UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
x
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017
o
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from __________ to __________
Commission File Number: 0-24796
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
BERMUDA
State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization
O'Hara House, 3 Bermudiana Road, Hamilton, Bermuda
(Address of principal executive offices)
98-0438382
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
HM 08
(Zip Code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (441) 296-1431
Title of each class
Name of each exchange on which registered
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
CLASS A COMMON STOCK, $0.08 PAR VALUE
NASDAQ Global Select Market, Prague Stock Exchange
UNIT WARRANTS TO PURCHASE SHARES OF CLASS A COMMON STOCK
None.
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes ☐ No ☒
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes ☐ No ☒
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
Indicate by check mark whether registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for
each shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant
to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§229.405) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of the registrants
knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. ☒
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See definition of “accelerated filer”, “large
accelerated filer” or “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer ☐
Accelerated filer ☒
Non-accelerated filer ☐
Smaller reporting company ☐
Emerging growth company ☐
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting
standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined by Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act) Yes £ No T
The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of June 30, 2017 (based on the closing price of US$ 4.00 of the registrant's Class A Common Stock, as
reported by the NASDAQ Global Select Market on June 30, 2017 ) was US$ 250.0 million .
Number of shares of Class A Common Stock outstanding as of February 5, 2018 : 145,498,488
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Document
Location in 10-K in Which Document is Incorporated
Registrant's Proxy Statement for the 2018 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders
Part III
Index
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART I
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
FORM 10-K
For the year ended December 31, 2017
Item 1
Item 1A
Item 1B
Item 2
Item 3
Item 4
Item 5
Item 6
Item 7
PART II
Business
Risk Factors
Unresolved Staff Comments
Properties
Legal Proceedings
Mine Safety Disclosures
Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
Selected Financial Data
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Item 7A
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
Controls and Procedures
Other Information
Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
Executive Compensation
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
Principal Accountant Fees and Services
Item 8
Item 9
Item 9A
Item 9B
PART III
Item 10
Item 11
Item 12
Item 13
Item 14
PART IV
Item 15
Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedule s
SIGNATURES
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I. Forward-looking Statements
This report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 22E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act"),
including those relating to our capital needs, business strategy, expectations and intentions. Statements that use the terms “believe”, “anticipate”, “trend”, “expect”, “plan”, “estimate”,
“forecast”, “should”, “intend” and similar expressions of a future or forward-looking nature identify forward-looking statements for purposes of the U.S. federal securities laws or otherwise.
In particular, information appearing under the sections entitled "Business," "Risk Factors" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations"
includes forward looking-statements. For these statements and all other forward-looking statements, we claim the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the
Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.
Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which cannot be predicted with accuracy or are otherwise beyond our control and some of which might
not even be anticipated. Forward-looking statements reflect our current views with respect to future events and because our business is subject to such risks and uncertainties, actual results,
our strategic plan, our financial position, results of operations and cash flows could differ materially from those described in or contemplated by the forward-looking statements contained in
this report.
Important factors that contribute to such risks include, but are not limited to, those factors set forth under "Risk Factors” as well as the following: the effect of changes in global and regional
economic conditions and the extent, timing and duration of the recovery in our markets; levels of television advertising spending and the rate of development of the advertising markets in the
countries in which we operate; the extent to which our debt service obligations and covenants may restrict our business; our exposure to additional tax liabilities as well as liabilities resulting
from regulatory or legal proceedings initiated against us; our ability to refinance our existing indebtedness; our success in continuing our initiatives to diversify and enhance our revenue
streams; our ability to make cost-effective investments in our television businesses, including investments in programming; our ability to develop and acquire necessary programming and
attract audiences; our ability to consummate the Divestment Transaction; and changes in the political and regulatory environments where we operate and in the application of relevant laws
and regulations. The foregoing review of important factors should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with other cautionary statements that are included in this
report. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this report. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or review any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of
new information, future developments or otherwise, except as required by law.
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Defined Terms
Unless the context otherwise requires, references in this report to the “Company”, “CME”, “we”, “us” or “our” refer to Central European Media Enterprises Ltd. (“CME Ltd.”) or CME Ltd. and
its consolidated subsidiaries listed in Exhibit 21.01 hereto. Unless otherwise noted, all statistical and financial information presented in this report has been converted into U.S. dollars using
period-end exchange rates or average rates where applicable. All references in this report to “US$” or “dollars” are to U.S. dollars, all references to “BGN” are to Bulgarian leva, all references
to “CZK” are to Czech koruna, all references to “RON” are to the New Romanian lei and all references to “Euro” or “EUR” are to the European Union Euro. The exchange rates as at
December 31, 2017 used in this report are US$/BGN 1.63 ; US$/CZK 21.29 ; US$/RON 3.89 ; and US$/EUR 0.83 .
The following defined terms are used in this Annual Report on Form 10-K:
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" 2015 Convertible Notes " refers to our 5.0% senior convertible notes due November 2015, redeemed in November 2015;
" 2017 PIK Notes " refers to our 15.0% senior secured notes due 2017, redeemed in April 2016;
" 2017 Term Loan " refers to our 15.0% term loan facility due 2017, repaid in April 2016;
" 2018 Euro Term Loan " refers to our floating rate senior unsecured term credit facility guaranteed by Time Warner, dated as of November 14, 2014 and amended on March 9, 2015,
February 19, 2016, June 22, 2017 and February 5, 2018 which matures on May 1, 2019 (see Part II, Item 8, Note 24, "Subsequent Events" for further information);
" 2019 Euro Term Loan " refers to our floating rate senior unsecured term credit facility due 2019 guaranteed by Time Warner, dated as of September 30, 2015 and amended on
February 19, 2016 and June 22, 2017;
" 2021 Euro Term Loan " refers to our floating rate senior unsecured term credit facility due 2021 entered into by CME BV (as defined below), guaranteed by Time Warner and CME
Ltd., dated as of February 19, 2016 and amended on June 22, 2017;
" Euro Term Loans " refers collectively to the 2018 Euro Term Loan, 2019 Euro Term Loan and 2021 Euro Term Loan;
" 2021 Revolving Credit Facility " refers to our amended and restated revolving credit facility dated as of February 28, 2014, as amended and restated as of November 14, 2014,
further amended and restated on February 19, 2016 and amended on June 22, 2017;
" Divestment Transaction " refers to the framework agreement dated July 9, 2017 with Slovenia Broadband S.à r.l. for the sale of our Croatia and Slovenia operations (see Part II,
Item 8, Note 3, "Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale" for further information)
" Guarantee Fees " refers to amounts accrued and payable to Time Warner as consideration for Time Warner's guarantees of the Euro Term Loans;
" Reimbursement Agreement " refers to an agreement with Time Warner which provides that we will reimburse Time Warner for any amounts paid by them under any guarantee or
through any loan purchase right exercised by Time Warner, dated as of November 14, 2014, amended and restated on February 19, 2016 and amended on March 2, 2017 and June 22,
2017;
" CME BV " refers to CME Media Enterprises B.V., our 100% owned subsidiary;
" CME NV " refers to Central European Media Enterprises N.V., our 100% owned subsidiary;
" Time Warner " refers to Time Warner Inc.; and
" TW Investor " refers to Time Warner Media Holdings B.V.
PART I
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
Central European Media Enterprises Ltd., a Bermuda company limited by shares, is a media and entertainment company operating in Central and Eastern Europe. Our assets are held through a
series of Dutch and Curaçao holding companies. We manage our business on a geographical basis, with four operating segments, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Romania and the Slovak
Republic, which are also our reportable segments and our main operating countries. We own 94% of our Bulgaria operations and 100% of our companies in our remaining countries.
On July 9, 2017, we entered into a framework agreement with Slovenia Broadband S.à r.l., a wholly owned subsidiary of United Group B.V., relating to the sale of our Croatia and Slovenia
operations. Accordingly, these operations are classified as held for sale and they are presented as discontinued operations for all periods in this report; and the discussion below relates to our
continuing operations in the four remaining operating segments. See Part II, Item 8, Note 3, "Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale" for further information.
Our main operating countries are members of the European Union (the “EU”). However, as emerging economies, they have adopted Western-style democratic forms of government and have
economic structures, political and legal systems, systems of corporate governance and business practices that continue to evolve. As the economies of our operating countries converge with
more developed nations and their economic and commercial infrastructures continue to develop, we believe the business risks of operating in these countries will continue to decline.
We operate market leading television networks in each of these four countries, broadcasting a total of 26 television channels to more than 40 million people living in the region. Each segment
also develops and produces content for their television channels. We generate advertising revenues in our country operations primarily through entering into agreements with advertisers,
advertising agencies and sponsors to place advertising on the television channels that we operate. We generate additional revenues by collecting fees from cable, direct-to-home (“DTH”) and
internet protocol television ("IPTV") operators for carriage of our channels.
Our strategy is to maintain or increase our audience leadership in each of our countries and to pursue sales strategies designed to maximize our revenues in order to provide additional financial
resources to invest in local content. We have built our audience leadership in each of our markets by operating a multi-channel business model with a diversified portfolio of television channels
which appeal to a broad audience.
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Index
Content that consistently generates high audience shares is crucial to maintaining the success of each of our country operations. While content acquired from the Hollywood studios remains
popular, our audiences increasingly demand content that is produced in their local language and reflects their society, attitudes and culture. We believe developing and producing local content is
key to being successful in prime time and supporting market-leading channels and that maintaining a regular stream of popular local content at the lowest possible cost is operationally important
over the long term.
As the distribution platforms in our region develop and become more diversified, our television channels and content will increasingly reach viewers through new distribution offerings, such as
internet TV and smart devices. We offer viewers the choice of watching premium television content through a series of portals, including through Voyo, our subscription video-on-demand
service, and advertising supported catch-up services on our websites.
Sales
We generate advertising revenues primarily through entering into agreements with advertisers, advertising agencies and sponsors to place advertising on our television channels.
Our main unit of inventory is the commercial gross rating point (“GRP”), a measure of the number of people watching television when an advertisement is aired. We generally contract with a
client to provide an agreed number of GRPs for an agreed price (“cost per point” or “CPP”). Much less frequently, and usually only for small niche channels, we may sell on a fixed spot basis
where an advertisement is placed at an agreed time for a negotiated price that is independent of the number of viewers. The CPP varies depending on the season and time of day the
advertisement is aired, the volume of GRPs purchased, requests for special positioning of the advertisement, the demographic group that the advertisement is targeting and other factors. Our
larger advertising customers generally commit to specified amounts of advertising on an annual basis, which sets the pricing for a minimum volume of GRPs.
We operate our television networks based on a business model of audience leadership, brand strength and popular local content. Our sales strategy is to maximize the monetization of our
advertising time by leveraging our high brand power and applying an optimal mix of pricing and sell-out rate. The effectiveness of our sales strategy is measured by our share of the television
advertising market, which represents the proportion of our television advertising revenues compared to the total television advertising market. We also generate additional revenues by collecting
carriage fees from cable, satellite and IPTV operators for broadcasting our channels.
Programming
Our programming strategy in each country is tailored to match the expectations of key audience demographics by scheduling and marketing an optimal mix of programs in a cost effective
manner. The programming that we provide drives our audience shares and ratings (see "Audience Share and Ratings" below) and consists of locally-produced news, current affairs, fiction, and
reality and entertainment shows as well as acquired foreign movies, series and sports programming.
We focus our programming investments on securing leading audience share positions during prime time, where the majority of advertising revenues are delivered, and improving our cost
efficiency through optimizing the programming mix and limiting the cost of programming scheduled off-prime time while maintaining all day audience shares.
Audience Share and Ratings
Audience share represents the viewers watching a channel in proportion to the total audience watching television at the time. Ratings represent the number of people watching a channel in
proportion to the total population. Audience share and ratings information are measured in each market by independent agencies using peoplemeters, which measure audiences for different
demographics and subgeographies of the population throughout the day. Our channels schedule programming intended to attract audiences within specific target demographics that we believe
will be attractive to advertisers. The tables below provide a comparison of all day and prime time audience shares for 2017 in the target demographic of each of our leading channels to the
primary channels of our main competitors.
Bulgaria
We operate one general entertainment channel, BTV, and five other channels, BTV CINEMA, BTV COMEDY, BTV ACTION, BTV LADY and RING.
Target Demographic
Channel
Ownership
All day audience share
Prime time audience share
BTV
NOVA TV
BNT 1
CME
MTG
Public television
2017
31.8%
16.7%
6.0%
2016
30.5%
19.2%
7.0%
2017
34.8%
18.5%
7.4%
2016
33.6%
21.1%
8.9%
18-49
Source: GARB
The combined all day and prime time audience shares of our Bulgaria operations in 2017 were 41.9% and 45.3% , respectively.
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Index
Czech Republic
We operate one general entertainment channel, TV NOVA, and seven other channels, NOVA 2, NOVA CINEMA, NOVA SPORT 1, NOVA SPORT 2, NOVA ACTION, NOVA GOLD and
NOVA INTERNATIONAL, a general entertainment channel broadcasting in the Slovak Republic.
Target Demographic
Channel
Ownership
All day audience share
Prime time audience share
15-54
TV NOVA
Prima
CT 1
CME
MTG / GME
Public television
2017
23.7%
10.7%
12.2%
2016
23.7%
10.8%
12.3%
2017
27.9%
13.5%
14.1%
2016
28.2%
13.2%
14.7%
Source: ATO - Nielsen Admosphere; Mediaresearch
The combined all day and prime time audience shares of our Czech Republic operations in 2017 , excluding NOVA SPORT 1, NOVA SPORT 2 and NOVA INTERNATIONAL, were 36.9%
and 39.3% , respectively.
Romania
We operate one general entertainment channel, PRO TV, and seven other channels, PRO 2 (formerly ACASA), PRO X (formerly SPORT.RO), PRO GOLD (formerly ACASA GOLD), PRO
CINEMA, PRO TV INTERNATIONAL, MTV ROMANIA, as well as PRO TV CHISINAU, a general entertainment channel broadcasting in Moldova.
Target Demographic
Channel
Ownership
All day audience share
Prime time audience share
18-49 Urban
PRO TV
Antena 1
TVR 1
CME
Intact group
Public television
2017
23.3%
14.9%
1.4%
2016
20.6%
15.7%
1.3%
2017
27.0%
15.9%
1.5%
2016
25.0%
15.9%
1.5%
Source: Kantar Media
The combined all day and prime time audience shares of our Romania operations in 2017 , excluding PRO TV INTERNATIONAL, PRO TV CHISINAU and ACASA IN MOLDOVA (which
ceased broadcasting in October 2017) were 27.4% and 30.3% , respectively.
Slovak Republic
We operate one general entertainment channel, TV MARKIZA, and three other channels, DOMA, DAJTO and MARKIZA INTERNATIONAL, a general entertainment channel broadcasting in
the Czech Republic.
Target Demographic
Channel
Ownership
All day audience share
Prime time audience share
12-54
TV MARKIZA
CME
TV JOJ
Jednotka
J&T Media Enterprises
Public Television
2017
19.5%
16.5%
8.6%
2016
22.2%
15.4%
8.0%
2017
20.3%
20.2%
10.8%
2016
23.3%
18.8%
9.7%
Source: PMT/ TNS SK
The combined all day and prime time audience shares of our Slovak Republic operations in 2017 , excluding MARKIZA INTERNATIONAL, were 27.0% and 28.3% , respectively.
Seasonality
We experience seasonality, with advertising sales tending to be highest during the fourth quarter of each calendar year due to the holiday season, and lowest during the third quarter of each
calendar year due to the summer vacation period (typically July and August). Our non-advertising sales are not affected by seasonality.
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Regulation of Television Broadcasting
Television broadcasting in each of the countries in which we operate is regulated by a governmental authority or agency. In this report, we refer to such agencies individually as a “Media
Council” and collectively as “Media Councils”. Media Councils generally supervise broadcasters and their compliance with national broadcasting legislation, as well as control access to the
available frequencies through licensing regimes.
Programming and Advertising Regulation
Our main operating countries are member states of the EU, and as such, our broadcast operations in such countries are subject to relevant EU legislation relating to media.
The EU Audiovisual Media Services Directive (the “AVMS Directive”) came into force in March 2010 and provides the legal framework for audiovisual media services generally in the EU.
The AVMS Directive covers both linear (i.e., broadcasting) and non-linear (e.g., video-on-demand and catch-up) transmissions of audiovisual media services, with the latter subject to
significantly less stringent regulation. Among other things, the AVMS Directive requires broadcasters to comply with rules related to, but not limited to, program content, advertising content
and quotas, product placement, sponsorship, teleshopping, accessibility by persons with a visual or hearing disability, and minimum quotas with respect to “European works” (defined as
originating from an EU member state or a signatory to the Council of Europe's Convention on Transfrontier Television as well as being written and produced mainly by residents of the EU or
Council of Europe member states or pursuant to co-production agreements between such states and other countries). In addition, the AVMS Directive requires that at least 10% of either
broadcast time or programming budget is dedicated to programs made by European producers who are independent of broadcasters. News, sports, games, advertising, teletext services and
teleshopping are excluded from the calculation of these quotas. In respect of advertising, the AVMS Directive provides that the proportion of television advertising spots and teleshopping spots
within a given hour shall not exceed 20% (what is commonly referred to as the ‘12 minute per hour rule’). The AVMS Directive does not otherwise restrict when programming may be
interrupted by advertising in linear broadcasting, except in the case of films and news programming (where programming may be interrupted once every thirty minutes or more) and children’s
programming (where the same restriction applies providing that the program is greater than thirty minutes) and religious programming (where no advertising or teleshopping shall be inserted).
Under the AVMS Directive, product placement is prohibited subject to certain exceptions (for example it is permitted in films and series, sports programs and light entertainment programs) and
providing that the use of product placement is not ‘unduly’ prominent, is not promotional and is appropriately identified to viewers. Legislation implementing the AVMS Directive has been
adopted across our operating countries.
On May 25, 2016, the European Commission adopted a proposal to amend the AVMS Directive. As proposed, the legislation liberalizes many of the AVMS Directive requirements, including,
for example, in respect of hourly advertising limits, product placement, teleshopping and sponsorship. The proposal is subject to consultation, review by the European Commission committees
and a vote by the European Parliament in order to be adopted. Following adoption, any amendments to the AVMS Directive would then need to be implemented by our operating countries.
Please see below for more detailed information on programming and advertising regulations that impact our channels.
Bulgaria : In Bulgaria, privately owned broadcasters are permitted to broadcast advertising for up to 12 minutes per hour. The public broadcaster, BNT, which is financed through a compulsory
television license fee and by the government, is restricted to broadcasting advertising for four minutes per hour and no more than 15 minutes per day, of which only five minutes may be in
prime time. There are also restrictions on the frequency of advertising breaks (for example, news and children's programs shorter than 30 minutes cannot be interrupted). These restrictions apply
to both publicly and privately owned broadcasters. Further restrictions relate to advertising content, including a ban on tobacco advertising and restrictions on alcohol advertising, regulations on
medical products advertising and regulations on advertising targeted at children or during children's programming. In addition, members of the news department of our channels are prohibited
from appearing in advertisements. Our channels in Bulgaria are required to comply with several restrictions on programming, including regulations on the origin of programming. These
channels must ensure that 50% of a channel's total annual broadcast time consists of EU- or locally-produced programming and 12% of such broadcast time consists of programming produced
by independent producers in the EU. News, sports, games and teleshopping programs, as well as advertising and teletext services, are excluded from these restrictions.
Czech Republic : Privately owned broadcasters in the Czech Republic are permitted to broadcast advertising for up to 12 minutes per hour. In September 2011, legislation was implemented in
the Czech Republic which restricts the amount of advertising that may be shown on channels of the public broadcaster, CT. Pursuant to the regulation, no advertising may be shown on the
public channels CT 1 and CT 24, while the channels CT 2 and CT 4 may show a limited amount of advertising. Also included in the legislation is the requirement that national private
broadcasters must contribute annually to a Czech cinematography fund in an amount equal to 2% of their net advertising revenues. We are entitled to apply for financing from the fund. In the
Czech Republic, all broadcasters are restricted with respect to the frequency of advertising breaks during and between programs, as well as being subject to restrictions that relate to advertising
content, including a ban on tobacco advertising and limitations on advertisements of alcoholic beverages, pharmaceuticals, firearms and munitions.
Romania : Privately owned broadcasters in Romania are permitted to broadcast advertising and direct sales advertising for up to 12 minutes per hour. There are also restrictions on the frequency
of advertising breaks (for example, news and children's programs shorter than 30 minutes cannot be interrupted). Broadcasters are also required that from the total broadcasting time (except for
the time allocated to news, sports events, games, advertising and teleshopping) (a) at least 50% must be European-origin audio-visual works and (b) at least 10% (or, alternatively, at least 10%
of their programming budget) must be European audio-visual works produced by independent producers. The public broadcaster, TVR, is restricted to broadcasting advertising for eight minutes
per hour and only between programs. Further restrictions relate to advertising content, including a ban on tobacco advertising and restrictions on alcohol advertising, and regulations on
advertising targeted at children or during children's programming. In addition, news anchors of all channels are prohibited from appearing in advertisements and teleshopping programming. A
new Audiovisual Code was enacted in March 2017 providing additional safeguards in connection with the protection of minors and privacy rights.
Slovak Republic : Privately owned broadcasters in the Slovak Republic are permitted to broadcast advertising for up to 12 minutes per hour but not for more than 20% of their total daily
broadcast time. Since January 2013, the public broadcaster RTVS, which is financed through a compulsory license fee, can broadcast advertising for up to 0.5% of its total broadcast time (up to
2.5% of total broadcast time including teleshopping programming), but between 7:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. may broadcast only eight minutes of advertising per hour. There are restrictions on the
frequency of advertising breaks during and between programs. RTVS is not permitted to broadcast advertising breaks during programs. There are also restrictions that relate to advertising
content, including a ban on tobacco, pharmaceuticals, firearms and munitions advertising and a ban on advertisements of alcoholic beverages (excluding beer and wine) between 6:00 a.m. and
10:00 p.m. Our operations in the Slovak Republic are also required to comply with several restrictions on programming, including regulations on the origin of programming. These include the
requirement that 50% of the station's monthly broadcast time must be European-origin audio-visual works and at least 10% of a station's monthly broadcast time must be European audio-visual
works produced by independent producers, at least 10% of which must be broadcast within five years of production.
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Licensing Regulation
The license granting and renewal process in our operating countries varies by jurisdiction and by type of broadcast permitted by the license (i.e., terrestrial, cable, satellite). Depending on the
country, terrestrial licenses may be valid for an unlimited time period, may be renewed automatically upon application or may require a more lengthy renewal procedure, such as a tender
process. Generally cable and satellite licenses are granted or renewed upon application. We expect all of our licenses will continue to be renewed or new licenses to be granted as required to
continue to operate our business. All of the countries in which we operate have transitioned from analog to digital terrestrial broadcasting and we have obtained digital licenses where requested.
In January 2017, we ceased terrestrial distribution of our channels in the Slovak Republic, and channels are now available exclusively on cable, satellite and IPTV platforms. We will apply for
additional digital licenses where such applications are prudent and permissible. Please see below for more detailed information on licenses for our channels.
Bulgaria : BTV operates pursuant to a national digital terrestrial license issued by the Council for Electronic Media, the Bulgarian Media Council, that expires in July 2024. BTV ACTION
broadcasts pursuant to a national cable and satellite registration that is valid for an indefinite time period and also has a digital terrestrial license that expires in January 2025 which is not
currently in use. BTV CINEMA, BTV COMEDY, RING and BTV LADY, as well as BTV, each broadcast pursuant to a national cable and satellite registration that is valid for an indefinite
time period.
Czech Republic : Our channels in the Czech Republic operate under a variety of licenses granted by the Czech Republic Media Council, The Council for Radio and Television Broadcasting. TV
NOVA broadcasts under a national terrestrial license that expires in January 2025. TV NOVA may also broadcast pursuant to a satellite license that expires in December 2020. NOVA CINEMA
broadcasts pursuant to a national terrestrial digital license that expires in 2023. NOVA CINEMA also broadcasts via satellite pursuant to a license that is valid until November 2019. NOVA
SPORT 1 broadcasts pursuant to a license that allows for both satellite and cable transmission that expires in October 2020. NOVA SPORT 2 broadcasts pursuant to a satellite license that
expires in August 2027. In addition, NOVA SPORT 1 and NOVA SPORT 2 each have a license that permits internet transmission which expires in August 2027. NOVA ACTION broadcasts
pursuant to a satellite license that expires in July 2024 and a national terrestrial license that expires in September 2023. NOVA 2 broadcasts pursuant to a national terrestrial license that expires
in December 2024 and a satellite license that expires in February 2025. NOVA GOLD broadcasts pursuant to a national terrestrial license and a satellite license that each expire in February
2025. NOVA INTERNATIONAL broadcasts pursuant to a license that permits internet transmission which expires in January 2028.
Romania : PRO TV broadcasts pursuant to a national satellite license granted by the Romanian Media Council, the National Audio-Visual Council, that expires in May 2023. PRO 2 broadcasts
pursuant to a national satellite license that expires in January 2025. PRO GOLD broadcasts pursuant to a national satellite license that expires in April 2021. PRO CINEMA broadcasts pursuant
to a national satellite license that expires in April 2022. PRO X broadcasts pursuant to a national satellite license that expires in July 2021. MTV ROMANIA broadcasts pursuant to a national
satellite license that expires in April 2018 and PRO TV INTERNATIONAL broadcasts pursuant to a national satellite license that expires in May 2018. PRO TV also broadcasts through the
electronic communications networks pursuant to a series of local licenses and PRO 2 broadcasts in high-definition pursuant to a written consent from the Media Council. PRO TV CHISINAU
broadcasts pursuant to a cable license granted by the Audio-Visual Coordinating Council of the Republic of Moldova (the "AVCC") that expires in November 2023. In September 2017 we
applied to the AVCC to discontinue the ACASA IN MOLDOVA channel from October 2017.
Slovak Republic : TV MARKIZA, DOMA and DAJTO each broadcast pursuant to a national license for digital broadcasting granted by the Council for Broadcasting and Retransmission, the
Media Council of the Slovak Republic, which is valid for an indefinite period. MARKIZA INTERNATIONAL is broadcast pursuant to the license granted to TV MARKIZA.
OTHER INFORMATION
Employees
As of December 31, 2017 , we had a total of approximately 2,200 employees (including contractors).
Corporate Information
CME Ltd. was incorporated in 1994 under the laws of Bermuda. Our registered offices are located at O'Hara House, 3 Bermudiana Road, Hamilton HM 08, Bermuda, and our telephone number
is +1-441-296-1431. Communications can also be sent c/o CME Media Services Ltd. at Krizeneckeho nam. 1078/5, 152 00 Praha 5, Czech Republic, telephone number +420-242-465-605.
CME's Class A common stock is listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market and the Prague Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol “CETV”.
Available Information
Our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Sections 13(a) or 15(d) of
the Exchange Act are available on our website, free of charge, as soon as reasonably practicable after the reports are electronically filed with or furnished to the SEC. These reports together with
press releases, public conference calls, webcasts and posts to the "Investors" section of our website are available at www.cme.net and we encourage investors to use our website. The information
contained on our website is not included as a part of, or incorporated by reference into, this Report.
Financial Information by Operating Segment and by Geographical Area
For financial information by operating segment and geographic area, see Part II, Item 8, Note 20, "Segment Data" .
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ITEM 1A RISK FACTORS
This report and the following discussion of risk factors contain forward-looking statements as discussed on page 1 of this report. Our actual results may differ materially from those anticipated
in these forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors, including the risks and uncertainties described below and elsewhere in this report. These risks and uncertainties are not the only
ones we may face. Additional risks and uncertainties of which we are not aware, or that we currently deem immaterial, may also become important factors that affect our financial condition,
results of operations and cash flows.
Risks Relating to Our Financial Position
Changes in global or regional economic conditions may adversely affect our financial position and results of operations.
The results of our operations depend heavily on advertising revenue, and demand for advertising is affected by general economic conditions in the region and globally. Our markets have
experienced overall growth in real GDP (as adjusted for inflation) and advertising spending since 2014; however, we cannot predict if the current growth trends will continue in the future.
Recessions or periods of low or negative growth in the region or globally in the future may cause a deterioration of general economic conditions in one or more of our markets, which would
have an adverse economic impact on our advertising revenues. Other factors that may affect general economic conditions in our markets include defaults by sovereigns or systemically important
companies, austerity programs, natural disasters, acts of terrorism, civil or military conflicts or general political instability and responses to it, any of which may also reduce advertising
spending. In addition, although we believe the advertising spend per capita of the countries in which we operate and advertising intensity (the ratio of total advertising spend per capita to
nominal GDP per capita) will converge with developed markets in Europe, such convergence may not occur in the time frame we expect, or at all. Any of these developments would have a
significant negative effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
Changes to the quantitative easing program implemented by European Central Bank ("ECB") and the impact on the region of the United Kingdom’s exit from the European Union
(“EU”) may adversely affect our financial position and results of operations.
The ECB embarked upon quantitative easing in 2015 to address economic softness and a slowdown in growth of consumer prices in the Eurozone. The ECB also created funding and stability
mechanisms to provide liquidity and financial assistance to Eurozone member states and financial institutions. Economic growth in recent years in the Eurozone, including strong growth in
2017, has been helped by the ECB’s quantitative easing program. Citing improved economic conditions, the ECB has announced that from January 2018 it will be reducing its quantitative
easing program from a rate of EUR 60 billion a month to EUR 30 billion a month for an initial nine-month period. The ECB may decide to take further steps to reduce or exit quantitative easing
in the future. The tapering of quantitative easing may adversely impact future growth in Eurozone countries, including the countries we operate in which would negatively impact our business.
On March 29, 2017, the United Kingdom formally initiated the process to leave the EU, commonly referred to as "Brexit", triggering a two-year period to finalize the terms for its leaving the
EU. It is expected that economic conditions in the EU will be impacted by Brexit. While the overall economic impact of Brexit on the EU and the Euro is difficult to estimate at present,
decisions to conserve cash and reduce spending by consumers and businesses in the United Kingdom would have a negative impact on economic growth rates in the United Kingdom and, to a
lesser extent, in the EU, in particular those countries that are significant exporters to the United Kingdom. There is also significant uncertainty regarding the terms on which the United Kingdom
will leave the EU, and it is expected that a more protracted process to set those terms would have a more prolonged economic impact. In addition, if other countries seek to leave the EU, that
would increase uncertainty in the region, which may have a further negative impact on investment and economic growth rates. Furthermore, the departure of the United Kingdom from the EU
may affect the budgetary contributions and allocations among the EU member states in the medium term, including the countries in which we operate, which are net recipients of EU funding.
Economic uncertainty caused by Brexit or other instability in the EU resulting from Brexit could cause significant volatility in EU markets and reduce economic growth rates in the countries in
which we operate, which would negatively impact our business.
Our operating results will be adversely affected if we cannot generate strong advertising sales.
We generate the majority of our revenues from the sale of advertising airtime on our television channels. While we have implemented pricing strategies to increase sales and television
advertising spending, the success of these strategies has varied from market to market and continues to be challenged by pressure from advertisers and discounting by competitors. In addition to
advertising pricing, other factors that may affect our advertising sales include general economic conditions (described above), competition from other broadcasters and operators of other
distribution platforms, changes in programming strategy, changes in distribution strategy, our ability to secure distribution on cable, satellite or IPTV operators, our channels’ technical reach,
technological developments relating to media and broadcasting, seasonal trends in the advertising market, changing audience preferences and in how and when people view content and the
accompanying advertising, increased competition for the leisure time of audiences and shifts in population and other demographics. Our advertising revenues also depend on our ability to
maintain audience ratings and to generate GRPs. This requires us to have a distribution strategy that reaches a significant audience as well as to maintain investments in programming at a
sufficient level to continue to attract audiences. Changes in the distribution of our channels, such as our decision to cease broadcasting on DTT in the Slovak Republic may reduce the number of
people who can view our channels, which may negatively impact our audience share and GRPs generated. Furthermore, significant or sustained reductions in investments in programming or
other operating costs in response to reduced advertising revenues had and, if repeated, may have an adverse impact on our television viewing levels. Reductions in advertising spending in our
markets and resistance to price increases as well as competition for ratings from broadcasters seeking to attract similar audiences may have an adverse impact on our ability to maintain our
advertising sales. A failure to maintain and increase advertising sales could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
Our debt service obligations and covenants may restrict our ability to conduct our operations.
We have significant debt service obligations under the Euro Term Loans as well as the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility (when drawn), including the Guarantee Fees to Time Warner as
consideration for its guarantees of the Euro Term Loans (collectively, the "TW Guarantees"). Although a portion of the Guarantee Fees in respect of each of the Euro Term Loans can be non-
cash pay at our option, accruing such fees will further increase the amounts to be repaid at the maturity of these facilities. In addition, if the Divestment Transaction does not close, the warrants
are not exercised in full or cash flows from operations do not meet our forecasts, we would not be able to reduce our indebtedness as planned and would continue to bear higher average
borrowing costs on our senior debt and pay more interest and Guarantee Fees. As a result of our debt service obligations and covenants contained in the related loan agreements, we are restricted
under the Reimbursement Agreement and the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility (when drawn) in the manner in which our business is conducted, including but not limited to our ability to obtain
additional debt financing to refinance existing indebtedness or to fund future working capital, capital expenditures, business opportunities or other corporate requirements. We may have a
proportionally higher level of debt and debt service obligations than our competitors, which may put us at a competitive disadvantage by limiting our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to,
changes in our business, economic conditions or our industry. For additional information regarding the Reimbursement Agreement, the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility and the TW Guarantees,
see Part II, Item 8, Note 5, "Long-term Debt and Other Financing Arrangements" .
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We may be unable to refinance our existing indebtedness and may not be able to obtain favorable refinancing terms.
We have a substantial amount of indebtedness. Under the Reimbursement Agreement and the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility (when drawn), we can incur only limited amounts of additional
indebtedness, other than indebtedness incurred to refinance existing indebtedness. In addition, pursuant to the Reimbursement Agreement, the all-in rates on each of the Euro Term Loans
increase to a maximum of 10.0% (or 3.5% above the then-current all-in rate, if lower), on the date that is 180 days following a change of control of CME Ltd. (as defined therein); and pursuant
to the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility, all commitments terminate following a change of control (as defined therein) and the interest rate on amounts outstanding increases to 13% on the date
that is 180 days following such change of control. We intend to repay the 2018 Euro Term Loan at or prior to maturity on May 1, 2019 with cash flows from operations and the expected
proceeds from the Divestment Transaction or if the Divestment Transaction does not close, the expected proceeds from warrant exercises. In the event the Divestment Transaction does not
close, the warrants are not exercised in full or cash flows from operations do not meet our forecasts, we would be required to refinance the 2018 Euro Term Loan in whole or in part. Pursuant to
the Reimbursement Agreement, all commitments under the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility terminate on the refinancing of any Euro Term Loan. We face the risk that we will not be able to
renew, repay or refinance our indebtedness when due, or that the terms of any renewal or refinancing will not be on better terms than those of such indebtedness being refinanced. In the event
we are not able to refinance our indebtedness, we might be forced to dispose of assets on disadvantageous terms or reduce or suspend operations, any of which would materially and adversely
affect our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
If the Divestment Transaction fails to complete or is terminated, we may need to find alternative sources of funds to repay certain of our indebtedness
On July 9, 2017, we entered into a framework agreement (the “Framework Agreement”) with Slovenia Broadband S.à r.l. (the "Purchaser"), a wholly owned subsidiary of United Group B.V.,
relating to the sale of our Croatia and Slovenia operations for cash consideration of EUR 230.0 million (approximately US$ 275.8 million), subject to customary working capital adjustments
(the "Divestment Transaction"). The closing of the Divestment Transaction is subject to obtaining regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. On November 15, 2017 the
Croatian Agency for Electronic Media ("CAEM") published a decision that the acquisition by the Purchaser is not permitted under the Croatian Act on Electronic Media due to certain cross
ownership restrictions that CAEM believes to be applicable to the Divestment Transaction. Following the sale by the United Group of certain assets in Croatia to address this cross ownership
restriction, the Purchaser has reapplied for approval from CAEM. Under the terms of the Framework Agreement, the Purchaser has the right to extend the closing date of the transaction until
March 31, 2018 (the "Long Stop Date"). There is no guarantee that the CAEM regulatory approval or any other regulatory approvals will be obtained by the Long Stop Date. In the event the
required regulatory approvals are not obtained by the Long Stop Date or the parties have not otherwise agreed to extend that date, both we and the Purchaser have the right to terminate the
Framework Agreement on notice to the other party. If the Divestment Transaction does not close or is terminated, we would not be able to repay indebtedness we planned to repay with expected
proceeds of the Divestment Transaction and would need to find alternative sources of funds to repay such indebtedness (see "We may be unable to refinance our existing indebtedness and may
not be able to obtain favourable refinancing terms" above).
