support, help-desk functions, human resources support for faculty and employees, admissions support, financial aid administration, marketing and advertising, back-office business functions, and certain student recruitment services. KHE is not entitled to receive any reimbursement of costs incurred in providing support services, or any fee, unless and until Purdue Global has first covered all of its operating costs (subject to a cap), received payment for cost efficiencies, if any, and during the first five years of the TOSA receive a priority payment of $10 million per year in addition to the operating cost reimbursements and cost efficiency payments. KHE will receive reimbursement for its operating costs of providing the support services after payment of Purdue Global’s operating costs, cost efficiency payments, and priority payment. If there are sufficient revenues, KHE may be entitled to a cost efficiency payment, if any, and additional fee equal to 12.5% of Purdue Global’s revenue. Subject to certain limitations, a portion of the fee that is earned by KHE in one year may be carried over to subsequent years for payment to Kaplan.
The support fee and reimbursement for KHE support costs are entirely dependent on the availability of cash at the end of Purdue Global’s fiscal year (June 30), and therefore, all consideration in the contract is variable. The Company uses significant judgment to forecast the operating results of Purdue Global, the availability of cash at the end of each fiscal year, and the consideration it expects to receive from Purdue Global annually. Key assumptions used in the forecast model include student census and degree enrollment data, Purdue Global and KHE expenses, changes to working capital, contractually stipulated minimum payments, and lead conversion rates. The forecast is updated as uncertainties are resolved. The Company reviews and updates the assumptions regularly, as a significant change in one or more of these estimates could affect revenue recognized. Changes to the estimated variable consideration were not material for the year ended December 31, 2021.
A Kaplan International business has a contract with an examination body through August 2032 comprised of two performance obligations, one to build and create a professional exam and another to manage the delivery of that exam to qualified candidates. The first obligation was completed in 2021. The second obligation began after the first obligation was completed and is expected to continue through the end of the contract term. Revenues are recognized for both of these obligations using forecasted financial results and the use of a market-based profit margin applied to costs incurred during the financial reporting period. This profit margin is different for each obligation as a result of the different value created by each distinct obligation. The forecast, including key assumptions such as expected candidate volumes and related exam-management expenses, is updated as future uncertainties are resolved, which may result in changes to the profit margin associated with each performance obligation. The Company reviews and updates the assumptions regularly, as a significant change in one or more of these estimates could affect revenue recognized. Changes to the estimated variable consideration were not material for the year ended December 31, 2021.
The determination of whether revenue should be reported on a gross or net basis is based on an assessment of whether the Company acts as a principal or an agent in the transaction. In certain cases, the Company is considered the agent, and the Company records revenue equal to the net amount retained when the fee is earned. In these cases, costs incurred with third-party suppliers is excluded from the Company’s revenue. The Company assesses whether it obtained control of the specified goods or services before they are transferred to the customer as part of this assessment. In addition, the Company considers other indicators such as the party primarily responsible for fulfillment, inventory risk and discretion in establishing price.
Accounts receivable have been reduced by an allowance that reflects the current expected credit losses associated with the receivables. This estimated allowance is based on historical write-offs, current macroeconomic conditions, reasonable and supportable forecasts of future economic conditions and management’s evaluation of the financial condition of the customer. The Company generally considers an account past due or delinquent when a student or customer misses a scheduled payment. The Company writes off accounts receivable balances deemed uncollectible against the allowance for credit losses following the passage of a certain period of time, or generally when the account is turned over for collection to an outside collection agency.
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Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. The Company has a significant amount of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets that are reviewed at least annually for possible impairment.
| As of December 31 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in millions) | 2021 | 2020 | ||||
| Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets | $ | 1,791.8 | $ | 1,605.2 | ||
| Total assets | 7,425.5 | 6,444.1 | ||||
| Percentage of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets to total assets | 24 | % | 25 | % |
The Company performs its annual goodwill and intangible assets impairment test as of November 30. Goodwill and other intangible assets are reviewed for possible impairment between annual tests if an event occurred or circumstances changed that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of the reporting unit or other intangible assets below its carrying value.