We may be subject to changes in tax rates and exposure to additional tax liabilities.
We are subject to taxes in a number of foreign jurisdictions, including in respect of our operations as well as capital transactions undertaken by us. We are subject to regular review and audit by
tax authorities, and in the ordinary course of our business there are transactions and calculations where the ultimate tax determination is unknown. Significant judgment is required in
determining our provision for taxes. The final determination of our tax liabilities resulting from tax audits, related proceedings or otherwise could be materially different from our tax provisions.
Economic and political pressures to increase receipts in various jurisdictions may make taxation and tax rates subject to significant change and the satisfactory resolution of any tax disputes
more difficult. The occurrence of any of these events could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
A default by us in connection with our obligations under our outstanding indebtedness could result in our inability to continue to conduct our business.
Pursuant to the Reimbursement Agreement and the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility, we pledged all of the shares of CME NV and of CME BV, which together own all of our interests in our
operating subsidiaries, in favor of Time Warner as security for this indebtedness. If we or these subsidiaries were to default under the terms of any of the relevant agreements, Time Warner
would have the ability to sell all or a portion of the assets pledged to it in order to pay amounts outstanding under such debt instruments. This could result in our inability to conduct our
business.
Fluctuations in exchange rates may continue to adversely affect our results of operations.
Our reporting currency is the dollar and CME Ltd.'s functional currency is the Euro. Our consolidated revenues and costs are divided across a range of European currencies. In 2017, the
weakening of the dollar had a positive impact on reported revenues when translated from the functional currencies of our operations. Any future strengthening of the dollar will have a negative
impact on our reported revenues. Furthermore, fluctuations in exchange rates may negatively impact programming costs. While local programming is generally purchased in local currencies, a
significant portion of our content costs relates to foreign programming purchased pursuant to dollar-denominated agreements. If the dollar appreciates against the functional currencies of our
operating segments, the cost of acquiring such content would be adversely affected, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and cash flows.
Our strategies to enhance our carriage fees and diversify our revenues may not be successful.
We are focused on creating additional revenue streams from our broadcast operations as well as increasing revenues generated from television advertising, which is how we generate most of our
revenues. Our main efforts with respect to this strategy are on increasing carriage fees from cable, satellite and IPTV operators for carriage of our channels as well as continuing to seek
improvements in advertising pricing. Agreements with operators generally have a term of one or more years, at which time agreements must be renewed. There can be no assurance that we will
be successful in renewing carriage fee agreements on similar or better terms. During negotiations to implement our carriage fees strategy in prior years, some cable and satellite operators
suspended the broadcast of our channels, which negatively affected the reach and audience shares of those operations and, as a result, advertising revenues. There is a risk that operators may
refuse to carry our channels while carriage fee negotiations are ongoing, which would temporarily reduce the reach of those channels and may result in clients withdrawing advertising from our
channels. The occurrence of any of these events may have an adverse impact on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows. If we are ineffective in negotiations with carriers or
in achieving further carriage fee increases, our profitability will continue to be dependent primarily on television advertising revenues, which increases the importance placed on our ability to
improve advertising pricing and generate advertising revenues. In addition to carriage fees, we are also working to build-out our offerings of advertising video-on-demand products and other
opportunities for advertising online. There can be no assurances that our revenue diversification initiatives will ultimately be successful, and if unsuccessful, this may have an adverse impact on
our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
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A downgrading of our corporate credit ratings may adversely affect our ability to raise additional financing.
Moody’s Investors Service rates our corporate credit as B2 with a positive outlook. Standard & Poor’s rates our corporate credit B+ currently on CreditWatch with developing implications due
to the Divestment Transaction. Our ratings show each agency's opinion of our financial strength, operating performance and ability to meet our debt obligations as they become due. These
ratings take into account the particular emphasis the ratings agencies place on metrics such as leverage ratio and cash flow, which they use as measurements of a company's liquidity and
financial strength. They also reflect an emphasis placed by the ratings agencies on a track record of strong financial support from Time Warner. We may be subject to downgrades if our
operating performance deteriorates or we fail to maintain adequate levels of liquidity. In addition, our ratings may be downgraded if the agencies form a view that material support from Time
Warner is not as strong, or the strategic importance of CME to Time Warner is not as significant as it has been in the past. In the event our corporate credit ratings are lowered by the rating
agencies, we may not be able to refinance our existing indebtedness or raise new indebtedness that may be permitted under the Reimbursement Agreement and the 2021 Revolving Credit
Facility (when drawn), and we will have to pay higher interest rates, all of which would have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
If our goodwill, other intangible assets and long-lived assets become impaired, we may be required to record significant charges to earnings.
We review our long-lived assets for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount may not be recoverable. Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets
are required to be assessed for impairment at least annually. Factors that may be considered a change in circumstances indicating that the carrying amount of our goodwill, indefinite-lived
intangible assets or long-lived assets may not be recoverable include slower growth rates in our markets, reduced expected future cash flows, increased country risk premium as a result of
political uncertainty and a decline in stock price and market capitalization. We consider available current information when calculating our impairment charge. If there are indicators of
impairment, our long-term cash flow forecasts for our operations deteriorate or discount rates increase, we may be required to recognize additional impairment charges in later periods. See Part
II, Item 8, Note 4, "Goodwill and Intangible Assets" for the carrying amounts of goodwill in each of our reporting units.
Risks Relating to Our Operations
Content may become more expensive to produce or acquire or we may not be able to develop or acquire content that is attractive to our audiences.
Television programming is one of the most significant components of our operating costs. The ability of our programming to generate advertising revenues depends substantially on our ability
to develop, produce or acquire programming that matches audience tastes and attracts high audience shares, which is difficult to predict. The commercial success of a program depends on
several tangible and intangible factors, including the impact of competing programs, the availability of alternate forms of entertainment and leisure time activities, our ability to anticipate and
adapt to changes in consumer tastes and behavior, and general economic conditions. While we have been successful in reducing content costs in prior periods, the cost of acquiring content
attractive to our viewers, such as feature films and popular television series and formats, is likely to increase in the future. Our expenditures in respect of locally produced programming may also
increase due to competition for talent and other resources, changes in audience tastes in our markets or from the implementation of any new laws and regulations mandating the broadcast of a
greater number of locally produced programs. In addition, we typically acquire syndicated programming rights under multi-year commitments before knowing how such programming will
perform in our markets. In the event any such programming does not attract adequate audience share, it may be necessary to increase our expenditures by investing in additional programming,
subject to the availability of adequate financial resources, as well as to write down the value of any underperforming programming. Any material increase in content costs could have a material
adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Our operations are vulnerable to significant changes in viewing habits and technology that could adversely affect us.
The television broadcasting industry is affected by rapid innovations in technology. The implementation of these new technologies and the introduction of non-traditional content distribution
systems have increased competition for audiences and advertisers. Platforms such as direct-to-home cable and satellite distribution systems, the internet, subscription and advertising video-on-
demand, user-generated content sites and the availability of content on portable digital devices have changed consumer behavior by increasing the number of entertainment choices available to
audiences and the methods for the distribution, storage and consumption of content. This development has fragmented television audiences in more developed markets and could adversely affect
our ability to retain audience share and attract advertisers as such technologies penetrate our markets. As we adapt to changing viewing patterns, it may be necessary to expend substantial
financial and managerial resources to ensure necessary access to new technologies or distribution systems. Such initiatives may not develop into profitable business models. Furthermore,
technologies that enable viewers to choose when, how, where and what content to watch, as well as to fast-forward or skip advertisements, may cause changes in consumer behavior that could
have a negative impact on our advertising revenues. In addition, compression techniques and other technological developments allow for an increase in the number of channels that may be
broadcast in our markets and expanded programming offerings that may be offered to highly targeted audiences. Reductions in the cost of launching new channels could lower entry barriers and
encourage the development of increasingly targeted niche programming on various distribution platforms. This could increase the competitive demand for popular programming, resulting in an
increase in content costs as we compete for audiences and advertising revenues. A failure to successfully adapt to changes in our industry as a result of technological advances may have an
adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
Our operating results are dependent on the importance of television as an advertising medium.
We generate most of our revenues from the sale of our advertising airtime on television channels in our markets. Television competes with various other media, such as print, radio, the internet
and outdoor advertising, for advertising spending. In all of the countries in which we operate, television constitutes the single largest component of all advertising spending. There can be no
assurances that the television advertising market will maintain its current position among advertising media in our markets. Furthermore, there can be no assurances that changes in the
regulatory environment or improvements in technology will not favor other advertising media or other television broadcasters. Increases in competition among advertising media arising from
the development of new forms of advertising media and distribution could result in a decline in the appeal of television as an advertising medium generally or of our channels specifically. A
decline in television advertising spending as a component of total advertising spending in any period or in specific markets would have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of
operations and cash flows.
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We are subject to legal compliance risks and the risk of legal or regulatory proceedings being initiated against us.
We are required to comply with a wide variety of laws and other regulatory obligations in the jurisdictions in which we operate and compliance by our businesses is subject to scrutiny by
regulators and other government authorities in these jurisdictions. Compliance with foreign as well as applicable U.S. laws and regulations related to our businesses, such as broadcasting content
and advertising regulations, competition regulations, tax laws, employment laws, data protection requirements including the new EU General Data Protection Regulation, and anti-corruption
laws, increases the costs and risks of doing business in these jurisdictions. We believe we have implemented appropriate risk management and compliance policies and procedures that are
designed to ensure our employees, contractors and agents comply with these laws and regulations; however, a violation of such laws and regulations or the Company’s policies and procedures
could occur. A failure or alleged failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations, whether inadvertent or otherwise, may result in legal or regulatory proceedings being initiated against
us.
We have become aware of provisions in the tax regulations of one of our markets that shift the liability for taxes on gains resulting from certain capital transactions from the seller to the buyer.
This provision may have been applicable to an acquisition made by us, although we do not believe we have any liability connected to this transaction. In addition, in 2016, the prosecuting
authorities in Romania requested information in respect of an investigation into certain transactions entered into by Pro TV in 2014 primarily with certain related parties. We believe that the
transactions under review are fully supported and have cooperated with the authorities in responding to the information request. If these or other contingencies result in legal or regulatory
proceedings being initiated against us, or if developments occur in respect of our compliance with existing laws or regulations, or there are changes in the interpretation or application of such
laws or regulations, we may incur substantial costs, be required to change our business practices (including on what terms and conditions we offer our channels under carriage agreements), our
reputation may be damaged or we may be exposed to unanticipated civil or criminal liability, including fines and other penalties that may be substantial. This could have a material adverse
effect on our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
Our operations are in developing markets where there are additional risks related to political and economic uncertainty, biased treatment and compliance with evolving legal and regulatory
systems.
Our revenue-generating operations are located in Central and Eastern Europe and we may be significantly affected by risks that may be different to those posed by investments in more
developed markets. These risks include, but are not limited to, social and political instability, changes in local regulatory requirements including restrictions on foreign ownership, inconsistent
regulatory or judicial practice, and increased taxes and other costs. The economic and political systems, legal and tax regimes, regulatory practices, standards of corporate governance and
business practices of countries in this region continue to develop. Policies and practices may be subject to significant adjustments, including following changes in political leadership. This may
result in social or political instability or disruptions and the potential for political influence on the media as well as inconsistent application of tax and legal regulations, arbitrary treatment before
regulatory or judicial authorities and other general business risks. Other potential risks inherent in markets with evolving economic and political environments include exchange controls, higher
taxes, tariffs and other levies as well as longer payment cycles. The relative level of development of our markets and the influence of local politics also present a potential for biased treatment of
us before regulators or courts in the event of disputes. If such a dispute occurs, those regulators or courts might favor local interests over our interests. Ultimately, this could have a material
adverse impact on our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
Piracy of our content may decrease revenues we can earn from our content and adversely impact our business and profitability.
Piracy of our content poses significant challenges in our markets. Technological developments, including digital copying, file compressing, the use of international proxies and the growing
penetration of high bandwidth internet connections, have made it easier to create, transmit and distribute high quality unauthorized copies of content in unprotected digital formats. Furthermore,
there are a growing number of video streaming sites, increasing the risk of online transmission of our content without consent. The proliferation of such sites broadcasting content pirated from
us could result in a reduction of revenues that we receive from the legitimate distribution of our content, including through video-on-demand and other services. Protection of our intellectual
property is in large part dependent on the manner in which applicable intellectual property laws in the countries in which we operate are construed and enforced. We seek to limit the threat of
content piracy. However, detecting and policing the unauthorized use of our intellectual property is often difficult and remedies may be limited under applicable law. Steps we take may not
prevent the infringement by third parties. There can be no assurance that our efforts to enforce our rights and protect our intellectual property will be successful in preventing piracy, which
limits our ability to generate revenues from our content.
We rely on network and information systems and other technology that may be subject to disruption, security breaches or misuse, which could harm our business or our reputation.
We make extensive use of network and information systems and other technologies, including those related to our internal network management as well as our broadcasting operations. These
systems are central to many of our business activities. Network and information systems-related events, such as computer hackings, computer viruses, worms or other destructive or disruptive
software, process breakdowns, malicious activities or other security breaches could result in a disruption or degradation of our services, the loss of information or the improper disclosure of
personal data. The occurrence of any of these events could negatively impact our business if we are required to expend resources to remedy such a security breach or if they result in legal claims
or proceedings or our reputation is harmed. In addition, improper disclosure of personal data could subject us to liability under laws, including the new EU General Data Protection Regulation,
that protect personal data in the countries in which we operate. The development and maintenance of systems to prevent these events from occurring requires ongoing monitoring and updating
as efforts to overcome security measures become more sophisticated. As technologies evolve, we will need to expend additional resources to protect our technology and information systems,
which could have an adverse impact on our results of operations and cash flows.
Our broadcasting licenses may not be renewed and may be subject to revocation.
We require broadcasting and, in some cases, other operating licenses as well as other authorizations from national regulatory authorities in our markets in order to conduct our broadcasting
business. While our broadcasting licenses for our operations in the Slovak Republic are valid for indefinite time periods, our other broadcasting licenses expire at various times through 2028.
While we expect that our material licenses and authorizations will be renewed or extended as required to continue to operate our business, we cannot guarantee that this will occur or that they
will not be subject to revocation, particularly in markets where there is relatively greater political risk as a result of less developed political and legal institutions. The failure to comply in all
material respects with the terms of broadcasting licenses or other authorizations or with applications filed in respect thereto may result in such licenses or other authorizations not being renewed
or otherwise being terminated. Furthermore, no assurances can be given that renewals or extensions of existing licenses will be issued on the same terms as existing licenses or that further
restrictions or conditions will not be imposed in the future. Any non-renewal or termination of any other broadcasting or operating licenses or other authorizations or material modification of the
terms of any renewed licenses may have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
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Our success depends on attracting and retaining key personnel.
Our success depends partly upon the efforts and abilities of our key personnel and our ability to attract and retain key personnel. Our management teams have significant experience in the media
industry and have made important contributions to our growth and success. Although we have been successful in attracting and retaining such people in the past, competition for highly skilled
individuals is intense. There can be no assurance that we will continue to be successful in attracting and retaining such individuals in the future. The loss of the services of any of these
individuals could have an adverse effect on our businesses, results of operations and cash flows.
Risks Relating to Enforcement Rights
We are a Bermuda company and enforcement of civil liabilities and judgments may be difficult.
We are a Bermuda company. Substantially all of our assets and all of our operations are located, and all of our revenues are derived, outside the United States. In addition, several of our
directors and officers are non-residents of the United States, and all or a substantial portion of the assets of such persons are or may be located outside the United States. As a result, investors
may be unable to effect service of process within the United States upon such persons, or to enforce against them judgments obtained in the United States courts, including judgments predicated
upon the civil liability provisions of the United States federal and state securities laws. There is uncertainty as to whether the courts of Bermuda and the countries in which we operate would
enforce (a) judgments of United States courts obtained against us or such persons predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the United States federal and state securities laws or (b) in
original actions brought in such countries, liabilities against us or such persons predicated upon the United States federal and state securities laws.
Our Bye-laws restrict shareholders from bringing legal action against our officers and directors.
Our Bye-laws contain a broad waiver by our shareholders of any claim or right of action in Bermuda, both individually and on our behalf, against any of our officers or directors. The waiver
applies to any action taken or concurred in by an officer or director, or the failure of an officer or director to take any action, in the performance of his or her duties, except with respect to any
matter involving any fraud or dishonesty on the part of the officer or director. This waiver limits the right of shareholders to assert claims against our officers and directors unless the act or
failure to act involves fraud or dishonesty.
Risks Relating to our Common Stock
Our share price may be adversely affected by sales of unregistered shares or future issuances of our shares.
Time Warner is the largest holder of shares of our Class A common stock, holding 61,407,775 unregistered shares of Class A common stock, one share of Series A preferred stock, 200,000
shares of Series B preferred stock and warrants to acquire 100,926,996 shares of our Class A common stock (the "TW Warrants"). The share of Series A preferred stock is convertible into
11,211,449 shares of Class A common stock and the shares of Series B preferred stock are convertible into shares of Class A common stock at the option of Time Warner (subject to certain
exceptions). As of December 31, 2017 , the 200,000 shares of Series B preferred stock were convertible into approximately 109.2 million shares of Class A common stock. The TW Warrants
are exercisable for shares of Class A common stock until May 2, 2018 at an exercise price of US$ 1.00 per share. Time Warner has registration rights with respect to all its shares of Class A
common stock now held or hereafter acquired. Furthermore, there are additional unregistered shares of our Class A common stock outstanding that we may be obligated to register and shares of
Class A common stock underlying other warrants that may enter into trading. For additional information on the Series A preferred stock, Series B preferred stock and TW Warrants, see Part II,
Item 8, Note 12, "Convertible Redeemable Preferred Shares" and Note 13, "Equity" . In October 2016, Time Warner announced it has entered into a definitive merger agreement with AT&T
Inc. under which AT&T Inc. will acquire Time Warner. The merger is subject to approval by a number of regulatory authorities, including the U.S. Department of Justice. If completion of the
merger is successful, AT&T Inc. will become the beneficial owner of equity securities currently beneficially owned by Time Warner and the successor to rights related to such securities granted
to Time Warner.
We cannot predict what effect, if any, the entry into trading of previously issued unregistered shares of Class A common stock will have on the market price of our shares. We may also issue
additional shares of Class A common stock or securities convertible into our equity in the future. If more shares of our Class A common stock (or securities convertible into or exchangeable for
shares of our Class A common stock) are issued to Time Warner, the economic interests of current shareholders may be diluted and the price of our shares may be adversely affected.
The interests of Time Warner may conflict with the interests of other investors.
Time Warner is able to exercise voting power in us with respect to 46.3% of our outstanding shares of Class A common stock. As such, Time Warner is in a position to exercise significant
influence over the outcome of corporate actions requiring shareholder approval, such as the election of directors or certain transactions. Following the issuance of the TW Warrants, the
aggregate economic interest of Time Warner in us is approximately 76.1% (without giving effect to the accretion of the Series B preferred stock after December 31, 2017 ). Furthermore, Time
Warner has the right to appoint one less than the number required to constitute a majority of our board of directors, provided that Time Warner continues to own not less than 40% of the voting
power of the Company.
We are also party to an amended investor rights agreement with Time Warner and the other parties thereto under which, among other things, Time Warner was granted a contractual preemptive
right (subject to certain exclusions) with respect to issuances of the Company’s equity securities, which permits it to maintain its pro rata economic interest as well as a right to top any offer that
would result in a change of control of the Company. Under Bermuda law, there is no takeover code or similar legislation requiring an acquirer of a certain percentage of our Class A common
stock to tender for the remaining publically held shares. In addition to being our largest shareholder, Time Warner is our largest secured creditor, as it guarantees 100% of our outstanding senior
indebtedness and is the lender under the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility. The 2021 Revolving Credit Facility (when drawn) and the Reimbursement Agreement contain maintenance covenants in
respect of interest cover, cash flow cover and total leverage ratios and includes covenants in respect of the incurrence of indebtedness (including refinancing indebtedness), the provision of
guarantees, acquisitions and disposal and granting security. As such, Time Warner may be in a position to determine whether to permit transactions, waive defaults or accelerate such
indebtedness or take other steps in its capacity as a secured creditor in a manner that might not be consistent with the interests of the holders of our Class A common stock. Furthermore, in
certain circumstances, the interests of Time Warner as our largest shareholder could be in conflict with the interests of minority shareholders.
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The price of our Class A common stock is likely to remain volatile.
The market price of shares of our Class A common stock may be influenced by many factors, some of which are beyond our control, including but not limited to those described above under
“Risks Relating to Our Operations” as well as the following: general economic and business trends, variations in quarterly operating results, license renewals, regulatory developments in our
operating countries and the European Union, the condition of the media industry in our operating countries, the volume of trading in shares of our Class A common stock, future issuances of
shares of our Class A common stock and investors’ and securities analysts’ perception of us and other companies that investors or securities analysts deem comparable in the television
broadcasting industry. In addition, stock markets in general have experienced extreme price and volume fluctuations that have often been unrelated to and disproportionate to the operating
performance of broadcasting companies. These broad market and industry factors may materially reduce the market price of shares of our Class A common stock, regardless of our operating
performance.
Our business could be negatively impacted as a result of shareholder activism.
On January 17, 2017, TCS Capital Management, LLC ("TCS Capital"), a beneficial owner of approximately 7.0% of our Class A common stock, filed an amendment to its Schedule 13D in
which it disclosed its opinion that the Company should hire an investment bank to run a process to sell the Company as well as replace the Company's Board of Directors with new directors
recommended by TCS Capital. In recent years, shareholder activists have become involved in numerous public companies. Shareholder activists frequently propose to involve themselves in the
governance, strategic direction and operations of the Company. Such proposals may disrupt our business and divert the attention of our management and employees, and any perceived
uncertainties as to our future direction resulting from such a situation could result in the loss of potential business opportunities, be exploited by our competitors, cause concern to our current or
potential customers, and make it more difficult to attract and retain qualified personnel and business partners, all of which could adversely affect our business. In addition, actions of activist
shareholders may cause significant fluctuations in our stock price based on temporary or speculative market perceptions or other factors that do not necessarily reflect the underlying
fundamentals and prospects of our business.
ITEM 1B. UNRE SOLVED STAFF COMMEN TS
None.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
We own and lease properties in the countries in which we operate. These facilities are fully utilized for current ongoing operations, are in good condition and are adequately equipped for
purposes of conducting broadcasting, content production or such other operations as we require. We believe that suitable additional space is available on acceptable terms in the event of an
expansion of our businesses. The table below provides a brief description of our significant properties.
Location
Hamilton, Bermuda
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Sofia, Bulgaria
Prague, Czech Republic
Bucharest, Romania
Bratislava, Slovak Republic
Property
Leased office
Leased office
Leased buildings
Owned and leased buildings
Owned and leased buildings
Owned buildings
Use
Registered office, Corporate
Corporate office, Corporate
Office and studio space (Bulgaria segment)
Administrative center, Corporate;
Office and studio space (Czech Republic segment)
Office and studio space (Romania segment)
Office and studio space (Slovak Republic segment)
For further information on the cash resources that fund these facility-related costs, see Part II, Item 7, III, "Liquidity and Capital Resources".
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
General
We are from time to time party to legal proceedings, arbitrations and regulatory proceedings arising in the normal course of our business operations, including the proceeding described below.
We evaluate, on a quarterly basis, developments in such matters and provide accruals for such matters, as appropriate. In making such decisions, we consider the degree of probability of an
unfavorable outcome and our ability to make a reasonable estimate of the amount of a loss. An unfavorable outcome in any such proceedings, if material, could have an adverse effect on our
business or consolidated financial statements.
In the fourth quarter of 2016, our Slovak subsidiary MARKIZA-SLOVAKIA, spol. s.r.o. (“Markiza”) was notified of claims that were filed in June 2016 in a court of first instance in Bratislava,
the Slovak Republic to collect amounts allegedly owing under four promissory notes. These four promissory notes were purportedly issued in June 2000 by Pavol Rusko in his personal capacity
and were purportedly guaranteed by Markiza under the signature of Mr. Rusko, who was an executive director of Markiza at that time as well as one of its shareholders. The notes purport to be
issued in favor of Marian Kocner, a controversial Slovak businessman, and to a former associate of Mr. Kocner, and were supposedly assigned several times, ultimately to Sprava a inkaso
zmeniek, s.r.o., a company owned by Mr. Kocner that is the plaintiff in these proceedings. Two of the notes allegedly matured in 2015 and the other two in 2016. The four notes purport to be in
the aggregate amount of approximately EUR 69.0 million .
Despite a random case assignment system in the Slovak Republic, claims in respect of three of the notes were initially assigned to the same judge. The judge who was assigned the claim in
respect of the fourth promissory note (in the amount of approximately EUR 26.0 million) terminated proceedings in January 2017 because the plaintiff failed to pay court fees. The plaintiff
refiled this claim in June 2017; the judge who was assigned the refiled claim terminated proceedings in September after the plaintiff again failed to pay court fees. In responses to the claims in
respect of the other three promissory notes that were filed in August 2017, Mr. Rusko asserted that he signed the three notes in June 2000. We do not believe that the notes were signed in June
2000 or that any of the notes are authentic. We are vigorously defending the claims.
ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable.
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PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
Shares of Class A common stock of Central European Media Enterprises Ltd. began trading on the NASDAQ National Market (since renamed the NASDAQ Global Select Market) on October
13, 1994 and began trading on the Prague Stock Exchange on June 27, 2005. On each market, the shares are traded under the ticker symbol "CETV".
On February 5, 2018 , the last reported sales price for shares of our Class A common stock was US$ 4.60 .
The following table sets forth the high and low prices for shares of our Class A common stock for each quarterly period during the last two fiscal years as reported by NASDAQ.
Fourth Quarter
Third Quarter
Second Quarter
First Quarter
High
(US$ / Share)
$
2017
$
5.20
4.55
4.45
3.15
Low
(US$ / Share)
High
(US$ / Share)
Low
(US$ / Share)
2016
4.00 $
3.90
2.90
2.40
2.88 $
2.48
2.96
2.71
2.15
2.05
2.03
2.17
At February 5, 2018 , there were approximately 52 holders of record (including brokerage firms and other nominees) of shares of Class A common stock.
Under our 2015 Stock Incentive Plan (the "2015 Plan"), 6,000,000 shares of Class A are authorized for issuance in respect of equity awards. In addition, any shares available under our Amended
and Restated Stock Incentive Plan (which expired on June 1, 2015), including in respect of any awards that expire, terminate or are forfeited, will be available for awards under the 2015 Plan
(see Item 8, Note 17, "Stock-based Compensation" ). See Part III, Item 12, "Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters" for further
information.
DIVIDEND POLICY
We have not declared or paid and have no present intention to declare or pay in the foreseeable future any cash dividends in respect to any class of our shares of common stock.
PURCHASE OF OWN STOCK
We did not purchase any of our own stock in 2017 .
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PERFORMANCE GRAPH
The following performance graph is a line graph comparing the change in the cumulative total shareholder return of the Class A common stock against the cumulative total return of the
NASDAQ Composite Index and the Dow Jones Europe Stock Index between December 31, 2012 and December 31, 2017 . The graph below assumes the investment of US$ 100 on December
31, 2012 in our Class A common stock, the NASDAQ Composite and the Dow Jones Europe Stock Index, assuming dividends, if any, are reinvested.
Value of US$ 100 invested at December 31, 2012 as of December 31, 2017 :
Central European Media Enterprises Ltd.
NASDAQ Composite Index
Dow Jones Europe Stock Index
14
$
$
$
75.24
228.63
129.34
Index
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
Our selected consolidated financial data should be read together with our consolidated financial statements and related notes included in Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data”
of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
The following tables set forth the selected consolidated financial data for each of the years in the five-year period ended December 31, 2017 . The selected consolidated financial data is qualified
in its entirety and should be read in conjunction with Item 7, “Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and Item 8, “Financial Statements and
Supplementary Data”. We have derived the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income / loss data for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 and the
consolidated balance sheet data as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 from the audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The consolidated
statements of operations and comprehensive income / loss data for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 and the balance sheet data as of December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 were
derived from consolidated financial statements that are not included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The selected financial data for all periods presented has been recast due to the impact
of our Croatia and Slovenia segments which are presented as discontinued operations (see Item 8, Note 3, "Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale" ).
For The Year Ended December 31,
(US$ 000's, except per share data)
2017
2016
2015
2014
2013
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE
INCOME / LOSS DATA:
Net revenues
Operating income / (loss)
Income / (loss) from continuing operations
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax
Net income / (loss) attributable to CME Ltd.
PER SHARE DATA:
Net income / (loss) per common share from:
Continuing operations — basic
Continuing operations — diluted
Discontinued operations — basic
Discontinued operations — diluted
Net income / (loss) attributable to CME Ltd. — basic
Net income / (loss) attributable to CME Ltd. — diluted
Weighted average common shares used in computing per share amounts (000’s):
Basic
Diluted
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET DATA:
Cash and cash equivalents
Other current assets (1)
Non-current assets
Total assets
Current liabilities (1)
Non-current liabilities
Temporary equity
CME Ltd. shareholders' (deficit) / equity
Noncontrolling interests
Total liabilities and equity
$
$
$
$
$
$
574,212
$
526,174
$
129,949
54,053
(4,626)
105,532
(164,425)
(16,172)
49,768
$
(180,291)
$
496,195 $
88,047
(86,176)
(29,396)
(114,901) $
557,273 $
32,599
(154,912)
(76,990)
(227,428) $
504,401
(179,045)
(277,421)
(4,127)
(277,651)
0.17
0.15
(0.03)
(0.03)
0.14
0.12
$
(1.18)
$
(1.18)
(0.10)
(0.10)
(1.28)
(1.28)
(0.70) $
(0.70)
(0.20)
(0.20)
(0.90)
(0.90)
(1.14) $
(1.14)
(0.52)
(0.52)
(1.66)
(1.66)
(2.24)
(2.24)
(0.03)
(0.03)
(2.27)
(2.27)
155,846
236,404
151,017
151,017
146,866
146,866
146,509
146,509
125,723
125,723
As at December 31,
(US$ 000's)
2017
2016
2015
2014
2013
54,903
$
40,606
$
409,871
299,814
1,163,281
1,050,297
1,628,055
$
1,390,717
$
59,120 $
299,164
1,082,133
1,440,417 $
28,844 $
345,784
1,230,200
1,604,828 $
90,921
432,609
1,425,321
1,948,851
188,264
$
171,564
$
1,180,968
1,070,786
264,593
(5,788)
18
254,899
(107,804)
1,272
$
1,628,055
$
1,390,717
$
146,308 $
974,270
241,198
77,260
1,381
1,440,417 $
450,286 $
653,434
223,926
279,794
(2,612)
1,604,828 $
318,931
981,029
207,890
440,108
893
1,948,851
(1) Other current assets and current liabilities as at December 31, 2017 include total assets held for sale and total liabilities held for sale, respectively.
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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Please refer to page 2 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a list of defined terms used herein.
The exchange rates used in this report are as at December 31, 2017 , unless otherwise indicated.
I. Overview
CME Strategy
Our operations comprise a unique collection of television networks across Central and Eastern Europe, each of which enjoys a strong competitive position due to audience share leadership,
brand strength, strong local content, and the depth and experience of country management. The reach and affinity we provide advertisers supports our model of pricing inventory at a premium to
our competition, and we pursue sales strategies designed to maximize our revenues in order to provide additional financial resources to invest in local content. We believe these competitive
advantages position us to benefit if forecast economic growth leads to continued growth of the television advertising markets in the countries in which we operate.
We are focused on enhancing the performance of our television networks in each country, which we expect will continue improving operating margins and cash generation over the short- and
medium-term. The main elements of our strategy are as follows:
•
•
•
•
•
leveraging content popular with our target demographics to maintain or increase our television audience share leadership and advertising market shares;
driving growth in television advertising revenues through our pricing strategies;
increasing carriage fees and subscription revenues to provide more diversified and predictable income;
expanding our online content offerings to further diversify revenues; and
maintaining a strict cost discipline and identifying cost synergies while safeguarding our brands and competitive strengths.
As market leaders with experienced management teams in each country, we believe we are well positioned to identify new challenges in a timely manner and adjust our strategy as new
opportunities or threats arise.
We manage our business on a geographical basis with four operating segments: Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Romania, and the Slovak Republic. These operating segments, which are also our
reportable segments, reflect how our operating performance is evaluated by our chief operating decision makers, who we have identified as our co-Chief Executive Officers; how our operations
are managed by segment managers; and the structure of our internal financial reporting.
On July 9, 2017, we entered into a framework agreement with Slovenia Broadband S.à r.l., a wholly owned subsidiary of United Group B.V., relating to the sale of our Croatia and Slovenia
operations. Accordingly, these operations are classified as held for sale and they are presented as discontinued operations for all periods in this report; and the discussion below relates to our
continuing operations in the four remaining operating segments.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
In this report we refer to several non-GAAP financial measures, including OIBDA, OIBDA margin, free cash flow and unlevered free cash flow. We believe that each of these metrics is useful
to investors for the reasons outlined below. Non-GAAP financial measures may not be comparable to similar measures reported by other companies. Non-GAAP financial measures should be
evaluated in conjunction with, and are not a substitute for, US GAAP financial measures.
We evaluate our consolidated results and the performance of our segments based on net revenues and OIBDA. We believe OIBDA is useful to investors because it provides a meaningful
representation of our performance, as it excludes certain items that do not impact either our cash flows or the operating results of our operations. OIBDA and unlevered free cash flow are also
used as components in determining management bonuses.
OIBDA includes amortization and impairment of program rights and is calculated as operating income / loss before depreciation, amortization of intangible assets and impairments of assets and
certain unusual or infrequent items that are not considered by our co-Chief Executive Officers when evaluating our performance. Stock-based compensation and certain other items are not
allocated to our segments for purposes of evaluating their performance and therefore are not included in their respective OIBDA. Our key performance measure of the efficiency of our
consolidated operations and our segments is OIBDA margin. We define OIBDA margin as the ratio of OIBDA to net revenues.
Following a repricing of our Guarantee Fees in March 2017, the proportion of interest and related Guarantee Fees on our outstanding indebtedness that must be paid in cash has increased. In
addition to this obligation to pay more Guarantee Fees in cash, we expect to use cash generated by the business to pay certain Guarantee Fees that are payable in kind. These cash payments are
all reflected in free cash flow; accordingly, we believe unlevered free cash flow, defined as free cash flow before cash payments for interest and Guarantee Fees, best illustrates the cash
generated by our operations when comparing periods. We define free cash flow as net cash generated from continuing operating activities less purchases of property, plant and equipment, net of
disposals of property, plant and equipment and excluding the cash impact of certain unusual or infrequent items that are not included in costs charged in arriving at OIBDA because they are not
considered by our co-Chief Executive Officers when evaluating performance.
For additional information regarding our business segments, including a reconciliation of OIBDA to US GAAP financial measures, see Item 8, Note 20, "Segment Data" . For a reconciliation of
free cash flow and unlevered free cash flow to a US GAAP financial measure, see "Free Cash Flow and Unlevered Free Cash Flow" below.
While our reporting currency is the dollar, our consolidated revenues and costs are divided across a range of European currencies and CME Ltd.’s functional currency is the Euro. Given the
significant movement of the currencies in the markets in which we operate against the dollar, we believe that it is useful to provide percentage movements based on actual (“% Act”) percentage
movements, which includes the effect of foreign exchange, as well as like-for-like percentage movements (“% Lfl”). The like-for-like percentage movement references reflect the impact of
applying the current period average exchange rates to the prior period revenues and costs. Since the difference between like-for-like and actual percentage movements is solely the impact of
movements in foreign exchange rates, our discussion in the following analysis is focused on constant currency percentage movements in order to highlight those factors influencing operational
performance. The incremental impact of foreign exchange rates is presented in the tables preceding such analysis.