Goodwill
The Company tests its goodwill at the reporting unit level, which is an operating segment or one level below an operating segment. The Company initially performs an assessment of qualitative factors to determine if it is necessary to perform a quantitative goodwill impairment test. The Company quantitatively tests goodwill for impairment if, based on its assessment of the qualitative factors, it determines that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, or if it decides to bypass the qualitative assessment. The quantitative goodwill impairment test compares the estimated fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. An impairment charge is recognized for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value.
In the third quarter of 2021, as a result of the emergence of the COVID-19 Delta variant and continued weak product demand in the commercial office electrical products and hospitality sectors caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Company performed an interim review of the goodwill and indefinite-lived intangibles of the Dekko reporting unit. As a result of the impairment review, the Company recorded a $26.7 million goodwill impairment charge. The Company estimated the fair value of the reporting unit by utilizing a discounted cash flow model. The carrying value of the reporting unit exceeded the estimated fair value, resulting in a goodwill impairment charge for the amount by which the carrying value exceeded the estimated fair value after taking into account the effect of deferred income taxes. Dekko is included in manufacturing.
The Company had 20 reporting units as of December 31, 2021. The reporting units with significant goodwill balances as of December 31, 2021, were as follows, representing 89% of the total goodwill of the Company:
| (in millions) | Goodwill | |
|---|---|---|
| Education | ||
| Kaplan international | $ | 621.3 |
| Higher education | 63.2 | |
| Supplemental education | 170.6 | |
| Television broadcasting | 190.8 | |
| Leaf | 162.0 | |
| Healthcare | 118.3 | |
| Hoover | 91.3 | |
| Dekko | 47.8 | |
| Total | $ | 1,465.3 |
As of November 30, 2021, in connection with the Company’s annual impairment testing, the Company decided to perform the quantitative goodwill impairment process at all of the reporting units with the exception of Framebridge, for which it performed a qualitative assessment. The Company’s policy requires the performance of a quantitative impairment review of the goodwill at least once every three years. The Company used a discounted cash flow model, and, where appropriate, a market value approach was also utilized to supplement the discounted cash flow model to determine the estimated fair value of its reporting units. The Company made estimates and assumptions regarding future cash flows, discount rates, long-term growth rates and market values to determine each reporting unit’s estimated fair value. The methodology used to estimate the fair value of the Company’s reporting units on November 30, 2021, was consistent with the one used during the 2020 annual goodwill impairment test.
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The Company made changes to certain of its assumptions utilized in the discounted cash flow models for 2021 compared with the prior year to take into account changes in the economic environment, regulations and their impact on the Company’s businesses. The key assumptions used by the Company were as follows:
• Expected cash flows underlying the Company’s business plans for the periods 2022 through 2026 were used. The Company used expected cash flows for the periods 2022 through 2031 for the Hoover reporting unit. The expected cash flows took into account historical growth rates, the effect of the changed economic outlook at the Company’s businesses, industry challenges and an estimate for the possible impact of any applicable regulations.
• Cash flows beyond 2026 were projected to grow at a long-term growth rate, which the Company estimated between 1.5% and 3% for each reporting unit.
• The Company used a discount rate of 10% to 17% to risk adjust the cash flow projections in determining the estimated fair value.
The fair value of each of the reporting units exceeded its respective carrying value as of November 30, 2021.
The estimated fair value of the Dekko reporting unit at the manufacturing businesses exceeded its carrying value by a margin less than 25% following a goodwill impairment recorded in the third quarter of 2021. The total goodwill at this reporting unit was $47.8 million as of December 31, 2021, or 3% of the total goodwill of the Company. There exists a reasonable possibility that a decrease in the assumed projected cash flows or long-term growth rate, or an increase in the discount rate assumption used in the discounted cash flow model of this reporting unit, could result in an additional impairment charge.
The estimated fair value of the Company’s other reporting units with significant goodwill balances exceeded their respective carrying values by a margin in excess of 25%. It is possible that impairment charges could occur in the future, given changes in market conditions and the inherent variability in projecting future operating performance. Additional COVID-19 disruptions could result in future adverse changes in projections for future operating results or other key assumptions, such as projected revenue, profit margin, capital expenditures or cash flows associated with fair value estimates and could lead to additional future impairments, which could be material.