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Executive Summary
The following tables provide a summary of our consolidated results for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 :
Net revenues
Operating income
Operating margin
OIBDA
OIBDA margin
2017
$
574,212
$
129,949
22.6%
2016
526,174
105,532
20.1%
$
165,532
$
136,908
28.8%
26.0%
For The Year Ended December 31, (US$ 000's)
Movement
% Act
% Lfl
2016
9.1%
23.1%
2.5 p.p.
20.9%
2.8 p.p.
5.5%
18.8%
2.5 p.p.
16.5%
2.7 p.p.
$
526,174
$
105,532
20.1%
2015
496,195
88,047
17.7%
$
136,908
$
109,442
26.0%
22.1%
Movement
% Act
% Lfl
6.0%
19.9%
2.4 p.p.
25.1%
3.9 p.p.
6.3%
19.4%
2.2 p.p.
24.4%
3.8 p.p.
Our consolidated net revenues increased 9% at actual exchange rates and 6% at constant rates in 2017 compared to 2016 due to an increase in both television advertising revenues and carriage
fee and subscription revenues. Television advertising spending in the countries in which we operate grew an estimated 6% at constant rates in 2017 compared to 2016. Our consolidated
television advertising revenues grew 8% at actual rates and 5% at constant rates due primarily to significant year-on-year growth in Romania, as well as higher levels of advertising spending in
Bulgaria and the Czech Republic. Carriage fees and subscription revenues increased 17% at actual rates and 15% at constant rates primarily due to additional carriage fees from contracts with
cable, satellite and internet protocol television ("IPTV") operators in the Slovak Republic since January 2017, when those operations ceased broadcasting on DTT.
Costs charged in arriving at OIBDA increased 5% at actual rates and 2% at constant rates in 2017 compared to 2016. We controlled costs overall, while spending more on popular local content,
by offsetting this with savings in foreign acquired content and sports rights as well as reducing other operating costs. We made targeted investments in our programming line-up to satisfy
additional demand for GRPs in Romania, to improve our competitive positioning in Bulgaria and the Czech Republic, and to support the change in the way our channels are distributed in the
Slovak Republic. Other operating costs decreased due to savings from transmission costs, which offset higher marketing and staff costs.
Our focus on controlling costs while improving revenues led to another year of OIBDA margin expansion, which increased to 29% in 2017 from 26% in 2016. We expect the trend of revenues
growing at a faster pace than costs will continue in 2018 and for the next several years, leading to further margin expansion year on year although trends may vary from quarter to quarter.
We remained audience share leaders during 2017 in all of the countries in which we operate and improved our competitive position in both prime time and all day audience share in three out of
four countries. These audience shares give us a strong offering for advertisers, and we believe television continues to provide the most efficient medium to reach consumers in our markets.
During 2017 we rebranded our niche channels in the Czech Republic and Romania to bring them under the umbrella of our flagship brands in each respective country.
Looking ahead to 2018 and beyond:
•
•
Following significant GDP growth in Romania during 2017, which saw the highest GDP growth rate in the European Union for a second year, expansion is expected to moderate in
2018. However, analysts estimate that GDP growth in the countries in which we operate will continue to outpace that of the developed markets (as defined below). We anticipate the
television advertising market in each of our operating countries will grow in 2018.
Television continues to be the strongest medium for advertising in our operating countries, and demand for television advertising remains robust. This is particularly true in Romania
and the Slovak Republic, as both our operations and the respective markets were largely sold-out in 2017. As a result, we have introduced higher list prices in our sales policies for all
of our operating countries for 2018. Average realized prices for the year will ultimately depend on a number of factors, including the timing of commitments made for spending in
2018, the portion of those commitments that is prepaid, the volume of those commitments relative to the previous year, and the seasonality of advertisements actually placed.
• We expect to continue growing non-advertising based carriage fees and subscription revenues. Following the successful transition from DTT broadcasting of our channels in the
Slovak Republic, we expect growth in these consolidated revenues will be driven by contract renewals and increases in the number of subscribers to cable, satellite and IPTV
platforms, which would benefit profitability in all countries.
•
•
The production of local content remains a key pillar of our strategy as it generally attracts larger audiences. We continually refine our program grids and intend to maintain targeted
investments in local content in a cost effective manner. This is particularly true in the Slovak Republic, where we will maintain a strong line-up of local content as we seek to regain
audience share and television advertising market share lost in 2017 during the change in the way our channels were distributed.
Local content also continues to be important for attracting audiences that consume content through alternatives to linear television. Increased investments in content will also be
utilized to expand our offerings on subscription video on demand ("SVOD") platforms as well as advertising based video on demand ("AVOD") platforms to further diversify our
revenues.
• We believe increased investments in local content will be mostly offset by cost savings on foreign content, as well as savings in other operating costs, including cost synergies from
optimizing certain elements of our operations.
•
•
•
Our cash paid for income taxes will continue to increase as the operating companies in each jurisdiction return to generating profits and previous net operating losses are fully utilized.
The dollar is currently weaker than it was, on average, in 2017, and if this persists for the duration of 2018 our local currency results compared to the prior year will be even higher
when translated into dollars, further improving our overall results at actual exchange rates.
In 2018 we anticipate using increased cash generated by the business, expected proceeds from the sale of our operations in Croatia and Slovenia, any proceeds from warrant exercises,
and savings from lower debt service obligations to repay a significant balance of principal on our outstanding long-term debt. If we are able to reach a net leverage ratio near 3x as a
result of these transactions, we expect to review our capital allocation strategy to ensure we are appropriately balancing the benefits of further deleveraging with other uses for excess
cash.
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Lower Debt Service Obligations
In March 2017, the Guarantee Fees payable to Time Warner as credit guarantor of our currently outstanding Euro Term Loans have been reduced. As a result of the transaction:
•
•
•
•
•
Our weighted average borrowing cost immediately decreased 150 basis points to 7.25%, and decreased another 125 basis points to 6.00% in October 2017 when the net leverage ratio
decreased below 6x.
The all-in rate now applicable to all currently outstanding senior term credit facilities automatically improves to 5.0% when our net leverage ratio is less than 5x.
Our cost of borrowing will decrease 50 basis points if the total of outstanding senior term credit facilities is reduced below €815 million, subject to certain adjustments for specified
debt repayments, by September 30, 2018.
There is a minimum level of cash-pay interest and related Guarantee Fees totaling 5% applicable to all Euro Term Loans.
There were no changes to our existing debt prepayment rights and no changes to the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility.
On February 5, 2018 we entered into an amendment to the 2018 Euro Term Loan that extended the maturity date from November 1, 2018 to May 1, 2019.
Divestment Transaction to Accelerate Deleveraging
On July 9, 2017, we agreed to sell our operations in Croatia and Slovenia to Slovenia Broadband S.à r.l., a subsidiary of United Group B.V. (“United Group”), subject to obtaining regulatory
approvals and other customary closing conditions. On November 14, 2017 the Croatian Agency for Electronic Media (“CAEM”) published a decision that the acquisition by the Purchaser is not
permitted under the Croatian Act on Electronic Media due to certain cross ownership restrictions that CAEM believes to be applicable to the Divestment Transaction. Following a sale by the
United Group of certain assets in Croatia to address this cross ownership restriction cited by CAEM, it has reapplied for approval from CAEM.
Total cash consideration for the transaction is EUR 230.0 million (approximately US$ 275.8 million), subject to customary working capital adjustments. Upon closing, the proceeds will be used
to repay the remaining balance of the 2018 Euro Term Loan in full, and we expect to use the remaining proceeds to repay the Commitment Fee and a portion of the 2019 Euro Term Loan and
related accrued Guarantee Fees. These repayments would significantly decrease our indebtedness and our net leverage ratio, and upon repayment of debt following the closing of this transaction,
we expect our average borrowing cost on our senior debt would decrease to 4.5%. Had the transaction closed on December 31, 2017, CME’s net leverage ratio would have fallen from 5.4x to
4.6x as a result of the repayment of debt.
Free Cash Flow and Unlevered Free Cash Flow from Continuing Operations
Net cash generated from continuing operating activities
$
Capital expenditures, net
Free cash flow
Cash paid for interest (including mandatory cash-pay Guarantee
Fees)
Cash paid for Guarantee Fees that may be paid in kind
Unlevered free cash flow from continuing operations
$
(1) Number is not meaningful.
Cash and cash equivalents
For The Year Ended December 31, (US$ 000's)
2017
95,321 $
(24,742)
70,579
40,619
1,735
112,933 $
2016
59,387
(22,201)
37,186
50,611
7,464
95,261
Movement
60.5 % $
(11.4)%
89.8 %
(19.7)%
(76.8)%
18.6 % $
2016
59,387 $
(22,201)
37,186
50,611
7,464
95,261 $
2015
79,580
(23,563)
56,017
14,976
—
70,993
Movement
(25.4)%
5.8 %
(33.6)%
NM (1)
NM (1)
34.2 %
December 31, 2017
$
54,903 $
December 31, 2016
40,606
Movement
35.2%
Our unlevered free cash flow increased in 2017 reflecting higher cash collections from revenue growth, which was partially offset by higher cash spending on content as well as higher cash paid
for income taxes and capital expenditures. Free cash flow increased significantly more than unlevered free cash flow due to a significant decrease in cash paid for interest and accrued Guarantee
Fees.
Due to the significant increase in cash generated by the business, on August 1, 2017, we elected to repay EUR 50.0 million (approximately US$ 59.1 million at August 1, 2017 rates) of the
outstanding principal balance of the 2018 Euro Term Loan, and on February 6, 2018 we repaid an additional EUR 50.0 million (approximately US$ 61.6 million at February 6, 2018 rates). We
ended 2017 with cash of US$ 54.9 million and from the beginning of 2018 we have access to another US$ 50.0 million of liquidity provided by the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility, which
remains undrawn.
18
Index
Market Information
After adjusting for inflation, we estimate that during 2017, GDP grew in each of the countries in which we operate at a rate that exceeded the average growth rate of the developed markets. In
this respect, "developed markets" refers to a combined group of 11 countries from within the European Union, predominantly from Western Europe, and the United States. Romania continued to
be one of the fastest growing economies in the European Union as increases to average wages have provided support for higher disposable income, however higher inflation and uncertainty
regarding fiscal policy there are expected to slightly reduce growth in 2018. Similar to the last few years, it has been reported that GDP growth in our markets has been less reliant on growth in
exports, and domestic demand has played a larger role in economic expansion. Consumer confidence remains strong in the Czech and Slovak Republics, reflecting historically low rates of
unemployment in those countries.
On March 29, 2017, the United Kingdom formally initiated the process to leave the European Union, commonly referred to as “Brexit”, triggering a two-year period to finalize the terms of that
separation. While the negotiations over the exact terms of Brexit may negatively impact economic growth in the UK and Europe, the contribution of domestic demand as a component of GDP
growth has reduced the sensitivity of our markets to external shocks affecting exports. Additionally, we have not seen an appreciable impact on the behavior of advertisers in the countries in
which we operate since the UK electorate voted in favor of Brexit in June 2016.
On April 6, 2017, the Czech National Bank determined that the recent increase in inflation in the country was sustainable and its mandate for price stability had been met. As a result, it ended its
commitment to intervene in currency markets and withdrew the floor related to the EUR/CZK exchange rate. Following the announcement, the Czech Koruna has since strengthened more than
15% against the dollar, also reflecting appreciation of the Euro versus the dollar. If the currency continues to appreciate, this will improve the results of our largest operation in dollar terms.
Moderate inflationary pressures are expected in 2018 due to tighter labor market conditions, and the ECB is expected to begin winding down quantitative easing measures. As a result,
incremental interest rate rises are expected in the Czech Republic and Romania. Even with this, analysts estimate that GDP growth in the countries in which we operate will continue to outpace
that of the developed markets in 2018. We believe the growth in real private consumption forecast for 2018 will support overall growth in the television advertising markets across the four
countries where we continue to operate.
Over the long-term, we believe that the convergence of GDP per capita in our markets with that of the developed markets will continue as economic conditions improve and sustained periods of
higher growth continue. The higher rates of economic growth compared to the developed markets should result in even higher rates of growth in advertising spending, which is driven by a
number of factors:
•
•
•
•
Per capita nominal GDP at purchasing power parity in our markets remains approximately half that of the developed markets;
Total advertising spend per capita remains around 10% of levels in the developed markets;
The ratio of total advertising spend per capita to nominal GDP per capita, also known as advertising intensity, was approximately a third that of the developed markets in 2017; and
In the markets in which we operate, basic products such as food, beverages and household cleaning supplies comprise the main source of advertising revenues, whereas in the
developed markets, the marketing of premium products, including finance, automotive, entertainment and travel products, makes up the majority of current television advertising
spending.
Since television was commercialized in our markets at the same time as other forms of media, television advertising generally accounts for a higher proportion of total advertising spend than in
the developed markets, where newspapers, magazines and radio were established as advertising media well before the advent of television. And contrary to trends in developed markets,
television advertising spend as a percentage of total advertising spend has grown in our markets during recent years.
We believe that television advertising will continue to hold its share of total advertising spend in our markets because of its greater reach and effective measurement, which makes this medium
more appealing to advertisers. Television is especially attractive to advertisers because it delivers high reach at low cost compared to other forms of media. More recently, internet advertising
has grown at the expense of print and outdoor advertising, and we offer additional advertising opportunities when clients seek to complement their television campaigns with campaigns online.
While spending for digital advertising is expected to overtake spending on television in the near-term in the developed markets, we believe the strength of television as an advertising medium in
our markets will continue for the foreseeable future.
The following table sets out our estimates of television advertising spending net of discounts by country (in US$ millions) for the years set forth below:
Country
Bulgaria
Czech Republic
Romania*
Slovak Republic
Total CME Markets
Growth rate
* Romania market excludes Moldova.
Source: CME estimates, using the 2017 average exchange rate for all periods presented above.
$
$
2017
105
313
245
144
807
$
$
2016
101
303
218
138
760
$
$
2015
97
292
193
128
710
6%
7%
7%
On a constant currency basis, we estimate television advertising spending in our markets increased by 6% in 2017 compared to the previous year. In Bulgaria, the market increased 4% as we
estimate all broadcasters increased their average prices, while overall GRPs sold were flat. In the Czech Republic, market growth of 4% was driven by higher average prices. In Romania, the
market grew 12% because the increase in demand for advertising that started in 2016 also led to significant increases in average prices in 2017. In the Slovak Republic, the market grew 4% due
to higher average prices while inventory sold in 2017 was flat compared to last year following the end of spending on informational and political campaigns that took place during the first half
of 2016. If this spending on informational and political campaigns is excluded, we estimate the market grew 9% in the Slovak Republic in 2017.
19
Index
Segment Performance
Bulgaria
Czech Republic
Romania
Slovak Republic
Intersegment revenues
Total Net Revenues
(1) Number is not meaningful.
Bulgaria
Czech Republic
Romania
Slovak Republic
Eliminations
Total operating segments
Corporate
Total OIBDA
(1) Number is not meaningful.
Bulgaria
2017
77,341 $
209,041
191,244
97,721
(1,135)
574,212 $
2016
72,651
190,372
172,951
90,549
(349)
526,174
2017
16,841 $
83,600
74,435
24,742
(8)
199,610
(34,078)
165,532 $
2016
12,242
77,018
62,016
15,947
5
167,228
(30,320)
136,908
$
$
$
$
Television advertising
Carriage fees and subscriptions
Other
Net revenues
Costs charged in arriving at
OIBDA
OIBDA
$
$
2017
53,446
19,462
4,433
77,341
60,500
16,841
$
$
2016
49,111
18,703
4,837
72,651
60,409
12,242
NET REVENUES
For The Year Ended December 31, (US$ 000's)
Movement
% Act
% Lfl
6.5%
9.8%
10.6%
7.9%
NM (1)
9.1%
$
3.7%
3.5%
9.5%
4.7%
NM (1)
5.5%
$
2016
72,651 $
190,372
172,951
90,549
(349)
526,174 $
2015
73,090
182,636
157,578
84,434
(1,543)
496,195
OIBDA
For The Year Ended December 31, (US$ 000's)
Movement
% Act
37.6 %
8.5 %
20.0 %
55.2 %
% Lfl
34.9 %
1.3 %
19.7 %
47.4 %
NM (1)
NM (1)
19.4 %
(12.4)%
20.9 %
14.9 %
(7.5)%
16.5 %
$
$
2016
12,242 $
77,018
62,016
15,947
5
167,228
(30,320)
136,908 $
2015
15,479
71,697
41,176
10,585
26
138,963
(29,521)
109,442
For the Year Ended December 31, (US$ 000's)
Movement
% Act
% Lfl
8.8 %
4.1 %
(8.4)%
6.5 %
0.2 %
37.6 %
6.0 %
1.5 %
(10.8)%
3.7 %
(2.6)%
34.9 %
$
$
2016
49,111
18,703
4,837
72,651
60,409
12,242
$
$
2015
50,717
17,853
4,520
73,090
57,611
15,479
Movement
% Act
% Lfl
(0.6)%
4.2 %
9.8 %
7.2 %
NM (1)
6.0 %
Movement
% Act
(20.9)%
7.4 %
50.6 %
50.7 %
NM (1)
20.3 %
(2.7)%
25.1 %
(0.3)%
3.5 %
11.3 %
7.5 %
NM (1)
6.3 %
% Lfl
(20.7)%
6.2 %
51.7 %
47.8 %
NM (1)
19.8 %
(2.7)%
24.4 %
Movement
% Act
% Lfl
(3.2)%
4.8 %
7.0 %
(0.6)%
4.9 %
(20.9)%
(3.0)%
5.3 %
7.2 %
(0.3)%
5.1 %
(20.7)%
OIBDA margin
21.8%
16.9%
4.9 p.p.
5.1 p.p.
16.9%
21.2%
(4.3) p.p.
(4.3) p.p.
The television advertising market in Bulgaria increased an estimated 4% at constant rates in 2017 compared to 2016.
Our television advertising revenues increased at constant rates in 2017 compared to 2016 due to higher average prices for the year. Carriage fees and subscription revenues increased slightly at
constant rates due to continued efforts to secure new contracts with cable, satellite and IPTV operators with improved pricing. The decrease in other revenues related to lower spending placed
with the radio business.
Television advertising revenues declined slightly in 2016 compared to 2015 as an increase in the volume of GRPs sold was more than offset by lower average prices, which were negatively
impacted due to significant discounting by the competition seeking market share. Carriage fees and subscription revenues increased because the number of cable, satellite and IPTV subscribers
grew during the course of the year and a distribution agreement was renewed at higher prices during the third quarter of 2016.
Costs charged in arriving at OIBDA decreased at constant rates in 2017 compared to 2016 due primarily to a significant bad debt charge in the comparative period. Content costs were flat, as
higher spending on popular programming was offset by savings in sports rights.
On a constant currency basis, costs increased at constant rates in 2016 compared to 2015 due primarily to a US$ 3.4 million bad debt charge related to our decision to cease cooperation with one
agency during the fourth quarter of 2016 and instead started working directly with the clients that agency represented. Content costs decreased, which was driven by savings in foreign acquired
programming that more than offset a slight increase in sports rights.
20
Index
Czech Republic
For the Year Ended December 31, (US$ 000's)
Movement
Movement
2017
2016
% Act
% Lfl
2016
2015
% Act
% Lfl
Television advertising
$
188,373
$
172,392
Carriage fees and subscriptions
Other
Net revenues
Costs
OIBDA
charged in arriving at
12,141
8,527
209,041
125,441
OIBDA
$
83,600
$
10,325
7,655
190,372
113,354
77,018
9.3%
17.6%
11.4%
9.8%
10.7%
8.5%
3.0%
11.6%
3.1%
3.5%
5.0%
1.3%
$
172,392
$
166,158
10,325
7,655
190,372
113,354
$
77,018
$
7,176
9,302
182,636
110,939
71,697
3.8 %
43.9 %
(17.7)%
4.2 %
2.2 %
7.4 %
3.0 %
43.0 %
(18.1)%
3.5 %
1.7 %
6.2 %
OIBDA margin
40.0%
40.5%
(0.5) p.p.
(0.9) p.p.
40.5%
39.3%
1.2 p.p.
1.1 p.p.
The television advertising market in the Czech Republic increased an estimated 4% at constant rates in 2017 compared to 2016.
Our television advertising revenues increased at constant rates in 2017 compared to 2016 due to higher average prices, which more than offset a slight decrease in GRPs sold. Carriage fees and
subscription revenues increased due primarily to additional contracts for Nova International that became effective late in 2016.
In 2016, advertisers bought more GRPs compared to 2015 resulting in higher television advertising revenues, however our average price for advertising was lower due to significant discounting
by the competition to sell incremental inventory provided by channels they launched late in 2015. Carriage fees and subscription revenues increased due to high definition versions of our
channels that were available exclusively on cable and satellite platforms for the entire year, as well as the contribution from launching NOVA SPORT 2 in late 2015 and NOVA
INTERNATIONAL in early 2016.
Costs charged in arriving at OIBDA in 2017 increased on a constant currency basis compared to 2016 due primarily to an increase in content costs, as higher quality productions and additional
local fiction in the schedule this year compared to 2016 was partially offset by less expensive acquired content as well as lower transmission and consultancy costs.
On a constant currency basis, costs increased slightly in 2016 on a constant currency basis compared to 2015 due to an increase in content costs. Additional spending to introduce several
entertainment formats in the program grid during 2016 was mostly offset by savings in local fiction, foreign acquired programming, and other non-programming costs.
21
Index
Romania
For the Year Ended December 31, (US$ 000's)
Movement
Movement
2017
2016
% Act
Television advertising
$
143,693
$
128,814
Carriage fees and subscriptions
Other
Net revenues
Costs charged in arriving at
OIBDA
44,032
3,519
191,244
116,809
OIBDA
$
74,435
$
40,202
3,935
172,951
110,935
62,016
11.6 %
9.5 %
(10.6)%
10.6 %
5.3 %
20.0 %
% Lfl
10.3 %
8.8 %
(12.0)%
9.5 %
3.8 %
19.7 %
2016
2015
% Act
% Lfl
$
128,814
$
113,460
40,202
3,935
172,951
110,935
$
62,016
$
40,292
3,826
157,578
116,402
41,176
13.5 %
(0.2)%
2.8 %
9.8 %
(4.7)%
50.6 %
14.9 %
1.5 %
4.2 %
11.3 %
(3.2)%
51.7 %
OIBDA margin
38.9%
35.9%
3.0 p.p.
3.3 p.p.
35.9%
26.1%
9.8 p.p.
9.6 p.p.
The television advertising market in Romania increased an estimated 12% at constant rates in 2017 compared to 2016.
Our television advertising revenues increased at constant rates in 2017 compared to 2016 due to higher prices. The market continued to be largely sold out in 2017, reflecting sustained strong
demand for advertising as clients invested more in campaigns to improve their competitive positions. Carriage fees and subscription revenues grew on a constant currency basis during 2017 due
to an increase in the number of reported subscribers.
In 2016, fiscal stimulus was believed to have improved consumer confidence and spending, which helped increase demand for advertising on television during the course of the year. We fully
monetized additional inventory generated by our main channel compared to 2015, which led to a higher sell-out rate in 2016. Contributing to this was the broadcasting of UEFA European
Championship matches in the second and third quarters. Since we sold more GRPs at significantly higher prices, our television advertising revenues increased. Carriage fees and subscription
revenues grew slightly on a constant currency basis due to an increase in the number of cable and satellite subscribers.
Costs charged in arriving at OIBDA in 2017 increased at constant rates compared to 2016 . Content costs increased, as we invested more in local productions of entertainment formats as well as
local fiction, which more than offset savings from sports rights. Non-programming costs also increased, primarily as a result of higher staff costs and professional fees, which more than offset
lower transmission costs.
On a constant currency basis, costs decreased in 2016 compared to 2015 as non-programming costs declined due to lower bad debts and professional fees, savings from restructuring efforts, and
lower transmission costs. This more than offset an increase in content costs as we invested more in the schedule to generate additional inventory, which included the costs associated with
broadcasting UEFA European Championship matches.
22
Index
Slovak Republic
2017
Television advertising
$
85,715
$
Carriage fees and subscriptions
Other
Net revenues
Costs charged in arriving at
OIBDA
OIBDA
$
7,597
4,409
97,721
72,979
24,742
$
2016
84,779
2,101
3,669
90,549
74,602
15,947
For the Year Ended December 31, (US$ 000's)
Movement
% Act
% Lfl
2016
1.1 %
(1.9)%
$
84,779
$
NM (1)
NM (1)
20.2 %
7.9 %
(2.2)%
55.2 %
15.2 %
4.7 %
(4.7)%
47.4 %
$
2,101
3,669
90,549
74,602
15,947
$
2015
79,135
1,324
3,975
84,434
73,849
10,585
Movement
% Act
% Lfl
7.1 %
58.7 %
(7.7)%
7.2 %
1.0 %
50.7 %
7.4 %
59.0 %
(7.5)%
7.5 %
1.6 %
47.8 %
OIBDA margin
(1) Number is not meaningful.
25.3%
17.6%
7.7 p.p.
7.3 p.p.
17.6%
12.5%
5.1 p.p.
4.8 p.p.
The television advertising market in the Slovak Republic increased an estimated 4% at constant rates in 2017 compared to 2016.
Our television advertising revenues decreased on a constant currency basis during 2017 compared to 2016 from selling fewer GRPs as our audience share was affected by the lower reach for our
channels, which have been distributed exclusively on cable, satellite and IPTV platforms since the start of 2017. Demand for GRPs was also lower in 2017 compared to 2016 due to spending on
informational and political campaigns in the first half of 2016 that was not repeated in 2017. If this spending is excluded, our television advertising revenues were flat at constant rates in 2017 as
higher prices offset fewer GRPs sold. The change in the way our channels are distributed resulted in a significant increase in carriage fees and subscriptions revenue, as well as a cost reduction
from significantly lower transmission costs.
In 2016, television advertising revenues grew compared to 2015 due primarily to higher prices, reflecting strong demand for advertising on television while the market remained largely sold-
out. Fewer GRPs were sold in 2016 compared to 2015, which reduced the benefit of the increase in prices. Carriage fees and subscription revenues increased in 2016 as we entered into new
agreements with a number of carriers and launched MARKIZA INTERNATIONAL during the first quarter of 2016.
Costs charged in arriving at OIBDA in 2017 decreased compared to 2016 due to lower transmission costs, which were partially offset by an increase in content costs as we made targeted
adjustments in the programming line-up since we changed the way our channels are distributed.
On a constant currency basis, costs increased slightly in 2016 compared to 2015 due to increases in various non-programming costs. Content costs were flat year-on-year as investments in local
content were offset by savings from foreign acquired programming.
23
Index
II. Analysis of the Results of Operations and Financial Position
2017
2016
% Act
% Lfl
2016
2015
% Act
% Lfl
For The Year Ended December 31, (US$ 000's)
Movement
Movement
Revenue:
Television advertising
$
Carriage fees and subscriptions
Other revenue
Net Revenues
Operating expenses:
Content costs
Other operating costs
Depreciation of property, plant
and equipment
Amortization of intangibles
Cost of revenues
Selling, general and
administrative expenses
Restructuring costs
Operating income
$
Revenue:
471,227 $
83,232
19,753
574,212
254,061
49,864
26,991
8,592
339,508
104,755
—
129,949 $
435,096
71,331
19,747
526,174
238,063
54,949
23,106
8,270
324,388
96,254
—
105,532
8.3 %
16.7 %
0.0 %
9.1 %
6.7 %
(9.3)%
16.8 %
3.9 %
4.7 %
8.8 %
— %
23.1 %
4.5 %
14.5 %
(4.6)%
5.5 %
3.8 %
(12.2)%
12.5 %
(1.0)%
1.6 %
4.1 %
— %
18.8 %
$
$
435,096 $
71,331
19,747
526,174
238,063
54,949
23,106
8,270
324,388
96,254
—
105,532 $
409,469
66,644
20,082
496,195
227,510
55,731
21,327
12,050
316,618
89,816
1,714
88,047
6.3 %
7.0 %
(1.7)%
6.0 %
4.6 %
(1.4)%
8.3 %
(31.4)%
2.5 %
7.2 %
(100.0)%
19.9 %
6.4 %
8.2 %
(1.5)%
6.3 %
5.2 %
(1.1)%
8.5 %
(31.4)%
2.9 %
7.3 %
(100.0)%
19.4 %
Television advertising revenues: On a constant currency basis, television advertising revenues increased by 5% in 2017 compared to 2016 , while television advertising spending in our
markets is estimated to have increased by 6% . On a constant currency basis, television advertising revenues increased by 6% in 2016 compared to 2015 , while television advertising spending
in our markets is estimated to have increased by 7% .
Carriage fees and subscriptions: Carriage fees and subscription revenues increased during 2017 compared to 2016 , primarily in the Slovak Republic where our channels have been exclusively
available on cable, satellite and IPTV platforms since January 2017 and in Romania due to higher subscriber counts. Carriage fees and subscription revenues increased in 2016 compared to 2015
, primarily due to the inclusion of high definition versions of certain of our channels in our offering and the launch of additional channels in the Czech Republic. Carriage fees revenues also
increased across a number of other segments due to higher cable, satellite and IPTV subscriber counts.
Other revenues: Other revenues include primarily internet advertising revenues and revenues generated through the licensing of our own productions. Other revenues decreased during 2017
compared to 2016 due to lower internet and radio advertising and in 2016 compared to 2015 primarily due to lower license and sublicense revenues.
See "Segment Performance" above for additional information on trends in revenues.
Operating Expenses:
Content costs: Content costs (including production costs and amortization of programming rights) increased during 2017 compared to 2016 primarily due to inclusion of both more hours of
local productions in our broadcast schedules and higher quality acquired programming. Content costs increased in 2016 compared to 2015 due to including an increased volume of local
programming in our broadcast schedules as well as our broadcasting of UEFA European Championship matches in Romania.
Other operating costs: Other operating costs decreased during 2017 compared to 2016 primarily due to cost savings in the Slovak Republic following our decision not to renew our contract
for the terrestrial distribution of our channels there. Other operating costs for 2016 were broadly in line with 2015 as cost savings from lower transmission costs were offset by higher authors’
rights association charges.
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment: Depreciation of property, plant and equipment increased during 2017 compared to 2016 and in 2016 compared to 2015 due to higher capital
expenditures.
Amortization of intangibles: On a constant currency basis, total amortization of broadcast licenses and other intangibles decreased slightly during 2017 compared to 2016 primarily due to
certain intangibles in Romania becoming fully amortized, partly offset by an increase in amortization of certain of our trademarks in the Czech Republic. Amortization of intangibles decreased
in 2016 compared to 2015 , primarily due to higher amortization expense in 2015 for certain of our trademarks in Romania that we determined were no longer indefinite-lived and began
amortizing from January 1, 2015 which were subsequently divested with the sale of our Romanian studios in the fourth quarter of 2015. The lower amortization expense also reflects certain
intangible assets in Bulgaria which were fully amortized in the fourth quarter of 2015.
Selling, general and administrative expenses: Selling, general and administrative expenses increased during 2017 compared to 2016 primarily due to increased levels of staff and professional
fees, particularly in Romania, offset by decreased bad debt expense in Bulgaria. Selling, general and administrative expenses increased in 2016 compared to 2015 , primarily due to the reversal
of a charge related to certain tax audits in Romania in the third quarter of 2015 and increased bad debt in Bulgaria as we ceased cooperation with one agency during the fourth quarter of 2016
and instead started working directly with the clients that agency represented. These increases were partly offset by lower professional fees, particularly in Romania and in Corporate.
Selling, general and administrative expenses in 2017 include a charge of US$ 4.3 million in respect of non-cash stock-based compensation, an increase of US$ 0.9 million compared to 2016 (see
Item 8, Note 17, "Stock-based Compensation" ). Non-cash stock-based compensation charges were US$ 2.3 million in 2015 .
24
Index
Restructuring costs: There were no restructuring charges during 2017 or 2016 . The restructuring charges in 2015 relate to the elimination of positions according to our 2015 plan.
Operating income: Operating income increased from 2015 through 2017 largely due to increased television advertising and carriage fee revenues while maintaining effective cost control
efforts. Our operating margin, which is determined as operating income divided by net revenues, was 22.6% in 2017 , compared to 20.1% in 2016 and 17.7% in 2015 .
Other income / expense items for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 :
Interest expense
Loss on extinguishment of debt
Other non-operating income / (expense), net:
Interest income
Foreign currency exchange gain / (loss), net
Change in fair value of derivatives
Other income / (expense), net
(Provision) / credit for income taxes
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
(1) Number is not meaningful.
For The Year Ended December 31, (US$ 000's)
$
2017
(70,633) $
(101)
2016
(111,389)
(150,158)
% Act
36.6 % $
99.9 %
2016
(111,389) $
(150,158)
2015
(151,767)
—
523
17,185
(1,783)
396
(21,483)
(4,626)
341
573
7,149
(10,213)
417
(6,336)
(16,172)
306
(8.7)%
140.4 %
82.5 %
(5.0)%
NM (1)
71.4 %
11.4 %
573
7,149
(10,213)
417
(6,336)
(16,172)
306
426
(11,550)
4,848
(17,333)
1,153
(29,396)
671
% Act
26.6 %
NM (1)
34.5 %
NM (1)
NM (1)
NM (1)
NM (1)
45.0 %
(54.4)%
Interest expense: Interest expense decreased in 2017 compared to 2016 and in 2016 compared to 2015 , primarily due to lower amortization of debt discount and issuance costs following the
extinguishment of the 2017 PIK Notes and 2017 Term Loan in April 2016 and due to a lower effective interest rate on the replacement facility. Additional reductions to interest expense in 2017
compared to 2016 are due to the repricing of our Guarantee Fees in March 2017 and improvements to our net leverage (see Item 8, Note 5, "Long-term Debt and Other Financing Arrangements"
and Note 15, "Interest Expense" ).
Loss on extinguishment of debt: In 2017 , we recognized a loss on extinguishment of debt related to our prepayment of EUR 50 million (approximately US$ 59.1 million at August 1, 2017
rates) of the 2018 Euro Term Loan. In 2016 , we recognized a loss on extinguishment of debt related to the redemption and discharge of the 2017 PIK Notes, repayment of the 2017 Term Loan
and modifications of the 2018 Euro Term Loan and the 2019 Euro Term Loan, which were accounted for in a similar manner as a debt extinguishment.
Interest income: Interest income primarily reflects earnings on our cash balances and was not material.
Foreign currency exchange gain / (loss), net : We are exposed to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates on the revaluation of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in currencies other
than the local functional currency of the relevant subsidiary. This includes third party receivables and payables, as well as certain of our intercompany loans which are not considered of a long-
term investment nature. Our subsidiaries generally receive funding via loans that are denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of the lender, therefore any change in the
relevant exchange rate will require us to recognize a transaction gain or loss on revaluation. Certain of our intercompany loans are classified as long-term in nature, and therefore gains or losses
on revaluation of those loans are not recorded through the statement of operations and comprehensive income / loss. See the discussion under "Currency translation adjustment, net" below.
In 2017 , we recognized a net gain of US$ 17.2 million , comprised of transaction gains of US$ 3.5 million relating to the revaluation of intercompany loans, transaction gains of approximately
US$ 8.8 million on our long-term debt and other financing arrangements and transaction gains of US$ 4.9 million relating to the revaluation of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in
currencies other than the local functional currency of the relevant subsidiary.
In 2016 , we recognized a net gain of US$ 7.1 million , comprised of transaction gains of US$ 38.1 million relating to the revaluation of intercompany loans, transaction losses of approximately
US$ 28.4 million on our long-term debt and other financing arrangements and transaction losses of US$ 2.6 million relating to the revaluation of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in
currencies other than the local functional currency of the relevant subsidiary.
In 2015 , we recognized a net loss of US$ 11.6 million , comprised of transaction losses of US$ 29.7 million relating to the revaluation of intercompany loans, transaction gains of approximately
US$ 31.5 million on our long-term debt and other financing arrangements and transaction losses of US$ 13.4 million relating to the revaluation of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in
currencies other than the local functional currency of the relevant subsidiary.
Change in fair value of derivatives: During 2017 , we recognized losses as a result of the change in fair value of our USD/EUR foreign currency forward contracts entered into on January 31,
2017, May 16, 2017 and July 21, 2017 as well as the interest rate swaps we use as hedging instruments for interest payments on the 2018 Euro Term Loan. During 2016 , we recognized a net
loss primarily due to a loss on USD/EUR foreign currency forward contracts entered into in connection with the refinancing of the 2017 PIK Notes and 2017 Term Loan. During 2015 , we
recognized a net gain primarily as a result of a gain on a foreign currency forward contract entered into in connection with the refinancing of the 2015 Convertible Notes at maturity, which was
partly offset by losses on certain other foreign currency forward contracts relating to certain dollar-denominated programming payments made in 2015. See Item 8, Note 14, "Financial
Instruments and Fair Value Measurements" .
Other income / (expense), net : Other income / expense was not material in 2017 or 2016 . Other income / expense in 2015 was primarily due to the loss on sale of the parent company of our
former Romanian studio operation, which did not meet the definition of a discontinued operation, and on the loss on sale of an excess facility in Bulgaria.
25
Index
(Provision) / credit for income taxes : The provision for income taxes during 2017 is principally comprised of tax charges on profits in the Czech Republic, Romania and the Slovak Republic.
The provision for income taxes during 2016 reflects tax charges on profits in the Czech Republic and Romania offset by the release of the valuation allowances in Bulgaria and the Slovak
Republic.
The credit for income taxes during 2015 reflects the release of a valuation allowance in Romania offset by deferred tax charges on profits in the Czech Republic.
Our operating subsidiaries are subject to income taxes at statutory rates of 10.0% in Bulgaria, 16% in Romania, 19% in the Czech Republic and 21.0% in the Slovak Republic (see Item 8, Note
18, "Income Taxes" ).
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax : Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax for 2017 , 2016 and 2015 is primarily comprised of the operational results of the Croatia and
Slovenia segments including the allocation of interest expense and Guarantee Fees from the 2018 Euro Term Loan and transaction costs. Additional impact in 2015 is the result of the sale of our
Romanian studios, cinema, music, radio and distribution businesses. See Item 8, Note 3, "Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale" .
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests : The results attributable to noncontrolling interests relate to the noncontrolling interest share of the comprehensive profits and losses in our
Bulgaria operations.
Other comprehensive income / loss:
Currency translation adjustment, net
Unrealized gain / (loss) on derivative instruments
(1) Number is not meaningful.
For The Year Ended December 31, (US$ 000's)
2017
$
54,368
$
1,269
2016
1,649
(3,031)
% Act
NM (1) $
NM (1)
2016
1,649 $
(3,031)
2015
(89,714)
(839)
% Act
NM (1)
NM (1)
Currency translation adjustment, net: The underlying equity value of our investments (which are denominated in the functional currency of the relevant entity) are converted into dollars at
each balance sheet date, with any change in value of the underlying assets and liabilities being recorded as a currency translation adjustment to the balance sheet rather than net income / loss.
Other comprehensive income / loss due to currency translation adjustment, net comprised the following for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 :
Foreign exchange gain on intercompany loans
Foreign exchange gain / (loss) on the Series B Preferred Shares
Currency translation adjustment
Currency translation adjustment, net
(1) Number is not meaningful.
For The Year Ended December 31, (US$ 000's)
2017
11,326
$
33,444
9,598
54,368
$
2016
8,848
(19,412)
12,213
1,649
$
$
% Act
28.0 % $
NM (1)
(21.4)%
NM (1)
$
2016
8,848 $
(19,412)
12,213
1,649 $
2015
(88,997)
—
(717)
(89,714)
% Act
NM (1)
NM (1)
NM (1)
NM (1)
Certain of our intercompany loans are denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of the lender and are considered to be of a long-term investment nature as the repayment of
these loans is neither planned nor anticipated for the foreseeable future. The foreign exchange gains / (losses) on the remeasurement of these intercompany loans to the lender's functional
currency are treated in the same manner as currency translation adjustments.
26
Index
The following charts depict the movement of the dollar versus the functional currencies of our operations, based on monthly closing rates, during 2017 , 2016 and 2015 .
Percent Change During the Year Ended December 31, 2017
Percent Change During the Year Ended December 31, 2016
27
Index
Percent Change During the Year Ended December 31, 2015
Unrealized gain / (loss) on derivative instruments : The unrealized gain / (loss) on derivatives is due to the effective portion of changes in the fair value of our interest rate swaps classified as
cash flow hedges and recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income / loss. See Item 8, Note 14, "Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measurements" .
28
Index
Summarized consolidated balance sheets as at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 :
Current assets
Non-current assets
Current liabilities
Non-current liabilities
Temporary equity
CME Ltd. shareholders’ deficit
Noncontrolling interests in consolidated subsidiaries
December 31, 2017
$
464,774 $
1,163,281
188,264
1,180,968
264,593
(5,788)
18
December 31, 2016
340,420
1,050,297
171,564
1,070,786
254,899
(107,804)
1,272
% Act
% Lfl
36.5 %
10.8 %
9.7 %
10.3 %
3.8 %
94.6 %
(98.6)%
19.2 %
(5.5)%
(4.6)%
(2.7)%
3.8 %
87.1 %
(95.5)%
Note: The analysis below is intended to highlight the key factors that led to the movements from December 31, 2016 , excluding the impact of foreign currency translation.
Current assets: Excluding the impact of assets held for sale, current assets at December 31, 2017 increased compared to December 31, 2016 due to higher cash and receivables generated from
operations and higher prepaid production expenses. The increases are partly offset by decreased program rights classified as current.
Non-current assets: Excluding the impact of assets held for sale and foreign currency translation, non-current assets at December 31, 2017 remained broadly in line compared to December 31,
2016 , as increases in both acquired and local program rights were offset by amortization of debt issuance costs, amortization of our finite-lived intangible assets and the utilization of deferred
tax assets.
Current liabilities: Excluding the impact of liabilities held for sale and foreign currency translation, current liabilities at December 31, 2017 decreased compared to December 31, 2016 ,
primarily as a result of lower accrued interest (including Guarantee Fees) payable and programming payables. The decrease was partly offset by increased income taxes payable and production-
related accruals.
Non-current liabilities: Excluding the impact of liabilities held for sale and foreign currency translation, non-current liabilities at December 31, 2017 decreased compared to December 31,
2016 , primarily due to the repayment of EUR 50.0 million (approximately US$ 59.1 million at August 1, 2017 rates) of the 2018 Euro Term Loan which is partly offset by increases in
Guarantee Fees for both the 2019 and 2021 Euro Term Loans which we elected to pay in kind (see Item 8, Note 5, "Long-term Debt and Other Financing Arrangements" ).
Temporary equity: Temporary equity at December 31, 2017 and 2016 represents the accreted value of the Series B Preferred Shares issued to TW Investor on June 25, 2013.
CME Ltd. shareholders’ deficit : CME Ltd. shareholders’ deficit decreased in 2017 . This primarily reflects a decrease in accumulated other comprehensive loss due to currency translation
adjustments and the net income attributable to CME Ltd. which was partly offset by accretion of the preferred dividend paid in kind on our Series B Preferred Shares.
Noncontrolling interests in consolidated subsidiaries: The noncontrolling interests in consolidated subsidiaries represents the noncontrolling interest share of our Bulgaria operations.
29
Index
III. Liquidity and Capital Resources
III(a) Summary of Cash Flows
Cash and cash equivalents increased by US$ 14.3 million during 2017 . The change in cash and cash equivalents for the periods presented below is summarized as follows:
Net cash generated from continuing operating activities
Net cash used in continuing investing activities
Net cash used in continuing financing activities
Net cash (used in) / provided by discontinued operations
Impact of exchange rate fluctuations on cash
Net increase / (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
Operating Activities
For The Year Ended December 31, (US$ 000's)
$
$
2017
95,321
$
(24,742)
(58,154)
(8,573)
10,445
14,297
$
2016
59,387 $
(22,201)
(22,472)
(32,108)
(1,120)
(18,514) $
2015
79,580
(23,563)
(28,643)
4,753
(1,851)
30,276
The increase in cash generated from continuing operations during 2017 as compared to 2016 reflects higher cash collections from revenue growth and a significant decrease in cash paid for
interest and Guarantee Fees which are partly offset by higher cash paid for programming and taxes. In 2016, we paid accrued interest related to the 2017 PIK Notes and 2017 Term Loan when
they were refinanced in April 2016 and we also repaid US$ 5.5 million of accrued Guarantee Fees which were previously paid in kind.
The decrease in cash generated from continuing operations during 2016 as compared to 2015 reflects higher revenue and OIBDA offset by higher cash payments for interest and for Guarantee
Fees including Guarantee Fees previously paid in kind.
We paid cash interest (including in respect of Guarantee Fees) of US$ 42.3 million , US$ 58.1 million and US$ 15.0 million on our long-term debt and credit facilities in 2017 , 2016 and 2015 ,
respectively.
Investing Activities
Net cash used in continuing investing activities consists primarily of capital expenditures for property, plant and equipment.
Financing Activities
The net cash used in continuing financing activities in 2017 primarily reflected principal repayments made on our 2018 Euro Term Loan.
The net cash used in continuing financing activities in 2016 primarily reflected the refinancing of the 2017 PIK Notes and the 2017 Term Loan with the proceeds of the 2021 Euro Term Loan
and cash on hand, including payments for transaction fees and to settle a foreign currency forward contract we entered into in connection with the refinancing. We received proceeds of US$ 7.0
million from the exercise of common stock warrants.
The net cash used in continuing financing activities in 2015 primarily reflected the repayment of the amounts outstanding under the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility and the refinancing of the
2015 Convertible Notes with the 2019 Euro Term Loan. We also received net proceeds of US$ 8.0 million from a foreign currency forward contract we entered into in connection with the
refinancing of the 2015 Convertible Notes.
Discontinued Operations
The net cash used in discontinued operations during 2017 and 2016 primarily reflected the cash flows of our Croatia and Slovenia operations, including the payment of Guarantee Fees and
interest related to the 2018 Euro Term Loan. The net cash provided by discontinued operations during 2015 primarily reflected proceeds from the divestiture of our non-core businesses in
Romania. See Item 8, Note 3, "Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale" .
III(b) Sources and Uses of Cash
Our ongoing source of cash is primarily the receipt of payments from advertisers, advertising agencies and distributors of our television channels. We also have available the 2021 Revolving
Credit Facility (see Item 8, Note 5, "Long-term Debt and Other Financing Arrangements" ). As at December 31, 2017 , the aggregate principal amount available under the 2021 Revolving
Credit Facility, which was undrawn, was US$ 115.0 million, which was reduced to US$ 50.0 million on January 1, 2018. Surplus cash, after funding ongoing operations, may be remitted to us,
where appropriate, by our subsidiaries in the form of debt interest payments and capital repayments, dividends, and other distributions and loans from our subsidiaries.
Corporate law in the Central and Eastern European countries in which we operate stipulates generally that dividends may be declared by shareholders out of yearly profits subject to the
maintenance of registered capital, required reserves (if applicable) and after the recovery of accumulated losses. The reserve requirement restriction generally provides that before dividends may
be distributed, a portion of annual net profits (typically at least 5% ) be allocated to a reserve, which reserve is capped at a proportion of the registered capital of a company (ranging from 5% to
20% ). There are no third-party restrictions that limit our subsidiaries' ability to transfer amounts to us in the form of loans or advances.
30
Index
III(c) Contractual Obligations, Commitments and Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
Our future contractual obligations as at December 31, 2017 were as follows:
Long-term debt – principal
Long-term debt – interest
Unconditional purchase obligations
Operating leases
Capital lease obligations
Other long-term obligations
Total contractual obligations
Payments due by period (US$ 000’s)
Total
Less than 1 year
1,085,289
$
240,819
(1)
$
229,723
100,413
6,385
9,878
29,152
1,460,840
$
58,699
34,581
2,830
3,238
14,983
355,150
$
1-3 years
282,238 $
112,411
46,610
1,132
5,344
13,857
461,592 $
$
$
More than 5 years
3-5 years
562,232 $
58,613
15,664
695
1,296
300
638,800 $
—
—
3,558
1,728
—
12
5,298
(1) On February 5, 2018, we entered into an amendment to extend the maturity date of the 2018 Euro Term Loan from November 1, 2018 to May 1, 2019. On February 6, 2018, we paid EUR
50.0 million (approximately US$ 61.6 million at February 6, 2018 rates) of the outstanding principal balance of the 2018 Euro Term Loan (see Item 8, Note 24, "Subsequent Events" ).
Long-Term Debt
For more information on our long-term debt, see Item 8, Note 5, "Long-term Debt and Other Financing Arrangements" . Interest payable on our long-term debt is calculated using interest rates
and exchange rates as at December 31, 2017 . For the purposes of the above table, it is assumed that the Guarantee Fees will be paid in kind at each interest payment date until the maturity dates
of the related Euro Term Loan. However, we intend to allocate a portion of excess cash towards paying the Guarantee Fees related to the 2018 Euro Term Loan in cash rather than electing to
pay any portion in kind. Amounts paid in kind are included under "Long-term debt - interest".
Unconditional Purchase Obligations
Unconditional purchase obligations primarily comprise future programming commitments. At December 31, 2017 , we had commitments in respect of future programming of US$ 99.1 million .
This includes contracts signed with license periods starting after December 31, 2017 .
Operating Leases
For more information on our operating lease commitments see Item 8, Note 21, "Commitments and Contingencies" .
Other Long-Term Obligations
Other long-term obligations are primarily comprised of digital transmission commitments.
Other
Top Tone Media Holdings Limited has exercised its right to acquire additional equity in CME Bulgaria. However, the closing of this transaction has not yet occurred because purchaser
financing is still pending. If consummated, we would own 90.0% of our Bulgaria broadcast operations. The option strike price is the fair value of the equity in CME Bulgaria, as determined by
an independent valuation.
31
Index
III(d) Cash Outlook
Because cash flows from operating activities were negative from 2012 to 2014, we relied on equity and debt financings to ensure adequate funding for our operations. Our cash flow from
operating activities has been positive since 2015 and improved further year-on-year in 2017. We expect our unlevered free cash flow to grow in 2018 as a result of further improvement in our
operating results. Following the refinancing and repricing transactions in 2016 and 2017, our cost of borrowing has continued to decrease. In 2016, there were also non-repeating payments that
were made when we elected to repay in cash accrued Guarantee Fees related to the 2018 Euro Term Loan that were previously paid in kind and the payment of accrued interest on the 2017 PIK
Notes and 2017 Term Loan when they were refinanced. As a result, the total amount of cash paid for interest and Guarantee Fees (including payments allocated to discontinued operations)
decreased by US$ 31.7 million in 2017.
We are obliged to pay 5.0% of the all-in rate comprising interest and Guarantee Fees related to the 2018 Euro Term Loan, 2019 Euro Term Loan and 2021 Euro Term Loan in cash and have the
option to pay the remainder of any Guarantee Fees in kind. When our net leverage (as defined in the Reimbursement Agreement) falls below 5.0x, our all-in rate will be 5.0%, which will be
payable in cash. As at December 31, 2017 , we have repaid in cash all accrued Guarantee Fees related to the 2018 Euro Term Loan that were previously paid in kind and intend to continue to
make payments of such Guarantee Fees in cash when due, rather than electing to pay in kind. To maximize our near term cash flow, we may continue to pay a portion of Guarantee Fees related
to 2019 Euro Term Loan and 2021Euro Term Loan in kind, where possible.
As at December 31, 2017 , we had US$ 54.9 million in cash and cash equivalents. In August 2017, we repaid EUR 50.0 million (approximately US$ 59.1 million at August 1, 2017 rates) of the
outstanding principal balance of the 2018 Euro Term Loan with cash on hand. On February 5, 2018, we entered into an amendment to extend the maturity date of the 2018 Euro Term Loan from
November 1, 2018 to May 1, 2019. Consequently, our nearest debt maturity is now May 1, 2019. On February 6, 2018, we paid EUR 50.0 million (approximately US$ 61.6 million at February
6, 2018 rates) of the outstanding principal balance of the 2018 Euro Term Loan (see Item 8, Note 24, "Subsequent Events" ). We anticipate using excess cash, including free cash flow from the
business, expected proceeds from the Divestment Transaction and expected proceeds from warrant exercises, to repay the remaining principal balance of the 2018 Euro Term Loan in full before
it matures in May 2019 and start repaying the accrued Guarantee Fees and the Commitment Fee, previously paid in kind, as well as the principal balance related to the 2019 Euro Term Loan. In
the event that the Divestment Transaction does not close or we do not receive the expected warrant proceeds, we expect to be able to substantially repay the 2018 Euro Term Loan from cash
generated from the business and available liquidity upon maturity. We are also continuing to evaluate possibilities to further deleverage the business and may also seek public or private debt
financing transactions to further improve our capital structure.
In addition, while we expect our unlevered free cash flow to grow due to continuous improvement in our operating results, we anticipate the amounts of cash paid for income taxes will continue
to increase in 2018 and to further converge with local statutory tax rates as our operating companies in each jurisdiction have returned to generating profits and previous net operating losses are
utilized.
Credit ratings and future debt issuances
Our corporate credit is rated B2 by Moody's Investors Service with a positive outlook and B+ by Standard & Poor's (currently on CreditWatch with developing implications due to the
Divestment Transaction). Our ratings show each agency's opinion of our financial strength, operating performance and ability to meet our debt obligations as they become due. These ratings
take into account the particular emphasis the ratings agencies place on metrics such as leverage ratio and cash flow, which they use as measurements of a company's liquidity and financial
strength. They also reflect an emphasis by the ratings agencies on the track record of strong financial support from Time Warner. We may be subject to downgrades if our operating performance
deteriorates or we fail to maintain adequate levels of liquidity. In addition, our ratings may be downgraded if the agencies form a view that material support from Time Warner is not as strong,
or the strategic importance of CME to Time Warner is not as significant as it has been in the past.
Credit risk of financial counterparties
We have entered into a number of significant contracts with financial counterparties as follows:
Interest Rate Swap
We are party to interest rate swap agreements to mitigate our exposure to interest rate fluctuations on our Euro Term Loans. These interest rate swaps, certain of which are designated as cash
flow hedges, provide the Company with variable-rate cash receipts in exchange for fixed-rate payments over the lives of the agreements, with no exchange of the underlying notional amount.
Foreign Exchange Forwards
We are exposed to movements in the USD to EUR exchange rates related to contractual payments under dollar-denominated agreements. To reduce this exposure, from time to time we enter
into pay-Euro receive-dollar forward foreign exchange contracts. We had no such agreements outstanding at December 31, 2017.
Cash Deposits
We may deposit cash in the global money markets with a range of bank counterparties and review the counterparties we choose regularly. The maximum period of deposit is three months but
we have more recently held amounts on deposit for shorter periods, mainly overnight. The credit rating of a bank is a critical factor in determining the size of cash deposits and we will only
deposit cash with banks of investment grade rating. In addition we also closely monitor the credit default swap spreads and other market information for each of the banks with which we
consider depositing or have deposited funds.
III(e) Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
None.
32
Index
IV. Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Our accounting policies affecting our financial condition and results of operations are more fully described in Item 8, Note 2, "Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting
Policies" . The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make judgments in selecting appropriate assumptions for calculating financial estimates, which inherently contain some
degree of uncertainty. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable. Using these estimates we make judgments about the
carrying amounts of assets and liabilities and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates
under different assumptions or conditions.
We believe the following critical accounting policies affect our more significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements.
Program Rights
Program rights consist of programming (film and television) acquired from third parties and produced locally, which together form an important component of our station broadcasting
schedules. Acquired program rights and the related liabilities are recorded at their gross value when the license period begins and the programs are available for use. Where the initial airing of
content allowed by a license is expected to provide more value than subsequent airings, program rights are amortized over their expected useful lives in a manner which reflects the pattern we
expect to use and benefit from the programming. These films and series are amortized with the amortization charged in respect of each airing calculated in accordance with a schedule that
reflects our estimate of the relative economic value of each run. We review our programming amortization policy when events occur or circumstances change that would so require.
The program library is evaluated at least quarterly to determine if expected revenues are sufficient to cover the unamortized portion of each program. To the extent that the revenues we expect to
earn from broadcasting a program are lower than the book value, the program rights are written down to their net realizable value by recording an impairment charge. Accordingly, our estimates
of future advertising and other revenues, and our future broadcasting schedules have a significant impact on the value of our program rights on the consolidated balance sheet and the annual
programming amortization charge recorded in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income / loss.
Produced Program Rights
We also produce and license a variety of filmed content. The majority of this is television series and movies which are predominantly expected to be utilized by transmission on our broadcast
stations. Produced program rights, which include direct costs, production overhead and development costs, are stated at the lower of cost, net of accumulated amortization, or net realizable
value.
When we recognize revenue on a title, we also recognize a proportion of the capitalized film costs in the respective statements of operations using the individual film forecast model. The
proportion of costs recognized is equal to the proportion of the revenue recognized compared to the total revenue expected to be generated throughout the title's life cycle (the "ultimate
revenues").
The process of evaluating a title's ultimate revenues requires management judgment and is inherently subjective. The calculation of ultimate revenue can be a complex one, however, the level of
complexity and subjectivity is correlated to the number of revenue streams that management believes will be earned. Our process for evaluating ultimate revenues is tailored to the potential we
believe a title has for generating multiple types of revenues. As already mentioned, the majority of our production is intended primarily for exploitation by our own broadcasters and we have
few supportable expectations of generating revenue from other sources. In such cases, we consider mainly the free television window in our calculation of the ultimate revenue. Changes in
estimates of ultimate revenues from period to period affect the amount of film costs amortized in a given period and, therefore, could have an impact on our results for that period.
When the estimated ultimate revenues, less additional costs to be incurred (including exploitation costs), are less than the carrying amount of the film costs, the value of a film is deemed to be
not recoverable and thus, an immediate write-off of unrecoverable film costs is recorded in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income / loss.
Impairment of goodwill, indefinite-lived intangible assets and long-lived assets
We assess the carrying amount of goodwill and other intangible assets with indefinite lives on an annual basis, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that such
carrying amount may not be recoverable. Other than our annual review, factors we consider important which could trigger an impairment review include: under-performance of reporting units
or changes in projected results, changes in the manner of utilization of the asset, a severe and sustained decline in the price of our shares, negative market conditions or economic trends or
specific events such as new legislation, new market entrants, changes in technology as well as adverse legal judgments that we believe could have a negative impact on our business. Therefore,
our judgment as to the future prospects of each business has a significant impact on our results and financial condition. We believe that our assumptions are appropriate. If future cash flows do
not materialize as expected or there is a future adverse change in market conditions, we may be unable to recover the carrying amount of an asset, resulting in future impairment losses.
Impairment tests of our goodwill are performed at the reporting unit level. The fair value of the reporting unit is compared to its carrying value, including goodwill. An impairment loss is
recognized for any excess of the carrying amount of the reporting unit over its fair value. If goodwill and another asset or asset group are tested for impairment at the same time, the other assets
are tested for impairment before goodwill. If the other asset or asset group is impaired, this impairment loss is recognized prior to goodwill being tested for impairment. Impairment tests of other
intangible assets with indefinite lives are performed at the asset level. An impairment loss is recognized for any excess of the carrying amount of the intangible asset over the fair value.
The fair value of each reporting unit is determined using an income methodology estimating projected future cash flows related to each reporting unit. These projected future cash flows are
discounted back to the valuation date. Significant assumptions inherent in the methodology used include estimates of discount rates, future revenue growth rates and a number of other factors,
all of which are based on our assessment of the future prospects and the risks inherent at the respective reporting units. We have identified four reporting units which consist of our four
geographic operating segments: Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Romania and the Slovak Republic.
Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the
respective asset. The same estimates are also used in planning for our long- and short-range business planning and forecasting. We assess the reasonableness of the inputs and outcomes of our
undiscounted cash flow analysis against available comparable market data. If the carrying amount of an asset exceeds its estimated undiscounted future cash flows, an impairment charge is
recognized for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the fair value of the respective asset.
33
Index
The table below shows the key measurements involved and the valuation methods applied:
Measurement
Recoverability of carrying amounts
Fair value of broadcast licenses
Fair value of indefinite-lived trademarks
Fair value of reporting units
Valuation Method
Undiscounted future cash flows
Build-out method
Relief from royalty method
Discounted cash flow model
Our estimate of the cash flows our operations will generate in future periods forms the basis for most of the significant assumptions inherent in our impairment reviews. Our expectations of
these cash flows are developed during our long- and short-range business planning processes, which are designed to address the uncertainties inherent in the forecasting process by capturing a
range of possible views about key trends which govern future cash flow growth.
Each method noted above involves a number of significant assumptions over an extended period of time which could materially change our decision as to whether assets are impaired. The most
significant of these assumptions include: the discount rate applied, the total advertising market size, achievable levels of market share, forecast OIBDA and capital expenditure and the rate of
growth into perpetuity, each described in more detail below:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Cost of capital: The cost of capital reflects the return a hypothetical market participant would require for a long-term investment in an asset and can be viewed as a proxy for the risk
of that asset. We calculate the cost of capital according to the Capital Asset Pricing Model using a number of assumptions, the most significant of which is a Country Risk Premium
(“CRP”). The CRP reflects the excess risk to an investor of investing in markets other than the United States and generally fluctuates with expectations of changes in a country's
macro-economic environment. The costs of capital that we have applied to cash flows for our 2017 annual impairment test are generally lower than those we had used in the 2016
impairment test due to a decrease in country specific risk factors.
Total advertising market: The size of the television advertising market effectively places an upper limit on the advertising revenue we can expect to earn in each country. Our estimate
of the total advertising market is developed from a number of external sources, in combination with a process of on-going consultation with our segment management teams. In our
2017 annual impairment review, we increased or slightly decreased our medium- and long-term view of the size of our individual television advertising markets compared to the
estimates used in the 2016 annual impairment review based on our estimate of the macro-economic outlook of each of our operating markets.
Market share: This is a function of the audience share we expect our stations to generate, and the relative price at which we can sell advertising. Our estimate of the total advertising
market is developed from a number of external sources, in combination with a process of on-going consultation with our segment management teams. Our estimates for our market
share in our 2017 annual impairment review decreased from those in our 2016 impairment review, however, revenues are expected to increase due to the estimated growth in the total
advertising market.
Forecast OIBDA: The level of cash flow generated by each operation is ultimately governed by the extent to which we manage the relationship between revenues and costs. We
forecast the level of operating costs by reference to (a) the historical absolute and relative levels of costs we have incurred in generating revenue in each reporting unit, (b) the
operating strategy of each business and (c) specific forecast costs to be incurred. Our annual impairment review includes assumptions to reflect benefits of cost control measures taken
to date, and contemplated further cost control efforts.
Forecast capital expenditure: The size and phasing of capital expenditure, both recurring expenditure to replace retired assets and investments in new projects, has a significant impact
on cash flows. We forecast the level of future capital expenditure based on current strategies and specific forecast costs to be incurred. The absolute levels of capital expenditure
forecast have generally increased since the prior year impairment review due to the replacement of end of life production equipment.
Growth rate into perpetuity: This reflects the level of economic growth in each of our markets from the final year in our discrete forecast period into perpetuity and is the sum of an
estimated real growth rate, which reflects our belief that macro-economic growth in our markets will ultimately converge to Western European markets, and long-term expectations
for inflation. Our estimates of these rates are based on observable market data and, in most operating countries, have increased since the prior year impairment review due to
improved economic outlook.
Assessing goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment is a complex process that requires significant judgment and involves a great deal of detailed quantitative and qualitative
business-specific analysis and many individual assumptions which fluctuate with the passage of time. We have observed over many years a strong positive correlation between the macro-
economic performance of our markets and the size of the television advertising market and the cash flows we generate. With this in mind, we have considered macro-economic trends in
determining our cash flow forecasts. If our cash flow forecasts for our operations deteriorate, or if costs of capital increase, we may be required to recognize impairment charges in later periods.
Upon conclusion of our 2017 annual review, we determined that the fair values of our reporting units and indefinite-lived intangible assets were substantially in excess of their respective
carrying values. We concluded that the total estimated fair values used for purposes of the test are reasonable by comparing our market capitalization to the results of the discounted cash flow
analysis of our reporting units, as adjusted for unallocated corporate assets and liabilities. The balance of goodwill allocated to each reporting unit is presented in Item 8, Note 4, "Goodwill and
Intangible Assets" .
Revenue Recognition
Net revenues predominantly comprise revenues from the sale of advertising time less discounts and agency commissions, and fees charged to cable and satellite operators for carriage of our
channels. Net revenues are recognized when the advertisement is aired as long as there is persuasive evidence that an arrangement with a customer exists, the price of the delivered advertising
time is fixed or determinable, and collection of the arrangement fee is reasonably assured. In the event that a customer falls significantly behind its contractual payment terms, revenue is
deferred until the customer has resumed normal payment terms.
We maintain a bad debt provision for estimated losses resulting from the inability of our customers to make required payments. If the financial condition of our customers were to deteriorate,
additional allowances may be required in future periods. We review the accounts receivable balances periodically and our historical bad debt, customer concentrations and customer
creditworthiness when evaluating the adequacy of our provision.
34
Index
Income Taxes
The provision for income taxes includes local and foreign taxes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the estimated future tax consequences of temporary differences between the
financial statement carrying amounts and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the year in
which the temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. We evaluate the realizability of our deferred tax assets and establish a valuation allowance when it is more likely than
not that all or a portion of deferred tax assets will not be realized.
In evaluating the realizability of our deferred tax assets, we consider all available positive and negative evidence, including future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, projected
future taxable income, tax planning strategies and recent financial operations. Any reduction in estimated forecasted results may require that we record additional valuation allowances against
our deferred tax assets. Once a valuation allowance has been established, it will be maintained until there is sufficient positive evidence to conclude that it is more likely than not that such assets
will be realized. An ongoing pattern of sustained profitability will generally be considered as sufficient positive evidence. If the allowance is reversed in a future period, our income tax
provision will be reduced to the extent of the reversal. Accordingly, the establishment and reversal of valuation allowances has had and could continue to have a significant negative or positive
impact on our future earnings.
We measure deferred tax assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates that, if changed, would result in either an increase or decrease in the provision for income taxes in the period of change.
From time to time, we engage in transactions, such as business combinations and dispositions, in which the tax consequences may be subject to uncertainty. Significant judgment is required in
assessing and estimating the tax consequences of these transactions. We prepare and file tax returns based on interpretation of tax laws and regulations. In the normal course of business, our tax
returns are subject to examination by various taxing authorities. Such examinations may result in future tax and interest assessments by these taxing authorities. We only recognize tax benefits
taken on tax returns when we believe they are “more likely than not” of being sustained upon examination based on their technical merits. There is considerable judgment involved in
determining whether positions taken on the tax return are “more likely than not” of being sustained.
We recognize, when applicable, both accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized benefits in income tax expense in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations and
comprehensive income / loss.
Foreign exchange
Our reporting currency is the dollar but a significant portion of our consolidated revenues and costs are in other currencies, including programming rights expenses and interest on all of our
long-term debt. CME Ltd.'s income, expenses and cash flows are primarily denominated in Euro. Our other operations have functional currencies other than the dollar.
We record assets and liabilities denominated in a currency other than our functional currency using the exchange rate prevailing at each balance sheet date, with any change in value between
reporting periods being recognized as a transaction gain or loss in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income / loss. We are exposed to foreign currency on the
revaluation of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in currencies other than the local functional currency of the relevant subsidiary. This includes third party receivables and payables, as
well as certain intercompany loans, which are generally provided in currencies other than the dollar.
Certain of our intercompany loans are considered to be of a long-term investment nature as the repayment of these loans is neither planned nor anticipated for the foreseeable future. For the
years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , we recorded gains of US$ 11.3 million and US$ 8.8 million and a loss of US$ 89.0 million , respectively, on the retranslation of these
intercompany loans as an adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive income / loss, a component of shareholders' equity.
The financial statements of our operations are translated to dollars at the exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date for assets and liabilities, and at weighted average rates for the period
for revenues and expenses, including gains and losses. Translational gains and losses are charged or credited to accumulated other comprehensive income / loss.
Determination of the functional currency of an entity requires considerable management judgment. This includes our assessment of a series of indicators, such as the currency in which a
majority of sales transactions are negotiated, expense incurred or financing secured. If the nature of our business operations changes, such as by changing the currency in which sales
transactions are denominated or by incurring significantly more expenditure in a different currency, we may be required to change the functional currency of some of our operations, potentially
changing the amounts we report as transaction gains and losses in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income / loss as well as the translational gains and losses charged
or credited to accumulated other comprehensive income / loss. In establishing functional currency, specific facts and circumstances are considered carefully, and judgment is exercised as to
what types of information might be most useful to investors.
Contingencies
We are, from time to time, involved in certain legal proceedings and, as required, accrue our estimate of the probable costs for the resolution for these claims. These estimates are developed in
consultation with legal counsel and are based upon an analysis of potential results, assuming a combination of litigation and settlement strategies. It is possible, however, that future results of
operations for any particular period could be materially affected by changes in our assumptions or the effectiveness of our strategies related to these proceedings. See Item 8, Note 21,
"Commitments and Contingencies" for more detailed information on our litigation and other contingencies.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
See Item 8, Note 2, "Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" for a discussion of accounting standards adopted and recently issued accounting standards not yet
adopted.
35
Index
V. Related Party Matters
We consider our related parties to be our officers, directors and shareholders who have direct control and/or influence over the Company as well as other parties that can significantly influence
management. As stated in Accounting Standards Codification 850, Related Party Disclosures, transactions involving related parties cannot necessarily be presumed to be carried out on an arm's-
length basis, as the requisite conditions of competitive, free-market dealings may not exist. We have entered into related party transactions in all of our markets, mainly for the purchase of
program rights. In addition, Time Warner guarantees 100% of our outstanding senior indebtedness and is the lender under the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility. For a detailed discussion of all
such transactions, see Item 8, Note 22, "Related Party Transactions" and Part III, Item 13, "Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence".
36
Index
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
We engage in activities that expose us to various market risks, including the effect of changes in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates. We do not engage in speculative transactions,
nor do we hold or issue financial instruments for trading purposes. The table below sets forth our market risk sensitive instruments as at the following dates:
December 31, 2017 :
Expected Maturity Dates
Long-term Debt (000's):
Variable rate (EUR)
Average interest rate (2)
Interest Rate Swaps (000's):
Variable to fixed (EUR)
Average pay rate
Average receive rate
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
Thereafter
200,800
(1)
235,335
1.50%
1.50%
200,800
235,335
0.14%
—%
0.31%
—%
—
—
—
—
—
468,800
1.50%
468,800
0.28%
—%
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(1) On February 5, 2018, we entered into an amendment to extend the maturity date of the 2018 Euro Term Loan from November 1, 2018 to May 1, 2019. On February 6, 2018, we paid EUR
50.0 million (approximately US$ 61.6 million at February 6, 2018 rates) of the outstanding principal balance of the 2018 Euro Term Loan (see Item 8, Note 24, "Subsequent Events" ).
(2) As discussed in Item 8, Note 5, "Long-term Debt and Other Financing Arrangements" , as consideration for Time Warner's guarantee of the Euro Term Loans, we pay Guarantee Fees to
Time Warner based on the amounts outstanding on the Euro Term Loans. As of December 31, 2017 , the all-in borrowing rate on each of the Euro Term Loans was 6.0% per annum.
December 31, 2016 :
Expected Maturity Dates
Long-term Debt (000's):
Variable rate (EUR)
Average interest rate (1)
Interest Rate Swaps (000's):
Variable to fixed (EUR)
Average pay rate
Average receive rate
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
Thereafter
—
—
250,800
1.50%
235,335
1.50%
250,800
250,800
(2)
235,335
0.21%
—%
0.14%
—%
0.31%
—%
—
—
—
—
—
468,800
1.50%
468,800
0.28%
—%
—
—
—
—
—
(1) We pay Guarantee Fees to Time Warner based on the amounts outstanding on the Euro Term Loans. As of December 31, 2016 , the all-in borrowing rate on each the 2018 Euro Term Loan
and the 2019 Euro Term Loan was 8.5% per annum and the all-in borrowing rate on the 2021 Euro Term Loan was 9.0% per annum.