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
The Company initially assesses qualitative factors to determine if it is more likely than not that the fair value of its indefinite-lived intangible assets is less than its carrying value. The Company compares the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset with its carrying value if the qualitative factors indicate it is more likely than not that the fair value of the asset is less than its carrying value or if it decides to bypass the qualitative assessment. The Company records an impairment loss if the carrying value of the indefinite-lived intangible assets exceeds the fair value of the assets for the difference in the values. The Company uses a discounted cash flow model, and, in certain cases, a market value approach is also utilized to supplement the discounted cash flow model to determine the estimated fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible assets. The Company makes estimates and assumptions regarding future cash flows, discount rates, long-term growth rates and other market values to determine the estimated fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible assets. The Company’s policy requires the performance of a quantitative impairment review of the indefinite-lived intangible assets at least once every three years.
The Company’s intangible assets with an indefinite life are principally from trade names, franchise rights and FCC licenses. The fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible assets exceeded their respective carrying values as of November 30, 2021. There is always a possibility that impairment charges could occur in the future, given the inherent variability in projecting future operating performance. Additional COVID-19 disruptions could result in future adverse changes in projections for future operating results or other key assumptions, such as projected revenue, profit margin, capital expenditures or cash flows associated with fair value estimates and could lead to additional future impairments, which could be material.
Pension Costs. The Company sponsors a defined benefit pension plan for eligible employees in the U.S. Excluding curtailment gains, settlement gains and special termination benefits, the Company’s net pension credit was $93.0 million, $55.4 million and $52.7 million for 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The Company’s pension benefit obligation and related credits are actuarially determined and are impacted significantly by the Company’s assumptions related to future events, including the discount rate, expected return on plan assets and rate of compensation increases. The Company evaluates these critical assumptions at least annually and, periodically, evaluates other assumptions involving demographic factors, such as retirement age, mortality and turnover, and updates them to reflect its experience and expectations for the future. Actual results in any given year will often differ from actuarial assumptions because of economic and other factors.
The Company assumed a 6.25% expected return on plan assets for 2021, 2020 and 2019. The Company’s actual return on plan assets was 24.4% in 2021, 25.4% in 2020 and 23.9% in 2019. The 10-year and 20-year actual returns on plan assets on an annual basis were 13.7% and 10.0%, respectively.
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Accumulated and projected benefit obligations are measured as the present value of future cash payments. The Company discounts those cash payments using the weighted average of market-observed yields for high-quality fixed-income securities with maturities that correspond to the payment of benefits. Lower discount rates increase present values and generally increase subsequent-year pension costs; higher discount rates decrease present values and decrease subsequent-year pension costs. The Company’s discount rate at December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, was 2.9%, 2.5% and 3.3%, respectively, reflecting market interest rates.
Changes in key assumptions for the Company’s pension plan would have had the following effects on the 2021 pension credit, excluding curtailment gains, settlement gains and special termination benefits:
• Expected return on assets – A 1% increase or decrease to the Company’s assumed expected return on plan assets would have increased or decreased the pension credit by approximately $22.1 million.
• Discount rate – A 1% decrease to the Company’s assumed discount rate would have decreased the pension credit by approximately $0.6 million. A 1% increase to the Company’s assumed discount rate would have increased the pension credit by approximately $18.0 million.
The Company’s net pension credit includes an expected return on plan assets component, calculated using the expected return on plan assets assumption applied to a market-related value of plan assets. The market-related value of plan assets is determined using a five-year average market value method, which recognizes realized and unrealized appreciation and depreciation in market values over a five-year period. The value resulting from applying this method is adjusted, if necessary, such that it cannot be less than 80% or more than 120% of the market value of plan assets as of the relevant measurement date. As a result, year-to-year increases or decreases in the market-related value of plan assets impact the return on plan assets component of pension credit for the year.
At the end of each year, differences between the actual return on plan assets and the expected return on plan assets are combined with other differences in actual versus expected experience to form a net unamortized actuarial gain or loss in accumulated other comprehensive income. Only those net actuarial gains or losses in excess of the deferred realized and unrealized appreciation and depreciation are potentially subject to amortization.