(2) The interest rate swaps maturing in 2018 were forward starting to coincide with the maturity date of the interest rate swaps maturing in 2017. See Item 8, Note 14, "Financial Instruments
and Fair Value Measurements" .
Foreign Currency Exchange Risk Management
We conduct business in a number of currencies other than our functional currencies. As a result, we are subject to foreign currency exchange rate risk due to the effects that foreign exchange
rate movements of these currencies have on our costs and on the cash flows we receive from our subsidiaries. In limited instances, we enter into forward foreign exchange contracts to minimize
foreign currency exchange rate risk (see Item 8, Note 14, "Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measurements" ).
Interest Rate Risk Management
The Euro Term Loans each bear interest at a variable rate based on EURIBOR plus an applicable margin. We are party to a number of interest rate swap agreements intended to reduce our
exposure to interest rate movements (see Item 8, Note 14, "Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measurements" ).
37
Index
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
Financial Statements and Supplementary data begin on the following page and end on the page immediately preceding Item 9.
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and the Shareholders of Central European Media Enterprises Ltd.
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Central European Media Enterprises Ltd. (the Company) as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the related consolidated
statements of operations and comprehensive income / loss, equity and cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2017, and the related notes and the financial
statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 15(a) (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the
consolidated financial position of the Company at December 31, 2017 and 2016, and the consolidated results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended
December 31, 2017, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
We also audited the retrospective adjustments for the discontinued operations described in Note 3a that were applied to the 2015 consolidated financial statements. In our opinion, such
retrospective adjustments are appropriate and have been properly applied. However, we were not engaged to audit, review or apply any procedures to the 2015 consolidated financial statements
of the Company other than with respect to the retrospective adjustments and, accordingly, we do not express an opinion or any other form of assurance on the 2015 consolidated financial
statements taken as a whole.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as
of December 31, 2017, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013
framework) and our report dated February 8, 2018 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a
public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules
and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial
statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements,
whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the
financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the
financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2016.
London, United Kingdom
February 8, 2018
38
Index
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Central European Media Enterprises Ltd.
We have audited, before the effects of the retrospective adjustments for the discontinued operations discussed in Note 3a to the consolidated financial statements, the consolidated statements of
operations and comprehensive income/loss, equity, and cash flows of Central European Media Enterprises Ltd. and subsidiaries (the "Company") for the year ended December 31, 2015 (the
2015 consolidated financial statements before the effects of the retrospective adjustments discussed in Note 3a to the consolidated financial statements are not presented herein). Our audit also
included the financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 15 as it relates to 2015. These financial statements and the financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the
Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial statements and the financial statement schedule based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to
obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and
disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial
statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, such 2015 consolidated financial statements, before the effects of the retrospective adjustments for the discontinued operations discussed in Note 3a to the consolidated financial
statements, present fairly, in all material respects, the results of the Company’s operations and cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2015, in conformity with accounting principles
generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, in our opinion, the financial statement schedule, as it relates to 2015, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial
statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.
We were not engaged to audit, review, or apply any procedures to the retrospective adjustments for the discontinued operations discussed in Note 3a to the consolidated financial statements and,
accordingly, we do not express an opinion or any other form of assurance about whether such retrospective adjustments are appropriate and have been properly applied. Those retrospective
adjustments were audited by other auditors.
/s/ Deloitte LLP
London, United Kingdom
February 22, 2016
39
Index
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
ASSETS
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Accounts receivable, net (Note 7)
Program rights, net (Note 6)
Other current assets (Note 8)
Current assets held for sale (Note 3)
Total current assets
Non-current assets
Property, plant and equipment, net (Note 9)
Program rights, net (Note 6)
Goodwill (Note 4)
Other intangible assets, net (Note 4)
Other non-current assets (Note 8)
Non-current assets held for sale (Note 3)
Total non-current assets
Total assets
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Current liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (Note 10)
Current portion of long-term debt and other financing arrangements (Note 5)
Other current liabilities (Note 11)
Current liabilities held for sale (Note 3)
Total current liabilities
Non-current liabilities
Long-term debt and other financing arrangements (Note 5)
Other non-current liabilities (Note 11)
Non-current liabilities held for sale (Note 3)
Total non-current liabilities
Commitments and contingencies (Note 21)
TEMPORARY EQUITY
$
$
$
December 31, 2017
December 31, 2016
54,903 $
158,903
69,706
33,106
148,156
464,774
103,648
182,170
712,359
148,235
16,869
—
1,163,281
1,628,055 $
143,893
$
2,960
9,280
32,131
188,264
1,085,714
95,254
—
1,180,968
40,606
141,371
69,662
27,541
61,240
340,420
89,080
143,428
601,535
134,705
21,273
60,276
1,050,297
1,390,717
134,378
1,228
8,467
27,491
171,564
1,001,408
67,963
1,415
1,070,786
200,000 shares of Series B Convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock of $0.08 each (December 31, 2016 - 200,000)
(Note 12)
264,593
254,899
EQUITY
CME Ltd. shareholders’ equity (Note 13):
One share of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock of $0.08 each (December 31, 2016 – one)
145,486,497 shares of Class A Common Stock of $0.08 each (December 31, 2016 – 143,449,913)
Nil shares of Class B Common Stock of $0.08 each (December 31, 2016 – nil)
Additional paid-in capital
Accumulated deficit
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
Total CME Ltd. shareholders’ deficit
Noncontrolling interests
Total deficit
Total liabilities and equity
—
11,639
—
1,905,779
(1,735,768)
(187,438)
(5,788)
18
(5,770)
—
11,476
—
1,910,244
(1,785,536)
(243,988)
(107,804)
1,272
(106,532)
1,390,717
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
$
1,628,055
$
40
Index
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME / LOSS
(US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
Net revenues
Operating expenses:
Content costs
Other operating costs
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment
Amortization of intangibles
Cost of revenues
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Restructuring costs
Operating income
Interest expense (Note 15)
Loss on extinguishment of debt (Note 5)
Other non-operating income / (expense), net (Note 16)
Income / (loss) before tax
(Provision) / credit for income taxes (Note 18)
Income / (loss) from continuing operations
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax (Note 3)
Net income / (loss)
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
Net income / (loss) attributable to CME Ltd.
Net income / (loss)
Other comprehensive income / (loss)
Currency translation adjustment (Note 13)
Gain / (loss) on derivative instruments (Note 14)
Total other comprehensive income / (loss)
Comprehensive income / (loss)
Comprehensive loss / (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests
Comprehensive income / (loss) attributable to CME Ltd.
PER SHARE DATA (Note 19):
Net income / (loss) per share:
Continuing operations — basic
Continuing operations — diluted
Discontinued operations — basic
Discontinued operations — diluted
Net income / (loss) attributable to CME Ltd. — basic
Net income / (loss) attributable to CME Ltd. — diluted
Weighted average common shares used in computing per share amounts (000’s):
Basic
Diluted
For The Year Ended December 31,
2017
$
574,212
$
2016
526,174 $
254,061
49,864
26,991
8,592
339,508
104,755
—
129,949
(70,633)
(101)
16,321
75,536
(21,483)
54,053
(4,626)
49,427
341
49,768
$
238,063
54,949
23,106
8,270
324,388
96,254
—
105,532
(111,389)
(150,158)
(2,074)
(158,089)
(6,336)
(164,425)
(16,172)
(180,597)
306
(180,291) $
2015
496,195
227,510
55,731
21,327
12,050
316,618
89,816
1,714
88,047
(151,767)
—
(23,609)
(87,329)
1,153
(86,176)
(29,396)
(115,572)
671
(114,901)
49,427
$
(180,597) $
(115,572)
54,368
1,269
55,637
105,064
1,254
106,318
$
1,649
(3,031)
(1,382)
(181,979)
109
(181,870) $
0.17 $
0.15
(0.03)
(0.03)
0.14
0.12
(1.18) $
(1.18)
(0.10)
(0.10)
(1.28)
(1.28)
(89,714)
(839)
(90,553)
(206,125)
(712)
(206,837)
(0.70)
(0.70)
(0.20)
(0.20)
(0.90)
(0.90)
155,846
236,404
151,017
151,017
146,866
146,866
$
$
$
$
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
41
Index
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY
(US$ 000’s, except share data)
Series A Convertible
Preferred Stock
Class A
Common Stock
CME Ltd.
Class B
Common Stock
Number of
shares
Par value
Number of
shares
Par value
Number of
shares
Par value
Additional
Paid-In
Capital
Accumulated
Deficit
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss
Noncontrolling
Interest
Total
Equity /
(Deficit)
135,335,258
$
10,827
— $
— $
1,928,920
$
(1,490,344) $
(169,609)
$
(2,612)
$
277,182
BALANCE
December 31, 2014
Stock-based compensation
Share issuance, stock based
compensation
Preferred dividend paid in kind
Net loss
Unrealized loss on derivative
instruments
Currency translation adjustment
Reclassified to net income upon
sale of subsidiaries
BALANCE
December 31, 2015
Stock-based compensation
Exercise of warrants (Note 13)
Share issuance, stock based
compensation
Preferred dividend paid in kind
Net loss
Unrealized loss on derivative
instruments
Currency translation adjustment
BALANCE
December 31, 2016
Stock-based compensation
Exercise of warrants (Note 13)
Share issuance, stock-based
compensation
Withholding tax on net share
settlement of stock-based
compensation
Preferred dividend paid in kind
Net income / (loss)
Unrealized gain on derivative
instruments
Currency translation adjustment
BALANCE
December 31, 2017
1
$
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
1
$
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
1
$
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
1
$
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
468,963
—
—
—
—
—
—
37
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2,439
(37)
(17,272)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(114,901)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(839)
(91,097)
19,136
—
—
6,996,955
560
648,737
—
—
—
—
52
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
3,510
6,437
(52)
(13,701)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(180,291)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(3,031)
1,452
—
—
—
2,439
—
(17,272)
(671)
(115,572)
—
1,383
3,281
—
—
—
—
(839)
(89,714)
22,417
78,641
3,510
6,997
—
(13,701)
(306)
(180,597)
—
197
(3,031)
1,649
135,804,221
$
10,864
— $
— $
1,914,050
$
(1,605,245) $
(242,409)
$
1,381
$
143,449,913
$
11,476
— $
— $
1,910,244
$
(1,785,536) $
(243,988)
$
1,272
$
(106,532)
—
—
1,148,469
888,115
—
—
—
—
—
92
71
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
4,412
1,056
(71)
(168)
(9,694)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
49,768
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
1,269
55,281
—
—
—
—
—
4,412
1,148
—
(168)
(9,694)
(341)
49,427
—
(913)
1,269
54,368
145,486,497
$
11,639
— $
— $
1,905,779
$
(1,735,768) $
(187,438)
$
18
$
(5,770)
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
42
Index
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(US$ 000’s)
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income / (loss)
Adjustments to reconcile net income / (loss) to net cash generated from continuing operating activities:
For The Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
$
49,427
$
(180,597) $
(115,572)
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax
Amortization of program rights
Depreciation and other amortization
Interest and related Guarantee Fees paid in kind
Loss on extinguishment of debt (Note 5)
(Gain) / loss on disposal of fixed assets
Deferred income taxes
Stock-based compensation (Note 17)
Change in fair value of derivatives
Foreign currency exchange (gain) / loss, net
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable, net
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Program rights
Other assets and liabilities
Accrued interest
Income taxes payable
Deferred revenue
VAT and other taxes payable
Net cash generated from continuing operating activities
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchase of property, plant and equipment
Proceeds from disposal of property, plant and equipment
Net cash used in continuing investing activities
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Proceeds from debt
Repayments of debt
Debt transactions costs
Payment of credit facilities and capital leases
Settlement of forward currency swaps
Proceeds from exercise of warrants
Proceeds from sale-leaseback transactions
Payments of withholding tax on net share settlement of share-based compensation
Net cash used in continuing financing activities
Net cash (used in) / provided by discontinued operations - operating activities
Net cash used in discontinued operations - investing activities
Net cash used in discontinued operations - financing activities
Impact of exchange rate fluctuations on cash
Net increase / (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, beginning of period
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, end of period
4,626
254,061
41,361
23,137
101
(73)
(483)
4,280
231
(13,425)
1,555
(1,264)
(269,573)
2,503
(2,624)
6,387
(2,316)
(2,590)
95,321
$
(24,905)
$
163
(24,742)
$
— $
(59,060)
(106)
(2,714)
—
1,148
2,746
(168)
(58,154)
$
(4,206)
(4,082)
(285)
10,445
14,297
$
40,606
54,903
$
16,172
238,063
53,163
36,491
150,158
(268)
1,360
3,383
11,473
(8,683)
(17,459)
2,911
(245,099)
(111)
(5,560)
4,445
(680)
225
59,387 $
(22,379) $
178
(22,201) $
533,963 $
(540,699)
(9,541)
(1,086)
(12,106)
6,997
—
—
(22,472) $
(25,900)
(5,961)
(247)
(1,120)
(18,514) $
59,120
40,606 $
29,396
227,510
89,725
75,426
—
17,371
(1,768)
2,311
(7,333)
1,517
(7,430)
4,588
(235,618)
(6,686)
4,407
(845)
3,459
(878)
79,580
(26,654)
3,091
(23,563)
253,051
(261,034)
(1,541)
(27,102)
7,983
—
—
—
(28,643)
5,347
(265)
(329)
(1,851)
30,276
28,844
59,120
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
43
Index
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(US$ 000’s)
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Cash paid for interest (including mandatory cash-pay Guarantee Fees)
Cash paid for Guarantee Fees that may be paid in kind
Cash paid for income taxes, net of refunds
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF NON-CASH FINANCING AND INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Accretion on Series B Convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock
Acquisition of property, plant and equipment under capital lease
$
$
40,619
$
1,735
14,839
50,611 $
7,464
290
$
9,694
8,824
13,701 $
983
14,976
—
807
17,272
844
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
44
Index
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
1. ORGANIZATION AND BUSINESS
Central European Media Enterprises Ltd., a Bermuda company limited by shares, is a media and entertainment company operating in Central and Eastern Europe. Our assets are held through a
series of Dutch and Curaçao holding companies. We manage our business on a geographical basis, with four operating segments; Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Romania and the Slovak
Republic, which are also our reportable segments and our main operating countries. See Note 20, "Segment Data" for financial information by segment.
We are the market-leading broadcasters in each of our four operating countries with a combined portfolio of 26 television channels. Each country also develops and produces content for their
television channels. We generate advertising revenues in our country operations primarily through entering into agreements with advertisers, advertising agencies and sponsors to place
advertising on the television channels that we operate. We generate additional revenues by collecting fees from cable, DTH and IPTV operators for carriage of our channels. Unless otherwise
indicated, we own 100% of our broadcast operating and license companies in each country.
Bulgaria
We operate one general entertainment channel, BTV, and five other channels, BTV CINEMA, BTV COMEDY, BTV ACTION, BTV LADY and RING. We own 94% of CME Bulgaria B.V.
("CME Bulgaria"), the subsidiary that owns our Bulgaria operations.
Czech Republic
We operate one general entertainment channel, TV NOVA, and seven other channels, NOVA 2, NOVA CINEMA, NOVA SPORT 1, NOVA SPORT 2, NOVA ACTION, NOVA GOLD and
NOVA INTERNATIONAL, a general entertainment channel broadcasting in the Slovak Republic.
Romania
We operate one general entertainment channel, PRO TV, and seven other channels, PRO 2 (formerly ACASA), PRO X (formerly SPORT.RO), PRO GOLD (formerly ACASA GOLD), PRO
CINEMA, PRO TV INTERNATIONAL, MTV ROMANIA, as well as PRO TV CHISINAU, a general entertainment channel broadcasting in Moldova.
Slovak Republic
We operate one general entertainment channel, TV MARKIZA, and three other channels, DOMA, DAJTO, and MARKIZA INTERNATIONAL, a general entertainment channel broadcasting
in the Czech Republic.
2. BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The terms the “Company”, “we”, “us”, and “our” are used in this Form 10-K to refer collectively to the parent company, Central European Media Enterprises Ltd. (“CME Ltd.”), and the
subsidiaries through which our various businesses are conducted. Unless otherwise noted, all statistical and financial information presented in this report has been converted into U.S. dollars
using period-end exchange rates. All references to “US$”, “USD” or “dollars” are to U.S. dollars, all references to “BGN” are to Bulgarian leva, all references to “CZK” are to Czech koruna, all
references to “RON” are to the New Romanian lei and all references to “Euro” or “EUR” are to the European Union Euro.
Basis of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of CME Ltd. and our subsidiaries, after the elimination of intercompany accounts and transactions. Entities in which we hold less than
a majority voting interest but over which we have the ability to exercise significant influence are accounted for using the equity method.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with US GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and
disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. Actual results could differ
from those estimates and assumptions.
45
Index
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
Summary of Critical and Significant Accounting Policies
The following is a discussion of each of the Company’s critical accounting policies, including information and analysis of estimates and assumptions involved in their application, and other
significant accounting policies.
Revenue Recognition
Revenue is recognized when there is persuasive evidence of an arrangement, delivery of products has occurred or services have been rendered, the price is fixed or determinable and
collectibility is reasonably assured. A bad debt provision is maintained for estimated losses resulting from our customers' subsequent inability to make payments. Without evidence to the
contrary, amounts that are past due in excess of one year are written-off in their entirety.
Revenues are recognized net of discounts and customer sales incentives. Our principal revenue streams and their respective accounting treatments are discussed below:
Advertising revenue
Revenues primarily result from the sale of advertising time. Television advertising revenue is recognized as the commercials are aired. In many countries, we commit to provide advertisers with
certain rating levels in connection with their advertising. Revenue is recorded net of estimated shortfalls, which are usually settled by providing the advertiser additional advertising time.
Discounts and agency commissions are recognized at the point when the advertising is broadcast and are reflected as a reduction to gross revenue. Display advertising on our websites is
recognized as impressions are delivered. Impressions are delivered when an advertisement appears in pages viewed by users.
Carriage fees and subscription revenues
Carriage fees from cable operators and direct-to-home broadcasters are recognized as revenue over the period for which the channels are provided and to which the fees relate. Subscriber
revenue is recognized as contracted, based upon the number of subscribers.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on hand and marketable securities with original maturities of three months or less. Cash that is subject to restrictions is classified as restricted cash, if
applicable.
Program Rights
Purchased program rights
Purchased program rights and the related liabilities are recorded at their gross value when the license period begins and the programs are available for broadcast.
Purchased program rights are classified as current or non-current assets based on anticipated usage, while the related program rights liability is classified as current or non-current according to
the payment terms of the license agreement.
Program rights are evaluated to determine if expected revenues are sufficient to cover the unamortized portion of the program. To the extent that expected revenues are insufficient, the program
rights are written down to their expected net realizable value. These programming impairment charges, along with programming impairment charges related to own-produced content, are
presented as a component of content costs in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income / loss.
The costs incurred to acquire program rights are capitalized and amortized over their expected useful lives in a manner which reflects the pattern we expect to use and benefit from the
programming. If the initial airing of content allowed by a license is expected to provide more value than subsequent airings, we apply an accelerated method of amortization. These accelerated
methods of amortization depend on the estimated number of runs the content is expected to receive, and are determined based on a study of historical results for similar programming. For
programming that is not advertising supported, each program's costs are amortized on a straight-line basis over the license period. For content that is expected to be aired only once, the entire
cost is expensed on the first run.
Produced program rights
Program rights that are produced by us consist of deferred film and television costs including direct costs, production overhead and development costs. The costs are stated at the lower of cost,
net of accumulated amortization, or fair value. The amount of capitalized production costs recognized as cost of revenues for a given production as it is exhibited in various markets is
determined using the film forecast method. The proportion of costs recognized is equal to the proportion of the revenue recognized compared to the total revenue expected to be generated
throughout the product's life cycle (the “ultimate revenues”). Our process for evaluating ultimate revenues is tailored to the potential we believe a title has for generating multiple revenues. The
majority of our production is intended primarily for exploitation by our own broadcasters. In such cases, we consider mainly the free television window in our calculation of the ultimate
revenues. Changes in estimates of ultimate revenues from period to period affect the amount of film costs amortized in a given period and, therefore, could have an impact on our results for that
period.
Produced program rights are amortized on an individual production basis using the ratio of the current period's gross revenues to estimated remaining total ultimate revenues from such
programs. Produced program rights are evaluated to determine if expected revenues, less additional costs to be incurred (including exploitation costs) are sufficient to cover the unamortized
portion of the program. To the extent that expected revenues are insufficient, the program rights are written down to their fair value.
46
Index
Property, Plant and Equipment
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
Property, plant and equipment is carried at cost, less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives assigned to each major
asset category as below:
Asset category
Land
Buildings
Machinery, fixtures and equipment
Other equipment
Software
Estimated useful life
Indefinite
25 years
4 - 8 years
3 - 8 years
3 - 5 years
Construction-in-progress is not depreciated until put into use. Capital leases are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the asset or the lease term.
Leasehold improvements are depreciated over the shorter of the related lease term or the life of the asset. Assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of carrying amount or fair value, less
expected costs of disposal.
Long-Lived Assets Including Intangible Assets with Finite Lives
Long-lived assets include property, plant, equipment and intangible assets with finite lives. We evaluate the remaining useful life of intangible assets with finite lives each reporting period. We
review long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Long-lived assets are evaluated at the
asset group level when there is an indication that they may be impaired. The carrying amounts of long-lived assets are considered impaired when the anticipated undiscounted cash flows from
such assets are less than their carrying amounts. In that event, a loss is recognized based on the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the fair value.
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
We evaluate goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment annually as of October 1, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be
impaired. Such events and changes in circumstances include:
•
•
•
•
•
under-performance of operating segments or changes in projected results;
changes in the manner of utilization of an asset;
severe and sustained declines in the trading price of shares of our Class A common stock that are not attributable to factors other than the underlying value of our assets;
negative market conditions or economic trends; and
specific events, such as new legislation, new market entrants, changes in technology or adverse legal judgments that we believe could have a negative impact on our business.
Goodwill is evaluated at the reporting unit level, which we have determined is each of our four operating segments. We elected to bypass the qualitative assessment for all of our reporting units
in 2017 and proceed directly to performing the quantitative goodwill impairment test. The fair value of our reporting units is determined based on the present value of expected future cash
flows, including terminal value, discounted at appropriate rates, determined separately for each reporting unit, and on publicly available information, where appropriate. The determination of
fair value involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions, including: revenue growth rates, operating margins, capital expenditures, working capital requirements, tax rates, terminal
growth rates, discount rates, management's long-term plan and a discount rate selected with reference to the relevant cost of capital. An impairment exists when the carrying amount of a
reporting unit (including its goodwill), exceeds its fair value.
We evaluate the remaining useful life of each indefinite-lived intangible asset each reporting period. Each indefinite-lived intangible asset is evaluated for impairment individually. The fair
value of our indefinite-lived intangible assets are determined using the relief from royalty method. An impairment loss is recognized if the carrying amount of an indefinite-lived intangible asset
exceeds its fair value.
Income Taxes
We account for income taxes under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the expected tax consequences of temporary differences between the tax
bases of assets and liabilities and their reported amounts. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the year in which the
temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. Valuation allowances are established when necessary to reduce deferred tax assets to amounts which are more likely than not to be
realized. In evaluating the realizability of our deferred tax assets, we consider all available positive and negative evidence, including future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences,
projected future taxable income, tax planning strategies and recent financial operations.
We recognize in the consolidated financial statements those tax positions determined to be “more likely than not” of being sustained upon examination, based on the technical merits of the
positions and we recognize, when applicable, both accrued interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in income tax expense in the accompanying consolidated statements of
operations and comprehensive income / loss.
47
Index
Foreign Currency
Translation of financial statements
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
Our reporting currency is the dollar. The financial statements of our operations whose functional currency is other than the dollar are translated from such functional currency to dollars at the
exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date for assets and liabilities, and at weighted average rates for the period for revenues and expenses, including gains and losses. Translational gains
and losses are charged or credited to accumulated other comprehensive income / loss, a component of equity.
Certain of our intercompany loans to our subsidiaries are of a long-term investment nature. We recorded gains of US$ 11.3 million and US$ 8.8 million and a loss of US$ 89.0 million for the
years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively, on the retranslation of these intercompany loans as an adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive income / loss, a
component of shareholders' equity, as settlement of these loans is not planned or anticipated in the foreseeable future.
Transactions in foreign currencies
Gains and losses from foreign currency transactions are included in foreign currency exchange gain / loss, net in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income / loss in
the period during which they arise.
Leases
Leases are classified as either capital or operating. Those leases that transfer substantially all benefits and risks of ownership of the property to us are accounted for as capital leases. All other
leases are accounted for as operating leases.
Capital leases are accounted for as assets and are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the asset or the lease term. Commitments to repay the
principal amounts arising under capital lease obligations are included in current liabilities to the extent that the amount is repayable within one year; otherwise the principal is included in non-
current liabilities. The capitalized lease obligation reflects the present value of future lease payments. The financing element of the lease payments is charged to interest expense over the term of
the lease.
Operating lease costs are expensed on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease.
Financial Instruments
Fair value of financial instruments
The carrying amount of financial instruments, including cash, accounts receivable, and accounts payable and accrued liabilities, approximate their fair value due to the short-term nature of these
items. The fair value of our long-term debt (as defined hereinafter) is included in Note 5, "Long-term Debt and Other Financing Arrangements" .
Fair value is the price an asset or liability could be exchanged in an arm’s-length orderly transaction between knowledgeable, able and willing parties that is not a forced sale or liquidation. US
GAAP requires significant management estimates in determining fair value. The extent of management’s judgments is highly dependent on the valuation model employed and the observability
of inputs to the fair value model. The level of management judgment required in establishing fair value of financial instruments is more significant where there is no active market in which the
instrument is traded. For financial instruments that are not remeasured through net income, we estimate fair value at issuance and account for the instrument at amortized cost. For financial
instruments that are remeasured through net income, we assess the fair value of the instrument at each period end or earlier when events occur or circumstances change that would so require (see
Note 14, "Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measurements" ).
Derivative financial instruments
We use derivative financial instruments for the purpose of mitigating currency and interest rate risks, which exist as part of ongoing business operations and financing activities. As a policy, we
do not engage in speculative or leveraged transactions, nor do we hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading purposes.
Forward exchange contracts and currency swaps are used to mitigate exposures to currency fluctuations on certain short-term transactions generally denominated in currencies other than our
functional currency. These contracts are marked to market at the balance sheet date, and the resultant unrealized gains and losses are recorded in the consolidated statements of operations and
comprehensive income / loss, together with realized gains and losses arising on settlement of these contracts.
Interest rate swaps and other instruments may be used to mitigate exposures to interest rate fluctuations on certain of our long-term debt instruments with variable interest rates. These contracts
are marked to market at the balance sheet date, and the resultant unrealized gains and losses are recorded in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income / loss, together
with realized gains and losses arising on settlement of these contracts. From time to time, we may designate certain of these instruments as hedges and apply hedge accounting as discussed in
Note 14, "Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measurements" .
Stock-Based Compensation
Stock-based compensation is recognized at fair value. We calculate the fair value of stock option awards using the Black-Scholes option pricing model on the grant date. The grant date fair
value of restricted stock units ("RSUs") is calculated as the closing price of our Class A common stock on the date of grant. Stock-based compensation expense is recognized on a straight-line
basis over the vesting period of the award. Stock-based compensation awards are accounted for as equity-settled transactions.
Contingencies
The estimated loss from a loss contingency such as a legal proceeding or other claim is recorded in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income / loss if it is probable
that an asset has been impaired or a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. Disclosure of a loss contingency is made if there is at least a reasonable
possibility that a loss has been incurred.
48
Index
Advertising Costs
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
Advertising costs are expensed as incurred. Advertising expense incurred for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 totaled US$ 5.2 million , US$ 4.6 million and US$ 2.1 million
, respectively.
Earnings Per Share
Basic and diluted net income / loss per share is calculated using the two-class method. Under the two-class method, basic net income / loss per common share is computed by dividing the net
income available to common shareholders after deducting contractual amounts of accretion on our Series B Preferred Shares, as well as income allocated to these shares, by the weighted-
average number of common shares outstanding during the period including the common stock underlying the Series A Preferred Shares. Diluted net income / loss per share is computed by
dividing the adjusted net income by the weighted-average number of dilutive shares outstanding during the period.
Discontinued Operations
We present our results of operations, financial position and cash flows of operations that have either been sold or that meet the criteria for "held-for-sale accounting" as discontinued operations
if the disposal represents a strategic shift that will have a major effect on our operations and financial results. At the time an operation qualifies for held-for-sale accounting, the operation is
evaluated to determine whether or not the carrying amount exceeds its fair value less cost to sell. Any loss as a result of carrying amounts in excess of fair value less cost to sell is recorded in the
period the operation qualifies for held-for-sale accounting. Management judgment is required to (1) assess the criteria required to meet held-for-sale accounting, and (2) estimate fair value. Our
Croatia and Slovenia operations are classified as discontinued operations and assets held for sale for all periods presented. Certain of our Romania operations, which were sold in 2015, are
presented as discontinued operations in the year ended December 31, 2015. See Note 3, "Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale" .
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
Accounting Pronouncements Adopted
On January 1, 2017 we adopted guidance issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the “FASB”) which is intended to improve the accounting for the income tax consequences of
intercompany transfers of assets other than inventory. The guidance requires an entity to recognize the income tax consequences of such transfers in the period in which the transfer occurs,
rather than defer recognition of current and deferred income taxes for the transfer until the asset is sold to a third party. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact on our
consolidated financial statements.
On October 1, 2017 we adopted guidance issued by the FASB which is intended to simplify goodwill impairment testing by eliminating Step 2, and instead recognize an impairment charge for
the amount by which the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds the fair value of the reporting unit. The guidance also eliminates the requirement to perform a qualitative analysis for
reporting units with a negative carrying value. The adoption of this guidance did not have any material impacts on our consolidated financial statements or disclosures.
In May 2017, the FASB issued guidance which is intended to provide clarity on which types of modifications to the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award are expected to have an
accounting impact. We have early adopted this guidance during the fourth quarter of 2017. There were no impacts as a result of our adopting this guidance for the periods presented and all
future impacts are not reasonably estimable.
In August 2017, the FASB issued guidance which is intended to simplify the application of hedge accounting and increase transparency of information about an entity's risk management
activities. The guidance changes both the designation and measurement guidance for qualifying hedging relationships and the presentation of hedge results in the financial statements. We have
early adopted this guidance during the fourth quarter of 2017. There were no impacts as a result of our adopting this guidance for the periods presented and all future impacts are not reasonably
estimable.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements Issued
In May 2014, the FASB issued guidance which is intended to improve the comparability of revenue recognition practices across entities, industries, jurisdictions, and capital markets. The
guidance supersedes existing revenue recognition guidance and requires an entity to recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that
reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The guidance is effective for our fiscal year beginning January 1, 2018. We have
completed our evaluation of the impact of adoption and determined that no adjustment or significant changes to our current processes will be necessary. Our television advertising revenues,
which comprised approximately 82% of our 2017 revenues are short-term in nature (contracted on a calendar month basis) with transaction price consideration and discounts determined or
determinable in advance. Carriage fee and subscription revenues, which comprised approximately 14% of our 2017 revenues, will be recognized under the licensing of intellectual property
guidance in the standard, which will not have a material change to our current revenue recognition. Other revenues generally contain elements similar to television advertising or carriage fees.
We adopted the guidance beginning January 1, 2018 under the modified retrospective method, in which the cumulative effect of applying the guidance is recognized at the date of initial
application.
In February 2016, the FASB issued new guidance to increase transparency and comparability among organizations by recognizing leasing assets and liabilities on the balance sheet and requiring
additional disclosures about an entity's leasing arrangements. The guidance requires that a lessee recognize a liability to make lease payments and a right-of-use asset, with an available
exception for leases shorter than twelve months. The guidance is effective for our fiscal year beginning January 1, 2019. We are currently in the process of evaluating the impact of the adoption
of this guidance on our consolidated financial statements.
49
Index
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
In June 2016, the FASB issued new guidance to provide financial statement users with more decision-useful information about the expected credit losses on financial instruments and other
commitments to extend credit held by a reporting entity at each reporting date. The amendments in this replace the incurred loss impairment methodology in the current guidance with a
methodology that reflects expected credit losses and requires consideration of a broader range of reasonable and supportable information to inform credit loss estimates. The guidance is
effective for our fiscal year beginning January 1, 2020 with early adoption permitted for our fiscal year beginning January 1, 2019. We are in the process of assessing the potential impacts of
this guidance.
In August 2016, the FASB issued new guidance which is intended to reduce the existing diversity in practice related to specific cash flow issues. As applicable to CME, the guidance requires
that cash flows at the settlement of zero-coupon debt instruments or debt instruments with coupon interest rates that are insignificant in relation to the effective interest rate of the borrowing be
bifurcated between cash outflows for operating activities for the portion attributable to accrued interest, and cash outflows for financing activities for the portion attributable to the principal. The
guidance requires a retrospective transition method and is effective for our fiscal year beginning January 1, 2018, with early adoption permitted. Upon adoption, our net cash flows generated
from / used in continuing operating activities will decrease by US$ 110.7 million and US$ 1.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, with a corresponding
increase in net cash used in / provided by continuing financing activities. The adoption of this guidance will have no impact on our net cash flows generated from continuing operating activities
in 2017.
3. DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS AND ASSETS HELD FOR SALE
On July 9, 2017, we entered into a framework agreement with Slovenia Broadband S.à r.l. (the "Purchaser"), a wholly owned subsidiary of United Group B.V., relating to the sale of our Croatia
and Slovenia operations for cash consideration of EUR 230.0 million (approximately US$ 275.8 million ) (the "Divestment Transaction"), subject to customary working capital adjustments. The
closing of the Divestment Transaction is subject to obtaining regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. On November 15, 2017 the Croatian Agency for Electronic Media
("CAEM") published a decision that the acquisition by the Purchaser is not permitted under the Croatian Act on Electronic Media due to certain cross ownership restrictions that CAEM believes
to be applicable to the Divestment Transaction. Following the sale by United Group of certain assets in Croatia to address this cross ownership restriction cited by CAEM, the Purchaser has
reapplied for approval from CAEM. We expect the transaction to close subject to obtaining the remaining regulatory approval and other customary closing conditions being satisfied. If the
transaction is terminated by either party because the transaction has not closed as of March 31, 2018, we would receive a termination fee of EUR 7.0 million (approximately US$ 8.4 million ),
subject to certain exceptions, including if the requisite regulatory approvals have not been obtained as a result of the Purchaser being required to make specified material divestitures as a
condition to any requisite regulatory approvals or if a notification has not been declared complete by a relevant regulatory authority.
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax for the year ended December 31, 2015 includes the results of our Romania operations sold during 2015. Separate analysis of the impact of
discontinued operations arising in 2017 (Croatia and Slovenia) and 2015 (Romania) is given in Notes 3a and 3b below.
The carrying amounts of the major classes of assets and liabilities of our discontinued operations that are classified as held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2017 and
December 31, 2016 were:
December 31, 2017
December 31, 2016
Assets held for sale
Current assets held for sale
Cash and cash equivalents
Accounts receivable, net
Program rights, net
Property, plant and equipment, net
Other current assets
Total current assets held for sale
Non-current assets held for sale
Program rights, net
Property, plant and equipment, net
Other non-current assets
Total non-current assets held for sale
Liabilities held for sale
Current liabilities held for sale
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Other current liabilities
Total current liabilities held for sale
Non-current liabilities held for sale
Other non-current liabilities
Total non-current liabilities held for sale
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
8,784 $
43,540
62,017
22,870
10,945
148,156 $
— $
—
—
— $
30,073 $
2,058
32,131 $
— $
— $
2,853
36,969
16,489
—
4,929
61,240
35,927
20,010
4,339
60,276
26,603
888
27,491
1,415
1,415
50
Index
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax comprised the following for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 :
Net revenues
Cost of revenues
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Operating income
Interest expense (1)
Other non-operating income / (expense), net
Loss from discontinued operations, before tax
Provision for income taxes
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax, before loss on sale
Loss on sale of divested businesses, net of tax
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax
For The Year Ended December 31,
2017
$
126,499
$
88,763
22,265
15,471
(18,579)
729
(2,379)
(2,247)
(4,626)
—
(4,626)
$
$
2016
111,839 $
89,438
16,344
6,057
(20,835)
(413)
(15,191)
(981)
(16,172)
—
(16,172) $
2015
116,931
92,605
19,718
4,608
(19,699)
(2,370)
(17,461)
(547)
(18,008)
(11,388)
(29,396)
(1) For the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , we paid US$ 17.4 million , US$ 33.3 million and US$ 3.5 million , respectively, of interest and Guarantee Fees associated with the
2018 Euro Term Loan, both as defined in Note 5, "Long-term Debt and Other Financing Arrangements" . These payments were allocated to net cash (used in) / provided by discontinued
operations - operating activities in our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows as we are required to apply the expected proceeds from the sale of our Croatia and Slovenia operations
towards the repayment of the remaining principal amounts owing in respect of the 2018 Euro Term Loan (see Note 5, "Long-term Debt and Other Financing Arrangements" ).
3a. Discontinued Operations - Croatia and Slovenia
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax related to the sale of our Croatia and Slovenia operations classified as held for sale and discontinued operations during 2017 comprised the
following for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 :
For The Year Ended December 31,
Net revenues
Cost of revenues
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Operating income
Interest expense
Other non-operating income / (expense), net
Loss from discontinued operations, before tax
Provision for income taxes
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax
PER SHARE DATA:
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax per share:
Basic
Diluted
2016
111,839 $
89,438
16,344
6,057
(20,835)
(413)
(15,191)
(981)
(16,172) $
2015
109,646
85,925
17,185
6,536
(19,677)
(2,330)
(15,471)
(638)
(16,109)
2017
$
126,499
$
88,763
22,265
15,471
(18,579)
729
(2,379)
(2,247)
(4,626)
$
$
$
(0.03)
$
(0.03)
(0.10) $
(0.10)
(0.11)
(0.11)
Net cash (used in) / provided by discontinued operations classified as held for sale and discontinued operations during 2017 comprised the following for the years ended December 31, 2017 ,
2016 and 2015 :
Net cash (used in) / provided by discontinued operations - operating activities
$
Net cash used in discontinued operations - investing activities
Net cash used in discontinued operations - financing activities
51
For The Year Ended December 31,
2017
(4,206)
$
(6,128)
(285)
2016
(25,900) $
(7,155)
(247)
2015
8,366
(6,863)
(253)
Index
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
3b. Discontinued Operations - Romania
During 2015, we completed our non-core divestiture plans with the sale of our Romanian studios, cinema, music, radio and distribution businesses.
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax related to discontinued operations classified as discontinued during 2015 comprised the following for the year ended December 31, 2015:
For The Year Ended December 31,
Net revenues
Cost of revenues
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Operating loss
Interest expense
Other non-operating expense, net
Loss from discontinued operations, before tax
Credit for income taxes
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax, before loss on sale
Loss on sale of divested businesses, net of tax (1)
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax
$
$
2015
7,285
6,680
2,533
(1,928)
(22)
(40)
(1,990)
91
(1,899)
(11,388)
(13,287)
(1) Amount includes realized gains / losses on completed disposal transactions in 2015. The amount includes losses related to the reclassification of the cumulative translation adjustment into
net income of US$ 7.7 million and the reclassification of accumulated losses attributable to noncontrolling interest of US$ 3.7 million .
PER SHARE DATA:
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax per share:
Basic
Diluted
$
Net cash provided by discontinued operations classified as discontinued during 2015 comprised the following for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 :
Net cash used in discontinued operations - operating activities
$
Net cash provided by discontinued operations - investing activities
Net cash used in discontinued operations - financing activities
52
For The Year Ended December 31,
2017
— $
2,046
—
2016
— $
1,194
—
(0.09)
(0.09)
2015
(3,019)
6,598
(76)
Index
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
4. GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Goodwill:
Goodwill by reporting unit as at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 is summarized as follows:
Gross Balance, December 31, 2015
Accumulated impairment losses
Balance, December 31, 2015
Foreign currency
Balance, December 31, 2016
Accumulated impairment losses
Gross Balance, December 31, 2016
Gross Balance, December 31, 2016
Accumulated impairment losses
Balance, December 31, 2016
Foreign currency
Balance, December 31, 2017
Accumulated impairment losses
Gross Balance, December 31, 2017
Other intangible assets:
Bulgaria
Czech Republic
Romania
Slovak Republic
Total
172,365
$
759,491
$
(144,639)
27,726
(976)
26,750
(144,639)
171,389
$
(287,545)
471,946
(15,008)
456,938
(287,545)
744,483
$
85,443 $
(11,028)
74,415
(2,657)
71,758
(11,028)
82,786 $
47,605 $
—
47,605
(1,516)
46,089
—
46,089 $
1,064,904
(443,212)
621,692
(20,157)
601,535
(443,212)
1,044,747
Bulgaria
Czech Republic
Romania
Slovak Republic
Total
171,389
$
744,483
$
(144,639)
26,750
3,682
30,432
(287,545)
456,938
93,249
550,187
(144,639)
175,071
$
(287,545)
837,732
$
82,786 $
(11,028)
71,758
7,519
79,277
(11,028)
90,305 $
46,089 $
—
46,089
6,374
52,463
—
52,463 $
1,044,747
(443,212)
601,535
110,824
712,359
(443,212)
1,155,571
$
$
$
$
Changes in the net book value of our other intangible assets as at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 is summarized as follows:
December 31, 2017
Accumulated
Amortization
Gross
Net
Gross
December 31, 2016
Accumulated
Amortization
Net
Indefinite-lived:
Trademarks
Amortized:
Broadcast licenses
Trademarks
Customer relationships
Other
Total
$
$
87,900 $
— $
87,900 $
76,731 $
— $
76,731
220,194
421
58,771
1,753
(161,820)
(421)
(56,996)
(1,567)
369,039
$
(220,804)
$
58,374
—
1,775
186
148,235 $
184,195
380
51,338
1,522
314,166 $
(128,876)
(380)
(48,997)
(1,208)
(179,461) $
55,319
—
2,341
314
134,705
Broadcast licenses consist of our TV NOVA license in the Czech Republic, which is amortized on a straight-line basis through the expiration date of the license in 2025. Our customer
relationships are deemed to have an economic useful life of, and are amortized on a straight-line basis, over five years to fifteen years .
The estimated amortization expense for the succeeding five years for our intangible assets with finite lives as of December 31, 2017 is as follows:
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
$
9,273
8,725
8,455
8,405
8,261
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets:
Our annual assessment of impairment includes the allocation of corporate debt to individual reporting units based on their relative fair values. This allocation resulted in negative carrying values
for the Romania and the Slovak Republic segments for the purpose of the assessment, however, neither segment was determined to be impaired.
Upon conclusion of our annual impairment assessment, we determined that the fair value of our goodwill and other intangible assets were substantially in excess of their respective carrying
values. We did not recognize any impairment charges in respect of goodwill and other intangible assets during the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 or 2015 . See Note 2, "Basis of
Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" for further information.
53
Index
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
5. LONG-TERM DEBT AND OTHER FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS
Summary
Long-term debt
Other credit facilities and capital leases
Total long-term debt and other financing arrangements
Less: current maturities
Total non-current long-term debt and other financing arrangements
Financing Transactions
December 31, 2017
December 31, 2016
$
$
1,079,187 $
9,487
1,088,674
(2,960)
1,085,714 $
999,209
3,427
1,002,636
(1,228)
1,001,408
Pursuant to an amendment in March 2017 to the Reimbursement Agreement (as defined below) with Time Warner Inc. ("Time Warner"), as guarantor of our obligations under the Euro Term
Loans (as defined below), the grid pricing structure on the all-in rate that applied only to the 2021 Euro Term Loan (as defined below) was extended to the 2018 Euro Term Loan (as defined
below) and the 2019 Euro Term Loan (as defined below), with a reduction in the pricing under the grid for each of the Euro Term Loans resulting in an all-in rate ranging from 8.5% (if our net
leverage, as defined in the Reimbursement Agreement, is greater than or equal to seven times) to 5.0% (if our net leverage is less than five times). In addition, we can achieve a further 50 basis
point reduction in the all-in rate if we reduce our long-term debt to less than EUR 815.0 million , subject to certain adjustments in respect of specified debt repayments, on or prior to
September 30, 2018. As at December 31, 2017 , our net leverage ratio was 5.4 times and the all-in interest rate was 6.0% (effective from the end of October 2017). We are required to pay the
first 5.0% of the all-in rate (including the base rate and the rate paid pursuant to customary hedging arrangements) on the Euro Term Loans in cash and the remainder may be paid in cash or in
kind, at our option. For details, see the table below under the heading "Reimbursement Agreement and Guarantee Fees".
On August 1, 2017, we elected to repay EUR 50.0 million (approximately US$ 59.1 million at August 1, 2017 rates) of the outstanding principal balance of the 2018 Euro Term Loan on which
we recognized a loss on extinguishment of US$ 0.1 million .
On February 5, 2018, we entered into an amendment to extend the maturity date of the 2018 Euro Term Loan from November 1, 2018 to May 1, 2019. On February 6, 2018, we paid EUR 50.0
million (approximately US$ 61.6 million at February 6, 2018 rates) of the outstanding principal balance of the 2018 Euro Term Loan (see Note 24, "Subsequent Events" ).
We are required to apply the proceeds from the sale of our Croatia and Slovenia operations to the repayment of the remaining principal amounts owing in respect of the 2018 Euro Term Loan.
Any excess amounts will then be applied to pay fees related to the 2019 Euro Term Loan, including Guarantee Fees and the Commitment Fee which we have previously paid in kind pursuant to
the Reimbursement Agreement (see Note 3, "Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale" ).
Overview
Total long-term debt and credit facilities comprised the following at December 31, 2017 :
2018 Euro Term Loan
2019 Euro Term Loan
2021 Euro Term Loan
2021 Revolving Credit Facility
Total long-term debt and credit facilities
$
$
Principal Amount of
Liability Component
240,819
282,238
562,232
—
1,085,289
$
Debt Issuance Costs (1)
$
Net Carrying Amount
(274) $
(367)
(5,461)
—
(6,102) $
240,545
281,871
556,771
—
1,079,187
(1) Debt issuance costs related to the 2018 Euro Term Loan, 2019 Euro Term Loan and 2021 Euro Term Loan are being amortized on a straight-line basis, which approximates the effective
interest method, over the life of the respective instruments. Debt issuance costs related to the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility are classified as non-current assets in our consolidated balance
sheet and are being amortized on a straight-line basis over the life of the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility.
Long-term Debt
Our long-term debt comprised the following at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 :
2018 Euro Term Loan
2019 Euro Term Loan
2021 Euro Term Loan
Carrying Amount
Fair Value
December 31, 2017
December 31, 2016
December 31, 2017
December 31, 2016
$
$
240,545 $
281,871
556,771
1,079,187 $
263,734 $
247,594
487,881
999,209 $
236,337 $
268,858
510,882
1,016,077 $
233,297
203,314
369,738
806,349
The fair values of the Euro Term Loans (as defined below) as at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 were determined based on comparable instruments that trade in active markets.
This measurement of estimated fair value uses Level 2 inputs as described in Note 14, "Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measurements" . Certain derivative instruments, including
contingent event of default and change of control put options, have been identified as being embedded in the Euro Term Loans. The embedded derivatives are considered clearly and closely
related to their respective Euro Term Loan, and as such are not required to be accounted for separately.
54
Index
2018 Euro Term Loan
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
As at December 31, 2017 , the principal amount of our floating rate senior unsecured term credit facility (as amended, the "2018 Euro Term Loan") outstanding was EUR 200.8 million
(approximately US$ 240.8 million ). The 2018 Euro Term Loan bears interest at three-month EURIBOR (fixed pursuant to customary hedging arrangements (see Note 14, "Financial
Instruments and Fair Value Measurements" )) plus a margin of between 1.1% and 1.9% depending on the credit rating of Time Warner Inc. ("Time Warner"). As at December 31, 2017 , the all-
in borrowing rate on amounts outstanding under the 2018 Euro Term Loan was 6.0% (the components of which are shown in the table below under the heading "Interest Rate Summary").
Interest on the 2018 Euro Term Loan is payable quarterly in arrears on each March 12, June 12, September 12 and December 12. Pursuant to an amendment entered into on February 5, 2018,
the maturity date of the 2018 Euro Term Loan was extended to May 1, 2019. See Note 24, "Subsequent Events" . The 2018 Euro Term Loan may currently be prepaid at our option, in whole or
in part, without premium or penalty. The 2018 Euro Term Loan is a senior unsecured obligation of CME Ltd., and is unconditionally guaranteed by our 100% owned subsidiary CME Media
Enterprises B.V. ("CME BV") and by Time Warner and certain of its subsidiaries.
2019 Euro Term Loan
As at December 31, 2017 , the principal amount of our floating rate senior unsecured term credit facility (the "2019 Euro Term Loan") outstanding was EUR 235.3 million (approximately US$
282.2 million ). The 2019 Euro Term Loan bears interest at three-month EURIBOR (fixed pursuant to customary hedging arrangements (see Note 14, "Financial Instruments and Fair Value
Measurements" )) plus a margin of between 1.1% and 1.9% depending on the credit rating of Time Warner. As at December 31, 2017 , the all-in borrowing rate on amounts outstanding under
the 2019 Euro Term Loan was 6.0% (the components of which are shown in the table below under the heading "Interest Rate Summary").
Interest on the 2019 Euro Term Loan is payable quarterly in arrears on each February 13, May 13, August 13 and November 13. The 2019 Euro Term Loan matures on November 1, 2019 and
may currently be prepaid at our option, in whole or in part, without premium or penalty. The 2019 Euro Term Loan is a senior unsecured obligation of CME Ltd., and is unconditionally
guaranteed by CME BV and by Time Warner and certain of its subsidiaries.
2021 Euro Term Loan
As at December 31, 2017 , the principal amount of our floating rate senior unsecured term credit facility (the "2021 Euro Term Loan") outstanding was EUR 468.8 million (approximately US$
562.2 million ). The 2021 Euro Term Loan bears interest at three-month EURIBOR (fixed pursuant to customary hedging arrangements (see Note 14, "Financial Instruments and Fair Value
Measurements" )) plus a margin of between 1.1% and 1.9% depending on the credit rating of Time Warner. As at December 31, 2017 , the all-in borrowing rate on amounts outstanding under
the 2021 Euro Term Loan was 6.0% (the components of which are shown in the table below under the heading "Interest Rate Summary").
Interest on the 2021 Euro Term Loan is payable quarterly in arrears on each April 7, July 7, October 7 and January 7. The 2021 Euro Term Loan matures on February 19, 2021 and may be
prepaid at our option, in whole or in part, without premium or penalty, upon the earlier of the occurrence of certain events, including if our net leverage (as defined in the Reimbursement
Agreement) decreases to below five times for two consecutive quarters, or at any time from February 19, 2020. The 2021 Euro Term Loan is a senior unsecured obligation of CME BV, and is
unconditionally guaranteed by CME Ltd. and by Time Warner and certain of its subsidiaries.
Reimbursement Agreement and Guarantee Fees
In connection with Time Warner’s guarantees of the 2018 Euro Term Loan, the 2019 Euro Term Loan and 2021 Euro Term Loan (collectively, the “Euro Term Loans”), we entered into a
reimbursement agreement (as amended, the “Reimbursement Agreement") with Time Warner. The Reimbursement Agreement provides for the payment of guarantee fees (collectively, the
"Guarantee Fees") to Time Warner as consideration for those guarantees, and the reimbursement to Time Warner of any amounts paid by them under any guarantee or through any loan purchase
right exercised by it. The loan purchase right allows Time Warner to purchase any amount outstanding under the Euro Term Loans from the lenders following an event of default under the Euro
Term Loans or the Reimbursement Agreement. The Reimbursement Agreement is jointly and severally guaranteed by both our 100% owned subsidiary Central European Media Enterprises
N.V. ("CME NV") and CME BV and is secured by a pledge over 100% of the outstanding shares of each of CME NV and CME BV. The covenants and events of default under the
Reimbursement Agreement are substantially the same as under the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility (described below).
We pay Guarantee Fees to Time Warner based on the amounts outstanding on the Euro Term Loans calculated on a per annum basis and on our consolidated net leverage (as defined in the
Reimbursement Agreement) as shown in the table below:
Consolidated Net Leverage
≥ 7.0x
< 7.0x
- 6.0x
Cash Rate (1)
PIK Fee Rate
Total Rate (2)
5.00%
5.00%
5.00%
5.00%
3.50%
2.25%
1.00%
—%
8.50%
7.25%
- 5.0x
< 6.0x
< 5.0x
(1) Includes cash paid for interest for the Euro Term Loans and the related customary hedging arrangements.
(2) If we reduce our long-term debt to less than EUR 815.0 million , subject to certain adjustments in respect of specified debt repayments, prior to September 30, 2018, a 50 basis point
6.00%
5.00%
reduction in the all-in rate would be applied.
Our consolidated net leverage as at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 was 5.4x and 6.9x , respectively. For the year s ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , we recognized US$
46.0 million , US$ 52.7 million and US$ 6.1 million , respectively, of Guarantee Fees as interest expense in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income / loss.
The Guarantee Fees relating to the 2018 Euro Term Loan and the 2019 Euro Term Loan are payable semi-annually in arrears on each May 1 and November 1. The Guarantee Fees relating to the
2021 Euro Term Loan are payable semi-annually in arrears on each June 1 and December 1. The first 5.0% of the all-in rate for each facility (including the base rate and the rate paid pursuant to
the hedging arrangements) must be paid in cash and the remainder is payable at our election in cash or in kind.
55
Index
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
The Guarantee Fees paid in kind are presented as a component of other non-current liabilities (see Note 11, "Other Liabilities" ) and bear interest per annum at their respective Guarantee Fee
rate (as set forth in the table below). Guarantee Fees paid in cash are included in cash flows from operating activities in our consolidated statements of cash flows.
Interest Rate Summary
2018 Euro Term Loan
2019 Euro Term Loan
2021 Euro Term Loan
2021 Revolving Credit Facility (1)
(1) As at December 31, 2017 , the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility was undrawn.
(2) Based on the three month LIBOR of 1.69% as at December 31, 2017 .
2021 Revolving Credit Facility
Base Rate
1.50%
1.50%
1.50%
8.69% (2)
Rate Fixed
Pursuant to
Interest Rate
Hedges
0.14%
0.31%
0.28%
—
Guarantee Fee
Rate
4.36%
4.19%
4.22%
—
All-in Borrowing
Rate
6.00%
6.00%
6.00%
8.69%
We had no balance outstanding under the US$ 115.0 million revolving credit facility (the “2021 Revolving Credit Facility”) as at December 31, 2017 . The available amount decreased to US$
50.0 million from January 1, 2018.
The 2021 Revolving Credit Facility bears interest at a rate per annum based on, at our option, an alternate base rate plus 6.0% or an amount equal to the greater of (i) an adjusted LIBO rate and
(ii) 1.0% , plus, in each case, 7.0% , with the first 5.0% paid in cash and the remainder payable at our election in cash or in kind by adding such accrued interest to the applicable principal
amount outstanding under the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility. The interest rate on the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility is determined on the basis of our net leverage ratio (as defined in the
Reimbursement Agreement) and ranges from LIBOR (subject to a floor of 1.0% ) plus 9.0% if our net leverage is greater than or equal to seven times, to LIBOR (subject to a floor of 1.0% )
plus 6.0% per annum if our net leverage ratio is less than five times. The maturity date of the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility is February 19, 2021. When drawn, the 2021 Revolving Credit
Facility permits prepayment at our option in whole or in part without penalty.
The 2021 Revolving Credit Facility is jointly and severally guaranteed by CME NV and CME BV and is secured by a pledge over 100% of the outstanding shares of each of CME NV and
CME BV. The 2021 Revolving Credit Facility agreement contains limitations on CME’s ability to incur indebtedness, incur guarantees, grant liens, pay dividends or make other distributions,
enter into certain affiliate transactions, consolidate, merge or effect a corporate reconstruction, make certain investments acquisitions and loans, and conduct certain asset sales. The agreement
also contains maintenance covenants in respect of interest cover, cash flow cover and total leverage ratios, and has covenants in respect of incurring indebtedness, the provision of guarantees,
making investments and disposals, granting security and certain events of defaults.
Other Credit Facilities and Capital Lease Obligations
Other credit facilities and capital lease obligations comprised the following at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 :
Credit facilities (1) – (3)
Capital leases
Total credit facilities and capital leases
Less: current maturities
Total non-current credit facilities and capital leases
December 31, 2017
December 31, 2016
$
$
— $
9,487
9,487
(2,960)
6,527 $
—
3,427
3,427
(1,228)
2,199
(1) We have a cash pooling arrangement with Bank Mendes Gans (“BMG”), a subsidiary of ING Bank N.V. (“ING”), which enables us to receive credit throughout the group in respect of
cash balances which our subsidiaries deposit with BMG. Cash deposited by our subsidiaries with BMG is pledged as security against the drawings of other subsidiaries up to the amount
deposited.
As at December 31, 2017 , we had deposits of US$ 12.4 million in and no drawings on the BMG cash pool. Interest is earned on deposits at the relevant money market rate. As at
December 31, 2016 , we had deposits of US$ 16.4 million in and no drawings on the BMG cash pool.
(2) As at December 31, 2017 , there were CZK 127.2 million (approximately US$ 6.0 million ) of receivables factored on a non-recourse basis under a CZK 575.0 million (approximately US$
27.0 million ) factoring framework agreement with Factoring Ceska Sporitelna (“FCS”) that were derecognized from the consolidated balance sheet. Under this facility, up to CZK 575.0
million (approximately US$ 27.0 million ) of receivables from certain customers in the Czech Republic may be factored on a recourse or non-recourse basis. The facility has a factoring fee
of 0.19% of any factored receivable and bears interest at one-month PRIBOR plus 0.95% per annum for the period that receivables are factored and outstanding.
(3) As at December 31, 2017 there were RON 99.8 million (approximately US$ 25.6 million ) of receivables factored under a factoring framework agreement with Global Funds IFN S.A that
were derecognized from the consolidated balance sheet. Under this facility, receivables from certain customers in Romania may be factored on a non-recourse basis. The facility has a
factoring fee of 4.0% of any factored receivable and bears interest at 6.0% per annum from the date the receivables are factored to the due date of the factored receivable.
56
Index
Total Group
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
At December 31, 2017 , the maturity of our long-term and credit facilities was as follows:
2018 (1)
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023 and thereafter
Total long-debt and credit facilities
Debt issuance costs
Carrying amount of long-debt and credit facilities
$
$
240,819
282,238
—
562,232
—
—
1,085,289
(6,102)
1,079,187
(1) On February 5, 2018, we entered into an amendment to extend the maturity date of the 2018 Euro Term Loan from November 1, 2018 to May 1, 2019. On February 6, 2018, we paid EUR
50.0 million (approximately US$ 61.6 million as at February 6, 2018 rates) of the outstanding principal balance of the 2018 Euro Term Loan (see Note 24, "Subsequent Events" ).
Capital Lease Commitments
We lease certain of our office and broadcast facilities as well as machinery and equipment under various leasing arrangements. The future minimum lease payments, by year and in the
aggregate, under capital leases with initial or remaining non-cancellable lease terms in excess of one year, consisted of the following at December 31, 2017 :
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023 and thereafter
Total undiscounted payments
Less: amount representing interest
Present value of net minimum lease payments
6. PROGRAM RIGHTS
Program rights comprised the following at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 :
Program rights:
Acquired program rights, net of amortization
Less: current portion of acquired program rights
Total non-current acquired program rights
Produced program rights – Feature Films:
Released, net of amortization
Produced program rights – Television Programs:
Released, net of amortization
Completed and not released
In production
Development and pre-production
Total produced program rights
Total non-current acquired program rights and produced program rights
57
$
$
3,238
2,828
2,516
1,294
2
—
9,878
(391)
9,487
December 31, 2017
December 31, 2016
$
$
161,929 $
(69,706)
92,223
939
49,888
9,987
28,971
162
89,947
182,170 $
146,070
(69,662)
76,408
1,039
43,970
2,592
19,109
310
67,020
143,428
Index
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
7. ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE
Accounts receivable comprised the following at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 :
Third-party customers
Less: allowance for bad debts and credit notes
Total accounts receivable
December 31, 2017
December 31, 2016
$
$
168,805 $
(9,902)
158,903 $
149,957
(8,586)
141,371
Bad debt expense for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 was US$ 1.9 million , US$ 3.7 million , and US$ 2.3 million , respectively.
8. OTHER ASSETS
Other current and non-current assets comprised the following at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 :
Current:
Prepaid acquired programming
Other prepaid expenses
VAT recoverable
Income taxes recoverable
Other
Total other current assets
Non-current:
Capitalized debt costs
Deferred tax
Other
Total other non-current assets
December 31, 2017
December 31, 2016
22,579 $
7,616
650
109
2,152
33,106 $
19,123
4,610
635
166
3,007
27,541
December 31, 2017
December 31, 2016
12,947 $
2,964
958
16,869 $
15,019
4,550
1,704
21,273
$
$
$
$
Capitalized debt costs are being amortized over the term of the 2021 Revolving Credit Facility using the straight-line method, which approximates the effective interest method.
9. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Property, plant and equipment comprised the following at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 :
December 31, 2017
December 31, 2016
Land and buildings
Machinery, fixtures and equipment
Other equipment
Software
Construction in progress
Total cost
Less: accumulated depreciation
Total net book value
Assets held under capital leases (included in the above)
Machinery, fixtures and equipment
Total cost
Less: accumulated depreciation
Total net book value
$
$
$
$
86,480 $
195,682
16,121
53,143
3,026
354,452
(250,804)
103,648 $
14,193 $
14,193
(5,151)
9,042 $
72,820
160,097
13,682
40,627
5,311
292,537
(203,457)
89,080
6,338
6,338
(2,579)
3,759
Depreciation expense for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 was US$ 27.0 million , US$ 23.1 million and US$ 21.3 million , respectively.
58
Index
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
The movement in the net book value of property, plant and equipment during the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 is comprised of:
Opening balance
Additions
Disposals
Depreciation
Foreign currency movements
Ending balance
10. ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AND ACCRUED LIABILITIES
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities comprised the following at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 :
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
Related party accounts payable
Programming liabilities
Related party programming liabilities
Duties and other taxes payable
Accrued staff costs
Accrued interest payable
Related party accrued interest payable (including Guarantee Fees)
Income taxes payable
Other accrued liabilities
Total accounts payable and accrued liabilities
11. OTHER LIABILITIES
Other current and non-current liabilities comprised the following at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 :
Current:
Deferred revenue
Legal provisions
Other
Total other current liabilities
Non-current:
Deferred tax
Related party commitment fee payable (1)
Related party Guarantee Fee payable (Note 5)
Other
Total other non-current liabilities
For The Year Ended December 31,
2017
89,080 $
27,442
(32)
(26,991)
14,149
103,648 $
2016
87,943
27,203
(88)
(23,106)
(2,872)
89,080
December 31, 2017
December 31, 2016
53,408 $
252
16,923
20,027
8,769
18,430
3,326
6,273
14,018
2,467
143,893 $
45,037
194
26,603
17,126
10,325
16,476
2,935
9,588
5,091
1,003
134,378
December 31, 2017
December 31, 2016
5,675 $
2,907
698
9,280 $
4,979
2,412
1,076
8,467
December 31, 2017
December 31, 2016
20,569 $
10,765
58,855
5,065
95,254 $
19,710
9,905
34,492
3,856
67,963
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
(1) Represents the commitment fee ("Commitment Fee") payable to Time Warner, including accrued interest, in respect of its obligation under a commitment letter dated November 14, 2014
between Time Warner and us whereby Time Warner agreed to provide or assist with arranging a loan facility to repay our 5.0% senior convertible notes at maturity in November 2015. The
Commitment Fee is payable by November 1, 2019, the maturity date of the 2019 Euro Term Loan, or earlier if the repayment of the 2019 Euro Term Loan is accelerated. The Commitment
Fee bears interest at 8.5% per annum and such interest is payable in arrears on each May 1 and November 1, and may be paid in cash or in kind, at our election.
59
Index
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
12. CONVERTIBLE REDEEMABLE PREFERRED SHARES
200,000 shares of our Series B Convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock, par value US$ 0.08 per share (the “Series B Preferred Shares”) were issued and outstanding as at December 31, 2017
and 2016 . As at December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the carrying value of the Series B Preferred Shares was US$ 264.6 million and US$ 254.9 million , respectively. The Series B Preferred Shares
are held by Time Warner Media Holdings B.V. ("TW Investor"). As of December 31, 2017 , the 200,000 shares of Series B preferred stock were convertible into approximately 109.2 million
shares of Class A common stock.
The initial stated value of the Series B Preferred Shares of US$ 1,000 per share accretes at an annual rate of 3.75% , compounded quarterly, from June 25, 2016 to June 24, 2018. We have the
right to pay cash to the holder in lieu of any further accretion. Each Series B Preferred Share may, at the holder's option, be converted into the number of shares of our Class A common stock
determined by dividing (i) the accreted stated value plus accrued but unpaid dividends, if any, in each case as of the conversion date, by (ii) the conversion price, which was approximately US$
2.42 at December 31, 2017 , but is subject to adjustment from time to time pursuant to customary weighted-average anti-dilution provisions with respect to our issuances of equity or equity-
linked securities at a price below the then-applicable conversion price (excluding any securities issued under our benefit plans at or above fair market value). We have the right to redeem the
Series B Preferred Shares in whole or in part upon 30 days' written notice. The redemption price of each outstanding Series B Preferred Share is equal to its accreted stated value plus accrued
but unpaid dividends, if any, in each case as of the redemption date specified in the redemption notice. After receipt of a redemption notice, each holder of Series B Preferred Shares will have
the right to convert, prior to the date of redemption, all or part of such Series B Preferred Shares to be redeemed by us into shares of our Class A common stock in accordance with the terms of
conversion described above.
Holders of the Series B Preferred Shares have no voting rights on any matter presented to holders of any class of our capital stock, with the exception that they may vote with holders of shares
of our Class A common stock (i) with respect to a change of control event or (ii) as provided by our Bye-laws or applicable Bermuda law. Holders of Series B Preferred Shares will participate in
any dividends declared or paid on our Class A common stock on an as-converted basis. The Series B Preferred Shares will rank pari passu with our Series A Convertible Preferred Stock and
senior to all other equity securities of the Company in respect of payment of dividends and distribution of assets upon liquidation. The Series B Preferred Shares have such other rights, powers
and preferences as are set forth in the Certificate of Designation for the Series B Preferred Shares.
We concluded that the Series B Preferred Shares were not considered a liability and that the embedded conversion feature in the Series B Preferred Shares was clearly and closely related to the
host contract and therefore did not need to be bifurcated. The Series B Preferred Shares are required to be classified outside of permanent equity because such shares can be redeemed for cash in
certain circumstances. The Series B Preferred Shares are carried on the balance sheet at redemption value. As the Series B Preferred Shares are redeemable, we have accreted changes in the
redemption value since issuance. For the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , we recognized accretion on the Series B Preferred Shares of US$ 9.7 million , US$ 13.7 million and
US$ 17.3 million , respectively, with corresponding decreases in additional paid-in capital.
13. EQUITY
Preferred Stock
5,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock were authorized as at December 31, 2017 and 2016 .
One share of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock (the “Series A Preferred Share”) was issued and outstanding as at December 31, 2017 and 2016 . The Series A Preferred Share is convertible
into 11,211,449 shares of Class A common stock on the date that is 61 days after the date on which the ownership of our outstanding shares of Class A common stock by a group that includes
TW Investor and its affiliates would not be greater than 49.9% . The Series A Preferred Share is entitled to one vote per each share of Class A common stock into which it is convertible and has
such other rights, powers and preferences, including potential adjustments to the number of shares of Class A common stock to be issued upon conversion, as are set forth in the Certificate of
Designation for the Series A Preferred Share.
200,000 shares of Series B Preferred Shares were issued and outstanding as at December 31, 2017 and 2016 . (see Note 12, "Convertible Redeemable Preferred Shares" ). As of December 31,
2017 , the 200,000 Series B Preferred Shares were convertible into approximately 109.2 million shares of Class A common stock.
Class A and B Common Stock
440,000,000 shares of Class A common stock and 15,000,000 shares of Class B common stock were authorized as at December 31, 2017 and 2016 . The rights of the holders of Class A
common stock and Class B common stock are identical except for voting rights. The shares of Class A common stock are entitled to one vote per share and the shares of Class B common stock
are entitled to ten votes per share. Shares of Class B common stock are convertible into shares of Class A common stock on a one -for- one basis for no additional consideration. Holders of each
class of shares are entitled to receive dividends and upon liquidation or dissolution are entitled to receive all assets available for distribution to holders of our common stock. Under our bye-
laws, the holders of each class have no preemptive or other subscription rights and there are no redemption or sinking fund provisions with respect to such shares.
There were 145.5 million and 143.4 million shares of Class A common stock outstanding at December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively, and no shares of Class B common stock outstanding at
December 31, 2017 or 2016 .
As at December 31, 2017 , TW Investor owns 42.2% of the outstanding shares of Class A common stock and has a 46.3% voting interest in the Company due to its ownership of the Series A
Preferred Share.
Warrants
On May 2, 2014, we issued 114,000,000 warrants in connection with a rights offering. Each warrant may be exercised until May 2, 2018 and entitles the holder thereof to receive one share of
our Class A common stock at an exercise price of US$ 1.00 per share in cash. During the year ended December 31, 2017 , 1,148,469 warrants were exercised resulting in net proceeds to us of
approximately US$ 1.1 million . As at December 31, 2017 , 105,854,576 warrants remained outstanding. Time Warner and TW Investor collectively hold 100,926,996 of these warrants. The
warrants are classified in additional paid-in capital, a component of equity, and are not subject to subsequent revaluation.
60
Index
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
The movement in accumulated other comprehensive loss during the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 comprised the following:
BALANCE December 31, 2014
Other comprehensive income / (loss) before reclassifications:
Foreign exchange loss on intercompany loans (1)
Reclassified to net income upon sale of subsidiaries
Currency translation adjustment
Change in the fair value of hedging instruments
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss:
Changes in fair value reclassified to interest expense
Net other comprehensive loss
BALANCE December 31, 2015
Other comprehensive income / (loss) before reclassifications:
Foreign exchange gain on intercompany loans (1)
Foreign exchange loss on the Series B Preferred Shares
Currency translation adjustment
Change in the fair value of hedging instruments
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss:
Changes in fair value reclassified to interest expense
Net other comprehensive income / (loss)
BALANCE December 31, 2016
Other comprehensive income / (loss) before reclassifications:
Foreign exchange gain on intercompany loans (1)
Foreign exchange gain on the Series B Preferred Shares
Currency translation adjustment
Change in the fair value of hedging instruments
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss:
Changes in fair value reclassified to interest expense
Changes in fair value reclassified to other non-operating income, net (2)
Net other comprehensive income
BALANCE December 31, 2017
$
$
$
$
Currency translation
adjustment, net
Unrealized (loss) / gain on
derivative instruments
designated as hedging
instruments
TOTAL
Accumulated Other
Comprehensive Loss
(169,028) $
(581) $
(169,609)
(88,997)
19,136
(2,100)
—
—
(71,961)
(240,989) $
8,848
(19,412)
12,016
—
—
1,452
(239,537) $
11,326
33,444
10,511
—
—
—
55,281
(184,256) $
—
—
—
(1,418)
579
(839)
(1,420) $
—
—
—
(5,447)
2,416
(3,031)
(4,451) $
—
—
—
(1,942)
2,764
447
1,269
(3,182) $
(88,997)
19,136
(2,100)
(1,418)
579
(72,800)
(242,409)
8,848
(19,412)
12,016
(5,447)
2,416
(1,579)
(243,988)
11,326
33,444
10,511
(1,942)
2,764
447
56,550
(187,438)
(1) Represents foreign exchange gains on intercompany loans that are of a long-term investment nature which are reported in the same manner as translation adjustments.
(2) We expect to repay the 2018 Euro Term Loan with the expected proceeds from the Divestment Transaction and have dedesignated the related hedging instruments during the third quarter of
2017. Dedesignation precludes recognition of the effective portion of the changes in fair value within accumulated other comprehensive income / loss. All related changes in fair value and
those previously recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income / loss are recognized in other non-operating income, net in our consolidated statements of operations and
comprehensive income / loss. See Note 14, "Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measurements" .