The types of items that generate actuarial gains and losses that may be subject to amortization in net periodic pension (credit) cost include the following:
• Asset returns that are more or less than the expected return on plan assets for the year;
• Actual participant demographic experience different from assumed (retirements, terminations and deaths during the year);
• Actual salary increases different from assumed; and
• Any changes in assumptions that are made to better reflect anticipated experience of the plan or to reflect current market conditions on the measurement date (discount rate, longevity increases, changes in expected participant behavior and expected return on plan assets).
Amortization of the unrecognized actuarial gain or loss is included as a component of pension credit for a year if the magnitude of the net unamortized gain or loss in accumulated other comprehensive income exceeds 10% of the greater of the benefit obligation or the market-related value of assets (10% corridor). The amortization component is equal to that excess divided by the average remaining service period of active employees expected to receive benefits under the plan. At the end of 2018, the Company had no net unamortized actuarial gains in accumulated other comprehensive income subject to amortization outside the 10% corridor, and therefore, no amortized gain was included in the pension credit for 2019.
During 2019, there were significant pension asset gains offset by a decrease in the discount rate and the purchase of a group annuity contract that resulted in no net unamortized actuarial gains in accumulated other comprehensive income subject to amortization outside the 10% corridor, and therefore, no amortized gain amount was included in the pension credit for 2020.
During 2020, there were significant pension asset gains offset by a further decrease in the discount rate that resulted in net unamortized actuarial gains in accumulated other comprehensive income subject to amortization outside the 10% corridor, and therefore, an amortized gain of $7.9 million was included in the pension credit for 2021.
During 2021, there were significant pension asset gains and an increase in the discount rate. The Company currently estimates that there will be net unamortized actuarial gains in accumulated other comprehensive income subject to amortization outside the 10% corridor, and therefore, an amortized gain amount of $68.9 million is included in the estimated pension credit for 2022.
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Overall, the Company estimates that it will record a net pension credit of approximately $179 million in 2022.
Note 15 to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements provides additional details surrounding pension costs and related assumptions.
Accounting for Income Taxes.
Valuation Allowances
Deferred income taxes arise from temporary differences between the tax and financial statement recognition of assets and liabilities. In evaluating its ability to recover deferred tax assets within the jurisdiction from which they arise, the Company considers all available positive and negative evidence, including scheduled reversals of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, tax planning strategies and recent financial operations. These assumptions require significant judgment about forecasts of future taxable income.
As of December 31, 2021, the Company had state income tax net operating loss carryforwards of $1,026.1 million, which will expire at various future dates. Also at December 31, 2021, the Company had $87.1 million of non-U.S. income tax loss carryforwards, of which $44.2 million may be carried forward indefinitely; $12.2 million of losses that, if unutilized, will expire in varying amounts through 2026; and $30.7 million of losses that, if unutilized, will start to expire after 2026. At December 31, 2021, the Company has established approximately $57.6 million in total valuation allowances, primarily against deferred state tax assets, net of U.S. Federal income taxes, and non-U.S. deferred tax assets, as the Company believes that it is more likely than not that the benefit from certain state and non-U.S. net operating loss carryforwards and other deferred tax assets will not be realized. The Company has established valuation allowances against state income tax benefits recognized, without considering potentially offsetting deferred tax liabilities established with respect to prepaid pension cost and goodwill. Prepaid pension cost and goodwill have not been considered a source of future taxable income for realizing deferred tax benefits recognized since these temporary differences are not likely to reverse in the foreseeable future. However, certain deferred state tax assets have an indefinite life. As a result, the Company has considered deferred tax liabilities for prepaid pension cost and goodwill as a source of future taxable income for realizing those deferred state tax assets. The valuation allowances established against state and non-U.S. income tax benefits recorded may increase or decrease within the next 12 months, based on operating results, the market value of investment holdings or business and tax planning strategies; as a result, the Company is unable to estimate the potential tax impact, given the uncertain operating and market environment. The Company will be monitoring future operating results and projected future operating results on a quarterly basis to determine whether the valuation allowances provided against state and non-U.S. deferred tax assets should be increased or decreased, as future circumstances warrant.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements. See Note 2 to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of recent accounting pronouncements.
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