61
Index
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
14. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
ASC 820, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosure”, establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to those valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives the highest
priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements). The three
levels of the fair value hierarchy are:
Basis of Fair Value Measurement
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted instruments.
Quoted prices in markets that are not considered to be active or financial instruments for which all significant inputs are observable, either directly or indirectly.
Prices or valuations that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable.
A financial instrument’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of any input that is significant to the fair value measurement.
We evaluate the position of each financial instrument measured at fair value in the hierarchy individually based on the valuation methodology we apply. The carrying amount of financial
instruments, including cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, and accounts payable and accrued liabilities, approximate their fair value due to the short-term nature of these items. The
fair value of our long-term debt is included in Note 5, "Long-term Debt and Other Financing Arrangements" .
Hedging Activities
Cash Flow Hedges of Interest Rate Risk
We are party to interest rate swap agreements to mitigate our exposure to interest rate fluctuations on the outstanding principal amount of the Euro Term Loans. These interest rate swaps,
designated as cash flow hedges, provide us with variable-rate cash receipts in exchange for fixed-rate payments over the lives of the agreements, with no exchange of the underlying notional
amount. These instruments are carried at fair value on our consolidated balance sheets as other current and other non-current liabilities based on their maturity, and the effective portion of the
changes in the fair value is recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income / loss and subsequently reclassified to interest expense when the hedged item affects earnings. The ineffective
portion of changes in the fair value is recognized immediately in other non-operating income, net in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income / loss. For the years
ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 and 2015 , we did not recognize any charges related to hedge ineffectiveness.
Information relating to financial instruments is as follows:
Trade Date
Number of
Contracts
Description
Aggregate Notional
Amount
Maturity Date
Objective
Fair Value as at
December 31, 2017
April 5, 2016
April 5, 2016
November 10, 2015
5
4
3
Interest rate swap EUR
468,800
February 21, 2021
Interest rate swap EUR
200,800
November 1, 2018
Interest rate swap EUR
235,335
November 1, 2019
Interest rate hedge underlying 2021
Euro Term Loan $
Interest rate hedge underlying 2018
Euro Term Loan $
Interest rate hedge underlying 2019
Euro Term Loan $
(1,795)
(292)
(1,512)
We value the interest rate swap agreements using a valuation model which calculates the fair value on the basis of the net present value of the estimated future cash flows. The most significant
input used in the valuation model is the expected EURIBOR-based yield curve. These instruments were allocated to Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy because the critical inputs to this model,
including current interest rates, relevant yield curves and the known contractual terms of the instruments, were readily observable.
In August 2017, we settled in part the interest rate swaps underlying the 2018 Euro Term Loan to align with the EUR 50.0 million reduction of the principal balance of that loan following the
repayment on August 1, 2017 (see Note 5, "Long-term Debt and Other Financing Arrangements" ). Changes in fair value for the settled portion of these interest rate swaps is recognized within
other non-operating income, net in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income / loss.
The expected proceeds from the sale of the Croatia and Slovenia segments will be used to satisfy amounts owing in respect of the 2018 Euro Term Loan (see Note 5, "Long-term Debt and Other
Financing Arrangements" ). The related interest rate swap maturing November 1, 2018 was dedesignated which precludes recognition of the effective portion of the changes in fair value within
accumulated other comprehensive income / loss. All related fair value adjustments, including those previously recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income / loss, are recognized in
other non-operating income, net in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income / loss (see Note 13, "Equity" ).
Foreign Currency Risk
From time to time, we have entered into forward foreign exchange contracts to reduce our exposure to movements in foreign exchange rates related to contractual payments under certain dollar-
denominated agreements. As at December 31, 2017 , we had no forward foreign exchange contracts outstanding.
62
Index
Fair Value of Derivatives
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
The change in fair value of derivatives not recognized within accumulated other comprehensive income / loss comprised the following for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 :
(Loss) / gain on currency swaps
Loss on interest rate swaps
Change in fair value of derivatives
15. INTEREST EXPENSE
Interest expense comprised the following for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 :
Interest on long-term debt and other financing arrangements
Amortization of capitalized debt issuance costs
Amortization of debt issuance discount
Total interest expense
For The Year Ended December 31,
2017
(1,380)
$
(403)
(1,783)
$
2016
(10,213) $
—
(10,213) $
For The Year Ended December 31,
2017
64,855
$
5,778
—
70,633
$
2016
89,602 $
8,842
12,945
111,389 $
2015
4,848
—
4,848
2015
95,419
15,118
41,230
151,767
$
$
$
$
We paid cash interest (including mandatory cash-pay Guarantee Fees) of US$ 40.6 million , US$ 50.6 million and US$ 15.0 million during the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 ,
respectively. In addition, we paid US$ 1.7 million and US$ 7.5 million of Guarantee Fees in cash during the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively, for which we had the
option to pay in kind. Interest expense related to a portion of the 2018 Euro Term Loan has been allocated to results from discontinued operations (see Note 3, "Discontinued Operations and
Assets Held for Sale" ).
16. OTHER NON-OPERATING INCOME / EXPENSE
Other non-operating income / expense comprised the following for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 :
Interest income
Foreign currency exchange gain / (loss), net
Change in fair value of derivatives (Note 14)
Other income / (expense), net
Total other non-operating income / (expense)
17. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION
For The Year Ended December 31,
2017
523
$
17,185
(1,783)
396
2016
573 $
7,149
(10,213)
417
16,321
$
(2,074)
$
2015
426
(11,550)
4,848
(17,333)
(23,609)
$
$
Under our 2015 Stock Incentive Plan (the "2015 Plan"), 6,000,000 shares of Class A common stock are authorized for grants of stock options, restricted stock units ("RSU"), restricted stock and
stock appreciation rights to employees and non-employee directors. In addition, any shares available under our Amended and Restated Stock Incentive Plan (which expired on June 1, 2015),
including in respect of any awards that expire, terminate or are forfeited, will be available for awards under the 2015 Plan. Under the 2015 Plan, awards are made to employees and directors at
the discretion of the Compensation Committee. Any awards previously issued under the Amended and Restated Stock Incentive Plan will continue to be governed by the terms of that plan.
The charge for stock-based compensation in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income / loss was as follows:
Stock-based compensation expense from continuing operations
Stock-based compensation expense from discontinued operations (1)
(1) All stock-based compensation expense from discontinued operations relate to employees of Croatia and Slovenia.
63
For The Year Ended December 31,
$
2017
4,280
$
132
2016
3,383 $
127
2015
2,311
128
Index
Stock Options
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
Grants of options allow the holders to purchase shares of Class A common stock at an exercise price, which is generally the market price prevailing at the date of the grant, with vesting between
one and four years after the awards are granted. A summary of option activity for the year ended December 31, 2017 is presented below:
Outstanding at December 31, 2016
Outstanding at December 31, 2017
Vested or expected to vest at December 31, 2017
Exercisable at December 31, 2017
Weighted Average
Exercise Price per
Share
Weighted Average
Remaining
Contractual Term
(years)
Aggregate Intrinsic
Value
2.32
2.32
2.32
2.31
8.58 $
7.58 $
7.58 $
7.51 $
453
4,677
4,677
2,113
Shares
2,011,392 $
2,011,392 $
2,011,392 $
902,848 $
When options are vested, holders may exercise them at any time up to the maximum contractual life of the instrument which is specified in the option agreement. At December 31, 2017 , the
maximum life of options that were issued under the 2015 Plan was ten years . Upon providing the appropriate written notification, holders pay the exercise price and receive shares. Shares
delivered in respect of stock option exercises are newly issued shares.
The fair value of stock options is estimated on the grant date using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model and recognized ratably over the requisite service period as a component of selling,
general and administrative expenses. The aggregate intrinsic value (the difference between the stock price on the last day of trading of the fourth quarter of 2017 and the exercise prices
multiplied by the number of in-the-money options) represents the total intrinsic value that would have been received by the option holders had they exercised all in-the-money options as at
December 31, 2017 . This amount changes based on the fair value of our Class A common stock.
There were no options granted during the year ended December 31, 2017 .
As at December 31, 2017 , there was US$ 1.2 million unrecognized compensation expense related to stock options which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.6
years .
The following table summarizes information about stock option activity during 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 :
2017
2016
2015
Outstanding at January 1
Awards granted
Awards forfeited
Awards expired
Shares
2,011,392 $
—
—
—
Outstanding at December 31
2,011,392 $
Restricted Stock Units
Weighted Average
Exercise Price (per
share)
2.32
—
—
—
2.32
Shares
1,666,000 $
411,392
—
(66,000)
2,011,392 $
Weighted Average
Exercise Price (per
share)
3.53
2.46
—
33.66
2.32
Shares
155,000 $
1,600,000
(20,000)
(69,000)
1,666,000 $
Weighted Average
Exercise Price (per
share)
29.88
2.29
23.12
28.23
3.53
Each RSU represents a right to receive one share of Class A common stock of the Company for each RSU that vests in accordance with a time-based vesting schedule, generally between one to
four years from the date of grant. Upon vesting, shares of Class A common stock are issued from authorized but unissued shares. Holders of RSU awards are not entitled to receive cash dividend
equivalents and are not entitled to vote. The grant date fair value of RSUs is calculated as the closing price of our Class A common shares on the date of grant and presented as a component of
selling, general and administrative expenses.
The following table summarizes information about unvested RSUs as at December 31, 2017 :
Unvested at December 31, 2016
Granted
Vested
Forfeited
Unvested at December 31, 2017
Number of
Shares / Units
Weighted-Average
Grant Date Fair Value
2,542,625 $
1,158,887
(931,867)
(75,582)
2,694,063 $
2.61
3.62
2.69
1.53
3.07
As at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 there were 719,109 and 958,812 , respectively, of unvested RSUs with performance conditions. No RSUs with performance conditions were
granted or forfeited during the year ended December 31, 2017 . As at December 31, 2017 , the intrinsic value of unvested RSUs was US$ 12.5 million . Total unrecognized compensation cost
related to unvested RSUs as at December 31, 2017 was US$ 4.6 million and is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.8 years .
64
Index
18. INCOME TAXES
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
As our investments are predominantly owned by Dutch holding companies, the components of the (provision) / credit for income taxes and of the income / (loss) before tax have been analyzed
between their Netherlands and non-Netherlands components. Similarly the Dutch corporate income tax rates have been used in the reconciliation of income taxes.
Income / (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes
The Netherlands and non-Netherlands components of income / (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes are:
Domestic
Foreign
Total
Total tax (provision) / credit for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 was allocated as follows:
Income tax (provision) / credit from continuing operations
Income tax provision from discontinued operations
Total tax (provision) / credit
(Provision) / Credit for Income Taxes
For The Year Ended December 31,
2017
(50,344)
$
125,880
75,536
$
2016
(66,540) $
(91,549)
(158,089) $
For The Year Ended December 31,
2017
(21,483)
$
(2,247)
(23,730)
$
2016
(6,336) $
(981)
(7,317) $
2015
(73,736)
(13,593)
(87,329)
2015
1,153
(547)
606
$
$
$
$
The Netherlands and non-Netherlands components of the (provision) / credit for income taxes from continuing operations consist of:
Current income tax provision:
Domestic
Foreign
Deferred tax (provision) / credit:
Domestic
Foreign
(Provision) / credit for income taxes
For The Year Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
$
$
— $
(21,252)
(21,252)
—
(231)
(231)
(21,483)
$
— $
(4,542)
(4,542)
—
(1,794)
(1,794)
(6,336) $
—
(10)
(10)
—
1,163
1,163
1,153
In 2017 , the net (provision) / credit for income taxes was more than the (provision) / credit computed at statutory rates primarily due to the expiration of tax loss carry-forwards and changes to
the valuation allowance for prior period losses where a future benefit is no longer expected. In 2016 and 2015 , the net (provision) / credit for income taxes is less than the (provision) / credit
computed at statutory tax rates primarily due to losses on which no tax benefit has been received.
Reconciliation of Effective Income Tax Rate
The following is a reconciliation of income taxes, calculated at statutory Netherlands rates, to the (provision) / credit for income taxes included in the accompanying consolidated statements of
operations and comprehensive income / loss for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 :
Income taxes at Netherlands rates (25%)
Jurisdictional differences in tax rates
Losses expired
Change in valuation allowance
Non-deductible expenses
Other
(Provision) / credit for income taxes
For The Year Ended December 31,
2017
(18,871)
$
10,018
(7,583)
(5,384)
(73)
410
(21,483)
$
$
$
2016
39,515 $
(38,176)
(1,813)
(5,249)
288
(901)
(6,336) $
2015
21,821
(12,440)
(2,890)
2,496
(1,731)
(6,103)
1,153
65
Index
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities
The following table shows the significant components included in deferred income taxes as at December 31, 2017 and 2016 :
Assets:
Tax benefit of loss carry-forwards and other tax credits
Programming rights
Property, plant and equipment
Accrued expenses
Other
Gross deferred tax assets
Valuation allowance
Net deferred tax assets
Liabilities:
Broadcast licenses, trademarks and customer relationships
Property, plant and equipment
Programming rights
Other
Total deferred tax liabilities
Net deferred income tax liability
Deferred tax is recognized on the consolidated balance sheet as follows:
Net non-current deferred tax assets
Net non-current deferred tax liabilities
Net deferred income tax liability
December 31, 2017
December 31, 2016
127,599 $
3,189
2,713
4,087
2,445
140,033
(127,794)
12,239 $
(24,078) $
(166)
(5,431)
(169)
(29,844)
(17,605) $
108,424
2,935
2,691
4,556
1,587
120,193
(106,601)
13,592
(22,017)
(142)
(6,508)
(85)
(28,752)
(15,160)
December 31, 2017
December 31, 2016
2,964 $
(20,569)
(17,605) $
4,550
(19,710)
(15,160)
$
$
$
$
$
$
We provided a valuation allowance against potential deferred tax assets of US$ 127.8 million and US$ 106.6 million as at December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively, since it has been
determined by management, based on the weight of all available evidence, that it is more likely than not that the benefits associated with these assets will not be realized.
During 2017 , we had the following movements on valuation allowances:
Balance at December 31, 2016
Created during the period
Utilized
Foreign exchange
Other
Balance at December 31, 2017
$
$
106,601
6,343
(959)
15,260
549
127,794
As of December 31, 2017 we had operating loss carry-forwards that will expire in the following periods:
Bulgaria
Czech Republic
The Netherlands
United Kingdom
Total
2018
2019
— $
— $
627
29,158
3
64,290
—
—
29,785
$
64,293
$
$
$
2020
2,586 $
—
50,911
—
53,497 $
2021
2022-26
Indefinite
— $
—
53,392
—
53,392 $
— $
—
309,861
—
309,861 $
—
—
—
1,726
1,726
The losses are subject to examination by the tax authorities and to restriction on their utilization. In particular, the losses can only be utilized against profits arising in the legal entity in which
they arose.
We have provided valuation allowances against most of the above loss carry-forwards. However, a valuation allowance has not been provided against the loss carry-forwards in our main
operating company in Bulgaria on the basis of future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences and taxable income from future trading. The tax benefits associated with the tax losses in
the United Kingdom were recognized following the adoption of the FASB guidance simplifying accounting for share-based payment transactions. However, a valuation allowance was also
recognized due to a lack of foreseeable future UK income.
66
Index
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
As at December 31, 2017 and 2016 , we had no undistributed earnings in subsidiaries giving rise to a temporary difference.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:
Balance at December 31, 2014
Decreases resulting from the expiry of the statute of limitations
Balance at December 31, 2015
Balance at December 31, 2016
Balance at December 31, 2017
$
$
53
(53)
—
—
—
We do not anticipate a material increase or decrease in unrecognized tax benefits within the next 12 months.
Our subsidiaries file income tax returns in the Netherlands and various other tax jurisdictions. As at December 31, 2017 , our subsidiaries are generally no longer subject to income tax
examinations for years before:
Tax Jurisdiction
Bulgaria
Czech Republic
The Netherlands
Romania
Slovak Republic
United Kingdom
Year
2013
2012
2015
2014
2010
2016
We recognize, when applicable, both accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations and
comprehensive income / loss. There were no significant interest or penalties accrued in the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 .
67
Index
19. EARNINGS PER SHARE
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
We determined that the Series B Preferred Shares are a participating security, and accordingly, our basic and diluted net income / loss per share is calculated using the two-class method. Under
the two-class method, basic net income / loss per common share is computed by dividing the net income available to common shareholders after deducting contractual amounts of accretion on
our Series B Preferred Shares and the income allocated to these shares by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted net income / loss per share is
computed by dividing the adjusted net income by the weighted-average number of dilutive shares outstanding during the period.
The components of basic and diluted earnings per share are as follows:
Income / (loss) from continuing operations
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
Less: preferred share accretion paid in kind (Note 12)
Less: income allocated to Series B Preferred Shares
Income / (loss) from continuing operations available to common shareholders, net of noncontrolling interest
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax (Note 3)
Net income / (loss) attributable to CME Ltd. available to common shareholders — basic
Effect of dilutive securities
Dilutive effect of Series B Preferred Shares
Net income / (loss) attributable to CME Ltd. available to common shareholders — diluted
Weighted average outstanding shares of common stock — basic (1)
Dilutive effect of common stock warrants, employee stock options and RSUs
Weighted average outstanding shares of common stock — diluted
Net income / (loss) per share:
Continuing operations — basic
Continuing operations — diluted
Discontinued operations — basic
Discontinued operations — diluted
Net income / (loss) attributable to CME Ltd. — basic
Net income / (loss) attributable to CME Ltd. — diluted
$
$
$
For The Year Ended December 31,
2017
54,053
$
341
(9,694)
(18,213)
26,487
(4,626)
21,861
2016
(164,425) $
306
(13,701)
—
(177,820)
(16,172)
(193,992)
2015
(86,176)
671
(17,272)
—
(102,777)
(29,396)
(132,173)
5,713
—
27,574
$
(193,992) $
—
(132,173)
155,846
80,558
236,404
151,017
—
151,017
146,866
—
146,866
$
0.17
0.15
(0.03)
(0.03)
0.14
0.12
(1.18) $
(1.18)
(0.10)
(0.10)
(1.28)
(1.28)
(0.70)
(0.70)
(0.20)
(0.20)
(0.90)
(0.90)
(1) For the purpose of computing basic earnings per share, the 11,211,449 shares of Class A common stock underlying the Series A Preferred Share are included in the weighted average
outstanding shares of common stock - basic, because the holder of the Series A Preferred Share is entitled to receive any dividends payable when dividends are declared by the Board of
Directors with respect to any shares of the common stock.
The following weighted-average, equity awards and convertible shares were excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share because their effect would have been anti-dilutive for the
periods presented:
Employee stock options
RSUs
Series B Preferred Shares
Total
For The Year Ended December 31,
2017
—
144
—
144
2016
2,011
1,219
105,167
108,397
2015
1,666
1,556
—
3,222
These instruments may become dilutive in the future. As set forth in the Certificate of Designation for the Series B Preferred Shares, the holders of our Series B Preferred Shares are not
contractually obligated to share in our losses.
68
Index
20. SEGMENT DATA
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
We manage our business on a geographical basis, with four operating segments: Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Romania and the Slovak Republic, which are also our reportable segments and
our main operating countries. These segments reflect how CME Ltd.’s operating performance is evaluated by our chief operating decision makers, who we have identified as our co-Chief
Executive Officers; how operations are managed by segment managers; and the structure of our internal financial reporting.
Our segments generate revenues primarily from the sale of advertising and sponsorship on our channels. This is supplemented by revenues from cable and satellite television service providers to
carry our channels on their platforms and from revenues through the sale of distribution rights to third parties. Intersegment revenues and profits have been eliminated in consolidation.
We evaluate our consolidated results and the performance of our segments based on net revenues and OIBDA (as defined below). We believe OIBDA is useful to investors because it provides a
meaningful representation of our performance as it excludes certain items that either do not impact our cash flows or the operating results of our operations. OIBDA is also used as a component
in determining management bonuses.
OIBDA includes amortization and impairment of program rights and is calculated as operating income / loss before depreciation, amortization of intangible assets, impairments of assets and
certain unusual or infrequent items that are not considered by our chief operating decision makers when evaluating our performance. Stock-based compensation and certain other items are not
allocated to our segments for purposes of evaluating their performance and therefore are not included in their respective OIBDA.
Below are tables showing our net revenues, OIBDA, total assets, capital expenditures and long-lived assets for our continuing operations by segment for the years ended December 31, 2017 ,
2016 and 2015 for consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income / loss data and consolidated statements of cash flow data; and as at December 31, 2017 and 2016 for
consolidated balance sheet data.
Net revenues:
Bulgaria
Czech Republic
Romania
Slovak Republic
Intersegment revenues (1)
Total net revenues
For The Year Ended December 31,
2017
77,341
$
209,041
191,244
97,721
(1,135)
574,212
$
2016
72,651 $
190,372
172,951
90,549
(349)
526,174 $
$
$
(1) Reflects revenues earned from the sale of content to other country segments in CME Ltd. All other revenues are third party revenues.
OIBDA:
Bulgaria
Czech Republic
Romania
Slovak Republic
Elimination
Total operating segments
Corporate
Total OIBDA
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment
Amortization of intangibles
Other items (1)
Operating income
Interest expense (Note 15)
Loss on extinguishment of debt (Note 5)
Other non-operating income / (expense), net (Note 16)
Income / (loss) before tax
For The Year Ended December 31,
2017
16,841
$
$
83,600
74,435
24,742
(8)
199,610
(34,078)
165,532
(26,991)
(8,592)
—
129,949
(70,633)
(101)
16,321
$
75,536
$
2016
12,242 $
77,018
62,016
15,947
5
167,228
(30,320)
136,908
(23,106)
(8,270)
—
105,532
(111,389)
(150,158)
(2,074)
(158,089) $
2015
73,090
182,636
157,578
84,434
(1,543)
496,195
2015
15,479
71,697
41,176
10,585
26
138,963
(29,521)
109,442
(21,327)
(12,050)
11,982
88,047
(151,767)
—
(23,609)
(87,329)
(1) Other items consists solely of the charges related to tax audits of our Romanian operations, which were accrued in the fourth quarter of 2014 and fully released in the third quarter of 2015.
69
Index
Total assets: (1)
Bulgaria
Czech Republic
Romania
Slovak Republic
Total operating segments
Corporate
Assets held for sale
Total assets
(1) Segment assets exclude any intercompany balances.
Capital Expenditures:
Bulgaria
Czech Republic
Romania
Slovak Republic
Total operating segments
Corporate
Total capital expenditures
Long-lived assets: (1)
Bulgaria
Czech Republic
Romania
Slovak Republic
Total operating segments
Corporate
Total long-lived assets
(1) Reflects property, plant and equipment, net.
Revenue by type:
Television advertising
Carriage fees and subscriptions
Other
Total net revenues
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
December 31, 2017
December 31, 2016
155,885 $
842,716
307,286
149,866
1,455,753
24,146
148,156
1,628,055 $
For The Year Ended December 31,
2017
4,584
$
10,449
6,639
1,963
23,635
1,270
24,905
$
2016
3,304 $
8,043
6,863
1,693
19,903
2,476
22,379 $
130,873
700,190
266,132
131,220
1,228,415
40,786
121,516
1,390,717
2015
3,517
10,982
5,794
2,921
23,214
3,440
26,654
December 31, 2017
December 31, 2016
7,863 $
46,146
28,515
17,450
99,974
3,674
103,648 $
For The Year Ended December 31,
2017
471,227
$
83,232
19,753
574,212
$
2016
435,096 $
71,331
19,747
526,174 $
6,280
39,529
22,796
15,326
83,931
5,149
89,080
2015
409,469
66,644
20,082
496,195
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
We do not rely on any single major customer or group of major customers.
70
Index
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
21. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Commitments
a) Programming Rights Agreements and Other Commitments
At December 31, 2017 , we had total commitments of US$ 99.1 million ( December 31, 2016 : US$ 114.3 million ) in respect of future programming, including contracts signed with license
periods starting after the balance sheet date. In addition, we have digital transmission obligations, future minimum operating lease payments for non-cancellable operating leases with remaining
terms in excess of one year (net of any sublease income) and other commitments as follows:
Programming purchase
obligations
Other commitments (1)
Operating leases
Capital expenditures
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023 and thereafter
Total
$
$
33,308 $
28,700
17,910
13,077
2,587
3,558
99,140 $
14,983 $
11,827
2,030
161
139
12
29,152 $
2,830 $
761
371
349
346
1,728
6,385 $
1,273
—
—
—
—
—
1,273
(1) Other commitments are primarily comprised of digital transmission commitments.
For the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , we incurred aggregate rent expense on all facilities of US$ 8.1 million , US$ 7.0 million and US$ 5.8 million , respectively.
Contingencies
Litigation
We are from time to time party to legal proceedings, arbitrations and regulatory proceedings arising in the normal course of our business operations, including the proceeding described below.
We evaluate, on a quarterly basis, developments in such matters and provide accruals for such matters, as appropriate. In making such decisions, we consider the degree of probability of an
unfavorable outcome and our ability to make a reasonable estimate of the amount of a loss. An unfavorable outcome in any such proceedings, if material, could have an adverse effect on our
business or consolidated financial statements.
In the fourth quarter of 2016, our Slovak subsidiary MARKIZA-SLOVAKIA, spol. s.r.o. (“Markiza”) was notified of claims that were filed in June 2016 in a court of first instance in Bratislava,
the Slovak Republic to collect amounts allegedly owing under four promissory notes. These four promissory notes were purportedly issued in June 2000 by Pavol Rusko in his personal capacity
and were purportedly guaranteed by Markiza under the signature of Mr. Rusko, who was an executive director of Markiza at that time as well as one of its shareholders. The notes purport to be
issued in favor of Marian Kocner, a controversial Slovak businessman, and to a former associate of Mr. Kocner, and were supposedly assigned several times, ultimately to Sprava a inkaso
zmeniek, s.r.o., a company owned by Mr. Kocner that is the plaintiff in these proceedings. Two of the notes allegedly matured in 2015 and the other two in 2016. The four notes purport to be in
the aggregate amount of approximately EUR 69.0 million .
Despite a random case assignment system in the Slovak Republic, claims in respect of three of the notes were initially assigned to the same judge. The judge who was assigned the claim in
respect of the fourth promissory note (in the amount of approximately EUR 26.0 million ) terminated proceedings in January 2017 because the plaintiff failed to pay court fees. The plaintiff
refiled this claim in June 2017; the judge who was assigned the refiled claim terminated proceedings in September after the plaintiff again failed to pay court fees. In responses to the claims in
respect of the other three promissory notes that were filed in August 2017, Mr. Rusko asserted that he signed the three notes in June 2000. We do not believe that the notes were signed in June
2000 or that any of the notes are authentic. We are vigorously defending the claims.
22. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
We consider our related parties to be our officers, directors and shareholders who have direct control and/or influence over the Company as well as other parties that can significantly influence
management. We have identified transactions with individuals or entities associated with Time Warner, which is represented on our Board of Directors and holds a 46.3% voting interest in
CME Ltd. as at December 31, 2017 , as material related party transactions.
Time Warner
Net revenues
Cost of revenues
Interest expense
$
For The Year Ended December 31,
2017
— $
18,870
51,952
2016
— $
17,362
91,134
2015
198
22,437
112,144
71
Index
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
Programming liabilities
Other accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Accrued interest payable (1)
Other non-current liabilities (2)
$
December 31, 2017
December 31, 2016
20,027 $
252
6,273
69,620
17,126
194
9,588
44,397
(1) Amount represents accrued Guarantee Fees for which we have not yet paid in cash or made an election to pay in kind. See Note 5, "Long-term Debt and Other Financing Arrangements" .
(2) Amount represents the Commitment Fee, as well as the Guarantee Fees for which we have made an election to pay in kind. See Note 5, "Long-term Debt and Other Financing
Arrangements" .
See Part III, Item 13, "Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence".
23. QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA
Selected quarterly financial data for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 is as follows:
Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income / Loss Data:
Net revenues
Cost of revenues
Operating income
(Loss) / income from continuing operations
(Loss) / income from discontinued operations, net of tax
Net (loss) / income
Net (loss) / income attributable to CME Ltd.
Net (loss) / income per share:
Continuing operations — basic
Continuing operations — diluted
Discontinued operations — basic
Discontinued operations — diluted
Net (loss) / income attributable to CME Ltd. — basic
Net (loss) / income attributable to CME Ltd. — diluted
Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income / Loss Data:
Net revenues
Cost of revenues
Operating income
(Loss) / income from continuing operations
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax
Net (loss) / income
Net (loss) / income attributable to CME Ltd.
Net (loss) / income per share:
Continuing operations — basic
Continuing operations — diluted
Discontinued operations — basic
Discontinued operations — diluted
Net (loss) / income attributable to CME Ltd. — basic
Net (loss) / income attributable to CME Ltd. — diluted
For the Year Ended December 31, 2017
First Quarter
(Unaudited)
Second Quarter
(Unaudited)
Third Quarter
(Unaudited)
Fourth Quarter
(Unaudited)
$
$
111,732 $
77,968
13,024
(5,982)
(5,292)
(11,274)
(11,065)
(0.05) $
(0.05)
(0.04)
(0.04)
(0.09)
(0.09)
146,895 $
80,081
43,153
25,265
2,533
27,798
27,935
0.09 $
0.07
0.01
0.00
0.10
0.07
119,431 $
77,606
16,022
(1,945)
(5,988)
(7,933)
(7,745)
(0.03) $
(0.03)
(0.04)
(0.04)
(0.07)
(0.07)
196,154
103,853
57,750
36,715
4,121
40,836
40,643
0.13
0.10
0.02
0.01
0.15
0.11
For the Year Ended December 31, 2016
First Quarter
(Unaudited)
Second Quarter
(Unaudited)
Third Quarter
(Unaudited)
Fourth Quarter
(Unaudited)
$
105,817
$
77,125
8,903
(34,878)
(5,816)
(40,694)
(40,435)
$
(0.27)
$
(0.27)
(0.04)
(0.04)
(0.31)
(0.31)
72
142,803 $
80,691
39,718
(139,148)
(2,101)
(141,249)
(141,317)
(0.96) $
(0.96)
(0.02)
(0.02)
(0.98)
(0.98)
107,527 $
73,276
11,450
(11,769)
(8,054)
(19,823)
(19,627)
(0.09) $
(0.09)
(0.05)
(0.05)
(0.14)
(0.14)
170,027
93,296
45,461
21,370
(201)
21,169
21,088
0.07
0.06
0.00
0.00
0.07
0.06
Index
24. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tabular amounts in US$ 000’s, except share and per share data)
On February 5, 2018, we entered into an amendment to the 2018 Euro Term Loan agreement with BNP Paribas, as administrative agent, Time Warner, as guarantor, and the lenders thereto in
order to extend the maturity date of the 2018 Euro Term Loan from November 1, 2018 to May 1, 2019. We have presented the amended 2018 Euro Term Loan under Long-term debt and other
financing arrangements on the 2017 balance sheet.
On February 6, 2018, we paid EUR 50.0 million (approximately US$ 61.6 million at February 6, 2018 rates) of the outstanding principal balance of the 2018 Euro Term Loan.
73
ITEM 9 CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None.
ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
We have established disclosure controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K is recorded, processed, summarized and
reported within the specified time periods and is designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed is accumulated and communicated to management, including the co-Chief
Executive Officers and the Chief Financial Officer to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
Our co-Chief Executive Officers and our Chief Financial Officer evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as defined in Rules 13a-15(e)
and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act as of December 31, 2017 and concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of that date.
Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. We have performed an assessment of the design and operating effectiveness
of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017 . This assessment was performed under the direction and supervision of our co-Chief Executive Officers and our Chief
Financial Officer, and utilized the framework established in “Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013)” issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway
Commission (COSO).
Based on that evaluation, we concluded that as of December 31, 2017 , our internal control over financial reporting was effective. Our independent registered public accounting firm, Ernst &
Young LLP, has audited our financial statements and issued a report on the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, which is included herein.
Changes in Internal Controls
There were no changes in our internal controls over financial reporting during the three month period ended December 31, 2017 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to
materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
74
Index
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and the Shareholders of Central European Media Enterprises Ltd.
Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited Central European Media Enterprises Ltd.’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated
Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) (the COSO criteria). In our opinion, Central European Media Enterprises
Ltd.’s (the Company) maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017, based on the COSO criteria.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated balance sheets of Central European
Media Enterprises Ltd. as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income / loss, equity and cash flows for each of the two years in
the period ended December 31, 2017, of the Company and our report dated February 8, 2018 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
Basis for Opinion
The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial
reporting included in the accompanying Annual Report on Form 10-K. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.
We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the
applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective
internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.
Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating
effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a
reasonable basis for our opinion.
Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial
statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that
(1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance
that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the
company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of
unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are
subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
London, United Kingdom
February 8, 2018
75
Index
ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION
On February 5, 2018, CME Ltd. entered into an amendment to the senior unsecured term credit facility agreement among CME Ltd., as borrower, BNP Paribas, as administrative agent, Time
Warner, as guarantor, and the lenders party thereto originally dated November 14, 2014 (included as Exhibit 10.27 to this Form 10-K), as amended (including by an amendment agreement dated
February 19, 2016 (included as Exhibit 10.31 to this Form 10-K) and a consent waiver and amendment agreement dated June 22, 2017 (included as Exhibit 10.41 to this Form 10-K)), to extend
the maturity date from November 1, 2018 to May 1, 2019.
PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
The information required by Item 10 is incorporated herein by reference to the sections entitled “Election of Directors,” “Executive Officers,” “Corporate Governance and Board of Director
Matters” and “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” in our Proxy Statement for the 2018 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The information required by Item 11 is incorporated herein by reference to the sections entitled “Compensation Discussion and Analysis”, “Summary Compensation Table”, “Compensation
Committee Report” and “Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation” in our Proxy Statement for the 2018 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders.
ITEM 12.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
The information required by Item 12 relating to the security ownership of certain beneficial owners and management is incorporated herein by reference to the section entitled “Security
Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management" in our Proxy Statement for the 2018 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders.
Equity Compensation Plan Information
The following table provides information as of December 31, 2017 about common stock that may be issued upon the exercise of options, warrants and rights under all of our existing equity
compensation plans.
Equity Compensation Plan Information
(a)
(b)
(c)
Number of securities to be issued upon
exercise of outstanding options, warrants
and rights
Weighted average exercise price of
outstanding options, warrants and rights
Number of securities remaining available for
future issuance under equity compensation
plans (excluding securities reflected in
column (a))
2,011,392
2,694,063
—
4,705,455
$2.32
n/a
—
$2.32
(1)
(1)
—
2,229,531
Plan Category
Equity compensation plans approved by
security holders:
Stock options
Restricted stock units
Equity compensation plans not approved by
security holders
Total
(1) There were 2,229,531 shares available for issuance under CME’s 2015 Stock Incentive Plan at December 31, 2017 after reflecting both stock options and restricted stock units in
column (a).
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE
The information required by Item 13 is incorporated herein by reference to the sections entitled “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions” and “Corporate Governance and Board of
Director Matters” in our Proxy Statement for the 2018 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders.
ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES
The information required by Item 14 is incorporated herein by reference to the section entitled “Selection of Auditors” in our Proxy Statement for the 2018 Annual General Meeting of
Shareholders.
76
Index
PART IV
ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
(a)(1) The following financial statements of Central European Media Enterprises Ltd. are included in Part II, Item 8 of this Report:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firms;
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 ;
Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income / Loss for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 ;
Consolidated Statements of Equity for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 ;
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 ; and
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
(a)(2) Financial Statement Schedule (included at page S-1 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K).
(a)(3) The following exhibits are included in this report:
77
Index
EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit Number
3.01*
Description
Memorandum of Association (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.01 to the Company's Registration Statement No. 3380344 on Form S-1 filed June 17, 1994).
3.02*
3.03*
3.04*
3.05*
3.06*
3.07*
3.08*
4.01*
4.02*
4.03*
4.04*
4.05*
4.06*
4.07*
4.08*
4.09*
10.01*+
10.02*+
Memorandum of Increase of Share Capital (incorporated by reference Exhibit 3.03 to Amendment No. 1 to the Company's Registration Statement No. 33-80344 on Form
S-1, filed August 19, 1994).
Memorandum of Reduction of Share Capital (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.04 to Amendment No. 2 to the Company's Registration Statement No. 33-80344 on
Form S-1, filed September 14, 1994).
Certificate of Deposit of Memorandum of Increase of Share Capital executed by the Registrar of Companies on May 20, 1997 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to
the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended September 30, 1997).
Certificate of Deposit of Memorandum of Increase of Share Capital executed by the Registrar of Companies on July 11, 2012 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.05 to
the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012).
Certificate of Deposit of Memorandum of Increase of Share Capital executed by the Registrar of Companies on July 3, 2013 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.02 to
the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2013).
Certificate of Deposit of Memorandum of Increase of Share Capital executed by the Registrar of Companies on April 28, 2014 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.02
to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2014).
Bye-Laws of Central European Media Enterprises Ltd., as amended and restated on April 14, 2014 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.01 to the Company's Quarterly
Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2014).
Specimen Class A Common Stock Certificate (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.01 to Amendment No. 1 to the Company's Registration Statement No. 33-80344 on
Form S-1, filed August 19, 1994).
Warrant Agreement, dated May 2, 2014, between Central European Media Enterprises Ltd. and American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC (as Warrant Agent)
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed May 5, 2014).
Private Unit Warrant Agreement, dated May 2, 2014, between Central European Media Enterprises Ltd. and American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 5, 2014).
Initial Warrant Agreement, dated May 2, 2014, between Central European Media Enterprises Ltd. and American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC (as Warrant
Agent) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 5, 2014).
Form of Warrant for Unit Warrants (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 5, 2014).
Registration Rights Agreement between the Company and Time Warner Holdings B.V., dated May 18, 2009 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.11 to the Company's
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009).
Registration Rights Agreement, by and among Ronald S. Lauder, RSL Capital LLC and Central European Media Enterprises Ltd., dated as of April 30, 2012
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 30, 2012).
Certificate of Designation of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock of Central European Media Enterprises Ltd., dated July 2, 2012 (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 3, 2012).
Certificate of Designation of the Series B Convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock of Central European Media Enterprises Ltd., issued on June 25, 2013 (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 25, 2013).
Central European Media Enterprises Ltd. Amended and Restated Stock Incentive Plan, as amended on June 13, 2012 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the
Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2012).
Central European Media Enterprises Ltd. 2015 Stock Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.01 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the
quarterly period ended June 30, 2015).
10.03*+
Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 13, 2012).
78
Index
Exhibit Number
10.04*+
10.05*+
10.06*+
10.07*+
10.08*+
10.09*+
10.10*+
10.11*+
10.12*
10.13*
10.14*
10.15*
10.16*
10.17*
10.18*
10.19*
10.20*
10.21*
10.22*
Description
Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement (time-based vesting) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.01 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for
the quarterly period ended June 30, 2014).
Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement (performance-based vesting) (for use from March 2015) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to the Company’s
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2016).
Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement (Directors’ Version) (for use from June 2015) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.02 to the Company’s Quarterly
Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2015).
Form of Employee Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement (for use from June 2015) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.03 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2015).
Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement (time-based vesting) (for use from March 2015) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.04 to the Company’s Quarterly
Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2015).
Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement (time-based vesting) (2015 Plan, for use from March 2016) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.11 to the
Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2016).
Form of Employee Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement (co-Chief Executive Officers version, 2015 Plan, for use from June 2015) (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.10 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal period ended December 31, 2016).
Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement (time-based vesting) (co-Chief Executive Officers version, 2015 Plan, for use from March 2016). (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.11 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal period ended December 31, 2016).
Investment Agreement between CME Media Enterprises B.V, and Top Tone Media Holdings Limited, dated April 22, 2010 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to
the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2010).
Subscription Agreement, by and between Central European Media Enterprises Ltd. and TW Media Holdings LLC, dated March 22, 2009 (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2009).
Sale and Purchase Agreement in respect of Pro TV S.A., Media Pro International S.A. and Media Vision S.R.L. among CME Investments B.V., Central European Media
Enterprises Ltd. and Adrian Sarbu, dated May 24, 2010 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly
period ended June 30, 2010).
Subscription and Equity Commitment Agreement, by and between Time Warner Media Holdings B.V. and the Company, dated as of April 30, 2012 (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 30, 2012).
Letter Agreement, by and among Time Warner Media Holdings B.V., the Company, RSL Savannah LLC, RSL Capital LLC, RSL Investments Corporation and Ronald S.
Lauder, dated as of April 30, 2012 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 30, 2012).
Subscription Agreement, by and among Ronald S. Lauder, RSL Capital LLC and the Company, dated as of April 30, 2012 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to
the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 30, 2012).
Indemnity Agreement, by and among Central European Media Enterprises Ltd., Ronald S. Lauder and RSL Savannah LLC, dated as of March 22, 2009 (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2009).
Investor Rights Agreement among the Company, Ronald S. Lauder, RSL Savannah LLC, RSL Investment LLC, RSL Investments Corporation and Time Warner Media
Holdings B.V., dated May 18, 2009 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.71 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31,
2009).
First Amendment to the Investor Rights Agreement, by and among the Company, Ronald S. Lauder, RSL Savannah LLC, RSL Capital LLC, RSL Investments
Corporation and Time Warner Media Holdings B.V., dated as of April 30, 2012 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K
filed on April 30, 2012).
Subscription Agreement, dated as of April 29, 2013, by and between Central European Media Enterprises Ltd. and Time Warner Media Holdings B.V. (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 29, 2013).
Letter Agreement, dated as of April 29, 2013, by and between RSL Savannah LLC, RSL Capital LLC, RSL Investments Corporation, Ronald S. Lauder and Time Warner
Media Holdings B.V. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 29, 2013).
79
Index
Exhibit Number
10.23*
10.24*
10.25*
10.26*
10.27*
10.28*
10.29*
10.30*
10.31*
10.32*
10.33*
10.34*
10.35*
10.36*
10.37*
10.38*
10.39*
Description
Framework Agreement, dated as of February 28, 2014, among Central European Media Enterprises Ltd., Time Warner Inc. and Time Warner Media Holdings B.V.
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-3 filed February 28, 2014).
Standby Purchase Agreement, dated as of March 24, 2014, between Central European Media Enterprises Ltd. and Time Warner Media Holdings B.V. (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed March 27, 2014).
Pledge Agreement on Shares in Central European Media Enterprises N.V., dated May 2, 2014, among Central European Media Enterprises Ltd. (as Pledgor), Time
Warner Inc. (as Pledgee) and Central European Media Enterprises N.V. (as the Company), with respect to the Time Warner Revolving Credit Facility (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.10 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 5, 2014).
Deed of Pledge of Shares (CME Media Enterprises B.V.), dated May 2, 2014, among Central European Media Enterprises N.V. (as Pledgor), Time Warner Inc. (as
Pledgee) and CME Media Enterprises B.V. (as the Company), with respect to the Time Warner Revolving Credit Facility (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to the
Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 5, 2014).
Credit Agreement dated as of November 14, 2014 among Central European Media Enterprises Ltd., BNP Paribas, as administrative agent, Time Warner Inc., as guarantor,
and the lenders party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report in Form 8-K filed on November 14, 2014).
Commitment Letter dated as of November 14, 2014 between Central European Media Enterprises Ltd. and Time Warner Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to
the Company's Current Report in Form 8-K filed on November 14, 2014).
Credit Agreement dated as of September 30, 2015 among Central European Media Enterprises Ltd., BNP Paribas, as administrative agent, Time Warner Inc., as guarantor,
and the lenders party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 1, 2015).
Credit Agreement dated as of February 19, 2016 among CME Media Enterprises B.V., as borrower, Central European Media Enterprises Ltd., as guarantor, BNP Paribas,
as administrative agent, Time Warner Inc., as guarantor, and the lenders party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on
Form 8-K filed on February 22, 2016).
Amendment dated as of February 19, 2016 to the Credit Agreement dated as of November 14, 2014, among Central European Media Enterprises Ltd., as borrower, BNP
Paribas, as administrative agent, Time Warner Inc., as guarantor, and the lenders party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company’s Current Report
on Form 8-K filed on February 22, 2016).
Amendment dated as of February 19, 2016 to the Credit Agreement dated as of September 30, 2015, among Central European Media Enterprises Ltd., as borrower, BNP
Paribas, as administrative agent, Time Warner Inc., as guarantor, and the lenders party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Company’s Current Report
on Form 8-K filed on February 22, 2016).
Amendment and Restatement Agreement in respect of the Amended and Restated Revolving Loan Facility Credit Agreement dated as of November 14, 2014, as amended
and restated as of February 19, 2016 among Central European Media Enterprises Ltd., as borrower, Time Warner Inc. as administrative agent, and the lenders party
thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 22, 2016).
Amended and Restated Reimbursement Agreement dated as of November 14, 2014 as amended and restated as of February 19, 2016 among Central European Media
Enterprises Ltd., CME Media Enterprises B.V., and Time Warner Inc., as credit guarantor (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to the Company’s Current Report on
Form 8-K filed on February 22, 2016).
Pledge Agreement on Shares in Central European Media Enterprises N.V. dated February 19, 2016 among Central European Media Enterprises Ltd., as pledgor, Time
Warner Inc., as pledgee, and Central European Media Enterprises N.V. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on
February 22, 2016).
Deed of Pledge of Shares (CME Media Enterprises B.V.) dated February 19, 2016 among Central European Media Enterprises N.V., as pledgor, Time Warner Inc. as
pledgee, and CME Media Enterprises B.V. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.11 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 22, 2016).
Deed of Amendment dated February 19, 2016 to the Intercreditor Agreement dated July 21, 2006, as amended and restated, among Central European Media Enterprises
Ltd., Central European Media Enterprises N.V., CME Media Enterprises B.V., and the other parties thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12 to the Company’s
Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 22, 2016).
Intercreditor Agreement dated July 21, 2006, as amended and restated, among Central European Media Enterprises Ltd., Central European Media Enterprises N.V., CME
Media Enterprises B.V., and the other parties thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.13 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 22,
2016).
Amendment dated March 2, 2017, to Amended and Restated Reimbursement Agreement dated as of November 14, 2014 as amended and restated as of February 19, 2016
among Central European Media Enterprises Ltd., CME Media Enterprises B.V., and Time Warner Inc., as credit guarantor (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to
the Company's Current Report in Form 8-K filed on March 6, 2017).
80
Index
Exhibit Number
Description
10.40*
10.41*
10.42*
10.43*
10.44*
10.45*
10.46
10.47*+
10.48*+
10.49*+
10.50*+
10.51*+
10.52*+
21.01
23.01
23.02
24.01
Framework Agreement dated July 9, 2017 between CME Media Enterprises B.V. and Slovenia Broadband S.à r.l. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the
Company's Current Report in Form 8-K filed on July 10, 2017).
Consent, Waiver and Third Amendment as of June 22, 2017 to the Credit Agreement dated as of November 14, 2014, as amended, among Central European Media
Enterprises Ltd., as borrower, BNP Paribas, as administrative agent, Time Warner Inc., as guarantor, and the lenders party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.01 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2017).
Consent, Waiver and Second Amendment as of June 22, 2017 to the Credit Agreement dated as of September 30, 2015, as amended, among Central European Media
Enterprises Ltd., as borrower, BNP Paribas, as administrative agent, Time Warner Inc., as guarantor, and the lenders party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.02 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2017).
Consent, Waiver and First Amendment as of June 22, 2017 to the Credit Agreement dated as of February 19, 2016 among CME Media Enterprises B.V., as borrower,
Central European Media Enterprises Ltd., as guarantor, BNP Paribas, as administrative agent, Time Warner Inc., as guarantor, and the lenders party thereto (incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 10.03 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2017).
Second Amendment dated June 22, 2017, to the Amended and Restated Reimbursement Agreement dated as of November 14, 2014 as amended and restated as of
February 19, 2016, as amended, among Central European Media Enterprises Ltd., CME Media Enterprises B.V., and Time Warner Inc., as credit guarantor (incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 10.04 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2017).
First Amendment dated June 22, 2017, to the Amended and Restated Revolving Loan Facility Credit Agreement dated as of May 2, 2014 as amended and restated as of
November 14, 2014, and as further amended and restated as of February 19, 2016, among Central European Media Enterprises Ltd., as borrower, Time Warner Inc. as
administrative agent, and the lenders party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.05 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period
ended June 30, 2017).
Fourth Amendment as of February 5, 2018 to the Credit Agreement dated as of November 14, 2014, as amended, among Central European Media Enterprises Ltd., as
borrower, BNP Paribas, as administrative agent, Time Warner Inc., as guarantor, and the lenders party thereto.
Amended and Restated Contract of Employment between CME Media Services Limited and Michael Del Nin, dated December 21, 2017 (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report in Form 8-K filed on December 22, 2017).
Amended and Restated Contract of Employment between CME Media Services Limited and Christoph Mainusch, dated December 21, 2017 (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Current Report in Form 8-K filed on December 22, 2017).
Amended and Restated Contract of Employment between CME Media Services Limited and Daniel Penn, dated December 21, 2017 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.3 to the Company's Current Report in Form 8-K filed on December 22, 2017).
Amended and Restated Contract of Employment between CME Media Services Limited and David Sturgeon, dated December 21, 2017 (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.4 to the Company's Current Report in Form 8-K filed on December 22, 2017).
Amended and Restated Contract of Employment between CME Media Services Limited and Adrian Sarbu, dated April 4, 2013 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.01 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2013).
Separation Agreement between CME Media Services Limited and Adrian Sarbu, dated August 21, 2013 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's
Current Report in Form 8-K filed on August 21, 2013).
List of subsidiaries.
Consent of Ernst & Young LLP.
Consent of Deloitte LLP.
Power of Attorney, dated as of February 8, 2018.
31.01
Certification of co-Principal Executive Officer pursuant to Exchange Act Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of
2002.
31.02
Certification of co-Principal Executive Officer pursuant to Exchange Act Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of
2002.
31.03
Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Exchange Act Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of
2002.
81
Index
Exhibit Number
Description
32.01
Certifications of co-Principal Executive Officers and Principal Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-
Oxley Act of 2002 (furnished only).
101.INS
XBRL Instance Document
101.SCH
XBRL Taxonomy Schema Document
101.CAL
XBRL Taxonomy Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEF
XBRL Taxonomy Definition Linkbase Document
101.LAB
XBRL Taxonomy Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE
XBRL Taxonomy Presentation Linkbase Document
* Previously filed exhibits.
+ Exhibit is a management contract or compensatory plan.
b) Exhibits: See (a)(3) above for a listing of the exhibits included as part of this report.
c) Report of Independent Registered Public Accountants on Schedule II - Schedule of Valuation Allowances. (See page S-1 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K).
82
Index
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto
duly authorized.
Date:
February 8, 2018
Central European Media Enterprises Ltd.
/s/ David Sturgeon
David Sturgeon
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates
indicated.
Signature
*
John K. Billock
/s/ Michael Del Nin
Michael Del Nin
/s/ Christoph Mainusch
Christoph Mainusch
/s/ David Sturgeon
David Sturgeon
*
Paul T. Cappuccio
*
Iris Knobloch
*
Alfred W. Langer
*
Bruce Maggin
*
Parm Sandhu
Title
Date
Chairman of the Board of Directors
February 8, 2018
co-Chief Executive Officer
February 8, 2018
(co-Principal Executive Officer)
co-Chief Executive Officer
February 8, 2018
(co-Principal Executive Officer)
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer and
Principal Accounting Officer)
February 8, 2018
Director
February 8, 2018
Director
February 8, 2018
Director
February 8, 2018
Director
February 8, 2018
Director
February 8, 2018
83
Index
Signature
*
Doug Shapiro
*
Kelli Turner
*
Gerhard Zeiler
Title
Date
Director
February 8, 2018
Director
February 8, 2018
Director
February 8, 2018
* By:
/s/ David Sturgeon
David Sturgeon
Attorney-in-fact **
** By authority of the power of attorney filed herewith
84
Index
INDEX TO SCHEDULES
Schedule II
Schedule of Valuation Allowances
(US$ 000's)
BALANCE December 31, 2014
Charged to costs and expenses
Deductions (1)
Foreign exchange
BALANCE December 31, 2015
Charged to costs and expenses
Deductions (1)
Foreign exchange
BALANCE December 31, 2016
Charged to costs and expenses
Deductions (1)
Foreign exchange
BALANCE December 31, 2017
Bad debt and credit note
provision
Deferred tax allowance
8,586 $
2,260
(2,037)
(979)
7,830
3,662
(2,615)
(291)
8,586
1,910
(1,689)
1,095
9,902 $
119,088
(2,496)
—
(10,983)
105,609
5,249
250
(4,507)
106,601
5,384
549
15,260
127,794
$
$
(1) Charged to other accounts for the bad debt and credit note provision consist primarily of accounts receivable written off.
S-1
EXECUTION VERSION
Exhibit 10.46
FOURTH AMENDMENT, dated as of February 5, 2018 (this “ Amendment ”), to the CREDIT
AGREEMENT, dated as of November 14, 2014, as amended by the First Amendment, dated as of March 9, 2015,
the Second Amendment, dated as of February 19, 2016, and the Consent, Waiver, and Third Amendment, dated as of
June 22, 2017 (as further amended, supplemented or otherwise modified prior to the date hereof, the “ Existing
Credit Agreement ”), among CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD., an exempted limited
company incorporated under the laws of Bermuda (“ Borrower ”), TIME WARNER INC., a Delaware corporation (“
Guarantor ”), the several banks and other financial institutions from time to time party thereto (the “ Lenders ”) and
BNP PARIBAS, as administrative agent (the “ Administrative Agent ”).
WHEREAS, the Lenders under the Existing Credit Agreement (for purposes of this Amendment, herein called the “ Lenders ”) have agreed to extend credit to Borrower
under the Existing Credit Agreement in the form of outstanding Loans in an original aggregate principal amount of €250,800,000 (€50,000,000 of which was prepaid by Borrower on August 1,
2017, resulting in an outstanding aggregate principal amount of €200,800,000 as of the date hereof) the terms and subject to the conditions set forth therein;
WHEREAS, Guarantor and the Subsidiary Guarantors have entered into the Guarantee in connection with the Existing Credit Agreement;
forth herein;
WHEREAS, Borrower has requested that the Lenders (a) extend the maturity of the Loans and (b) effect certain other amendments to the Existing Credit Agreement as set
through the extended Maturity Date (as defined below);
WHEREAS, the Guarantor and the Subsidiary Guarantors have agreed to continue to guaranty the obligations entered in connection with the Existing Credit Agreement
hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto hereby agree as follows:
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual agreements herein contained and other good and valuable consideration, the sufficiency and receipt of which are
meanings assigned to them in the Existing Credit Agreement.
SECTION 1.
Defined Terms. Capitalized terms used but not otherwise defined herein (including in the preamble and the recitals hereto) have the
hereby amended as follows (the Existing Credit Agreement, as so amended, being referred to herein as the “ Credit Agreement ”):
SECTION 2. Amendment of Existing Credit Agreement. Effective as of the Fourth Amendment Effective Date (as defined below), the Existing Credit Agreement is
(a) Section 1.01 of the Existing Credit Agreement is hereby amended by:
(i) inserting the following new defined terms in appropriate alphabetical order:
“ Fourth Amendment ” means the Fourth Amendment, dated as of February 5, 2018, to this Agreement among Borrower, Guarantor, the Lenders and the Administrative
Agent.
“ Fourth Amendment Effective Date ” has the meaning assigned to such term in the Fourth Amendment.
(ii) amending and restating the following definition in its entirety to read as follows:
“ Maturity Date ” means May 1, 2019.
SECTION 3. Representations and Warranties. (a) Each of Borrower and Guarantor, as applicable, hereby represents and warrants as to itself only (and not as to the
other) that (i) this Amendment is within such Person’s corporate powers and has been duly authorized by all necessary corporate and, if required, stockholder action of such Person, (ii) this
Amendment has been duly executed and delivered by such Person, (iii) this Amendment constitutes a legal, valid and binding obligation of such Person, enforceable in accordance with its
terms, subject to applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium or other laws affecting creditors’ rights generally and subject to general principles of equity, regardless of
whether considered in a proceeding in equity or at law, (iv) as of the date hereof, no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing (provided that the Guarantor is only making this
representation on behalf of itself and its Restricted Subsidiaries and the Defaults or Events of Default attributable to itself and its Restricted Subsidiaries and not with respect to any Defaults or
Events of Default attributable to Borrower and its Subsidiaries, and Borrower is only making this representation on behalf of itself and its Subsidiaries and the Defaults or Events of Default
attributable to itself and its Subsidiaries and not with respect to any Defaults or Events of Default attributable to the Guarantor and its Restricted Subsidiaries) and (v) the representations and
warranties of such Person set forth in Article III of the Existing Credit Agreement (including, for the avoidance of doubt, Section 3.04(c), but the reference to December 31, 2014 therein shall be
deemed to be December 31, 2016) and in the other Credit Documents are true and correct in all material respects (unless any such representation of warranty is already qualified by materiality,
in which case, such representation or warranty is true and correct in all respects) on and as of the date hereof, with the same effect as though made on and as of the date hereof, except to the
extent such representations and warranties expressly relate to an earlier date, in which case such representations and warranties were true and correct in all material respects (unless any such
representation of warranty is already qualified by materiality, in which case, such representation or warranty is true and correct in all respects)
as of such earlier date. Borrower represents and warrants that since December 31, 2016, there has been no material adverse change in the business, assets, operations or financial condition of
Borrower and its consolidated subsidiaries, taken as a whole.
SECTION 4. Effectiveness. This Amendment shall become effective as of the first date (the “ Fourth Amendment Effective Date ”) on which:
Guarantor and all the Lenders;
(a) the Administrative Agent (or its counsel) shall have received duly executed counterparts hereof that, when taken together, bear the authorized signatures of Borrower,
party thereto;
(b) the Administrative Agent shall have received an Acknowledgment and Consent, substantially in the form of Annex II hereto, duly executed and delivered by each
counsel for Borrower;
(c) the Administrative Agent shall have received favorable written opinions of (i) DLA Piper UK LLP, counsel for Borrower and (ii) Conyers Dill & Pearman, Bermuda
(d) the Administrative Agent shall have received a certificate from each of Borrower and Guarantor, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative
Agent, dated the Fourth Amendment Effective Date and signed by a Responsible Officer of Borrower and Guarantor, as applicable, confirming that on and as of the Fourth Amendment
Effective Date (i) the representations and warranties applicable to such Person set forth in the Credit Documents are true and correct in all material respects (except for representations and
warranties expressly stated to relate to a specific earlier date, in which case such representations and warranties are true and correct in all material respects as of such earlier date) and (ii) no
Default or Event of Default has occurred or is continuing; and
(e) the Administrative Agent shall have received, for the account of each Lender, a consent fee as set forth on Annex I hereto.
It is understood and agreed that the conditions specified in clauses (a) through (e) in this Section 4 shall be satisfied on the date hereof. The Administrative Agent shall notify
Borrower, Guarantor, CME Media Enterprises B.V. (“ CME BV ”) and the Lenders of the Fourth Amendment Effective Date, and such notice shall be conclusive and binding.
Without limiting the generality of the provisions of Article VIII of the Existing Credit Agreement, for purposes of determining compliance with the conditions specified in this
Section 4, each Lender shall be deemed to have accepted, and to be satisfied with, each document or other matter required under this Section 4 unless the Administrative Agent shall have
received notice from such Lender prior to the date hereof specifying its objections thereto.
SECTION 5. Costs and Expenses. Borrower shall pay all reasonable out-of-pocket costs and expenses incurred by the Administrative Agent in connection with this
Amendment.
SECTION 6. Effect of this Amendment.
(a) Except as expressly set forth herein, this Amendment shall not by implication or otherwise limit, impair, constitute a waiver of or otherwise affect the rights and
remedies of the Lenders or the Administrative Agent under the Existing Credit Agreement or any other Credit Document, and shall not alter, modify, amend or in any way affect any of the
terms, conditions, obligations, covenants or agreements contained in the Existing Credit Agreement or any other Credit Document, all of which are ratified and affirmed in all respects and shall
continue in full force and effect. Nothing herein shall be deemed to entitle any Credit Party to a consent to, or a waiver, amendment, modification or other change of, any of the terms,
conditions, obligations, covenants or agreements contained in the Existing Credit Agreement or any other Credit Document in similar or different circumstances.
shall remain in full force and effect, in accordance with applicable law, on a continuous basis after giving effect to this Amendment.
(b) Each Credit Party agrees that all of its obligations, liabilities and indebtedness under each Credit Document, including guarantee obligations under the Guarantee,
(c) On and after the Fourth Amendment Effective Date, each reference in the Existing Credit Agreement to “this Agreement”, “herein”, “hereunder”, “hereto”, “hereof”
and words of similar import shall, unless the context otherwise requires, refer to the Existing Credit Agreement as amended hereby, and each reference to the Credit Agreement in any other
Credit Document shall be deemed to be a reference to the Existing Credit Agreement as amended hereby.
SECTION 7. Interpretation. This Amendment shall constitute a Credit Document for the purposes of the Credit Agreement and the other Credit Documents.
SECTION 8. Governing Law; Jurisdiction; Consent to Service of Process.
(a) This Amendment shall be construed in accordance with and governed by the law of the State of New York.
(b) Each party to this Amendment hereby irrevocably and unconditionally submits, for itself and its property, to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Supreme Court of the
State of New York sitting in New York County and of the United States District Court of the Southern District of New York, and any appellate court from any thereof, in any action or
proceeding arising out of or relating to the Credit Documents, or for recognition or enforcement of any judgment, and each of the parties hereto hereby irrevocably and unconditionally agrees
that all claims in respect of any such action or proceeding shall be heard and determined in such New York State court or, to the extent permitted by law, in such Federal court. Each of the
parties hereto agrees that a final judgment in any such action or proceeding shall be conclusive and may be enforced in other jurisdictions by suit on the judgment or in any other manner
provided by law.
now or hereafter have to the laying of venue of any suit, action or proceeding arising out of or relating to this Amendment in
(c) Each party to this Amendment hereby irrevocably and unconditionally waives, to the fullest extent it may legally and effectively do so, any objection which it may
2
any court referred to in paragraph (b) of this Section 8. Each of the parties hereto hereby irrevocably waives, to the fullest extent permitted by law, the defense of an inconvenient forum to the
maintenance of such action or proceeding in any such court.
Nothing in this Amendment will affect the right of any party to this Amendment to serve process in any other manner permitted by law.
(d) Each party to this Amendment irrevocably consents to service of process in the manner provided for notices in Section 9.01 of the Existing Credit Agreement.
though set forth herein, mutatis mutandis .
SECTION 9. Miscellaneous. Sections 9.01, 9.04(a), 9.05, 9.06, 9.07, 9.10, 9.11 and 9.13 of the Existing Credit Agreement shall be applicable to this Amendment as
[Signature page follows]
3
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Amendment to be duly executed by their respective authorized officers as of the date first above written.
CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD., as Borrower
By:
/s/ David Sturgeon
Name: David Sturgeon
Title: Chief Financial Officer
[Signature Page to Fourth Amendment]
TIME WARNER INC., as Guarantor
By:
/s/ Edward B. Ruggiero
Name: Edward B. Ruggiero
Title: Senior Vice President & Treasurer
[Signature Page to Fourth Amendment]
BNP PARIBAS, as Administrative Agent and as Lender
By:
By:
/s/ Nicole Rodriguez
Name: Nicole Rodriguez
Title: Director
/s/ Karim Remtoula
Name: Karim Remtoula
Title: Vice President
[Signature Page to Fourth Amendment]
CRÉDIT AGRICOLE CORPORATE AND INVESTMENT BANK, as Lender
By:
/s/ Bruno Pezy
Name: Bruno Pezy
Title: MD
By:
/s/ Xavier de Neuville
Name: Xavier de Neuville
Title: Director
[Signature Page to Fourth Amendment]
MIZUHO BANK, LTD, as Lender
By:
/s/ Daniel Guevara
Name: Daniel Guevara
Title: Authorized Signatory
[Signature Page to Fourth Amendment]
SOCIÉTÉ GENERALE, as Lender
By:
/s/ John Hogan
Name: John Hogan
Title: Director
[Signature Page to Fourth Amendment]
SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION, as Lender
By:
/s/ Katsuyuki Kubo
Katsuyuki Kubo
Managing Director
[Signature Page to Fourth Amendment]
THE BANK OF TOKYO-MITSUBISHI UFJ, LTD., as Lender
By:
/s/ Matthew Antioco
Name: Matthew Antioco
Title: Director
[Signature Page to Fourth Amendment]
ANNEX II TO
FOURTH AMENDMENT
ACKNOWLEDGMENT AND CONSENT
Reference is made to the FOURTH AMENDMENT, dated as of February 5, 2018 (“ Fourth Amendment ”), to the CREDIT AGREEMENT, dated as of November 14,
2014, as amended by the First Amendment, dated as of March 9, 2015, the Second Amendment, dated as of February 19, 2016, and the Consent, Waiver, and Third Amendment, dated as of
June 22, 2017 (as further amended by the Fourth Amendment, the “ Credit Agreement ”), among CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD., an exempted limited company
incorporated under the laws of Bermuda, TIME WARNER INC. a Delaware corporation, the several banks and other financial institutions from time to time party thereto, and BNP PARIBAS,
as administrative agent. Unless otherwise defined herein, capitalized terms used herein and defined in the Credit Agreement are used herein as therein defined.
Each of the undersigned parties to the Guarantee hereby (a) consents to the transactions contemplated by the Fourth Amendment and (b) acknowledges and agrees that the
guarantees made by such party contained in the Guarantee are, and shall remain, in full force and effect, in accordance with applicable law, on a continuous basis after giving effect to the Fourth
Amendment.
Guarantee are, and shall remain, in full force and effect, in accordance with applicable law, on a continuous basis after giving effect to the Fourth Amendment.
CME BV hereby (a) consents to the transactions contemplated by the Fourth Amendment and (b) acknowledges and agrees that the guarantees contained in the CME BV
A-II-1
authorized officers as of the date first written above.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Acknowledgment and Consent to be duly executed and delivered by their respective proper and duly
TIME WARNER INC.,
as Guarantor
By:
Name:
Title:
HISTORIC TW INC., as Subsidiary Guarantor
By:
Name:
Title:
TURNER BROADCASTING SYSTEM, INC., as Subsidiary Guarantor
By:
Name:
Title:
HOME BOX OFFICE INC., as Subsidiary Guarantor
By:
Name:
Title:
CME MEDIA ENTERPRISES B.V., as CME Subsidiary Guarantor
Name: Alphons van Spaendonck
Title: Managing Director
By:
By:
Name: Pan-Invest B.V., represented by .........
Title: Managing Director
Our principal subsidiaries as at February 8, 2018 were:
Company Name
CME Bulgaria B.V.
BTV Media Group EAD
Radiocompany C.J. OOD
Nova TV d.d.
TV NOVA s.r.o.
Pro TV S.R.L.
CME Slovak Holdings B.V.
MARKÍZA-SLOVAKIA, spol. s r.o.
PRO PLUS d.o.o.
POP TV d.o.o.
Kanal A d.o.o.
Pro Digital S.R.L.
Central European Media Enterprises N.V.
CME Media Enterprises B.V.
CME Programming B.V.
CME Investments B.V.
CME Media Services Limited
CME Services s.r.o.
CME Media Enterprises Limited
Exhibit 21.01
Jurisdiction of Organization
Netherlands
Bulgaria
Bulgaria
Croatia
Czech Republic
Romania
Netherlands
Slovak Republic
Slovenia
Slovenia
Slovenia
Moldova
Curacao
Netherlands
Netherlands
Netherlands
United Kingdom
Czech Republic
Bermuda
Voting Interest
94%
94%
69.56%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statement Nos. 333-214381 and 333-194209 of Central European Media Enterprises Ltd. on Form S-3 and Registration Statement
Nos. 333-204667, 333-184038, 333-160444, 333-130405, 333-110959 and 333-60295 on Form S-8 of our reports dated February 8, 2018 , with respect to the consolidated financial statements
and schedule of Central European Media Enterprises Ltd. and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting of Central European Media Enterprises Ltd. included in this Annual
Report (Form 10-K) of Central European Media Enterprises Ltd. for the year ended December 31, 2017 .
Exhibit 23.01
ERNST & YOUNG LLP
London, United Kingdom
February 8, 2018
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statement Nos. 333-214381 and 333-194209 on Form S-3 and Registration Statement Nos. 333-204667, 333-184038, 333-160444,
333-130405, 333-110959 and 333-60295 on Form S-8 of our report dated February 22, 2016, relating to the 2015 consolidated financial statements (before the effects of the retrospective
adjustments for discontinued operations discussed in Note 3a to the consolidated financial statements) (not presented herein) and financial statement schedule (as it relates to 2015) of Central
European Media Enterprises Ltd. and subsidiaries, appearing in this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Central European Media Enterprises Ltd. and subsidiaries for the year ended December 31,
2017.
Exhibit 23.02
DELOITTE LLP
London, United Kingdom
February 8, 2018
Each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Michael Del Nin, Christoph Mainusch and David Sturgeon, and each of them, with full power to act without the other, such
person's true and lawful attorney-in-fact, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign the Annual Report on Form
10-K for the fiscal year 2017 of Central European Media Enterprises Ltd., a Bermuda company limited by shares, and any and all amendments to such Annual Report on Form 10-K and other
documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and
every act and thing necessary or desirable to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, thereby ratifying and confirming all that
said attorneys-in-fact, or any of them, or their or his substitute or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Signatures appear on following page
Exhibit 24.01
February 8, 2018
/s/ John K. Billock /s/ Paul Cappuccio
John K. Billock Paul Cappuccio
/s/ Iris Knobloch /s/ Alfred Langer
Iris Knobloch Alfred Langer
/s/ Bruce Maggin /s/ Parm Sandhu
Bruce Maggin Parm Sandhu
/s/ Doug Shapiro /s/ Kelli Turner
Doug Shapiro Kelli Turner
/s/ Gerhard Zeiler
Gerhard Zeiler
Exhibit 31.01
I, Michael Del Nin, certify that:
CERTIFICATION OF CO-PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER
1.
2.
3.
4.
I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Central European Media Enterprises Ltd.;
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the
circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations
and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-
15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating
to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance
regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and
procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
(d) Disclosed in this report any changes in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth
fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report), that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and
5.
The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit
committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the
registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.
/s/ Michael Del Nin
Michael Del Nin
co-Chief Executive Officer
(co-Principal Executive Officer)
February 8, 2018
Exhibit 31.02
I, Christoph Mainusch, certify that:
CERTIFICATION OF CO-PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER
1.
2.
3.
4.
I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Central European Media Enterprises Ltd.;
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the
circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations
and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-
15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating
to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance
regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and
procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
(d) Disclosed in this report any changes in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth
fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report), that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and
5.
The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit
committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the
registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.
/s/ Christoph Mainusch
Christoph Mainusch
co-Chief Executive Officer
(co-Principal Executive Officer)
February 8, 2018
Exhibit 31.03
I, David Sturgeon, certify that:
CERTIFICATION OF PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL OFFICER
1.
2.
3.
4.
I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Central European Media Enterprises Ltd.;
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the
circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations
and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-
15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating
to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance
regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and
procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
(d) Disclosed in this report any changes in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth
fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report), that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and
5.
The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit
committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the
registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.
/s/ David Sturgeon
David Sturgeon
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)
February 8, 2018
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
In connection with the Annual Report of Central European Media Enterprises Ltd. (the “Company”) on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017 , as filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), we, Michael Del Nin and Christoph Mainusch, co-Chief Executive Officers of the Company, and David Sturgeon, Chief Financial
Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:
1
2
the Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and result of operations of the Company as of the dates and for the periods
explained in the Report.
Exhibit 32.01
/s/ Michael Del Nin
Michael Del Nin
co-Chief Executive Officer
(co-Principal Executive Officer)
February 8, 2018
/s/ Christoph Mainusch
Christoph Mainusch
co-Chief Executive Officer
(co-Principal Executive Officer)
February 8, 2018
/s/ David Sturgeon
David Sturgeon
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)
February 8, 2018